Merck Animal Health, an IGA Red Oval Partner, works with farms at the forefront of sustainable practices. One of those farms, W Dairy LLC in Madison, Georgia, uses Merck's technology to reduce feed waste, keep cattle comfortable, and recycle water to ensure a sustainable operation.
IGA CEO John Ross visited W Dairy to speak with Everett Williams and Merck Animal Health about blending cutting-edge technology with a commitment to environmental responsibility. Their innovative approach not only ensures efficient milk production but also promotes the health and well-being of their cattle, the environment, and the dairy industry at large.
Watch the video for highlights from Ross' visit and interviews.
W Dairy minimizes feed waste using advanced software and expert-designed diets. A dairy nutritionist crafts a balanced diet tailored to the cows' needs, which is input into their system daily. Real-time adjustments are made based on inventory and cow consumption, ensuring precise feeding with minimal waste.
Water conservation is central to W Dairy’s operations. Clean gray water from their manure system is used to flush free-stall barns, while lake water powers sprinklers during hot weather. A gravity-based manure system efficiently collects and pumps water for reuse, maintaining a sustainable water cycle.
Animal comfort is a priority at W Dairy. Free-stall barns are equipped with fans and misters controlled by thermostats, which adjust as temperatures rise. Monitoring collars provide data on the cows, enabling tailored cooling practices that ensure optimal well-being and productivity.
Cows at W Dairy enjoy 24/7 access to free-choice feed, supported by feed software that ensures a constant supply of fresh, nutritious feed. By maintaining a small percentage of leftover feed each day, the dairy achieves both sustainability and consistent nutrition for its herd.
As highlighted by Rick DeLuca, CEO of Merck Animal Health, W Dairy exemplifies how technology can transform farming. Advanced data systems allow farmers to monitor milk production, track animal health, and detect potential issues in real-time. This integration of technology not only improves efficiency but also enhances animal welfare and product quality.
W Dairy’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond environmental stewardship — it’s a cornerstone of their business strategy. By optimizing resources and leveraging technology, they produce more milk with fewer animals, ensuring long-term viability for the family farm. Their dedication to health, efficiency, and innovation positions them as a leader in sustainable dairy farming.
Sustainability isn’t just about today — it’s about building a legacy. By investing in advanced practices and technology, W Dairy ensures their operations remain viable for future generations. Their ability to produce more with less exemplifies the potential of technology to create smarter, safer, and more efficient food systems.
W Dairy’s story is a testament to the transformative power of technology in agriculture. Their efforts to balance environmental responsibility with business success highlight a promising path forward for the dairy industry and beyond. This journey reflects a broader trend of innovation across the value chain, making food production smarter and more sustainable for the world’s growing population.