To establish a baseline understanding of feeding practices on Canadian dairies, a survey was distributed online to dairy producers. Responses were split into three categories as follows: western provinces (Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan; n = 84), Ontario freestall farms (n = 75), and Ontario tiestall farms (n = 71). Regional differences were observed for many feed ingredients; for example, corn and soybean meal were more commonly used in Ontario, while barley, wheat products, and grass hays were more commonly used in the western provinces (P ≤ 0.01), consistent with local production of those crops. Producers ranked the most important factors in balancing rations in the following order: production (lactating cattle or heifers) or health (dry cows), cost, simplicity, and nutrient management; however, nutrient management was more important in the west for all types of diets (P < 0.01). Most farms frequently tested for ration dry matter and nutrient composition, although Ontario tiestall farms tested less often than other groups (P = 0.09). Overall, feeds aligned with common crops grown within region. Canadian farmers have a stated interest for improving production and health and place less emphasis on other factors such as cost, simplicity, and nutrient management.
Impact of calf feeding practices on calf growth and health in smallholder dairy farms in Nyeri County, Kenya