What goes into my feed truck?
To answer a frequently-asked-question, we feed our girls a Total Mixed Ration (TMR), which is a combination of feed ingredients to make up a balanced meal to feed the cows. A TMR helps a dairy cow achieve maximum performance and health. The goal is to have the cows consume as close to their actual energy requirements as possible and maintain the physical or roughage characteristics required for proper rumen function.
We work with a ruminant nutritionist, which is someone who is trained and educated to determine feed rations, conduct research and consult farmers and ranchers regarding feed practices for their animals.
Our nutritionist frequently walks the herd to ensure the cows have a good body condition score. He tests all of the feed ingredients to ensure we know the actual protein, fat, and energy contents and ensure the diet is balanced.
In the video below, I share what exactly goes into our TMR.
Source: PennState Extension
