University of Missouri--Columbia. Extension Division
Abstract
Original authors: Tony R. Rickard and Stacey A. Hamilton (University of Missouri). Revised 2022 Scott Poock and Stacey Hamilton.stats082022upload"Dairy heifers are the foundation of any dairy enterprise and directly affect future profitability. Because replacement heifers represent a negative cash flow, this aspect of the dairy operation is often neglected. Unfortunately, this neglect often costs producers large amounts of money. The goals of a heifer program should be to achieve the proper size and weight for the particular breed being raised and to calve by 22 to 24 months of age. Missouri data indicate an average age at first calving of 27 to 28 months. The lost net income per heifer is estimated to be at least $1.50 per day for each day over 24 months of age until freshening."--Page 1.Stacey A. Hamilton (Dairy Specialist, Animal Science Department), Scott E. Poock (State Dairy Extension Veterinarian
