Starting a 75-cow intensive rotational grazing dairy

"Original authors: Joe Horner, Ryan Milhollin, Stacey Hamilton, Wayne Prewitt and Tony Rickard, University of Missouri.""This guide examines the financial feasibility of starting a 75-cow intensive rotational grazing dairy in Missouri. Data presented here reflect costs and conditions as of June 2020. This model was developed using assumptions, costs and benchmarking information from existing Missouri pasture-based dairies and dairy industry experts. While this farm was customized specific to Missouri, it could be adapted to conditions elsewhere. The model dairy farm is designed to use labor and capital as efficiently as possible. Continued interest in the feasibility of starting a 75-cow grazing dairy operated by a husband and wife team instigated the development of this model farm. Users are cautioned to carefully examine the long term viability of this sized farm in their region. Rapid consolidation in dairy farming, reduced market access and increased milk hauling costs may limit long term viability of this sized model."--First page.Revised by: Joe Horner (State Specialist, Agricultural Business and Policy Extension), Ryan Milhollin (State Specialist, Agricultural Business and Policy Extension), Stacey Hamilton (State Dairy Specialist)New 7/11; Revised 7/2