Milk - General

How McCarty Family Farms Hedges Fuel Costs to Protect Dairy Margins

Fri, 08 May 2026 13:46:42 GMT

The great rebalancing of 2026 has taught dairy producers a vital lesson: You cannot control the wind, but you can certainly adjust your sails. While much of the industry’s focus remains on milk checks and component values, a silent predator often lurks in the shadows of the balance sheet — the fuel pump.

For an operation like McCarty Family Farms in Rexford, Kan., the 2025 Milk Business Leader in Technology Award winner, which milks thousands of cows across multiple states, the scale of production is matched only by the scale of its energy requirements. With feed trucks, tractors and skid steers running 24/7, fuel is not just a line item; it is the lifeblood of the operation. And in an era of global energy volatility, leaving that lifeblood to the whims of the spot market is a risk Ken McCarty, co-owner and manager, is unwilling to take.

The Math of the Spike

To understand the McCarty strategy, one must first understand the stakes. On a modern, large dairy, the equipment never stops. The sheer volume of TMR moved and the constant management of manure requires a fleet that consumes thousands of gallons of diesel every week.

For large herds, like McCarty’s, a 50¢ spike in diesel can derail a quarterly budget. In reality, that half-dollar move isn’t just an inconvenience; it represents a massive shift in capital that could have been reinvested in herd health, technology or labor. By locking in fuel prices, McCarty isn’t just buying diesel; he is buying the psychological and financial stability required to manage a complex organization.

The 18-Month Horizon: A Layered Approach

The McCarty strategy is defined by its proactivity. While many producers wait for a good day at the local co-op, McCarty and his team are looking 12 to 18 months into the future. They don’t view fuel procurement as a single transaction but rather as a continuous process of layering.

The process begins with a deep dive into data. Working closely with their fuel seller, they evaluate historical usage patterns. They don’t just look at what they used last year; they account for upcoming changes, whether that’s an expansion in acreage, a shift in equipment efficiency or a change in the beef-on-dairy program that might increase hauling requirements.

Once the known demand is established, the layering begins. As forward months become available on the market, the McCarty team begins to book physical gallons. The goal is to reach approximately 90% coverage by the start of the budget year on Jan. 1.

Mitigation, Not Speculation

Perhaps the most important takeaway for other producers is the McCarty philosophy on winning. In a world of high-frequency trading and market gurus, it is easy to fall into the trap of trying to time the bottom of the market. Ken McCarty is quick to dispel that notion.

“We have never viewed this as a money-making strategy,” he says. “Instead, it is purely a risk mitigation strategy.”

For McCarty, the goal isn’t to hit the absolute lowest price of the year — a feat that is more about luck than skill. Instead, the benchmark is historical consistency. If the farm can land in the bottom third or bottom half of the 5- to 10-year historical average or even just maintain consistency year-over-year, the strategy is a success. This consistent-cost model allows the farm to set its milk margins with confidence, knowing that this large input on the farm is already settled.

The Hidden Exposures

Even with 90% of their consumed fuel locked in, McCarty acknowledges the limits of the hedge. The farm remains exposed to indirect fuel costs — the market effects on purchased goods and, perhaps most significantly, milk freight increases.

This distinction is crucial for producers to understand. Locking in the diesel for your own tractors doesn’t protect you from the fuel surcharges applied by the third-party haulers moving your milk or the trucks delivering your distillers grains. This reality reinforces why being aggressive on the fuel you can control is so important; it narrows the window of vulnerability on the variables you cannot control.

Beyond the Contract: Efficiency as a Hedge

While forward contracting provides financial protection, McCarty is also focused on the physical side of the equation: consuming less. Every gallon of diesel not burned is a gallon that doesn’t need to be hedged.

The farm is constantly searching for ways to reduce its energy footprint. This includes everything from optimizing feed routes to reduce idling time to investing in newer, more fuel-efficient equipment. In this view, energy efficiency is the ultimate long-term hedge. It is a permanent reduction in exposure that pays dividends regardless of what happens in the energy markets.

“We have lived through times like this in the past and have no desire to repeat it, so ultimately, if we can be in the bottom third or bottom half of the 5- to 10-year historical average, or at least consistent year-over-year, then we are satisfied,” McCarty shares. “Of course, we are constantly searching for ways to consume less fuel and energy in general as an additional method of reducing our exposure to energy markets.”

Lessons for the 500-Cow Producer

While the McCarty scale is vast, the principles are entirely scalable for a modern 500-cow operation. Whether you are milking 40,000 or 500, the great rebalancing of the market means that margins are found in the details.

Compeer Financial ag economist Megan Roberts concurs with McCarty and says hedging isn’t about hitting the top or the bottom of the market; it’s about avoiding the economic risk of doing nothing.

“Risk management strategies, including hedging, are less about predicting the market and more about carefully managing exposure, using consistent, incremental decisions to smooth volatility in a way that fits the needs of your dairy operation,” she says. “Every farm is different, but in today’s environment, having a clear plan in place and following it with discipline is a wise strategy.”

In the end, the McCarty’s approach to fuel is a reflection of its approach to dairy farming as a whole: disciplined, data-driven and focused on the long game. By taking the volatility of the energy market off the table, it allows McCarty’s to focus on what truly drives the farm’s success: the health of the cows and the quality of the milk.

In a year where milk prices are shifting and trade policies are in flux, the lesson from McCarty Family Farms is clear: Protect what you can, manage what you must and never leave your margin to chance.

Chocolate Reclaims the Top Spot as America’s Favorite Ice Cream Flavor

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 19:14:45 GMT

Chocolate is back on top as America’s favorite ice cream flavor, according to the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) National Ice Cream & Frozen Novelty Trends Survey. After briefly ceding the No. 1 spot to vanilla in 2024, chocolate has reclaimed the lead in 2026. Butter pecan also continues its climb, moving ahead of vanilla among U.S. consumers.

The biannual survey reflects responses from more than 2,200 U.S. adults and tracks how Americans choose ice cream and frozen novelties, from flavors and formats to toppings and traditions.

IDFA’s latest results point to a mix of nostalgia and indulgence shaping consumer preference. Classic flavors remain strong, while richer, more decadent options continue gaining traction.

Top 5 flavors among U.S. consumers:

Chocolate
Butter Pecan
Vanilla
Cookies and Cream/Oreo
Caramel/Salted Caramel

Compared with previous years, the rankings show continued movement toward richer, mix-in driven flavors, while traditional staples still anchor the category.

“Americans’ love for ice cream is as strong as ever,” says Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of IDFA. “From timeless favorites like chocolate and butter pecan to newer indulgent options, ice cream continues to bring people together and create moments of joy across the country. As we look ahead to National Ice Cream Month, it’s clear this remains a staple in American life.”

The Sweetest States: Where America Loves Ice Cream Most

Other findings from the survey show how consumers enjoy their ice cream:

Cone preference leads among formats, with 40% of Americans choosing cones, followed by sandwiches at 24% and mini cups at 14%.

(Source: 2026 IDFA National Ice Cream & Frozen Novelty Trends Survey)

Waffle cones or bowls remain the most popular vessel across generations, with Gen Z splitting more evenly between bowls and waffle bowls compared to older groups.

Hot fudge ranks as the top topping at 31%, followed by whipped cream at 27%, caramel sauce at 21%, and chocolate sauce at 18%. Flavor remains the primary purchase driver, with 70% of consumers saying it is very important, ahead of price and portion size.

When asked about iconic ice cream memories, respondents most often pointed to neighborhood ice cream trucks, followed by birthday ice cream cakes and visits to local scoop shops.

Don’t Push Pause: How a Near-Fatal Accident Made Our Farm Succession Plan Crystal Clear

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:57:36 GMT

The last Friday in February was supposed to be a victory lap for a winter well-spent. It was a rare 65°F gift from the Illinois sky. The kind of afternoon where the sun feels like a promise of the spring to come.

My husband, Scott, and our youngest son, Jacob, spent the afternoon moving cattle between sites. It’s a project that usually takes three or four hours, and as any farmer knows, the cattle rarely cooperate. But Jacob did. He was right there, shoulder-to-shoulder with his dad. Our oldest son, Tyler, was home from college for the weekend, helping on the dairy with cattle work. It was one of those perfect, productive days where everyone was basking in the sunshine, the rhythm of the farm moving in a steady, beautiful cadence.

When the clock hit 5:00 p.m., Scott was ready to call it a day. Our local high school boys’ basketball team had made it to regionals, and we wanted to be there to cheer them on. We climbed into our SUV, chatting about the chores we’d finished and enjoying the lingering warmth of the day.

We were only a mile from our farm when the world shattered.

It happened in a blink. A truck made a mad dash across the four-lane highway, blindsiding us. There was no time to swerve, no time to brake. The police report would later confirm what we already knew: there was nothing we could have done.

Everyone tells you that life can change in a split second, but until you are sitting in the wreckage of mangled steel, surrounded by a dozen deployed airbags and the smell of gunpowder and dust, you don’t truly understand it. As we hit, I felt the impact vibrate through my very bones. I immediately started to pray. “We will be okay. God, make us okay.”

Through the haze of smoke and shock, Scott’s voice was the only thing I could hear. He was a trooper, his own safety forgotten.

“Karen, are you okay?” he asked, over and over.

I wanted to scream that I was fine. I wanted to tell him I was right there. But the shock was a physical weight. My mouth opened, a moan escaped, but the words were trapped behind a wall of trauma. I couldn’t speak.

The rest of the evening was a blur of sirens, flashing lights and the sterile white walls of the ER. The ambulance took me away; the tow truck took what was left of our vehicle. We spent the night under fluorescent lights, but we walked away. We got to go home.

In the days that followed, a deep, heavy appreciation for life settled over our house. I am thankful to be writing this story, though I would give anything to have never lived it. But the most emotional moment didn’t happen at the crash site; it happened at our farm.

(Karen Bohnert)

Our children asked the question every farm kid fears: “What would happen if both of you had passed?”

I cried. But for the first time, I could answer them with certainty. I told them about the will. I told them it was all outlined, all documented. It took me losing both of my parents and my brother — and writing about other families’ succession plans gone wrong for years — before we finally sat down and finalized our own a decade ago.

I think back to my own parents. It took them losing their own son — my brother — in an automobile accident to finally lean forward and be brave enough to talk about their own will. They put a plan together soon after and revised it a few times over the years. When the time came that we eventually lost our parents, my sisters and I were so incredibly thankful we did not have to worry about the logistics during our grief. My parents had it all documented. They gave us that peace of mind.

Farmers, I am pleading with you: Don’t push pause.

Don’t wait for a sunny day to have the conversation. Or a rain day. The highway doesn’t care about your schedule. Don’t wait because it’s an uncomfortable conversation; it will never get easier. Don’t wait because you aren’t sure what is “fair” or what is “best.”

Start the conversation today. Meet with a lawyer. Get it documented. You can always change and revise it — we already have once since we started.

I am so incredibly thankful that today, my kids are out in the dirt helping on the farm instead of sitting in a lawyer’s office reading a will. I am thankful they didn’t lose their parents on an Illinois highway. But mostly, I am thankful that if the worst had happened, they wouldn’t have been left in the dark.

Don’t wait. Your legacy is too important to leave to chance.

Leading Through the Storm: How This Mother of Three Navigated a Dairy Transition Alone

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:49:22 GMT

In the quiet rolling hills of Franklin County, Pa., near the small town of Newburg, the hum of a dairy farm usually signals the steady rhythm of a dream realized. But a year and a half ago, that rhythm was shattered in an instant. For Kerri Weber, co-owner of Rustik Dairy LLC, a routine day of hoof trimming ended not with the satisfaction of a job well done, but with a frantic 911 call and a prognosis that offered almost no hope.

Her husband, Rob, had suffered a Grade 5 subarachnoid brain aneurysm — the most severe type of rupture possible. As the surgeon told Weber that first night: “All we can do is pray.” She made a silent, steely vow: she was bringing him home.

What followed is a story of perseverance that defines the modern woman in agriculture. It is a story of a first-generation farm built from scratch, a business transition finalized in an ICU waiting room, and a community that proved the dairy industry is less of a business and more of a family.

(Photos Provided By Rustik Dairy LLC)

From the Ground Up

Kerri and Rob Weber didn’t inherit their legacy — they rented it, one barn at a time. Both grew up with a passion for cows — meeting, fittingly, while showing cattle — but starting a dairy from scratch in the 21^st century is a feat many call impossible.

“You’re not going to start at the top,” Weber reflects.

For eight years, the couple operated as nomadic dairymen, renting tie-stall facilities and moving their growing herd as opportunities arose. They lived by a strict philosophy: You have to go through all four seasons before you make a judgment call. They crunched numbers on $16 milk and $20 milk, knowing their break-even points by heart.

Their break came when they returned to the farm where Rob had worked as a teenager. They entered a partnership with brothers Wayne and Brad Beidel. It was a phased transition — a lifeline for a young couple looking for a permanent home for their Holstein, Jersey and Brown Swiss cattle. By the time the first brother, Wayne, retired, Rustik Dairy LLC was formed. They were four years into the second phase of the transition when the world stopped turning.

107 Days of Uncertainty

The day of the injury was like any other until Rob walked into the barn office, spoke Weber’s name, and collapsed. While he lay in a coma for four weeks, Weber’s life became a grueling marathon. She was the mother of three young children at the time — twins who were only 18 months old and a five-year-old daughter.

For 107 days, Weber balanced the sterile silence of hospital hallways with the demanding noise of a 180-cow dairy. She stayed by Rob’s side for nearly every one of those days, yet she never let the farm slip. She did morning milkings when she could, managed the books from hospital chairs and coordinated a team of part-time help that stepped up to become full-time heroes.

“One day at a time” became her motto.

“One day was one more day that I kept Rob alive,” she says.

The Choice in the ICU

Perhaps the most defining moment of Weber’s strength occurred four weeks into Rob’s stay in the ICU. The second partner, Brad, was ready to finalize his retirement. Weber was faced with a choice that would break most people: sell the cows and walk away to focus on her family, or sign the papers to buy out the partnership and take over the entire operation alone.

She chose the farm.

“I was convinced he was coming home,” Weber says. “And I knew he couldn’t come home to an empty barn. He needed something to fight for. If the farm was gone, he wouldn’t have that fight anymore.”

A week after Rob finally returned home, Weber officially took over the management of the entire dairy. She became the sole decision-maker, the lead manager and the primary caregiver for both her husband and their children.

(Photos Provided By Rustik Dairy LLC)

A Miracle in the Barn

Today, Rustik Dairy is not just surviving; it is thriving. The herd of 180 cows is averaging 24,000 pounds of milk with 1,000 pounds of fat and 800 pounds of protein — a remarkable feat given that 40% of the herd consists of color breeds.

But the real success is measured in the small moments. Rob is a walking medical miracle. Though he faces mental challenges, fatigue and the need for ongoing surgeries, he is back on the farm. Weber has integrated technology to help him navigate his new reality. They installed the Topcon feed app, which uses color-coded scales and sounds to help Rob mix feed — a task he once did by memory but now performs with the help of digital eyes.

“Farmers don’t forget what they’re doing,” Weber notes. “It’s muscle memory. He can still drive a tractor better than I can.”

To make life more manageable, Weber moved the calf-raising operation. They built a new calf barn right outside the house so the children can play among the hutches while Weber and Rob work. It allows the family to stay together, fulfilling the dream they had before the accident: raising their children in the barn.

The Power of the Dairy Community

When Kerri reflects on the past year and half, she doesn’t just talk about the struggle; she talks about the silver linings. She speaks of the Amish and Mennonite neighbors who showed up to feed calves without being asked. She speaks of the dairy community that sent diapers, clothing and two meals a week for over a year.

“You don’t have that anywhere else. That love and support... you don’t see that outside of the dairy community,” she says, noting the incredible importance of their families who pitched in from Day 1 to help in anyway they could. “We couldn’t do what we do without the support of our families.”

Even the farm’s nutritionists and veterinarians became part of the inner circle, understanding the “Rustik story” so well that Weber didn’t have to explain her weaknesses — they simply jumped in to fill the gaps.

Looking Forward: One Day at a Time

As spring approaches, the family continues to focus on gratitude. Weber continues to manage the herd with a focus on component growth and efficiency, but her primary objective remains unchanged: keeping the family together.

The journey hasn’t been easy. There are setbacks, like Rob’s shunt revision surgery, and the difficult mentalities that a brain injury can sometimes leave behind. But Weber finds joy in the simple things: a walk through the freestyle barn, the sight of their daughters holding bottles for calves, and the fact Rob is there to see it.

“I look at life differently now,” Weber says. “You don’t realize how quickly life can be taken for granted until it’s nearly gone. I’m just thankful for what I have today, even when the circumstances aren’t what I expected them to be.”

Kerri Weber is more than a dairy farmer. She is a testament to the fact that a farm is held together not just by fences and gates, but by the determined spirit of the women who refuse to let the dream die. At Rustik Dairy, the cows are milking, the children are growing and the miracle is just beginning.

Global Protein Demand Surges 2% Annually as Producers Navigate Volatile Markets

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:28:01 GMT

While global protein demand is growing at roughly 2% annually, livestock producers must navigate a complex landscape of regional shifts, disease risks and policy battles that will define the next decade of production.

“The Global Protein Outlook: Demand, Trade and the Supply Picture” panel discussion during this year’s Top Producer Summit brought together experts from the beef, dairy and pork industries to explore demand, trade dynamics and risks facing the livestock industry today.

Beef, dairy and pork experts explain how foreign animal disease and climate extremes threaten herds and what risk-management strategies producers can use to stay profitable.

(Farm Journal)

On the panel were:

Kenny Burdine, University of Kentucky agricultural economist
Stephen Cain, National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC)
Renee Strickland, Strickland Ranch & Exports, Inc.
Scott Hays, Missouri Pork Association

Five key takeaways from the discussion include:

1. Global protein demand is structurally strong, driven by population growth, rising incomes and a broad cultural focus on protein.

“Globally, we are seeing an increase in protein demand broadly across the board,” Cain summarizes.

He describes a few demand patterns:

Regions like sub-Saharan Africa and India: demand mainly from more mouths to feed, not big per-capita jumps.
Regions like Southeast Asia and China: both population and per-capita protein consumption have risen sharply.
Developed regions like the U.S. and Europe are in a fortified-protein trend: “We are cramming protein into everything,” Cain describes. “We have protein water on the market now … it’s across the world.”

Plant-based and alternative proteins seem to be a niche.

Burdine explains: “They’ve not taken any market share. It’s still kind of staying in that niche and not impacting the major protein categories.”

Cain adds the dairy alternatives are seeing category declines, with more consumers realizing milk is a whole food compared to the ingredient in an almond beverage.

2. Supply and trade are shifting toward more regionalized production and stronger competitors, but U.S. strengths in productivity and quality remain critical.

On the supply side, Cain explains rising demand does not always translate into equally increasing exports.

“We’ve seen that slow down,” he says. “More of that protein demand is being filled by domestic production, more regionalized players.”

He links this to some pushback against globalism and more inward-looking, domestic strategies. The U.S. remains a key exporter but faces growing regional competition.

Burdine adds while the U.S. has the smallest cow herd since 1961 , productivity gains mean more output per animal. He points out Brazil passed the U.S. as the largest beef producer.

“It’s not that there’s not competition out there, but we absolutely [have] a great advantage here in the states,” he says.

From pork’s perspective, Hays says the U.S. pork supply should stay steady into 2026, while global pork supply is shrinking. He predicts China may decrease 1.4 million sows, Spain is cutting numbers due to African Swine Fever, yet Brazil is continuing to grow its numbers.

3. Risk and resilience — disease, climate extremes and feed quality — are central concerns, making biosecurity, preparedness and careful storage essential.

Hays highlights herd health is the biggest concern for all livestock producers.

“What keeps every producer up is herd health,” he stresses.

He points out to these concerns today:

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS): PRRS causes “very, very significant losses” and takes a multiyear recovery
Foreign animal diseases – African Swine Fever, foot-and-mouth disease and New World screwworm .

“Foot and mouth should scare everybody at this conference,” he stresses. “We would lose all of those exports on all of those products, from dairy to beef to pork.”

From the cattle perspective, Strickland adds climate extremes are a concern for ranchers today.

“I also fear the climate change extremes that we’re all experiencing,” she says. “Extreme drought, extreme rains… that’s really challenging for me as a producer.”

More information about disease challenges facing the livestock producers today:

PRRS ‘Still Sucks’: New Strain Plagues Pork Producers in Ohio

Strategies to Help Raise PRRS-Positive Pigs

Is a World Without PRRS Possible? Two Veterinarians Say ‘Yes’

Help Protect the U.S. from African Swine Fever

African Swine Fever: What it means for America if it were to get into the country

What Do Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreaks in Europe Mean for the U.S.?

The Smell You’ll Never Forget: A Calf Infested with New World Screwworm

New World Screwworm: An Infestation, Not Infection

4. Consumer behavior shows both opportunity and caution: strong protein demand despite high prices, but some trade-down, weaker foodservice and ongoing debates over “ultra-processed” foods.

Burdine compares today’s protein enthusiasm to past diet waves like Atkins and South Beach, but emphasizes: “Consumer trends are always challenging, but it’s the most encouraging in my career.”

Two features about the demand craze he points out are:

How widespread it is across species and products, including eggs.
Price behavior — despite very high retail prices, demand remains strong.

Burdines explains this suggests a deeper, more durable shift for increased protein demand, not just a short-lived fad.

Cain adds in the protein world trade-down due to inflation and increasing costs is real, especially in foodservice.

He notes lower-income consumers pull back on fast food and quick service, which hurts cheese and dairy demand. Cheese consumption, which usually increases about 2% per year, fell 2% last year, which he says is largely due to weaker foodservice traffic.

Burdine adds that trade-down happens across and within species.

Hays emphasizes the new dietary guidelines are a big win for protein and specifically animal protein.

“We’re excited,” he says. “Pork is at the top on the left-hand side, but it’s more about shifting the conversation. We’re moving away from ‘animal fat makes you fat.’ Meat provides hard-to-replace vitamins and minerals, including in the fat portion.”

He did share concern about how ultra-processed concepts are being used.

“We’ve taken this word ‘ultra-processed’, and now it’s a household word. It is the single unit of measure [for] whether or not we should or should not eat something,” Hays says. “And we don’t even know what the definition of it is.”

He explains if ultra-processed is the only metric, a sausage patty and a honey bun look identical, which is misleading for real nutrition decisions.

Cain adds allowing whole milk in schools is a big win, but schools are facing a higher cost than skim and calorie caps that make menu-balancing harder.

5. Strategic actions for producers: robust risk management, efficiency and quality focus, diversification and a commitment to mentoring the next generation.

Cain encourages producers to use risk management and pricing strategies to help make them viable at today’s prices.

“If you’re not economically viable today, you’re not going to be economically viable tomorrow,” he says.

Burdine adds to think about risk management broadly considering price tools and protection from acts of God. This includes biosecurity strategies and insurance.

“Focus on efficiency and quality to stay competitive in good and bad markets,” he stresses.

Hays asks grain producers to protect feed quality. Poorly stored corn or DDGs (dry distillers grains) can create toxin issues that hurt animal performance and reduce demand.

“Your consumer really needs it to be high quality,” he stresses. “And we’ll buy more of it.”

Strickland encourages producers to diversify their income and not put all their eggs in one basket. Her business includes a ranch, export company and a non-ag title search company.

“When one of them is not doing so well, something else bails me out,” she summarizes. “If you’re in a position that you can diversify just a little bit, it can get you through the hard times.”

The final message was a question: Who are you mentoring and investing in? All producers need to consider how they are going to pass information on to the next generation and help them be successful and thrive.

Your Next Reads:
U.S. Cattle Inventory Hits 75-Year Low at 86.2 Million Head
What Do Consumers Buy in the Meat Aisle When Money is Tight?
New Dietary Guidelines Move Food Pyramid Closer to the Farm

The Politics of the Plate: How Voter Sentiment is Reshaping the Ag Landscape

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:15:31 GMT

The road to the 2026 midterms runs directly through the dairy aisle. At the International Dairy Foods Association Dairy Forum in Palm Springs, Calif., Morning Consult’s lead U.S. politics analyst, Eli Yokley, delivered a high stakes briefing on the cultural forces currently driving the American voter. From the surprising bipartisan popularity of the “Make America Healthy Again” movement to a softening public stance on agricultural labor, Yokley’s data outlines how the dairy industry can leverage its position at the intersection of nutrition and necessity to navigate an increasingly complex political landscape.

The “MAHA” Momentum and the Milk Moment

Yokley began with a surprising revelation: While voters historically distrust the Republican party on general healthcare policy, the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) agenda is a notable exception.

“Voters just don’t trust Republicans on healthcare in the traditional sense,” Yokley notes. “But the MAHA agenda, specifically as it relates to food, is remarkably popular. It’s working on bipartisan territory.”

According to Morning Consult data, the favorability of the MAHA agenda remained steady throughout 2025. Voters associate the movement with improving food access and reducing harmful additives rather than vaccine skepticism. This “big moment for milk” is rooted in a return to natural, whole foods. Interestingly, Yokley points out a significant gender divide. Men across the political spectrum view whole milk as “generally good for you,” women, who still perform the majority of grocery shopping, are slightly more skeptical. However, a quarter of all grocery shoppers expressed a willingness to pay more for “natural” or “whole” products, a trend driven by high-earning suburban parents who will be the ultimate deciders of the 2026 midterms.

The Inflation Disconnect: Groceries as a Political Weapon

The most significant headwind for the current administration is the economy, specifically the “grocery store” voter. Yokley argues the administration’s focus on tariffs is increasingly out of sync with voter concerns.

“Voters perceive big price increases in groceries more than any other category,” Yokley says. “Groceries are the biggest driver of voter concern this year. It activates people across all income levels.”

For the dairy industry, there is a silver lining: Dairy products are still perceived as relatively affordable compared to bread, fruits and vegetables. And while, prices of fruits and vegetables have actually remained remarkably stable , dairy’s perceived “affordability halo” gives the industry a level of credibility when engaging with policymakers. Voters are far more likely to blame trade policies and immigration enforcement for rising food costs than they are to blame the farmers themselves.

The Immigration Leverage Point

One of the most delicate issues for the dairy industry is immigration, and Yokley’s data suggests a surprising shift in public sentiment. While the political rhetoric around border security remains fiery, the American public’s view on agricultural labor is softening.

“There is an openness among the American people to the idea that these kinds of workers are important to the economy, especially in this inflationary environment,” Yokley explains.

The share of voters who believe there is “about the right number” of seasonal or lower-skilled workers has increased, while the share of those who believe there are “too many” has stalled. This creates a strategic leverage point for the dairy industry to advocate for reform, framing it as a solution to food inflation rather than a purely political issue.

The CEO Conundrum: Public Silence Versus Private Action

Yokley also addressed the role of business leaders in this volatile climate, describing it as a pickle. Morning Consult data shows only a third of voters want to see CEOs speaking out publicly on issues such as trade or immigration. In fact, public attacks on the administration can be more harmful among a leader’s own base than helpful among the general public.

The solution? Private action and the power of trade associations.

“Voters are much more open to private action and lobbying,” Yokley says. “They get that this happens. It underlines the importance of trade associations like IDFA to provide the political cover that individual CEOs might not want to risk.”

Forecasting 2026 and Beyond

Looking ahead to the midterms, Yokley described a “split” reality. The Senate map currently favors Republicans, with high-profile races in Georgia (Jon Ossoff) and Maine (Susan Collins) serving as key bellwethers. The House, however, remains a toss-up, with Democrats needing only a three-to-four-point advantage on the generic ballot to reclaim control.

Finally, Yokley cast an eye toward 2028, noting that California Governor Gavin Newsom is a figure to watch. Newsom’s “fiery rhetoric” and “Trump-style” engagement are activating young voters in a way that feels authentic to the Democratic base.

The Bottom Line for Dairy

Yokley’s concluding message was one of optimism for the industry. In a deeply divided country, milk remains a “wholesome, accessible staple” that doesn’t trigger as much discord as other issues.

“The American people don’t hate milk,” Yokley concludes. “The industry is positioned at the intersection of nutrition and affordability — the two things voters care about most.”

Your Next Read:
IDFA President Outlines Top 5 Priorities For The $800B Dairy Industry’s Future

How An ICE Raid Cut This Dairy's Workforce By More Than Half

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 17:53:19 GMT

Like many of their fellow dairy farmers, Rodney and Dorothy Elliott, owners of Drumgoon Dairy, grapple with securing reliable labor. Nestled in the small town of Lake Norden, S.D., their labor headaches intensified this past spring when their 6,500-cow dairy operation experienced a federal Department of Homeland Security audit that led to the immediate termination of 38 employees. The Elliotts were left with 16 workers.

“We didn’t just lose employees — we lost years of experience, skills, knowledge and a team culture that we had built over the past 10 years or more,” Dorothy says.

The audit findings revealed several workers had inaccurate, outdated or incomplete documentation regarding their U.S. citizenship status or work permits. For the Elliotts, the raid brought to light a critical issue that many farms and ag businesses face today: The complexities of immigration policy impact workforce availability.

The Elliotts fear for the future, not only for their own dairy, but for the industry at large. Immigrant workers are critical to dairy operations, representing over half of all dairy farm labor and contributing to 79% of the U.S. milk supply, according to the National Milk Producers Federation.

“Basically, we’ve turned off the tap, but we’ve done nothing to create a solution to find employees for the dairy industry,” Dorothy says.

(Drumgoon Dairy)

The urgency for immigration reform is exacerbated by the fact Americans are typically unwilling to undertake these demanding jobs, says Rick Naerebout, CEO of the Idaho Dairymen’s Association.

“This is bigger than just a dairy issue, this is a feeding America issue, which is national security. Roughly half of all on-farm labor in America is unauthorized. We cannot feed ourselves as a country without these workers,” Naerebout says. “One of the lessons we learned from WWII is that a country that cannot feed itself without imports is at greater risk from their enemies.”

(Drumgoon Dairy)

A Sustainable Future Requires a Sustainable Workforce

The Elliotts’ journey began in northern Ireland, where they managed a small dairy farm restricted by stringent government regulations. Frustrated by the limitations and lured by an enticing marketing campaign from the South Dakota Department of Agriculture, the family took a leap of faith. They left Ireland, aspiring to transform their modest 140-head operation into a modern, sustainable dairy farm.

Their vision extended beyond business growth — they also set their sights on building an operation that offered future generations a chance to return to farming.

“We’ve achieved our goals that we set out for ourselves: Build a dairy, milk cows and grow the dairy industry in South Dakota,” Dorothy says. “Is it a sustainable goal if there’s nobody to work on these dairies? No. All the time, money, effort, investment and hard work that has gone into it will be null and void if there isn’t a workforce.”

With firsthand experience, Elliott empathizes with her workforce, many of whom are Hispanic immigrants. Elliott gained citizenship shortly after relocating to the U.S., and her husband followed suit, becoming a citizen eight years after they moved.

“We’re facing a reality where all our employees are doing is working. They’re filling positions that are, at present, not being claimed by American workers,” Dorothy reflects.

Her statement sheds light on the essential roles immigrant laborers play across the agricultural landscape, highlighting the gap between workforce demands and available labor supply.

“I want people to understand that dairy farms don’t choose to hire undocumented workers. We all have to hire following state and federal guidelines,” Dorothy says. “Everyone who was hired on our farm had to have a state or federally issued ID card and a Social Security number. Some of these employees had been working without any flags being raised for over 10 years. They were paying all the state and federal taxes we are required to collect.”

(Drumgoon Dairy)

Automation Still Requires Human Touch

Despite adversity, the Elliotts push forward. Nearby farms offered temporary assistance following the raid, and they continue to heavily invest in both local and international workforce recruitment. Although automation seemed a promising alternative at one point, the prohibitive costs and disappointing results led to the sale of some equipment.

Drumgoon Dairy installed 20 robots in 2020. They hoped to recruit students and graduates from Lake Area Technical College’s robotics program to maintain the equipment. They’ve advertised maintenance positions, but the response has been disheartening. As of now, “no one,” according to Dorothy, has stepped forward to fill these roles.

Given the high costs associated with running and servicing the robots, the family decided to remove them.

(Drumgoon Dairy)

A National Security Crisis

Drumgoon Dairy’s challenges are not isolated. Since President Trump’s crackdown on immigration started a year ago, ICE Raids have happened all across the U.S. While numbers specific to the agriculture industry aren’t available, according to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement , the number of people in immigration detention in the U.S. hit an all-time high as of Dec. 14, 2025, at 68,400 people.

It’s been nine months since the ICE raid at Drumgoon Dairy. While the Elliotts now have a full workforce, they’re not operating with the same level of experience, skills and knowledge.

“I feel that the Republican Party has run on this promise of immigration reform and encouraging new businesses to come and set up businesses in the U.S.,” she says. “Since we started dairy farming in 2006, the only people coming to work on dairy farms have been from the Hispanic community. I now see local construction businesses, factories, landscaping businesses and other ag businesses all using Hispanic workers. Where is the reform? What has been done to facilitate a sustainable workforce?”

Your Next Read: What To Do If ICE Comes Knocking On Your Door

Beyond An '80s Buyout: A New Voluntary Approach to Dairy Surpluses and Beef Supply

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 17:10:56 GMT

The dairy industry is no stranger to the relentless cycle of “low prices cure low prices,” a brutal reality where dwindling profits force producers to consider exiting the business. The rearview mirror of history reveals a pattern: When milk prices plummet, the government intervenes.

From the 1980s to more recent times, various assistance programs have attempted to curb milk supply and stabilize prices with mixed results. Now, as dairy producers once again grapple with challenging margins and low milk prices, a new farmer-driven proposal is emerging.

Voluntary Program to Cull Dairy Cows

The Make America More Ground Beef (MAMGB) initiative is designed to help dairy farmers monetize surplus dairy-origin cattle, increase domestic beef supply and help lower grocery prices for American families. Bolstered by Western United Dairies, it is not a mandate but a voluntary program open to all U.S. dairy operations, potentially launching as early as this spring.

Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies, a trade organization that represents more than 75% of milk produced in California, says they’re answering the Trump’s administration’s call to make real food affordable while putting American farmers first.

“This plan is something new and different. We don’t have to choose between America’s affordable access to high quality nutrition and farmers’ bottom lines,” Raudabaugh says. “Incentivizing farmers to cull only what’s needed to generate affordability for the American consumer is a win-win. It is not a herd buyout, and there are guardrails to ensure the cows end up in slaughter. We want to ensure the U.S. dairy industry stays strong and resilient in the future, and that we have a long-term, reliable supply of American-grown beef in our feedlots.”

Recently, the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) has been vocal in opposition to such government interventions. During the organization’s recent annual convention, an amendment was made from the floor because “USDA started having talks about a dairy buyout program to bring down beef prices,” said Mike McCormick, Mississippi Farm Bureau president, when introducing the amendment.

AFBF delegates added language by unanimous consent opposing “any federally funded dairy buyout program that has the potential to create further market volatility in livestock market sectors.”

“Discussions of such a program are deeply concerning. We need solutions that benefit all of agriculture, not solutions that benefit one ag sector at the expense of another,” says John Newton, vice president of public policy and economic analysis with AFBF. “Solutions to help farmers should be market-driven and lasting, not short-term actions that could potentially damage the long-term strength of agriculture. We recognize the challenges facing dairy farmers and look forward to partnering with them to find solutions that work for all of agriculture.”

A Legacy of Government Intervention

The MAMGB proposal follows a long history of interventions, starting with the first significant federal effort to address milk surpluses in 1984-1985 with the USDA-Administered Milk Diversion Program. Responding to a surge in surplus dairy product purchases that cost USDA $2.7 billion in 1983, Congress enacted a temporary program. Farmers were paid $10 per cwt. to reduce their milk marketings by 5% to 30%, funded by a farmer assessment.

While $955 million was paid out and milk production was reduced by an estimated 3.74 to 4.11 billion pounds in 1984, the program suffered from “adverse selection” and “moral hazard” issues. Many participants had already reduced production, and non-participants expanded, leading to no measurable impact on national average milk price or overall production trends. Milk supply quickly rebounded, prompting further intervention.

This led to the more drastic 1986-1987 Milk Buyout Program (Dairy Termination Program - DTP), part of the 1985 farm bill. The goal was ambitious: Reduce U.S. milk production by 12 billion pounds annually by paying farmers to permanently exit production. Approximately 15,000 farmers accepted bids, removing about 1.55 million cows at a cost of $1.8 billion. However, like its predecessor, the DTP faced “free-rider” problems; non-participating farms increased their output, offsetting the intended reduction. While growth remained flat, national milk production did not decline as significantly as intended.

“The Dairy Termination Program, or Whole Herd Buyout, legislated in the 1985 farm bill, was a response to the now discontinued dairy price support program that had ratcheted milk prices to a level that was generating very costly surpluses of government dairy product purchases under the program,” says Peter Vitaliano, long-time chief economist of the National Milk Producers Federation. “Our analysis suggests that DTP and support price reductions during 1986-90 have proven to be a cost-effective means of reducing the quantity and expense of government purchases under the price support program.”

According to Vitaliano, the beef cattle industry strongly opposed any future legislated programs due to the impact on the cattle market and prices.

“The current political sensitivity about food affordability could also attract a wider focus on any legislated program to ‘elevate milk prices,’ he says.

Following these federal efforts came industry-funded voluntary herd buyouts from 2004 to 2011 through the National Milk Producers Federation Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) program. Dairy farmer cooperatives collectively aimed to reduce the milk supply by more than 1 billion pounds annually, ultimately removing an estimated 510,000 milking cows over seven years, with a notable 250,000 in 2009.

“The CWT program, a consortium of dairy cooperatives, initially operated a herd retirement program, loosely modeled on the DTP, in addition to an export assistance program,” Vitaliano says. “It attracted some class-action lawsuits brought under various state antitrust-type laws that resulted in a large legal settlement. This has established some legal precedents that would doubtless prove cautionary to undertaking a similar program in the future.”

A more recent concept, the Dairy Market Stabilization Program (DMSP), was debated in the 2014 farm bill. This proposed program would have been coupled with the Margin Protection Program (MPP), levying penalties on dairy farmers who didn’t reduce supply when MPP margins fell below certain thresholds. Though not enacted, historical analysis shows DMSP would have been infrequently triggered, highlighting the challenge of effective supply control.

How Make America More Ground Beef Would Work

Western United Dairies shares the MAMGB program aims to divert 800,000 to 1 million additional dairy-origin cattle in spring 2026, injecting an estimated 900 million to 1.1 billion pounds of lean trim into the ground beef market. This added supply is projected to:

Lower retail ground beef prices by 18% to 25%.
Increase overall beef demand.
Support packing plants and rural jobs. This aligns with national dietary guidance encouraging affordable, high-quality protein.

MAMGB offers two voluntary tracks with payments on top of normal market sale prices:

Immediate Cull Track. For culling dairy cows of any age or condition, this track offers $1,600 per head, plus a $200 early-delivery bonus, for a total potential payment of up to $1,800 per head, paid upon proof of slaughter within 30 days.
Feedlot Beef Track. For dairy heifers over 400 lb. shipped to approved feedlots for a minimum finishing period, this track offers $1,800 per head, plus a $200 early bonus, for a total potential payment of up to $2,000 per head.

MAMGB is designed with guardrails to protect long-term dairy viability:

Above-Baseline Rule. Incentives apply only to additional animals beyond a farm’s normal culling levels.
Strict Dairy-Only Verification. Ensures only dairy-origin animals qualify through breed checks, RFID and packer attestations.
Capacity Safeguards. Real-time monitoring can pause regional signups if packing plants near 90% capacity, preventing bottlenecks.
USDA-Aligned Caps. Per-entity payment caps adhere to standard USDA program limits.

Dairy Industry Optimism and Growth

Michael Dykes, CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association, stresses the industry’s eagerness for growth among both dairy producers and processors.

“The U.S. dairy industry is growing thanks to record domestic demand and exports and innovation from the farm to the plant. Dairy is meeting the moment because it delivers what matters most today — flavor, affordability and complete nutrition,” he says. “That growth has led dairy processors to invest more than $11 billion in new processing capacity to come online by 2028. We’re optimistic that our industry will continue to grow with the passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and the recently released Dietary Guidelines that recognizes the nutritional benefits of dairy in all fat levels. Our industry continues to produce innovative new products that meet the evolving consumer interests, and we’ll continue to grow dairy’s market share at home and abroad in the coming years for the benefit of the entire industry.”

This excitement has spread from boardrooms to barns, driving remarkable growth in milk production across the U.S. The latest USDA Milk Production Report details a vigorous increase in milk output. November’s milk production in the 24 major states reached a total of 18.1 billion pounds, reflecting a 4.7% increase from the previous year.

Phil Plourd, president of Ever.Ag Insights, says he looks at cow numbers first and with 211,000 more cows year-over year, he says it will be a while before we see a dramatic slowdown in milk production.

“We’ve got over 200,000 more cows, and those cows are producing around 20 pounds more milk than last year,” adds Robin Schmahl of AgMarket.net. “We have a lot of milk.”

As the dairy industry continues its perennial battle against the “low prices cure low prices” cycle, the landscape of intervention remains complex and ever-evolving. History shows a clear pattern of attempts, from direct government payments to voluntary buyouts and proposed stabilization programs, each with its own set of challenges and limited long-term success in fundamentally altering market dynamics. What remains constant is the dairy producer’s pursuit of resilience and profitability. Whether through farm diversification, such as the strategic growth of beef-on-dairy, or through collective industry efforts, the quest for stable margins and a sustainable future continues to drive innovation and adaptation.

Whole Milk is Back: The Dairy Farmers Who Witnessed History, and the Whirlwind Trip to Get There

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 22:24:37 GMT

What would you do if the White House called and asked you to get on a plane the next day to be part of a bill signing? For several dairy farmers this week, that whirlwind invitation became reality.

Nutrition shouldn’t be controversial. It’s common sense. #DrinkWholeMilk pic.twitter.com/le9vHOWXqs
— Dept. of Agriculture (@USDA) January 15, 2026

The occasion? President Donald Trump signing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act into law, legislation aimed at giving students across the country access to whole milk in school lunches, a move the administration is calling “common sense” for both nutrition and parental choice.

“Whether you’re a Democrat or a Republican, whole milk is … a great thing,” Trump said during the signing, surrounded by farmers, legislators and a giant bottle of milk on the desk. “I’m delighted to sign the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act into law, which is very important for our farmers and maybe even more important for the people that drink milk.”

USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins highlighted the nutritional benefits, noting that the law allows schools to expand milk offerings beyond low-fat or nonfat options within just a few weeks.

“It’s a big announcement for our schools and our children,” Rollins said, emphasizing that the law empowers parents to make milk choices for their children without requiring medical exemptions.

🖊️ INTO LAW: President Donald J. Trump signs the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, ensuring millions of children have access to high-quality milk in schools.

MAKE AMERICA HEALTHY AGAIN 🥛🐄 pic.twitter.com/VUI36QKgnU
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 14, 2026

For New Mexico dairy farmer Tara Vander Dussen, a fifth-generation dairy farmer and host of the “Discover Ag” podcast, she didn’t just experience the White House for herself; she actually attended the signing with her two daughters, making sure the experience was unforgettable.

“Oh my gosh, it was such a whirlwind,” Vander Dussen tells U.S. Farm Report. “I got the call on Monday, and within 24 hours, I needed to be in D.C. Thankfully, my mom packed everything in less than three hours so we could make it. I was on vacation with my husband, so it was a crazy scramble, but we made it.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tara Vander Dussen | New Mexico Milkmaid (@taravanderdussen)

Van Dussen says she almost turned down the invitation, as she was already on a trip and her girls were back at home in New Mexico, but she knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity she needed to make a reality for her family.

“Not only was it an incredible opportunity to meet the president, for the girls to meet him, but this is a huge win for dairy farmers across the country, a huge one for school-aged kids that depend on school lunches,” the New Mexico dairy farmer says. “And Trump, I think, said it best when he said, this is common sense. Why can’t kids have whole milk? And it’s not just a win for a whole milk; it’s also a win for parents’ choice. So before this bill was passed, if you wanted to have your kids have an alternative milk option, you had to have a sign to know from a doctor. Now parents can make that choice themselves.”

A really special moment with a fifth-generation dairy farmer, @TaraVanderDussn, and her two beautiful little girls yesterday (who already plan to be the SIXTH generation!!) — all headed to the White House for a big win for kids and real food. 🥛🐮🐄

With the Whole Milk for… pic.twitter.com/9RFoGbwDIC
— Secretary Brooke Rollins (@SecRollins) January 15, 2026

The White House signing included farmers from operations of all sizes. USDA highlighted attendees like William Thiele, who milks 40 to 60 cows in Butler County, Pa., and Jamie Witcpalek, of Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy, LLC from Wisconsin, who manages 5,000 cows.

“This is such a monumental day in agriculture, not just for dairy farmers, but for all of agriculture,” Thiele said during the White House signing. “It helps producers, processors and these kids. It’s a perfect piece of legislation, a great day for America.”

Mr. President, I love Butler, PA too — and I’m always amazed by our hardworking dairy farmers across the Commonwealth 👍 pic.twitter.com/VbwuaL5muA
— Dave McCormick (@DaveMcCormickPA) January 15, 2026

U.S. Farm Report had the chance to talk to Thiele fresh off his trip to D.C. this week. He also emphasized the nutritional impact of the law, noting that the fat in whole milk is beneficial.

“I believe it was Secretary Brooke Rollins and Secretary Robert Kennedy [who] said yesterday about how important this is to a growing children’s diet and for brain health, brain function and physical health and all those things,” he says.

The signing marked the first bill of the year and quickly became a social media sensation, with images of Trump as the “Milk Man” and USDA posts celebrating the law’s passage. For dairy producers, it was a moment of recognition and celebration, a rare spotlight for an industry often overlooked.

Make Whole Milk Great Again.🥛 pic.twitter.com/l14FZhZDgw
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 15, 2026

This historic signing brings a personal element to legislative victories, a reminder that policy decisions can directly impact farmers’ livelihoods and children’s nutrition. For the dairy families who boarded planes at a moment’s notice, it was a trip of a lifetime and a reason to toast milk instead of debate it.

Empowering Your Dairy Team: Insights on Leadership and Trust from Leading Farm Managers

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 14:41:46 GMT

Behind every successful operation stands a team of dedicated and talented leaders who make pivotal decisions daily that aid in the overall success of that dairy farm. At the 2025 Milk Business Conference, two remarkable farm managers, Jason Anderson, with Double A Dairy in Idaho, and Brandon Beavers, with Full Circle Jerseys, in Texas spoke about essential skills and approaches needed to manage complex agricultural enterprises effectively.

Anderson brings his own unique blend of expertise to the table, combining nutrition consulting and dairy management. His role demands wearing many hats, ensuring daily operations align with the farm’s goals.

“We touch base with all the managers every day,” he emphasizes, outlining the importance of regular communication to preempt potential issues.

Meanwhile, Beavers manages an extensive operation in the Texas Panhandle, encompassing dairy, beef feedlot and a custom forage business. Initially hired as the CFO due to his ag finance background, Beaver’s role has evolved to include overseeing daily management tasks.

“We’ve outsourced a lot of that functionality,” he notes, explaining the shift in his responsibilities.

Empowering Teams in Dairy Operations
A critical aspect of running a successful dairy operation is empowering the team. Both Anderson and Beavers understand that managing teams requires a combination of trust, clear communication and appreciation.

“You have to know your employees; they have to feel like you actually care about them, and then you can challenge them,” Anderson shares, noting this approach fosters an environment where employees feel valued and motivated to excel. Establishing a clear culture and setting out the vision are crucial steps in this process.

Beaver’s method involves building a culture of empowerment and trust.

“Managing teams is a big part of your day to day,” he says. Recognizing achievements and celebrating milestones, such as hosting barbecues for employees, is an integral part of this strategy.

Building Trust and Relationships
Building a strong employer-employee relationship is indispensable in the agricultural sector.

“Thank yous go a really long way,” Anderson says. This simple act of acknowledgment can strengthen workplace relationships and improve morale.

Beavers echoes this sentiment, noting how necessary it is for employees to feel like a valued part of the family.

“We ask a lot of these special people to work for us that are family,” he says, emphasizing that showing appreciation is more than just good practice; it’s essential for long-term success.

The insights shared by this duo provide a valuable glimpse into the challenges and rewards of managing complex dairy operations. Their leadership approaches demonstrate that a successful farm is not just about productivity and profits but also about fostering a supportive and empowered work environment. For anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills in the agricultural industry, these farm managers offer a blueprint for success.

Your Next Read:
How Top-Deck Holsteins Produces 33,500 Pounds of Milk from 700 Cows

Santa Will Drink More than 5 Million Gallons of Milk This Christmas Eve

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 19:49:26 GMT

With all his hard work delivering toys to an estimated 300 million kids this Christmas, Santa is sure to work up a hefty appetite. To quench his thirst, Kriss Kringle is relying on America’s dairy farmers to help produce his drink of choice – real milk!

According to the Dairy Alliance, approximately 86 million homes celebrate Christmas. If each household leaves one 8 oz. glass of milk out for St. Nick to enjoy, he will consume an estimated 688 million ounces of nature’s most perfect beverage.

This equates to:

46,225,000 lbs. of milk
5,375,000 million gallons of milk
Roughly 716 tanker-trailers full of milk
Enough milk to make more than 4 million lbs. of cheese or ice cream
Enough milk to fill eight Olympic-sized swimming pools
A day’s worth of milk from approximately 827,000 cows

Whether it’s whole milk, 2%, eggnog or chocolate, Santa sure loves to drink the good stuff – real milk from real, hardworking dairy farm families!

For more Holiday stories, read:

Standing Up for Whole Milk by Sharing the Whole Story

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 15:12:25 GMT

Every now and then, amidst the never-ending lists of tasks and chores, you hear something that reminds you why you do it. Often finding herself surrounded by kindergarteners, Magdalene Gerst frequently hears comments like, “Oh, this is the dark brown chocolate milk. This is the really good stuff!”

It’s a cute quote, and it was fun to hear. It may have even been one of those “why we do it” moments, but it’s also part of a story that proves something has to change.

Gerst is a seventh-generation farmer from Richmond Farms Dairy, a 200-cow dairy in North Collins, New York. As a past dairy princess and mom of three, she has a knack for connecting with young kids about what she does and where their milk comes from.

During her visits to schools, Gerst has noticed an unfortunate trend. “Kids won’t even touch the one percent,” she says. “They can only get non-fat for lunch, and if a five-year-old can notice, it really says something.” At home, many kids are drinking two percent or whole milk. And when the milk at school tastes different, the kids don’t drink it, and they miss out on the nutrients dairy provides.

(Magdalene Gerst)

Seeing this part of the story play out time and again has given Gerst the motivation and message she needs to speak with the legislators who can help make a change. “We had our congressman out to the farm when he first got elected,” she recalls. “We talked to him about things that are important to us and just let him see what’s going on.”

More recently, Gerst traveled with the National Young Cooperators to Washington, DC. “We talked to our representatives about the key things, one being ‘Whole Milk for Healthy Kids,’” Gerst says. “That was an easy thing to talk about from being in the schools.”

(Magdalene Gerst)

From those experiences, Gerst has learned what works – and what doesn’t. “In the past, we’ve written letters,” she says. “I’m sure they get them but there’s no follow-through. But when we physically made an appointment and we’re sitting in their office, follow that up with a thank-you card and they’re gonna remember that connection.”

Since hosting the congressman on the farm, communication has opened up both ways. “You’ve got to set up that first connection. I like to keep the door open so they’re welcome to visit anytime,” Gerst says. “I’ll show them around and answer any of their questions.”

Gerst wears many hats on the farm, and she pulls from all of her experiences to make sure she has a good story to share with anyone she meets. On any given day, she could be managing embryo transfers, payroll, or working with the vet – and all with a toddler in tow.

(Magdalene Gerst)

For both legislators and kindergarteners, she says those real-life stories are key: “Letting them know what the day-to-day looks like, and letting them feel included,” she says. “Especially for the kids, they want to see pictures, or they want something physical they can touch. So I take a calf into the school. I take feed and let them make a trail mix – as we call it – but then teach them what that is.”

Several months after her visits to her kids’ schools, Gerst is still hearing those reaffirming comments like, “Did you bring chocolate milk today?” or “Are you gonna bring a calf again?”

Gerst feels strongly about bridging those gaps right from the beginning, instead of trying to correct misinformation. She loves seeing their faces light up and knowing she’s showing them something they will remember and share at home. “I love kids, so that makes it even more fun. We have a great story to tell, and if we don’t tell it, someone else is going to make up their own story to tell on us.”

A Conversation With Ag Secretary Rollins on Labor, Disease and MAHA

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 19:59:30 GMT

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins stuck to streamlining the federal government labor rules to alleviate dairy’s worker crisis and said more aggressive measures are coming to prevent and contain disease, in an interview with Dairy Herd Management. Rollins this week was at the joint annual meeting hosted by National Milk Producers Federation, the United Dairy Board and the United Dairy Industry Association in Arlington, Texas.

While there, she said the H-2A visa program is particularly broken for dairy, which requires year-round support instead of seasonal workers. She also said measures, such as mandatory testing for lactating dairy cattle prior to interstate movement, are not aggressive enough to address modern biosecurity threats.

Below is a summary of Dairy Herd’s 20-minute conversation with Rollins, who discussed labor, disease prevention as well as her feelings on the “Make America Healthy Again” movement.

What Federal Efforts Are in the Works to Ensure Adequate Labor for U.S. Dairies?

One of the central concerns among dairy producers, and the entire industry, is comprehensive immigration reform. To put it in perspective, more than two-thirds of today’s 9.36 million dairy cows are milked by immigrant laborers in the U.S., according to the National Milk Producers Federation.

Currently, the H-2A visa applies strictly to seasonal or temporary labor. Dairy operations, however, require consistent, skilled workers every day of the year. Milking and caring for cows, managing processing facilities and ensuring food safety are daily tasks that don’t pause between seasons. This mismatch leaves dairy farmers and processors nationwide without a legal means to fulfill their guestworker needs.

In addition to the need for year-round help, Secretary Rollins notes farmers must interact with three different federal agencies to use the H-2A program. Moreover, the costs associated with securing labor have significantly increased, with reports from farmers in south Texas indicating average hourly costs, including transportation and housing, reaching $30 to $35 per hour. Comparatively, similar labor across the border is $2 per hour, Rollins says, illustrating a system that is both unsustainable and inherently unfair.

Ideally, any H-2A program changes will reduce costs and red tape, but comprehensive solutions ultimately require congressional action.

In addition to visa programs, Secretary Rollins says the current administration remains focused on sealing borders and mass deportations.

“Everyone understands the dynamics of an open border, and the millions and millions, we’re unable to count how many, that crossed during the last administration. The President’s No. 1 promise as a candidate in 2022 through 2024 was sealing the border and mass deportations,” she says. “Looking at this challenge through the lens of understanding labor is absolute when we can’t feed ourselves, combined with where we are in terms of immigration, those are the nuances.”

How is the Administration Addressing Threats to Animal Ag?
On day 1, after being sworn in as Secretary of Ag, Rollins was briefed on HPAI . She made it clear that while some measures, such as mandatory testing for lactating dairy cattle prior to interstate movement , had been enacted, a broader and more aggressive approach is necessary. Recognizing that maintaining the status quo was insufficient, a comprehensive strategy was essential — not just from USDA but across the entire federal government.

“I realize there are lots of opinions on my boss, President Trump, but I think the one thing that most people would agree on is that he leaves it all in the field. And, that we have to do everything we can for this moment that we were given to fix a very broken system, whatever that system may look like, in this case, which is animal disease,” Rollins says.

In February 2025, the Trump administration set forth a five-point plan to combat HPAI . Rollins notes the dairy sector, in particular, showcased remarkable adaptability to HPAI threats, demonstrating industry resilience and proactive measures.

Significant investments, such as a $100 million innovation grant , have been allocated to explore vaccines and therapeutic solutions. However, the complexities of viral mutations necessitate caution, especially regarding vaccination strategies, to prevent potentially more dangerous strains from emerging.

“I think we’re going to make more progress than perhaps has been made. Having said that, it’s a virus and the virus always wins,” she says, noting they are worried about New World screwworm and took aggressive actions to combat that by closing several ports.

“We’ve not imported new animals, which is one of the reasons beef prices are up, but we are looking now to figure out how to start reopening ports. I think we’ve gotten our arms around exactly what the problem is,” she says. “We’re building out new sterile fly facilities, which is the only way we eradicated it 30 to 40 years ago, but we have a really good system in place.”

Rollins shares collaborations with international counterparts are stronger, creating an unprecedented partnership with Mexican authorities to manage and preempt future animal agriculture outbreaks effectively. Enhanced border protocols, including disinfection and ivermectin treatments for imports, underscore a commitment to protecting livestock health.

“I feel confident that we are aggressively attacking all pieces of NWS,” she says.

What Does the MAHA Movement’s Mean for Dairy?
The “Make America Healthy Again” movement aims to revamp the nation’s food system, and Rollins offers reassurance dairy products at the forefront.

“Health care costs too much. We’re not getting the care we need, especially to vulnerable populations. How do we fix that?” she asks. “Over the last year, it is completely flipped to, what are Americans eating? What are we serving in our schools? What are we serving in our SNAP program, which 42 million Americans are on the food stamp program.”

While the current economic situation is troubling, Rollins is confident in the long-term potential for profitability and sustainability in the dairy industry.

“What milk, cheese and other dairy products mean as we completely and fundamentally shift our entire food system is our dairy industry is at the very front tip of the spear,” she says, noting the response markets are answering and the dairy industry, too, with the $11 billion in new processing plants, U.S. dairy is riding a wave of momentum that is fueled by consumer demand.

“In the long term, I’m not sure there is an agriculture industry that has more to gain and that will see more of a pivot toward real profitability and real sustainability than this [dairy] industry. I could not be more excited to help lead on that,” she says.

Your Next Read:
Beef-on-Dairy Silver Linings in the Current Margin Equation

Milk’s Got Game: Powering Athletes from the Fridge to the Field

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:34:33 GMT

In the world of sports, there’s a magic ingredient behind the scenes that’s been fueling athletes long before the stadium lights shine at game time — real dairy milk. The Dairy Alliance, a nonprofit group supported by dairy farm families in the Southeast, is once again championing this powerhouse through their “Milk’s Got Game” campaign. This year, they’re featuring SEC football stars Gunner Stockton and Talyn Taylor of Georgia, and Jake Merklinger of Tennessee, along with their all-important teammates — their moms.

Revolutionizing Milk as a Sports Drink
Joanne Engelhardt-Risko, vice president of Strategic Marketing at The Dairy Alliance, highlights the benefits and growing impact of real dairy milk in sports nutrition, positioning it as a powerful and reliable choice for athletic performance and recovery.

“Real dairy milk fueled these athletes while they were growing up, and it continues to power their routines today,” she explains. The campaign not only spotlights dairy milk’s continuing evolution but also celebrates the significant role moms play — the original champions who made sure milk was always a part of their children’s nutrition.

A Family Connection from Farm to Field
With heartfelt testimonials from athletes like Gunner Stockton and their moms, the campaign captures the authentic bond between family, nutrition and athletic performance. Stockton reflects on how his mom, Sherrie, always included milk in his diet — fueling both his practice sessions and game days. Jake Merklinger of Tennessee mirrors this sentiment, acknowledging how his mother recognized the importance of real dairy milk early on.

Samantha Craun and Jennifer Glover, two dairy farmers from Tennessee and Georgia, respectively, stress the intrinsic connection between their farms and families nationwide.

“From our farms to your family, milk has always delivered the nutrition and strength to fuel athletes on the field and at home,” they share, underscoring milk’s unwavering legacy.

Engelhardt-Risko says moms play a special role for nutrition with the family.

“When you really think about it, moms were the first coaches,” she says. “Milk was always there when you connected with your children, and pairing mom with their SEC athletes made it very authentic — very powerful. Most of all, it made it very, very personal, and we made that connection with our consumers.”

The Campaign’s Impact and Reach
Launched in September, the “Milk’s Got Game” campaign is already making waves, boasting millions of impressions and expanding its influence to celebrities across different sports. The robust presence across platforms, from social media to press interviews, underlines its success and widespread resonance.

“Were over 97 million impressions to date,” Engelhardt-Risko shares, noting the goal is getting to more than 200 million total impressions.

Celebrating Community and Authenticity
At its core, the campaign transcends beyond the star-studded athlete line-up. It’s a celebration of family and community. It honors the dairy farmers whose dedication fuels this initiative, keeping milk’s powerful and nutritious story alive for future generations.

“We’re honoring the people who really make this happen, and that’s our dairy farmers in the Southeast,” Engelhardt-Risko says. “It’s their farms, their families, that allow us to do this. And that really is the basis for this whole campaign. It highlights how milk really continues to be powerful and nutritious, and it’s still and will continue to fuel our families now and into the future.”

From the quiet moments at the breakfast table to the roaring crowds in the stadium, milk’s role is as timeless as it is vital. The “Milk’s Got Game” campaign reminds us all that the cornerstone of an active lifestyle, athletic performance and family connection begins with a glass of milk — and the loving hands that pour it.

Your Next Read:
Genetic Advancements in Dairy Helping Meet the Protein Craze Demand

Farm Moms: Balance Harvests and Heart with Practical Meal Tips

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 14:03:43 GMT

Harvest time is a season of relentless energy and unwavering dedication. As the roar of a diesel tractor marks the beginning of the summer harvest, some farm families opt for a plan that merges practicality with care. A couple of dairy farm moms share how they have perfected the balancing act of feeding and nurturing their families amidst the busiest times of the year.

The Practical Pioneer: Emily Zweber, Minnesota Farm Mom
In Elko, Minn., dairy mom Emily Zweber has been navigating hay season alongside her husband for over two decades. Her secret? Simple, yet effective meal prep. Over the years, Zweber has discovered special field meals aren’t a necessity.

“If that is your thing, awesome,” she says with encouragement. “But also, if special field meals aren’t your thing, awesome.”

Working side-by-side on their dairy farm with her husband Tim, and their trio of children, Zweber milks 100 grass-fed, organic cows and manages 400 acres. Amidst this, she sends her crew out with lunchboxes filled with “preschool snacks,” designed to be eaten with dirty hands, that can endure a day in a warm lunch box. The selection includes apples, frozen string cheese, veggie pouches, and, of course, the humble PB&J.

Zweber’s message is empowering: farm moms shouldn’t stress over juggling multiple roles. The pressure to achieve perfection is replaced by her mantra to work smarter, not harder.

The Efficient Enthusiast: Kristina Haverkamp, Kansas Farm Mom
Echoing Zweber’s sentiments is Kristina Haverkamp from Seneca, Kan. Juggling a full kitchen in the shop and an acreage of responsibility, Haverkamp keeps her refrigerator stocked with sandwich staples and healthy snacks. The convenience is vital as every load of silage is weighed at their shop.

“I ensure the fridge is stocked with cold water and even cold beer for the end of the day,” Haverkamp shares.

When the workload intensifies, she prepares goody bags with a hot sandwich and additional snacks. For Haverkamp, it’s all about maintaining momentum and boosting morale.

Despite her busy schedule of chores, she orchestrates this routine seamlessly. Her efforts ensure everyone is content, allowing the farming operations to continue without a hitch.

“Hats off to all of us who work in acres not hours,” Haverkamp declares, celebrating the tireless spirit of farm moms everywhere.

Zweber and Haverkamp showcase a common truth among farm moms across the U.S. – efficiency without sacrificing heart. As farm wives and mothers become increasingly busy this time of year, there’s a gentle reminder from these seasoned experts: it’s perfectly okay to work smarter.

Best Tips
Cooking for a crowd doesn’t have to be a burden. In fact, some of the best meals are born from simplicity and a touch of innovation. Whether it’s a one-pot wonder, a quick bite between tasks, or a hearty dish that fuels the entire team, your tips can transform the way we see meal preparation — not just as a chore, but as a way to nourish our community.

So, fellow farm warriors, what’s your favorite field meal snack or tip? Truth be told, most moms hate the question, “What’s for dinner?” So, when the meal load becomes heavy — as we are not only feeding our families, but also the crew helping us farm — let’s rally together, supporting each other through the rhythmic dance of farming and family life.

Your Next Read:
The Strategy Behind an Eight-Generation Dairy Legacy

From Brew to Moo: The Sustainable Dairy Practices at Ayers Farm

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:45:53 GMT

A good brew isn’t just for humans — it’s on the menu for the Holstein cows at Ayers Farm in Perryville, Ohio, too. This unique twist in cattle feed comes from an unexpected source: the Budweiser plant in Columbus. At Ayers Farm, home to more than 600 Holstein cows, this innovative use of brewer’s mash, a byproduct of the beer-making process, has become an integral part of their operation.

(Ayers Farm)

A Sustainable Diet
At Ayers Farm, sustainability is a key focus. The herd’s nutritionist orchestrates a delicate balance of crops and upcycled food byproducts to ensure the cows’ diet is both nutritious and environmentally conscious. Kathy Davis, a seventh-generation dairy farmer at Ayers Farms, emphasizes the importance of this approach.

“By using a byproduct from another process, we prevent it from ending up in a trash pile,” she says, underscoring their commitment to sustainable practices and innovative feed solutions that benefit their cows and the broader agricultural community.

Davis says they have been feeding distillers grains ever since she was in high school in the late ‘80s. She says farmers are the ultimate recyclers, adding they also include corn gluten, soybean meal and cottonseed to their cows’ diets.

“It was close by, and we could incorporate into the ration what would be beneficial,” she says, noting that prior to feeding distillers grains, the farm used potato waste from a nearby Frito Lay plant. “That is when we were feeding out steers. The potato starch content didn’t make it a good fit to feed our cows, but we’re always looking for benefits, and the distiller grain is economical, and our nutritionist was really excited about the possible benefits for it.”

(Ayers Farm)

Behind the Scenes
Ayers Farm isn’t just feeding its cows better — it’s also incorporating technology to enhance the health and productivity of their herd. From GEA activity monitors on breeding-age heifers, as well as lactating and dry cows to integrated feeding programs, plus DeLaval cameras in the maternity pens, the farm is leveraging tech to stay ahead. These systems provide valuable data that helps manage everything from health indicators to milk production metrics, ensuring issues are flagged before they become problems.

“It’s not just about milk production; it’s about having a good workforce and external partners, such as nutritionists and veterinarians, that help us achieve a sustainable, rewarding livelihood,” Davis shares. “Ultimately, it has to return a good livelihood to us and for our employees, so that our work-to-life balance is good, and we feel like we’re accomplishing something when we come to work every day.”

In addition to the cows, the Ayers have an equal number of replacement heifers and farm 1,500 acres. A total of 25 people work on their farm, which also includes owner-operators.

Challenges and the Future
Despite their advancements, like many farms, Ayers Farm faces challenges, particularly concerning labor and logistical hurdles in milk hauling. Yet, they are adapting, trying innovative solutions such as breeding and beef-on-dairy strategies to improve margins.

Looking ahead, steady communication and strategic planning are crucial for Ayers Farm, especially with generational transitions on the horizon. Davis’ father and uncle are in their ‘70s, while she and her cousin continue to accumulate more responsibilities. Succession planning not only involves the transfer of assets but also adapting the day-to-day share of operation responsibilities to ensure smooth management handoffs.

Ayers Farm is a testament to how traditional farming values can coexist with innovative practices. By incorporating distillers grains, optimizing feed through technology and planning for future generations, Ayers Farm continues to thrive in an ever-evolving agricultural landscape.

Your Next Read:
The Strategy Behind an Eight-Generation Dairy Legacy

The Two Worst Words a Farm Kid Can Say

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 14:18:10 GMT

Growing up on a farm is a unique experience that shapes vocabulary, attitude and lifestyle in countless ways. When you grow up on a farm, certain phrases become ingrained in your vocabulary, like “feed the calves” or “fix the fence” or “mow the grass,” but one phrase, in particular, is notably absent: “I’m bored.” In fact, these two little words should never escape the lips of a farm kid. On a farm, “boredom” is akin to a curse word, a concept almost as foreign as a cow that milks itself.

If, by some rare chance, a farm kid proclaims boredom, rest assured the farmer will always have a response, usually in the form of work. From fixing fences to milking cows, the endless list of tasks ensures there’s always something to occupy one’s time. Growing up, the idea of being bored was so unfathomable that even as a mere whisper, it would trigger an avalanche of chores.

I remember telling my mother, I was bored, could I go to the mall. My father overheard and said that rocks needed picked from the cattle corral.

In a world where other children would spend summer days at the mall or at a pool or watching television, farm kids are busy hauling manure, feeding calves, mowing grass, vaccinating cows, baling hay, getting their prize show animals ready for the fair and other tasks under the summer sun. During my own childhood, these activities kept me so occupied the notion of boredom seemed laughable.

The sheer sense of community and responsibility that arises from sharing in the farm work creates a mindset where leisure activities, such as trips to the movies or the mall, are rare and treasured luxuries.

Farm life might not be Instagram-worthy at times, but it certainly prepares children for the real world, as they learn resilience and a strong work ethic from an early age. If your own farm kids have ever echoed this curse word, how did you respond? Maybe you directed them toward the nearest trough that required cleaning or farm equipment to be washed.

Farm life is as much about character-building as it is about growing crops or raising livestock. It teaches adaptability and instills a sense of fulfillment born from hard work. The next time “I’m bored” is uttered, take it as an invitation to instill these valuable lessons, ensuring future generations uphold the traditions that make farm life so unique.

Your Next Read:
Dutch Dairy: Blending Tradition, Innovation and Community at the Heart of Wisconsin

From 'Prince of Darkness' to Farm Hand: Remembering Ozzy Osbourne’s Special Visit to Shatto Milk Company

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 19:09:07 GMT

In 2018, Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic “Prince of Darkness” who recently passed away at the age of 76, stepped away from the stage and onto a dairy during an episode of “Ozzy & Jack’s World Detour.” That day, he and his children, Jack and Kelly, paid a visit to Shatto Milk Company, a family-owned dairy and milk bottling company in Osborn, Missouri, for a behind-the-scenes look at farm life.

Barbra Shatto, owner of Shatto Milk Company, remembers the experience fondly.

“The producers contacted us a month or two before and asked if it would be okay to visit,” Shatto says. “They asked that we not tell anyone that we were coming, so we closed our doors to tours that day. We had to keep it a secret until the show aired on TV”

A True Shatto Experience
Though the visit was kept quiet, Shatto says it was anything but forgettable.

“Ozzy was his usual self — the black hat, the coat and just a little crazy,” she says with a laugh. “They wanted a tour, to try our products and to give their hand at milking a cow. One funny thing that really stood out about Ozzy was that he absolutely loved our strawberry ice cream. He carried around a cardboard box of it, ate it throughout the day and even took it with him when they left.”

Not surprisingly, Osbourne was especially fascinated by the cows and the milking process.

“He milked a cow and was genuinely interested in how it all worked,” she says. “It’s probably not something he was very familiar with, but he seemed to enjoy every bit of it.”

Ozzy, Jack and Kelly took in the full Shatto experience. From visiting the bottling line and browsing the country store to meeting the calves and walking through the barns, the Osbourne family spent their entire day taking it all in.

“They loved all of the farm activities,” Shatto says. “And they were all very down-to-earth. Ozzy went around and would talk to a lot of our employees and ask them questions. He talked with our herdsman about the cows and our store employees about the bottling process. It was just like having an old friend come and visit.”

In true Ozzy fashion, Shatto remembers how Ozzy needed a bit of gentle wrangling from his kids.

“It was sweet watching his children keep him in line,” Shatto laughs. “He would sort of wander off to look at things, so Jack and Kelly would have to reel him back in.”

Shatto’s Deep Roots
Hosting Ozzy and his family was especially meaningful for the Shatto team, whose dairy roots run deep.

“Our farm is a centennial farm, going back over 110 years. It’s been in my family for 85 years, and we currently milk around 300 cows,” she says. “In 2003, we built the bottling plant and launched Shatto Milk Company because the milk check just wasn’t cutting it. We wanted to keep our cows and start selling directly to consumers.”

Since then, Shatto Milk has built a loyal following for its small-batch, farm-fresh dairy products and bold flavored milks. The company has become particularly known for a few of its staple flavored milks, such as root beer, cookies and cream, cotton candy and coffee.

“We even do special edition flavors to celebrate the Chiefs during the playoffs and the Royals during the World Series,” she says. “We’re also starting a mocha protein drink soon.”

A Visit to Remember
Osbourne’s visit has become a cherished memory for Shatto and the employees at Shatto Milk. An experience that has since become even more meaningful following the news of his passing.

“I didn’t even know he had Parkinson’s,” Shatto says. “I was just talking about him with friends a couple days before the news came out. I was saddened to hear that he had passed. He was a legend.”

Reflecting on that special day, she adds, “It was exciting and such an honor to host him here. And the whole thing about our town being Osborn, which is spelled just a little differently, well, that became an inside joke for everyone. But truly, it was just so much fun having him here on the farm. He was kind to our workers, curious about the farm and left a fun memory behind for all of us.”

Following the release of the episode, Osbourne shared more about the experience in a 2018 interview with Rolling Stone, revealing that milking a cow wasn’t entirely new to him.

“Everyone was surprised I could do it,” he told Rolling Stone. “But years ago, when I’d come back off tour, when I’d have jet lag in the ’70s and there was no all-night TV [in England], I’d get up very early, and I’d walk up to this farmer who lived nearby. He was milking cows at, like, five in the morning, and he showed me how to do a few things. And I’d help milk cows. So, when I did it [on the show], everyone was like, ‘How did you know how to do that?’ And I’m like, ‘Well, I’m not just a singer.’”

And on that Missouri dairy farm, even if it was just for one day, he proved it.

The Sweetest States: Where America Loves Ice Cream Most

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 20:53:24 GMT

July is National Ice Cream Month, and Americans are indulging like never before. But which states truly have the biggest sweet tooth? Recent research from SpinBlitz analyzed Google Maps listings nationwide to rank states by ice cream shop density, specifically the number of ice cream shops per 100,000 residents. Here are the top states who take their frozen dairy treats most seriously.

Top 10 Ice Cream-Loving States

1. Vermont (18.51 shops per 100K residents) Vermont tops the list with the highest number of ice cream shops per capita, and it’s not just thanks to Ben & Jerry’s. The state has a strong dairy foundation and a deep appreciation for small-batch, locally made ice cream. Whether in rural towns or tourist-friendly spots, ice cream shops are a visible part of Vermont’s food culture.

2. West Virginia (18.08) West Virginia ranks second in ice cream shop density thanks to a strong presence of locally owned parlors, custard stands and small-town scoop shops. It might not be a headline-grabbing food destination, but the state has a steady, long-standing appreciation for traditional favorites like banana splits, hand-dipped cones and floats.

3. Rhode Island (17.84) Rhode Island earns bronze in the nation for ice cream shop density. Known for regional favorites like frozen lemonade and coffee milkshakes, the state also supports a strong network of ice cream parlors across its coastal towns and neighborhoods. From tourist areas to local main streets, frozen treats are easy to find.

4. Pennsylvania (17.58) Pennsylvania ranks fourth with a diverse ice cream scene that reflects its mix of communities. From family-run creameries in rural areas to innovative shops in urban centers, the state offers a wide range of frozen dessert options.

5. Wisconsin (16.44) Known far and wide for its cheese, Wisconsin also delivers big on ice cream. Known as the Dairy State, it’s no surprise the state is brimming with mom-and-pop scoop shops, custard stands and local brands producing rich ice cream. Whether you’re at a farmstead creamery or a college-town cone counter, Wisconsin’s pride for ice cream shines.

6. Illinois (16.12) Chicago might be the driving force behind Illinois’ ranking, with its booming food scene filled with Instagram-worthy sundaes, small-batch gelato and quirky flavors. But don’t overlook the rural towns and suburbs, where old-school diners and small-town scoop shops keep the classics alive.

7. New Mexico (15.89) The only Southwestern state to crack the top 10, New Mexico might surprise you. But with sizzling summer temperatures and a thriving local food culture, it makes sense frozen treats are in demand. You’ll find shops serving everything from chile-spiked chocolate to cactus fruit sorbet.

8. Michigan (15.79) Snow doesn’t stop Michiganders from indulging. With thousands of inland lakes and summer tourists flooding towns like Traverse City and Petoskey, ice cream is a lakeside staple. From old-fashioned scoops to cherry-studded blends, Michigan’s ice cream culture is powered by nostalgia, local ingredients and a serious sweet tooth.

9. New Hampshire (15.54) New England knows its dairy, and New Hampshire is no exception. This state might not be flashy, but its abundance of seasonal roadside stands, maple-infused flavors and mom-and-pop ice cream stops make it a solid contender. Summer drives through the mountains or along the lakes are rarely complete without a cone in hand.

10. New York (15.35) New York ranks 10^th, where ice cream is as diverse as the state itself. From trendy, creative scoop shops and food trucks in the heart of New York City to time-tested creameries in upstate towns, there’s a flavor and style for everyone. With tourists and locals alike lining up for their favorite cones, New York’s ice cream doesn’t disappoint.

See How Your State Stacks Up in the Ice Cream Race
Whether you’re craving a classic cone or something a little more adventurous, it’s clear that some states really know how to satisfy that ice cream craving. Curious how all 50 states stack up in the great ice cream showdown? Check out the full ranking and see where your home ranks:

Rank	State	Ice Cream Shops per 100,000 residents
1	Vermont	18.51
2	West Virginia	18.08
3	Rhode Island	17.84
4	Pennsylvania	17.58
5	Wisconsin	16.44
6	Illinois	16.12
7	New Mexico	15.89
8	Michigan	15.79
9	New Hampshire	15.54
10	New York	15.35
11	Massachusetts	14.99
12	North Dakota	14.92
13	Ohio	14.90
14	Maine	14.89
15	Nebraska	14.83
16	Alaska	14.79
17	Indiana	14.78
18	Idaho	14.27
19	Delaware	14.05
20	Montana	14.00
21	South Dakota	13.96
22	Hawaii	13.78
23	Florida	13.67
24	New Jersey	13.61
25	Wyoming	13.56
26	Mississippi	13.25
27	Iowa	13.02
28	North Carolina	12.58
29	Texas	12.40
30	Arkansas	12.23
31	California	12.10
32	Arizona	12.09
33	Kansas	11.71
34	Connecticut	11.60
35	Virginia	11.25
36	Oklahoma	10.66
37	Nevada	10.54
38	Utah	10.38
39	Minnesota	10.37
40	Oregon	10.37
41	Tennessee	10.26
42	Louisiana	10.20
43	Georgia	10.00
44	Colorado	9.98
45	Kentucky	9.73
46	Washington	9.43
47	Alabama	9.23
48	South Carolina	8.80
49	Maryland	8.56
50	Missouri	8.44

Fight for Every Drop: Water Issues Hit Washington's Dairy

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 15:04:44 GMT

Water scarcity remains a formidable challenge in many agricultural sectors, and the dairy industry in Washington is no exception. For Jason Sheehan, a fourth-generation dairy farmer running J&K Dairy in eastern Washington, effective water management is crucial. With a herd of 3,000 cows and a farm spanning 2,000 acres, Sheehan’s operations are significantly impacted by water storage issues in the state.

Pro-Rated Water Management
Sheehan highlights how the water supply in the Yakima Valley of Washington is heavily dependent on natural snowmelt from the mountains. However, his water is now being allocated on a prorated basis.

“Pro rationing basically is because the water is coming into the reservoir as fast it’s going out,” he explains.

The rapid loss of snowpack leads to a cautious approach toward water storage control, which impacts how much water farms like Sheehan’s can access.

Brad Rippey, Meteorologist with the USDA says, “Soil seemed to be unusually thirsty across much of the west, so we’re not seeing all of that runoff go right into the reservoirs. If that were happening, we really wouldn’t have as much of a problem because that water would still be conserved. It would be held in a different form than the snowpack, but at least it would be stored in reservoirs, but we are seeing some loss due to thirsty soils.”

Current and Future Drought Conditions
According to the Department of Ecology for the State of Washington, the Yakima Basin experienced consecutive droughts in 2023 and 2024. Heading into the irrigation season, predictions indicate a possible third year of drought — a scenario not seen since the early 1990s. These conditions pose significant challenges for the region’s farmers.

While planting corn during an interview with Dairy Herd Management, Sheehan noted they would halt operations to wait for a new water allocation, saying, “Whatever is left in the reservoirs is what we get split up for the year.” Though operating on a 36" annual allocation, they are set to receive only 48% of that this summer, which is below the 70% needed to avoid drought conditions.

“70% is really what we need,” he says. “We get down below 70%, and we’re basically in the drought,” he says.

Adapting Farming Practices
Sheehan’s farming methods include no-till practices, and recently, he pulled out of a 120-acre pivot despite having planted on 117 acres.
“We’re chasing the chopper down, and I’ve got water ordered,” he says, illustrating the tightrope farmers constantly walk, adapting their practices based on the availability of water. “We’re going to start water up and try to get this field irrigated before the water is shut off. You kind of learn have to learn how to farm around the way our irrigation district works.”

Collaborative Solutions for Water Management
The Yakima Basin Integrated Plan was formed to manage water scarcity in Yakima County and has involved collaboration among irrigation districts, tribes and environmentalists since the mid-2000s.

Sheehan acknowledges the complexity of the issue but underscores the importance of increased storage capacity.

“In the end, what’s going to solve a lot of these water issues is simply storage,” he says. “We’ve got a lot of lower elevation water right now that’s going straight to the Columbia River and out to the ocean that we could be capturing -and we don’t.”

Water scarcity is an enduring issue demanding innovative solutions, and Washington’s dairy farmers are just one of many states that are on the frontline of this battle.

Your Next Read:
The Big Debate Over Dairy Farm Expansion: Environmental Protection or Industry Hindrance?

An Incredible Bird's-Eye Look at the State of the Dairy Industry

Mon, 19 May 2025 14:15:39 GMT

Editor’s Note: This is one article in a series that is included in the 2025 Farm Journal’s State of the Dairy Industry report. The full 16-page report will appear in the May/June issues of Dairy Herd Management and Milk Business Quarterly and will be published in this space over the next several weeks. To download the full report for free click here.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

The dairy industry is undergoing rapid transformation and innovation at an unprecedented pace. As part of its ongoing efforts to understand these shifts, Farm Journal recently conducted a comprehensive survey involving 400 dairy producers across the U.S.

These producers, representing herds ranging from 100 to 20,000 cows, provided valuable insights into their current operations and future outlooks.

Technology Integration

In an era where technology permeates nearly every aspect of life, the dairy industry stands at the forefront of this transformative wave. The integration of technology is no longer just an option; it has become a crucial step toward creating a more efficient and sustainable dairy industry. From feeding systems to health monitoring devices, technology helps dairy farmers optimize operations and ensure animal welfare.

A recent survey highlights a significant shift in the adoption of technology within the dairy sector. Remarkably, two-thirds of dairies now use at least one form of feeding technology. These innovations are designed to streamline the feeding process, providing precise nutrient delivery to livestock and reducing waste. The result is a noticeable improvement in both efficiency and sustainability.

Diversifying Revenue Streams

In today’s changing economic landscape, many dairy producers are finding innovative ways to sustain and grow their businesses. The key to survival during these turbulent times seems to be diversification.

Farm Journal’s recent survey reveals approximately one-quarter of dairy producers have embraced alternative land or dairy add-on revenue streams. This shift underscores the industry’s agility and adaptability as producers look for various avenues to boost profitability.

One strategy gaining traction is the beef-on-dairy operation. An impressive three-quarters of operators are now involved in at least one beef-on-dairy practice, with breeding and raising being the most common methods. Though there has been a decline in the number of producers raising animals under their beef-on-dairy operations over the past year, there is a notable increase in the sale of branded beef products. This shift highlights the evolving dynamics within the industry as producers adapt to market demands.

Next-Gen Transfers

A significant concern facing the industry today is the impending wave of retirements among dairy operators, many of whom have not established formal succession plans. This situation is becoming increasingly urgent, with surveys indicating that a quarter of these operators intend to retire within the next five years.

Contrary to the retirement trend, there is also a strong movement toward growth and expansion within the industry. Almost half of the operators express a desire to expand their operations in the near future. Such ambition suggests confidence in the industry’s potential and reflects a proactive approach to ensuring a sustainable future. At the same time, an equivalent number of operators are planning to maintain their current herd sizes, indicating a focus on maximizing efficiency and resource management.

Sustainability Program Awareness

Farm Journal’s recent survey reveals an array of insights regarding current sustainability practices and the prevailing awareness surrounding them. While the inclination toward adopting sustainable practices is reassuring, a deficiency in program awareness raises concerns that need to be addressed.

Encouragingly, over half of survey respondents (63%) reported participating in at least one sustainable practice. This trend is indicative of a growing societal shift toward environmental responsibility. Interestingly, larger operations, particularly those with substantial herd sizes and extensive acreage, tend to embrace sustainability more comprehensively. This trend is most pronounced in the Western region.

Reality of Workforce Shortages

A recent survey highlights the growing dependency of the dairy industry on non-family labor. For many respondents, non-family members consist of at least 50% of their workforce. This shift is indicative of broader changes within the industry as traditional family-run farms adapt to meet growing demands. However, hiring and retaining workers continues to be significant challenges. With evolving labor-related aspects indicating enduring challenges, the industry must explore viable solutions to continue thriving.

Despite the adoption of new technologies, the challenges of hiring and retaining a reliable workforce remain. Farmers must continue to balance the integration of technology with human labor, ensuring that both aspects work in harmony to drive growth and productivity. These changes suggest a long-term shift in how labor is approached, maintaining traditional farming values while embracing modern advancements.

Optimistic Horizon

The dairy sector is witnessing renewed confidence, energized by innovative strategies and fueled by a younger generation of forward-thinking dairy operators ready to embrace change. Their willingness to adopt advanced technologies and improved herd management techniques is reshaping the landscape of dairy farming. By integrating strategic solutions, these operators are setting a new standard that promises to uplift the entire industry.

According to surveys, 44% of producers plan to expand their operations in the next five years. This drive to scale indicates a strong belief in the trajectory of the dairy industry and its ability to thrive amid changing global dynamics.

The 2025 Farm Journal State of the Dairy Industry Report is available for download here .

Bridging the Gap: How Land O’Lakes Supports Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Career

Wed, 07 May 2025 13:54:35 GMT

Every year, many U.S. service members face the challenge of transitioning from military to civilian life. The life-altering change can be intimidating as they integrate into society and carve new career paths.

Among them is Col. Patrick Schlichenmeyer, who completed a 34-year career with the U.S. Air Force in 2023 and found himself facing a future he hadn’t initially focused on during his service years.

A Lifetime of Service

Schlichenmeyer’s journey began when he entered the Air Force Academy in 1989 at age 18. During his career he served as a pilot, participated in staff assignments and held command positions in combat. By summer 2022, as his mandatory service time came to an end, he started contemplating life outside the military.

“When I entered the military, I wanted to serve where my country needed me,” Schlichenmeyer says. “I served as long as I could, and then I had to transition to civilian life. I didn’t start thinking about my future until about a year before.”

Schlichenmeyer was certain about one thing: a desire to permanently return to Minnesota’s Twin Cities, where his wife resided in a suburb of St. Paul. While eager to reunite, the change also brought an element of uncertainty.

“I entered the academy at 18, so that was all I knew,” he says. “I had some idea of civilian culture through my spouse, but there were many unknowns.”

Discovering SkillBridge

Schlichenmeyer wouldn’t forge a new path alone. With a transition focused on the Twin Cities, he began exploring the SkillBridge program, which helps service members explore new career fields and gain experience. Land O’Lakes, which participates in the program, emerged as a potential destination for Schlichenmeyer’s skills.

SkillBridge offers a support system to help military personnel find civilian workforce opportunities. The program connects service members with corporate partners across the country and provides up to 180 days of “permissive duty” for them to get on-the-job training as interns for a company, with the goal of providing full-time job opportunities. SkillBridge helped nearly 8,500 service members find work with around 5,000 companies nationwide in the third quarter of 2024, according to the program website.

Once connected with someone at Land O’Lakes, Schlichenmeyer explored job openings and assessed if the company’s culture matched his aspirations.

“From there, I started looking at the employee website and was extremely surprised at how open Land O’Lakes is about their people, their mission, what the executive leadership team believes in,” he says. “The more that I read and understood what the company stood for, that’s something that I felt would be a good fit. I was surprised at how open Land O’Lakes is about their mission and values. The more I learned, the more it felt like a good fit.”

Embracing a New Role

Schlichenmeyer joined Land O’Lakes in February 2023 as a SkillBridge intern. He now serves as operational excellence manager at the company’s Melrose, Minn., dairy plant and was recently appointed as an expert project manager at headquarters.

Schlichenmeyer’s story is one example of the many benefits of SkillBridge. Julie Sexton, senior vice president and chief human resources officer at Land O’Lakes, emphasizes the value veterans bring.

“It’s about recruiting broadly across diverse talent pools,” she says. “Post-COVID, we expanded our recruitment strategies.”

Sexton describes the partnership with SkillBridge as both successful and fulfilling, reflecting Land O’Lakes’ mission to support those who have served.

“It’s rewarding to help service members transition to the next phase of life,” she says. “It’s a way of giving back to valuable community members.”

Land O’Lakes’ involvement with the SkillBridge program has yielded numerous success stories, with 13 current interns and 25 veterans completing internships — seven of whom secured full-time roles.

“I was looking for some place where I could go to work with good people who care about each other that are doing something important for this country,” Schlichenmeyer says. “That’s Land O’Lakes.”

His journey from a seasoned Air Force colonel to a leadership role in the civilian sector not only demonstrates the adaptability and impact of programs like SkillBridge, it serves as inspiration for other veterans embarking on their own transitions.

Your Next Read: Finding Strength in Adversity: A Wisconsin Farm Girl’s Inspiring Journey

Trade Turbulence Could Shake Up Dairy Exports to China

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 20:37:59 GMT

Ongoing trade tensions and tariff negotiations between the U.S. and China are beginning to impact dairy markets, particularly for dry whey, whey permeate and lactose — products in which the U.S. is a leading global supplier.

More than half of U.S. dry whey and lactose production is shipped overseas, with China standing out as the largest buyer. But as trade disputes intensify, concern is growing that China might look elsewhere to meet its demand.

A Quick Tariff Recap
On April 2, President Donald Trump announced a new 34% tariff on goods imported from China into the U.S. Since then, that rate has increased to 84%. In response to the hike, China imposed a 34% retaliatory tariff on U.S. products entering the Chinese market.

But the back-and-forth retaliations didn’t end there. On April 9, the U.S. introduced further changes, announcing a 90-day pause on new tariffs for all countries except China, during which a universal 10% tariff would apply. However, for Chinese goods, tariffs are expected to increase to 125%.

U.S. Exports of Lactose and Whey
In 2024, the U.S. exported 409,000 metric tons (mt) of lactose, about 58% of the global market, according to a recent report from Rabobank. Of that, 110,000 mt were shipped to China, which accounted for 43% of total global lactose imports. In comparison, the European Union and United Kingdom combined exported only 33,000 mt of lactose to China.

While recent retaliatory tariffs are likely to put a dent in U.S. lactose exports to China, some volume may remain competitive. U.S. lactose is priced significantly lower, averaging around $834 per metric ton, compared to European prices, which range between $1,183 per metric ton and $1,918 per metric ton. Even with tariff retaliations, U.S. lactose could still offer better value in some segments when compared to the EU.

“The intensifying trade conflict between these two major trading partners could lead to shifts in lactose and whey trade, with potential export opportunities for Europe, Oceania and South America,” says Mary Ledman, global sector strategist for dairy at Rabobank.

“However, due to its competitive pricing, some U.S. lactose will likely still find a market in China. U.S. dry whey and permeate exports to China, on the other hand, are likely to fall significantly, with domestic U.S. prices for these commodities also declining,” Ledman says. “The trade war could result in lower prices for U.S. dairy producers, slimmer margins for traders and higher prices for Chinese end users and consumers.”

Phil Plourd, head of insights at Ever.ag, notes U.S. dairy exporters are already on edge.

“China takes a lot of U.S. whey products — dry whey, whey protein concentrates, permeate, lactose,” he says. “U.S. manufacturers and marketers had to be plenty concerned with the initial 34% levy announced by China late last week. Today, we’re up to 84%, which only makes things more challenging.”

Still, he acknowledges that the situation remains fluid, and both sides could be looking for ways to adapt.

“Even so, as is likely to be the case with many commodities and many countries, buyers and sellers are going to have to figure some things out,” Plourd says. “Do buyers have many immediate alternatives? Do sellers? Have buyers front-loaded, buying time for both sides to see how the dust settles? Over the short run, the unfolding actions aren’t a positive for prices. But it’s still early in this whole process.”

Will History Repeat Itself?
During a similar trade dispute in 2019, when China imposed a 25% tariff on U.S. whey products, U.S. exports of dry whey and permeate to China declined by 55%, and domestic prices fell by more than 35%. Lactose exports fell 33% during the same time period.

“When China implemented its 25% retaliatory tariff on U.S. imports in 2019, the U.S. dry whey market felt the brunt of this retaliation,” Ledman says. “At the time, China was also dealing with declining swine production due to an outbreak of African swine fever, resulting in lower whey and lactose exports to China for animal feed.”

However, with current tariffs now significantly higher than 2019, Ledman believes market pressure could be even more pronounced in the months ahead.

“RaboResearch expects the U.S. dry whey and corresponding milk markets to respond similarly to China’s new retaliatory tariffs in 2025, with the potential for more downside risk, given that the tariff is more punitive, totaling 36% as of April 10, and because the U.S. is experiencing an increase in production due to expanding cheese and whey production capacity.”

More Ripple Effects Likely to Come
As global trade flows adjust, there might be opportunities for Europe, Oceania and South America to expand their presence in the Chinese market. However, a mix of costs, product quality and supply constraints make this far from guaranteed.

In the meantime, the U.S.-China trade conflict adds another layer of uncertainty to global dairy markets.

Your Next Read:
Navigating the Tariff Tightrope When it Comes to Dairy Products

Where Will Farmworkers Come From in the Future?

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 15:04:22 GMT

As the dynamics of the global workforce continue to evolve, so too must the strategies to hire and retain an adequate on-farm labor force in the U.S.

The shrinking pool of workers in rural areas is a real concern for farmers, says Richard Stup, senior Extension associate and agricultural workforce specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension. One striking example is the declining birth rate in countries, such as Mexico, that historically have been sources of agricultural labor for the U.S.

“[The population in] Mexico, going forward, will begin to actually shrink,” he shared at the 2025 Western Dairy Management Conference. “It’s not just Mexico. There are a lot of countries in this situation.”

In addition to a smaller pool of workers willing to fill on-farm vacancies, economic opportunities in these countries, such as an increase in Mexico’s inflation-adjusted dollars, are reducing the push factor for migration.

“It means there’s more economic activity, there’s more job opportunity and there’s less push to leave Mexico and go to the U.S. for dollars,” he says. “There’s still a lot of push to come up here, but it’s not what it used to be.”

When looking at the data, Stup notes fewer young people are looking for work.

“The average age of foreign-born employees is about 42 years,” he says. For comparison, the average age of U.S. born employees on farms is 36 years old.

Two Employment Solutions
Despite these dynamics, immigration will still play a significant role in sustaining the on-farm workforce. To address workforce challenges, Stup says a couple programs exist:

One is the H-2A visa program, which allows an unlimited number of agricultural workers to enter the U.S., provided the work is temporary or seasonal.
Another viable option is the TN Visa, born from agreements such as NAFTA, enabling skilled professionals from Canada and Mexico to enter the U.S. for professional endeavors.

Navigating these pathways requires producers to have their paperwork, such as I-9 forms, in order, especially with current enforcement trends focusing on individuals with criminal backgrounds.

“It seems pretty consistent that most of the enforcement from ICE is in pursuit of individuals that have some kind of criminal background,” he shares.

With an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S., producers are advised to stay vigilant and prepared. It’s important to keep necessary documentation, such as I-9 forms, social security copies and identification such as driver’s licenses, well-organized and readily accessible, encourages Jamie Castaneda, executive vice president of policy development and strategy for the National Milk Producers Federation. Ensuring all paperwork is in compliance with federal and state laws is paramount if faced with an Immigration and Customs Enforcement inspection.

Embrace Technology and Workforce Development
Technology offers solutions to improve on-farm efficiency. Artificial intelligence (AI), for instance, can optimize tasks, allowing human workers to focus on animals requiring attention.

“Technology is going to be used in places where the work is repetitive and where it’s kind of heavy manual labor,” Stup says.

Workforce development is crucial as well. Supup underscores the need for retention programs and attracting a diverse pool of workers. Skills such as critical and systems thinking, data savviness and comfort with animals will be essential for future dairy workers. Education, whether formal or through on-the-job training, is equally important.

Build a Supportive Work Environment
To attract and maintain a robust workforce, it’s essential to create a positive work environment. Stup highlights the role of supervisors in leading effectively by setting clear expectations, providing necessary training and development, and giving constructive feedback on performance.

“We need to do what we can to retain and create a great place to work,” he says, noting supervisors need to lead effectively.

Supervisors need to spell out three main factors for employees:
1. Expectations. Clearly communicate what is expected of employees, including job descriptions, SOPs and onboarding.

2. Training and Development. Train, coach and use other efforts to teach knowledge, skills and attitudes.

3. Feedback. Give employees information about their performance to help them improve.

The future of the on-farm workforce will be diverse, comprising immigrants and individuals from various backgrounds, including those from urban environments new to agriculture. Balancing the need for manual and mental labor remains appealing, drawing in those uninterested in traditional office roles. The key is to retain and foster talent in the agriculture sector, giving rise to a dynamic and inclusive workforce that will carry the industry forward.

By adopting these strategies, farms can adapt to the shifting landscape, ensuring productivity and sustainability in the face of workforce changes.

Your Next Read: Rethinking the Term ‘Cheap Labor’ in the Dairy Industry

From Farm to 'Shark Tank:' One East Coast Dairy’s Eco-Friendly Pitch

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:14:52 GMT

In an unconventional yet charming spectacle, Amanda Freund, a Connecticut dairy farmer, packed her innovative spirit and two crucial items — a shovel and an inflatable cow costume — before heading west to make her vision a reality. Her destination: “Shark Tank,” where she aims to propel her creation, CowPots, into the mainstream.

Canaan View Dairy: The Beating Heart of Sustainability
Freund’s Farm, a diversified farm, with three farming enterprises, is not your average farm. Located on the bustling East Coast, their operation thrives on cutting-edge sustainability practices. Currently decked with 1,200 solar panels, the farm matches its own electricity needs through renewable energy. In fact, it boasts the longest continuously running methane digester in the country, turning biogas into another source of eco-friendly power.

(Amanda Freund)

Beyond merely generating power, manure from Canaan View Dairy serves multiple roles including transforming into fresh cow bedding and nutrient-rich fertilizer to sustainably grow crops. Perhaps its most innovative transformation, however, is into CowPots, biodegradable, plantable pots crafted from digested and composted manure, forming the backbone of Freund’s “Shark Tank” pitch.

A Revolution in Planting: The CowPots Story
CowPots emerged as a significant leap forward in eco-friendly innovation. These biodegradable staples are designed to turn composted manure into a planter for flowers and produce. This innovation ensures a sustainable cycle that supports the farm’s operations and enriches the community.

“We have been marketing CowPots for 18 years now, so we’re not a startup or new business like a lot of the entrepreneurs on the show,” she shares with Dairy Herd Management. “But as a small business, we have relied heavily on grassroots marketing. There have been a few exciting opportunities over the years, including features on “Dirty Jobs” with Mike Rowe and a spotlight on the “Martha Stewart Show.” As with any product and all marketing, it’s an ongoing and continuous endeavor to have our product in front of prospective customers.”

(Amanda Freund)

Not just stopping at innovation, the CowPots are employed at Freund’s family retail store, Freund’s Farm Market & Bakery, where they foster the produce and flowers enjoyed by both the family farm and surrounding community through the vibrant summer months. This synergy embodies the sustainability ethos propelling Freund’s pitch on the national stage.

All Eyes on “Shark Tank”
Freund’s journey culminates on an episode of “Shark Tank” airing Friday, April 4, at 8 p.m. on ABC. The Sharks, renowned for offering entrepreneurial hopefuls like Freund an avenue to exponential growth, wield the power to elevate CowPots into a household name.

Believing strongly in her family’s dedication to environmentally sound farming, Freund steps into the tank with an unwavering goal: to secure a deal that could transform her family’s sustainable dream into national success. Freund shares that nothing was guaranteed from initial casting to filming, and whether her pitch would make it on the air was uncertain, but the potential of getting on that stage in the “Shark Tank” was an exciting new opportunity to showcase their products.

“In the two months leading up to filming, it was very time-consuming providing all the required details, financials, graphics and pitches needed for the show,” she shares. “And so, now that I’ve done all the work, and on April 4, all I have to do is sit back and watch as everyone else gets to see whether or not I made a deal. I’m really excited about that. I’m proud to be able to showcase the ingenuity and sustainability of dairy farms on a national stage.”

(Amanda Freund)

As Freund takes center stage on “Shark Tank,” her journey underscores the transformative power of ingenuity and farming rooted in sustainability. CowPots are more than a pitch, they are a testament to what the future of farming could embody. As this Connecticut dairy farmer makes her case, viewers nationwide will bear witness to an inspiring eco-friendly narrative unfurling in front of the Sharks. And who knows, perhaps by the end of the episode, they too will become part of this sustainable story.

Your Next Read:
California Dreams: Transformation Through Innovation

This Modern Dairy Embraces Technology While Honoring Tradition

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 18:14:32 GMT

In the serene landscapes of Lancaster, Wis., a remarkable journey unfolds — one that intertwines technology, tradition and an enduring passion for dairy farming. Amanda Buschor, a dynamic young dairy farmer, has masterfully managed to blend her personal life and professional aspirations, all while spearheading the operations of Majestic View Dairy, a farm her family helped to establish four decades ago.

A Journey Through Education and Experience
Majestic View Dairy, now home to 1,100 mature cows and nearly 4,000 acres, is a long-standing partnership between Buschor’s parents, Ron and Terri Abing, and John Haskins’ family. Buschor’s early exposure to farming life was enriched by her hands-on experiences and formal education at Lakeshore Technical School, as well as growing up and working side-by-side with her family and other key employees on their farm.

(Merck Animal Health)

“Our farm herd managers were not afraid to try some things, and that really helped me realize what I wanted to do with my life,” she says. “At the time, I was actually going back and forth between nursing and a career in dairy herd management.”

Buschor’s time at Lakeshore Technical School further helped enrich her understanding of the industry, combining classroom learning with her real-world experiences on the farm. It is during this time she took on an internship with Soaring Eagle Dairy, LLC in Newton, Wis.

“That family took the time to teach me so many hands on learning opportunities,” Buschor shares.

Obviously, these experiences shaped her passion for dairy farming. This eventually led her back to her family farm, where she now helps oversee 28 full and part-time employees.

Game-Changer Technology
In 2016, Buschor’s sister, Sarah, who had been vital to helping with herd health took a job opportunity in the dairy industry. A few months later, the farm experienced another big change when her father experienced some health challenges. This left Buschor alone juggling multiple responsibilities. Six months pregnant with her third child, along with raising a 4- and 2-year-old, Buschor quickly learned to rely heavily on the technological advancements her farm put in place during the years prior.

This natural caretaker and problem solver says if the technology weren’t already in place, she likely would have walked away. Technology such as SenseHub Dairy monitoring system and sort gates work seamlessly with their parlor, making Buschor’s job as herd manager that much easier.

“I would not have been able to physically be at home every day with my newborn if I was not able to help the people who were working on the farm every day by managing remotely,” Buschor explains. “I would not have been able to work remotely, if it wasn’t for this state-of-the-art [SenseHub] technology already in place.”

(Merck Animal Health)

Because of the circumstances, Buschor had to learn and lean on the technology, and, over time, relied on it as her No. 1 assistant.

These innovations have become indispensable assets, providing this young farmer with much needed flexibility.

“For me, it just has created so much flexibility with my schedule,” she says.

Buschor’s three sons each play three different sports, which means they deal with nine sports schedules. On-farm technology gives her peace of mind to push stop at the dairy and attend one of her kids’ sporting events or get one boy from school to practice.

Technology also lets her quickly change course because of incoming weather, for example. Most of their cow touches are automatically sorted through their sort gate.

“Say we are scheduled to give shots on Tuesday morning when it’s supposed to be -30. Well, with the help of a few clicks of a button, we can easily complete this task a few days later without disrupting the barn,” she shares.

Hands-On Care and Holistic Approaches
Buschor’s intrinsic passion for problem-solving and caring for others is evident in her approach to cattle care. She combines technological insights with intuitive understanding of animal health, ensuring each cow’s needs are met.

“If employees in the parlor see a cow that has mastitis, for instance, they can actually sort her from the parlor with a long hold of the button,” she says, noting along with WhatsApp, the team in the barns are notified and they can address her quickly. “They just take a picture of the cow number, and I know she will be back in the barn waiting for me.”

With all the hustle and bustle on the farm, sort-gate technology is a luxury Buschor could not imagine life without.

“We bred 40 cows and gave 50 shots this morning and all the cows were sorted off by the sort-gate after milking,” she shares. Cows that are sorted off go into pens with bedding, water and feed and just hang out until she — or one of her assistants — are ready for them.

Farm consultants always comment on what a nice, quiet barn she has, which Buschor says is because of the sort-gates.

“We don’t have to go and disturb the whole pen to address just one cow,” she says.

“It’s all very cool and manageable technology for our team to use.”

Prioritizing Well-Being and Work-Life Balance
Buschor’s father passed away in 2021 and she smiles when she reflects on his progressive mindset — willing to try new things while keeping his eye toward the future. After his stroke in 2016, he allowed her to take on more responsibilities and ever since, she has jumped in with both feet, hands-on with the cows while also working with her mom to handle the HR responsibilities, regulations and inspections of the farm.

“I have two assistants who help me with the cow work, and I’m trying to let them take on the lead and be back-up support so they can learn more,” she shares.

Buschor’s philosophy extends beyond technology; she values the well-being of everyone involved in the farm. She advocates for balance, ensuring her family and staff prioritize personal time over farm obligations and says that she doesn’t want the farm to be an excuse why somebody doesn’t take time off. By fostering an environment that encourages rest and rejuvenation, she sets a precedent for mental and physical well-being in the farming community.

“I don’t care if it’s my mom, I don’t care if it’s me, I don’t care if it’s my cousin. I don’t want them to use the farm as an excuse to not get away and take care of themselves because this farm has so many good workers, and good technology to get the job done,” she says.

Embracing Change and Looking Forward
Buschor’s journey represents the dynamic world of modern agriculture, blending innovation with tradition. Through technology and a deep-seated passion for her work, Buschor ensures her family’s legacy continues to thrive, fostering a harmonious future for both her family and her cows. With a remarkable ability to adapt and evolve, Buschor exemplifies how technology in agriculture can revolutionize daily farm operations, leading to success and satisfaction in both personal and professional spheres.

Your Next Read: Discover How Innovation Transforms at Grotegut Dairy

Discover How Innovation Transforms at Grotegut Dairy

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 14:45:57 GMT

In the heart of Wisconsin’s Dairyland lies Grotegut Dairy Farm, a prime example of how tradition can seamlessly blend with modern technology to create a cutting-edge operation. With deep roots and a commitment to innovation and sustainability, Grotegut Dairy has become synonymous with excellence in dairy production. Housing an impressive herd of 3,500 milking cows, the farm demonstrates how contemporary solutions can be integrated into age-old practices. As a testament to their success, they have been named the 2025 Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year by the International Dairy Foods Association.

The Dawn of Tech
The farm’s journey into the technological age began in an unexpected way. Doug Grotegut, the current owner, fondly recalls how his mother won an Apple computer in the late 1980s. This new gadget not only allowed her to play games but also transitioned the farm’s bookkeeping from a traditional notebook to a decidedly modern desktop. “We teased that she was a ‘gamer,’ but it made her life easier,” Doug shares with a smile, reflecting on how the sooner his mother finished her work, the sooner she could enjoy playing games on the computer.

Navigating Transition and Loss
Since its establishment in 1965, Grotegut Dairy Farm has gone through significant transitions. Doug’s parents laid the foundation and paved the way for future growth and success. However, Doug shared that the last seven years have been particularly transformative and challenging. During this period, he experienced the devastating loss of his brother and both parents. These personal losses have profoundly impacted Doug and the trajectory of the family farm. “We have a strong work ethic,” he shares on what keeps them going. “We go out every day and make sure the cows are taken care of, also take care of the employees that take care of the cows, and everything else falls in line. And we give thanks to the good Lord, too.” Despite the hardships that have unfolded, Grotegut Dairy Farm remains under family management. Today, Doug runs the farm alongside his nephew, Eric, and Eric’s wife, Rosario. Both of Doug’s sons, Kip, 26, and Gavin, 22, are also intricately involved in the day-to-day operations. This Wisconsin dairy farm stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation, blending the comforts of tradition with the promises of technology. Together, this family continues to honor the legacy of those that are no longer with them, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in dairy farming.

State-of-the-Art Dairy Management
After touring North Florida Holsteins in the 90s, the Groteguts were one of the first parlors that had digital readouts and individual cow reports. “That data could help us better manage the cows. It also was the first form of automated heat detection,” Doug says, noting that both his late parents were ahead of their times and leaned into anything that could make their life on the dairy easier. Today, one visit to the Newton, Wis., farm and it is visible to see how they have seamlessly integrated data-driven technologies to ensure optimal efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Key systems include Ever.Ag’s Feed King and Cainthus, which collectively help in streamlining feed management and monitoring animal welfare through advanced imaging technology. By leveraging these tools, the farm optimally balances nutrition and health for their herd. Grotegut Dairy has also adopted the Maternity Warden, a sophisticated tool that assists in managing and monitoring the maternity phase, ensuring each milestone is tracked and attended to with precision. “The newest cameras watch for cows raising their tails,” Doug explains, which indicates calving is beginning to happen. Eric and Rosario work with their team of 50-plus employees to oversee the cameras and understand what the data is telling them. With My Dairy Dashboard, Grotegut Dairy receives unparalleled visibility into the health and productivity of the herd. This platform provides a comprehensive overview, presenting stakeholders with the data necessary to make informed decisions that drive both productivity and sustainability. “Eric and Rosario and the team monitor these reports,” Doug notes, sharing that incorporating these kinds of technologies is all about being more consistent day in and day out at Grotegut Dairy. “Cows like routine,” he says. “As soon as a piece of the puzzle is lost, like if feeds not pushed up at the right time is a loss in milk production.”

Logistics and Partnerships
In 2008, Grotegut Dairy put in a methane anaerobic digester, which decomposes the manure into a gaseous biogas product. “At that time, we were able to sell that electricity back on the grid, which worked well,” Doug shared. In 2010, they expanded their dairy and put in a second digester, which continued to produce electricity for another five years. The Groteguts then had the opportunity to partner with DTE Biomass Energy, which is a Detroit-based energy company, and Rev LNG, LLC, which is a pioneer in the liquid natural gas solutions market. There was a carbon credit offset when the gas produced from the methane digester was used in a methane engine/generator. The digester was taking methane out of the atmosphere, but it still resulted in an emission in the form of exhaust. The new way is even more sustainable. By doing it this way, the gas goes into a pipeline, and for instance, that molecule of gas can go all the way to California to fuel vehicles like a compressed natural gas (CNG) semi-truck. “This method is actually pulling a diesel semi off the road in favor of a CNG semi,” Doug said. “As a result, the offset is worth about ten times as much as a regular carbon offset - depending on the market - because we’re pulling diesel fuel emissions off the road and replacing them with vehicles running renewable energy.” The process works well for Grotegut Dairy, so they’re able to concentrate on their area of expertise, and their partners can work on their area of interest. “It is about sustainability and the environment, too,” Doug adds. “We are trying to do right for the community that we live in.”

Community Commitment
Beyond technology, Grotegut Dairy is dedicated to enriching the dairy industry by actively being a community leader. Their initiatives aim to create more inclusive opportunities and educate future generations about sustainable farming practices. They partner with Wisconsin Discovery Center opening their farm to the public, like when they hosted Breakfast on the Farm in 2022. “It is good to show the community what we do and why,” he says, sharing that the farm is in the process of donating some land to build a new firehouse for the community. “It is all about treating people the way you want to be treated,” he says. “It is important to show respect to your community and those volunteering, like the fire department. The guys are volunteering their time to help the community.” Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin CEO, Chad Vincet, gives credit to Doug and all that Grotegut Dairy has done to connect with their community. “His commitment to transparency is evident through the farm’s partnership with the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center,” he says. “Each year, the farm hosts tours with individuals from across the globe. Doug Grotegut’s dedication to his community and Wisconsin dairy is exemplary.” Indeed, Grotegut Dairy Farm stands out not only for its scale but for its visionary approach to dairy farming. By integrating cutting-edge technology with traditional farming values, they ensure sustainable practices that protect and enhance both the environment and their community—truly embodying a forward-thinking commitment to the future of dairy production.

Your Next Read:
Four Key Insights from the 2024 Farm Journal State of the Dairy Industry Report