Ernie and Jolene Prescher
Windhorst, Texas

"POSlLAC has been an important part of helping us maintain our production and profitability during tough times," according to Ernie and Jolene Prescher of Windthorst, Texas. They supplement cows with POSlLAC during the ninth week and suggest the key is to be consistent with supplementation.

The Preschers milk 189 Holstein cows and have a rolling herd average of 27,717 pounds of milk. Average summer production is 83 pounds per cow per day. Estimated response to POSlLAC during the summer months is seven pounds per day. Other times of the year it runs at an eight pound increase per cow per day. Milking is completed in a double six herringbone three times a day.

There are several ways to maintain dry matter intake during the summer months, according to the Preschers. They feel good quality alfalfa is most important. They feed alfalfa outside in bunks moved closer to the shades so the cows don't have to walk so much. The feeding schedule is moved to earlier in the morning and later in the evening. Grain is fed in the barn and wheat hay is also available free choice outside.

Cooling the cows is also important when it is hot. They make sure cows have plenty of extra water available by supplying extra water troughs. Additional cooling is accomplished with the use of shades in the feeding area, close-ups and sick pen. Extra soaking with misters and sprinklers is done prior to milking in the holding area and as cows go through the exit alley.

The Preschers feel that working closely with their nutritionist and veterinarian also helps maintain DMI during the summer months and throughout the year.