The UF/IFAS Animal Sciences Dairy Production Conference has traditionally been held in Gainesville, attracting students, industry professionals, and dairy producers from around the state. But as dairy operations across the state and region grew busier and more geographically dispersed, attendance from producers, herd managers, and farm staff began to decline. Rather than let distance become a barrier, UF/IFAS Animal Sciences and Extension faculty reimagined the conference, taking it directly to the heart of dairy country in Florida and South Georgia.

This year’s conference unfolded over two consecutive days in Okeechobee, Florida, and Tifton, Georgia, drawing producers, students, and industry professionals from both regions. Attendees represented farms managing more than 50,000 dairy cows, along with numerous allied industry partners who support daily on-farm operations. Animal Science Ambassador Jenna Larson documented the event through an Animal Sciences Instagram takeover, giving followers an inside look at the conference experience.

But as dairy operations across the state and region grew busier and more geographically dispersed, attendance from producers, herd managers, and farm staff began to decline. Rather than let distance become a barrier, UF/IFAS Animal Sciences and Extension faculty reimagined the conference, taking it directly to the heart of dairy country in Florida and South Georgia.

This year’s conference unfolded over two consecutive days in Okeechobee, Florida, and Tifton, Georgia, drawing producers, students, and industry professionals from both regions. Attendees represented farms managing more than 50,000 dairy cows, along with numerous allied industry partners who support daily on-farm operations.

Speakers delivered timely insights spanning production, genetics, and technology. Dr. Michael Hutjens examined strategies to improve milk components through targeted ration formulation. Dr. Geoff Dahl highlighted research from University of Georgia researcher Dr. Sha Tao on optimizing transition cow management. Dr. Izabella Toledo showcased smart cooling technologies that enhance cow comfort while conserving water. The program concluded with Dr. José E.P. Santos, who discussed the use of a maternal bovine appeasing substance to mitigate stress in dairy cattle and shared multi-university initiatives aimed at improving sustainability across the industry.

In all, the 2025 Dairy Production Conference brought fresh energy, new ideas, and renewed connection to the region’s dairy community. By meeting producers where they are, UF/IFAS strengthened its partnership with the industry and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the future of dairy production—one farm, one innovation, and one conversation at a time.

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