World Dairy Expo

New Heart Brings New Life: 13-Year-Old Dairy Exhibitor Returns Stronger After Life-Saving Transplant

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 20:37:23 GMT

At last year’s World Dairy Expo , 12-year-old Lexi Anderson from Cumberland, Wis., looked like any other spirited farm kid — full of energy and spunk. What no one could see was the silent battle inside her heart.

“How long have you been coming to World Dairy Expo?”

“12 years, my whole life,” Anderson said last year.

A Shocking Diagnosis

In December 2023, Anderson collapsed on the basketball court. At first, her mom, Tamala Anderson, thought it might be something simple like dehydration. But a visit to the doctor revealed something much more serious: restrictive cardiomyopathy, a rare and aggressive disease where the heart’s lining hardens and loses its ability to pump.

“The walls of the heart are eventually going to harden and stop pumping. It’s really rare,” Tamala says. “Like, only 2% of the world has it.”

Doctors delivered devastating news — the only chance for survival was a heart transplant. Without one, many children with the condition only live about a year and a half past diagnosis.

Life on Hold

The family was forced to put everything on pause. Sports, showing animals and everyday joys became secondary as they anxiously waited for a new heart. By January 2025, Anderson’s health had declined so much she was admitted into the hospital to move higher up on the transplant list.

“I was nervous, but I wasn’t. I just wanted to get it over with,” she says.

For weeks, the family clung to hope. Then, on January 21, they finally got the call: a donor heart was available.

The Surgery That Saved Her Life

Anderson’s transplant surgery lasted through the night. For Tamala, it was an emotional rollercoaster.

“Honestly, that was a pretty hard experience because you don’t see your daughter. You see tubes and bandages. But at the same time, you know she’s alive because these doctors are amazing,” Tamala says.

Anderson’s fighting spirit showed almost immediately. Just a day after surgery, she was determined to get out of bed and push herself forward.

“Day by day, I got my energy back. And then like a week later, I felt like I could run a mile,” Anderson says.

On Feb. 6 — less than three weeks after surgery — Anderson was able to go home.

“I don’t want to say it, but she’s the little miracle child. She had the determination to get it done,” Tamala says.

A Spunky Return

That determination hasn’t slowed down. A month after leaving the hospital, Anderson was back on the softball field. Today, eight months later, she’s a thriving 13-year-old — full of the sass, spirit and spark her family worried they might lose.

“Honestly, her change in personality and everything is amazing. She acts more like a teenager now. She has the spunk, the spirit, the sassiness. She’s just herself now,” Tamala says.

Even showing during World Dairy Expo this year, it was proof that surgery brought their spunky little girl back to life.

Living With Purpose

For the Andersons, every day with their daughter is a reminder of resilience, love and the gift of life made possible through organ donation.

“To go from this feeling of loss, because you don’t know what’s going to happen, to this extreme joy — because she’s right there. She’s not rejecting. The heart is doing great,” Tamala says.

Anderson’s story is not just one of survival, but of determination — a reminder that even in the hardest moments, miracles can and do happen.

Love For Lexi: A Wisconsin Dairy Farm Kid's Big Battle For a New Heart

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 14:19:11 GMT

Lexi Anderson looks like a typical 12-year-old kid. The sixth grader is full of life and so much spunk.

“How long have you been coming to World Dairy Expo,” I asked.

“12 years,” said Lexi.

Her entire life, she’s been traveling to World dairy Expo with her family to show cows. An annual trip that’s always packed with family fun. But Lexi’s life took a dramatic turn nearly 10 months ago, just two months after she showed during the 2023 World Dairy Expo.

“In December of 2023, she [Lexi] started feeling dizzy on the basketball court. And at first, we weren’t really sure what was going on, whether it was dehydration or what it was,” said Tamala Anderson, who is Lexi’s mom.

Unsure how serious it was, it wasn’t until Lexi blacked out on the court that they knew something wasn’t right.

“They decided to bring me in to the doctor. And then we figured out that I had this heart problem,” Lexi said.

The Diagnosis

It wasn’t just a minor problem. The diagnosis? Restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM).

“It’s a hardening of the heart, the lining of the heart. So, the walls of the heart are eventually going to harden and stop pumping” Tamala explained.

“It’s really rare,” Lexi said. “Only like 2% of the world has it.”

Lexi Anderson

(Tamala Anderson)

Restrictive cardiomyopathy is a less common type of cardiomyopathy. According to the Pediatric Cardiomyopathy Registry, the average age of diagnosis is 5 to 6 years.

Lexi’s diagnosis meant her only cure would be a heart transplant

“When we first got the news, it was extremely hard to get that news,” said Tamala. “To hear that your daughter…. sometimes kids only have a year and a half after they’re diagnosed with this. It’s such a hard thing to hear that your daughter could die,” she said.

A heartbreaking diagnosis that shocked the family, but Tamala says they were sent to specialists at the children’s hospital in Milwaukee and got connected with an amazing team of doctors that immediately planted seeds of hope.

“We’ve got a great team. They don’t even let us look at the negative. They told us that we didn’t need to worry about it. They said they we’re going to find it [a heart] and fix it,” Tamala said.

Her New Normal

At 12 years old, Lexi’s life quickly turned to anything but normal. She has doctor visits at least every six weeks with strict orders to cut out physical activity that could stress her heart.

“I got banned from playing all sports, to stop it from growing,” Lexi said.

Lexi’s favorite sport is softball, a sport she can’t play until she receives her heart transplant.

(Tamala Anderson)

Lexi was extremely active before, playing basketball, riding horses and playing softball, which she says is her favorite sport.

“I really miss playing softball,” said Lexi.

“It’s hard,” said Tamala. “I kind of do have her wrapped up in a bubble as she has strict orders at school. All of her teachers know the strict orders. She’s not allowed to run, and she’s not allowed to do any of that stuff that might affect her. So she’s kind of limited in every aspect.”

Lexi loves all things outdoors, which includes riding horses and going fishing.

(Tamala Anderson)

Helpless in so many ways, Tamela did the only thing she could and that was to protect her little girl, all while waiting on the call that could save her life.

“Her timeline went from living 60 years, 80 years, down to we don’t know what,” said Tamala. “We could get a phone call at any time.”

Waiting on the Life-Saving Call

It’s that phone call that Tamala, Lexi and her entire family are anxiously awaiting.

“Honestly, my bags are packed in the car,” said Tamala. “I’ve got Lexi’s bags packed in the car. We’re waiting, and we’re ready.”

“Are you scared at all or are you nervous at all,” I asked Lexi.

“I’m a little nervous. I don’t know when I’m going to be able to get back home. And I don’t know if they’re going to hold me for the three months recovery, but hopefully they let me go home and just recover at my house.”

Love for Lexi

At 12 years old, Lexi’s courage is contagious and her support is inspiring. She has an army of family and friends who are rooting her on, with a group called “Love for Lexi.”

“A couple of her friends at home decided to do a website, it’s called Love for Lexi, where we have Caring Bridge connected,” said Tamala “Some of it’s to raise money. Some of it’s just to let people know how she’s doing.”

Whether it’s at the County Fair or World Dairy Expo, you’ll find Lexi shining in the show ring.

(Tamala Anderson)

That love was put on center stage this summer, when Lexi’s friends Hattie and Holly Hargrave gave the ultimate gift of generosity with a lamb for Lexi.

“We went to a county fair, and I was showing sheep, and I didn’t make the sale, and one of my friends did and that raised over $27,000 and she gave it to me for the benefit,” said Lexi.

“It was amazing,” Tama said. “It was absolutely amazing. Honestly, the first buyer, when the first buyer bought the lamb, I was in tears . Then, he’s like, ‘Nope, I want to sell it again.’ And he so he gave it back and they sold it again. And I mean, it sold four times.

That sale raised $27,000 from four business who all came together to show Lexi love and support.

“We live in a really, really great community,” Tamala said.

“I feel really, really loved,” said Lexi.

Lexi looks happy and normal, but as her heart works in overdrive, the reality is Lexi’s body is tired and worn down.

“Some days it takes her breath away just to walk across the parking lot. Some days she is jumping around saying, ‘I’m ready to go,’” Tamala said.

Success at World Dairy Expo

This week during the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisc, Lexi was determined to go in the ring, and she brought home hardware, as well as memories she won’t forget. One of the best memories was when her cousin won Junior Champion of the World Dairy Expo Junior Show.

“I was super happy, because it’s like a victory for the farm,” said Lexi. “We just cheered each other on and we started supporting each other and stuff.”

That’s who Lexi is; a spirited kid who’s always supporting those around her.

“She’s a great kid, honestly,” said Tamala. “She’s got such a big heart. If she sees someone down or if she sees someone even getting bullied, she’s more of a protector. So she’s just a great kid.”

Lexi’s big heart is now what’s needing saved, but it’s a constant showing of love and support that’s getting this family through.

Leading With Kindness and Courage, Annette Ostrom's Dairy Legacy Will Now Live On at World Dairy Expo

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 19:35:53 GMT

Over the next decade the Ostrom family will dedicate more than $120,000 to World Dairy Expo’s Youth Showmanship Contest classes to honor the late Annette Ostrom.

Annette, 49, of De Pere, Wisconsin, passed away on October 19, 2022, following a courageous battle with cancer, shortly after she completed one of her final wishes. She was determined to be ringside at WDE in 2022 to watch her son Tristen show, to see her industry friends, and to champion her family’s Milk Source Genetics’ show campaign.

Annette was a beloved figure at every level. There wasn’t a part of the industry she didn’t touch or influence in all the best ways.

The tangible legacy of this quiet overachiever is that everyone can affect change…simply by taking the first step with the right people.

Her husband, Jim Ostrom, of Milk Source Genetics, says it is time to pause and to celebrate one of Annette’s enduring passions – young people.

This year’s cash prizes will peak at $3500 for the Supreme Champion Showmanship award. Jim says the decision is a deliberate nod to the significance of encouraging youth, the foundation the movement lays for life, and acknowledging Annette’s commitment to both.

“The most important thing about showmanship and youth programs is that it brings our future leaders back to our industry,” he says. “It might be the most important thing we do in a given year – to give young people the chance to fall in love with this industry that we all love.”

“Anything we can do to build some excitement around youth and youth programs is worthy.”

Giving Back

Outside of Milk Source Genetics juggernaut commercial operation and compelling show herd, Annette was a long-time business manager for Zoetis, and a co-founder of “Dairy Cares of Wisconsin”, a non-profit organization that raised $2.3 million within 12 years for Children’s Wisconsin (formerly Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin).

It included “The Dairy Cares of Wisconsin Simulation Lab”, named after its benefactor. The lab uses computerized patients so the hospital can replay traumas for training purposes. In 2017, Annette and Jim were acknowledged with a “Wisconsin Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award” on behalf of Dairy Cares during National Philanthropy Day.

Dairy Cares of Wisconsin started with a simple garden party of 35 people who collectively had momentous aspirations to give back.

Today, that event welcomes more than 500 people to the Ostrom’s family home each year.

Flawless on the Halter

Annette was an exceptional cowwoman in her own right. Few will forget the iconic images of her gliding out of the darkness in 2016 and into the spotlight in unison with Milk Source’s five-year-old Jersey Grand Champion, Musqie Iatola Martha-ET. Martha would go on to win WDE Supreme Champion.

Annette’s close friend and Milk Source’s young stock manager Mandi Bue – a force in the ring herself – remembers Annette’s connection with Martha like it was yesterday.

“I remember asking Annette if she got nervous when she was headed into the ring with a cow that carried a lot of prestige like Martha,” Mandi said. “She would smile so lovingly at Martha and say that ‘Martha led her’. They were like watching a perfectly choreographed dance, they paraded so elegantly and flawlessly together. I believe it’s because she respected and adored any and every animal, so the second she took the show halter she put that animal at ease.

“Her personality was so graceful and calm – never arrogant – and it allowed any animal to show itself because they completely trusted her.”

Annette and Mandi initiated the five-woman cattle syndicate, La Femme Fatale, which notably owned half of the 2019 Intermediate WDE Holstein Champion, Floydholm Mc Emoji-ET. That buy happened because of Annette’s faith in Mandi’s eye for a potential great one.

The Power of True Friendship

Mandi says outside of the ring, her lasting memories of Annette circle around the power of true friendship.

“She would remind me that as much as we love the cows, it is the genuine and sincere friendships we make along the way that withstand the test of time. Those friendships are what carry us through the tough times, and they are what make the good times sweeter.”

Sara Harbaugh, a Territory Business Manager at Zoetis, also describes Annette as a steady constant in her life.

“She was so much more than a co-worker. She was an amazing friend,” Sara said. “Our lives overlapped through work, kids, and showing and she could always make me smile even when life was crazy.

“It seemed like she never had a bad day, and her continuous optimism through the most difficult times will always inspire me. I think of her often and try to use her example as a guide.

“The world needs more people like Annette, and this program is a perfect way to honor her.”

Everyone Starts Somewhere

Annette’s love of the dairy industry was ignited by her parents, Gladys, and the late Hans Palm. And, when she decided she needed better heifers to be more competitive in 4-H competitions, Hans approached Sherry Siemers-Peterman, of Siemers Holsteins.

Sherry remembers that Annette was a stand-out young person, and she was happy to allow her the pick of the “better heifers at their farm.”

“Annette was quite a human,” Sherry said. “She gained a lot of confidence in herself throughout her 4-H career. Showmanship sets you up for life and it carries many lessons, including presenting your animals, presenting yourself, and learning how to be a gracious winner…and a gracious loser. Annette could do anything she set her mind to.”

At The Heart of it All

Behind all the obvious accolades and achievements, Annette was a woman, a daughter, a wife, a mother, a sibling, a friend, and a colleague who continues to be sorely missed every day. To preserve her memory in perpetuity within the industry is important for her family.

Jim said, “She could tell you the pedigree of a 10-year-old kid running around the show barn at a show more than she could tell you the pedigree of a famous cow. She knew their ages, what animals they showed, and where they placed.

“I might know a young kid who’s 10, but the next time I see them they are a foot-and-a-half taller and they are looking like a young adult, but Annette always instantly knew who they were…because she truly knew that person.

“That is the essence of why we are doing this. Before Annette was diagnosed, she would never have allowed me to name something after her. I did tell her I was going to, and as time wore on, she did come to accept it, because she cared so much for the young people.

“So, while we have signed up for 10 years, I do see this as a permanent thing. We want to make it meaningful, and we’ve deliberately put forward some sizeable prizes.”

Call for Entries

Sisters Nicole Pralle and Jessica Pralle-Trimmer serve as superintendents of the World Dairy Expo Youth Showmanship Contest. Open to all youth, ages 9 to 21, more than 460 youth competed in three age divisions in the 2022 contest.

Participants in 2023 and in future contests will vie for the cash awards listed below. The Supreme Champion will also receive a crystal trophy. Replicas of the Annette Ostrom Memorial Supreme Showmanship Award will also be displayed by the Ostrom family and at World Dairy Expo’s headquarters. Visit the Contests tab on www.worlddairyexpo.com for contest rules and to enter online. Entries will be accepted starting July 1, 2023.

Word Dairy Expo 2023 Showmanship Awards

Champion Junior Showmanship (cash award) – $1500
Reserve Champion Junior Showmanship (cash award) – $750
Champion Intermediate Showmanship (cash award) – 1500
Reserve Champion Intermediate Showmanship (cash award) – $750
Champion Senior Showmanship (cash award) – 1500
Reserve Champion Senior Showmanship (cash award) – $750
Supreme Champion Showmanship (cash award) – $3500
Reserve Supreme Champion Showmanship (cash award) – $1500

For more World Dairy Expo coverage, click here.

GEA Brings Efficient Robotic Solutions to Large-scale Dairies with DairyProQ

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 01:17:21 GMT

DairyProQ, a fully automated robotic rotary milking parlor, is now available to the North American market. DairyProQ revolutionizes the way large-scale dairies can capture efficiencies in robotic milking by reaching high throughput goals with significantly less labor.

“DairyProQ brings commercial dairies the efficiency of rotary parlors combined with the consistency of robotic udder prep and milking,” says Matt Daley, head of GEA’s milking and dairy farming sales in North America. “We are pleased to bring this opportunity to producers in the U.S. and Canada to improve labor efficiency, strengthen dairy profitability and produce high-quality milk on a more consistent basis than ever before.”

Each stall unit on the DairyProQ rotary has its own robotic module, and is designed to automate the entire milking process. Teat cup attachment, teat prep (including pre-dipping), fore-stripping, stimulation, milking and post-dipping are done within the liner, in one single attachment. The unit is automatically removed and backflushed between milkings to sanitize the cluster between cows.

Special needs cows or those needing individual attention, can be milked on a semi-automated (manual) basis as needed.

“Cow comfort comes first in all GEA parlor systems because cow comfort is the foundation of a healthy, productive dairy,” Daley says. “DairyProQ is of course no exception. It’s built with a smooth cow-friendly design that makes it easy for cows to enter and exit stalls. Additionally, the ‘plug and play’ robotic modules have been designed so one can be removed for service and replaced with no interruption to operation. Your cows and your milking schedule stay right on track.”

See the DairyProQ robotic rotary parlor up close with live demonstrations of this innovative technology at World Dairy Expo, Sept. 29-Oct. 3 in Madison, Wis. in Exhibition Hall booths 2001-2307.

For more information, contact GEA at 1-877-WS-DAIRY (1-877-973-2479).

Source: GEA

Research Results Paint a Picture of Robotic Milking on Midwest Dairies

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 01:09:58 GMT

The University of Minnesota has compiled important facts and figures that document the management styles, cow behavior and impact of robotic milking systems.

It’s taken nearly two years, but University of Minnesota professor and Extension Dairy Specialist Marcia Endres and her team have compiled important facts and figures that document the impact of robotic milking systems (RMS) on U.S. dairies.

Endres and University of Minnesota colleague Jim Salfer have been conducting a study with 52 RMS farms in Minnesota and Wisconsin, where RMS systems are becoming more common. The researchers have collected on-farm housing and management information as well as daily data from the RMS computers for every cow.

“Along with describing what is happening on the farms, these data allow us to investigate factors associated with productive parameters and make some inferences about cow preferences and behavior,” said Endres during an Educational Seminar held Oct. 2 at World Dairy Expo.

Here is a summary of their findings:

• The dairies in the study average 2.6 RMS per farm and 1.4 robots per pen.

• The average number of freestalls per pen is 78.

• Fifty-eight percent of the barns were new, and 42% were retrofitted RMS units in existing barns.

• Forty-seven percent of the farms had automatic alley scrapers, 21% had slatted floors, 6% had bedded packs, and 26% scraped alleys manually.

• Seventy-five percent of the farms had exclusively free-flow cow traffic, 23% had exclusively guided-flow traffic, and 2% had both a free-flow and guided-flow cow traffic system in separate barns.

• Eighty-five percent of the farms had mechanical rotating cow brushes.

• Twenty-one percent of the farms had robotic feed pushers that pushed up the ration on a pre-determined schedule.

• Among the farms, 41.5% had mattresses, 26% sand, 13% waterbeds, 9.5% mattress and pasture, and 6% bedded pack.

• Average feed-bunk space was 20" per cow (out of a range of 10.2" to 42").

• The amount of concentrate fed in the RMS unit was 2 lb. to 25 lb. per day, depending on stage of lactation and type of system (free-flow systems average 2 lb. to 25 lb., guided-flow units average 2 lb. to 18 lb.).

• The Partial Mixed Ration (PMR) in the guided-flow systems was higher in energy and lower in NDF than in free-flow systems.

• In free-flow herds, the PMR was balanced for milk production levels of 10-30 lb. less than the herd’s average production.

• In guided-flow herds, the PMR was balanced for 9-20 lb. less than the average milk output.

• The researchers’ observations indicate that the “milk first” guided system is superior to the “feed first” free-flow system.

• There were herds with greater than 90 lb. per cow per day average with both free-flow and guided-flow systems.

You can reach Endres at miendres@umn.edu .

Seven Rules of Equity Recovery

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 07:24:19 GMT

There are seven rules of financial management that make or break a dairy farm, says Gary Sipiorski, a financial management consultant working with VitaPlus Corporation .

“Over time, you can break one or two of these rules, and you’ll probably survive,” he told Dairy Today this week here at World Dairy Expo. “Break more than three and your operation probably won’t be functioning.” The rules:

Two:one liquidity. Current assets (cash, feed on hand) should be twice as large as current liabilities (accounts payables, 12 months of principal payments).
Twenty percent or less of milk check being consumed by loan principal and interest.
Eighty-five percent expense ratio or less which is the ratio of expenses versus net sales.
$3,000 to $5,000 debt/cow. Once debt per cow exceeds $5,000, interest and principal payments make it extremely difficult to meet other expense and income needs.
At least 30% equity. At lower levels, it makes it virtually impossible to borrow any money to bridge even short-term cash flow needs. Some lenders are now requiring up to 50% equity when lending for large pieces of equipment or facilities.
Three-year asset turnover rate. If you have $1 million in assets, you should be generating at least $330,000 per year in gross returns. Any longer turnover suggests your assets simply aren’t generating returns quickly enough to sustain the business.
Eight percent return on assets. Again, assets need to be providing a return to generate enough dollars to operate the business and provide adequate returns.

The simplest way to achieve these benchmarks is to generate as much gross income as possible while minimizing expenses. “Cows don’t understand the checkbook,” says Sipiorski. “But they do understand cow comfort, being well fed and being bred back on time. If you do those three things, along with controlling expenses, you’ll go a long way in achieving these benchmarks.”

The worst thing to do is to borrow money on low-return assets. Sipiorski says he recently met with a farm couple who thought they needed to buy a new combine. “But a $300,000 combine, used just a few weeks a year, usually isn’t a good investment in times like these. The couple would be better off using that money to invest in cows and generate more income,” he says.

Corn Silage Outperforms Alfalfa in Dairy Rations – For Now

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 07:24:01 GMT

Corn silage is outperforming alfalfa in dairy rations in a number of comparisons, Dr Mike Hutjens, Extension dairy specialist with the University of Illinois Extension, said Thursday at World Dairy Expo.

Corn silage surpasses alfalfa in six of 10 comparisons, including:

dry matter per acre
harvesting a consistent forage
carbohydrate aspects
harvesting factors
ration costs
fermentation profiles

Speaking at a Dairy Forage Tool Box seminar, Hutjens said alfalfa outshines corn silage:

As a physically effective fiber
In its buffering capacity
In its proteins aspects
In density of silage

“To be more competitive with corn, alfalfa breeders must put more emphasis on nutrient plans,” said Hutjens. “They must stack herbicide traits to reduce weed and grass pressure. They must also stack pesticide traits to reduce spraying and delayed harvest and improve quality.”

Alfalfa breeders must also shift the crop’s protein profile, he said. Alfalfa needs more fermentable rumen carbohydrates. More work is needed for alfalfa to reach its yield potential and to reduce the number of harvesting trips.

“We’re working on all those,” said Dr. Neil Martin, a forage expert with the US Dairy Forage Research Center. “By 2014 or 2015, we’ll see a different kind of alfalfa.”

Vita Plus Launches 'Thank a Farmer' Campaign

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 07:23:58 GMT

Source: Vita Plus

Eat food. Be healthy. Thank a farmer!

In an effort to celebrate farmers and the wholesome, nutritious foods they produce, Vita Plus is rolling out its “Thank a farmer!” campaign with the introduction of a new semitrailer at World Dairy Expo.

It is the first in a handful of trailers that will feature six family and team photos from farms across the Midwest. The trailers will travel throughout the Vita Plus market area, logging more than 70,000 miles in a year and promoting the message of “Eat food. Be healthy. Thank a farmer!”

“We have such an opportunity right now to engage with consumers who are interested in how their food is produced,” said Marjorie Stieve, Vita Plus marketing services manager. “This is something positive that Vita Plus can do. These trailers will help consumers and their families make a connection with a few of today’s farmers.”

Stieve continued, “We’re proud of the care and stewardship our customers provide for their livestock and land. The ‘Thank a farmer!’ campaign is a great opportunity for our company to share the message of what these producers focus on every day on their farming operations.”

The first of the “Thank a farmer!” semitrailers will be on grounds throughout the entire World Dairy Expo Sept. 28 to Oct. 2 in Madison, Wis. Video introductions of the farms will be shared daily on the Vita Plus Facebook and Twitter pages as well as other outreach and education materials. To meet the farmers, search for Vita Plus Corporation on Facebook or follow @VitaPlusCorp and @NDefenseofFarms on Twitter.

Vita Plus Corporation is an employee-owned company headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin. Vita Plus has been serving livestock producers since 1948. More than just a feed supplier, Vita Plus consultants offer the latest cutting-edge technology, nutrition and management information. For more information about the organization call 1-800-362-8334 or go online at www.vitaplus.com .

2015 World Forage Analysis Superbowl Winners Announced

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 21:28:21 GMT

Felling Dairy, Sauk Centre, Minn., took Grand Champion honors and was awarded a $2,500 check for its BMR corn silage entry in the World Forage Analysis Superbowl. The cash award was presented by Kemin, and was one of many recognizing top-quality forage entries in the annual contest.

More than $22,000 in cash prizes were awarded to top-finishing producers participating in this year’s contest. Producers submitted 385 entries in seven forage categories, representing 24 states and provinces. The winners were announced Sept. 30 at the World Forage Analysis Superbowl Awards Luncheon, sponsored by Mycogen Seeds, at World Dairy Expo.

The Grand Champion First-Time Entrant cash award of $1,500 went to Mar Bec Dairy, Mondovi, Wis. The prize money was made possible by Kuhn North America.

Champions of the seven forage categories, and their sponsors, include:

Each category’s top finisher received $1,500. Second-place winners received $500; third-place, $250; and fourth-place winners, $100 each.

In addition, two Quality Counts Awards were awarded for quality forage production; however, the criteria for selection are unknown to contestants at the time of entry. This year’s Hay/Haylage and Corn Silage winners were selected based on uNDF, undigestible neutral detergent fiber. CROPLAN By Winfield presented each winner with $1,000. The top entry for the Quality Counts Corn Silage was Mar Bec Dairy, Mondovi, Wis. In the Quality Counts Hay/Haylage category, Berney Ranch Inc., Okanogan, Wash., topped the category.

Growers from across the U.S. and Canada were invited to send their best samples in either dairy or commercial divisions. Dairy samples are judged on lab analysis (60%), visual judging (30%), and calculated milk per ton (10%). Commercial entries are judged on lab analysis (70%) and visual judging (30%). Visual judging consists of analysis of the color, texture, maturity and leafiness, depending on the category. Dairyland Laboratories, located in DePere, Wis., tested the samples.

Sponsors of the 2015 World Forage Analysis Superbowl include category sponsors Ag-Bag, Agri-King, Barenbrug USA, Agrisure Traits, CROPLAN By WinField, Kemin, Kuhn North America, Mycogen Seeds, NEXGROW alfalfa and W-L Research. Additional support is provided by the National Hay Association as the Silver Sponsor.

Organizing partners for this year’s contest include DairyBusiness Communications; Dairyland Laboratories, Inc.; Hay & Forage Grower; U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center; University of Wisconsin-Madison; and World Dairy Expo.

The top five placings from each category are:

Grand Champion Baleage - Sponsored by Agri-King:

1st Place – Pounder Brothers, Inc., Delevan, Wis.
2nd Place – Olson Farms, Lena, Wis.
3rd Place – Mackinnon Farms, Thorntown, Wis.
4th Place – Royal Elm Dairy, Spencer, Wis.
5th Place –Katherine Guither, Walnut, Ill.

Grand Champion Commercial Hay - Sponsored by NEXGROW Alfalfa:

1st Place – Fegler Farms, Arapahoe, Wyo.
2nd Place – Berney Ranch, Inc., Okanogan, Wash.
3rd Place – Greer Ranch, Hyattville, Wyo.
4th Place – Lazy 2K Farm, Wheatland, Wyo.
5th Place –Kamps Alfalfa Farm, Darlington, Wis.

Grand Champion Dairy Hay - Sponsored by W-L Research:

1st Place – S & B Dairy, Sigel, Ill.
2nd Place – Frozene Farm, Westfield, Wis.
3rd Place – Olson Farms, Lena, Wis.
4th Place – Mountainside Farm, Taylorsville, NC
5th Place –Austin Haywood, Hastings, MI

Grand Champion Grass Hay - Sponsored by Barenbrug USA:

1st Place – Angel Rose Dairy, Bainbridge, N.Y.
2nd Place – Donald Hasselquist, Osceola, Wis.
3rd Place – Indianhead Holsteins, Barron, Wis.
4th Place – Church Farms, Grand Marsh, Wis.
5th Place –Dawn Mar Farm, Pitman, Pa.

Grand Champion Haylage - Sponsored by Ag-Bag:

1st Place – Verhasselt Dairy, Kaukauna, Wis.
2nd Place – Co-Vista Holsteins LLC, Arcade, N.Y.
3rd Place – Woldt Farms, Brillion, Wis.
4th Place – Albert Martin, Colby, Wis.
5th Place –Peterson Dairy LLC, Lena, Wis.

Grand Champion Standard Corn Silage - Sponsored by Agrisure Traits:

1st Place – Olson Farms, Lena, Wis.
2nd Place – Valley View Dairy, Richland Center, Wis.
3rd Place – Jason Baughman, Glencoe, Pa.
4th Place – Millview Farm, Pilesgrove, N.J.
5th Place – Peterson Dairy LLC, Lena, Wis.

Grand Champion BMR Corn Silage - Mycogen Seeds:

1st Place – Dwi-Bet Farms, Addison, N.Y.
2nd Place – Tayl-Wind Farm, Cassville, N.Y.
3rd Place – Luckwaldt Ag LLC, Woodville, Wis.
4th Place – BGR Dairy, Lake Park, Minn.
5th Place – Emerling Dairy, Perry, N.Y.

Source: World Dairy Expo

Grazing Events Planned for World Dairy Expo

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 21:22:16 GMT

Source: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection

The third annual Grazing Seminars at World Dairy Expo will be on Friday, October 7, 2011. The all-day seminar series; organized by DATCP, UW Extension, and industry partners; will feature a range of topics and be followed by a free reception.

“This annual event brings in speakers from across the country to share information and new ideas for dairy farmers,” said Laura Paine, DATCP’s Grazing Specialist. “The free educational seminars offer basic information for the beginning farmer and new methods and techniques for those involved in the industry for years.”
The agenda for the grazing events includes:

• 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Training the Next Generation of Dairy Farmers. Joe Tomandl III will talk about Wisconsin’s first-in-the-nation Dairy Apprentice Program that helps beginning farmers get off to a good start with classroom education and a formal on-farm apprenticeship.

• 11:15a.m.-12:15 p.m. Outwintering versus Winter Housing – What are the Tradeoffs? How much winter housing do you need? Dr. Rhonda Gildersleeve, UW Extension Grazing Specialist, will explore the tradeoffs between housing, seasonal milking, feed costs, and milk production.

• 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. Cross-country Tour de Research: A Roundtable Discussion of Grazing Research at U.S. Universities. Here’s your opportunity to hear what grazing and organic systems research is being done and to provide input and suggestions for future research topics.

• 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Is Grass-fed the Wave of the Future? Market Forecast for Organic and Grass-based Dairy. George Siemon, Organic Valley, and Chad Pawlak, Grass Point Farms, will discuss the role of value-added markets for dairy products and offer a market analysis and forecast.

• 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Free Reception.Opportunity to meet with speakers and sponsors for refreshments and conversation.

Seminars will be held in the Mendota 3 Conference Room in the Exhibition Hall of the World Dairy Expo. The afternoon reception will be held in the Grazing and Organic Pavilion. Industry partners assisting DATCP and UW Extension with planning and sponsorship for the day’s events include: CRV, LIC, Coburn, Geno, Normande, Fleckveih, Crystal Creek, and Organic Valley.
“Each seminar will allow time for participants to ask questions and engage in discussion,” said Rhonda Gildersleeve, UW Extension’s Grazing Specialist. “The reception is also a great opportunity for farmers to talk with seminar speakers and share ideas to be more successful and profitable in the future.”
To find general information on World Dairy Expo, visit www.world-dairy-expo.com . For more information about the grazing seminars, contact DATCP’s Laura Paine at 608-224-5120 or laura.paine@wi.gov or visit http://datcp.wi.gov/Farms/Grazing/Grazing_Events/ .

Entry Deadline Approaches for World Forage Superbowl

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 21:22:05 GMT

The deadline for the world’s longest-running forage contest featuring the biggest cash payout is around the corner. Only a few days remain to enter the World Forage Analysis Superbowl contest for a chance at over $22,000 in cash prizes.

Silage entries for standard and brown midrib corn silage categories must be received by AgSource Laboratories by August 18. All other forage samples, including dairy hay, haylage, commercial baleage, commercial hay, and the new grass hay category, must be submitted by September 7.

Last year, more than 320 samples were submitted from 25 states. Visit www.foragesuperbowl.org for rules, entry form and further details of the contest.

Finalists will be notified in September and invited to attend the Mycogen Seeds Awards Luncheon at World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wis. on Wednesday, October 5. All winning entries will be on display in the Arena Building at Expo for attendees to view.

Cash awards are made possible by the contest’s sponsors and include Ag-Bag, Barenbrug USA, Bridon Cordage, Croplan Genetics, Kent Nutrition Group, Kuhn North America, Mycogen Seeds, National Hay Association, NutriSave, Syngenta and W-L Research.

The 28^th Annual World Forage Analysis Superbowl is organized in partnership with AgSource Cooperative Services, AgSource Laboratories, DairyBusiness Communications, Hay & Forage Grower, U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison and World Dairy Expo.

“Around the World of Dairy in 5 Days” is the theme of World Dairy Expo 2011 which will take place Tuesday, October 4 through Saturday, October 8 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wisconsin. For show schedule and details, visit www.worlddairyexpo.com .

World Forage Analysis Superbowl to Award $22,000 Cash

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 21:21:45 GMT

The World Forage Analysis Superbowl is seeking entries for the 2011 contest. Big cash prizes are available! The deadline for corn silage entries is August 18, 2011, and all other entries are due September 7, 2011.

Over $22,000 cash is being awarded this year with each category champion receiving a check for $1,500. Additional cash will be awarded for additional winners in each category. This valuable prize package is made possible by generous supporters, including Platinum Sponsor Mycogen Seeds.

“Every year we’re amazed at the high quality of the forages entered into the contest,” says Dan Undersander, Extension forage specialist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. “The contest is designed to encourage quality forage production. We encourage you to enter or, at least, to stop by the exhibit in the Arena building at World Dairy Expo. Where else can you see so much high quality forage in one place?”

Contest categories include: Champion Grass Hay, sponsored by Barenbrug USA; Champion Dairy Hay, sponsored by Syngenta; Champion Dairy Haylage, sponsored by Kent Nutrition Group; Champion Commercial Baleage, sponsored by W-L Research; Champion Commercial Hay, sponsored by Bridon Cordage; Champion Standard Corn Silage, sponsored by Ag-Bag; and Champion Brown Midrib Corn Silage, sponsored by Mycogen Seeds.

All category winners will compete for the coveted Grand Champion Forage Producer honor and the $2,500 cash award, sponsored by NutriSave Forage Management System. In addition to the above categories, winners of the Quality Counts Hay/Haylage and Quality Counts Corn Silage categories will be named and each will be awarded a $1,000 cash prize, sponsored by Croplan Genetics. The Quality Counts category will be based on a predetermined quality factor, which will not be announced until World Dairy Expo.

Corn silage entrants are encouraged to select a corn silage sample now and simply store it in a 2-gallon air tight container in the freezer until August 18, 2011 when the entries are due. All corn silage entries must be from the 2010 growing season.

All other samples must be received at AgSource Laboratories in Bonduel, Wis. before September 7, 2011. Your $25 entry fee provides entry into the contest and the opportunity to win cash prizes, along with a detailed laboratory analysis of the sample. Participants may enter as often and in as many categories as desired; however, the Commercial Hay category is intended for hay growers who raise and sell hay for a living.

For entry forms and information, call 715-758-2178 or visit www.foragesuperbowl.org . The World Forage Analysis Superbowl is held annually in conjunction with World Dairy Expo, October 4-8, 2011 in Madison, Wis. The winners will be named at the Mycogen Seeds Awards Luncheon at Expo, held this year on October 5.

The 28th Annual World Forage Analysis Superbowl is organized in partnership with AgSource Cooperative Services, AgSource Laboratories, DairyBusiness Communications, Hay & Forage Grower, U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison and World Dairy Expo. Additional sponsorship is provided by the National Hay Association. To learn more, visit www.foragesuperbowl.org .

World Forage Analysis Superbowl to Award $22,000 Cash

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 21:21:26 GMT

World Forage Analysis Superbowl to Award $22,000 Cash

Source: World Dairy Expo

Again this year, entries in the World Forage Analysis Superbowl can win big with more than $22,000 in cash prizes being awarded. This valuable prize package is made possible by generous supporters, including Platinum Sponsor Mycogen Seeds.

Seven category champions will each receive a check for $1,500. Additional cash prizes will be presented to runners-up in each category.

Champion Grass Hay, sponsored by Barenbrug USA
Champion Dairy Hay, sponsored by Syngenta
Champion Dairy Haylage, sponsored by Kent Nutrition Group
Champion Commercial Baleage, sponsored by W-L Research
Champion Commercial Hay, sponsored by Bridon Cordage
Champion Standard Corn Silage, sponsored by Ag-Bag
Champion Brown Mid-Rib Corn Silage, sponsored by Mycogen Seeds

All category winners will compete for the coveted Grand Champion Forage Producer honor and the $2,500 cash award, sponsored by Kemin Industries. In addition to the above categories, winners of the Quality Counts Hay/Haylage and Quality Counts Corn Silage categories will be named and each will be awarded a $1,000 cash prize, sponsored by Croplan Genetics. The Quality Counts category will be based on a predetermined quality factor, which will not be announced until World Dairy Expo.

The World Forage Analysis Superbowl is held annually in conjunction with World Dairy Expo, October 4-8, 2011 in Madison, Wis. The winners are named at the Mycogen Seeds Awards Luncheon at Expo, held this year on October 5.

For entry forms and information on the World Forage Analysis Superbowl, call 715-758-2178 or visit www.foragesuperbowl.org . The deadline for corn silage entries is August 18, 2011, and all other entries are due September 7, 2011. Your $25 entry fee provides entry into the contest and the opportunity to win cash prizes, along with a detailed laboratory analysis of the sample.

The 28th Annual World Forage Analysis Superbowl is organized in partnership with AgSource Cooperative Services, AgSource Laboratories, DairyBusiness Communications, Hay & Forage Grower, U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center, University of Wisconsin and World Dairy Expo. Additional sponsorship is provided by the National Hay Association. To learn more, visit www.foragesuperbowl.org .

Forage Superbowl Adds Grass Hay Category

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 21:21:11 GMT

Source: World Dairy Expo

New for 2011, the World Forage Analysis Superbowl will feature a Grass Hay category. This new category is in addition to the contest’s six standard categories of Commercial Hay, Dairy Hay, Haylage, Baleage, Standard Corn Silage and Brown Mid-Rib (BMR) Corn Silage, along with the Quality Counts Awards for hay/haylage and corn silage.

“The committee is excited to add an additional category to this growing contest,” said Steve Peterson, Vice President of the Soil & Forage Division at AgSource Cooperative Services and longtime Superbowl committee member. “This new category recognizes the growth and importance of grass-based forages.”

“In last year’s contest, 279 entries from 25 states went home with over $20,000 in cash prizes. We’re seeing more dairy producers and forage growers competing each year, and we hope the Grass Hay category will allow for even more to get involved,” said Peterson.

The World Forage Analysis Superbowl is held annually in conjunction with World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wis. each October. Category winners and the Grand Champion Forage Grower are named at a special luncheon at Expo.

For more information on the World Forage Analysis Superbowl, visit www.foragesuperbowl.org or call 715-758-2178. Cash prize details, entry forms and contest rules will be available in March. The deadline for corn silage entries for this year’s contest is August 18, and all other entries are due September 7, 2011. Your $25 entry fee provides entry into the contest and the opportunity to win cash prizes, along with a detailed laboratory analysis of the sample.

The 28th Annual World Forage Analysis Superbowl is organized in partnership with AgSource Cooperative Services, AgSource Laboratories, DairyBusiness Communications, Hay & Forage Grower, U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center, University of Wisconsin and World Dairy Expo.

World Dairy Expo Provides Continuing Education Credits

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 04:10:31 GMT

Source: World Dairy Expo

Dairy producers and industry representatives from around the globe will gather in Madison, Wis., when World Dairy Expo takes place Sept. 28 – Oct. 1.

World Dairy Expo strives to be a leader in education and new technology. This year, continuing education credits for dairy professionals, nutritionists, veterinarians and veterinary technicians can be earned by attending the World Dairy Expo Seminars. Members of American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists (ARPAS) and the American Association of State Veterinary Boards – RACE Program (RACE) can earn one credit for each seminar they attend.

“Veterinarians and dairy professionals will see the latest technology displayed at World Dairy Expo’s trade show and the finest in dairy genetics on parade at the dairy cattle shows held during the week. Now, in addition, they can earn continuing education credits. This is a great added feature for a trip they are already making,” says Liz Matzke, seminar coordinator.

There will be eight seminars held during the week, Tuesday through Saturday, in Mendota 2 meeting room located in the Exhibition Hall. Participants will learn more about: methane digesters, genomic testing, calf diets, new management technologies, feed costs, the global dairy outlook, reproductive tools and mycotoxins. Additionally, all seminars will be available for viewing after World Dairy Expo at www.worlddairyexpo.com .

ABS Global, Advanced Comfort Technology, Alltech, APC, Inc., Badgerland Financial, BASF Plant Science, Jamesway Farm Equipment and Micro Dairy Logic are sponsors of this year’s seminars.