2020 December Board Book

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Tricolored Blackbird Research

BACKGROUND: Improving and supporting biodiversity on dairies is an important component of dairy sustainability. Over the past five years, California dairy farmers – particularly in the San Joaquin Valley – are facing growing pressure related to efforts to protect tricolored blackbirds, often nesting in dairy cropland. The California dairy industry is part of statewide coalition to reduce the economic burden and improve bird welfare. OBJECTIVE: To conduct research on how to best draw tricolored birds away from nesting on dairies, and/or mitigate the negative effects of tricolors nesting on dairies. INDUSTRY BENEFIT: Multi-stakeholder collaboration aimed at reducing economic burdens and improving animal welfare and industry reputation. Identify methods to draw birds away from

dairy croplands to other nesting areas. Researchers: Audubon California California Farm Bureau Dairy Cares

Several other groups/organizations Timeline: Year 2 of 5, project total $75,000 (2020–2024 Budget Periods, $15,000 each) 2021 CMAB Budget

Request: $ 15,000

CDRF 2021 Proposed Budget and Projects