New 2017 Dairy Farm Regulations Explained

Confused by the new dairy regulations that went into effect at the start of the new year? Cornell Cooperative Extension will explain them at a free Winter Shop Meeting Wednesday, February 15.

You may need a lawyer and a veterinarian to understand the new regulations.  In fact part of the rules is the "Veterinary Client Patient Relationship" that requires a signed document between you and your vet.  Other regulations related to the Dairy FARM (Farmers Assuring Responsible Management) Program being administered by The National Milk Producers Federation is no tail docking and the removal of all feed efficiency and growth promotion labels of antibiotics important in human medicine.

The use of AS 700 is no longer allowed, neomycin/terramycin can no longer be added to milk, and it can only be included in milk replacer for one 10 to 14 day period with a Veterinary Feed Directive.

A Pilot Program is also set to start that will test one in 15 loads of milk for tetracycline. The National Conference on Interstate Milk Shippers currently tests for penicillin, and will now be on the look-out for tetracycline products. The start date for this test has not yet been released, but is anticipated to run for 18 months once testing does begin.

As some of my relatives used to say, "it's as clear as mud."  C.C.E. will be discussing all the current changes at their Winter Shop Meeting this Wednesday, February 15th from noon to 2.  The workshop will be at 199 Post St. in Boonville.   While it's free and even includes lunch, you do need to register, call Marylynn at 315-736-3394 ext. 132.

SOURCE:Cornell Cooperative Extension Marylynn Collins