Ag Equipment & TMR Info Center

Boost milk components for a better bottom line

2012-01-25T14:26:00.002-06:00

Photo by Jamiesrabbits on www.flickr.com.

According to current per-capita intakes, dairy products provide 18% of the daily protein requirements in the U.S. diet and are a major source of nine other essential vitamins and minerals. As obesity is of great concern in the United States, it is important to note that dairy products only contribute to 10% of the daily caloric intake.

Due to consumer demand, milk fat and milk protein use continue to rise. From 2000-2009, there was an increase in utilization of milk fat by 15% and milk protein by 18%. For producers, this trend indicates that milk component values are becoming more and more significant for profitability.

Last October, the American Dairy Science Association (ADSA) hosted their 22nd Discover Conference, entitled "Milk Components: Opportunities for Maximizing Farm Gate Returns and Meeting Manufacturing Needs." Among the attendees was Tony Hall, Dairy Technical Services Manager for Lallemand Animal Nutrition.

In Progressive Dairyman's January 1st issue, Hall graciously provided key points from the conference for those of us that could not attend. He identified the following as the three "clear take-home messages:"

There is no guarantee of high milk prices and likely less regulation. Do not become a milk price victim in the future - make time for a milk price risk management plan with your team and implement it!
For those on milk component-based contracts, make sure you are doing all you can to leverage the best milk protein yield from your rations and feed management. At the same time, all farms - whether on fluid or component pricing - should look over their current feed practices to save on ration-N (CP*) and get MUNs (milk urea nitrogen) down.
*crude protein
Where milk content is paid for, make sure the team is doing all that it can to minimize the conditions for t10;c12-CLA* production and achieving the best milk fat content for the ration fed.
*potent milk fat inhibitor trans-10, cis 12 conjugated linoleic acid

Source: "Discovering new ways to boost milk components" article by Tony Hall. Progressive Dairyman.
January 1, 2012, Issue 1.

Count on Patz Vertical Mixers to Boost Your Milk Components!

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Experience time, labor, fuel, & feed savings with a Patz 1200 Series Vertical Mixer!

2012-01-18T15:17:00.000-06:00

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Click "play" on the YouTube video below to see what customers are saying

about their Patz 1200 Series Vertical Mixers!

For further details on the benefits of feeding with a Patz 1200 Series Vertical Mixer, visit www.patzcorp.com.

Vertical Mixer Maintenance Tips

2012-01-05T15:43:00.000-06:00

At the University of Wisconsin's Arlington Dairy Days, Matthew Digman of the U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center noted that regular mixer maintenance can help prevent breakdowns and potential downtime.

As featured in the January 10th issue of Hoard's Dairyman, here are several of Digman's mixer maintenance tips:

Grease. Regular grease points include universal joints, drive-line bearings, door guides, and linkages. Follow each grease line to its delivery point.
Chains. Clean off debris. Check sprockets for excessive wear or evidence that the chain isn't riding properly. Wear could indicate a misaligned sprocket.
Oil. For automatic oilers, make sure the reservoir is adequately filled and the oil dipper is positioned over the chain. If the oil bath level is too high, there may be contamination.
Planetary gearbox. Check the oil level, and follow guidelines for change intervals.
Augers, paddles, and hoppers. Inspect for excessive wear.
Electrical system. Clear wires of buildup, check for damage, and tie up wires. Look for corrosion in the junction box.
Load cells. Spherical joints on the check arm system should be tightly attached, yet the arm should be free to move in the joint.

Source: "Winter's the time for mixer maintenance" article. Hoard's Dairyman, January 10, 2012 issue.

Visit www.patzcorp.com to view the full Patz Vertical Mixer Series!

Recent studies deflate impact of milk price on profitability

2011-12-28T15:54:00.000-06:00

"It's attention to detail, it's excellent cow comfort, it's good animal husbandry, it's quality heifer programs, it's good financial management. There's no magic solution."
-Mike Hosterman on profitability in the dairy industry

Instead of milk prices, Mike Hosterman, AgChoice Farm Credit agricultural business consultant, says that producers should focus on their net margin per hundredweight of milk produced to determine profitability. Using Dairy Profit Analyzer data, Hosterman found that milk price was not a significant factor in profitability among farms. Instead, lower cost of production and higher milk production were what set the top 10% of farms apart from the rest.

According to Hosterman, the top farms strike a healthy balance in these 5 areas:

Volume.
Efficiency.
Capacity.
Industry skills (i.e. ability to manage internal growth).
Cost of production and cost control.

A recent study by ag economists at Kansas State University confirmed that profitability is not strongly correlated with milk price over time. The results of the study indicate that the most profitable producers have higher milk production/cow and have similar (or slightly lower) overall costs/cow. Top farms actually had higher feed costs than less profitable farms, but they also had a lower overall cost. One of the economists, Kevin Dhuyvetter, identifies a producer's individual management skills as vital to the survival of a business.

Click on the source link below to learn more about these studies!

Source: "Overcome profit obstacles" by Shannon Linderoth. Dairy Herd Management's website: www.dairyherd.com. Retrieved December 28, 2011.

Beran's Dairy Expands Herd...Shortens Chore Time!

2011-12-21T14:38:00.000-06:00

Vicky & Al Beran of Beran's Dairy
Birnamwood, WI

Family-owned for 50 years and counting, Beran's Dairy in Birnamwood, WI is home to 100 milking cows and 100 youngstock. Second generation-owner Al Beran and his wife Vicky purchased the dairy in 1994 and have been running it ever since.

In 2010, they installed a manure pit and built a new freestall barn to accommodate their growing herd. To maintain the beautiful new barn, the Berans identified the need for an effective, efficient manure-handling system. They knew just where to go for the solution: their local
Patz Dealer, Rew Motors, Inc. of Birnamwood, WI.

The Berans invested in two Patz Model 4444 Vertical Pit Pumps to keep their herd clean and comfortable. Al is pleased to report that his new pumps are saving him time and labor. He is now able to agitate and pump the manure while he loads the mixer from the silos, allowing him to do two chores at once!

After scraping with a skid steer for a few weeks in the new facility, Al & Vicky decided to invest in a Patz Model 320 Alley Scraper ASAP! Since then, Al has never looked back.

Cows stay clean and comfortable with
Patz Alley Scrapers & Pumps.

He said, "The chore of manure handling is automatic. The scrapers keep the cows cleaner and should allow the barn to last longer. The alley scrapers are cheap hired help -- they are reliable and are never late for work!" This automation has enabled Al and Vicky to milk more cows without hiring labor outside of the family.

Milk production and quality clearly play a large role in an operation's profitability. Today, Beran's Dairy's herd averages 75 lbs/cow on twice-a-day milking. According to Al, "Herd health is better because of better cow comfort in the new barn. Our cows are cleaner because of the alley scraper system which affects milk quality."

The Berans were planning on a 10-year payback period but report that they are currently ahead of schedule.

Read the rest of this Success Story here!

Our full line of manure handling equipment includes Manure Pumps, Alley Scrapers,
Shuttle Box Scrapers, Barn Cleaners, Manure Stackers, & Agitators!

Visit www.patzcorp.com to discover the manure handling solution for your operation!

Feeding for minimized sorting

2011-12-14T15:21:00.004-06:00

Patz Vertical Mixers deliver a thorough, consistent TMR
that cows can't get enough of! Patz Mixer owners
report reduced sorting and increased intakes!

Every cow in a pen should receive the same, high-quality TMR whenever she approaches the feedbunk. However, this is not always the reality. Without careful bunk management, the last cows to eat are left with a sorted ration consisting of hay stems, corn silage stalks and cobs. Consuming these "leftovers" can result in reduced DMI, intake variation, and slug feeding. When a cow's core nutritional requirements are not met, milk production suffers.

To minimize sorting, the TMR delivered must be consistently mixed, have the proper chop length of forages and the proper amount of ration moisture. Once a high-quality TMR is achieved, the next step is to make sure that every cow has the opportunity to eat it.

Pushing out the feedbunk on a consistent basis helps keep the TMR fresh throughout the day. Nutritionist Jess Argyle recommends that the fresh and close-up cow pens are pushed out every day before new feed is delivered. Cows are constantly moving in and out of these pens, making them more difficult to read. For the lactating cow pens, he recommends feeding to a tight bunk with 2-5% pushouts as-fed. This requires that feed be pushed out every 3-4 hours. In doing this, daily DMI intakes will be more consistent and reading the bunks will be easier. Plus, the pushouts can be fed to other groups such as far-off dry cows or pregnant heifers.

If feedbunks are not pushed out frequently, there can be a buildup of sorted and foreign materials. When fresh feed is placed on top, there will likely be a decrease in DMI and an increase in sorting of the fresh TMR. Another issue is that feed buildup will heat up, spoil, and sometimes mold. Pushouts are usually too poor in quality to feed to other groups so they must be discarded.

Put simply, the key to minimized sorting is to feed your herd a fresh, well-mixed, high-quality TMR. Your cows will thank you with better milk production and a better bottom line.

Source: "Manage feedbunk for consistency" article by Jess Argyle. Progressive Dairyman website: www.progressivedairy.com. Retrieved on December 14, 2011.

Intakes up 10-15% and components up 10 points!

2011-12-07T13:47:00.001-06:00

(L to R) Ken Wullms of Embro Farm Systems, Inc.
with Marilyn, Harry, & Ryan Dykxhoorn.

Harry and Marilyn Dykxhoorn, along with their son Ryan, operate their 160-cow dairy, known as Dykholm Farms Ltd., near Brownsville, Ontario.

In February of 2011, the Dykxhoorns consulted their local Patz Dealer, Embro Farm Systems, Inc. of Embro, ON, about investing in a new Patz Vertical Mixer. To fulfill their feed-handling needs, they purchased a 615 cu. ft. Patz 1200 Series Stationary Single Screw Vertical Mixer along with a Patz Model 3605 Belt Conveyor to move the TMR discharged by the mixer into a feed cart.

Since the installation, the Dykxhoorns are impressed with how quickly their new mixer blends a quality TMR using a variety of ingredients, including large 4'x6' hay bales. The ration delivered is a better quality, more palatable mix that cows love. In fact, intakes are up by 10-15%!

This Patz 1200 Series Vertical Mixer & Model 3605

Belt Conveyor keep the Dykholm herd fed on time!

Harry and Ryan currently mix two batches a day, divided into four daily feedings for high and low groups. They report time, labor, and energy savings with the ability to mix larger batches in less time. It only takes 10 minutes of run time with a diesel engine to mix a whole day's feedings.

Based on Canada's quota system, milk components have an even greater impact on a dairy's bottom line. Since they purchased their new mixer, Harry reports an impressive 10-point increase in component values!

As they experienced with their previous Patz equipment, the 1200 Series Vertical Mixer and Model 3605 Belt Conveyor are engineered for long life, low maintenance, and trouble-free operation. Harry said, "We like the durability of our Patz equipment. Life is good, and it makes the day seem brighter when nothing breaks."

*The Dykxhoorns were also featured in the November 2011 issue of the Patz LINK Newsletter!

Visit www.patzcorp.com to read more
Success Stories from satisfied Patz customers!

"Production went up by as much as 12 lbs/cow!"

2011-11-29T14:25:00.001-06:00

(L to R) Doug & Dillon Breyer with
Tim Rew of Rew Motors, Inc.

The Breyers are pleased with how quickly their new Patz Model 800 Single Screw Vertical Mixer (350 cu. ft.) blends all of their feed ingredients into a thorough, consistent TMR.

"The mixer has allowed us to control what the cows eat. They don't get to pick and choose anymore," Doug said. Minimized sorting and fewer refusals mean cows eat better and waste less feed.

Feeding a better ration with their Patz Vertical Mixer has made a significant impact on the herd's milk production.

Click here to read the rest of this Success Story!

**The Breyers were also featured in the November 2011 issue of the Patz LINK Newsletter. Read the November LINK and archived issues here!

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Find out what other customers are saying about their Patz Vertical Mixers...

Visit www.patzcorp.com and click on "Success Stories!"

Big Benefits Behind Precision Feeding

2011-11-23T13:45:00.000-06:00

(Part 2 of a 2-part series)

Last week, we discussed the "what, why, and how" behind precision feeding. Today, we'll be focusing on the benefits of precision feeding and how you can best achieve them.

In Part 1 of this series, we listed the four areas that Dr. Mike Hutjens identified as opportunities to "take control" of variation in a feeding program: variation in the field, nutrient variation, mixing variation, and rumen variation. Then we posed this question:

Which of these areas has the greatest opportunity to improve profits?

Answer: MIXING VARIATION!

This Patz Model 800 Vertical Mixer helps control
mixing variation with its reliable 3-point scale
system that accurately measures ingredients.

To control mixing variation, attention should be paid to these contributing factors:

Filling of mixer (avoid overfilling).
Feed addition sequence.
Pre-mixtures (no feed added at < 2 lbs./cow).
Mixing time.
Uniformity of feed along the feed bunk.

With precision feeding, diets are provided as formulated to improve nutrient consistency and reduce the impact of feedstuff variability. Plus, cows are given consistent access to feed.

What are the benefits of precision feeding?

Improved rumen health & fecal consistency.
Improved milk yield and components.
Reduced feed costs.
Control over the variability of nutrients excreted and impact on the environment.
Reduced labor and costs of sampling and analyzing forages.

Take-home message: Precision feeding can help increase your bottom line!

Source: "Precision Feeding" Hoard's Webinar presented by Dr. Mike Hutjens, University of Illinois, on October 10, 2011.

The What, Why, & How Behind Precision Feeding

2011-11-16T13:23:00.001-06:00

(Part 1 of a 2-part series)

You may have heard the term "precision feeding," but do you know exactly what it means and why it's important to a dairy's bottom line? Dr. Mike Hutjens, University of Illinois, tackled these questions and more in last month's Hoard's Webinar.

What is precision feeding?
Hutjens defines precision feeding as providing a consistent ration, consistent flow of nutrients through the rumen and digestive tract, and removing variation from the field to the bulk tank.

Why is precision feeding important?

The cost of a lack of precision can be substantial. Hutjens provided these figures:

Weigh backs of 4% or 2 lbs. DM (22¢/cow/day)
Shift in 5% DM corn silage at 15 lbs. DM (5¢/cow/day)
Shrink loss of 10% feed (55¢/cow/day)
Overfeeding 1 lb. of protein supplement (21¢/cow/day)

How can I achieve precision feeding?

Hutjens identified these four areas as opportunities to "take control" of variation in a feeding program:

Variation in the field - harvesting and chopping.
Nutrient variation - feed ingredient selection and deviations in forage nutrients.
Mixing variation - mixing time, overfilling, etc.
Rumen variation - shifts in rumen pH, stabilization additives, etc.

Which of these areas has the greatest opportunity to improve profits?

What are the benefits of precision feeding?

Find out the answers to these questions in next week's blog post!

Visit www.hoards.com and click on "Hoards Webinars" to view this and other archived webinars!

Source: "Precision Feeding" Hoard's Webinar presented by Dr. Mike Hutjens, University of Illinois, on October 10, 2011.

Getting the score on cow hygiene

2011-11-09T16:25:00.000-06:00

Poor cow hygiene can contribute to mastitis, Johne's disease, salmonella, and a host of other health issues. To help producers quantify herd hygiene, Nigel B. Cook of the University of Wisconsin-Madison developed the "Hygiene Scoring Card." This system should be used as a troubleshooting tool and to assess improvements in hygiene management.

In a herd of less than 100 head, Cook recommends scoring all cows. In a herd of 100+ cows, he recommends scoring at least 25% of the cows in each pen.

Three zones should be scored separately: lower leg, udder, and upper leg & flank. Each zone is scored on a scale of 1-4, with scores of 3 & 4 showing a poor level of hygiene.

Below are images from the Hygiene Scoring Card. Hygiene scores appear on the bottom right corner of each image. Brief descriptions for each score have been provided.

Click on this link to view the Hygiene Scoring Card and instructions for its use:
http://www.vetmed.wisc.edu/dms/fapm/fapmtools/4hygiene/hygiene.pdf

Source: N.B. Cook, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Count on these Patz Proven Performers to keep
your cows happy, clean, and healthy!

Visit www.patzcorp.com to view our full line of manure-handling equipment!

10 Tips for Round Bale Storage

2011-11-02T09:14:00.000-05:00

Storing round bales outside, unprotected can result in significant storage losses. Depending on bale quality, storage conditions, and length of time in storage, dry matter losses can reach 50 percent.

Minimize your round bale hay storage losses by following these tips:

Bales should be well-shaped and as dense as possible - the tighter the outer layer, the lower the losses.
Use bales stored outside without protection by early spring, before air temperature, humidity, and precipitation increase significantly.
Select a storage site that is not shaded, is open to breezes, and is well-drained.
Keep bales off the ground.
Store bales, buffed end-to-end, in rows at least three feet apart.
Orient bales in a north/south direction.
Consider covering bales with reinforced plastic as it withstands punctures & tears. With proper care, it can last up to three years.
Weight covers along the edges and ends, but do not tie covers down tight.
If bales are stacked in under-roof storage, interior height clearance must be at least two feet higher than the stack height.
New storage buildings should be constructed on a well-drained site near the feeding area.

Source: "Round bale hay storage" article by Raymond L. Huhnke. Progressive Forage Grower website. October 17, 2011.

"The 'ABCDEFGs' for healthy calves"

2011-10-26T09:10:00.000-05:00

A successful calf raising management plan must involve proper attention to all of the interrelated factors affecting disease prevention, death rates, and sick calf treatment.

Neil Broadwater, University of Minnesota Extension Educator-Dairy, provides the following "ABCDEFGs" for healthy calves. They apply to every calf raising situation on farm operations of any size.

Attention to Detail - Close attention must be paid to all calf management practices. Requires a truly concerned attitude to ensure that each calf's daily needs are met.
Bedding - A generous, dry bed of fluffy material provides a cushioned, comfortable resting surface to absorb moisture, reduce risk of disease, reduce stress, and help keep calves clean.
Cleanliness - A clean environment reduces bacteria and other pathogens which take energy for a calf's immune system to overcome.
Dry - In dry environments, viruses and bacteria do not grow as well.
Environment - A calf's environment includes housing type, available space, air quality, and surfaces that they come into contact with.
Feeding Utensils - Time must be taken to thoroughly clean and disinfect feeding utensils after each use to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Growth Success - Monitoring the growth rate of calves is important as it will ultimately affect the timing of puberty, age of first freshening, and first lactation milk production.

Read the full article by clicking on the source link below:

"The 'ABCDEFGs' for healthy calves" article by Neil Broadwater, University of Minnesota Extension Educator-Dairy. Retrieved from http://www1.extension.umn.edu/dairy/calves-and-heifers/the-abcdefgs-for-healthy-calves/

*Photo by Peggy Greb, USDA online image gallery.

"Ten Do's and Don'ts for 'Low-Cost' & 'Retrofit' Milking Parlors"

2011-10-19T07:59:00.001-05:00

'Low-cost' is not the same as 'cheap' when converting an existing building into a milking center. Careful planning and attention to detail are essential for creating a safe and productive milking environment for cows and employees.

Dr. Doug Reinemann, Professor, Biological Systems Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, proposes these 10 do's and don'ts for planning a milking parlor, especially for 'retrofit' and 'low-cost' alternatives:

Know how much you can spend.
Let the installer design the milking system.
Don't overestimate the value of old equipment.
Get the building right.
Plan the building, stalls and holding area for good cow flow.
Rewire if you remodel.
Put in good quality, energy-efficient lights.
Invest in energy saving technology.
Make sure floors drain well.
Install good ventilation.

Click here to read Dr. Reinemann's comments in full.

Source: "Ten Do's & Don'ts for 'Low-Cost' & 'Retrofit' Milking Parlors" article by Dan F. McFarland. Penn State Extension's The Dairy Focus, August 2011, Volume 12 Issue 3.

Ten cow quirks you must remember

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here's what you need to know about cow habits before they start working for you.

by Hoard's Dairyman staff

Cows are social herd animals. Even in a large
pasture, they typically move as a group.

Cows are born animals of prey.
They don't waste their time at the feed bunk.
Cows are social herd animals.
She's got eyes in the back of her head! (well, almost).
They don't see color like we do.
They are farsighted.
They love the light.
They like it cool.
She likes her personal space.
Cows can be dangerous.

Read the complete article in the August 25th issue of Hoard's Dairyman!

Source:"Ten cow quirks you must remember" article by Hoard's Dairyman staff. Hoard's Dairyman,
August 25, 2011 issue.

"Our cows are up 15 lbs. since we switched to Patz."

2011-10-05T09:16:00.000-05:00

Nathan and Matt Meyer, Jeremy and Brandon Kramer
of Kramer Dairy, Gibbon, MN.

"We had a reel mixer before, but our Patz can mix faster, and we can feed baleage now. Our cows are up 15 lbs. since we switched to Patz."

Read what others are saying about our complete line of Vertical Mixers -
visit www.patzcorp.com and click on "Success Stories!"

*As featured in the October 8, 2011 issue of Dairy Star.

Check out the Patz displays at the 2011 World Dairy Expo!

2011-10-03T10:49:00.000-05:00

In Madison, WI, World Dairy Expo will kick off its "AROUND THE WORLD OF DAIRY IN 5 DAYS" show tomorrow, October 4th.

Make sure to check out the Patz displays in the Exhibition Hall and outdoor Trade Mall!
Our displays will feature a variety of feed and manure handling equipment including Patz Vertical Mixers, Conveyors, Silo Unloaders, Alley Scrapers, Bale Choppers, Manure Pumps, & Gutter Cleaners. Patz Reps. will be available to answer questions and provide information to visitors throughout the duration of the
5-day expo.

What: World Dairy Expo

Where: Alliant Energy Center in Madison, WI
Exhibition Hall - Spaces #1816-1818; 1916-1918
Trade Mall - Lot #751

When: October 4-8, 2011

Why: Patz Reps. will be onsite, ready to answer your questions and explain how Patz equipment can provide feed and manure handling solutions for your operation!

Don't forget to check out the NEW Vertical Mixer Series on display!

Visit www.worlddairyexpo.com for more information!

How to feed your herd for optimal protein production

2011-09-28T12:31:00.001-05:00

For producers that are paid on multiple component pricing, milk protein can have a substantial effect on profits. In this month's Hoard's Webinar, Nutrition Consultant Mike Schwab discussed the "why" behind low milk protein and revealed how to increase this component on a dairy.

What can cause low milk protein?

Overfeeding fermentable starch, sugars, and/or fat.
Underfeeding peNDF.
Feeding spoiled and contaminated feed.
Inconsistent feeding practices and herd nutrition, i.e. poor mixing, inconsistent feeding frequency, etc.
Too little RDP and/or RUP in the ration.
Low quality RUP.

Count on a Patz Vertical Mixer to produce
a high-quality, consistent ration for your herd!

How do I feed for protein production?

Deliver high quality feeds.
Provide well-balanced and consistent rations.
Feed blend of high quality fermentable carbs and physically effective fiber.
Incorporate high-Lys protein and/or RPLYS supplements.
Feed rumen-protected Met supplement.
Only supplement RUP as needed. An excess increases ration costs and could lower milk/milk component yields.

"Take-home" messages:

Cows love the palatable TMR
that Patz Vertical Mixers deliver!

Feeding for protein production increases milk yield, protein percentage, protein yield, and a dairy's profitability.
Feeding for milk protein ¹ feeding more protein.
Nutrition models are valuable tools.
Eliminate environmental and facility stressors wherever possible.

*Ultimately, cows are more accurate than nutrition models when making final decisions!

Source: "Feeding for Protein Production" Hoard's Webinar presented by Chuck Schwab, Nutrition Consultant. September 12, 2011.

"...our Patz does a better job and takes less time..."

2011-09-21T10:34:00.000-05:00

Pictured left to right: Grant, Andy, Emma, Austin, Alex, James, &
Matthew Hausladen of Hausladen Dairy, New Germany, MN.

“We have a high hay ration, and our Patz does a better job and takes less time to mix than our old auger mixer.”

*As featured in the September 24, 2011

issue of Dairy Star.

Got a Hungry Herd? Get a Patz Vertical Mixer!

Feed high hay rations: Process a variety of feeds with ease, including
round and square hay bales, wet or dry!
Reduce feed costs: Flexibility to use less expensive alternatives!
Save time, labor, & fuel: Quickly mix a consistent, thorough TMR!

SEEING IS BELIEVING!
Read more Customer Success Stories here!

Silo Gas Safety Tips

2011-09-14T15:04:00.000-05:00

Dr. Ken Griswold,
Penn State Extension Educator

As part of the Penn State Cooperative Extension dairy team, Dr. Ken Griswold is no amateur when it comes to working with silos. Last fall, he proved that no matter how much experience you have, no one is immune to safety hazards.

Shortly after working in a silo, Griswold was rushed to the emergency room, coughing up blood and experiencing difficulty breathing. Doctors diagnosed him with silo filler's disease, an illness caused by exposure to silo gases.

After this harrowing experience, Dr. Griswold shared his story and spread the word about silo safety at the Vita Plus Custom Harvester Meeting in Madison, WI.

Griswold recommends that no one enter a silo for 21 days after forage is put up. If you absolutely must enter, follow these tips:

With doors closed, use a blower to ventilate the silo for a minimum of 30 minutes before entering.
Keep the fans running the entire time you're in the silo.
Do not enter the silo from the top.
If you see or smell gas at any time, get out immediately.
Tell someone if you will be working in or around the silo!

Source: Andrea Bloom. "The biggest problem with silage? SAFETY!" Retrieved April 8, 2011 from www.progressiveforage.com.
**This article was also featured in the April 2011 issue of the Patz LINK Newsletter. Click here to read this and other past LINK Newsletters!

Watch Penn State's Technology Tuesdays Webinar entitled "Silo Safety" to hear Dr. Griswold recount his experience with dangerous silo gases!

Penn State's Technology Tuesdays Webinar Series features presentations on dairy-related subjects such as safety, energy, weather-related management, animal well-being and & housing.

September 13th's "Silo Safety" webinar features Dr. Griswold's account as well as other important information on silo gases & confined space entry. If you would like to watch "Silo Safety" and other archived webinars, click here.

Further your education for FREE! This Webinar Series also qualifies for SmartStart credits through AgChoice Farm Credit! Visit www.agchoice.com for details.

Congratulations to Hoard's Dairyman Farm!

2011-09-07T17:15:00.002-05:00

W.D. Hoard, founder
of Hoard's Dairyman

126 years ago, W.D. Hoard purchased 193 acres of land in Fort Atkinson, WI. Included in his investment were a few grade Guernseys. Hoard's plans for the property went far beyond harvesting crops and milking cows. As founder and original editor of Hoard's Dairyman magazine, he wanted to research dairying practices first-hand so that he could pass his findings on to readers.

Today this research continues, but on a much larger scale. The 193-acre farm has grown to an expansive 550 acres. Once home to "a few" grade Guernseys, Hoard's Dairyman Farm's herd consists of 330 Registered Guernseys and 100 Registered Jerseys.

For more than a century, Hoard's Dairyman Farm has been providing farmers with valuable insight into the dairy industry, including opportunities to tour their operation.

Hoard's Dairyman Farm

Last July, the farm was presented with the American Guernsey Association's Commercial Herd Award, recognizing them as the highest-producing herd with more than 100 cows recorded for milk, fat, and protein.
Check out their impressive herd averages below:

20,119 lbs. of milk
966 lbs. butterfat
661 lbs. protein
*Herd of 243 Guernseys

Congratulations to Hoard's Dairyman Farm on this outstanding accomplishment!

Sources: Agro, Brittany."Hats off to Hoard's Farm." American Business Media: Media Pace, August 8, 2011. http://abm.typepad.com/mediapace/2011/08/hats-off-to-hoards-farm.html
Photos were retrieved from the Hoard's Dairyman Farm website on Sept. 7, 2011. http://www.hoards.com/farm

FREE Learning Opportunity!

Visit the Hoard's Dairyman website and click on "Hoard's Webinars" to see what dairy experts have to say about issues like finances, nutrition, herd management, and more!

Tune in at 12:00 p.m. (CST) on the second Monday of each month for a new one-hour webinar!

Missed an episode? No problem! View archived webinars right from the Hoard's website!

PLUS...each webinar is approved for one continuing education unit from the
American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists!

Don’t miss out on this amazing FREE opportunity! Sign up here today!

*You do not need to be registered to view past webinars.

Better silage management could mean a better bottom line...

2011-08-31T14:34:00.000-05:00

Patz Model 98C Surface Drive Silo Unloaders
help keep silage compacted for better quality feed!

A good packing density (min. 15 lbs. DM/cu. ft.) is essential for preserving silage quality, preventing spoilage, and minimizing dry matter losses. Various factors influence packing density, a number of which can be controlled through proper management.

In a recent issue of Progressive Forage Grower,
Bob Charley identified 8 such factors:

Forage maturity/dry matter
• Wetter forage: Compacts more easily. Seepage and a butyric fermentation more likely.
• Drier forage: Harder to pack & keep compacted. Higher levels of yeasts and molds more likely.
Chop length & processing
• Easier to compact smaller particles; however, particle size must be balanced against feeding objectives.
Storage structure
• Towers: Gravity compacts lower layers of material; upper layers not adequately packed.
• Proper management of bagging machines is critical.
Forage delivery rate
• Control is often impractical.
• Match against optimum packing time/number of tractors.
Packing tractor weight
• Est. amount of packing weight required: multiply est. tons of crops delivered to silo/hr. by 800
Adding packing tractors
• Optimal packing time is 1-3 min./ton of forage.
• May need additional packing tractors to avoid impacting forage delivery rate.
Packing layer depth
• Thinner is better - 6" maximum.
Silo height
• Greater height increases silage density in lower layers.
• Piles & bunkers - Greater height can result in inadequately packed upper layers which can cause safety issues while filling and at feedout!

Wondering how better silage management could help your bottom line?

Visit the University of Wisconsin's website and click on
"Determining Value of Improved Silage Management" for a helpful planning tool!

Source: "Silage packing density: A critical management control point" article by Bob Charley.
Progressive Forage Grower, Issue 5, June 1, 2011.

Patz 1200 Series Vertical Mixer mixes faster...

2011-08-24T11:30:00.000-05:00

Gary Weymiller of Weymiller Farms, IA

Patz 1200 Series Single Screw Vertical Mixer - 615 cu. ft.

"We use a lot of hay in our beef ration,
and our Patz mixes faster than our reel mixer.
The cleanout is good, and the Patz is built heavier."
-Gary Weymiller, IA

*As featured in the August 27, 2011 issue of Dairy Star.

Experience what others already know!
Patz Vertical Mixers Save Time, Labor, Fuel & Feed!

• Process a variety of feed ingredients!

• Mix fast!

• Deliver a thorough, consistent TMR!

• Fast discharge with superior cleanout!

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Click here to read "Success Stories" from other satisfied Patz Customers!

The complete Patz Vertical Mixer Series includes:

Trailer, stationary & truck mount units; single, twin & triple screw sizes from 140-1,580 cu. ft.

How to maximize your dairy's profitability with minimal investment: Preventing Aggressive Feeding Behavior (Part 5 of 5)

2011-08-19T15:25:00.000-05:00

Hungry cows mean business. Though typically viewed as docile animals, cows have a naturally aggressive feeding drive.

In 1999, Hansen and Pallesen conducted a study, revealing the extreme nature of this drive. Despite physical injury, cows willingly exert more than 500 lbs. of pressure against feed barriers while eating. To put this amount of force into perspective, just 225 lbs. of pressure will cause acute tissue damage. The bend in the feed barrier, pictured left, was likely caused by cows straining for feed.

Clearly, competition for feed cannot be totally eliminated. However, you can improve the feeding environment to reduce aggressive behavior.

Hungry cows devour the fresh ration
delivered by this Patz Vertical Mixer.

In his recent Hoard's Webinar, Rick Grant presented the following as drivers of feeding behavior:

*Biggest driver is the delivery of a fresh TMR.
Optimal feeding frequency is twice per day.
Easy feed accessibility.
Effective feed push-up strategy.

Also worth noting: mixing older cows and first-calf heifers in a group can be problematic due to natural behavioral differences. Heifers take smaller bites, eat slower, and spend more time feeding than older cows. They are also less dominant making them more easily displaced from the manger, even in the absence of overcrowding. Studies have shown that competition with older cows reduces a heifer's DMI, resting time, rumination, drinking, and milk production.

This marks the end of our five-post blog series on Rick Grant's Hoard's Webinar, "Managing cow behavior for profit and performance."

Source: "Managing cow behavior for profit and performance" Hoard's Webinar presented by Rick Grant, Miner Institute. May 9, 2011.

How to maximize your dairy's profitability with minimal investment: Increased resting time = more milk (Part 4 of 5)

2011-08-19T12:42:00.001-05:00

So, how did you sleep last night? According to research, adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Did you know that sleep deprivation has been linked to serious problems including anxiety, diabetes, heart issues, weight gain, and impaired memory?

According to Rick Grant's Hoard's Webinar, resting time is also vital for cows; they are biologically driven to rest. In fact, cows will sacrifice one minute of eating for every 3.5 minutes of lost resting time. Ideally, they should be resting about 12 hrs/day. (Click here for more info on time budgeting).

A 2003 study by Matzke compared the productivity of cows & first-calf heifers when they were away from the pen for three vs. six hrs/day. By reducing time away from the pen from six to three hours, cows gained an average of 2.6 hrs/day resting time and produced an additional 5 lbs. of milk. Even more impressive, first-calf heifers gained an average of 4.1 hrs/day resting time and produced an additional 7.9 lbs. of milk.

Bottom line: there is a clear biological link between incremental increases in resting time and milk production.

FYI: The final post in this blog series will be available today at 3 p.m. CST!

Interested in more information on resting time?

Click on the link below to watch Grant's webinar!

Source: "Managing cow behavior for profit and performance" Hoard's Webinar presented by Rick Grant, Miner Institute. May 9, 2011.

How to maximize your dairy's profitability with minimal investment: Four ways to increase DMI by 1 lb. (Part 3 of 5)

2011-08-18T15:00:00.006-05:00

Everyone is looking for ways to increase DMI. According to Rick Grant's Hoard's Webinar, several ways to increase DMI reside in your feeding area...

Feeding area: ways to increase DMI by one pound
(Grant and Albright, 1997)

Manger surface •Replace concrete with ceramic tile for a cleaner, more durable surface. •Projected cost: ~$2/ft. of manger.
Feed Accessibility •Implement frequent feed push-ups. •Make feed available at least 21 hrs/day.
Bunk space •Provide at least 24" per lactating cow and 30" per transition/fresh cow.
Alley width behind feed manger •Optimize feed intake with 14' alley width.

Watch this informative Hoard's Webinar by clicking on the source link below!

P.S. Log on tomorrow for the final two posts of this 5-part series!

Source: "Managing cow behavior for profit and performance" Hoard's Webinar presented by Rick Grant, Miner Institute. May 9, 2011.

How to maximize your dairy's profitability with minimal investment: Importance of stocking density (Part 2 of 5)

2011-08-18T12:20:00.005-05:00

Common sense tells us that packing 300 cows into a 100-stall free stall barn would seriously sacrifice cow comfort. This is clearly an extreme example of overcrowding...but what about a more realistic situation? Would 120 cows be considered overcrowded? 150?

When talking about overcrowding, a term that frequently comes up is "stocking density." But what is stocking density exactly? According to Dale Moore's article in the Western Daily News,

"Stocking density on the dairy, also known as stocking rate, is the number of animals per unit area in a drylot pen or pasture, the number of animals per free stall in a free stall pen, or the number of feet of bunk space" (Moore).

As discussed in Part 1 of this 5-post blog series, Rick Grant's recent Hoard's Webinar focused on the impacts that a cow's physical and social environments have on her productivity and health. Stocking density was an important factor in determining the quality of the social environment for a herd.

The webinar contains a wealth of valuable information that is definitely worth checking out. For now, here is a brief overview of Grant's presentation on stocking density:

What types of behavioral changes can overcrowding produce?

Greater aggression & displacements at feed bunk
Greater feeding rate
Reduced resting time
Increased idle standing in alleys
Decreased rumination
Subordinate most affected

How could overstocking negatively affect my bottom line?

Less milk yield
Lower milk fat
Greater SCC
More health disorders
Increased lameness
Fewer cows pregnant

What is optimal stocking density?

Close-up and fresh: ≤ 80% of bunk space
Lactating cows: → 4-row barn: don't exceed 115-120% of stalls (note - mixed heifers & older cows: 100%)
→ 6-row barn: 100% of stalls (limited research available)

Check back at 3 p.m. (CST) for Part 3 of this 5-post blog series: 4 ways to increase DMI by 1 lb.!

Sources: "Managing cow behavior for profit and performance" Hoard's Webinar presented by Rick Grant, Miner Institute. May 9, 2011.
"Stocking density: How much?" article by Dale A. Moore. Western Dairy News, December 2010 issue. Vol. 10, No. 11.

How to maximize your dairy's profitability with minimal investment: Introduction (Part 1 of 5)

2011-08-17T14:25:00.127-05:00

In one word, describe a person whose daily schedule looks something like this:

13 hours lying in bed, 6 hours eating, 2 hours wandering around, and 3 hours working.

Several words are probably running through your mind right now, but I think it's safe to say that "productive" isn't one of them. However, "productive" would be the perfect word to describe a dairy cow following this type of schedule.

In a recent Hoard's Webinar, Rick Grant of the Miner Institute discussed the impact that the physical and social environments surrounding a dairy cow have on herd health and productivity. To illustrate this impact, he presented the flow chart below:

Without the right environment, cows will budget the time they spend resting, feeding, and ruminating ineffectively. This altered time budgeting contradicts a cow's natural behaviors, leading to decreased productivity and more health issues. Grant proposed a typical time budget of a dairy cow in a free-stall environment as follows:

Grant's webinar was so jam-packed with valuable information that I couldn't fit it all into one post!

STAY TUNED! The next four posts will reveal tips and strategies for creating the best environments for resting and feeding!

Source: "Managing cow behavior for profit and performance" Hoard's Webinar presented by Rick Grant, Miner Institute. May 9, 2011.

Patz Vertical TMR Mixer Eliminates DAs on Hess Farms!

2011-08-10T13:49:00.002-05:00

Joe Hess of Hess Farms, Lansing, IA
Patz 1200 Series Trailer Single Screw Vertical Mixer

Since purchasing its first TMR Mixer,

Hess Farms enjoys:

Greater ration options with ability to add hay.
Cows cleaning up the feed with no waste.
Improved herd health.
Eliminating waste with mixer's great cleanout.
Ability to use mixer to process straw for bedding.

Click here to find out what Joe Hess had to say about his new Patz Mixer!

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Read more Success Stories from satisfied Patz customers here!

Invest in your TMR & maximize profits

2011-08-10T13:11:00.000-05:00

The equation for profitability is simple: Income-Costs = Profits

Increased profits can be achieved by increasing income, lowering costs, or both. In last month's issue of Progressive Dairyman, Elliot Block recommended that dairy producers switch their focus from the cost side of the equation to the income side because it is almost always more profitable:

"Rather than trying to identify which feeds can be removed to quickly shrink feed bills, think of the ration as an investment. The ration delivered to the feedbunk must allow cows to maximize production, remain healthy and become bred in a timely manner."

To generate more profits, Block suggests the use of marginal thinking in making decisions. To think marginally, two numbers related to feed costs must be identified:

"Average maintenance per cow per day." Look at cost of dry cow ration to determine maintenance feed cost.
"Additional feed cost per hundredweight of marginal milk."

*See "Table 1" below for an example of how these numbers can help determine greatest IOFC. For further explanation of the "math" behind marginal thinking, click here.

In the example above, feeding a cow to produce 90 lbs. of milk costs $0.90 more than feeding a 70-lb. cow. Based on a milk price of $16/cwt., the 90-lb. cow generates an additional $3.20 in milk revenue cost. This is far greater than the additional feed cost, resulting in an IOFC (income over feed costs) increase of $2.30.

Obtaining the greatest revenue through marginal thinking requires a willingness to:

"Invest in the ration."
"Utilize high-quality, proven ingredients."
"Break from the cost-cutting mentality."
"Make a change" - continually evaluate & evolve diets for optimal performance.
"Work with your nutritionist to properly balance the ration."

Source: "Marginal thinking: Long-term approach to decision-making" article by Elliot Block.
Progressive Dairyman, Issue 10, July 1, 2011.

Don't SPOIL Good Nutrition With a POOR Mix!

Feed your herd with a Patz Vertical Mixer and experience:

Ability to process a variety of ingredients!
Consistent, thorough TMR!
Fast mixing with superior cleanout!
Time, labor, fuel, & feed savings!

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Click here to view the full Patz Vertical Mixer Series.

Keep flies away from your farm's bottom line

2011-08-04T07:21:00.001-05:00

Ahhh...the joys of summer. Just sit back, close your eyes, and imagine the scene - birds chirping, sun shining, streams bubbling, flies biting... I think it goes without saying that "one of these things doesn't belong here."

This time of year, the fly population grows rapidly as their generation time within manure and decaying feeds is numbered. Also growing is a public awareness of the diseases flies can transmit to animals and humans, making fly control more important than ever.

In his article "More than a nuisance - flies impact your bottom line," Steve McKinley explains how these diseases and the irritation flies inflict on cows can substantially impact profitability. Although the actual monetary loss is difficult to determine, various studies estimate declines in milk production ranging from 10-20% when there is a heavy infestation of biting flies. Veterinarians and university researchers have attributed several factors to the growing costs for producers.

Factors in Lost Profitability include:

A cow's attempts to ward off flies increase her heart/respiratory rate & body temperature, increasing the risk of heat stress.

Difficulty differentiating between heat stress & parasite infestation (or both).

Increased nutrient demand due to blood loss.

Staphylococcus & Streptococcus mastitis infections.

Patz Alley Scrapers help maintain a sanitary
environment to keep cows clean and healthy.

To avoid infestation and profit losses, sanitation is essential. Maintaining a sanitary environment involves removing manure frequently, keeping bedding clean & dry, cleaning up spilled feed immediately, etc.

There are also many products available to help control flies and prevent infestation. Do not apply any product to an animal that is "not cleared for direct animal use."

Take-home message: The cost of fly prevention/control is minimal when compared to the mounting costs of an infestation.

Click on the source link below to read the full article.

Source: "More than a nuisance - flies impact your bottom line" article by Steve McKinley, M.S., Ph.D.
Progressive Dairyman website, retrieved 08/03/11.

Australian farmers save time, labor, fuel & feed with a Patz Vertical Mixer!

2011-08-03T15:11:00.000-05:00

Black-soil plains and rolling hills abound in the
Rosenbergers' 2,500 acres of farmland.

Located in Australia’s Darling Downs, brothers Owen & Ross Rosenberger are the third generation to run their family’s dairy farm in its sixty years of operation. The dairy was established in the rural town of Oakey, a place of fertile black-soil plains and picturesque rolling hills. The Rosenbergers’ farming operation includes 2,500 acres of this rich land.

Having grown up on a dairy farm, the brothers recognize the impact that feed quality has on herd health and milk production. They know their 550 cows require a consistent, thorough TMR to stay healthy and productive.

After learning about the benefits Patz Vertical Mixers provide at CRT FarmFest in Toowoomba, Queensland, they purchased a 620H cu. ft. Patz Model 800 Twin Screw Vertical Mixer.

Owen Rosenberger stands by his Patz
Proven Performer Model 800 Vertical Mixer.

According to Owen, replacing their old mixer with a Patz has proven to be an excellent decision. He reports savings in all areas of their operation, including time, feed materials, labor, increased production, and better herd health!

One benefit they particularly appreciate is the mixer’s fast mixing speed. Owen says that they have saved valuable time, labor, and fuel because of it.

Plus, Owen likes the simplicity of the mixer and its “operator-friendly” design. Patz Vertical Mixers are engineered with few moving parts for long life, low-maintenance and trouble-free operation.

“The mixer has worked now for 12 months with absolutely zero problems. The knives have not been changed and aren’t even showing significant wear. They will most likely last for another 12 months! ” he stated.

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Read additional Success Stories from satisfied Patz customers here.

Patz Puts Farm Safety First for Local Youths

2011-07-29T10:54:00.000-05:00

How To Conduct a Penn State Shaker Box Test

2011-07-27T15:16:00.003-05:00

Step 1

Stack the three plastic separator boxes on top of each
other, and place 7 cups of forage in the top box.

Step 2

Shake the separator five times, and then rotate
it a quarter turn. Repeat this process four times.

Step 3

Empty the material remaining in the top screen
onto a plate or other lightweight container.
(Image above

Step 4

Weigh the material and record the weight.

Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the second
screen and the bottom pan.

For detailed testing instructions and to learn how to read your results, reference Tom Oelberg's article, "Tips for improving TMR consistency," as featured in the December 2009 issue of Hoard's West.

Source: "Nasco's 2-Sieve Forage Particle Separator" product information retrieved from Nasco's online catalog on March 27, 2011.

"Corn Silage: Getting it Right!"

2011-07-27T15:16:00.000-05:00

In this month's Hoard's Webinar, Mike Hutjens (pictured left) revealed how to
"get corn silage right," all the way from chopping to feeding.

Here are his five recommendations:

1. Chop corn silage at its optimal maturity.

Use corn silage for 2/3-3/4 of forage dry matter.
Hutjens recommends chopping low (6.8 ± 2.5") for greater yield.
Opt for a later cut to maximize starch.

2. Processing corn silage correctly is critical.

Higher effective fiber, processing score, consistency of cut...the processing challenge is that "you can not have it all."
Hutjens' bottom line - process all corn silage for the optimal product.

3. Inoculating is recommended.

Study results indicate significant improvements in DM digestibility and recovery with the use of inoculants.
Hutjens estimates the benefit to cost ratio of inoculants to be 6:1.

4. Packing & covering are critical.

When covering, be sure to overlap plastic by 6-8 ft.
The thinner the layer of silage, the more dense it is. Ex. 2-4" thick is better than 6-10".
The drier the corn silage, the better it packs.

5. Balance rations to complement corn silage nutrients.

NDFD increases during storage as organic acids increase fiber digestibility (initial 3 months).
As corn silage is stored, more starch is available in the rumen (4-6 months after ensiling).
Hutjens' take home message: Aim for "Christmas corn silage!" In other words, wait until December to open new silage.

Source: "Corn Silage: Getting it Right!" Hoard's Webinar presented by Mike Hutjens on July 11, 2011.

FURTHER YOUR EDUCATION FOR FREE!

Hoard's Webinars are now approved for continuing education units (CEU) from the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists.

Each hour-long webinar will earn one CEU!

Click here for more information!

Patz Vertical Mixers help Japanese dairy farmers

2011-07-20T08:21:00.000-05:00


Patz personnel shown left to right: Gary Gluth, International Sales Manager; Teri Peterson, Senior Customer Support Representative; Roger Lockstein, Shipping Supervisor and Jon Patz, VP of Marketing.

Two more Patz Vertical Mixers (pictured) embarked for Japan on May 31. After a month-long journey overseas, the Patz Model 800 Twin Screw Vertical Mixers are supplying the herds of two Japanese dairy farms with a thorough, consistent TMR.

Japan is one of Patz Corporation's oldest international markets, having established an International Distributorship there in 1974. Japanese dairy farmers continue to rely on this distributorship for Patz products and services as they have for the past 37 years.

After March's devastating earthquakes and the ensuing tsunami, Japanese farmers were left with extensive damage to their farms and processing facilities. Four months later, the agriculture industry is making headway. However, the people of Japan continue to struggle with power shortages and the ongoing nuclear power plant crisis.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan as they persevere in rebuilding their lives in the wake of tragedy.

"Making feeders better feeders"

2011-07-13T09:34:00.000-05:00

"There is one employee on many farms who is often overlooked but may be the most important person on any dairy farm...it's the feeder" (Dyk 2011).

Paul Dyk, a University of WI extension agent, helped design a multiday training program to teach feeders the basics of dry matter, sampling forages, feed mixing, safety, quality control, and inventory management. Dyk is well aware of the importance of feed management in an operation's profitability. The lack of training protocols and programs available to feeders prompted him to help create this program.

Over 70 feeders in northeast Wisconsin participated in the program during 2009 and 2010. Dyk identified two groups of feeders during the course that had very different needs:
1. 70% - Experienced and seasoned English-speaking employees.
2. 30% - Spanish-speaking employees with limited feeding experience.

Dyk identified seven areas that deserve attention to make feeders the best feeders:

"The basics are important." Feeders must understand the fundamentals of dry matter and proper forage sampling.
"Managing bags is difficult." More "how to" information should be made available to help feeders unload bags properly.
"Taking feed out of a bunker is not the same as putting it in." There needs to be new protocols for safely removing plastic and tires.
"Mixing feed is not like the Betty Crocker cookbook." Feeders are interested in topics such as mixer run time, tractor RPM, ingredient order, etc., and more resources should be developed to assist them in these areas.
"Weekend feeders are to blame for everything that goes wrong." This statement is not 100% true but may appear to be because weekend feeders often do not receive as much training as regular feeders.
"Computers don't solve all problems." Software is valuable as far as adjusting dry matter and monitoring shrink, but it does not train feeders on everything they need to know, i.e. removing tires from bunkers, maintaining a mixer, etc.
"Dry matter intake is still a mystery." Calculating DMI accurately is essential to predicting and preventing problems in feed management and could reveal changes in forage DM, forage quality, mixing errors, etc.

Check out page 365 in the May 25, 2011 issue of Hoard's Dairyman to learn more about this training program!

"Making feeders better feeders" article by Paul Dyk. Hoard's Dairyman, May 25, 2011 issue.

Patz Displays New Mixer at MSU's Ag Expo

2011-07-12T15:03:00.000-05:00

What: Patz Display at Michigan State University's (MSU) Ag Expo

Where: 565 East Lansing

When: July 19-21, 2011

Why: Check out our new 810 cu. ft. 2400 Series II Vertical Mixer on-display! Knowledgeable Patz Reps. will be on-site to explain why our Vertical Mixer Series can handle your TMR recipe, regardless of batch size.

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Tell Patz Rep. Mike Smith that you read this blog post and

ask him about a Patz Vertical Mixer demo!

Visit www.agexpo.msu.edu for show details!

"The five freedoms of cattle"

2011-07-06T07:00:00.076-05:00

Across livestock industries, animal welfare continues to be a hot topic of discussion. In his recent article for Progressive Dairyman, Ron Gill takes a look at one philosophy regarding animal welfare management - the "Five Freedoms." Dr. John Webster, researcher and Professor of Animal Husbandry (University of Bristol), helped develop this philosophy known as the "Five Freedoms" in 1979. According to Dr. Webster,

"...the five freedoms are an attempt to make the best of a complex situation. Absolute attainment of all five freedoms is unrealistic. By revealing that all commercial husbandry systems have their strengths and weaknesses, the five freedoms make it, on one hand, more difficult to sustain a sense of absolute outrage against any particular system...and easier to plan constructive, step by step, routes towards its improvement."

Although the term "freedoms" in this context could be debated, at the very least these five "freedoms" of cattle comprise a good list of what managers of livestock should strive to provide:

Freedom from thirst, hunger and malnutrition -- by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigor.
Freedom from discomfort -- by providing a suitable environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
Freedom from pain, injury and disease -- by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
Freedom to express normal behavior -- by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animals' own kind.
Freedom from fear and distress -- by ensuring conditions that avoid mental suffering.

Freedom from discomfort may be the most widely discussed "freedom" in the cattle industry. Since the industry does not involve intensive animal confinement, the environment cannot be completely under human control. The main point is that cattle should have the ability to protect themselves from extreme environmental conditions whenever and wherever possible.

Freedom from pain, injury and disease warrants some further explanation. No one, humans included, can have a completely pain-free existence. However, pain should be managed as much as possible for both animal comfort and productivity. Injury and disease should be prevented and treated as soon as possible should they occur.

Freedom to express normal behavior is clearly demonstrated in traditional beef cattle operations. Throughout every phase of production, cattle are managed in groups and have ample space for expressing normal behavior.

Freedom from fear and distress essentially means preventing stress on the cattle. With the exception of weather-related stress, cattle become stressed due to human action. To help avoid stress, employees should be trained in animal care and handling. People hired with no real background in the industry need to understand how the well-being of animals will affect the cattle's quality of life, the people involved, and the operation's profitability.

Although fulfilling all five freedoms all of the time is impossible, they do outline the basic standards for animal welfare that every manager/owner of livestock should strive for on his operation.

Source: "The five freedoms of cattle" article by Ron Gill. Progressive Dairyman, June 11, 2011 issue.

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD!

VOTE in This Week's Poll!

Which freedom requires the most attention on your operation?

Exercise your FREEDOM TO CHOOSE...

from the full line of Patz Feed & Manure Handling Equipment
to help keep your herd happy, healthy, and productive!

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Here's what Patz Equipment owners are saying:

HAPPY: "The Patz Chopper processes 15 bales every day. We leave the cows right in the stanchions and blow the straw underneath them from behind. You want your girls to be comfortable. The better care you take of them, the better they take of you. Keeping fresh bedding under them every day gives them more comfort."

--W.N., WI

Patz Model 9427 Bale/Bedding Chopper

HEALTHY: "The (Patz) alley scrapers don't require much maintenance, and the cows are cleaner because of the cleaner alleys."

--D.S., WI

Patz Model 1500 Alley Scraper

PRODUCTIVE: "This is our first mixer. Before we were wasting two buckets of feed a day, and now they eat it all. We're up 12 pounds in the last month."

--J.W. & C.W., IA

Patz Model 800 Single Screw Vertical Mixer

WI Farm Technology Days is coming up on July 12-14!

Come visit us in Tent City to learn more about our full line of equipment!

Patz Reps will be on-hand.

Back to the Basics of Bunk Management

2011-06-29T15:06:00.000-05:00

USDA photo by Brian Prechtel.

Despite today's new technologies and advancements, the basic principle of sound bunk management continues to resurface as a successful strategy to enhance profitability.

Through his article in Progressive Cattleman, Chad Howlett describes feeding cattle as not just a science, but also an art. With record-high feed costs, feeders cannot afford to "learn the hard way" when their errors result in wasted feed, time, and fuel. Howlett presents several factors to help feeders master this art and science to avoid the potential consequences of "trial and error."

The Science

As cattle are ruminant animals, feeding consistency is key. Substantial variation in any of these areas can result in serious problems:

Ration fed - diet should be consistent.
Amount fed - prescribed increases should be at consistent times.
Time fed - variances of just 15 minutes can be detrimental.

Across the United States, clean/slick bunk management is considered "the norm." In this strategy intakes are controlled but not necessarily reduced as with "limit feeding." The amount fed matches the amount that the cattle can handle.

Studies of clean bunk management systems have indicated enhanced performance after implementing the strategy. According to Howlett, this type of response is most likely two-fold. First, the strategy may result in a decreased rate of acidosis, meaning cattle feel better and intake levels are more consistent throughout the feeding period. Second, cattle seem to eat more when there is some competition among them for feed. However, it is essential that all cattle have access to their share throughout the day.

Plus, sound bunk management reduces wasted and spoiled feed, nearly eliminating the need to manually shovel or clean bunks -- saving producers feed, time, and labor.

The Art

Factors such as cattle type, available feed, formulation strategies, etc. vary widely among cattle operations. These variances make it impossible to develop one set of clean bunk management guidelines suitable for every feeder across the board. This is where the science of feeding takes the backseat to "the art."

These points can assist the feeder in making an accurate feed call:

Keep track and be aware of cattle weight, age, & consumption history. *South Dakota State University's 4-point Bunk Scoring System is a helpful tool for measuring how much of a delivered ration is consumed.
Visually evaluate cattle behavior.
Evaluate manure for consistency and color.
- Flat, brown stools: good.
- Flat, gray stools: cattle are being pushed too hard.
- Predominantly brown with a few grays smattered about: indicates progress towards optimized performance.
Factor extremes in weather patterns into the equation. Ration presentation should always be palatable, fresh and thoroughly mixed.

TIP: Johnny Horton of Nutrition Services Associates suggests that you are at the right level of intake when:

25% of cattle are lined up at the bunk.
50% are making their way toward the bunk.
25% are getting up/stretching as the mixer approaches.

Keeping all of these points and tips in mind, work with your consultant to help you determine the best bunk management system for your operation.

Source: "Consistency defines success in your bunk management" article by Chad Howlett. Progressive Cattleman website, Friday, March 25, 2011.

Count on Patz Vertical Mixers for a Thorough, Consistent TMR!

"We had an auger mixer before. Our Patz Vertical mixes better and faster. We have more flexibility because we can mix long hay in the ration now and don't free choice anything. Now on our finishing ration, the steers can't sort through the feed."

-D.P., WI

420 cu. ft. Patz Single Screw Vertical Mixer

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Read more Customer Success Stories here!

Beat the Summer Heat!

2011-06-22T06:57:00.000-05:00

Sunshine, warm weather, green grass, blue skies, flowers, butterflies… What's not to like?

Fans help this herd
beat the heat while they eat!

Well, if cows could talk, they’d have no problem answering that question. Hot summer months often take a toll on herd health, reproductive performance, and milk production as cows struggle to beat the heat. However, by adjusting their rations, feeding habits, and dairy environments, producers can help improve cow comfort and lessen the impact of heat stress.

Ration Formulation: boost energy, protein, and minerals.

· Boosting energy is not as simple as just adding more corn - diets high in fermentable carbs can lead to rumen acidosis. To meet energy needs while maintaining rumen health, add other high-energy sources to the ration, like cottonseed or bypass fat.

· Feed a high-quality fiber to help stimulate rumination and maintain rumen health. Plus, low-quality forages require more energy to digest, causing greater heat production.

Increase levels of alkaline minerals.

· Alkaline minerals such as potassium and sodium help diminish many of the negative effects of heat stress, including rumen acidosis and DMI decline.

· Cows lose potassium faster when under heat stress through increased perspiration and urination. Adding high-quality potassium carbonate to a cow’s ration helps her transition better during the summer heat, maintain DMI, and experience better herd health and performance.

Feeding Habits

· Feed smaller meals throughout the day to help control acid levels in the rumen, which may reduce heat production during digestion.

· Feed during the coolest times of day as cows will consume more dry matter and will experience rumen fermentation before the hottest part of the day.

· Keep feed cool to prevent changes in palatability and composition. Consider placing shades over the feedbunk.

· Push/clean out bunk more frequently to stimulate eating and discard old, possibly spoiled, feed.

· Provide ample, clean waterers with sufficient water pressure. Make water available at parlor exit lanes as cows are the thirstiest right after milking.

Environment

· Install shades to avoid direct sunlight.

· Promote air movement with tunnel-ventilation systems, natural air flow, and/or fans.

· Use misters or soakers alongside fans for evaporative cooling.

Sources: “Feeding a top performer to beat the summertime heat” article by Elliot Block.
Progressive Dairyman, July 8, 2008 issue.
“Eight tips to minimize heat stress: An interview with Elliot Block.”
Progressive Dairyman Dairy Podcast, 5/10/11.

Conrad Liebergen, owner of
Brightside Dairy, LLC (left)
and Steve Kiley, feeder.

Count on Patz Vertical Mixers for

Superior Performance in All Seasons!

"Production increased 4+ pounds of milk per day during the time of year when just maintaining production is a challenge."
-- Conrad Liebergen, Greenleaf, WI

Read the full story here!

Get the Skinny on Feed Loss Prevention

2011-06-15T12:07:00.001-05:00

The goal of every dairy is profitability so most producers regularly evaluate their operations to find ways to reduce input costs. In these evaluations, one cost is frequently overlooked despite its significant impact on the bottom line. Here are a few facts about this "mystery" cost (Harner):

It occurs daily on most dairies.
It may account for 15-20% of your total feed cost.
Its cost is frequently ignored and considered "normal."
Reducing it by 50% can save about $100 per cow annually.
Its losses can be reduced in little to no cost ways.

If you haven't guessed it yet, the identity of this cost is...SHRINKAGE (also referred to as "shrink")! Many factors contribute to shrink: wind, wildlife, moisture, delivery weight errors, discarded feed, feed dispersed by tires and tracking, and mixing errors. Although shrink cannot be completely eliminated, producers can take steps to significantly reduce these feed losses. A livestock systems expert at Kansas State University, J.P. Harner presents several options:

Take moisture into account when formulating a ration as storage and rain/snow can alter moisture and dry matter content.
Lowering a curtain or flexible door at night or after feeding can prevent significant ingredient losses due to the elements - rain, snow, and wind.
Consider pre-weighing ingredients with a smaller stationary mixer prior to transferring the feed into a larger mixer or feed delivery wagon to help increase mixing accuracy.
Make sure your scale is accurately weighing ingredients. Scale accuracy is based on the load cells used to weigh the mixer box. Harner identifies two basic scale errors: scale inconsistency and consistent weight addition or subtraction. Both can lead to over or underfeeding of ingredients, among other problems.
Use windbreaks around three-sided commodity buildings to reduce shrink and minimize soil and foreign material from accumulating in the feed center area.

Illustrations of Effective Feed Center Designs

Figure 1 Advantages: Windbreak located at least 4 times the height of the windbreak away from the feed center can create a snow dump area. By modifying one side of a row of commodity bays, this design can include a second building to provide additional wind protection and/or a place to store additional commodities.

Figure 2 Advantages: The totally enclosed commodity building minimizes weather-related shrinkage losses. Make sure building width is large enough to accommodate semi-trucks delivering ingredients.

Figure 3 Advantages: This feed center provides room around the stationary mixer to use micro ingredient and liquid tanks. According to Harner, "Stationary mixers enable more hopper bottom tanks with automated handling equipment to be used for low-inclusion-rate ingredients and liquids." Close proximity of commodity bays to mixer provides adequate time to secure individual ingredients. This design also minimizes losses due to weather conditions.

Sources: "Efficient feed center design" article by J.P. Harner, J.F. Smith, M.J. Brouk, and B.J. Bradford, Kansas State University, Department of Animal Sciences and Industry. Western Dairy News, June 2011 issue.

"Shrink the Shrinkage" article by Catherine Merlo. Dairy Today, May 2011 issue.

Experience time, labor, feed, and fuel savings with a Patz Vertical Mixer!

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

"This is our first mixer. We save a lot of

labor and our feeding is more accurate.

We were just guessing before."

--Derrick Vagts and Dennis Linderbaum of Ossian, IA

Click here to view more Customer Success Stories!

The full Patz Vertical Mixer Series features trailer, stationary, and truck mount units with mixing capacities from 140-1,580 cu. ft.!

3 Steps to Feeding Success

2011-06-08T15:03:00.004-05:00

Feeders play a large role in the success of any dairy farm as their feeding methods impact herd health, milk production, and, ultimately, the bottom line. In a recent issue of Hoard's Dairyman, Felix Soriano identifies what he refers to as the three "PAC drivers of success" for feeding dairy cows: Precision, Attention to details, and Consistency.

1. Precision

Evaluate the following on feeding software reports:

Check the loading error by feeder by ingredient with the goal of less than 1 percent error.
Look at the feeder work cost error report to determine how his loading and handling of ingredients are affecting the bottom line. The right of amount of each ingredient must be fed every time, especially with today's high feed costs.
Check mix time by date and batch of feed prepared. *Feeders must be able to focus on loading and mixing without distraction.
Review the feeder drop error which should be less than 0.5 percent error per pen.

2. Attention to Details

Ability to identify TMR variations between days or within pens before herd health and milk production suffer.
Alert to changes in cow feeding behavior or manure consistency.
Keep feed, commodity, and forage storage areas clean and organized.
Maintain all equipment in excellent condition.

3. Consistency

Keep feed starting time and pen feeding order the same. Aim for plus or minus 5 minutes variation.
Mixing times should always be the same - check mixing time per load on reports.
The feed delivered should be the same as that on the nutritionist's feeding program.
Push up feed at the same time and same number of times each day.

Click here to read the full article!

Source: "Three key drivers of feeding success" article by Felix Soriano. Hoard's Dairyman, April 10, 2011 issue.

"A Look Ahead for Dairy Farms in 2011"

2011-06-01T14:58:00.001-05:00

Mike Hutjens
University of Illinois

Midwest dairy managers continue catching up economically after a disastrous 2009 and 2010 business year, said Mike Hutjens, University of Illinois professor of animal sciences emeritus.

"Illinois milk producers need $17.00 per 100 pounds to cover feed, variable, fix, and labor costs with a modest return on assets," Hutjens said. "Currently, milk prices have been favorable, but dairy managers need a full year of these margins to replace lost equity in 2009-2010."

Several factors will be critical to maintain a successful 2011 dairy business model.

Hutjens said milk prices will depend on supply and demand with more than 13 percent of current U.S. milk solids being exported. World demand is important to keep supply and demand balanced, which may be impacted by the financial problems in some European countries and unrest in the Mideast.

"Corn price will also impact profit margin," he said. "Late planting of corn in the Midwest, flooding along major rivers such as the Mississippi, and drought in the Southwest will impact corn and feed price. Higher corn prices will raise the price of corn silage, forages and by-product feeds."

Energy costs (price of oil) will impact fertilizer, fuel, and energy costs, he said.

In order to overcome these challenges, Hutjens said dairy managers will need to focus on areas that they directly control on their dairy farms. Milk price, corn price, and oil prices are not controlled by the dairy manager.

Hutjens suggested the following factors will be important for midwestern dairy farms to maintain a profit this year.

1. Keep total feed cost per 100 pounds of milk less than $7.00 per cwt (for lactating cows, not dry cows and replacement heifers).

2. Forage quality will be critical to reduce purchased feed costs. Alfalfa/grass forage should be more than 150 relative forage quality (RFQ), high yield per acre, and more than 20 percent crude protein. Corn silage should be more than 30 percent starch, high in dry matter yield per acre, and more than 55 percent neutral detergent fiber digestibility.

3. Feed inventory should be calculated, planned and/or stored to meet 2011-2012 herd needs. If more acres of corn silage or a summer annual are needed, make that decision now.

4. By-product feeds can be an excellent source of economic feed nutrients. If you can purchase these feeds below the breakeven price, it is cheaper than nutrients provided by shelled corn, soybean meal, and fat/oil.

5. Maintaining high milk yield results in more income, potential profit, and feed efficiency. The following guidelines can be used to evaluate a dairy herd.
-- Feed cost per pound of dry matter under 12 cents
-- Feed efficiency more than 1.4 pounds of milk at 3.5 percent fat per pound of dry matter consumed
-- Income over feed costs greater than $10.00 per cwt

6. High premiums for milk with higher milk protein and fat content and lower somatic cell counts can add 50 cents to $1.50 per cwt.

7. Getting cows pregnant will maintain milk production as cows remain at higher levels of milk yield (target an average 170 days in milk).

"June is Dairy Month," Hutjens reminded producers. "It's an opportunity for dairy managers to promote the importance of milk production, the nutritional value of dairy products, and the economic impact dairy farms have on the Midwest's economy."

Source: University of Illinois Extension

Putting Big Bale Storage Losses Into Perspective

2011-05-25T14:08:00.022-05:00

Harvesting baled hay is hard work...not to mention all of the fuel, equipment, labor, and seed expenses it rings up. Then comes the time and expense of hauling all the bales to storage. Now imagine going through your stored big hay bales and discarding one out of every ten of them. This idea may not be as unrealistic (or crazy) as you think.

In his article "Big bale storage losses," Craig Saxe takes a look at the impact inadequate bale storage can have on hay quantities and qualities. Saxe helps put storage loss into perspective by providing this simple scenario: A producer stores his hay outside and experiences a storage loss of 10 percent. Although this may sound like a fairy reasonable percentage, it means that for every ten bales of hay harvested, there is only the equivalent of nine bales to feed.

With all of the bale storage options out there, how do you pick the best one for your operation? Well, one factor to consider is dry matter loss which is ultimately determined by hay moisture, temperature, and length of time hay is exposed to these conditions.

Here are some practices that can help minimize dry matter loss during big bale storage:

Store bales on the best well-drained surface at your disposal.
Avoid contact with moist soil, elevating bales when possible.
Stack round bales end to end.
Do not stack unprotected bales.
Choose net wrapping instead of twine.
Place bales in a sunny area where runoff passes between rows.
If storing unprotected, strive to make larger-sized bales.

In addition to dry matter, there are many other factors that should be considered when selecting a storage method. These factors include labor and machinery costs as well as the locations of hay fields, storage sites, and feeding sites.

According to Saxe, there is no single "best" storage method across the board. It probably goes without saying that stored bales benefit from some type of protection. Beyond that, individual farms should analyze each storage option to determine which one is the best fit for their operation. To help calculate round bale storage costs, reference the "Cost of Storage Spreadsheet Documentation" at the University of Wisconsin-Extension's website.

Source: "Big bale storage losses" article by Craig Saxe. Progressive Forage Grower, April 1, 2011, Vol. 12 Issue 4.

GOT BIG BALES? GET VERTICAL WITH PATZ!

SEEING IS BELIEVING! Click on the YouTube video below to see a Patz Vertical Mixer in action!

"Forage losses=Economic losses"

2011-05-17T13:18:00.006-05:00

With high feed prices, minimizing forage losses is of great importance to an operation's bottom line. Forage losses not only decrease available feed, but since most losses are the most nutritious parts of the plant, they also reduce feed quality. Therefore, both reduced quantity and reduced quality contribute to an economic loss.

In a recent issue of Progressive Forage Grower, Dennis Buckmaster presented several tips for reducing forage losses in these three categories: harvest, storage, and feeding losses.

Harvest

The decision to begin harvest always carries risks and should be based on both date and weather. To avoid overmature forage and future missed cuttings, Buckmaster suggests mowing when there is little chance of rain. However, one must be willing to take the risk of possible weather-related forage loss.
Rake when moisture content is near 40%. Rake as few times and as slowly as possible.
Bale when moisture content is near 18%.
Chop when moisture content is near 65% for concrete tower silos, 70% for bunker silos, and 55% for steel tower silos.

Storage

Loss ranges from 8-20%, depending on type/condition of structure, moisture content, duration of storage, etc.

Patz A1™ SERIES II Single Auger Silo Unloaders
help preserve moisture content & silage quality.

Maintain tower silos in good condition with tight-fitting doors and good sealant.
Fill silos quickly.
Store round bales inside or under a cover and off the ground.
Pack bunker silos well and cover them.

Feeding

Implement smart feeding practices.
Utilize properly designed feedbunks and do not overfill them.
Check the floor/ground near your feedbunk or feeding stations for feed waste. Adjust practices accordingly to minimize waste.

Click on the source link below to read the full article!

Source: "Forage losses=Economic losses" article by Dennis R. Buckmaster. Progressive Forage Grower, April 1, 2011 issue. Vol. 12, Issue 4.

Frozen Silage & Hard-Packed Feeds Have Just Met Their Match!

Install a Patz Silo Unloader for performance you can count

on in all seasons.

Single auger, surface drive, & ring drive silo unloaders available!

"Making hay while the sun shines: Quality, stage of maturity"

2011-05-12T11:00:00.001-05:00

Can you identify this forage? Here are your clues: First, it can be stored for long periods with little nutrient loss if protected from weather. Second, it can provide the majority of required nutrients for livestock. Third, it can be produced and fed in small to large amounts.

If you answered hay, you are correct! Due to its great versatility, it is the most common feed stored on most farms. In its April 1, 2011 issue, Progressive Forage Grower featured an article discussing the multitude of factors that influence forage quality. Written by Garry Lacefield, the article defines forage quality as "the extent to which a forage has the potential to produce a desired animal response."

Using this definition, Lacefield identified the following as factors that influence forage quality:

Palatability. As animals base their forage preference on smell, feel, and taste, there are many elements that influence palatability (i.e. texture, leafiness, moisture, etc.).
Intake. With higher palatability and forage quality comes higher intake.
Digestibility. Varies greatly. Leafy plant tissues are considerably more digestible than mature, stemmy materials (80-90% vs. less than 50%).
Nutrient Content. The forage must maintain an acceptable level of nutrients after digestion.
Anti-quality factors. The presence of dangerous compounds can lower performance, cause illness or death.
Curing & Handling Conditions - "Save the Leaves!" Both rain and sunlight can reduce hay quality by decreasing nutrient content and causing leaf loss. The key to minimizing leaf loss is raking or tedding while hay is at about 40% moisture and baling before hay is below 15% moisture. Tip: To help decrease drying time while still preserving leaves and nutrient content, crush stems (condition) at the time of mowing.
MOST IMPORTANT! Stage of maturity when harvested. The best time to harvest is when the plants are transitioning from the vegetative (leafy) to the reproductive (flower-seed) stage. As this transition progresses, legumes and grasses grow higher in fiber and lignin content while losing protein content, digestibility, and palatability. An early first hay cut means aftermath growth begins when temperature and soil moisture are more conducive to plant growth and, in effect, tends to increase total yield per acre.

Throughout the haymaking process, two important phrases to remember are "save the leaves" and "control the controllable," according to Lacefield. Following these two principles will help farmers meet the ultimate goal of haymaking season: "to produce for yield, harvest for quality and market for profit."

Source: "Making hay while the sun shines: Quality, stage of maturity" article by Garry D. Lacefield. Progressive Forage Grower, April 1, 2011 issue. Vol. 12, Issue 4.

Process your high-quality hay with a Patz Vertical Mixer
for a thorough, palatable TMR that cows love!

Don't just take our word for it - here's what your neighbors are saying about their Patz Vertical Mixers:

"We were surprised with the change in the dry cows. The ability to add hay to their ration had them eating better. They got back into the flow quickly after freshening and were milking better right away." J.S., IN

"The cows made the decision (to buy a Patz Mixer). The cows like the feed better. They eat more and there is less sorting." S.S., WI

Click here to read more Customer Success Stories!

SEEING IS BELIEVING!

Ask your local Patz Dealer for a demo!

Feeding Efficiency Key to Profitability

2011-05-05T14:52:00.003-05:00

Beef producers are being paid more for steers than ever before. However, with rising input costs, profitability is not as big as it was ten years ago. In a recent Agri-View online article, Jeffrey Hoffelt discusses the merit of assessing the cost of gain in a feedlot to help decrease input costs and increase profitability.

Due to its unpredictability, the price paid for cattle should not be a beef producer's focus for increasing profitability. According to Amy Radunz, UW-Extension Beef Specialist, the focus should be placed on decreasing input costs in areas that producers have control over, such as:

Cost of feed
Weight of and price paid for incoming cattle
Feeding efficiency and nutrition management
Regular evaluations of herd health and mortality rates

Radunz emphasized that average daily gain actually has very little impact on profitability. With current high feed costs and the potential for heavy-weight discounts, keeping steers on feed longer to obtain high hundredweight prices could actually decrease net return.

Feeding efficiency is what ultimately ensures profits. This is accomplished by reaching the most pounds gained on the least expensive feedstuffs.

The UW-Extension's "Feedlot Cost of Gain Assessment" table is a valuable tool for performing a self-evaluation of a feedlot. Fifteen questions are listed with three possible answers, each reflecting a high, average, or low cost of gain.

Here are a few examples of these questions with their "Low Cost of Gain" answers:

When do you determine the ingredients in your ration? Throughout the year to determine costs and select least cost rations.
What is the source of most of your feed? Mostly home-grown.
What equipment do you have for feeding your cattle: Tractor, feeder/mixer wagon to feed a totally mixed ration.

Source: "Increased profitability begins with cost of gain assessment." agriview.com. Agri-View, Jeffrey Hoffelt. Web. 3 March 2011.

Lower input costs & raise your bottom line with a Patz Vertical Mixer!

Process a variety of ingredients, including alternative feeds!
Mix & discharge fast with superior cleanout - save time, fuel, & feed!
Produce a consistent TMR, regardless of batch size!

Visit www.patzcorp.com for more information
on the complete Patz Vertical Mixer Series!

"It does a great job processing all of my ingredients..."

2011-04-27T06:44:00.019-05:00

Patz equipment has been an important part of Golden Ridge Dairy's operation ever since installing their first Patz Barn Cleaner in 1950. Over the past sixty years, the dairy has added a Patz manure pump, material mover, silo unloader, belt feeders, and vertical mixer to meet their feed and manure handling needs.

Chad Denowski of Golden Ridge Dairy

Located in Beaver, WI, Golden Ridge Dairy remains a family-run business. Second and third generation farmers, David & Sheila Denowski and their son Chad currently own and operate the dairy. Chad's sister and her husband, Tracy & Zach Zaidel, are also actively involved in the business.

Two months ago, Chad started feeding their 450 dairy cows and 350 heifers with a 615 cu. ft. 1200 Series Trailer Single Screw Vertical Mixer. Today he reports that this new mixer is providing significant savings and benefits for his operation.

Pizza crusts are loaded and
processed with ease.

One of the benefits of feeding with a Patz Vertical Mixer is the flexibility to use a wide variety of feed ingredients and less expensive alternatives. "It (1200 Series) does a great job processing all of my ingredients, including round bales & alternative energy sources -- pizza crusts, dried whey, and beet pulp," Chad stated.

Whether he is mixing a 2,000 lb. batch for his steam up group or a large 17,000 lb. batch, Chad knows his herd will be getting a thorough, consistent TMR. Chad said, "The new (Vortex™) Screw mixes fast and is very consistent. The ration is very well mixed in a shorter period of time." In addition to nutritious rations, he values the time and fuel savings he experiences with the fast mixing speed.

Chad also had good things to say about these optional features currently available for 1200 Series Trailer Vertical Mixers:

Conveyor discharge: "I like the ability to weigh feed on the conveyor discharge because I can be more exact when feeding rations."
Dual kicker: "The extra kickout on the screw provides a more consistent, level pile in the free stall when discharging."
dinamica generale® electronic scale: "It's simple to operate. Plus the bright LCD (display) is easy-to-read."

After experiencing the benefits of a Patz 1200 Series Vertical Mixer, Golden Ridge Dairy is pleased to continue their sixty-year long tradition of success with Patz equipment.

Seeing is Believing!

Visit our website to read more Customer Success Stories!

The complete Patz Vertical Mixer Series features units and sizes to match every operation!

Choose from trailer, stationary, and truck mounted units with mixing capacities of 140-1,580 cu. ft.!

Forage management practices yield huge dividends!

2011-04-15T07:11:00.004-05:00

With today's rising commodity costs, preserving silage quality and implementing the best forage storing practices are high priorities. Now is the time to start developing a plan with set goals for this year's crop.

In a recent issue of Progressive Dairyman, Shawn P. Ryan considers several elements that should be taken into account when devising your plan: employee training and education, visual quality checks, dry matter testing, and proper face management.

1. Training and education
Ongoing training and education on techniques and forage management practices should be in place for all employees, new and seasoned. This continual training is particularly important for entry-level positions due to higher turnover rates. Explaining the importance of and science behind tasks encourages employees to follow procedure. The learning process should never stop - keep up with new storage technologies and practices by attending feeding conferences, reading industry publications, etc.

2. Visual quality check
During feedout of the bunker/pile, forage quality should be visually evaluated at least once daily. If any damage from rodents, birds, or other vermin is discovered, seal holes with repair tape. Also inspect weights for plastic displacement resulting from silage settling over time. When necessary, reposition weights to secure proper sealing. These tasks will stop oxygen from catalyzing spoilage, thus preventing additional feed expenses.

3. Weekly dry matter testing
By testing silage/haylage dry matter content weekly, producers can regularly evaluate forage quality, uncover hot spots, and identify ineffective feedout practices. This allows them to balance rations more accurately and make adjustments as needed. The goal of every operation is a greater net profit, and weekly monitoring helps producers track the impact that feed composition and quality have on milk production.

4. Proper face management
To help preserve silage quality during feedout, Ryan recommends using a shaver daily to remove at least 6 inches in colder months and at least 12 inches in warmer months. Bringing in an outside consultant for a face management evaluation provides a checkpoint for future alterations. This evaluation could also bring safety hazards to light, prompting proper actions and/or precautions to be taken.

As most producers are already facing time constraints, implementing additional practices may seem overwhelming. However, making the effort now may pay off big in the long run. Ryan writes, "Executing these management practices during the off-season may cost producers extra time up front, but in the end, pays huge dividends."

Source: "Off-season: Evaluate your silage quality, bunker performance" article by Shawn P. Ryan. Progressive Dairyman, February 8, 2011 issue.

NEW 2400 Series II Vertical Mixers Raise Mixing Efficiency to New Heights!

2011-04-07T11:30:00.005-05:00

Building on the features and options of the Model 2400, the NEW 2400 Series II Twin Screw Trailer & Stationary Vertical Mixers deliver an even higher level of performance! Available in 810 and 950 cu. ft. sizes, these new mixers are only 98" and 106 3/4" in height! With the ability to handle small to large batches, the 2400 Series II provides mixing capacities of up to 1,100 cubic feet!

2400 Series II mixers offer the flexibility to use a variety of ingredients, including alternative feeds. Featuring new cupped flighting, the Patz Vortex™ Screw promotes fast blending of a consistent TMR without damaging feed. Patented baffles quickly and gently direct ingredients around both screws from end to end, producing a thorough, high quality ration regardless of batch size.

The consistent, palatable TMR reduces sorting so cows eat better, resulting in increased productivity and rate of gain. Combined with greater ration options and less refusals, a quick discharge with superior cleanout saves time and fuel while reducing feed waste.

Patz 2400 Series II Trailer & Stationary Vertical Mixers are engineered with few moving parts for long life, low maintenance, and trouble-free operation. To ensure accurate weighing of ingredients, a wide selection of reliable indicators is available, including dinamica generale®, Weigh-Tronix®, and Digi-Star® models.

Customize a Patz 2400 Series II Mixer to match your operation!

Options include: multiple door locations (rear commodity available), various discharge packages, optional side extensions for added mixing capacity, and more!

Feed More Efficiently, Gain Extra $avings!

Contact your local Patz Mixer Dealer or visit www.patzcorp.com
to find out how a Patz 2400 Series II Vertical Mixer
will benefit your bottom line!

New 1200 Series Stationary Vertical Mixer! Flexible, Efficient, Consistent.

2011-03-16T09:29:00.002-05:00

The NEW Patz 1200 Series Stationary Single Screw Vertical Mixer delivers superior performance you can count on! Designed low in height, this mixer provides the flexibility of use in feed rooms and other enclosures. Offering 300-690 cu. ft. mixing capacities, the 1200 Series Stationary is available in 300, 420, 500, and 615 cu. ft. sizes.

Featuring the new Vortex™ Screw, this mixer series processes a variety of feed ingredients, including less expensive alternatives. Regardless of batch size, the Vortex™ Screw mixes quickly, producing a thorough, consistent TMR without damaging feed.

The well-blended ration discourages sorting so cows eat better, resulting in increased productivity and rate of gain. Combined with greater ration options and less refusals, a quick discharge with superior cleanout reduces waste and lowers feed costs.

The Patz 1200 Series Stationary Vertical Mixer is simple in design with few moving parts for long life, low-maintenance, and trouble-free operation. It is also energy-efficient with a low minimum 30 HP requirement. To ensure accurate weighing of ingredients, several electronic scale systems are available.

With superior mixing performance and operation flexibility, the Patz 1200 Series Stationary Single Screw Vertical Mixer delivers great results in a wide variety of applications! Dairy producers, heifer growers, beef raisers, sheep ranchers, goat producers (and more!) can count on this mixer for a thorough, consistent TMR. For fast, thorough blending of materials, additional applications include: composting, plastics recycling, colored mulch, poultry litter, and sustainable farming practices.

Put a Patz 1200 Series Stationary Single Screw Vertical Mixer to work for you!

Visit www.patzcorp.com to find out how a Patz Vertical Mixer will benefit your operation!

Join Us in Celebrating National Ag Day!

2011-03-11T09:39:00.012-06:00

From elementary schools to the White House, millions of Americans will be celebrating National Ag Day on March 15^th to recognize the great contributions our farmers and ranchers make to our country and to our everyday lives. Providing $4.7 trillion to our gross domestic product annually, agriculture is one of the strongest sectors of the US economy. 308 million Americans and 6 billion others from around the world rely on our nation’s 2.2 million farmers and ranchers to help meet their food, fiber, and renewable resource needs.

Throughout agriculture’s rich history, a strong work ethic, dedication, and passion have characterized the American farmer. In our current economy, these qualities have become even more apparent as farmers face many difficult challenges and decisions. Rising feed and fuel prices increase input costs while prices for milk and other commodities continue to be unpredictable.

Our volatile market conditions present risks that make it necessary for today’s farmers to wear many different hats – producer, businessman, economist, and investor, to name a few. There is more pressure than ever before to be highly productive, sustainable, environmentally conscious, and on top of the latest scientific developments for the highest quality end products.

With all of these responsibilities, time is a valuable commodity. Producers need time for family and friends while still maintaining a profitable business.

Farmers around the world count on Patz for efficient, reliable, quality feed handling equipment. They know that their herd is consuming a thorough, consistent TMR for ultimate herd health and production while they enjoy time, fuel, and feed savings.

Count on Patz Vertical Mixers to deliver these great results:

Process a variety of feed ingredients, including less expensive alternatives - reduce feed costs!
Fast mixing and fast discharge with superior cleanout – save time and fuel while reducing feed waste!
Consistent TMR from start to finish, regardless of batch size!
Cows eat better and sort less – increase productivity and rate of gain!

Click here to view the full Patz Vertical Mixer Series, including Trailer, Stationary, & Truck Mount units with mixing capacities from 140-1,580 cubic feet!

Redefining Proven Performance: the NEW 1200 Series Trailer Vertical Mixer!

2011-03-03T09:59:00.001-06:00

Count on the new 1200 Series Trailer Single Screw Vertical Mixer for mixing performance you can bank on! Choose from 300, 420, 500, and 615 cu. ft. sizes with mixing capacities up to 690 cu. ft. Designed for easy loading, the 300 and 420 sizes are only 96" in height!

The 1200 Series produces a thorough, consistent TMR using a variety of ingredients, including less expensive alternatives. The new Vortex™ Screw mixes quickly without compromising feed quality, regardless of batch size! Cows eat better and sort less, resulting in increased productivity and rate of gain. Combined with greater ration options and less refusals, a quick discharge with superior cleanout saves fuel, reduces waste, and lowers feed costs.

The Patz 1200 Series Trailer Vertical Mixer features many customization options, including:

Multiple door locations, including rear commodity door.
Choice of various discharge packages.
Tub mounted front discharge conveyor available for accurate records.
Wide selection of indicators: dinamica generale®, Weigh-Tronix® and Digi-Star® models available.
Rubber side extensions provide additional mixing capacity.
Optional indicator extension arm, battery mount, hour meter, ladder and more!

Feed your herd without eating up your budget!

Find out more about how the Patz 1200 Series Trailer Single Screw Vertical Mixer can add to your bottom line!

Considering Alternative Carbs for Your Dairy Ration?

2011-02-24T14:24:00.014-06:00

The traditional recipe for a nutritious dairy ration features corn as the main source of energy. With high corn prices, many producers are finding this dish increasingly costly to serve. In a recent issue of Progressive Dairyman, Dr. Tim Snyder reveals that corn is not the only ingredient that will help keep your herd healthy and high producing. He proposes that there are multiple carbohydrate fractions and sources that should be considered when formulating a ration that will benefit income over feed cost (IOFC).

In 2008, researchers conducted a trial to see how two alternative carbohydrates, beet pulp and wheat midds, would fare as corn substitutes in a dairy ration. Cows were fed three different rations, each providing the same fermentable carbohydrate total (40% under CPM guidelines). However, the carbohydrate source was varied with rations containing 18 percent, 21 percent, or 25 percent total starch (3 percent, 10 percent, or 17 percent corn in ration DM). Results indicated no significant difference in milk production, components, or feed efficiency. The substitutes proved effective in meeting the total fermentable carbohydrate needs.

When it comes to selecting a corn “substitute,” the options are seemingly endless: corn gluten feed, bakery, candy byproduct, rice cakes, sprouts, molasses, whey, chips, granola, beet or citrus pulp, and the list goes on. However, not all alternative carbohydrates are created equal. Ingredients vary in starch content and fermentability, soluble fiber, sugar, digestibility, etc. Current pricing is another variable that needs to be considered.

Using less expensive feed ingredients can help increase IOFC, as long as the new ration formulation continues to provide adequate nutrition. To accurately formulate a ration with carbohydrate substitutes, Dr. Snyder recommends feedstuffs be analyzed at a reputable laboratory.

Read the full article by clicking on the source link below:
"Evaluate rations to get the most IOFC with higher-priced corn" article by Dr. Tim Snyder. Progressive Dairyman, February 8, 2011 issue.

Rations large or small, Patz Vertical Mixers
Can Handle It All!

Count on Patz Vertical Mixers to Quickly Mix, Deliver, & Serve Your Ration!

Process a variety of feed ingredients, including less expensive alternatives - reduce feed costs!
Thorough, consistent TMR reduces sorting - increases productivity and rate of gain!
Fast discharge with superior cleanout – saves time and fuel while reducing feed waste!

And the Employee-of-the-Year Award Goes to...Your Herd!

2011-02-10T08:26:00.004-06:00

Volatile employer/employee relationships and poor working conditions would negatively impact morale, productivity, & job performance in any workplace. In a recent issue of Progressive Dairyman, Chuck Schwartau reports that negative handling techniques may have similar effects on a dairy’s most important employees – the cows.

Several studies have investigated the influence handling techniques have on cow behavior, health, and productivity. Although there have not been any concrete correlations made, studies suggest that aggressive (negative) handling may very well decrease productivity and breeding response.

When hiring new “human employees," it is important to evaluate their attitudes toward animals and to determine why they are interested in working on a dairy farm. Studies found that employees who implemented negative handling techniques were less interested in livestock and/or had an aversion to animals. Those that do care about cows would likely be more observant of health issues or variances in milk production within the herd.

Assuming that cows can sense rough handlers, negative handling could affect how cows enter the parlor, respond to milking preparation, and how quickly they let down their milk. To help improve handling techniques, Schwartau suggests developing an employee training program with an emphasis on how their interactions with the cows can affect productivity and the dairy's bottom line.

The National Milk Harvesting Centre of Victoria, Australia suggests the following 7 strategies for creating a calmer atmosphere that aids in cow cooperation and encourages milk letdown:

Reduce excessive noise.
Replace negative interactions (i.e. prods, sticks) with positive ones (i.e. soft voice, gentle taps).
Evaluate cow-handling habits and discontinue any actions that may create fear.
Perform any necessary negative or painful procedures away from the parlor whenever possible.
Screen off unfamiliar procedures with solid panels.
Maintain a consistent dairy routine and give cows time to adjust to any changes.
Move cows in groups instead of individually to help decrease fear when handling.

Schwartau writes that although these procedures do not guarantee greater profits, at the very least, they can help make cows easier to handle and decrease stress in the workplace.

Read the complete article by clicking on the source link below:

Source: “Interactions with your most important employees: The cows” article by Chuck Schwartau. Progressive Dairyman, February 8, 2011 issue.

"You want your girls to be comfortable. The better care you take of them, the better they take of you. Keeping fresh bedding under them every day gives them more comfort. It’s a no-brainer – after our first Patz chopper, we’ll never go back to another brand again.”

--Wayne Nummerdor, WI

Patz has the feed & manure handling equipment
you need to take care of your cows!

"What can manure tell you about the ration?"

2011-01-26T10:12:00.002-06:00

"What goes in must come out." To determine the nutritional value of a ration, feed analysis is important before and after digestion. In a recent issue of Progressive Dairyman, Karen Lee recaps a presentation on this subject given by Mike Hutjens, dairy specialist, at the Four-State Dairy Nutrition Conference in Dubuque, Iowa. Hutjens discussed three methods for manure analysis used to evaluate the nutritional status of a herd, one being manure consistency scoring.

Consistency scoring can be used to help analyze the ration and the digestive health of each cow. This method entails visually scoring manure consistency for approximately 10-15 cows per pen. Hutjens emphasizes that each cow's number be recorded with her score in case it varies from the rest of the herd. In that case, additional analyses can be performed to identify any potential health problems.

This five-point scale was developed in Michigan and should be the basis for scoring:

Manure has consistency of pea soup (includes cows with diarrhea). Excess protein, starch, mineral or lack of fiber could be factors. Excess urea in the hindgut could also be drawing water into the manure.
Manure is runny, measures less than 1” in height, and splatters on ground/concrete. Cows on lush pasture or those with low fiber diets may have this score.
Optimal score. Manure is porridge-like, creates 1.5-2” stack, has several concentric rings with small depression in middle, and plops when hits ground/concrete.
Thicker manure, stacking up over 2”. Dry cows and older heifers could have this score, possibly resulting from low-quality forages and/or protein shortage.
Manure appears as “firm fecal balls.” Straw-based diet, digestive blockage, or dehydration could lead to this type of manure.

Scores of 1 or 5 may indicate a need to rebalance the ration and/or consider additional health problems. Note that scores can shift with lactation stage (see “Table 1” based on limited work by

University of Illinois).

What causes manure scores to decline?

Increasing the amount of protein and/or starch, decreasing fiber and/or grain particle size, and consuming excess minerals can lead to a decline in manure scores.

In addition to careful feed analysis, taking a look at your herd's manure may prove a valuable tool when analyzing your ration and herd health.

To read the complete article, click on the source link below:
Source: "What can manure tell you about the ration?" article by
Karen Lee. Progressive Dairyman, July 1, 2010 issue.

What Goes In Must Come Out!

Patz has a full line of feed and manure handling equipment
to meet your needs!

Accurate Ration Prep Reduces Waste, Saves $$

2011-01-18T09:41:00.032-06:00

Carl Hunter, Sunnyhill Acres
Northfield, MN

"They like the ration and can't sort through it. I don't have to clean the bunks. The condition on the cattle is perfect on a cheaper ration, and I don't have waste.”

These statements were made by Carl Hunter, heifer raiser, after purchasing his Patz Model 1100 Vertical Mixer. Like many in the ag industry, Carl was frustrated with the high refusal rate and feed waste he had been experiencing with his previous feeding method. So, after trying various brands of mixers, he chose Patz and has seen great results.

Patz Vertical Mixers deliver a consistent, thorough Total Mixed Ration that cows love. Plus, they provide superior cleanout, further reducing waste. Since feeding with his Patz, Carl reports improved herd health, less refusals, and decreased feed costs.

As Carl knows, feeding strategy plays an important role in determining intakes and refusals. With high feed costs, it is no surprise that refusal and waste are hot topics among producers. According to Bill Stone, D.V.M., each dry matter percentage point of refusals costs approximately $20.00 per cow annually.

In a recent issue of Hoard’s Dairyman, Stone presents steps that producers can take to increase intakes and decrease refusals in their operation. He also suggests more economical ways to handle refusals than just adding them to the manure pile.

As Stone emphasizes, accurate ration preparation plays a large role in stabilizing intakes and reducing refusals. To determine what defines “accurate ration preparation,” he compares feeding strategies for two groups of cows. The first group had intakes and refusals averaging 57 pounds and 3 %, respectively, while the second averaged 57 pounds and 0.5%. Why the disparity in refusal rates? It all seems to come down to ration preparation.

Patz Mixers create a tasty TMR that
cows love - they'll lick the alley clean!

The first dairy removed forages from the bunker with a defacer
and pushed them into a pile prior to feeding. The second dairy removed the forages at the beginning of the day, mixed them briefly in a mixer truck, and then transported the feed to a location near the commodity shed. In addition to providing better load preparation, the second procedure produced a consistent ration from loader bucket to loader bucket.

Taking these dairies and a beef research trial into account, Stone reports that planning for a relatively high rate of refusal so that cows won't ever run out of feed is not necessarily the best feeding strategy. He states that perceived fluctuations in pen intake are most often due to variations in the feed or feeding method, i.e. forage moisture changes, feed not properly distributed, etc.

Stone's research led him to compile the following list of habits/routines that support accurate ration preparation:

Proper collection of forage samples for analysis.
Clear understanding of dry matter concept.
Accurate preparation of feed identified as beneficial to operation.
Goal for refusal percentages and set program for feeding adjustments based on refusal amount.
Plan for handling refusals.

Instead of adding refusals to the manure pile (costing as much as $100/cow/year), he proposes feeding refusals to late-lactation groups. Stone stipulates that refusals must be monitored closely and discarded if they heat, spoil, or are low quality. The refusals from this group should be discarded daily or fed to a “low impact” group (i.e. steers, bred heifers). He notes that refusals should never be fed to pre-fresh or fresh cows. In addition, due to dietary concerns, refusals may not be appropriate for young heifers, older heifers, and dry cows.

Read the full version of this article by clicking on the source link below.

Source: "Why feeding strategy is so important" article by Bill Stone, D.V.M. Hoard's Dairyman, December 2010 issue.

“Living with today’s corn costs and milk prices”

2010-12-29T08:29:00.005-06:00

In their December 2010 issue, Hoard’s Dairyman announced a new webinar series to be broadcasted every second Monday of each month, beginning January 10, 2011. Here are a few reasons to watch these one-hour webinars:

They’re FREE! No course or registration fees!
Watch from the comfort of your home or office – no driving time or fuel expenses!
Conveniently take place at 12:00 p.m. (CST). View during your lunch break!

Each interactive webinar will feature nationally known presenters, discussing timely issues and challenges faced by dairy producers. A wide range of topics will be covered, including input costs, finance, nutrition, milk quality, herd management, and milk marketing and dairy policy plans. During the webinar, viewers can type questions directly to the presenter, allowing everyone to benefit from the responses.

The webinar series will be hosted by award-winning educator, Mike Hutjens. Named the 2008 Industry Person of the Year, Hutjens has contributed articles to top agricultural publications, scientific journals, and seminars around the world. He will also be presenting the first webinar, titled “Living with today’s corn costs and milk prices.”

Don’t miss out on this amazing FREE opportunity! Sign up today!
Go to www.hoards.com/webinars and click on the registration link. After signing up, you’ll receive emailed reminders with webinar dates and times!

Source: Hoard’s Dairyman, December 2010 issue

TMR Audits Reveal What Could be Standing Between You & the Perfect Mix

2010-12-21T16:04:00.056-06:00

These cows can't get enough of the thorough,

consistent TMR Patz Vertical Mixers provide!

As every ag producer knows, feeding a thorough, consistent TMR is essential to maintaining a healthy herd and a high level of production. Nutritionists provide the "paper" recipe for a herd's ideal ration, but more often than not, the actual ration fed is not that "ideal" mix. Jim Dickrell of Dairy Today explored this discrepancy in an interview with Dr. Tom Oelberg, field technical services specialist.

Over the past several years, Oelberg has conducted 80 on-farm TMR audits to help producers improve TMR consistency and feeding efficiency. Each audit requires that he carefully observe the feeding process, paying particular attention to the condition of the mixer, mixing order, and mixing time. Ten feed samples from the load are run through a Penn State shaker box. According to Oelberg, ration consistencies with variations over 5% indicate some mixing issues while variations over 7% indicate serious problems.

Throughout his TMR audits, Oelberg identified the following as major contributors to mixing problems:

Mixer overfilling. Fill vertical mixers to 75-90% of struck volume (at least to top of screws).
Worn mixer parts. Perform regular mixer maintenance, replacing worn parts as needed.
Not mixing long enough. Resist the urge to cut mixing time short.
Improper loading of liquids. Load liquids in the middle for vertical mixers.

Based on his observations and shaker box tests, Oelberg has adjusted the mixing process for each farm he has audited, and producers have seen impressive results. Milk responses of 1-2 lbs/cow/day are common, and some have reported 0.2-0.4 percentage point increases in butterfat!

Source: "Audit Your TMR" article by Jim Dickrell. Dairy Today, November 2010 issue.

Are you feeding your herd a thorough, consistent TMR?
Take the "Candy Test" to find out!

Largest Mixer Reaches 100 Grand!

2010-12-09T15:51:00.003-06:00

Nearly two years ago, we announced that the Patz Marketing Channel on YouTube had reached a new milestone, with viewers having downloaded our product videos over 100,000 times. Since then, Patz product videos have continued to attract a large audience, and we have responded in-kind. Now the Patz Marketing Channel features nearly 40 videos and has experienced over 400,000 downloads!

In July of 2008, an on-farm demo of our largest Vertical Mixer, the Model 3600 Triple Screw, was added to the Patz video library. With a mixing capacity of 1,400-1,580 cu. ft., this impressive and powerful mixer understandably draws a lot of attention. So much so that it reached an amazing milestone all its own this month: "The Largest Patz Vertical TMR Feed Mixer" farm demo video has been downloaded over 100,000 times!

Thank you to all of our viewers who have made milestones like these possible.

For those that have not yet visited the Patz Marketing Channel, we invite you to do so now! Watch demos and informational videos on the complete Patz Vertical Mixer Series (140-1,580 cu. ft. mixing capacities), Silo Unloaders, Alley Scrapers, Bale/Bedding Choppers, and more in the comfort of your home or office! Click here to be re-directed to our YouTube page.

Sound Nutrition Program Key to Healthy Heifers

2010-11-11T13:38:00.009-06:00

All heifer raisers are working toward the same goal: to generate profits by introducing heifers into the milking string as soon as possible. But what differentiates a successful heifer raiser from an unsuccessful one?

Elliot Block, Animal Nutrition, Arm & Hammer, delved into this question in a recent issue of Progressive Dairyman. Heading straight to the experts, he asked three progressive producers and heifer raisers a series of questions to see how high-quality nutrition and management programs contribute to the long-term success of their operations.

Here are 4 important points that consistently appeared in their responses:

A sound nutrition program is absolutely essential for heifers to reach growth and breeding targets.
Feeding a high-quality, consistent ration directly affects the heifers' rates of gain and conception rates.
Close monitoring of growth rates, overcrowding, and general heifer health must be a high priority for management and a team of well-trained employees.

The quality of care provided to heifers from birth lays the foundation for their future health and milk production as cows.

Noteworthy statement by interviewee Darin Mann, third generation heifer raiser:

"Nutrition plays an extremely important part in the success of our heifers... Even with the financial setbacks we have experienced over the past 18 months, we know how important it is to maintain ration quality and consistency. If we reduce the feed quality for our heifers, they will not reach the growth and breeding targets that our producer customers expect."

Mix a thorough, consistent ration and improve your nutrition program with a Patz Vertical Mixer!

Source: "Heifer raising defines our success" article by Elliot Block. Progressive Dairyman Issue 12, August 11, 2010.