2.3 LACTATIONS
The average productive life of cows in the U.S. is 2.3 lactations. Research shows that cows reach their greatest productive potential in the third and fourth lactation. As dairies optimize their heifer inventories and have less replacements available,
there is an opportunity for herds to retain older cows. Historically, older cows have been more challenging to manage, but with genetic emphasis on health and wellness traits, these cows can be more physically fit and trouble-free to maximize productive
life and achieve a greater return on investment.