By Melissa Holtz, National Sales, Land O’Lakes Animal Milk Products Co.
It may be hard to believe, but spring is just around the corner. It is time to start thinking about using an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program this summer. In Minnesota, we need to start these programs mid-April or about 30 days before the last killing frost. Early control of the fly population will help ensure the lowest numbers on the farm.
In previous issues, we’ve explained how well Clarifly® works to help control the fly population in your calf huts, barns, and just in general around the farm, when used as a part of an IPM program. This year, we want to share some reasons to consider Clarifly, other than keeping the fly numbers down so everybody is comfortable and happy.
In a dairy, heavy housefly populations can actually cause serious diseases and cost you big money.
According to researchers at Cornell University, “Younger animals are particularly at risk since stress can interfere with early weight gain, resulting in a negative effect on productivity over their lifetime.”
Horn flies are responsible for 30-50% of all heifer mastitis and can carry Staphylococcus aureus, a major cause of mastitis. This can lead to damage of heifers’ udders. It is never good to have heifers start milking with less than four fully functioning teats.
At Munson Lakes Nutrition, Clarifly will be a part of our summer feeding program both in milk replacer and calf feeds. Please see one of our sales representatives for more information and to design a program that best fits your operation.
With good help, Bruce and Jill Boettcher have been able to grow and maintain a very good family-owned dairy. Read how
Now you can access your Munson Lakes Nutrition account online. Just click on the FarmerData logo. Registration is easy, but if you encounter a problem, call us at 800-245-7717. We will walk you through the process. Country Store News
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Flies Cost Big Money
