Farmer-Driven Research for Developing Models of Successful Low Input Dairy Farms of Small to Medium Size in the American Midwest

Farmer-Driven Research for Developing Models of Successful Low Input Dairy Farms of Small to Medium Size in the American Midwest

The dairy industry in the upper Midwest continues to evolve with a drastic reduction in the number of dairy farms with less than 100 cows that utilise tie-stall housing. Many of the farms that do remain are at a critical point where facilities require renovation or replacement that is not economic. Rural communities have fewer residents engaged in agriculture to participate in the local economy and the rural landscape includes many farm sites that are abandoned. Low input dairies are an alternative system developed by farmers as a grass-roots movement. Low input farms may include grazing, outdoor housing throughout the year, crossbreeding, group housing of calves, etc. Barns formerly used to stable cows may be renovated to provide a milking centre. Low input dairy farmers are eager to participate in on-farm research when they determine the direction of research. We will describe one trial designed to answer questions determined by farmers and outline our research approach to designing effective reduced input dairy farms. The objective is to identify the essential components of management and organisation for low input dairy farms in the American Midwest.