1. Holstein:
   • Origin: Holland
   • Milk Production: Highest milk-producing breed in the world, averaging about 24,500 pounds of milk per year.
   • Milk Composition: 3.7% fat, 3.1% protein.
   • Size: Large; mature cows weigh around 1,500 pounds.
   • Pros: High milk yield, popular and widely available.
   • Cons: Larger frame means higher maintenance and feed costs.
2. Jersey:
   • Origin: Isle of Jersey, off the Normandy region of France.
   • Milk Production: About 18,000 pounds per year.
   • Milk Composition: Higher solids content with 4.8% fat and 3.65% protein.
   • Size: Smaller; mature cows weigh around 1,000 pounds.
   • Pros: Efficient milk production from a smaller frame, high fertility, and easy calving.
   • Cons: Less milk yield compared to Holsteins, but milk is richer in fat and protein.
3. Brown Swiss:
   • Origin: Switzerland.
   • Milk Production: Approximately 18,500 pounds per year.
   • Milk Composition: 4.2% fat, 3.4% protein.
   • Size: Similar in size to Holsteins; mature cows weigh around 1,500 pounds.
   • Pros: High milk solids content, calm and friendly behavior.
   • Cons: Lower milk yield than Holsteins, unique calf management requirements.
4. Other Breeds (Ayrshire, Guernsey, Milking Shorthorn):
   • Together, these represent about 1% of the U.S. dairy cow population.
   • Each breed has its unique strengths but lacks the milk yield or milk solids content needed to compete in large-scale production.
5. Crossbreds:
   • A mix of two or more breeds, representing about 5% of the U.S. dairy cow population.
   • Pros: Can combine attractive characteristics of multiple breeds and benefit from hybrid vigor, which can improve milk production and cow health.
   • Cons: Need to carefully select breeding strategies to maintain desirable traits.

Key Considerations for Your Dairy Business:

1. Breed Selection:
   • Consider breeds that align with your business goals. If you are interested in high milk production and are willing to manage larger cows, Holsteins may be a good fit.
   • If you prefer smaller cows with richer milk that may appeal to specialty markets, Jerseys might be a better choice.
   • Crossbreeding could be a strategy to combine desirable traits, like fertility and high milk solids, but requires careful management.
2. Genomic Technologies and Genetic Selection:
   • Utilizing modern genomic technologies for genetic selection can improve traits such as milk yield, health, and fertility. Consider collaborating with geneticists or dairy experts to implement a robust breeding program.
3. Farm Setup and Management:
   • Since you’re considering buying a farm in Pescadero, look for farms that have the infrastructure to support the breed of cattle you choose.
   • Consider the local climate, feed availability, and whether the existing facilities are suitable for your chosen breed(s).
4. Market and Business Model:
   • Decide whether you want to focus on high-volume milk production (favoring Holsteins) or target niche markets with high-quality, high-fat milk (favoring Jerseys or specific crossbreds).
   • Explore value-added products like cheese, yogurt, or organic milk, which could provide higher profit margins.
5. Regulatory Compliance and Sustainability:
   • Be aware of local regulations regarding dairy farming, including health and safety inspections, environmental impacts, and animal welfare standards.
   • Consider integrating sustainable practices, such as organic farming or regenerative agriculture, which could appeal to a growing market segment concerned with ethical food production.

Next Steps:

1. Research and Connect:
   • Continue researching the breeds that align with your business goals and contact local farmers, breeders, and dairy consultants in Pescadero and the Bay Area.
2. Visit Farms and Observe:
   • Visit potential farms for sale in Pescadero to understand their current setups, cattle breeds, and business models. Speak to retiring farmers about their experiences and challenges.
3. Develop a Business Plan:
   • Outline a detailed business plan that includes breed selection, farm setup, management practices, genetic improvement strategies, and market positioning. Include financial projections and funding requirements.
4. Seek Expert Guidance:
   • Consult with dairy industry experts, veterinarians, geneticists, and financial advisors to validate your plan and refine your approach.