Milk Lines

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2026 DISTINGUISHED DAIRY AWARD – McCarty Family Farms has been named the 2026 Kansas Distinguished Dairy Award winner by K-State Extension and Kansas Dairy. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says the family, now in its fifth generation, was recognized for its dedication to sustainable dairy production, animal welfare, and community involvement.

A BANNER YEAR FOR KANSAS DAIRY – A significant increase in cow numbers produced a banner year for the Kansas dairy industry in 2025. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk looks at the data and how Kansas dairy producers saw an increase in milk production.

EXPORTS AND PROMOTION KEY FOR 2026 – The key factors for dairy producers in 2026 center on navigating a “new normal” of high production and tighter margins, with exports focusing heavily on cheese and protein to absorb the increased milk supply. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says industry promotion is another key factor.

WATER CONSERVATION IS A PRIORITY – Water is the most essential nutrient for dairy operations. In most dairy operations, crop irrigation accounts for about 90% of water use. With water conservation continuing to be a major concern, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk encourages producers, when possible, to increase the use of crops that require less water. He says this will allow current dairy operations and expand operations in the future.

HEAT STRESS EFFECTS ON CALVES – Now is a good time to remind dairy farmers that calves born to heat-stressed dams are born smaller, with weaker immune systems, and suffer from reduced long-term health and productivity. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says calves born to heat-stressed cows are about 10 pounds lighter, have a lighter weaning weight and longevity is reduced. He says heifers born to heat-stressed mothers typically produce less milk per day in their first, second, and third lactations.

STARTER DIETS FOR DAIRY CALVES – Research at Kansas State University indicates dairy producers might be able to reduce costs and improve efficiency with starter calves. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says the research included a specialized distillers grains product that has the bran removed. The result was a higher protein product than typical distillers grains at a lower cost.

KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY DAIRY DAYS – Kansas State University’s annual Dairy Days is scheduled for February 17th in Seneca and February 18th in Whiteside. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk previews some of the topics that will be discussed at both sites.

INDIVIDUAL COW SOMATIC CELL DATA – Individual somatic cell count data, measuring white blood cells in milk, acts as a primary indicator of udder health and subclinical mastitis in cows. Without this data, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says dairy farmers can’t keep track of new infections and identify those cows with high somatic cell count. As a result, he suggests farmers obtain this data on at least a monthly or quarterly basis.

CARING FOR NEWBORN CALVES – In winter, keeping newborn dairy calves healthy and safe requires time and planning. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says calves need immediate drying and warming after birth, a warm, dry, draft-free shelter with deep bedding – like straw – for insulation, plus calf jackets for newborns under the age of three weeks to prevent cold stress.

ASSESSING FORAGE NEEDS FOR 2026 – K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says this is a good time for dairy producers to assess their available forage and determine their planting and purchasing decisions for 2026. He says there’s an ample supply of hay this year and that dairy farmers will need enough corn silage to last through the end of December.

THE KANSAS DAIRY INDUSTRY IN 2025 – The Kansas dairy industry is showing sustained growth in terms of milk production. However, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says dairy herds increased in size in 2025, but the total number of dairy farms decreased – something he expects to continue in 2026 and beyond.

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A SECURE MILK SUPPLY PLAN – Whether it’s the potential for an outbreak of bird flu, New World screwworm or foot and mouth disease, every dairy needs a biosecurity plan. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says the Kansas Department of Agriculture has a Secure Milk Supply Plan that can help those without a plan set one up. If a plan already exists, it should be reviewed annually and employees should be trained on what to do if the plan needs to be implemented.

USING DATA TO DRIVE THE DAIRY – As 2025 draws to a close and producers begin taking a closer look at how well the dairy performed financially, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk encourages them to look at what leads to financial success. He says that includes matching data from the production side with the financial output of the farm.

IMPORTANCE OF QUALITY FORAGE – Just slight moves in the percentage of protein and fat in the dairy herd, without a real increase in production, can boost income per animal by one-to-two dollars. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says the quality of the dairy forages being used play an important factor in increasing protein and fat.

AN INCREASE IN DAIRY COW NUMBERS – The Kansas dairy industry is experiencing a significant growth in the number of dairy cattle across the state. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says most of the expansion is in western Kansas where a new cheese plant in Dodge City added 37,000 head of dairy cows to the 181,000 head of dairy cows in Kansas at the start of 2025. He says the economic activity from this growth benefits local communities and the state of Kansas.

MANAGING REPRODUCTIVE STATUS – As dairy producers look for ways to survive narrow margins heading into 2026, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk (brook) says feed costs, typically 50-to-55% of total production costs, can be volatile and is out of the producer’s control. However, managing the reproductive status of the herd is something they can control – and today’s technology makes that easier. Mike encourages producers to consider how investing in technology can save them money.

CHANGES IN THE HOLSTEIN BREED – There have been several changes in the Holstein Breed over the past 20 years. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says that includes transitioning to a smaller cow that has stronger feet and legs, addressing breeding issues – primarily through genetics – to improve conception rates, and making progress regarding fat percent and protein percent.

WINTER TEAT PROTECTION – As winter draws nearer, dairy producers should be prepared to provide protection against potential teat damage. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk explains the various treatments available and at what point additional protection is warranted.

BIRD FLU PRECAUTIONS ARE WORKING – As bird migration continues, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk looks at the status of bird flu across the United States and how continual testing appears to be having a positive impact on detecting any potential problems in dairy herds.

CALVES ARE BOOSTING THE BOTTOM LINE – There’s been a shift in how dairy producers view bull calves and cross-bred calves on the farm because their value has increased significantly over the last 18 months. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says about 25% of the total revenue on the dairy might be associated with the sale of cull calves and high-value heifers and bull calves being produced on the farm. He says producers can protect their bottom line by keeping their calves healthy.

NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR THE DAIRY INDUSTRY – K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk (brook) recently attended the World Dairy Expo and viewed some of the new technology being developed for the dairy industry. One piece of technology he’s excited about eliminates the disruption caused by performing DHIA testing by collecting data using inline sensors mounted to each milking stall. He thinks this technology can greatly improve efficiencies on the dairy.

THE DEMAND FOR LACTOSE-FREE PRODUCTS – An increased demand for lactose-free products is part of a broader consumer trend toward "value-added" dairy, which includes items like high-protein and reduced-lactose goods. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says the new technologies used to create these products are helping Kansas producers meet the demand of today’s consumers.

CORN SILAGE SEED ORDERS FOR 2026 – A move away from BMR – brown midrib – hybrid varieties will result in significant changes in seed offerings for 2026. In anticipation of the changes, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk recommends producers think about how they use corn silage in the dairy diet, select a variety that has high digestibility and place greater importance on when to harvest the silage.

EFFECTIVE PASSIVE IMMUNITY – If dairy producers are not testing the level of immunoglobulins in colostrum, they’re just guessing as to whether the calf receives enough to result in effective passive immunity. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says conducting the test is relatively simple.

IMPACT OF USDA REVISIONS ON DAIRY – USDA has revised some numbers that could have an impact on the dairy industry. This includes milk production, the All Milk price for 2025 and cow numbers. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk looks at the potential impact the revisions could have on the dairy industry.

NUTRITION PROGRAMS FOR DAMS – For most of the year, dairy producers are generally feeding two animals: the cow and her unborn calf. Research shows that how dams are fed will impact the future production of that calf she’s carrying. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk discusses why it’s important for dairy farmers to have a nutrition program that’s specifically designed for gestating cows.

DAIRY PRODUCERS OF THE YEAR – McCarty Family Farms is being recognized by the World Dairy Expo as the 2025 Dairy Producers of the Year. The World Dairy Expo says McCarty Family Farms was selected for producing high quality milk while prioritizing animal welfare, regenerative farming and implementing impactful business practices for their team and community. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk looks at the history of McCarty Family Farms and its impact on the dairy industry.

ERADICATING NEW WORLD SCREWWORM – The New World screwworm continues to be an issue as it moves closer to the United States/Mexican border. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says the U.S. is investing in breeding facilities to produce sterile male flies as well methods to disperse those flies to help reduce the population and eventually eradicate the New World screwworm.

SECURING AVAILABLE FORAGE – With forage harvest wrapping up across Kansas, it’s a good time for dairy producers to see what forage they have on hand and to secure additional forage for the remainder of 2025 into 2026. While the forage supply is fairly abundant across the state, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says producers should shop around, check moisture content and quality before purchasing forage for the dairy herd.

FARM PRICE VERSUS CONSUMER PRICE – The price paid for Class 1 milk and the price consumers pay at the grocery store for bottled milk is not the same. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says data collected by the Federal Milk Marketing Order from surveys conducted in Denver, St. Louis, Kansas City and Wichita provides some insight into the difference between the Class1 base price and what consumers pay at the store.

HEALTH RISKS OF RAW MILK – Health officials in Florida are warning people about the dangers of drinking raw milk after 21 people got sick from products linked to a single farm. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says the consumption of raw milk, especially for young children and older adults, poses a health risk because raw milk can harbor dangerous bacteria. He says the recommendation is to consume products that have been pasteurized and tested to make sure they don’t contain traces of bacteria that could be harmful.

NATIONAL MILK TESTING STRATEGY – HPAI, or bird flu, in cow herds across the United States is beginning to show signs of being on the downward side. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk (brook) says a national milk testing strategy implemented last year by APHIS – Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service – rates Kansas as a Stage 4- Unaffected state. He says that means Kansas doesn’t have any herds testing positive for HPAI.

A FAIR PRICE FOR CORN SILAGE – Corn silage harvest will begin soon and with no official market price for corn silage, determining its fair value relies heavily on negotiation between the buyer and seller. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says there is a common rule of thumb, based on several factors, that can help determine a fair price for corn silage.

ECONOMIC IMPACT OF KANSAS DAIRY – The Kansas dairy industry has a significant direct and indirect impact on the state’s economy. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says the dairy industry in Kansas creates jobs, increases export sales and generates tax dollars – helping to drive the Kansas economy.

CELEBRATING ICE CREAM MONTH – Some recent studies confirm what we’ve all suspected – Americans love ice cream. In fact, only New Zealand consumes more ice cream than the United States. July is National Ice Cream Month and K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk looks at the most popular flavors, toppings and pairings, as well as our preference for a cone or a bowl.

TIMING CORN SILAGE HARVEST – As Kansas continues to quickly accumulate growing degree days, corn silage harvest is rapidly approaching. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says several key factors determine when to harvest, including corn maturity, whole-plant moisture and the weather.

SAFELY TRANSPORTING CALVES – As more calves are being transported off the dairy, researchers are looking at ways to make transportation safer and less stressful for the animals. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk discusses some of the findings that researchers have already made.

DIRTY FANS INCREASE ENERGY COSTS – A little dust on fan blades and the housing may not seem like a big deal. However, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says that little bit of dust may result in 30-40% less air movement and increased electrical costs. He suggests cleaning fans once a month to cut energy costs as well as reduce wear and tear on the motor housing.

TECHNOLOGY AND HEAT STRESS – As summer heat sets in across Kansas, dairy producers are reminded to be monitoring for heat stress in animals. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says even a mild case of heat stress can result in a 2% reduction in milk production the following week. He discusses some new technology that can help producers track and better manage heat stress on the farm.

WATCHING THE BOTTOM LINE – Data from the administrator of the Central Milk Marketing Order shows milk prices continue to increase. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk looks at the data and explains what milk producers can do if margins tighten for the remainder of 2025 into 2026.

MIDWEST DAIRY PRODUCTION – June is National Dairy Month and K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk looks at some of the 2024 Midwest dairy production and how that compares to the five-year average. Overall, he says the Midwest continues to increase production in several areas, including cheese and yogurt.

FLY CONTROL IN CALF REARING AREAS – Effective fly control in calf rearing areas involves a multi-pronged approach, including sanitation, physical barriers, and, if necessary, chemical controls. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says sanitation is crucial, especially in breeding grounds like manure and rotting hay.

FLY CONTROL ON DAIRIES – With fly season about to kick into high gear, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk encourages dairy producers to take steps now to reduce the potential for fly populations to skyrocket on their dairy this spring and summer. He recommends a multi-pronged approach combining sanitation, biological control and targeted insecticides.

REGISTER FOR JUNIOR DAIRY SHOW – The 60th Annual Kansas All Breeds Junior Dairy Show is being held June 19th-21st in Salina. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk provides a general overview of this year’s event and explains how youth can register for the dairy show.

CALCULATING REPLACEMENT HEIFERS – Making decisions about replacement heifers is an annual chore for dairy producers. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says many factors help determine that decision. He suggests producers start by gathering two to three years of data on heifer performance and replacement rates and then take into consideration several other factors to determine how many replacement heifers will be needed.

OPTIONS FOR SECURING FORAGE – Forages are an essential part of Kansas’ agricultural landscape. There is a tremendous amount of diversity in the kind of forages we produce, ranging from warm-season and cool-season, or from permanent plantings such as brome pasture, annuals such as cover crops, or even crop residues grazed after harvest. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk discusses some of the options available for securing forage in the months ahead.

FAIR AND EXHIBITION REQUIREMENTS – With county fairs and exhibition season rapidly approaching for those with dairy animals, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says there are requirements that must be met before the animals can be shown. He says the primary concern is making sure the animals are disease-free.

HEAT STRESS IMPACTS PRODUCTION – K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk discusses new data from the Federal Milk Marketing order and how warmer weather over the next 90-120 days impacts milk production. He explains that heat stress in the herd affects butterfat, protein and production.

CARING FOR YOUNG CALVES – In today’s current climate, dairy heifer calves are in short supply so calves being born on dairy farms are becoming increasingly valuable. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk discusses the importance of providing quality calf care soon after birth and the impact it has on growth rate, milk production and how long they stay in the herd.

BOOSTING FAT PRODUCTION – Animal behavior research by the Miner Institute found that ruminating while lying down helps to increase milk fat production in dairy cows. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says the Penn State Particle Separator can be used to assess TMR particle size and optimize fiber content to potentially increase milk fat production in dairy cows.

STAYING VIGILANT AGAINST HPAI – HPAI – or bird flu – in U.S. dairy cattle has been weakening since it was first detected in March 2024. HPAI is still being detected in some states and K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk reminds Kansas dairy producers to remain vigilant in their biosecurity measures to control its spread and mitigate the impact on the dairy industry.

2024 MILK PRODUCTION – According to the Federal Milk Marketing Order, milk production in 2024 was down compared to 2023. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says Kansas remained 17th in the nation in milk production and was ranked 16th in production per cow. This week, he takes a closer look at the report’s findings.

ADDRESSING HOOF HEALTH – After a long, cold winter, dairy producers may be seeing some lameness in the herd. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk recommends producers start using footbaths again and contact their hoof trimmer. He says maintaining a trimming schedule can decrease lameness and increase milk production.

CHANGES IN THE DAIRY CASE – New products seem to pop up weekly in the grocery store. However, it’s not as common for new products to show up in the dairy case. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk looks at a new product from the Dairy Farmers of America that contains less sugar than regular milk and 9 grams of crude protein. He says the goal is to increase consumption of fluid milk and offer a healthy alternative to plant-based beverages.

GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS – Dairy only contributes 2% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and have been working to get that percentage even lower. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk looks at some of the measures that small-to-medium sized dairies can implement to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

MILK MARKETING DATA FOR 2024 – Data for the Central Milk Marketing Order for 2024 shows average prices were up a bit compared to 2023 and the value of components for milk fat was worth more while protein was worth slightly less. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk takes a closer look at the findings from the Milk Marketing Order report.

THE HEIFER COMPLETION RATE – The demand for dairy heifers has increased over the last several months and is expected to continue. As a result, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk encourages dairy farmers to carefully consider how many heifers they need to produce every year to have enough replacements for their herd. He says producers can use what’s called the heifer completion rate to determine how large their heifer herd needs to be.

CHANGES IN DAIRY FARM SIZE – The dairy industry has experienced a substantial change in the size of dairy farms over the past 25 years. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says the data shows fewer farms in the Central Milk Marketing Order, including Kansas, are shipping more than a semi-load of milk a day off the farm. He says smaller dairy operations should be thinking about how they can add value to their milk.

POTENTIAL IMPACT OF FMMO CHANGES – The amendments to the Federal Milk Marketing Orders have been approved and dairy producers are wondering how those changes will impact the milk checks they receive. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk expects the changes to be fairly minimal. He also says producers can learn more by attending the upcoming Dairy Days on either February 19th or 20th.

K-STATE DAIRY DAYS IN FEBRUARY – Kansas State University’s annual Dairy Days is scheduled for February 19th in Whiteside and February 20th in Seneca. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk highlights some of the presenters and topics for this year’s event.

INCREASING MILK COMPONENTS – Increasing milk components means dairy farmers can produce milk with higher levels of fat and protein. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk recommends reviewing nutrition and breeding programs with nutritionists and breeding specialists to find ways to increase milk components.

WHAT DOES 2025 HOLD FOR DAIRY FARMERS – With 2024 now in the books, it’s time to look ahead to 2025. What can dairy farmers expect to see? K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk looks at the last few months of 2024 and how that’s an encouraging sign for dairy farmers for 2025.

MORE MONITORING FOR HPAI – As HPAI continues to be an issue across the United States, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says USDA is implementing a rules change that will require each state to test a certain percentage of herds for the virus. He discusses some of the rules that are being put in place.