"Cows who are in great health, make great milk." -Casey Dugan, Desperado Dairy

Cow care is truly top of mind in everything our member dairy farmers do. From working closely with veterinarians and nutritionists on cow health and diets, to maintaining a clean and efficient farm operation, this is a 365-day-a-year, 7-days-a-week, 24-hours-a-day type of responsibility.

But what happens in the summer when temperatures sky rocket? How do our member's dairy cows cope with the heat?

Here is a glimpse of what some UDA dairy farmers are doing when it comes to technology and keeping cows cool in the summer. 

• With expansive shades, automated misting systems and large fans, the temperatures stay cool and range between 70 and 80 degrees in the summer!
• During milking, pens are groomed to pull wet dirt out from the shade and replace it with soft dry dirt. This keeps cows cleaner and is more comfortable to lay on.
• Food is usually served under shades to keep the cows cool while they are enjoying their meals.
• Milking barns are also equipped with misters to keep cows comfortable while getting milked.

So no matter how hot we get this summer, Arizona cows will be kept cool and comfortable.