Abstract #361

# 361
Dairy extension programs in the southern region: Finding novel ways to meet the needs of our producers.
J. K. Bernard*1, 1University of Georgia, Tifton, GA.

The dairy industry in the southern United States continues to change resulting in fewer, but larger, more intensely managed herds. Today most producers employ consultants (e.g., agronomic, nutrition, reproduction and health, farm business, facilities design) to help management and improve production and return on investment. Also, agribusinesses that serve the dairy industry provide technical support to large producers as they compete with other companies to maintain market share. Most universities have undergone budget cuts necessitating changing how dairy extension programs within each state are operated. Today most university dairy extension specialists have split appointments with research and/or teaching responsibilities, which limits their time for traditional farm visits or county meetings. Specialist must continually work to identify county agent and producer needs that are not being met and develop relative programs and resources. While traditional activities such as conferences, field days, and youth activities are still viable in many areas, specialist must continue to look for new ways to communicate information to producers who are becoming more technologically savvy. In addition to publishing information in newsletters, popular press publications are constantly looking for timely information. The use of blogs and up-to date websites to provide information has increased, but these must be easy to access and utilize so producers are comfortable using them. Decision tools for evaluating different technologies, management practices, etc. are needed as producers work to maintain profitability during periods of low milk prices. Basic training materials and videos for producers to use training new or existing employees are a viable tool. While not a part of most traditional dairy extension programs, it is essential to partner with industry and dairy organization to provide basic information for consumers who have questions about milk production. These activities should be coordinated among the various universities to take advantage of specialist expertise and avoid duplication of effort. As the industry continues to change, dairy extension programing must evolve to meet the needs within the industry as well as those of the consumer.

Key Words: extension, southern region

Speaker Bio
John Bernard is a professor and research, extension, and instruction coordinator in the Department of Animal and Dairy Science at the University of Georgia. He conducts extension and applied research in the areas of nutrition, heat stress abatement, and management.