
The cost of raising dairy calves and replacement heifers is very significant on Wisconsin dairy farms. Calculating the costs associated with raising dairy calves and heifers is an essential part of dairy business management. To augment individual dairy calf and heifer cost of production analysis, the dairy industry also requires a set of benchmark cost of production data in which individual business costs and labor and management efficiencies can be compared.
It has been over 10 years since Wisconsin’s last heifer-raising cost survey. To manage a dairy business effectively today, you need modern benchmarks that reflect current economic realities.
The UW–Madison Extension Dairy Program invites you to participate in our new survey to evaluate economic costs and labor efficiencies for herd replacements.
Why participate?
- Get Benchmarks: Help create the data you need to compare your costs against state averages.
- Free Analysis: If you need help completing the survey, our Dairy Educators will provide you with a free, personalized financial analysis of your operation.
Take the Survey Here: Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management
If you would prefer an on-farm meeting to walk through the data together, please contact the UW-Madison Extension Dairy Program to schedule a visit with your dairy educator or a specialist.

