THE ADOPTION OF AN ON-FARM CULTURE PROGRAM BY SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED DAIRIES IN PENNSYLVANIA TO MAKE PROACTIVE DECISIONS REGARDING TREATMENT.
Extension Education
Amber Yutzy
Assistant Director of Animal Systems Programs
PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
James Creek
Abstract
Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland. Clinical mastitis is one of the most costly diseases affecting the dairy industry, with recent estimates of $231-$289 loss per case. Producers suffer losses due to reduced production, discarded milk, culls, and antibiotic use. Mastitis is associated with the most frequent antibiotic use on a dairy. The objectives for this program is to have dairy producers increase their knowledge of mastitis causing bacteria, decrease the number of cases of clinical mastitis and implement the use of “on-farm” culturing. Participants will be educated on the importance of knowing what types of bacterial pathogens cause mastitis on their farm and how to effectively treat bacteria for increased chance of cure. Participants will also be given the tools to identify bacteria growth using the Penn State Quad-Plate. Education will be delivered through one day workshops, field days, and interaction with producers. NE SARE funds were made available through a partnership grant to involve eight producers across the state in this project. These farms have implemented “on-farm” culturing and are tracking clinical mastitis, bacteria identification, treatment methods and cure rates. This program has reached a total of 419 participants with 80% (N=124) indicating the intent to implement “on-farm” culturing on their farm. A six month follow up evaluation was implemented by phone indicating that 100% (N=12) of participants implemented “on- farm” culturing to manage mastitis. 100% (N=12) decreased the number of cases of clinical mastitis and 75% (N=12) decreased the use of antibiotics on their farm.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: A. Yutzy
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Yutzy, A. Associate Extension Educator, PENN STATE UNIVERSITY, Pennsylvania, 16652