Low bulk-tank SCC doesn’t tell the whole story
A herd with a bulk tank somatic cell count (SCC) of 115,000 would be considered a milk quality success by most industry standards. Yet, a look at this 1,000-cow herd, shows cows with an average lactation somatic cell score (SCS) of 4.0 or greater produced 900 fewer...
Breeding for the future
Located in Waunakee, Wis., Maier Farms is a multi-generational dairy committed to cow longevity and team-driven success. Honored as one of CentralStar’s ReproStar Award winners in 2025, the farm has achieved impressive statistics, including a 42% pregnancy rate, 73%...
Your milk check tells a story
Your milk check isn’t just a number, it reflects cow health, herd management, and genetics. Producers often point to above-average components, low SCC, and residue-free milk as hallmarks of quality.¹ These traits are more than “nice to have,” they drive milk quality...
Keeping rations on point
Your DHI records are more than just numbers, they’re a roadmap for ration and herd management. Butterfat, protein, and the fat-to-protein ratio give early warnings when things aren’t balanced, letting you act before production or cow health suffers. By regularly...
Postpartum research: FerAppease reduces pain, improves health, and production
In a recent University of Florida postpartum study by Santos et al. (2025)*, researchers evaluated the effects of applying a single dose of FerAppease® – a unique analogue of the naturally occurring Maternal Bovine Appeasing Substance (mBAS) – on health, pain and milk...
Pedigree diversity is your best defense to rising inbreeding rates
In a world where genetic-selection intensity is at an all-time high to meet growing consumer demands with fewer resources, maintaining genetic diversity remains a key focus. At CentralStar, we offer a diverse lineup of sires that deliver industry-leading performance...
The cutting-edge of transition health management
The transition period from three weeks pre-calving through three weeks post-calving has been researched and discussed greatly. Rightly so, as this phase accounts for significant health costs and determines production and reproductive success for the current lactation...