Rensselaer County CCE Dairy

Extension Team Coordinator: Cathy Wickswat

518-272-4210 ext 112

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Dairy Farm Business Summary- The Dairy Farm Business Summary is intended to help farm managers improve the business and financial management of their dairy farm through appropriate use of historical farm data and the application of modern farm business analysis techniques. This information can also be used to track changes within the business, establish goals that will enable the business to better meet its objectives, compare the performance of the farm to other dairy producers, and establish a basis for financial projection of planned changes within the business.
Who uses it? Most top farmers in our county participate in the program.
What they do? Each farm must gather certain financial and managerial documents to be handed over to the Farm Management Educator for entry and analysis. Once this step is done, all information is turned over to Cornell University where regional and state averages and comparisons are calculated. (Each step involves the strictest confidentiality and professionalism)
What reports do I need in order to participate? Cash receipts and expenses, accounts payable and receivable, beginning and year end balance sheets, depreciation information, land resource and use, feed and supply inventory, livestock inventory, and machinery and equipment inventory.
What does my farm get out of it? A comprehensive report which includes profitability, liquidity, solvency, labor and capital efficiency, dairy and cropping enterprise analysis. You will be able to answer questions such as these: What is the effect of key expenses, production levels and price risk on the profitability on the farm business? Is production being maximized while controlling expenses? Does the business generate adequate returns to the resources allotted to it? Are accounts payable and debt payments creating a cash flow burden?
How can I start participating? Contact your local Farm Management/Dairy Educator for more details.

PC Dart-    Provides a comprehensive herd analysis & management report including production, reproduction, genetics, udder health, & feed cost info. All compiled data result from input on barn sheet forms submitted by DHI tech or farmer on test day. (once a month)
How does it work?    You and your farm must be working with DHI in order to get results from this program.
How do I get signed up?     If your farm is not currently receiving any PC Dart analysis, contact your local extension agent to find out how to get started.

Last updated 7/17/02