AgSource Dairy Herd Improvement Testing
By AgSource Cooperative Services
Last reviewed: December 2025
AgSource provides comprehensive DHI testing services including milk component analysis, SCC monitoring, and herd health diagnostics for dairy management...
Overview
AgSource Cooperative Services is one of the largest dairy herd improvement (DHI) testing organizations in the United States, providing essential data services that help dairy producers make informed management decisions.
Core Testing Services
Production Testing
Health Monitoring
Genetic Testing
Testing Frequencies
| Service Level | Testing Interval |
|---------------|-----------------|
| Standard DHI | Monthly |
| Component only | Monthly |
| Owner-sampler | Monthly |
| Management only | As needed |
Data Delivery
Test results are available through:
Herd Management Reports
AgSource provides comprehensive reports including:
Field Services
AgSource technicians provide on-farm support including:
Integration with Herd Management Software
Test results integrate with major herd management platforms for seamless data flow into farm decision-making processes.
Key Features
- Production Recording: Accurate milk weights and component percentages for every cow
- Somatic Cell Testing: Individual cow SCC to monitor udder health trends
- MUN Analysis: Milk urea nitrogen testing to evaluate protein feeding efficiency
- Management Reports: Comprehensive herd reports for informed decision-making
- Genomic Coordination: Sample collection and logistics for genetic testing
- Official Records: USDA-certified records for breed association programs
Ideal For
Farm Types: Commercial dairy operations, Registered breeding herds, Herds pursuing genomic improvement, Operations selling breeding stock
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for Dairy Herd Improvement Testing:
DHI testing includes component analysis, SCC, and production records through cooperative services.
Pricing Model: Per-test and subscription pricing
Contact AgSource at 1-800-236-4995 for regional pricing.
Pros & Considerations
- Objective third-party data for unbiased herd evaluation
- Consistent testing methodology across months and years
- Comprehensive reporting packages
- Integration with breeding and genomic programs
- Official records for breed association requirements
- Monthly testing only captures snapshot, not daily variation
- Requires consistent participation for trend analysis
- Testing fees add to operating costs
- Requires coordination with field technicians
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating Dairy Herd Improvement Testing:
- What management decisions do you want data to support?
- Do you need official records for breed associations?
- How frequently do you want to test (monthly, bimonthly)?
- What components are most important to test (SCC, MUN, etc.)?
- How will you use the data in your management program?
- Do you need genomic testing coordination?
- What reporting format works best for your operation?
- What is your budget for testing services?