Replacement nutrition management.

The basic principles of dairy cow feeding apply equally to the dairy heifer. Ration balancing must be accomplished in order to formulate least-cost, nutrient-balanced rations for each age group of heifers. Forage testing enables rations to be developed that utilize the various quality forages that are available on a farm and allows optimum allocation of forages for maximum profitability of the farm feeding system. In addition to feeding management, housing, ventilation, health care, grouping, cleanliness, and many other management factors can complement a sound heifer nutrition program.