June, known as National Dairy Month, is a time to celebrate the vital contributions of the dairy industry. In Carlton County, Minnesota, there is even more reason to rejoice this year as local dairy producer Don Anderson receives recognition from the state's Commissioner of Agriculture, Thom Peterson. Anderson's exceptional herd management skills have earned him a spot on the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's annual list of dairy herds with low somatic cell counts (SCC).
With only 93 herds statewide making this esteemed list, Anderson's achievement highlights his dedication to maintaining an average SCC of under 100,000 or lower throughout the previous year. With over six decades of experience in dairy farming, Anderson has devoted his life to providing high-quality dairy products while prioritizing the health and well-being of his herd.
Somatic cell counts are indicators of milk quality and animal health, with lower SCC numbers correlating to longer milk shelf life and enhanced flavor. Furthermore, low SCC values contribute to the production of superior cheese and signify the overall health of the animals. For additional information on reducing somatic cell counts in milk, refer to the University of Minnesota Extension https://extension.umn.edu/dairy-milking-cows/dairy-somatic-cell-counts
Photo Credit: GettyImages-R-J-Seymour
Categories: Minnesota, Livestock, Dairy Cattle