By Allie Heastont
The second meeting of the Haldimand 4-H Dairy Calf Club was held at the DeBoer’s dairy farm on Tuesday, April 22, 2024, becoming an informative and engaging evening. The meeting kicked off with a warm welcoming from the leaders, followed with an overview of the night’s agenda.
The first exercise of the night was a judging challenge. Arthur DeBoer explained to the group what one must look for while judging cows. He shared his expertise on evaluating cows based on specific criteria. Club members learned desirable traits of cattle conformation and insights on what to avoid while choosing an animal. Experienced and less experienced members grouped off, exchanging their reasons, tips, and opinions.
Additionally, representing Grand Valley Fortifiers, Hannah Simpson came to address the group on calf nutrition. She discussed optimal diets for young calves and explored adjustments to feeding programs as well as other strategies for calf health.
Meanwhile, in Arthur’s feed room, members learned how to create TMR (total mixed ration) for maximum milk production by blending various ingredients. The meeting concluded with a recitation of the 4-H pledge, while members enjoyed snacks and refreshments. Overall, the meeting have valuable insights into dairy nutrition.
The third meeting of the Haldimand 4-H Dairy Calf Club took place Tuesday, May 27 at 7 p.m. Held at Sara Tiersma’s farm, the meeting focused on preparing members for the annual Haldimand 4-H judging competition.
The club was divided into three groups, rotating through a series of objects to judge. Heather Cox was the guest speaker of the night, and she demonstrated ways to give reasons while highlighting formality and description. For instance, Heather evaluated a group of 4-H calves, ranging in age.
In addition to calf judging, members assessed bailage, cutting objects, pictures of show cattle, and milking cows. Personal feedback and advice were given, offering room for reflection. The meeting concluded with a brief discussion about selecting a 4-H calf, followed by snacks.
The fourth meeting of the Haldimand 4-H Dairy Calf Club took place at the VanBenthem’s farm on Tuesday, July 9. Beginning promptly at 7 p.m., all members gathered inside the dairy barn.
Dr. Jen Thompson, from Dunnville Veterinary Clinic, led a discussion on breeding and genetics. She began by explaining various parts of a cow’s reproductive system, emphasizing their shapes and sizes. Visual aids, including photos and diagrams, helped members better understand the topics discussed.
Following the informative session, five cows in different stages of pregnancy were lined up. These stages included 36, 37, 48, 71 days and one open cow. Dr. Jen showed the parts she discussed while showing ultrasounds and demonstrated how the size of a calf can vary from a dime to a walnut and, finally, a calf when it comes out at birth.
Afterward, Mr. VanBenthem introduced himself and explained the history of his family’s dairy farm, including why it is the way it is today.
Afterward, the club visited the heifer barn to review training. Members asked questions and reviewed how they felt training was going; this allowed members to exchange advice to overcome challenges. In the end, the club expressed their gratitude to the VanBenthems, adjourning their meeting back in the dairy barn.
