My research program involves improving utilization of nutrients provided by forages and by-product feeds in dairy rations. Current research projects include effective utilization of winter annual silage in rations, effect of corn hybrid selection and cutting height on production and nutrient metabolism, and effect of coating whole cottonseed with gelatinized corn starch and urea on ruminal fermentation and microbial protein synthesis. The focus of my extension activities is on improving dairy producer returns through the use of good management practices and decision making.
Programming is provided in the areas of nutrition, cow comfort, and production record analysis.
Selected Recent Publications Bernard, J. K., M. C. Calhoun, and S. A. Martin. Effect of coating whole cottonseed on performance of lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci. Bernard, J. K. 1999. Performance of lactating dairy cows fed whole cottonseed coated with gelatinized corn starch.