The University of Georgia Research Foundation (UGA Research Foundation) was awarded a $300,000 Project Grant from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) program. The grant, which runs from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027, supports research to develop alternative dry-off management practices for dairy cows that can reduce antibiotic usage while maintaining herd health and productivity. The key objectives are to 1) determine the effects of reduced milking frequency and dry cow vaccine administration on stress, inflammation, immunity, and intramammary infection in dairy cows, and 2) develop an extension program to educate dairy producers, veterinarians, and industry stakeholders on judicious antibiotic use and these research findings. This project aims to provide viable alternatives to blanket dry cow therapy, thereby improving animal welfare and the sustainability of dairy farming operations.
Mod # | Description | Reason For Modification | Federal Obligation (Click to sort descending) | Date (Click to sort ascending) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not listed | $300.0k | 6/4/24 |