Microorganisms in Feed on Maryland Dairy Farms
Another project currently being conducted is an extension based project involving analyzing Maryland dairy farmer’s knowledge of feed contamination from mycotoxins and clostridium, testing their feed, and afterwards supplying them with educational materials to improve their feed management.
A survey was sent to 293 dairy farms across the state to assess their knowledge, concerns and experiences with mycotoxins and clostridium contaminating their corn silage and total mixed ration (TMR). As of July 30, 53 farms have responded. We have just sent out a follow up letter to encourage more responses.
The survey inquired on things such as the size and production of each farm, and details such as breeds of cow and feedstuffs that are used. The farmers were then asked about their corn silage and TMR management, knowledge of contamination, and experiences with mycotoxins and clostridium. It is worth noting that a some dairy farms in Maryland are grassfed operations so the survey did not apply to them. Farmers were also asked general questions such as if they needed help with anything else, if the survey was helpful, and if they are interested in educational resources.
In the next step we will be visiting dairy farms that are willing to have us to sample their feed and test for mycotoxins and clostridium. We can use this data to better understand the prevalence of mycotoxins and clostridium in Maryland corn silage and TMR. Afterwards, we will come back to the farms with educational materials to reduce their feed contamination. These educational materials will be free of charge and offered in several different formats to allow farmers with different media capabilities and preferences to understand the material. Finally, a field day will be conducted to provide a group learning setting.
This article appears on September 2024, in Volume 5, Issue 2, of the Maryland Milk Moos newsletter.