National Dairy Quality Awards Expands to Include Canadian Dairies in NMC's Strategic Outreach
Source: The DairyNews
The National Mastitis Council (NMC) has announced an expansion of its National Dairy Quality Awards (NDQA) program to include both Canadian and United States dairy operations, as part of its strategic plan to reach a broader geographical audience. Previously limited to U.S. dairies, the prestigious program now welcomes nominations from Canadian producers as well, with a deadline set for August 31.
The NDQA program recognizes excellence in milk quality, specifically targeting dairy producers who achieve low somatic cell counts (SCC) and low standard plate counts (SPC). The evaluation process also includes assessments of each dairy’s udder health monitoring systems, milking routines, and protocols for the detection and treatment of both clinical and subclinical mastitis. Judges look for effective strategies promoting overall herd health and animal welfare.
Dairy industry professionals, including veterinarians, extension agents, dairy processor field staff, and consultants, are urged to nominate herds that demonstrate exceptional milk quality standards. However, dairy producers are not permitted to nominate themselves or their peers. Nominations can be made by visiting the NMC’s website at National Mastitis Council’s NDQA Nomination and completing the online form.
The nomination form requires detailed information on the herd, including size, rolling herd average for milk, fat, and protein, Dairy Herd Improvement (DHI) testing, SCC and SPC averages, and frequency of bulk tank SCC and SPC testing. Additional data on clinical mastitis incidence, culling, and cow mortality rates are also required, reflecting the 12-month period from June 1, 2023, to May 31, 2024.
From the nominations, approximately 50 finalists will be selected. These finalists, along with their nominators, will be asked to complete a detailed final application. Ultimately, operations will be ranked as Platinum, Gold, or Silver. Platinum winners will receive international recognition, complimentary lodging and registration, and a travel stipend to attend the NMC’s 64th Annual Meeting, scheduled for January 27-30, 2025, at the Le Meridien-Sheraton in Charlotte, N.C., USA.
This expansion reflects NMC’s commitment to promoting high standards across North America’s dairy industry, recognizing top performers in milk quality on an international stage.
Dairy industry professionals, including veterinarians, extension agents, dairy processor field staff, and consultants, are urged to nominate herds that demonstrate exceptional milk quality standards. However, dairy producers are not permitted to nominate themselves or their peers. Nominations can be made by visiting the NMC’s website at National Mastitis Council’s NDQA Nomination and completing the online form.
The nomination form requires detailed information on the herd, including size, rolling herd average for milk, fat, and protein, Dairy Herd Improvement (DHI) testing, SCC and SPC averages, and frequency of bulk tank SCC and SPC testing. Additional data on clinical mastitis incidence, culling, and cow mortality rates are also required, reflecting the 12-month period from June 1, 2023, to May 31, 2024.
From the nominations, approximately 50 finalists will be selected. These finalists, along with their nominators, will be asked to complete a detailed final application. Ultimately, operations will be ranked as Platinum, Gold, or Silver. Platinum winners will receive international recognition, complimentary lodging and registration, and a travel stipend to attend the NMC’s 64th Annual Meeting, scheduled for January 27-30, 2025, at the Le Meridien-Sheraton in Charlotte, N.C., USA.
This expansion reflects NMC’s commitment to promoting high standards across North America’s dairy industry, recognizing top performers in milk quality on an international stage.
