Appraising the use of technology and production practices on Vermont dairy farms.

USDA-Hatch.

As UVM Extension enters the 21st century, there is a need to have indepth knowledge on the state's dairy industry for program direction. This study will collect information on dairy farm production practices, technology use, operator demographics, and satisfaction. Vermont's dairy farms average 115 cows producing 17,357 lbs. On the technology side, 47% use DHIA, 39% use computers and 67% use manure storage. Only 11% of the farms reported using bST but these farms produce 37% of the milk. Farmers average age 49 with 54% farming more than 20 years, 45% had education beyond high school, and only 16% had high debt. Farmers were least satisfied with time away from the farm and profit. Milk price and real estate taxes were the greatest future concern. The survey results are used to direct UVM Extension programming needs as well as serve other parties interested in Vermont's dairy farmers. (R. Parsons) Project members: Parsons