Milk Messenger: March/April 2024

features

MMPA hosts Annual Meeting

MMPA members and guests gathered for MMPA’s 108th Annual Meeting on March 20 to learn about upcoming initiatives, celebrate our award winners, and hear from our partners at GoodSport Nutrition, Dairy Distillery and more.

18 MMPA DAIRY FARMERS TAKE HOME NATIONAL DAIRY QUALITY AWARDS

MMPA members continue to produce some of the best quality milk in the country with nine MMPA members awarded National Dairy Quality Awards. The 2023 winners make up nearly a quarter of total awardees in the national contest.

21 THE STORY OF A MODERN DAY PIONEER: FROM SEVEN TO 700 COWS

In 1999, fueled by a dream to establish a dairy farm according to his vision, Tjerk Okkema relocated his family from the Netherlands to America. Together they have built a healthy herd with milk quality that sets them apart from Michigan Milk Producers Association’s membership, earning them the cooperative’s coveted title of Top Quality Award Winner in 2023.

Joe Diglio and Doug Chapin kicked off MMPA's 108th Annual Meeting, sharing how the cooperative has evolved in the last year and beyond

Michigan State University Dairy Teaching and Research Center was awarded a platinum award in the National Dairy Quality Award program.

To evolve is to survive in the ever-changing world. MMPA’s 108th Annual Meeting at the end of March addressed the impacts and how the cooperative is positioned to not only witness change in the dairy industry, but to orchestrate it. This year, we’ve transformed the future of the milk gallon and we’re looking forward to breaking ground on one of the most sustainable ethanol facilities in the world in 2024. We’re evolving, like we’ve done for the past 107 years. And it’s because of that, we know we’ll be here for the next 100.

On the Cover

During the Annual Meeting, De Grins Oer Dairy in Blanchard, Michigan, was recognized as MMPA’s Top Quality Award Winner. The Okkema family achieved the lowest somatic cell count among the membership in 2023 by working as a family to have healthy animals that produce high quality milk. Learn more about what they do on their farm to achieve success on page 21.

Inside this Issue

De Grins Oer Dairy isn’t alone in producing high quality milk. MMPA members received nearly a quarter of all National Dairy Quality Awards, a true testament to the prestige of the Top Quality Award Winner and the hard work every MMPA member puts in on their farms (pg. 18). Other outstanding MMPA members were recognized during the Annual Meeting (pg. 14) including milestone members reaching 35 and 50 years. You can flip to page 24 to see an overview of the nation’s dairy industry in 2023, a numerical representation of how MMPA and the industry as a whole is continuing to change and grow.

BY JOE DIGLIO, PRESIDENT AND CEO

Early this year, I had the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion during the International Dairy Food Association’s Dairy Forum. During the panel, we discussed evolving consumer behavior and the pressing need for businesses to be responsive. Drawing insights from a McKinsey study on consumer trends, we talked about the intricacies and challenges that companies encounter in meeting ever-changing consumer demands.

On the panel, I had the privilege and honor to represent MMPA and shed light on our own journey from a business-to-business model to a cooperative with a growing consumer-centric approach. This transition was accelerated with the strategic acquisition of Superior Dairy, a move that underscored our commitment to understanding and meeting the evolving needs of consumers. Our approach has been gradual yet deliberate, aligning our strategies with the dynamic shifts in consumer preferences.

During the panel, we talked about how our society continues to see significant shifts, with consumers increasingly expressing interest in understanding the origins of the products they consume. This trend has been further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the importance of transparent communication and consumer education.

While we continue navigating today’s consumer landscape and the volatile nature of the dairy market, we continue to be committed to fostering innovation and enhancing technology, in a way that’s sustainable on member farms, in our plants and in our communities.

Our investments in ventures such as Good Sport, the pioneering dairy-based sports drink; Dairy Distillery, a ground-breaking alliance that will build the world’s lowestcarbon ethanol plant at our Constantine, Mich. facility; and our new partnership with Amul, using MMPA member milk to bring the well-known international brand’s fluid milk to U.S. markets for the first time, all exemplify our proactive approach to diversifying our portfolio, driving sustainable growth and staying ahead of evolving consumer preferences.

During our Annual Meeting held in March we heard from our partners at GoodSport, Dairy Distillery and Amul. The meeting provided a great example of our company’s resilience and adaptability in the face of dynamic market forces and shifting consumer behavior. Through strategic investments and partnerships, and a relentless focus on meeting consumer needs, we are ready to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace.

This optimism for the future wouldn’t be possible without the team who works on our members’ behalf. When we consider all the awards our members received recognition for during the Annual Meeting and the quality milk they produce on the farm becoming a wholesome, nutritious dairy product, it’s a testament to the whole system working. We’re primed and ready for the next challenge and opportunity, because as a team, alongside our members, we’ve proven that we can evolve.

JOE DIGLIO

Is your milking and cooling system prepared for summer?

WE ASKED THE EXPERTS:

MMPA MEMBER SERVICES

Having properly cooled milk is a yearround priority for producers. Along with needing to meet milk cooling standards established by the Grade A Pasteurized Milk Ordinance, milk quality issues can also arise from raw milk that is not cooled adequately.

The Raw Bacteria Count (RBC) is a great indicator of potential cooling issues. Elevated RBC counts may come from areas where there is warm milk sitting for an extended period, such as prolonged time between equipment washes or changing milk filters, or bulk tanks that are experiencing failures in cooling milk.

The Pre-Incubated Count (PIC) can be a potential indicator of slow cooling issues. PICs identify the presence of psychotrophic bacteria; those that can survive refrigeration. Raw milk must be cooled below 45 degrees within two hours of completion of first milking because bacteria can grow very rapidly in such a nutrient-dense environment. While most PICs come from dirty equipment, a slow cooling issue may be identified after a wash analysis is done to confirm equipment is cleaning effectively. RBC and PIC testing can be done by asking your hauler to take a special during pick-ups. Your member representative can also help troubleshoot your milking system to identify potential causes of elevated counts. For cooling issues, please contact your milking equipment dealer to service that equipment as soon as possible.

everything works right, the milk is cool enough for the hauler when they arrive and everyone is happy. With our old system, if one condensing unit went down or our employees forgot to turn them on, it was very hard to have adequately cooled milk. This translated into a real challenge to consistently earn quality premiums for RBC and PIC, on top of a hauler who didn’t like to wait for the milk to cool before he could load!

In June of 2023 we installed a glycol chiller, which now puts milk in the tank at about 42 degrees Fahrenheit during the high-milking groups and 39 degrees Fahrenheit for mid-lactation and low groups. The bulk tank refrigeration can then easily have the milk at 37 degrees Fahrenheit within 30 minutes of starting milking after washing, and then keep it cold throughout milking. We’re only eight months in on the chiller, but both the RBC and PIC have consistently been improved. Additionally, we conducted a cooling audit with Consumer’s Energy as a part of the project, who reimbursed on pounds of milk sold basis to make sure the cooling systems were working optimally.

As milking equipment technicians, maintenance is cheaper than a repair important to service your cooling equipment regularly to stay ahead of any problems that may come during the hot summer months. Most dealers have pre-season maintenance routines that consist of checking compressors, coolant levels (such as freon), and other aspects of a working cooling system. On the farm side, there are a few things that producers can do to minimize the number of technician calls. First, check your cooling to make sure your milk cools below 45 degrees within two hours of finishing first milking and does not struggle to keep up during subsequent milkings. Second, make sure that your compressors are clean and housed in an environment that is minimally dusty and not in direct sunlight. Finally, make sure the unit is getting enough air; blow out the fins routinely to help ensure that the unit does not overheat. These things are simple, and only cost a little bit of time to help maximize the life of your cooling system.

YOUR BEEF CHECKOFF AT WORK DOLLARS

ACADEMY OF NUTRITION AND DIETETICS

Heart Health Webinar Conference Sponsorship & Keynote Speaker

E-Newsletter Advertisement

Social Media Posts (4)

TOTAL REACH: 15,400

LANSING MOMS & SOCIAL INFLUENCER ENGAGEMENT

Sponsored Content Posts

Website Ad

4 Instagram Reels & Facebook Posts

TOTAL REACH: 10,

MICHIGAN ACADEMY OF

HEART HEALTH PROFESSIONAL RESOURCE

Sponsored Webinar Speaker

TOTAL REACH: 100

MICHIGAN INTERNATIONAL

WILX STUDIO 10 MONTHLY SEGMENTS

Television Segments, Website and Social Media

TOTAL REACH

140,000 PRINTED BEEF PROMOTION MATERIALS AND COLLATERAL & INSTAGRAM

PIECES DISTRIBUTED: 10,000

GREAT LAKES, EVEN BETTER STEAKS BILLBOARDS

TOTAL REACH: 5 ILLIO

Continuous Digital Engagement

TOTAL REACH: , 0

NUTRION INFLUENCER NEWSLETTER

Quarterly e-Newsletter to Health & Wellness Influencers

TOTAL REACH: , 4

THROUGH THE BEEF CHECKOFF, MICHIGAN CONSUMERS WERE REACHED A MINIMUM OF

LABOR DAY BRIDGE RUN/WALK

Fresh Coast Beef Kabob Recipe E-Blast On-Site Runners & Walkers

Build Your Base Jerky Distribution

TOTAL REACH: 4 ,000

MICHIGAN AG COUNCIL

Social Sharing of Beef-Specific Content Down on MI Farm Dinner Event Coverage

TOTAL REACH: 4 ,5

7,221,803 TIMES

MMPA producers scoring 95 percent or higher on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Ratings

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*100

MMPA represented during the IDFA Dairy Forum

During the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) Dairy Forum held in Pheonix, Arizona in February, MMPA President & CEO Joe Diglio, served on a panel discussion that explored today’s consumers and changing consumer trends. Diglio shared his perspective on a panel, along with Kristi Jankowski from Sargento Foods, Karen Lancelle from Schreiber Foods and Jaclyn Cardin from Organic Valley. The panel was moderated by Sajal Kohli from McKinsey & Company.

During the panel, Diglio and others shared their perspectives on today’s consumer buying behavior and what their organizations are doing to prepare for the future consumer. Diglio talked about the important role sustainability plays in the marketplace and the industry’s role in sharing the message about the nutritional and environmental benefits of dairy.

“There is a need for dairy,” Diglio said. “As an industry, we should be aligning with educational institutions to promote the facts that can be misleading to consumers.”

MMPA was also represented during the Dairy Forum by Sudeep Jain, MMPA Director of Quality who shared his expertise with IDFA’s NextGen Leadership program, and by Kelly Kerrigan, MMPA Human Resources Director who participated in an employee trend and resource development panel.

MMPA President & CEO Joe Diglio (center) shared his perspective on consumer trends and how MMPA is prepared to serve the next generation of consumers.

MMPA returns $1.6 million of cash patronage refund

MMPA recently paid nearly $1.6 million in cash patronage refunds, equaling a payment of approximately 3 cents per hundredweight on milk marketed during the fiscal year, to its dairy farmer memberowners. This cash allocation represents 100 percent of the Farm Supply Store earnings and 25 percent of the milk marketing earnings. All members who marketed milk through MMPA for fiscal year 2023 received a portion of the allocation.

This payment, in combination with the additional $4.3 million allocated to Certificates of Equity, resulted in a total $5.9 million allocated to members from the business conducted during the fiscal year. In total, the combination of cash refunds and Certificates of Equity equals approximately 12 cents per hundredweight for Fiscal Year 2023.

MMPA kicks off CORE programs!

The MMPA CORE program began in February with two events: MMPA 101 and a Sustainability Summit.

Developed as an outcome of the governance restructure in 2023, the MMPA CORE program provides members the opportunity to deepen their understanding of their cooperative while strengthening relationships with peers, industry partners and MMPA leadership.

During MMPA 101 held on Feb. 1, members toured the Novi laboratory and heard from MMPA President & CEO Joe Diglio, MMPA Board Chairman Doug Chapin and members of the MMPA team on MMPA’s evolution, cooperatives and the role of the Board of Directors, MMPA’s manufacturing plants, MMPA products and customers, milk pricing and member services.

During the Sustainability Summit on Feb. 28, members heard directly from MMPA customers and partners and learned how to get involved in MMPA’s sustainability efforts. During the program, two new farm sustainability projects were launched and members had the opportunity to meet with project partners.

The next CORE program will bring members to Canton, Ohio in April for the opportunity to tour MMPA’s Superior Dairy plant and learn more about Creative Edge, MMPA’s research and product development thinktank.

It pays to partner!

This March, for the second straight year we’re returning $120 million in dividends to members. GreenStone is excited to provide Patronage as a cooperative benefit and it’s just one of the many reasons It Pays to Partner!

CORE: MMPA 101 attendees toured Novi's office and met with staff in the cooperative

MMPA Lab Supervisor Teresa Farmer introduced members to the Novi Laboratory.

Federal Milk Marketing Order Hearing Ends

USDA’s longest-ever federal order hearing ended Jan. 30 with the National Milk Producer Federation’s (NMPF’s) comprehensive approach to modernizing milk pricing at the center of industry discussion. With the Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) update process now moving to its next phase, NMPF leadership remains critical as USDA moves to formulating its own proposal to put before producers.

“NMPF spent more than two years preparing for USDA’s Federal Order hearing, and that preparation paid off,” said NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud in a statement after the end of testimony and rebuttals. “Our proposals, unanimously supported by our Board of Directors, reflect farmer unity and a good-faith effort to build industry consensus.

“After five months, 12,000 pages of testimony, and almost two dozen separate proposals considered, our plan remains the most comprehensive, coherent, and compelling framework for modernizing a system that’s badly in need of improvement. We look forward to working with USDA and the entire industry in the weeks and months to come, noting that any plan USDA designs will by necessity require complex analysis to result in a proposal that serves diverse farmer needs well.”

Organized discussions of the federal milk-pricing system, which showed strains under the weight of the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to struggle in the face of a changing industry, began with NMPF in 2021. The five-month USDA hearing in Carmel, IN, revolved around NMPF’s suite of proposals for change unanimously adopted by its Board of Directors last year.

The hearing has addressed critical issues for dairy farmers, including the “make allowance” re-imbursing processor costs, component pricing for milk, and the Class I price surface that considers travel expenses.

Recent discussions have revolved around the so-called Class I mover, a change to which in 2019 has cost farmers roughly $1.2 billion. Doud called for change to the mover in his statement and in NMPF’s monthly CEO’s Corner column published today. “We’ll continue to advocate for badly needed changes in areas such as the Class I mover,” he said. “It needs to change back to the previous “higherof’ formula that served farmers best. The higher-of responds quickly to the marketplace, it helps farmer cash flow, it’s simple to understand, and it would have no real impact on processors who are using the formula to boost their immediate balance sheets, not manage future risk as they claim.”

NMPF and member cooperative staff are currently formulating NMPF’s elaboration and defense of its positions in the hearing to USDA, the first step toward USDA’s own proposal. That’s due in less than two months – and only underscores how much work is left to do in creating a fairer pricing system for farmers, Doud said.

“This final year is the most critical,” he said. “We are excited to continue our leadership, and will, as always, fight for the best approaches to ensure that dairy farms prosper.”

NMPF supports the federal legislation that authorizes the FMMO system, as well as improvements that increase clarity and producer understanding of milk pricing and ensure an orderly market and fair prices for dairy farmers.

NMPF’s proposed changes to the Federal Milk Marketing Order System:

• Returning to the “higher of” Class I mover;

• Discontinuing the use of barrel cheese in the protein component price formula;

• Extending the current 30-day reporting limit to 45 days on forward priced sales on nonfat dry milk and dry whey to capture more exports sales in the USDA product price reporting;

• Updating milk component factors for protein, other solids and nonfat solids in the Class III and Class IV skim milk price formulas;

• Developing a process to ensure makeallowances are reviewed more frequently through legislation directing USDA to conduct mandatory plant-cost studies every two years;

• Updating dairy product manufacturing allowances contained in the USDA milk price formulas; and

• Updating the Class I differential price system to reflect changes in the cost of delivering bulk milk to fluid processing plants.

SOURCE: National Milk Producers Federation

MMPA partners with well-known, international brand Amul

PARTNERSHIP WILL INTRODUCE THE FIRST AMUL BRANDED FLUID MILK PRODUCTS IN THE U.S. MARKET.

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), America’s tenth largest dairy cooperative, announced a partnership with Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Limited (GCMMF), the world’s largest dairy cooperative. This partnership between the two organizations will bring GCMMF’s Amul branded fluid milk products to millions of Americans.

Amul manufactures a wide range of branded milk and milk products in India and exports them to more than 50 other countries around the world, including the U.S. Owned by 3.6

MMPA’s caseless milk packaging design and proprietary fluid milk technology allow Amul to market fluid milk in specialty stores throughout the Midwest and East Coast with 6%, 4.5%, 3.25% and 2% fat levels under their brands

Amul Gold, Amul Shakti, Amul Taaza, and Amul Slim n Trim milk, respectively. The collaboration brings together MMPA’s unique technology capabilities and highquality member milk with the Amul

brand’s rapidly growing and well-known, international reputation for premium dairy products.

Amul’s partnership with Michigan-based MMPA is a continuation of the brand’s ties to Michigan. Dr. Verghese Kurien, known as the Milkman of India and the founder chairman of GCMMF, is a Michigan State University alumnus and credited for the overall success of India’s dairy industry.

“We are very honored and pleased to enter into an association with MMPA, a very respected 108-year-old dairy cooperative. This association will ensure all our American and Indian consumers will be nourished and energized with the goodness of Amul Milk,” Amul Managing Director Dr. Jayen Mehta said. “This is the first time that Amul fresh milk is being launched anywhere outside India. It is our great pleasure to bring the taste of India to the world, in alignment with the vision of our Hon Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi to make Amul a global dairy brand.”

About Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (Amul) Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, (Amul) based in Anand, Gujarat is world’s largest farmerowned dairy cooperative. It is owned by 3.6 million dairy farmers and procures 30 million liters of milk every day and processes it across 100 dairy plants in India and markets more than 50 categories of products like Amul Milk, Amul Butter, Amul Cheese, Amul Ice Cream, among many others. Amul products are market leaders in India across all categories of dairy products in India. Amul is the most trusted food brand of India and is also known for its Amul Topical campaign, the longest running advertising campaign in the world.

Pictured above (L-R): Brad Parks, MMPA Director of FP&A and Business Development; Sudeep Jain, MMPA Director of Quality; Doug Chapin, MMPA Board Chairman; Joe Diglio, MMPA President & CEO; Dr. Jayen Mehta, Amul Managing Director; Shashank Shah, Amul Sales Manager; Sheila Burkhardt, MMPA Chief Corporate Affairs Officer; Greg Soehnlen, MMPA Chief Operating and Business Development Officer.

“We are excited about where we are headed as an organization and we’re doing it on behalf of you: to extract value, tout your message and continue to get the nutritional aspects of what you produce on the farm into the marketplace. This wouldn’t be possible without the many partners who are here today.”

– JOE DIGLIO, MMPA PRESIDENT & CEO

MMPA MEMBERS AND GUESTS GATHER TO CELEBRATE ASSOCIATION’S SUCCESS

The world is changing at a rapid pace. Today’s consumers are evolving and MMPA isn’t stepping back to witness change but is orchestrating it. It takes change to survive in our industry. And we’re proud to say we’re a different cooperative today than we were yesterday, and even prouder to say we’ll be different tomorrow than we are today. MMPA members and guests gathered in Novi, Mich. for the 108th Annual Meeting on March 20 to learn how we’re evolving, and to celebrate our partners and members who have made this success possible.

During the meeting, attendees learned more about our investment in GoodSport, a brand disrupting the sports drink aisle as we know today; how we are breaking ground on one of the most sustainable ethanol facilities in the world this year as part of our partnership with Dairy Distillery; and witnessed the announcement of a new alliance with Amul, a brand owned by the largest dairy cooperative in the world. And MMPA is doing all of this while remaining committed to producing some of the highest quality milk in the nation.

Award-Winning Members

“Our cooperative’s strength relies on young farmers who have a future in our organization, our long-time members who provide the stability and wisdom that come with many years in the business, and members who are willing to meet with consumers where they are to promote our industry.” – Doug Chapin, MMPA Board Chairman

During the Annual Meeting, MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator finalists, members reaching 35 and 50 years of membership, MMPA Dairy Communicator Service Award recipients, and the MMPA Top Quality Award winner were recognized.

OUTSTANDING YOUNG DAIRY COOPERATORS

2023 OYDC

• Ryan Benthem, McBain, Michigan

2023 OYDC Runners-Up

• BJ & Autumn Benkovsky of Eaton Rapids, Michigan

2023 OYDC Finalists

• Bryan & Molly Benso, Cadillac, Michigan

• Steven & Whitney Wamhoff, Hopkins, Michigan

DAIRY COMMUNICATOR SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS

30-Year Dairy Communicator

• Jane Wood of Kingston, Michigan

10-Year Dairy Communicator

• Jordan Noll of Croswell, Michigan

5-Year Dairy Communicator

• Tammy Spicher of Paw Paw, Michigan

MMPA TOP QUALITY AWARD WINNER

• De Grins Oer Dairy, Blanchard, Michigan

MILESTONE MEMBERS

35-Year Members

• Roger Weiss of Frankenmuth, Michigan

• Marvin J Rubingh of Ellsworth, Michigan

• Terry K Lautner of Traverse City, Michigan

• David Schultz of Sandusky, Michigan

• Glen Sparks of Fremont, Michigan

• Rodney Hisler of Charlotte Michigan

50-Year Member

• William G Cumper of Marlette, Michigan

“I bring with me greetings of 1.4 billion people from India and of course, the 3.6 million farmers who own the brand, Amul. On this historic day, we are honored to announce our association with the very respected 108-year-old dairy cooperative that is MMPA.”

– DR. JAYEN MEHTA, AMUL MANAGING DIRECTOR

“The Dairy Distillery project will be one of the dairy industry’s largest decarbonization projects. MMPA’s Constantine, Mich. plant produces around 16,000 tons of permeate annually, which will generate 16,000 tons of carbon reduction a year when turned into ethanol and blended into fuel.”

– OMID MCDONALD, DAIRY DISTILLERY FOUNDER & CEO

“We’re making a dent in the sports nutrition world, and because of this partnership with MMPA, we’re going to bring new innovation to life. With the use of your raw materials and the technology and expertise of Creative Edge, we’re able to work on new products like protein powders and protein bars.”

– MICHELLE MCBRIDE, GOODSPORT FOUNDER & CEO

Doug Chapin, MMPA Board Chairman

2023 OYDC, Ryan Benthem De Grins Oer Dairy, 2023 MMPA Top Quality Award Winners

• Members Adopt New Governance Structure

In March of 2023, MMPA delegates unanimously approved a proposal to modernize MMPA’s governance structure. Originally put forward by the MMPA Membership Structure Task Force, the proposal gives every member farm one vote and shifts the cooperative’s grassroots efforts from a local to a district structure.

• 96-ounce Bottle Innovation Launches

MMPA launched a 96-ounce bottle made from Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) in 2023. The groundbreaking, patent-pending innovation is from Creative Edge, MMPA’s team of creative thinkers focused on pushing the needle and keeping dairy relevant to today’s consumers.

• MMPA Donates

1 Million Gallons of Milk in 2023

MMPA is committed to supporting the communities we live and work in, especially in the face of a crisis. As part of the effort, MMPA donated 9,400 gallons of milk from the Superior Dairy plant in Canton, Ohio to residents of East Palestine, Ohio when a train derailment contaminated local drinking water. During periods of water contamination, milk is a safe source of nourishment.

• MMPA’s Constantine Plant Receives Employee Safety Award

MMPA’s plant in Constantine, Mich. received an International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) safety award for outstanding worker safety. The annual Dairy Industry Safety Recognition Awards program, co-sponsored by IDFA and Dairy Foods magazine, honors U.S. dairy facilities and trucking operations for outstanding worker safety.

• MMPA Launches Milk Moovement

In 2023, MMPA announced a partnership with Milk Moovement, a dairy supply chain software provider, to digitize and optimize our supply chain. Milk Moovement digitizes the entire supply chain to optimize production from the farm to the processing facilities. The cloud-based platform tracks all milk shipments and delivers real-time quality and quantity information to all dairy stakeholders, allowing better decisions to be made faster.

STEVE AND WHITNEY

WAMHOFF

Q&A:

Q: What's your farms greatest achievement?

To be able to continue as a family run and worked farm for 6 generations now.

Q: Is what you're doing now what you dreamed of doing as a kid?

I always thought I'd be tied to the farm somehow when I was growing up.

Q: What do you love about being a farmer?

Working for myself, knowing that I'm building my own future, not someone else's.

Q: What's the key to running a dairy farm?

Hard work and communication.

Q: What's your favorite chore? Why?

Breeding cows because it helps push the farms genetics and bottom line forward.

Q: Why do you milk cows?

I grew up in a barn helping milk cows and feeding calves. After finishing my degree, I couldn't stand the idea of being behind a desk or in an office for 40+ hours a week. An opportunity arose on the farm, and I jumped into it with both feet.

Q: Ultimate cow? Sired by? Average production? 1004, Sired by Billy (one of our own bulls raised bulls), 92lb average over days milked.

Q: Your farm management style in 3 words: Full Family Effort.

Q: What's one practice you'd try on your farm if you knew it was impossible to fail?

Putting cover crops on all field while grazing cattle on the cover crops.

Q: What does your farm look like in 30 years?

Hopefully full of healthy cows, luscious soil, and a beautiful great family.

Steve and Whitney Wamhoff are all about diversification on Wamhoff Family Dairy Farm LLC. The couple recognizes the advantages of multiple revenue streams and knows what it takes to make it happen. They raise quality heifers and steers for sale and have pushed to grow more cash crops. These two can’t do it alone though, Steve’s father and brother help operate the dairy and they are raising three kids, Jameson, Makenzie, and Haley.

ON THEIR FARM:

On their dairy in Hopkins, Michigan you’ll find Holstein cows being milked in a double eight parallel parlor. With monitoring systems on the cows and the Delpro parlor system they use technology to gather information and make decisions on an individual cow and whole herd basis. The Wamhoff’s continually strive to grow and be better every day. They move to grow as a family and farm to ensure that they have a chance to do it again and again.

MMPA DAIRY FARMERS TAKE HOME NATIONAL DAIRY QUALIT Y AWARDS

Nine Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) dairy farms were awarded National Dairy Quality Awards by the National Mastitis Council (NMC). Recognized during the NMC Annual Meeting today in Dallas, Texas, these MMPA members were among 39 nationally recognized farms in the annual award program and were selected from a pool of 85 applicants nationwide.

One MMPA farm earned the highest honor, which was granted to only six dairy farms in the U.S. The platinum award winner was the Michigan State

Dairy Teaching and Research Center in Lansing, Michigan. MMPA farms also won two gold awards, three silver awards, plus three honorable mentions. “MMPA’s members exemplify an unparalleled commitment to milk quality within the dairy industry. Their dedication to animal care, meticulous attention to farm details, and ongoing efforts result in the production of some of the finest quality nationwide. The notable representation in this year’s NMC National Dairy Quality Awards is a clear testament to the relentless hard work of our members and the devoted field staff in upholding excellence,” Ben Chapin, Director of Member Services said.

MMPA offers a portfolio of member services to help members produce the

highest quality milk possible, with field representatives working closely with each member to achieve quality goals. MMPA also offers a quality premium incentive for its members producing higher quality milk. Overall, MMPA members’ milk quality continues to be impressive through the years, with somatic cell counts (SCC), a key milk quality indicator, reaching impressive lows in 2023. MMPA offers its own quality award program and this year presented awards to 295 member farms for the production of outstanding quality milk over the last fiscal year.

MMPA’s representation in the NMC National Dairy Quality Award Program further underscores the hard work of the cooperative’s farms

while competing against other wellperforming farmers across the country.

NDQA judges considered many criteria when reviewing finalists’ applications. In addition to milk quality indicators, judges looked at specific details about each operation, including milking routine, cow comfort, udder health monitoring programs, treatment and prevention programs, strategies for overall herd health and welfare, and adherence to drug use and record keeping regulations.

This year’s NDQA sponsors included Boehringer Ingelheim, GEA, Conewango, Cargill, and Hoard’s Dairyman and NMC. NMC is an international professional organization, based in Minnesota, devoted to reducing mastitis and enhancing milk quality.

PLATINUM

• Michigan State University Dairy Teaching and Research Center, Lansing, Michigan

GOLD

• Garlomar Farms (Gary Zuiderveen and Christ Martz), Falmouth, Michigan

• Horning Farms (Earl, Jeffrey, Lynda and Mason Horning, and Katelyn Packard), Manchester, Michigan

SILVER

• Clearview Dairy Farm (Paul, Betty, and Brian DeMann), Martin, Michigan

• Schultz Dairy (Dave and Kelton Schultz), Sandusky, Michigan

• Evergreen Dairy Farm (Kris and Carla Wardin), Saint Johns, Michigan

HONORABLE MENTION

• Slater Farms 88th (Allen and Aaron Slater), Holton, Michigan

• Hartland Farms (Brad, Burke, Chad, and Nick Hart), Clayton, Michigan

• Ritter Farms (James, Valerie, Brad, and Tonia Ritter), Byron, Michigan

From Seven to 700 Cows: The Story of a Modern Day Pioneer

BY MIKAYLA BOWEN

FAMILY. IT IS EVERYTHING TO TJERK OKKEMA.

In 1999, fueled by a dream to establish a dairy farm according to his vision, he relocated his wife, Ramona OkkemaClark, and three childrenEvelyn Okkema-Damveld, Cora Okkema and DirkThomas Okkema-from The Netherlands to America.

Together they have built a healthy herd in Blanchard, Mich., with milk quality that sets them apart from Michigan Milk Producers Association’s membership, earning them the cooperative’s coveted title of Top Quality Award Winner in 2023.

“We don’t have a somatic cell count goal. Our goal is to have healthy animals that produce high quality milk,” said Tjerk. “Consistency is key. Do the same thing every day.”

The Okkema family places great value in the health of their cows and quality of milk. It is their consistently low average somatic cell count, a common milk quality indicator, of 49,000 proves they’re doing something right.

Family First

Everyone in the Okkemas’ immediate family is involved on the farm in some form, helping De Grins Oer Dairy succeed.

“The youngest daughter, Evelyn, is completely involved 100% as the herdsperson. Cora, our middle one, is somewhat involved, working mainly with Michigan State University’s Dairy Extension Team. And Dirk, the oldest, is a realtor, but he wants to keep his roots in dairy as he is in charge of the farm’s social media and promotion, and helps out around the dairy when needed,” said Ramona.

Ramona, former calf feeder and cow handler, now works mostly in the office handling bookkeeping, paperwork, phone calls, etc. As the owner, Tjerk oversees big picture things but doesn’t shy away from getting his hands dirty. “I enjoy working with the cows the most. I like everything except feeding calves. The summer and fall time are especially my favorite, I enjoy being outside.”

Aaron Damveld, Agricultural Equipment Foreman, is a jack of all trades, ranging from mechanics and fieldwork to tending to the heifers, he enjoys working with all aspects of

the dairy. “I can do almost everything on the farm. I learned a lot from working for my grandfather and uncle growing up.”

The Okkema’s contribute their success to the strength of their family unit and their faith in God.

Ramona states, “Working with family, I mean that’s all I’ve ever done. Your family has your back. No matter how the day ends, you know your family has your back. We all have a silent understanding of what everybody’s going through when it comes to the farm scene.”

The Beginning

No matter how the day ends you know your family has your back.

We all have a silent understanding of what everybody’s going through when it comes to the farm scene.”

Tjerk and Ramona’s story begins in 1982 when she traveled from America to the Netherlands through a 4-H program. There she met Tjerk who was working with his father on their dairy farm. They married 9 ½ years later, Ramona moved to Achlum, and they grew their family. During their time in the small village in the Netherlands, Tjerk took over operations of the family farm milking almost 50 cows. Not long after Tjerk came to Ramona with a proposal.

Ramona states, “[Tjerk] came to me and said, ‘What would you think, because

of the milk quota here, of moving to America? Fast forward, we went through the immigration process and moved here June 1, 1999. He’s been making improvements and transforming this dairy ever since.”

Tjerk was quick to add, “Well, we showed up June 1st, but I had to do a lot of cleaning before we started milking in August. I started by buying a load of seven milkers and the others were springers that came from Canada. The first load of milk for shipment had a 350,000 somatic cell count as the agitator couldn’t even reach the milk tank.”

They have come a long way since then. Now milking 700 cows, three times a day, in a 40-stall rotary and producing the highest quality of milk.

Today’s Practices

The dairy’s mission reads, “By exemplifying high standards through animal care and progressive practices, we commit ourselves daily to creating quality milk for everyone near and far.” Not only have the Okkema’s stayed true to their mission but they have had success in knowing that they could not have gotten to where they are alone. Before their expansion of the newest barn and rotary in 2017 the family prayed to God over the land. Their accomplishments have been attributed to the profound influence of their faith, with the belief in God playing a pivotal role in their journey to success. Industry professionals and technology are resources that the family has taken advantage of to be as efficient as possible.

“Every couple of months we have a management meeting and I work personally with a lot of the companies that we hire to help us on the farm such as our vet office, nutritionist, etc.,” Evelyn shared. “The company our nutritionist is with has a calf specialist, so we work closely with them as well.”

The implementation of ear tag monitors five years ago has aided in monitoring herd health and becoming more precise with breeding protocols.

Groot Deersum 2, Achlum, The Netherlands. Built in 1658, this was Tjerk’s farm home. He grew up here and it is where Tjerk and Ramona first met and started their family after they married in 1991.

“It tracks the cow’s eating habits by monitoring how often they’re flipping their ears. If a cow feels sick her ears will droop and may be an indicator that she has mastitis. The tags catch illness a lot faster than somebody just quickly walking through the barn who may overlook her. The sooner we are aware she is ill the quicker we can treat her and have her healthy again”, states Evelyn. Another technology that has improved milk quality but also solved a labor issue, is the use of a post dip robot arm

The implementation of ear tag monitors five years ago has aided in monitoring herd health and becoming more precise with breeding protocols.

for the rotary. “The robot has a camera on it so that it can find the teats and it is 99% accurate. We have been able to take two people from the parlor and reduce our somatic cell count,” Tjerk said.

The Okkemas take pride in their cleanliness on the farm. They bed the stalls with clean sand every week and scrape the stalls three times a day.

As members of MMPA for 25 years, they’ve utilized member services such as milker trainings and educating employees through the Dairy Care Academy Program. “I utilize the Dairy Care Academy courses for the calf feeders and MMPA’s Spanish milker trainings for the people in the parlor,” states Evelyn. “The key to improving milk quality is in the details,” Tjerk said. “The little things and the consistency. If you’re doing it right, you’re doing it right. Our goal is not to have the lowest somatic cell count, but to produce high quality milk.”

Fleckvieh cows make up 1% of the Okkemas herd. They are a dual-purpose breed incorporated for their reduced mastitis and somatic cell counts, increased protein content in milk, and increased longevity and overall health. Pictured is Honey, or 5409, the first calf born on the dairy and is now 6 years old and going strong.

The Okkemas milk 700 cows, three times a day in their 40-stall rotary parlor which was built in 2017.

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YOUR DAIRY CHECKOFF

YOUR DAIRY CHECKOFF

NATIONAL UPDATES

Hot Chocolate Milk Program In Schools

A dairy checkoff partnership is putting hot chocolate milk into the hands of students during a pilot with a leading school foodservice company.

National Dairy Council (NDC) and Chartwells K12, which serves more than 2 million meals daily at 700 U.S. school districts, have launched the Hot Chocolate Milk program in 58 schools. The pilot, which will run through the end of the school year, features chocolate milk – with toppings such as cinnamon and peppermint – served hot during breakfast and lunch.

NDC provided a Hot Chocolate Milk kit to schools participating in the pilot program, which included a transport cart with branded panels, an insulated beverage dispenser, a digital thermometer and more. Chartwells K12 is optimistic hot chocolate milk will be popular among students and can help increase overall meal participation in schools.

Many state and regional dairy checkoff teams already have successful hot chocolate strategies in place, whose programs on average experienced 14% increases of milk sales and an 11% jump in breakfast participation.

LOCAL UPDATES

Dairy Resources en Español

The Adopt a Cow program continues to grow in popularity and reach. In Indiana, Ashley Risner of Loehmer Dairy sends updates of pictures and live chats throughout the year, which corresponds with lesson plans and school standards for a range of ages. As a former Spanish teacher, Ashley also conducted the program for Spanish classes and native speakers, serving a national audience. Over 31,000 Indiana students are enrolled in the program this year, with over 7,000 additional students enrolled in the Spanish program across the country.

The Virtual Farm Tour program also expanded offerings for Hispanic communities. As the second largest, and fastest-growing, demographic in the United States, American Dairy Association Indiana (ADAI) is providing dairy information and education for this rapidly growing audience. ADAI’s popular “Milk from Cow to You” videos were translated into Spanish, and the Hispanic Heritage Month virtual farm tour that introduced Spanish words on the dairy had the second-highest registration numbers across all virtual offerings for the year.

Wild About Milk at the Indianapolis Zoo

This year, ADAI worked with long-time partners at the Indianapolis Zoo (and one of the top tourism locations in

the state with over 1.2 million visitors each year) to place milk coolers in high-profile concessions, including Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen during Christmas at the Zoo. The updates saw milk sales increase 10x over recent years! Finding new ways to support our partnerships and extend opportunities for milk remains our focus. These partners amplify dairy’s messages and reach audiences that may not find us on their own.

Milk and Cookies with the Detroit Lions

As part of UDIM’s partnership with the Detroit Lions, they have created a video series with former Fuel Up to Play 60 Player Ambassador Frank Ragnow. The series “Milk and Cookies,” features a Q&A between a few young Lions fans, Frank, and some of his teammates. The four videos are posted on the Lions’ social media channels with a total so far of 1.3M impressions and almost 800K video views. You can watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ Ahv4fQdW-XQ

/ Detroit Lions helmet: Steve Cukrov

UNITED DAIRY INDUSTRY OF MICHIGAN

CHECKOFF AT WORK

CHECKOFF AT WORK

Milk Means More Hot Chocolate Secret Menu Ad Campaign

Shhh . . . only share these recipes with your true hot chocolate-loving friends and family! Milk Means More is promoting decadent hot chocolate recipes this winter in an ad campaign on TikTok, Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram and Google Search. We’ve got spicy hot chocolate, lactosefree hot chocolate, and many more. But the secret ingredient in every recipe is milk. Find these recipes at milkmeansmore.org.

National Milk Day School Celebrations

Some Michigan students were welcomed back in the New Year with a National Milk Day celebration in school cafeterias on January 11! Hallways and lunchrooms were decorated with Milk, It’s Spot On, and prizes were awarded to students enjoying milk with their meals in nearly 90 schools K-12 in Michigan.

Kroger Promotion Drives Milk Sales

ADA Mideast recently executed a successful e-commerce milk promotion with Kroger in the Columbus and Cincinnati marketing areas.

During the 4-week promotional period, Kroger shoppers saw ads on Kroger.com and other websites encouraging them to purchase milk. The ads resulted in $4.9 million in real milk sales, with a return on ad spend of $30.70 for every $1 invested, exceeding the average for this category. In addition, 1,243 new households were inspired to purchase dairy milk as a direct result of the campaign!

A different ad targeted lactose-free milk shoppers, including those who also purchased milk alternatives. These ads resulted in $802,500 in lactose-free dairy milk sales! The return on ad spend was $5.70 for every $1 invested - twice as much as the average for this category.

COMBINED, THE ADS CREATED AWARENESS FOR REAL MILK, GENERATING MORE THAN

10.2 million IMPRESSIONS.

News Stories Tout Milk as an Important Source of Iodine

An 8-ounce glass of milk provides 60% of the recommended daily serving of iodine, a nutrient that is critical during the first 1,000 days of life - from conception through age 2. The need for iodine increases by more than 50% during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and many people of child-bearing age may already be iodine deficient before they even become pregnant.

To highlight that dairy foods are high quality sources of iodine, ADA Mideast pitched a story to news reporters and created multimedia elements for their use. Two Ohio experts, pediatrician Elizabeth Zmuda and registered dietitian Megan Maisano, were featured as media spokespeople.

TV and online coverage resulted in 28 placements, reaching an audience of 5.6 million! ADA Mideast will continue to promote this topic in 2024.

TO SUBMIT FREELINERS AND CLASSIFIED ADS, CONTACT MMPA VIA EMAIL AT MESSENGER@MIMILK.COM OR VISIT MIMILK.COM/FREELINER-CLASSIFIED.

Freeliners Policy

The Freeliners column is open to current MMPA members who wish to advertise—at no charge— goods or services relating directly to their dairy farm operations.

• An item submitted will be published for no more than two consecutive issues (one issue, unless otherwise requested). After that, it will be withdrawn.

• It will be published again for no more than two consecutive months only if the member resubmits the item by writing or calling the Novi office.

• Reference to a name of a firm or other commercial enterprise with which a member is involved will be deleted, with permission of the member.

• If the member does not wish such deletion, he/ she may choose to have the item published as a Classified Ad at the regular per-line rate.

• Freeliners must be received by the 10th of the month preceding desired month of publication.

FOR SALE: 4-TON FEED BIN WITH FLEX AUGER. Call 810-728-6237.

FOR SALE: DAIRYPLAN C-21 SOFTWARE SYSTEM WITH COMPUTER. Call 810-728-6237.

FOR SALE: 800-GALLON MUELLER BULK TANK. H&S 5126 side slinger manure spreader. Call 989-551-5977.

FOR SALE: 3000-GALLON SURGE BULK TANK. Model 87310 Serial No 931001. Was used since new 30 years ago, never moved in that time. Just upgraded to a bigger tank. Included are the Control Box, Wash Pump, 2 single phase 5hp compressors, and a GEA Super Heater. Asking $20,000 and can help you load it. Contact Brian 269-720-7637.

FOR SALE: 2022 & 2023 CORN SILAGE. Approximately 15,000 ton. $40 per ton picked up. Location South Clare County. Call or text Tim at 989-429-6002.

FOR SALE: FUTURECOW TEAT PREP SYSTEM, COMPLETE SYSTEM. Control box, chemical mixer/ pump, cable and 3 extra scrubbers. Worked great, no longer used after robots installed. $10,000 or OBO. Call 231-578-3007.

FOR SALE: 8 VIRGIN HOLSTEIN BULLS. 15 months old and up. Lew-Max genetics, purchased as wet calves.Call 989-640-9420.

FOR SALE: NICE HOLSTEIN, JERSEY AND HOLSTEIN/ JERSEY CROSS HEIFERS. All sizes. Call 260-7058185.

FOR SALE: FRESH FIRST LACTATION COWS with solid genetics, 14-50 days fresh. Call or text 734-776-0285.

400+ SCR COW COLLARS. Some in almost new condition and under warranty. Best offer. Contact Kevin at 989-277-2880.

CASE IH 7250 6593 hours in use so can change, condition is above average needs a cab kit. Very sound original tractor used for pulling tandem Brillion seeders and other light work, 2nd owner bought at 3,800 hours. Good work horse. $52,500 front duals have never used, but are included. Call 989-551-0681.

BRILLION 12.5 FT. SEEDER, GRASS AND ALFALFA SPLIT BOX. Bought new in excellent condition 14,750. 2 available. If purchasing 2 tandem hitch available older style but works well for $3500.

Case IH puma 210 approx. 5,600 hours in use so can change. Loaded heated seats, light package. Set up for 30-inch rows, deluxe electronic hydraulics $55,000. 32 ft. unverferth double basket minimal use $8,500. Call 989-551-0681.

Classifieds

C lassifieds Policy

Cost for classifieds is $25 for the first 35 words and then $5 for each additional word. Payment due with order. All ads must be received by the 10th of the month preceding desired month of publication. MMPA neither sponsors nor endorses products or services advertised in the Milk Messenger

OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can fix your scabbled floors. Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking of concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving Inc., Portland. 517-647-7381.

DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: No water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better traction. We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. Three operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. since 1987. Call 1-800-365-3361.

CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-STATE SCABBLING: Home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices. 800-554-2288. www.tristatescabbling.com

A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS UPRIGHT!

Concrete grooving/texturing provides high quality traction in new and old concrete, fast service. NIENOW GROOVING. Call Cliff at 989-635-1494.

FOR SALE: NEW & USED MILK TANKS. We stock all sizes, makes, models. Special prices to co-op members, corporate & private farms. Contact us anytime day or night. Special on 2000 gal. Muellers for $13,900 & up. 2700 & 4000 gal. Muellers call for quote. 800-558-0112.

STRAW & DRY HAY (large & small bales). Feed Oats, Feed Barley and Corn Silage. Delivery available. Call 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

ALFALFA HAYLAGE (EXCELLENT & FAIR GRADES) & CORN SILAGE. Please call 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

NEW KATOLIGHT PTO GENERATOR, 60 KW, keep everyone warm and producing if there is a power outage. Call Brent at 248-770-5122.

SEED CORN - "Minnesota 13" Open Pollinated 85 Day Yellow Field Corn Seed. High Protein, High Yield, High Fat, Fast Drydown. Great Digestibility! 80,000 graded seeds $100.00 JanksSeeds.com 989-284-5052.

WHEAT STRAW 3 X 4 X 8 BALES. Alfalfa Hay 3 X 4 X 8 Bales and some cubes. Call John 517-881-2722.

FOR SALE: KUHN VERTICAL MIXER WAGON. Model 5135. Bought new in October 2017. Used till December 2022. Always housed and maintained. Used one load a day on 80 cow dairy. In good condition. 70+ freestall with neck rail as well. Leave a message at 269-377-2638 please.

FOR SALE: COMPLETE DOUBLE SIX HERRINGBONE

PARLOR, surge vacuum and pulsation, delevalve milkers receiver, plate cooler, Mueller 800-gallon bulk tank, new 4hp compressor in 2021, many extra parts, GEA stalls new in 2012. Package price $15,000. Call 269-377-2638.

Cloth and Paper Towels for Udder Prep

The MMPA Farm Supply Store has many options to choose from when trying to decide how to clean and dry your cows’ teats before putting those claws on. From cloth to paper, each have their own advantages and disadvantages. No matter your choice, we’ve got you covered.

Disposable Paper Towels

PRICE/TOWEL*

TOWELS

$0.0216 V-Single Fold Towels (2,800 towels/box)

$0.1183

$0.0223

Roll Cow Towels (12 rolls with 350’/roll)

Scott Hand Towels (20 rolls with 128 sheets/roll)

$0.0321 Sani-Prep Towels 1772 (1,980 towels/box)

$0.0262

$0.0220

Reusable Cloth Towels

PRICE/TOWEL*

$0.6500

$0.4592

$0.7444

1770 Towel, Single Fold (2,400 towels/box)

Dairy Towels 25 lbs. (approximately 2,000 towels/box)

TOWELS

Oxford Washcloths (12/pack)

Masterweave Washcloths (approximately 50/pack)

Microfiber Washcloths (50/pack)

*Prices as of January 26, 2024. For current pricing, visit mimilk.com/farm-supply-store/

MMPA Field Staff

Ben Chapin, Remus, Member Services Director ...............

Steve Lehman, Ithaca, Raw Milk Compliance

Doug Soehnlen, Member/Superior Supply Representative

Joe Packard – Area Supervisor

Brandon Ewers, Coldwater

Alyssa Stace, Elkhart, IN, Animal Care/Sustainability

Emily Patton, Lansing

Christy Dinsmoore – Area Supervisor

Dustin Hooks, Ossineke, MI ........................................................

Carley VanNorman, Ruth, MI

Chelsea Smith, Falmouth, MI

Lindsay Green, DeWitt, Animal Care /Sustainability

Sarah Michalek – Farm Sustainability Manager

Deb Gingrich, Leroy, Animal Care/Sustainability

Rachel Brown, Charlotte, Sustainability Coordinator

MMPA Labs

Novi (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)

In Michigan

Toll Free

Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.)

Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.)

989-289-0731

989-330-1638

330-575-4643

248-520-3481

231-414-4539

269-967-7351

248-880-3785

248-513-7920

269-245-6632

248-826-6294

231-519-2455

989-488-8159

248-305-0537

248-520-3580

248-826-7243

Novi Headquarters

Main Office

Local line

800-572-5824

800-233-2405

989-834-2515

800-391-7560

Farm Supply - Mt. Pleasant

Supervisor: Katie Pierson, Mt. Pleasant

Main Line

Toll Free

Orders (Novi)

Fax

Farm Supply Sales Representative

Jake Riley, Mt. Pleasant

989-317-8370

877-367-6455

800-572-5824, then dial 2

989-317-8372

248-912-5070

John Lehman, Elsie, Bulk Tank Calibration................................ 248-444-6775

248-474-6672

Toll free ............................................................................... 800-572-5824

President and Chief Executive Officer

Joe Diglio ext. 202

Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

Sheila Burkhardt ext. 208

Chief Operations and Business Development Officer

Greg Soehnlen ext. 341

Director of Business Development

Brad Parks ext. 341

Laboratory Supervisor

Teresa Farmer ............................................................................... ext. 219

Quality

Sudeep Jain ext. 305

Member Services

Emily Keranen ext. 203

Human Resources

Kelly Kerrigan ext. 301

Commodity Sales

Molly Costaris ext. 209

Communications

Emily Kittendorf ext. 234

Corporate Controller

Jeannie Strain ext. 312

Member Relations

Jessica Welch ............................................................................... ext. 303

Manufacturing Plants

Canton, Ohio

Chris Soehnlen, Plant Manager 330-477-4515

Constantine, Michigan

Dave Davis, Plant Manager 269-435-2835

Ovid, Michigan

Glen Kienitz, Plant Manager 989-834-2221

Middlebury Cheese Company, Middlebury, Indiana

Plant Manager ....................................................................... 574-825-9511

If you are unable to reach your assigned member representative, please contact the representatives listed in your area. Your assigned member representative is listed on your quality statements or can be found by visiting mimilk.com/contact/field-staff and searching by your producer number.

Board of Directors Officers

Doug Chapin, Board Chairman

Tony Jandernoa

Board Vice Chairman

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

Joe Diglio, President and CEO

Sheila Burkhardt, Secretary

Greg Soehnlen, COO

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

Directors-At-Large

Aaron Gasper, Lowell, MI 616-291-4092

Bruce Benthem, McBain, MI 231-920-1615

Kris Wardin, St. Johns, MI 989-640-9420

District Directors

1 Paul Keener Ashland, OH 330-988-0139

1 Kurt Steiner Creston, OH 330-464-1219

2 Brian DeMann Martin, MI 269-720-7637

2 Brian Preston Quincy, MI 517-376-1350

3 Doug Chapin Remus, MI 231-349-4059

3 Bill Stakenas Free Soil, MI 231-425-6913

4 Eric Frahm Frankenmuth, MI 989-652-3552

4 Corby Werth Alpena, MI 989-464-5436

5 Tony Jandernoa Fowler, MI 989-593-22245

5 Scott Lamb Jeddo, MI 810-327-6135

On a sunlit farm, a Holstein’s grace, tales of farm history, find their space.

By the red barn, ‘neath the warm sun’s glow, a picturesque scene, a tranquil show.

Her spots like puzzle pieces, shadows play, black and white beauty, enjoying the day. Her gentle grace, a farmer’s charm, the pride and joy amid the farm.

Photo by Margie Weiss, Frankenmuth, Mich.

Defend & Protect

Controlled, third-party research confirms 25 years of experience.

Feeding DTX to mycotoxin-challenged, lactating cows:

DAILY MILK PRODUCTION INCREASED 2.5 lb/cow for the first 150 DIM

29.3% IMPROVEMENT

Artificial insemination pregnancy rates from Control 36.5% to DTX 47.2%

15.6% IMPROVEMENT

Embryo transfer pregnancy rates from Control 27.6% to DTX 31.9%

GREATER THAN 3.5:1 ROI