NY dairy farms find success crossing beef with dairy cattle

By Blake Jackson

Dairy farmers in New York are turning to an innovative strategy to boost their income: crossbreeding beef cattle with their dairy cows. This approach capitalizes on the current shortage of beef cattle in the U.S., leading to significantly higher calf prices.

Previously, male dairy calves held little value, sometimes even resulting in a loss for farmers. Bruce Gibson, owner of Locust Hill Dairy, recalls times when these calves "were so worthless" farms received bills for taking them to market. However, since their shift to breeding beef sires with Holsteins in 2018, the picture has changed dramatically.

Thanks to the beef shortage, crossbred calves now fetch premium prices. Gibson highlights a recent sale of a three-day-old calf for a staggering $1,100, compared to the $150-$180 they received earlier.

This newfound revenue stream offers a lifeline to New York dairy farms facing economic hardship. Milk prices haven't kept pace with rising costs, and income from dairy products is projected to decline by $900 million in 2024.

Locust Hill Dairy, a large operation milking nearly 4,800 cows, collaborates with a genetics company to select specific beef semen for crossbreeding. The key difference between beef and dairy cows lies in how they utilize energy. Dairy cows convert energy into milk production, while beef breeds are designed for efficient muscle growth.

This difference also affects the meat's appearance for consumers. Betsy Hicks, a dairy specialist, explains that crossbred cattle produce meat with superior visual appeal. "The meat retains its vibrant color longer," she says, unlike dairy beef that oxidizes more quickly and loses its redness.

But the benefits extend beyond aesthetics. Hicks points out that while Holsteins contribute desirable marbling, their meat can be oddly shaped. Crossbreeding with Angus cattle creates a winning combination, offering excellent marbling, tenderness, and a more pleasing shape.

Currently, most crossbred calves are shipped to the Midwest and Texas for finishing. However, Hicks sees potential for keeping them in the Northeast. "There's a huge opportunity to raise them here profitably," she suggests.

This innovative approach by New York dairy farmers demonstrates the adaptability and resourcefulness of the agricultural industry. By leveraging crossbreeding and capitalizing on market trends, they're securing a more sustainable future for their operations.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-peopleimages