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Dairy Heifer Planning Budget

Revised

Editor’s note
The following abstract describes a publication that is only available as a downloadable PDF.

See the Missouri Dairy Budgets (XLSX) for related information.

Ryan Milhollin
Assistant Extension Professor, Agricultural Business and Policy

Scott Poock
Extension Professor, Veterinary Medicine and Surgery

Stacey Hamilton
Extension Specialist, Animal Sciences

Reagan Bluel
Field Specialist in Dairy

Chloe Collins
Field Specialist in Dairy

Abstract

Using this planning budget, farmers raising dairy heifers may estimate their costs and returns for 2026. Table 1 presents estimates for dairy calves purchased at birth, bred and sold at 24 months in Missouri. Assumptions were based on price forecasts in October 2025. Inputs and feed requirements are summarized in Tables 2 and 3. Use the “Your estimate” column to plan your operation’s costs and returns for 2026.

Topics

  • Dairy heifer
  • Farm budget

Pages

  • 2