When he began dairying in 1968, he had a rolling herd average of 10,000 pounds. Today, he maintains a yearly rolling herd average of 20,000 pounds milk with an average herd size of 110 cows. Mr. Alford is a progressive and innovative dairyman who pays close attention to the nutrition and general management of his cows. Hay is available free choice year round. Pasture represents a major portion of the herds forage program.
Some fields are over seeded with osceola or bigbee clover for early spring grazing.
During the summer months, cows are grazed on permanent Paraguay and Argentina bahia pasture. A stock pond provides water as well as serving as a cooling pond during the hot summer months. Mr. Alford has been a strong proponent of artificial insemination. All cows on the dairy are bred by artificial insemination and the dairy participates in a young sire program. Cows are evaluated yearly and computer mating is used to recommend appropriate sires.