Episode 347 - Heat Stress Starts Earlier Than We Think: Using Cow Sensors to Stay Ahead - UMN Extension's The Moos Room

In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad discusses spring pasture challenges in western Minnesota, including dry conditions, temperature swings, and slowed grass growth. With summer heat on the horizon, the focus shifts to heat stress in dairy cows and how precision technologies, especially internal bolus sensors, can help farmers identify problems earlier.

Brad shares observations from cows monitored with Smaxtec boluses, including rumination, internal body temperature, and water intake data. He also reviews research from the University of Minnesota herd showing that rumination may start dropping at lower temperature-humidity index levels than traditional industry thresholds suggest. Conventional cows showed rumination declines around a THI of 64, while pasture-based organic cows showed declines closer to 58.

The episode highlights why waiting for milk production losses may be too late when managing heat stress. Instead, rumination, body temperature, water intake, shade, cooling systems, and feeding strategies can all play a role in protecting cow comfort and performance before visible signs of heat stress appear.

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