Sustainability

In addition to producing milk, many Ontario dairy farms grow hay and grains to feed their herds. Perennial crops, such as alfalfa and grass, can help stabilize soil while transferring carbon from the air, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

The three Rs of conservation are as important on the farm as they are in your home. Water used to clean feed alleys in the barn is often reused to irrigate crops, and cow manure is used as fertilizer.

Methane, a greenhouse gas, is a natural by-product of a cow's digestive process. Ongoing research and innovation in the areas of breeding and nutrition have helped reduce the amount of methane cows produce, while helping increase their milk production. The overall goal is to have less methane produced per litre of milk.

Protecting the herd from animal diseases is an important part of running a safe and healthy farm. Dairy farmers follow strict guidelines developed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to help reduce the risk of infection. These include twice daily cleaning procedures, segregation of newly arrived cows, and sanitary protocols for visitors.