The 10th Northern New York Dairy Institute focusing on quality milk production graduated 45 individuals representing 30 dairy farms in St. Lawrence and nearby counties, and results were almost immediate.

Graduates participated in three sessions over the last few months focusing on mammary anatomy and physiology, economics, mastitis organisms, cow comfort, culturing, equipment maintenance and record keeping, according to a news release from the institute.

Twelve of the 30 participating farms reported making management changes after the first two sessions. Seventeen farms reported a decrease in herd somatic cell count from session one to three, a positive indicator of milk quality and animal health.

The program was developed after research sponsored by the Northern New York Agricultural Development Program and the Miner Enhancement Fund determined there was a need for programs focusing on milk quality and milk production on small farms in Northern New York.