Identifying potential problem areas to improve health and safety. In a nutshell, that is what a HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) does.  The importance of an on-farm HACCP program in producing high quality milk is covered in a brief article by Peter Wareing - On farm HACCP for milk production . For a more detailed example, along with step by step discussion of producing a HACCP, read the article by Mary Falk, Wisconsin (USA) cheesemaker - Developing a HACCP Program.

Anyone interested in developing a HACCP for their own operation may also wish to read previously posted papers concerning Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Many producers use SOPs to ensure animal health; however, they are also useful in assuring the production of high quality milk and beef. Three excellent SOP papers on the site are authored by Richard Stup. You can find them by looking under Topics > SOPs >>

The importance of SOPs and HACCP is illustrated in a new article from Calving Ease by Sam Leadley which is titled "Holes in Biosecurity". Are there holes in your calf biosecurity program? If so, they can quickly cause big problems in your herd.

Interested in dairying around the world? Read about the rapidly evolving dairy industry in India in "Country Reports:India", a tie-stall dairy in Canada, Hamming Holsteins, and a freestall dairy that has been undergoing internal expansion in the Northern US, Arrowhead farms.

We are starting a new section this month titled "Dairy Farm Tips" which will contain useful ideas and procedures for dairy producers. The first two Tips sections will concern calves and nutrition. Feel free to submit your own on these or other topics. Contact us>>