In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Jenna Byrne is joined by dairy nutritionist Steve Martin of DNMC Milk explore how feed management strategies vary across the U.S. — and what producers in every region can learn from one another. Drawing on his experience working with herds nationwide, Martin breaks down the practical differences between feeding cows in the North versus the South and why margin management matters regardless of milk price.

The conversation dives into how climate, forage availability, and regional feed resources shape rations, with a close look at heat stress, forage quality, and the growing role of byproducts in Southern dairies. Martin emphasizes the importance of consistency, precision, and adaptability, noting that while feed costs may rise and fall with milk prices, disciplined nutrition management is what ultimately protects margins.

Martin and Byrne also discuss how data, communication, and on-farm decision-making influence feed efficiency and cow performance across diverse production systems. From managing variability in forage supplies to adjusting rations for environmental stress, the episode highlights strategies that help dairies stay resilient in volatile markets.

Whether you’re feeding cows in a cold northern winter or a hot southern summer, this episode offers practical insights into sharpening the pencil on feed costs and building rations that support long-term profitability.

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