DairyTalk 252: Why 22 Months Matter: The Economics of First Calving Age - by Helmut Demmelhuber

This article breaks down the often-overlooked economics of heifer
rearing in modern dairy operations. The age at first calving
emerges as a critical profit driver, as every additional day
before calving increases costs without generating income. The
text explains how targeted nutrition, health programs, and
reproductive management can reduce first calving age to 22-23
months. Using practical formulas, producers can calculate their
true replacement needs and avoid the hidden expense of raising
too many heifers. The takeaway is clear: successful heifer
management is built on numbers, discipline, and strategic
planning - not guesswork. With comments on a "Hoard's
Dairyman"-article (January 10th, 2026) by Jud Heinrichs:
https://hoards.com