Vermont Dairy Farm Emergency Biosecurity Plans & Maps Delivered

An overhead view map of a dairy farm with barns and other structures. Lines on the map show where animals need to be protected from a foreign animal disease introduction.
A Vermont dairy farm mapped for emergency biosecurity planning.

During the summer of 2023, UVM Animal and Veterinary Sciences Research Professor Julie Smith, along with two veterinary student interns, embarked on a project that took them to eight dairy farms across Vermont. Their goal was to help farmers prepare emergency biosecurity plans and maps, in order to respond to a possible foreign animal disease outbreak such as foot-and-mouth disease. Continue reading “Vermont Dairy Farm Emergency Biosecurity Plans & Maps Delivered”

CREAM Students Provide Hands-on Learning at 4-H Bovine Bonanza

A group of 4-H youth participants stand in front of the UVM Miller Farm barn.
Students gather for the 4-H Bovine Bonanza at the UVM Miller Farm. Photo credit: Brady Miller.

Story by Brady Miller, UVM Food Systems major and CREAM student.

The 4-H clover stands for head, heart, hands, and health. 4-H is an Extension program that educates children of all backgrounds through hands-on experiences. It is an astounding program that the members of UVM CREAM are excited to have various opportunities to work with. Continue reading “CREAM Students Provide Hands-on Learning at 4-H Bovine Bonanza”

Moo-ving Toward Mental Well-Being: The Therapeutic Power of Cows

Several dairy cows standing in a barn with a view of their udders and back ends.
Photo credit: Brady Miller

This article was written by CREAM Student Brady Miller.

On Spear Street, just down the road from UVM’s athletic campus, is the Paul R. Miller Research and Educational Center. The Miller Barn is home to the Cooperative for Real Education in Agricultural Management, or CREAM program. This student-led dairy herd reaches beyond animal science and dairy management, placing emphasis on community development and gratitude practices. Continue reading “Moo-ving Toward Mental Well-Being: The Therapeutic Power of Cows”

UVM Extension Hosts October Bedded Pack Barn Workshops

Black and white Holstein cows laying down in a bedded pack floor in a hoop house barn.
Photo credit: Whitney Hull

UVM Extension and guest speaker Dr. Marcia Endres will present a free workshop on bedded pack barns for dairy and livestock producers on two dates in October. Dr. Endres, a University of Minnesota animal sciences professor, will discuss the benefits, challenges, and management best practices to consider when planning a bedded pack barn for milkers, dry cows and heifers. Continue reading “UVM Extension Hosts October Bedded Pack Barn Workshops”