ALBERT DE VRIES, DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL SCIENCES, UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

Research (50%)
My research interests are in quantitative dairy systems management, including optimization of cow culling and replacement strategies under herd constraints, economics of reproductive strategies, productive life, animal health economics, statistical process control, and business analysis.  I am interested in both methodological and applied aspects. The research activities are part of Multi-state Program NC-1119. Students looking for graduate work in this exciting field are encouraged to inquire about openings.

Extension (40%)
My extension program is based on my research interests and part of the UF/IFAS Animal Sciences / Forages Commodity Focus Team. The business analysis efforts are centered around the Florida/Georgia Dairy Business Analysis Project.  I also believe in making dairy extension efforts and information available on the internet.  Visit the Florida Dairy Extension website, which I maintain.  I also edit the Department of Animal Sciences quarterly dairy newsletter Dairy Update.

Teaching (10%)
I teach ANS 4252C, Dairy Management Systems, in the Spring semester.  This is the undergraduate capstone course for the Dairy Option - Animal Industry Specialization of the major in Animal Sciences.  The course is centered on giving students a better understanding of the dairy farm as a business.  Major themes are evaluation of production and financial performance, analysis of investment opportunities, development of a business plan, as well as selected topics in housing, reproduction, health, and replacement.  Check the latest syllabus and course schedule.