As U.S. dairy producers continue to breed cows that produce more milk, some folks think we may be pushing things too far. Temple Grandin, animal scientist and animal welfare specialist, Colorado State University, is one of them. She shared her comments with Roberto A. Ferdman, a Wonkblog reporter for The Washington Post.
Source: The Washington Post, April 21, 2016.
With bottom lines in mind, the industry has long pushed to get more out of its four-legged employees. For many years, that meant operational tweaks, such as changing barn design, altering what cows were fed and being fussy about things such as milking schedules. But more recently, it has meant screwing with the actual anatomy of the animals.
INSIGHTS: There’s nothing inherently inaccurate about what Ferdman has written. And, it’s important to call out questionable practices in any situation. However, Grandin’s perspective is front and center; presented with only a smidgen of counterpoint from Jamie Jonker with the National Milk Producers Federation. Rather than help facilitate a conversation about genetic choices and the benefits they offer producers and consumers, the writer gives the last word to Grandin. It remains up to each of us to help ensure our customers and their clients understand the full perspective of livestock operations.
Note: Congratulations to Grandin are in order. She was one of 213 new members elected to the distinguished American Academy of Arts and Sciences last week, CSU announced.