Lice

Lice in animals can be a common problem during winter. Many farmers deal with heavyinfestations that can cause unthriftiness, reduce weight gain, and lead to economic losses.Lice affect many livestock species, including cattle, swine, poultry, sheep, and goats.Different types of lice infect humans. Animals do not carry or spread human lice. What are lice? Lice … Read more

Small Farms Animal Health Survey

Lamb standing on a hill in brown grassy field.

Small farms matter! Over the coming year, The Livestock Conservancy and the Center for Food Security and Public Health at Iowa State University will develop practical animal health information made for YOU. Together, we hope to create better tools for small farmers and especially breeders, to help keep animals healthy, and to know what to … Read more

September is organic month!

Dairy herd on pasture

As an organic farmer, you know the benefits of raising livestock organically. In this post, we celebrate and hope to raise awareness of the benefits of organic agriculture for everyone! What does “organic” mean? The National Organic Program (NOP) describes organic ag as an approach that seeks to understand how all parts of the system … Read more

Understanding A2A2 Milk 

Jersey calf with a green ear tag lies in straw

Over the past ten years, A2A2 milk has continued gaining popularity with consumers, dairy cattle farms, and producers. A2A2 milk is marketed differently in stores, claiming it is easier to digest and improves health. Some dairy cattle farms select genetics that include the A2A2 gene to develop a completely A2A2 herd. Understanding what the A2 … Read more

Avian influenza in dairy cows – what organic and alternative producers need to know

Ducks flying over water

As many may have heard, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been found in dairy cattle in multiple states around the United States. Dairy cattle on a farm in Texas first showed unusual symptoms, including an unexpected drop in milk production, thick colostrum-like milk, and changes in manure consistency. On March 25, 2024, the United … Read more