A second question concerns how a herd has performed over a period of time. A series of 19 graphs shows management trends for the past 18 months. Graphs provide the opportunity to quickly isolate management trends as well as further investigate weaknesses uncovered by the comparison report. A three-month herd summary report summarizes specific management variables in an attempt to answer questions related to current herd performance. It provides a framework for discussion of current management concerns.
Agents are responsible for contacting interested producers.
Since few counties have a large number of dairies, direct mail and personal contact work best. A brochure summarizes key aspects of the program. Agents schedule sessions at 90-minute intervals, usually in the county Extension office, although some meetings have been held at the farm. A schedule listing producer's name, time of session and any specific management concerns is mailed to the specialist, preferably a week before the meeting. Agents are encouraged to call each producer the day before the sessions as a reminder.