In this information-packed episode, hosts Bella and Douglas dive deep into strategic rumen buffer management during heat stress. They explain how this often-overlooked approach can deliver significant returns on investment while improving cow health and milk production. From understanding the basic science to implementing practical buffer protocols, this episode provides a comprehensive guide for dairy producers looking to maximize profits during challenging summer conditions.

## Topics Covered

Understanding Rumen Function

- The rumen as a "biological brewery" producing volatile fatty acids

- Optimal pH range (6.2-6.8) for rumen health

- How heat stress creates a "triple threat" to rumen stability

The Buffer Arsenal

- Sodium bicarbonate: The foundation buffer (0.8-1.2% DM)

- Potassium carbonate: The heat stress specialist (0.5-0.7% DM)

- Supporting cast: Calcium and magnesium compounds

- Buffer inclusion rates and application timing

DCAD Management

- Understanding Dietary Cation-Anion Difference

- Optimal DCAD levels during heat stress (+350-400 mEq/kg DM)

- Monitoring strategies using urine pH

Implementation Strategy

- Three-step implementation plan

- Importance of forage integration with buffer protocols

- Monitoring metrics for success

Future Technologies

- Rumen temperature monitoring systems

- Automated buffer delivery

- Next-generation buffer formulations

Consumer Marketing Opportunities

- Premium pricing potential through welfare improvements

- Consumer willingness to pay for comfort and welfare attributes

## Key Takeaways

1. Heat stress costs the U.S. dairy industry approximately $1.5 billion annually through reduced production and health impacts.

2. The "Triple Threat" of heat stress includes:

- Saliva production reduced by up to 40%

- Respiratory bicarbonate loss during panting

- Feed behavior changes toward less forage consumption

3. Optimal buffer protocol during heat stress combines:

- Sodium bicarbonate: 0.8-1.2% DM (1.6-2.4 lbs per cow daily)

- Potassium carbonate: 0.5-0.7% DM (1.0-1.4 kg per cow daily)

4. Three critical metrics to monitor:

- Rumen pH: Target 6.0-6.5

- Milk fat percentage: Target 3.8-4.2%

- Urine pH: Target 7.0-8.0

5. Buffer implementation delivers substantial ROI during heat stress through improved production and health, with potential returns significantly higher than many other dairy investments.

https://www.thebullvine.com/management/nutrition/the-3-5-million-buffer-bombshell-how-rumen-ph-management-is-revolutionizing-dairy-profits-in-2025/

In this episode, hosts Bella and Douglas explore the remarkable legacy of Canadian Holstein breeder Douglas Dunton, whose "breeding warm" philosophy and focus on maternal lines revolutionized dairy cattle genetics worldwide. Learn how Dunton's methodical linebreeding approach and emphasis on balanced traits created cow families that anchored legendary sires like Pawnee Farm Arlinda Chief and Round Oak Rag Apple Elevation - bulls whose genetics appear in virtually every modern Holstein pedigree today, nearly eight decades later.

## Episode Highlights

- [02:15] Dunton's journey from Shorthorns to Holstein breeding

- [08:20] The "breeding warm" philosophy explained

- [13:45] The four foundation females that changed Holstein history

- [22:30] Connections to legendary sires Chief and Elevation

- [29:10] Comparing Dunton's approach with Marc Comtois of Comestar

- [35:42] Applying Dunton's principles in today's genomic era

## Key Figures Mentioned

- Douglas Stewart Dunton - Canadian Holstein breeder whose maternal lines revolutionized the breed

- Ralph and Earl Dunton - Douglas's sons who continued the Glenvue legacy

- A.B.C. Inka May (EX) - Foundation female, dam of A.B.C. Reflection Sovereign

- Glenvue Nettie Jemima (EX-13*) - Extraordinary brood cow, dam of six Excellent offspring

- Glenvue Noelle Inka (EX-4) - Royal Winter Fair grand champion (1947)

- Glenvue Jean Inka B (VG-2) - Created maternal connection to Pawnee Farm Arlinda Chief

- Pawnee Farm Arlinda Chief (EX-GM) - One of the most influential Holstein sires in history

- Round Oak Rag Apple Elevation (EX-GM) - Transformational type improver

- Marc Comtois - Owner of Comestar Holsteins, contemporary maternal line master

- Comestar Laurie Sheik (VG-88 27*) - Foundation female of the Laurie Sheik family

## Memorable Quotes

- "It takes longer to breed type than production, but once you get type, it is not so difficult to get higher production." - Douglas Dunton

- "When asked about outcrossing, Dunton famously stated that he had tried an outcross bull only once, and while 'he didn't do much harm, neither did he do much good.'"

- "Is your breeding program building the maternal strength that will influence the breed for generations to come? That's the true measure of breeding success that Douglas Dunton's legacy challenges us to achieve."

Read the full article on Douglas Dunton's breeding philosophy at https://www.thebullvine.com/breeder-profiles/the-maternal-mastermind-how-douglas-duntons-breeding-philosophy-revolutionized-holstein-genetics/

In this cutting-edge episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas explore how machine learning and AI are revolutionizing reproductive management on dairy farms. Learn how these technologies are delivering unprecedented improvements in fertility while reducing hormone use, and discover practical steps for implementation that can dramatically improve your operation's bottom line.

Episode Highlights

The Current State of Reproductive Management

• 51% of dairy farms still rely primarily on visual observation for heat detection

• Visual observation misses more than half of all standing heats

• According to Ricardo Chebel (University of Florida), "Reproductive efficiency is a key driver on the economics of a farm"

• The impact of suboptimal reproductive performance is typically 30-50% higher than most farmers estimate

Economic Impact of Reproductive Inefficiency

• For a 500-cow operation, each additional day of average days open costs approximately $2,500 in lost profit

• Operations with days open pushing 140+ days can lose $100,000+ annually compared to herds hitting 110-day averages

• Quick calculation: Multiply your average days open beyond 110 by $5 per cow per day to estimate minimum profit losses

Machine Learning Technology Advantages

• Back-propagation neural network (BPNN) algorithm with 0.5-hour time window consistently outperforms other methods

• Algorithm performance metrics range from:

– 73.3% to 99.4% for sensitivity

– 50% to 85.7% for specificity

– 72.7% to 95.4% for accuracy

• Modern systems track 12 distinct behavioral parameters simultaneously, including standing, lying, walking, feeding, drinking, activity switches, step counts, displacement, velocity, and behavioral frequencies

https://www.thebullvine.com/technology/transforming-dairy-fertility-machine-learning-isnt-just-the-future-its-here-now/

Dive into the inspiring story of Dutch Holstein breeder Nico Bons, who transformed tragedy into triumph, building a globally respected dairy operation through sheer passion, family teamwork, and an unrelenting focus on breeding excellence.

Key Segments & Takeaways

1. Life-Changing Loss (5:00)

- Nico’s father’s suicide in 1999, compounded by his brother’s barn accident, forced him to take over the family farm unexpectedly.

- Key Quote: “Losing your dad… the next day he’s not there anymore, it’s unbelievable hard.”

- Impact: Fueled Nico’s drive to honor his father’s legacy through breeding success.

2. Canadian Inspiration (12:30)

- Transformative 3-month stint at Bosdale Farms (Canada) at age 18:

- Learned meticulous show preparation and Ed Bos’s breeding philosophy.

- Key Insight: “If I stayed in the Netherlands, it’d take 20 years to learn what I did in 3 months.”

- Nearly stayed in Canada, but returned to revolutionize his Dutch operation.

3. Breeding Revolution (20:15)

- From 80.2-point commercial herd to 89.7-point elite show cattle:

- Sneaky tactics: Altered bull data to convince skeptical father to use Browndale Stardust.

- Built radical barn (2002) with wide cubicles for cow comfort – mocked as “crazy” but proved essential.

- Motto: “I want a show cow, a winning show cow – tattooed on my head.”

4. Unexpected Triumph (28:40)

- 2003 Holland Holstein Show Breakthrough:

- Won Champion Two-Year-Old, Reserve Champion, and Best Breeder Herd with zero expectations.

- Emotional Moment: Nico’s tearful call to wife Leanne: “We did it. I wish Dad could’ve seen this.”

- 19-year quest culminated in 2022 Cremona European Show victory.

5. Price of Perfection (35:50)

- Confession: Nico hates show days due to stress-induced vomiting (7-8x/day early on).

- Post-show ritual: Midnight udder checks to ensure cow health.

- Sacrifice: Skipped weddings, prioritized cattle over social life.

6. Global Judging Wisdom (42:10)

- Judged in 17 countries – insights shaped his “true type” breeding ideal.

- Skeptical of trends: Uses genomics sparingly (25-30%), dismisses methane-focused breeding as “bullshit.”

- Alligator Example: Championed the bull’s daughters for udder quality despite show ring skepticism.

7. Next Generation (50:20)

- Daughter Anouk (19): Trained at Rosedale (Canada), mirrors Nico’s Bosdale journey.

- Full-Circle Moment: Nico now tells Anouk “Come home first” – echoing his father’s words.

- Sister Tessa (16): Won Reserve Champion nationally, plans North American work term.

8. Family Legacy (58:00)

- Wife Leanne: The cornerstone – “If she leaves, I follow.”

- Team Ethos: “We win as a family – no one is more important.”

https://www.thebullvine.com/breeder-profiles/from-tragedy-to-triumph-the-unstoppable-journey-of-holstein-legend-nico-bons/

The USDA’s June 1, 2025 Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) reforms will radically reshape dairy economics, reversing a flawed 2018 policy that cost farmers $725 million during the pandemic. While restoring the “higher-of” formula benefits some, controversial processor-friendly make allowances could strip $56,000 annually from 100-cow operations. Regional disparities will create clear winners (Northeast) and losers (Midwest, California), with urgent adaptation required as competitors already pivot strategies. The clock is ticking—81 days remain to restructure contracts, risk management, and production plans.

Key Points

1. The “Higher-of” Formula Restoration

• Reverses the 2018 Farm Bill’s flawed “average + $0.74” formula that transferred $725M from farmers to processors during COVID-19.

• Class I milk pricing returns to the “higher of” Class III/IV values, correcting pandemic-era losses.

2. Processor Victory: Make Allowance Surges

• 25–42% increases in manufacturing cost margins (e.g., cheese: +25.8%, butter: +32.5%, nonfat dry milk: +42.6%).

• Could reduce Class III prices by 90¢/cwt and Class IV by 85¢/cwt if applied retroactively (2019–2023).

3. Regional Warfare

• Northeast Wins: High Class I utilization and new processing plants (e.g., New York’s $650M Fairlife facility) create growth opportunities.

• Midwest/California Lose: Upper Midwest faces $177M pool value loss; California risks $94M reduction due to Class III/IV reliance.

4. Component Changes Delayed Until December 2025

• True protein (3.1% → 3.3%) and other solids (5.9% → 6.0%) updates incentivize component production but exclude butterfat adjustments.

• Six-month delay could cost farmers $100M+ in lost revenue.

5. Hedging Overhaul Required

• Removal of 500-lb barrel cheese from pricing calculations increases butterfat risk.

• Recalibrate strategies with risk management specialists immediately.

Critical Quotes

• Douglas: “The return to the ‘higher-of’ formula isn’t a gift—it’s returning what was stolen in 2018.”

• Zippy Duvall (Farm Bureau): “USDA’s voluntary processor survey skews make allowances against farmers.”

• Mark Stephenson (Dairy Economist): “Co-ops must renegotiate premiums to offset processor gains.”

Timeline

• June 1, 2025: FMMO reforms take effect (81 days from recording).

• December 1, 2025: Component factor updates (protein/solids) begin.

Resources

• USDA Final Rule (Jan 17, 2025)

• Farm Bureau Analysis

• Full Article on The Bullvine

Call to Action

Visit TheBullvine.com for region-specific survival toolkits, hedging guides, and component optimization strategies. Subscribe to stay ahead of dairy’s seismic shifts!

“Your competitors aren’t waiting—adapt now or perish later.” – Douglas Miller

https://www.thebullvine.com/dairy-markets/dairys-81-day-reckoning-3-states-that-win-5-facing-financial-bloodbath/

Hosts Bella and Douglas explore whether modern genomic breeding tools have truly eliminated the role of luck in dairy breeding. They discuss fascinating historical “lucky breaks” that shaped Holstein genetics, examine the limitations of current genomic technology, and offer practical strategies for breeders navigating the upcoming April 2025 genetic evaluation updates. This episode reveals that despite scientific advances, chance still plays a significant role in breeding success.

Topics Covered

• The 75% Solution: The reliability limits of genomic prediction tools (2:15)

• Historical Lucky Breaks: How chance events created legendary Holstein bloodlines (7:30)

• The Missing Telephone: The Spring Brook Bess Burke story (9:45)

• The Injured Leg: How Montvic Pathfinder changed Holstein history (15:20)

• The Change of Clothes: The creation of A.B.C. Reflection Sovereign (22:40)

• When Your AI Guy Says “Sorry”: The Almerson Sovereign Supreme story (27:15)

• The 25-35% Gap: What genomics still can’t predict (31:05)

• ROI on Genomic Testing: Financial perspective on testing (35:20)

• April 2025 Updates: Practical advice for the coming changes (39:30)

• Four Strategies: Balancing science and serendipity (47:30)

Key Takeaways

1. Genomic selection offers approximately 75% reliability for production traits, leaving 25-35% of genetic potential unpredictable

2. Some of Holstein history’s most influential bloodlines resulted from chance events and “backup plans”

3. The April 2025 genetic evaluation updates will require breeders to recalibrate their selection thresholds

4. Genomic testing offers an ROI of $75-$200 per animal tested despite its limitations

5. Successful breeding requires balancing scientific precision with openness to unexpected opportunities

Notable Quotes

“The 2025 base change is bigger than previous adjustments, but this is good news! It means that our cows are improving faster than ever.”

• Chuck Sattler, Select Sires

“As I look back now, it was indeed fortunate that we did not have a telephone and that those calves never came to our farm.”

• A.J. Lashbrook (historical quote)

“The genetics have not changed, and the animals themselves have not changed. What has changed is how we view an animal’s genetic superiority.”

• ABS Global

Resources Mentioned

• Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB): April 2025 genetic evaluation updates

• Journal of Dairy Science: Research on genomic reliability percentages

• USDA Agricultural Research Service: Net Merit index formula changes

• Select Sires & ABS Global: Industry perspectives on the base change

Connect With Us

Share your “lucky break” breeding story with us on The Bullvine website or tag us on social media with #BullvineLuckyBreaks!

https://www.thebullvine.com/genomics/lucky-or-calculated-the-surprising-truth-about-genomics-and-luck-in-dairy-breeding/

Discover how Kingsway Holsteins, a modest-sized family farm, became Canada’s #2 breeder of Excellent cows through passion, precision, and community roots.

Key Topics Covered

1. Kingsway’s recognition as Canada’s #2 breeder of Excellent cows

2. The McMillan family’s multi-generational commitment to dairy farming

3. Kingsway’s breeding philosophy and approach to genetics

4. Arangatang: The legendary cow that changed everything

5. Global impact of Kingsway genetics

6. Balancing tradition with innovation in modern dairy farming

7. Community involvement and diversification beyond dairy

Highlighted Segments

• 00:05:30 The significance of being named Canada’s #2 breeder of Excellent cows

• 00:12:45 Kingsway’s balanced approach to using proven sires and genomic advancements

• 00:18:20 The extraordinary story of Arangatang and her 18 Excellent daughters

• 00:25:40 How the youngest McMillans are learning the family business

• 00:32:15 The unique tradition of including prize cows in family wedding photos

• 00:38:50 Kingsway’s success stories in international show rings and herds

• 00:45:30 Navigating challenges in modern dairy farming

• 00:52:10 The McMillan family’s community involvement beyond the farm

Notable Quotes

• “Farming has been something that we have always known growing up.” - Morgan McMillan

• “There’s something special about watching a young heifer develop into exactly what you envisioned when you planned that mating.” - Morgan McMillan

• “Being consistent everyday and doing your best to do the little things right will pay off in the end.” - Morgan McMillan’s advice to young breeders

https://www.thebullvine.com/breeder-profiles/the-heart-of-excellence-getting-to-know-the-family-behind-kingsway-holsteins/

In this episode, Bella Thompson and Douglas Miller explore five groundbreaking calf rearing strategies that are transforming dairy operations across the country. Learn how pair housing, extended colostrum feeding, stress-free weaning, strategic hay introduction, and immunity-boosting nutrition can deliver a remarkable $4.20 return for every dollar invested. Packed with actionable tips, real-world farmer testimonials, and expert insights, this episode will inspire you to rethink your calf program and unlock its full potential.

Key Topics Covered:

1. The Blind Spot in Calf Rearing: Why the first 60 days of a calf's life represent the highest-return investment opportunity on your farm.

2. Pair Housing Benefits: How housing calves in pairs improves feed intake, reduces cross-sucking behaviors, and enhances growth.

3. Extended Colostrum Feeding: The untapped potential of colostrum beyond day one to improve gut health and reduce scours.

4. Stress-Free Weaning: Gradual weaning methods that slash post-weaning illness rates from 34% to as low as 12%.

5. The Hay Paradox: Why moderate-quality hay outperforms premium alfalfa for rumen development.

6. Immunity-Boosting Nutrition: Using probiotics and zinc supplementation to reduce antibiotic reliance and enhance calf health.

Practical Implementation Tips:

• Start small with one strategy—pair housing, extended colostrum feeding, or stress-free weaning—and measure results before scaling up.

• Use tools like Brix refractometers for colostrum quality testing or smart collars for data-driven weaning decisions.

• Collaborate with neighboring farms to share resources like pasteurizers or specialized calf facilities.

Episode Highlights:

• ROI Breakdown: How implementing these strategies delivers a net economic impact of $477 per calf within 18 months.

• Male Calves as Profit Centers: Transform bull calves into revenue streams through dairy-beef crossbreeding programs.

• Consumer Trends: Aligning calf welfare practices with consumer demand for antibiotic-free and grass-fed dairy products.

https://www.thebullvine.com/management/revolutionizing-calf-rearing-5-game-changing-nutrition-strategies-that-deliver-4-20-roi-for-every-dollar-invested/

In recognition of International Women’s Day 2025, this episode examines the changing landscape for women in the dairy industry. Using the latest data from the IDFA’s 2025 State of Women in Dairy report, hosts Bella and Douglas explore both the remarkable progress women have made in dairy leadership and the persistent challenges they continue to face. From technological innovations to economic implications, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how women are reshaping dairy’s future.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

• 00:00 - 02:30: Introduction and episode overview

• 02:30 - 07:45: Women’s changing roles in modern dairy operations

• 07:45 - 14:20: Historical context of women in dairy farming

• 14:20 - 21:15: Female trailblazers in leadership positions

• 21:15 - 27:30: How technology is leveling the playing field

• 27:30 - 34:15: The business case for women’s leadership

• 34:15 - 40:30: Networks and programs accelerating women’s advancement

• 40:30 - 46:45: Persistent challenges and barriers

• 46:45 - 52:00: Future outlook for women in dairy

• 52:00 - 55:00: Conclusion and calls to action

Key Statistics Mentioned:

• 54% of women in dairy are asking for promotions vs. 47% of men

• 62% of women receive promotions when asked - equal to men’s success rate

• 48% of women believe they have fewer advancement opportunities than men

• 55% of women believe gender negatively impacts their compensation vs. only 5% of men

• 41% of Gen Z and Millennial women believe gender will make career advancement harder

• 29% of female frontline employees have left jobs due to lack of opportunities

• 63% of women expressed satisfaction with career advancement opportunities

Notable Quotes:

• “The question is no longer whether women can lead in dairy, but how quickly the industry will transform to fully leverage the talent, perspective, and innovation that women have always brought to agriculture.”

• “What’s most revolutionary about this technological shift is how it’s rendering outdated gender assumptions obsolete.”

• “If more than half of women feel their contributions aren’t being fairly compensated, how long will they stay in dairy when other agricultural and food sectors are actively recruiting diverse talent?”

People and Organizations Mentioned:

• Becky Rasdall Vargas, Senior Vice President at IDFA

• Jackie Klippenstein, Senior Vice President at Dairy Farmers of America

• Mary Creek, third-generation dairy farmer from Hagerstown, Maryland

• International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA)

• Women in Dairy network

• Dairy Girl Network

• National Milk Producers Federation

• Newtrient

https://www.thebullvine.com/dairy-industry-professionals/women-shattering-dairys-glass-ceiling-leadership-innovation-and-the-fight-for-equality-in-2025/

n this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, Bella and Douglas explore the extraordinary life and legacy of Pawnee Farm Arlinda Chief, the Holstein bull whose genetics revolutionized global dairy farming. Born in 1962, Chief’s unprecedented influence reshaped milk production and fundamentally altered the Holstein breed. But his story is more than one of triumph—it’s also a cautionary tale about the risks of genetic concentration and the unforeseen consequences of selective breeding. From Chief’s humble beginnings in Nebraska to his lasting impact on modern genomics, this episode dives deep into one of dairy farming’s most influential chapters.

https://www.thebullvine.com/sire-spotlight/the-4300-gamble-that-reshaped-global-dairy-industry-the-pawnee-farm-arlinda-chief-story/

Key Topics Covered:

1. The Visionary Breeder: Lester Fishler

• Fishler’s journey from adversity to becoming a “Holstein breeding wizard.”

• The pivotal role of Canadian genetics, including Glenvue Clipper and Rosafe Pearl Hannibal, in shaping Chief’s pedigree.

2. The $4,300 Gamble

• The 1962 Pawnee Farm dispersal sale near Central City, Nebraska.

• Wally Lindskoog’s purchase of Pawnee Farm Glenvue Beauty and her subsequent journey to California.

3. The Birth of a Legend

• Chief’s birth on May 9, 1962, and his near-death experience with bloat at eight months old.

• How Chief got his name from Dave Risling during a visit to Arlinda Farms.

4. Chief’s Genetic Legacy

• His record-breaking daughters, including Beecher Arlinda Ellen, the first cow to produce over 55,000 pounds of milk in a year.

• The contributions of his sons like Walkway Chief Mark and S-W-D Valiant in shaping modern Holstein genetics.

5. The Hidden Cost: APAF1 Mutation

• Discovery of the lethal recessive mutation linked to Chief, responsible for 500,000 spontaneous abortions and $420 million in losses.

• How genomic tools now help breeders manage this mutation.

6. Modern Genomics and Lessons for Breeders

• How genomic testing could have amplified Chief’s strengths while mitigating weaknesses like udder conformation issues.

• The importance of balancing genetic progress with diversity to ensure long-term sustainability.

7. Chief vs. Elevation: A Tale of Two Titans

• Comparing Chief’s milk production prowess with Elevation’s type improvement traits and how their combined influence shaped the modern Holstein cow.

Key Takeaways:

• Revolutionary Genetics: Chief contributed nearly 15% to today’s Holstein genome, transforming milk production capabilities worldwide.

• Unforeseen Challenges: His APAF1 mutation caused significant losses but highlighted the importance of genomic testing in avoiding genetic recessives.

• Lessons for Breeders: Balance production gains with genetic diversity to ensure sustainable herd health and profitability.

• Modern Genomics: Today’s tools provide opportunities to amplify strengths while mitigating risks associated with concentrated bloodlines.

Related Articles on The Bullvine:

• The Four Nations Cup of Holstein Genetics: A Global Dairy Showdown

• The Ultimate Guide to Breeding Dairy Cattle: Tips for Optimal Milk Production

• Elite Holstein Genetics Shine in 2024 BAA Rankings!

Call-to-Action:

If you enjoyed today’s episode, subscribe to The Bullvine Podcast on your favorite platform and leave us a review! Visit www.thebullvine.com for more articles on dairy farming and cattle breeding, or connect with us on social media for updates and discussions.