Study Shows Small Midwest Farms Lose more Milk to Heat Stress
New research from the University of Illinois shows that extreme heat is reducing milk yields on dairy farms, especially those with smaller herds. On average, farms lose 1% of milk annually due to heat stress. However, smaller operations lose closer to 2%.
The study used both temperature and humidity to measure heat stress impacts. It focused on nine farms across the Midwest, a region known for having smaller dairy herds of 100 to 200 cows. Researchers say this is the first study to track and compare milk production across farms in the same climate zone.
Marin Skidmore, study co-author, explained the serious effects heat stress has on cows—leading to restlessness, lower appetite, and infection risks. “To some extent, it's only 1.6%. But if you're really making every dollar from your paycheck count, because you're living in a time with high costs, then 1.6% of your paycheck being gone in a given year is meaningful,” she stated.
The study predicts that in the next 25 years, milk yield losses could increase by 30% as extreme heat days become more common. Researchers also noted that larger farms appear more resistant to heat stress than smaller ones, which feel the impact sooner.
Skidmore expressed concern over the growing number of small dairy farm closures. To help small farms cope, recommendations include changes in feeding and calving schedules, better ventilation, and use of sprinklers. However, such measures often require significant investments.
Skidmore emphasized that access to financial aid is essential for small farmers. Grants or loans could allow them to adopt technologies and stay competitive in a warming climate.