Dairy

 

The Manitoba Dairy Industry consists of approximately 240 producers with an average farm size of 190 cows. Raw milk shipments from dairy farms exceeds 414 million litres annually. All milk produced in Manitoba is processed within the province at eleven plants.

Find other information on financial assistance, environmental programs, animal health and on farm food safety.


Breeding and Reproduction

Quality genetics are fundamental to efficient milk production. The dairy industry has invested heavily in selection programs to consistently improve the yield of dairy cow breeds. Central to a nationwide herd improvement program has been the collection of numerous herd records from individual cows which, alongside trait classification, has produced herds with very high genetic merit. Canadian genetics are sought after worldwide not only for the high production traits but also for the feed conversion efficiency.

Manitoba Holsteins

Western Canadian Jersey Association 


Feeds and Nutrition

Feed is one of the largest operational costs on the average dairy. Dairy feeding programs have direct effects on production and growth as well as farm efficiency. Dairy rations are often complex as the nutritional requirements of the cow have to be balanced effectively against cost of purchased feed and additives while simultaneously keeping wastage to a minimum.

Forages and Fibre

 Feeding and Health

 Rations

 Vitamins, Minerals, Feed Additives and Water


Management

Dairy production requires many management strategies to ensure the production of high quality milk. Managing environment, herd structure and daily farm routine are crucial in sustaining production.

Cow comfort 


 

Animal Health and Welfare

Health management programs which address disease prevention and control are essential for dairy production. On farm investments in this area will improve the welfare of the animal and in addition, increase the profitability of the dairy operation.

Lameness in Dairy Cows


 

Other Links

Dairy Farmers of Manitoba