MISSISSIPPI STATE -- The program for the upcoming Statewide Dairy Field Day reflects that successful dairy producers must be up-to-date on a wide variety of topics from herd health and nutrition to financial management, all at the same time.

Mississippi State University's annual dairy event will take place on May 27 at the Buddy and Neville Rials dairy farm in western Marion County. Registration and exhibits will open at 8:30 a.m., one hour before the program begins.

The morning program will include Dr. Jim Watson, state veterinarian, discussing critical national issues affecting the Southern dairy industry. Dr. Doug Hostetler, assistant professor with MSU's College of Veterinary Medicine, will demonstrate first-aid for cattle's feet.

Other topics to be addressed include coccidiosis in dairy calves, corn grazing as a summer feeding option, milk production and changes in intramuscular fat, which will be an ultrasound demonstration.

The featured presentation will be "Reducing the Risk of Low Milk Prices" by Tom Gaughan, a partner with the nation's largest brokerage firm handling milk futures and options. His firm, Downes-O'Neill, LLC is located in Chicago and specializes in dairy markets and products using futures, options and forward contracting to manage risks.

The Rials' dairy farm is located near Walthall County off of Highway 586. Turn south on Darbun Road and drive about 1 mile before turning right on Bennett Road. Continue down the road for another mile. Signs will be posted.

For more information, contact Angelica Chapa at (662) 325-7465 or by e-mail at [email protected], or contact Wesley Farmer at (601) 835-3460 or by e-mail at [email protected].