Looking for a good deal?
Check out our Last Chance Deals on pages 16 & 17 of the second section!
Last Chance
e a ls
D
7 201 2018
DAIRY ST R “All dairy, all the time”™
Volume 19, No. 20
December 9, 2017
Farmers can Groetsches named MMPA reƟre Producer of the Year
Bedker presents “Exiting the Business Gracefully” at MN Milk Expo By Krista Kuzma
krista.k@dairystar.com
RED WING, Minn. – Many dairy farmers expect the later years in the their life to look similar to the earlier ones, working to take care of their herd of cows and the land where they live However, Callyn Bedker, an attorney at Pluto Legal, PLLC, in Tyler, Minn., said dairy farmers should learn about “Exiting the Business Gracefully,” the name of the seminar she presented Nov. 29 at the 2017 Minnesota Milk Dairy Conference and Expo in Red Wing, Minn. “There’s an assumption that farmers can never retire. It’s not true. You can. I’ve seen it happen,” Bedker said. But retirement requires planning, Bedker said. “You have to get ahead of it because … the transition takes years, not days. To have the best possibility of the next generation succeeding, you really need to give them a heads up and allow the transition process to work, which is primarily done through estate planning,” she said. Bedker said although many people have estate plans, there is a large possibility the legal document is outdated. “Estate plans need to be updated pretty frequently. They live with you because life changes, so if you have a will from 30 years ago, you need to update it and revisit it,” Bedker said. For people needing to establish an estate plan, Bedker suggested nding one that works best for each person’s individual needs. “One size does not t all when it comes to this. Just because you have a friend that something worked out great for, does not mean it will work out great for you,” she said. The goal of an estate plan is to establish what happens to a person’s assets after he or she has died. People making an estate plan usually want to control their assets as long as possible; protect their assets from lawsuit, bankruptcy or divorce; transfer ownership to someone they chose in the timeline they want and how they want it done; provide for their spouse and children; avoid probate; and prevent unintended beneciaries, Bedker said. While establishing an estate plan, Bedker said it is important to know the two values that comprise a business. One part is the operation – the name, trademarks, patents, machinery, equipment, livestock, inventory, etc. The other is the land and buildings – all commercial buildings and any farm acres, etc. The estate plan will also help navigate through concerns brought forth by people on each side of the transaction when transferring a farm. For the sellers, or in many cases the parents, they will want to know where they will get income during retirement, how will they transition the business to their children, how will they protect the business when they are gone and how they will treat non-farm children fairly. “I work with people who love all their kids, but fair is not always equal and equal is not always fair. If you have a farming heir who has been working with you
Turn to RETIRE | Page 5
JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
Steve and Lisa Groetsch observe one of the lactaƟng pens Dec. 4 at their 260-cow dairy near Albany, Minn.
Award recognizes dedication to industry By Jennifer Coyne jenn@dairystar.com
ALBANY, Minn. – In 1989, Steve and Lisa Groetsch married and, soon after, took over Steve’s family’s dairy farm. “We came home early from the honeymoon to milk cows,” said Lisa, laughing. Over the last 28 years, the Groetsches have created a work environment that exemplies their dedication to family, community and the dairy industry. For those reasons, Groetsch Dairy Inc. was recognized as this year’s Minnesota Milk Producers Association’s Producer of the Year during the Minnesota Milk Conference and Expo Nov. 28 in Welch, Minn. “That humility settles in, and you wish every dairy farmer could get that because we all work so hard,” said Lisa of being named recipients of the prestigious honor. “You hope the publicity of [this award] can get people thinking, ‘Wow, farmers do work hard,’ and that idea is carried throughout the entire industry.” Steve and Lisa, and their three grown children – Jennifer, Matthew and Kate – milk 260 cows with four automatic milking systems near Albany, Minn. When the Groetsches rst began dairying, they milked 47 cows in a 40-stall barn that was built in 1902. In September 1997 to February 1998, the Groetsches built a freestall barn and installed a used double-7 herringbone parlor.
JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
Steve and Lisa Groetsch accept the 2017 Minnesota Milk Producers AssociaƟon’s Producer of the Year award during the Minnesota Milk Dairy Conference and Expo Nov. 28 in Welch, Minn. Over the years, herd expansions and building renovations continued until 2012, when the Groetsches installed milking robots. The path towards robots took four years, and began with the need to restructure the manure handling system and the desire to milk three times a day without adding more labor. Previously, the Groetsches were using a small manure pit that was hauled out every 10 to 14 days. With upgrades to the facility, the family was looking to make a system improvement that could handle the use of sand as Turn to GROETSCHES | Page 6
Page 2 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
DAIRY ST R www.dairystar.com
ISSN 020355 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave. Sauk Centre, MN 56378 Phone: (320) 352-6303 Fax: (320) 352-5647 Published by Dairy Star LLC General Manager/Editor Mark Klaphake - mark.k@dairystar.com 320-352-6303 (ofce) 320-248-3196 (cell) 320-352-0062 (home) Ad Composition Nancy Powell 320-352-6303 nancy.p@dairystar.com Amanda Thooft 320-352-6303 amanda.t@dairystar.com Consultant Jerry Jennissen 320-346-2292 Editorial Staff Andrea Borgerding - Associate Editor (320) 352-6303 • andrea.b@dairystar.com Krista Kuzma - Assistant Editor (507) 259-8159 • krista.k@dairystar.com Jennifer Coyne - Assistant Editor (320) 352-6303 • jenn@dairystar.com Ron Johnson (608) 874-4243 ron.j@dairystar.com Ruth Klossner (507) 240-0048 cowlady@centurylink.net Brittany Olson (320) 352-6303 brittany.o@dairystar.com Danielle Nauman (715) 245-6848 danielle.n@dairystar.com Maria Bichler - Copy Editor 320-352-6303 Advertising Sales Main Ofce: 320-352-6303 Fax: 320-352-5647 Deadline is 5 p.m. of the Friday the week before publication Sales Manager - Jeff Weyer (Northern MN, East Central MN) 320-260-8505 (cell) jeff.w@dairystar.com Mark Klaphake (Western MN) 320-352-6303 (ofce) 320-248-3196 (cell) Laura Seljan (National Advertising, SE MN) 507-250-2217 fax: 507-634-4413 laura.s@dairystar.com Jerry Nelson (SW MN, NW Iowa, South Dakota) 605-690-6260 jerry.n@dairystar.com Mike Schafer (Central, South Central MN) 320-894-7825 mike.s@dairystar.com Lori Menke (Eastern Iowa, Southern WI) 563-608-6477 • lori.m@dairystar.com Megan Stuessel (Western Wisconsin) 608-387-1202 megan.s@dairystar.com Deadlines The deadline for news and advertising in the Dairy Star is 5 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Subscriptions One year subscription $35.00, outside the U.S. $110.00. Send check along with mailing address to Dairy Star, 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave., Sauk Centre, MN 56378. Advertising Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an advertisement shall constitute nal acceptance of the advertiser's order. Letters Letters and articles of opinion are welcomed. Letters must be signed and include address and phone number. We reserve the right to edit lengthy letters. The views and opinions expressed by Dairy Star columnists and writers are not necessarily those of the Dairy Star LLC.
The Dairy Star is published semi-monthly by Dairy Star, LLC, 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave., Sauk Centre, MN 56378-1246. Periodicals Postage Paid at Sauk Centre, MN and additional mailing ofces. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Dairy Star, 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave., Sauk Centre, MN 56378-1246.
North America dealers. A glance at what’s inside
Dairy Prole brought to you by your
Cold weather has arrived across much of Dairy Star’s coverage area, and farmers have diligently prepared their dairies for winter. One piece of the farm that may need added attention is the calves. With cold weather, calves are more susceptible to dangerous, life-threatening illnesses, such as Bovine Respiratory Disease. Turn to pages 10-11 in rst section to read how calf raiser Dale Hillukka maintains a healthy herd of calves throughout the winter months and tips to implement on your farm for improved calf management. As dairy farmers are grappling with low milk prices, we turned to Farm Business Management instructors to ask about By Mark Klaphake the best cost saving tips and other ways dairy producers can best Editor make it through a struggling dairy economy. Read about what the instructors had to say and ways to stay positive in the “From our side of the fence” feature on pages 15-16 in rst section. During this holiday season, the Scott and Alice Hamann family, of Albany, Minn., have a lot to be grateful for. This past June, their youngest daughter, Hanna, underwent a successful heart transplant to correct a congenital heart defect. While Hanna continues her recovery on the family’s 65-cow dairy, the Hamanns are counting their blessings and encouraging others to do the same. Read Hanna’s story on pages 4-5 in second section. Glen and Melinda Groth know dairy farming is more than a lifestyle – it must be a business rst. This mentality has helped them be successful in a bleak dairy economy. It also is one reason they received the 2017 Minnesota Farm Bureau Achievement Award. The Groths, who milk 65 cows on their dairy near Ridgeway, Minn., will have the opportunity to compete for the national award in January in Nashville, Tenn. Read about their farming philosophies on pages 3, 7 in second section. There is something unique about dairy farming alongside family, but dairying with your twin is that much more special, according to brothers Kevin and Jacob Henk. The duo recently began milking 100 cows near Birchwood, Wis. To read about the twins’ accomplishments and their hopes for the future of their dairy, turn to pages 2-3 in third section. Two young women who grew up on dairy farms have teamed up to create their own country music duo, Dairy Daughters. Megan Gertken grew up on a 61-cow dairy near Albany, Minn., while her music partner, Shelby Dressel comes from a 1,000-cow dairy in Avon Park, Fla. The two write music together about their life experiences, which includes doing chores on each of their dairies, and perform their songs in Nashville, Tenn. Read more about their venture to follow their country music dreams on pages 18-20 in second section.
Favorite quotes from this issue: “People think goats will just eat anything, and they will, but they have to have quality hay and feed to make milk, just like a dairy cow.” – Brian Anderson, Pages 25-27, Second Section
“If you’re female, you have a connection to the consumer that our spouses, sons and brothers don’t have. The consumer is so disconnected and they’re not listening to scientists, doctors or researchers … they’re listening to other moms.” – Pam Bolin, Pages 12-13, First Section
9:
By the Numbers Pounds of milk increased once the McNallans switched to sand bedding (Pages 18, 20, First Section)
candidates 243: Apprenticeship looking for placement in the
Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship program. (Pages 10-12, Third Section)
THE HAY AND FORAGE TOOL SPECIALISTS Visit your local dealer or our website for details!
SAVE UP TO $2,500 OFF SELECT NEW MOWERS AND MOWER CONDITIONERS Offer Ends: January 19, 2018
Mowers
INVEST IN QUALITY ®
Mower Conditioners
Mergers
Tedders
Wheel Rakes
Rotary Rakes
Harvesting high-quality hay and forage is the focus of KUHN's hay tool innovation. Our core commitment is to help you gain a maximum return on investment by providing products known for quality, performance, reliability, and longevity. KuhnNorthAmerica.com
Van’s Implement Hull, IA
Carroll Implement Lu Verne, IA
Arnold's
Glencoe, MN Kimball, MN Sauk Rapids, MN St. Martin, MN
Northland Farm Systems Owatonna, MN
Lake Henry Implement Paynesville, MN
Lindell Sales & Service
Dave’s Repair Hills, MN
Dairyland Supply
Beck Implement
Isaacson Sales & Service
Miller Sellner
Lafayette, MN
Slayton, MN
Fluegge’s Ag
Woller Equipment
Cannon Falls, MN Elgin, MN
Visit your local KUHN dealer today!
Mora, MN
Sauk Centre, MN
Swanville, MN
UFC Farm Supply Waconia, MN
Jaycox Implement Worthington, MN
Noteboom Implement Corsica, SD
Pfeifer Implement Sioux Falls, SD
Mark's Machinery Yankton, SD
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 3
It’s all inside...
FIRST SECTION
Wolf Lake
Cold weather prompts issues with youngstock
First Section: Pages 10 - 11 Kittson Roseau
Marshall
Second Section: Pages 4 - 5
Beltrami
Becker
Tra ve
rse
Women discuss on-farm technology at business conference Third Section: PagesMarshall 8-9
Douglas Charles Mix
Lake
Moody
McCook Minnehaha
Lincoln
Meeker
Wright Hennepin
McLeod
Renville
Yellow Medicine
Carver Scott
Sibley Lyon
Redwood
Nicollet Brown
Murray
Rock
Nobles
Isanti
Anoka Kandiyohi
Chippewa
Pipestone
nso n
Miner
Brookings
Kellogg
Sand bedding integral to high production at McNallan Farms First Section: Pages 18, 20
Dakota
Rice
Goodhue Wabasha
Cottonwood Watonwan Blue Earth Waseca Steele Dodge Olmsted Jackson
Martin
Faribault
Freeborn
Mower
Ridgeway
Winona
Fillimore
Houston
Groths receive state Farm Bureau Award
Ha
Da
vis
on
Sa nb
or n
Kingsbury
Stearns
Pope
Swift Lac Qui Parle
Deuel
Benton
go
Hamlin
Morrison
isa
Clark
Mille Lacs
Sherburne
Grant Codington
Pine
Douglas
Stevens
First Section: Pages 35, 37
Ch
Roberts
Day
Big Sto Stone
Carlton
Crow Wing
Todd Grant
MMPA celebrates 40th at annual dairy conference, expo
Aitkin
r
Sioux Falls
Wadena
Wilkin
Otter Tail
Welch
Cass
sey
Clay
Washington
en
nom
Mah
Kanabec
Norman
Third Section: Pages 4, 6 - 7
Itasca
Ra m
Polk
Hubbard
Despite challenges, Rybinski Dairy continues to expand their operation
First Section: Pages 1, 6
St. Louis
Red Lake
Hendricks
Groetsches named MMPA Producer of the Year
Koochiching
Pennington
THIRD SECTION
Pages 2- 3 Twin brothers begin dairying career Pages 10 - 11 Tomandl manages dairy while serving as DGA executive director Page 21 Some Udder Stuff Pages 22 - 24 Dairy Calendar Pages 25 - 30 Classieds
Third Section: Page 13
Albany
Hamann recovers from heart transplant
Lake of the Woods
SECOND SECTION
Pages 10 - 11 The “Mielke” Market Weekly Page 12 Dairy markets Page 13 Area hay auction results Pages 14 - 15 Dairying Across America Pages 17 - 18 Duo from Minnesota, Florida farms pursue dream of making country music in Nashville Pages 21, 23 Haugen wraps up 32-year UWExtension career Pages 25 - 27 Goat dairy makes great family project for Andersons Page 29 Holiday baking Pages 30 - 31 Dairy Recipes
Albany
Dairy’s Star Youth: Kate Spadgenske
eu
Third Section: Pages 14 - 15
Menahga
Su
Kids Corner: The Menze Family
Le
Ottertail
Clearwater
Pages 1, 5 Bedker presents “Exiting the Business Gracefully” at MN Milk Expo Pages 8-9 Ag Insider Pages 12 - 13 Becoming a leader in today’s industry Page 22 40 Square Cooperative board approves launch of health plans Page 23 On the Road with Princess Kay Page 26 FSA News & Notes Page 27 The Transition Pen Page 28 The role of forage in stretching your dollar on the dairy Page 29 Visualize your competitive position Page 30 Dear County Agent Guy Page 32 Making Cents of Dairy Page 33 Dairy Good Life Page 34 Veterinary Wisdom Page 36 Women in Jeans: Lynn Hendrickson
Hutchinson
Turner
Bon Yankton Homme
Lincoln Clay
Union
Lyon
Osceola Dickinson Emmet
Sioux
O’Brien
Clay
Palo Alto
Kossuth
Second Section: Pages 3, 7
FROM OUR SIDE OF THE FENCE:
What is one way farmers can make the best of this market? Pages 15-16
Plymouth
Zone 1
Cannon Falls, Minn.
For additional stories from our other zone, log on to www.dairystar.com
Dairy Prole: Josh Sauter Page 39
Give milk production a push GEA’s FRone works around the clock to keep feed at the bunk, maximizing your cows’ production. Could your bunk management routine use a little extra push? GEA’s FRone automated feed pusher provides consistent, high-quality feed available day and night to boost production results from your whole herd. It’s easy to use, charges fast and contains twin batteries for maximum run time. With the help of GEA’s FRone, you can push the limits on your feeding program.
Page 4 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
NEW EQUIPMENT
P R OV I N G YO U CA N ’ T G E T
TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING.
PIERZ
SAUK CENTRE
TRACTORS NH T7.230 Classic, Power Shift, Super Steer .............................................In Stock! NH T4.90 & 100 Utility, Cab & Loader ........In Stock! NH T6.165 Plus, Super Steer, 151 Hrs .........................................Lease Return! NH Boomer 55 ROPS and 55 Cab with loaders ............................................In Stock! NH Boomer 40, Cab, Loader......................In Stock! SKID LOADERS NH L218, L220 & L234 ...............................In Stock! HAY TOOLS NH SpeedRower 220 & 260 .......................In Stock! NH ProCart 819, 1022 & 1225 Rakes .........In Stock! NH Dura-Vee 1225 & 1428 Rakes ..............In Stock! NH ProRotor 3114, 3223 & 3226 Rakes.....In Stock! NH ProTed 3417 .........................................In Stock! NH H7220, H7230 & H7330 Discbines.......In Stock! NH DB313R & DB316R Discbines .............In Stock! BALERS NH RB450, RB460, RB560.........................In Stock! FORAGE NH FP240, Crop Proc., Tandems ...............In Stock! MANURE SPREADERS NH DT2600, M2080, 185, 195’s .................In Stock! BBI Endurance, 18’ & 22’ Litter Spreader ..In Stock! MISCELLANEOUS Messer Attachments and Rock Wagons ....In Stock!
TRACTORS NH T4.100 & 110 Utility, Cab & Loader ......In Stock! NH T6.180 Plus, Super Steer, 4 Rmts ........In Stock! NH Boomer 46D, Cab Heat, A/C, Loader ..In Stock! NH Boomer 40 ROPS, Loader ...................In Stock! SKID LOADERS NH L218, L220 & L234 .............................. In Stock! HAY TOOLS NH SpeedRower 220 & 260 ...................... In Stock! NH Procart 819, 1022, 1225 Rakes............In Stock! NH Dura-Vee 1020, 1225, 1428 Rakes ......In Stock! NH H7230 & DB313R Discbines ................In Stock! NH H6740, 7’ 10” Disc Mower, 3 Point ......In Stock! NH ProRotor 3114 & 3223 Rakes...............In Stock! NH ProTed 3417, 17’ 1” Working Width .....In Stock! BALERS NH RB450, RB460 and RB560...................In Stock! TILLAGE Salford 8208 Plow, 8 Bottom .....................In Stock! Salford 9809, HD Ripper, 9 Shank..............In Stock! Salford I-4124, HD Vert. Tillage, 24’ ...........In Stock! Konskilde 9200, Vertical Tillage..................In Stock! FORAGE NH FR500 Chopper, Dual Drive..................In Stock! MANURE SPREADERS BBI Endurance, 22’ Litter Spreader ...........In Stock! MISCELLANEOUS Messer Attachments and Rock Wagons ....In Stock!
T6.180, T6.165 and T6.155 2WD In Stock
A N E W W O R L D D E M A N D S N E W H O L L A N D. There are no shortcuts to success. That’s why New Holland engineered T6 Series tractors to outperform competitive tractors in every way, so you can achieve higher productivity with less effort. • • • •
USED EQUIPMENT SAUK CENTRE TRACTORS NH T7000 Front PTO/3 Point Kit .................. $6,500 SKID LOADERS NH L230, Cab Heat, A/C, Air Seat ............. .$36,900 HAY TOOLS NH 1475, 14’ Haybine ................................. $13,500 NH H7450, 13’ Disbine, Drawbar Swivel ..... $27,900 NH DB313, 13’ Discbine, Drawbar Swivel, Like New ....................................................Just In! BALERS NH RB460, Dry Hay, 4’x6’, 1070 Bales ....... $32,900 NH BR780A, Twine/Net, Wide P/U .............. $11,900 BR7070, Silage Special, 4’x6’, Clean .......... $26,900 TILLAGE Salford 8214 Plow, 14 Bottom .................... $53,500 FORAGE Krone EC7500 ............................................. $29,500 NH 919A4 CH, 4R-36”, Fits 1915.................. $1,750 PIERZ TRACTORS NH TN75, FWA, Pwr Shuttle, Loader ............Just In! SKID LOADERS NH L230, 850 hrs., Perf Package ................ $43,500 NH L218, Cab Heat, A/C, 2 Speed................Just In!
More powerful engines – faster response from Tier 4B engines delivering 145 to 175 max boosted horsepower Smooth speeds to match your applications – choice of three easy-to-use transmissions Better visibility – unsurpassed view from the Horizon™ cab More comfort and ease – quiet, smooth ride with Comfort Ride™ cab suspension
Learn more about these 95 to 125 PTO horsepower T6 Series tractors at www.newholland.com/na
HAY TOOLS NH H7450, 13’ Discbine, Drawbar Swivel ... $24,500 NH 166 Inverter, Hyd Drive, RH Table Ext ..... $5,700 NH 488, 9’ Sickle, 2015 Model, Nice ............Just In! NH 1431, Nice Consigned ............................. $14,000 NH 1465 Haybine, Hyd. Lift, Stub Guards ...... $9,350 BALERS NH BR750A Net/Twine, Wide P/U ............... $17,800 NH BR780, Auto-Wrap, Bale Ejector, Std. P/U ................................................... $11,900 NH BR780, Net/Twine, Bale Command ...... $17,500 NH BR7090, Net Only, Wide P/U ................ $27,900 NH BR7060, Roto-Cut, Net/Twine, Bale Command ..........................................Just In! Vermeer 505I, 5x5 Bale, Electric Tie, Twine... $3,900 TILLAGE JD 3710, 10 Bottom Plow, Nice, 2013 Model .$29,500 FORAGE NH FP230, 27P HH, 3PN CH, KP................ $39,500 MISCELLANEOUS Hiniker 5610, 15’ RH Discharge Stalk Chopper ..................................................... $9,500
© 2017 CNH Industrial America LLC. All rights reserved. New Holland is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or afÀliates. Equipped For A New World is a trademark in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or afÀliates.
MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS
DE SIGNED FOR NE W HOLL AND EQUIPMENT.
VISIT US TODAY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT NEW HOLLAND MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS.
MASTERGOLD™ ENGINE OIL
SMARTSTART™ BATTERIES
GENUINE NEW HOLLAND FILTERS
MASTERTRAN® ULTRACTION™ HYDRAULIC / TRANSMISSION FLUID
• Longer life with extended drain intervals compared to market generals. Up to 600 hours with Unitek™ Mastergold Engine Oil 10W-40. • Tested and approved by New Holland engineering to provide outstanding performance in heavy-duty diesel engines operating under the most severe conditions. • Superior protection against wear and corrosion. • Synthetic, high-capacity media for high-efÀciency. • Rigorously tested and fully approved by New Holland for the best heavy-duty protection.
EQUIPPED FOR A NEW WORLD™
SAUK CENTRE, MN
320-352-6543 • Hwy. 71 South
PIERZ, MN
320-468-2161 • Hwy. 27 West
• Tough against vibrations thanks to heavier lead components and epoxy-Áooded construction. • Heat- and cold-resistant with Áame-treated container and vertical ribs that hold up in extreme temperatures. • New technology developed for CVT transmissions. • Highest level of water tolerance in the market.
©2016 CNH Industrial America LLC. All rights reserved. New Holland is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or afÀliates. New Holland Construction and CNH Industrial Genuine Parts are trademarks in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or afÀliates. Any trademarks referred to herein, in association with goods and/or services of companies other than CNH Industrial America LLC, are the property of those respective companies. www.newholland.com/na MRC
HIGH STRENGTH STEEL DESIGNED FOR PERFORMANCE AND DURABILITY. Reinke’s single C-Channel Leg combined with Reinke’s wider tower base makes a smarter tower support design.
5(,1.( 675(1*7+
&203(7,7256¶ SAUK CENTRE, MN
320-352-6543 • Hwy. 71 South
PIERZ, MN
320-468-2161 • Hwy. 27 West
Visit your local Reinke dealer today to learn why the Reinke single tower leg is better for your tall crops and provides superior performance.
Compare the Reinke C-Channel leg to our competitors’ angle iron design.
www.reinke.com
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 5
ConƟnued from RETIRE | Page 1 every day for the last 30 years and you leave [the farm] to your four children evenly, he or she is now going to have to ght with his or her siblings on making decisions. When you’re gone, the gloves will come off. It’s important to understand that before you decide your kids are going to share in the business evenly. The more hands you put in that operation, the more decision makers you have and the more complicated it becomes,” Bedker said. The buyers, or the children in the transition, will also have concerns: When will they get ownership over the business? Will they be able to afford a buyout? How will they fund a buyout? How can they expand? How will non-farming siblings view them? Throughout the transition process, Bedker said it is important to have both parents and the children who are taking over the farm in the room. “Having the kids involved will be a key to this. They will need to know a timeline,” Bedker said. “They better understand the consequences of not being able to make payments and what’s realistic to them. Do they even want to do this?” Property can be transferred in various methods. “If you want to transition slowly, you can always gift it,” Bedker said. Gifting has certain stipulations, including a $14,000 limit to one individual in one year and a lifetime cap of $5.49 million that one person can gift. Land can also be sold; however, Bedker warns of capital gains tax with that option. There would be no capital gains tax if land is passed to the next generation after the previous one dies, Bedker said. So transferring at death is also an option. “It’s a better tax savings and less risk [to transfer land at death]. But it’s important to know [about capital gains tax] before you start deeding away land to your kids on a schedule. You have to make sure you’re paying attention to the side effects for your kids as well,” Bedker said. There are also different avenues to carry out the plan – through a will or a trust. A will needs to go through the probate process where a court will make the nal ruling on the assets, a process that can take up to 36 months. Unlike a will, a trust is a private administration that can have specic stipulations on how to handle the assets. “A trust can name someone to make decisions [for the farm] the day after you die. Unfortunately, in a will the person
who is in charge of the will doesn’t have any power until the court says they do. Just because you are the executor on a will doesn’t mean you can walk onto a farm and make decisions the day after someone dies. A trustee can,” Bedker said. Usually, starting a trust takes up to 18 months. Trusts are more expensive to set up, Bedker said. “But what you pay on the front end, you save on the back end because probate is an expensive proceeding,” she said. Along with capital gains and gift tax, people need to be aware of the recapture tax and estate tax. Once a person’s assets exceed $2.1 million, everything will be taxed, Bedker said. One way to increase the value at which a person begins to be taxed is through the Qualied Family Farm Election. If a person owns land at least three years prior to their death, a farming heir who is family member willing to farm it for three years after the death of the previous owner and keeps it classied as homestead, the taxable amount will rise from $2.1 million to $5 million. “But you have to make all the requirements,” Bedker said. “If you don’t, you pay a recapture tax penalty.” An Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT) may also help people who have more than $750,000 in life insurance. “It’s a way to kick your life insurance policies outside of your estate so you don’t pay estate taxes on them when you die,” Bedker said. “There are tremendous amounts of rules with ILITS and you have to make sure you do them right. … They’re not for the faint of heart, but they do work.” With all the estate planning, Bedker also said establishing medical assistance planning is needed. “I meet with a lot of farmers who ask, ‘How do I protect my farm from the nursing home.?’ Unfortunately, it’s hard to,” Bedker said. For basic care, nursing homes charge about $6,000-$8,000 per month, Bedker said. “Long term care insurance can help protect your entire farming operation if one or both of you go into a nursing home or long term care facility,” Bedker said. “It’s going to save you.” Bedker stressed it is important to nd the attorney with whom a farmer feels comfortable. “You shouldn’t be afraid to pick up the phone and talk to your advisor,” Bedker said.
COMPLETE BARN SOLUTIONS WHATEVER YOUR DAIRY NEEDS
MYCOTOXIN IDENTIFICATION
Call one of our nutrition experts at 608-987-3100 to discuss how to identify and mitigate the risks of mycotoxins.
IS E R O T S E IN L N O R U O Y, A D A S R U O H 4 2 N OPE 7 DAYS A WmEpaEreKou.r pr!ices on nce and co e. Shop at your convenie nce products, and mor fe c tri ec el er gh la al G fountains,
SHIP IT CARDS AND CAN ! WE ACCEPT CRED OR DO UR YO T TO YOUR ORDER RIGH
CO., INC. RURAL MFy.G81., PO Box Q 820 N US Hw Freeman, SD 57029 7135 Toll Free 1-800-477925-4174 560 x Fa Ph. 605-925-7135 •
.com
www.RuralMfg
“Since we have installed the KattleGuard Hoof system, we have noticed heel warts almost eliminated plus it has saved us time and hassle from filling hoof baths. I was skeptical at first but after using the system for several months, I would not want to go back to the old bath system. We run around 1,875 cows through it every day and it is holding up. The system has been almost hassle free and the service has been great with the Midwest Livestock service team.” - Kevin VanWinkle, South Dakota
ASY
E The KattleGuard automatic ! TO USE footbath system is the hassle-free way to keeps cows’ feet treated seven days a week. Unlike traditional baths, your cows get fresh cleaning solution applied to all four feet each and every treatment.
Call us to help you make your dairy operation more efficient.
LET’S TALK:
“We have been really pleased with the foot bath. Cows have no problem using the bath because they just walk across the rubber mat. We’ve seen a reduction in warts from 12 down to two per month. This is much safer for the workers.” - Jochum Andringa, South Dakota
www.midwestlivestock.com
PINE ISLAND, MN • 800-233-8937 BEATRICE, NE • 800-342-5657 SIOUX FALLS, SD • 800-705-1447 MENOMONIE, WI • 715-235-5144 OWEN, WI • 715-229-4740
Page 6 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
ConƟnued from GROETSCHES | Page 1
Willmar, MN • 320.231.1470
EXPANDING OR REMODELING YOUR LIVESTOCK OPERATION? LANGE AG SYSTEMS SPECIALIZES IN:
Ŷ NEW FACILITIES
_
NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL
Ŷ RETROFITTING & REMODELING Ŷ TURNKEY PROJECTS Ŷ BARN DESIGN Ŷ INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS
ƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ tĞ KīĞƌ͗ ͻ sĞŶƟůĂƟŽŶ &ĂŶƐ ͻ sĞŶƟůĂƟŽŶ ŽŶƚƌŽůƐ ͻ WŽƐŝƟǀĞ WƌĞƐƐƵƌĞ dƵďĞƐ ͻ ƵƌƚĂŝŶ ^LJƐƚĞŵƐ ͻ DĂƩƌĞƐƐĞƐ ͻ tĂƚĞƌĞƌƐ ͻ ^ƚĂůů ƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ ͻ ,ĞĂĚůŽĐŬƐ ͻ DŝƐƟŶŐ ^LJƐƚĞŵƐ
Lange Ag Systems is proud to offer Grain Bags, Silage Bags & Bunker Covers from Up North Plastics and Feed Fresh Silage Covers & Custom Size Bunker Covers from Raven!
t ^ >> E t Θ h^ 'ͳ ' Θ < >>z Zz E '' Z^
www.LangeAgSystems.com
FOR SALE:
200 good quality Holstein heifers, 6-8 months bred, for sale at all times, shots & trucking included. Call 320-352-6303 to place your classied or mail to: Dairy Star, 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave., Sauk Centre, MN 56378.
MILLER CATTLE 612-201-1613
NOW IS THE TIME TO UPDATE YOUR UNLOADER! We install new augers, blowers, collector rings, gear boxes, electric motors.
CALL NOW!
PHOTO COURTESY OF MIDWEST DAIRY ASSOCIATION
The Groetsches – (front, from leŌ) Steve and Lisa; (back, from leŌ) MaƩhew, Jennifer and Kate – dairy farm in Stearns County near Albany, Minn. The family was recently recognized as this year’s Minnesota Milk Producers AssociaƟon’s Producer of the Year. bedding. “Honestly, at the time, I would have been happy if we were milking 60 cows in a decent barn. But when we started, the barn was old and we had the chance to morph the dairy into what we thought it could be,” Steve said. “For the last 28 years, it’s been nose to the grind [stone]. This is where we wanted to be.”
“They always say to surround yourself with good people – I feel like we’ve done that.” ȃ STEVE GROETSCH, DAIRY FARMER
Now, Steve and Lisa oversee the farm with the help of three full-time employees, including Lisa’s brother, Doug Overman. “Doug raises all of our heifers from 11 months old until two months prior to calving,” Lisa said. “We’ve been doing that for a number of years.” Additionally, Lisa’s sister, Trish Wesen, does a portion of the farm’s bookwork and payroll. “I’ve always wanted someone here, that if something were to happen
and I couldn’t be here, the nances could still keep running. To me, that’s very important,” Lisa said. While the dairy is managed on a daily basis by family and a small group of employees, the Groetsches realize part of their farming success is due in part to the industry representatives they work with. The farm’s nutritionist, veterinarian and other professionals have aided in building the dairy into what it is today, Steve said. “With their knowledge and experiences, they’ve helped guide us through some of these changes,” he said. “They always say to surround yourself with good people – I feel like we’ve done that.” With the support from industry representatives, family and dairy farming friends, Steve and Lisa have created the working environment and lifestyle they have always hoped for. And, with their children considering a career in the industry, the Groetsches hope a fourth generation may also create a livelihood surrounding the dairy. “The decisions Steve and I used to make while driving now need to be made around the kitchen table when our children are home,” Lisa said. “We need to ask ourselves what does Turn to GROETSCHES | Page 7
Thinking about building a new silo? Ask the silo specialists! !
WE NOW SELL, INSTALL AND SERVICE
NEW
• Belt Conveyors • Belt Feeders • Hydraulic manure pumps The Best Service Crews, The Best Replacement Parts, The Best Service... That’s The Osakis Silo Advantage To You!!!
Call Anytime
320-808-3936 300 E Main St., Osakis, MN
24 Hours 7 Days A Week
Visit us online at www.osakissilo.com
JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
Steve Groetsch nishes cleaning equipment for winter storage on the aŌernoon of Dec. 4.
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 7
ConƟnued from GROETSCHES | Page 6
Express Pressure Washers, Inc. 15880 SE 74th Ave. Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 507-583-2703
Check out our Used Equipment at
www.expresspressurewashers.com PARTS * ACCESSORIES * SOAP REPAIR * ON-SITE SERVICE
ALL OUR MACHINES CARRY OUR 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE
JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
Lisa Groetsch reviews data from the farm’s milking robots. The Groetsches milk their herd with four robots, which they installed in 2012. the year hold for our dairy, and use the word ‘our’ in a different way.” While there is no transition plan set in stone, that discussion will soon become more relevant as Jennifer nishes veterinary school and Kate completes her college education. Currently, Matthew is a full-time carpenter, but helps on the farm after work and on weekends. “There’s a pendulum swinging and the kids want to be there. It’s scary and exciting at the same time,” Lisa said. Steve agreed. “We want to do it right so they have what they need for their future,” he said. As the Groetsches prepare for whatever may come of the dairy’s
future, they are content in knowing the work they have done as farmers has guided them in the right direction. “This was always a goal of mine, to be where we are today,” Steve said. “I love [dairy farming] and we have always tried to do the best we can – to provide for our children, to be good neighbors and a good presence in the community for all of dairy and agriculture.” With tears in her eyes, Lisa agreed. “Everything that we worked for, everything we’ve done, has mattered,” she said. For years to come, the producer of the year award will remain a humble reminder of the commitment the Groetsches have for their family, community and the dairy industry.
Open Monday to Friday 8:00 to 5:00 Saturday 8:30 to 12:00 / Fax: 507-583-2060 Email: service@expresspressurewashers.com Join us on Facebook!
CIH 8920, 2WD, 2300 hrs. $71,000
CIH 7240 Magnum, 2350 hrs - $71,000
CIH 7230, 3500 hrs., new rubber, nice - $71,000
‘96 CIH 7220, 2WD, 540/1000 PTO, 6700 hrs, nice
IH 3688, 3900 hrs. $21,000
IH 3088, cab, nice, 5300 hrs. $17,500
IH 1086, new motor, new TA, nice - $19,500
CIH 9370, 4200 hrs., PS $77,000
ALL SIZES OF SNOWBLOWERS AVAILABLE
$42,000
If you’re a: Young dairy professional Past 4-H or FFA member Dairy youth mentor National Dairy Shrine scholarship winner Dairy producer
You could be a: National Dairy Shrine member Networking extraordinaire Future National Dairy Hall of Fame member Dairy historian National Dairy Shrine scholarship reviewer Dairy industry leader
USED TRACTORS
CIH MX200, 2WD........................................$62,000 CIH 7230, 2WD, 4300 hrs ...........................$53,000 CIH 7220, 2WD, 2300 hrs, 18.4x42 ............$71,000 CIH 7210 Magnum, FWA, 5700 hrs ............$56,000 CIH 7150, FWA, new motor.........................$58,000 CIH 5240 Maxxum, FWA w/loader ..............$48,000 IH 5288, 2WD, 540/1000 pto, sharp ...........$22,000 IH 5088, 2WD, new motor, nice ..................$19,000 IH 766, new motor, cab ...............................$12,500 IH 856 ........................................................$13,000 Allis Chalmers 8070, restored, new motor & tires, 540-1000 pto, FWA ......................$36,000 JD 4630 ......................................................$15,000
TILLAGE
The present. Where your past and future collide. National Dairy Shrine celebrates the past, is committed to your future and helps open doors. Give back to the industry you love and open the door to your future with a lifetime membership. Become a member — visit dairyshrine.org/membership.php
PO Box 725 | Denmark, WI 54208 Phone: 920-863-6333 | Email: info@dairyshrine.org
CIH Tigermate II, 28’ ...................................$18,000 CIH 6750 disc ripper ...................................$12,500 CIH 4800, 28’ & 26’ ......................................$8,500 CIH 4800, 28’ w/IH mulcher..........................$8,500 CIH 4300, 36’ ..............................................$10,500 CIH 4300, 30’ ................................................$9,500 CIH 3950, 25’, nice shape ...........................$17,500 CIH 530B ripper w/lead shanks ...................$17,000 CIH 496 21’ cushion disc ...................................Call CIH 496 cushion gang w/mulcher ...............$13,500 CIH 496, 25’ cushion gang, no mulcher ......$11,000
CIH 3900 19’ cushion gang disc ................$13,500 White 435, 11 shank .....................................$8,500 JD 714, 11 shank ..........................................$9,500 JD 712, 11 shank disc chisel ........................$8,500 Wilrich 24’ 3400 field cultivator ....................$5,500
HAYING & FORAGE EQUIP.
Vermeer R2800, 28’ basket rake .................$21,500 Sitrex QR12 rake ...............................................New NH 1465 haybine ..........................................$9,500 Many sizes of rakes available CIH 600 blower .............................................$3,500
GRAVITY BOXES
VARIOUS SIZES OF GRAVITY BOXES ON HAND Demco 550 .................................................$11,500 4) Demco 365 .................................... $4,500-5,500 Unverferth 430 ..............................................$9,500 All sizes of used Demco gravity boxes avail.
MISCELLANEOUS
Midsota 5510 rock trailers ......................... In Stock Various sizes of New Agrotrend snowblowers ...Call JD 8300 grain drill w/grass & press wheels .................................... $7,000
NEW MANDAKO LAND ROLLERS IN STOCK
FARM OYL PRODUCTS AVAILABLE
GREENWALD FARM CENTER Greenwald, MN • 320-987-3177
WWW.GREENWALDFARMCENTER.COM
More milk processing capacity needed Page 8 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
For most dairy farmers, the milk check hasn’t stress. Minnesota Department of Agriculture Director been something to brag about. “Prices haven’t been of Mental Health Outreach Ted Matthews said the terrible, but they haven’t been good for the last two stressors placed upon agriculture right now are a serious problem. In particular, Matthews to three years. It feels terrible out there.” is worried about the future. “Farmers are Milk processing capacity is very tight. Ag Insider losing money, and it’s incredibly difcult Minnesota Milk Producers Association for them to just break even.” Matthews Executive Director Lucas Sjostrom is encouraging processors to consider sees this as a systematic problem. “The adding capacity. “If our co-ops and other depression gets deeper and stronger as private processors are going to expand, time goes on. No one knows what the they need to do it when they see better future will bring. Many industries in returns for their end-product. On the agriculture are making money, but they’re Midwest Dairy (Association) side, we’re making money off farmers who are losing trying to increase demand, create more money.” As a resource, MDA will be products and research there. I’m excited hosting a series of “Supporting Farmers about the things coming forward. We in Stressful Times” workshops starting can’t just add processing capacity with in January. Unfortunately, Matthews said By Don Wick no nal market to sell to.” The Minnesota there aren’t many resources for those Columnist Dairy Expo and Trade Show was held in supporting farmers. “People who work Red Wing, Minn. with farmers tend to be helpers and they have stress of their own. Because of this, helpers need Dairy policy priorities to learn techniques to take care of themselves, as well. Large milk supplies have kept Class III prices in If we can’t take care of ourselves, we’re not going to the $14 to $15 territory. Minnesota Milk Producers be very good at taking care of other people.” Association President Dave Buck said the supply situation is a concern. “Three to four years ago, we New FSA state director focused on service didn’t see this coming. Now, it’s not good for the According to Minnesota Farm Service Agency industry as a whole either. It paralyzes everyone. You State Executive Director Joe Martin, the biggest can’t change where you market your milk. We need to challenge for Minnesota farmers right now continues get something done in that area. Hopefully, that will to be the price. “Some folks are at breakeven levels. happen in the future.” At the Minnesota Dairy Expo, Some are making a little bit. Some are losing. It’s policy issues got attention. “We don’t have a lot of about getting a good price and getting farmers to be control over prices. We can give our input on the farm protable.” With the new farm bill, Martin said the bill, which obviously needs some changes. We are big challenge is implementation. “As FSA, we’ll work pushing that issue very hard. Labor is getting to be a with congressional ofces as they make requests. We bigger issue. Processing capacity is what’s hindering stand ready to implement whatever policy changes our growth right now. That’s what we’ve been looking they make in the upcoming farm bill.” at.” U.S. lays out NAFTA priorities Coping with stress on the farm The U.S. Trade Representative’s ofce has In a tough economy, farmers experience additional released its negotiating objectives for the North
24/7 Service for Your Farm We understand that you need experienced, reliable help from a trustworthy source and equipment that works as hard as you do. We’re looking out for you, your cows, and your operation with products, technology, people and resources. All day. Every day.
American Free Trade Agreement negotiations. For agriculture, the trade ofce wants to eliminate nontariff barriers on products, like grain. The U.S. also wants to eliminate remaining Canadian tariffs on imports of U.S. dairy products and abolish programs that unfairly discriminate or undercut world prices. The U.S. is also seeking specic commitments on products developed with agricultural biotechnology. Latest NAFTA negotiations yielded few results After ve days of trade talks, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer offered a pessimistic view for the North American Free Trade Agreement. Lighthizer said Canada and Mexico have refused to “seriously engage” in the trade talks. In a statement, Lighthizer urged his counterparts to come to the table “in a serious way” so meaningful progress can be made before the end of the year. Roberts upset by Trump trade policy The Trump Administration’s threat to withdraw from the North American Free Trade Agreement has the attention of U.S. agriculture. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts told the Red River Farm Network he is concerned about this rhetoric. “Bob Lighthizer is a good man. He’s the U.S. trade representative who worked for (former Kansas Senator) Bob Dole for 15 years; he’s a friend,” said Roberts. “Honest to goodness, if we start to terminate NAFTA, those countries are seeking other markets right now, and we’re losing market share. If we go country by country and put in these policy objectives, we’re not going to end up anywhere. It worries me we will lose the reliable supplier status that we’ve worked so hard to get. I have some problems with this administration and their trade policy.” Milk production increase October milk production totaled 16.7 billion pounds in the 23 major dairy producing states. That’s up 1.5 percent from October of 2016. In Minnesota, Turn to AG INSIDER | Page 9
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 9
ConƟnued from AG INSIDER | Page 8 milk cow numbers declined 4,000 head, but milk production increased nearly 3 percent. South Dakota milk output rose 3.7 percent. Wisconsin was up 2.3 percent and California was down 1.5 percent. NFO supports supply management The Minnesota National Farmers Organization State Convention was held in New Ulm, Minn. During the resolutions process, the group put its support behind a dairy supply management concept that includes a two-tier milk pricing system. A health insurance option for farmers, by farmers Rising health insurance premiums are a concern for farmers. As a result, 40 Square Cooperative was formed to provide Minnesota farm families with the ability to manage their own health care. When farmers are making health insurance decisions, Project Manager Char Vrieze said there’s a factor of trust. “Most are happy there’s another option out there this year. A lot of (insurance) carriers are narrowing their networks. Farmers understand this is going to be a co-op and a health plan they’re going to own and have feedback on. If premiums go up or down, they’ll know why. We’re a transparent entity.” New hire at AgriGrowth Minnesota AgriGrowth has hired
Gary Kay as its director of government and member relations. Most recently, Kay was a research consultant for the Minnesota House of Representatives. Freking, Sanderson take S.D. ag department jobs The South Dakota Department of Agriculture has named Jeremy Freking as its new outreach and operations director and Bryan Sanderson as the business development director. Most recently, Freking was the executive director of the South Dakota Soybean Growers Association and the South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council. Sanderson previously worked for Cargill, Land O’Lakes, Purina and managed a feedlot. Trivia challenge Cheez Whiz is the name of the Kraft processed cheese sauce. That answers our last trivia question. For this week, how many bones are found in the human body? We’ll have the answer in the next edition of Dairy Star. Don Wick is owner/broadcaster for the Red River Farm Network, based in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Wick has been recognized as the National Farm Broadcaster of the Year and served as president of the National Association of Farm Broadcasting. Don and his wife, Kolleen, have two adult sons, Tony and Sam, and ve grandchildren, Aiden, Piper, Adrienne, Aurora and Sterling.
Dairy Comp 305... “It makes herd checks and other scheduled tasks very simple.” How long have you been using Dairy Comp 305? How long have you been using Dairy Comp 305? We have been using it for 8-1/2 years. Why did you choose to use Dairy Comp 305 on your operation? Ease of use, being able to get great service over the phone and allowing them to make changes to the program by logging onto my computer through team viewer has really helped. It only takes the tester a few moments to download all of the breedings, freshenings, culls and other events. How has using Dairy Comp 305 been beneÀcial to your dairy? The people we work with can log on at any time to see how the herd is performing and make changes as needed. It makes herd checks and other scheduled tasks very simple. It allows us to look at how different protocols have or haven’t worked and guide us in future responses. It sure beats using a notebook. Why do you test with DHIA? Record keeping. Knowing what SCC and components are doing individually. Seeing how we compare with other herds. Getting monthly words of wisdom when Ron Lang tests our cows!!
Corey Hoffman, North-Creek Dairy ChatÀeld, Minn. • 396 cows Minnesota Dairy Herd Improvement Association 307 Brighton Avenue South Buffalo, MN 55313 1.800.827.3442 www.mndhia.org
N10828 Cty Hwy O | Greenwood, WI 715.267.1416 | www.greenwoodsilo.com Email: sales@greenwoodsilo.com
SEALED SILO SERVICES: BOTTOM UNLOADERS: • CONSTRUCTION • MAINTENANCE • PRESSURE CHECKING • RESEALING • REPLACEMENT ROOFS
• GREENLINE UNLOADERS D-SERIES (FORAGE) B-SERIES (SNAPLAGE & GRAIN) • USED UNLOADERS • UNLOADER PARTS • FULLY EQUIPPED SERVICE CREW
We have something for everyone on your list!
SUPERIOR FEED VALUE THROUGH SEALED SILOS We are not affiliated with A.O. Smith Harvestore®, E.S.P.C. or C.S.T.
with KLC Roasted Soybeans t nutritionis Ask your sted soybeans, roa for KLC le for substitutes. don’t sett
Quality
Consistency
Our soybeans have what your dairy ration needs: • Energy • Protein • Amino Acids • Bypass Protein
KLC Farms Roasting, Inc. 1-877-738-2326 877 738 232 Visit www.roastedbeans.com
New Nuhn Lagoon Crawler, GPS ready - IN STOCK
New Houle 5300 tanker brakes, in-tank agitation, hi/lo - IN STOCK
New Houle Agi-Lagoon pumps, 42’ & 52’ models - IN STOCK
New Nuhn 8” x 48’ Header Pump, PTO, Wireless Remote Assy - $36,500
New Artex SB600 spreader, Lime Package, Bull Pull Hitch - $49,100
New Bazooka Farmstar 700 Hose Reel w/1 mile of 6” AA Hose - IN STOCK
Durand, WI
715-672-4263 Whitehall, WI
715-538-1495
www.komrosales.com
Page 10 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
Sprayers Plus
A closer look
Ye ar End Prices - SAVE!
DEMCO SPRAYERS New 200 gal. 3 pt. 30’. boom 300 gal. 3 pt. 45’ or 60’, hyd. fold boom 400 gal. 3 pt. 60’ hyd. fold boom 1050 gal. pull 60’ front fold boom, hyd. pump Eductor - Raven, 13.6x38 tires For Sale: 40-60 UTV sprayers, 12’-21’ booms 60’ 3 pt. boom Pumps, sprayer, parts • Raven & Micro-Trak Martin & Yetter planter attachments
Also carry Strong Hold Livestock Equipment Dave Eibey 563-920-2546
1597 220th St. Manchester, IA
Chris Eibey 563-920-8737
Since 1988
Buyers & Feeders of damaged corn, soybeans, screenings, wet, hot, dry, ďŹ re and silo corn. Trucks available. Z BAR FEED YARDS - -
DREAMING OF A NEW SHED OR SHOP? We’ve got you covered! ‘Ž‡ ‘” •–—† –›’‡ Č ÂƒÂ…ÂŠÂ‹Â?‡ ‘” ‹˜‡•–‘…Â? ƒ”Â?• Š‘’• ‘” ƒ”ƒ‰‡• Č ÂƒÂ› ƒ”Â?• Č ÂƒÂ”Â‡ÂŠÂ‘Â—Â•Â‡Â•
ASK ABOUT OUR SPECIAL PRICING!
3XUFKDVHV 6XEMHFW WR <HDU (QG 'LYLGHQG 'LYLGHQG ZDV
7\OHU /XPEHU &RPSDQ\ Minnesota’s Largest Lumber Cooperative PHONE 507-247-5546 • FAX 507-247-5548
TYLER, MINNESOTA www.tylerlumbercompany.com
Monitoring herd health, while detecting cows in heat...
by Jennifer Coyne
Industry news addressed with help from your neighbors
Cold weather prompts issues with youngstock
Prevention, early detection aid in healthy calves WOLF LAKE, Minn. – Calves are the foundation of any dairy herd and their health plays a pivotal role in the farm’s prosperity. Among the day-today challenges of raising calves, cold weather can be an additional hindrance in physical growth, while also affecting overall animal MARK KLAPHAKE/DAIRY STAR health and longevity. During this time – Dale Hillukka raises nearly 400 calves each year for two dairy farms near as the temperatures drop Wolf Lake, Minn. Following strict protocols, Hillukka maintains healthy calves and weather conditions throughout the enĆ&#x;re year. change – calves’ developing immune systems are weakened, causing performance from birth through lactation, farmers the young animals to become more susceptible to should focus on preventative measures of calf dangerous, life-threatening illnesses, such as Bovine management. Respiratory Disease (BRD). Dale Hillukka raises nearly 400 calves each year, “BRD is a disease complex caused by bacterial for two dairy farms, on his property near Wolf Lake, and viral pathogens. But, it’s usually a combination Minn. of many different factors, such as pathogens invading Through strict management protocols, including the bovine respiratory tract, environmental conditions prevention and early treatment, Hillukka maintains a and stressors. It is typically identiďƒžed when calves death loss of less than 2 percent year-round. are transitioning off of their dam’s immune system “They say an ounce of prevention is better than and developing their active immune system,â€? said a pound of cure, but an ounce of cure is 16 times Sarah Mills-Lloyd, DVM, University of Wisconsin- better than a pound of treatment,â€? Hillukka said. “I Extension. really pride myself in raising healthy calves for those Calves at 21 days of age are most susceptible to farmers.â€? the disease, which most commonly infects the lower Hillukka’s management begins on the dairy respiratory tract in the form of pneumonia. farms, with the dry cow protocols and working with Every year, BRD is the cause of death for 12.4 the farms’ nutritionist. percent of pre-weaned calves and the second-leading “I work with the same nutritionist for the calves as cause of death in calves of all age groups, according to the farmers do with for the remainder of their herd,â€? the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Hillukka said. “We are always ďƒžne tuning the dry cow “There are considerable economic impacts,â€? program, adding minerals to the diet and getting the Mills-Lloyd said. “Directly, the cost of treatments, proper vaccinations for the cow so the calf has a good time and labor are great. Indirectly, calves that have immune system to start with.â€? contracted pneumonia tend to have lower daily gain. Once the calf is born, the ďƒžrst 12 hours are critical Some research suggests they are not as strong as their to provide the ďƒžrst serving of colostrum, as well as milking herdmates and are more apt to depart from clean and dry bedding. the herd before second calving.â€? Turn to CALF CARE | Page 11 To combat these detrimental effects and maintain
FREE On-Farm Demo- call us today!
HEALTH & FERTILITY MONITORING
“Previously our heat detection rate was 55%, 5%, since installing the MooMonitor+ collars as we are at 75% - that’s huge! The system has significantly reduced labor. Recently I gott a health alert on two cows and the vet treated them. It was great the system picked that up.� Brian Barlass, Wisconsin
CALL US NOW ON 651-380-2856 Milker Medic 37568 733rd St. Lake City MN 55401
MARK KLAPHAKE/DAIRY STAR
Hillukka and his son, Gavin, feed calves on Dec. 3. Each calf receives a boĆŠle twice a day unĆ&#x;l they are weaned.
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 11
ConƟnued from CALF CARE | Page 10 “All of those factors build up to help support that immune system,” Minnie Ward said. “If you have a strong immune system, you can help ght off those different variables, like BRD.” Ward and her husband, Randy, raise weaned calves for a 600-cow dairy farm near St. Charles, Minn. Both calf raisers spend time carefully monitoring the calves during feeding times, as well as when bedding is changed. “Calves give us signs and it’s up to us to pick up on those clues,” Ward said. Visible symptoms that the calf has contracted BRD may include mucus discharge through the nose and eyes, coughing or difculty breathing. “Depending if the infection is viral or bacterial, symptoms may differ or be evident,” said Mills-Lloyd. Hillukka bottle feeds the calves until the point of weaning. From there, the calves are housed in small groups. He evaluates each calf four times a day – during morning and evening feedings, bedding and also a routine check around midday. “When I’m around the calves, if I notice one that seems lazy, not eager to get up or doesn’t drink the whole bottle, among other considerations, I immediately record their symptoms and treat accordingly,” Hillukka said.
MARK KLAPHAKE/DAIRY STAR
Dale Hillukka lls a wagon of boƩles with milk. Hillukka carefully preps the milk replacer to ensure it maintains nutrients the calves need. Ward agreed. “Calves associate time and people with certain events, which is why bedding and feeding are good times to evaluate your calves. They should be attentive when they see you,” she said. While each farm may have their own method of scoring a calf, record keeping is essential to track progress and notice
patterns of the disease within the young herd. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms are visible, the infection is often already working itself through the immune system. Calves at 3-5 weeks of age are most susceptible to BRD or other infections, however, older calves, up to 10 weeks old, also are at a greater chance
of becoming ill. This is because of critical life changes that are occurring at these moments. “There are several environmental factors that can depress an immune system – weaning, vaccinating, changes in feed, outside temperature and humidity, as well as inadequate ventilation…,” Mills-Lloyd said.
Within Hillukka’s barn, the individual pens are on top of a dirt oor and the side curtains are rarely closed throughout the year to ensure proper airow through the facility. Once the calves are weaned, they are placed into small groups. “I don’t overcrowd calves; I’m asking for trouble when I overload pens,” said Hillukka, who groups calves in sets of ve or six. If the environment is not closely monitored, BRD can transfer from calf to calf and create long-term effects in the herd. To prevent BRD and other diseases, especially during the cold, winter months, dairy farmers should provide adequate, high quality colostrum during the rst 24 hours of life, maintain energy levels through feed intake and calf jackets, provide a clean, comfortable and dry bedding source, as well as maintaining consistency in overall calf management. “Focus your efforts on keeping a healthy environment for calves,” Hillukka said. “It takes time to practice prevention and early intervention, but you’re too busy to take care of really sick calves.” Mills-Lloyd agreed. “Winter time is difcult for us to maintain our motivation, but we have to continue to strive for the best care possible for the future foundation of our herds,” she said.
• Cleaning Drain Tiles, Manure Systems, Sewers, Frozen Lines • Reasonably Priced • 24 hour Service CALL FOR PRICING
Noah VanBeck 320-241-3087 (Cell)
Tell the advertisers you saw their ad in the Dairy Star!
FEED BUNKS
Super High Capacity Fence Line Bunk
Sunflower 4511-15
• 38” wide, 34-1/2” high on back side • 24” high on front side • 20” deep feed trough • 6” feed saver lip
AL’S
• Deep Feeding Capacity • Long Service Life & Cattle Safe • Available in 12”, 14”and 16” depths
CONCRETE PRODUCTS 1-800-982-9263
Serving Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin Since 1965
www.alsconcreteproducts.com
White 9222 12R planter Special Price
Villard, MN • (888) 554-3111
Fence Line Feed Bunk
H- Feed Bunk
MF 1754L - SAVE BIG
Villard Implement Co.
Pictured with optional guard rail post mounted on the inside of the bunk or can also be placed outside.
• Fence line feed bunk with slanted back • 15” feed trough depth • 24” high front side (Also available in 18-1/2” height for smaller cattle)
Call for details
Call for details
Call for details
Call for details
MF 8735
MF 2705 E
MF 7724
AGCO DT-205B - $95,000
Gehl 5640E, 2 spd. $24,500
Gehl V-400, low hours $49,500 TRACTORS MF GC2400 w/60” deck ................................$7,000 MF GC1705 w/60” deck ................................ Just In MF 8650 CVT ............................................ Coming In MF 8650 ........................................................$120,000 MF 7497 .......................................................... $95,000 MF 7624, lease return.................................... Just In MF 7618 ..................................................... Coming In MF 7616 ..................................................... Coming In MF 7614 ..................................................... Coming In MF 6614 CVT w/ldr...............................................Call MF 5609 w/ldr............................................... $57,500
MF 5450 w/ldr............................................... $52,500 MF 1085 w/cab ................................................$7,500 AGCO DT-240A, low hours................... Coming In AGCO DT-220 .......................................... Coming In AGCO DT-200A ............................................. $69,500 AGCO RT-150A CVT w/ldr. ..............................$54,500 AGCO RT-150 w/ldr. ............................... Coming In IH M Farmall......................................................$1,950 White 6195 ................................................Coming in White 6144, FWA ......................................... $36,000 JD 4630....................................................... Coming In U-Moline, runs good .....................................$1,250 PLANTERS White 9936-22 track planter ..............................Just In White 9108, low acres ..................................Coming In White 8222 12 row w/liquid ..............................Just In White 6108 8 row w/dry fert......................Coming In White 6100 12 row ...............................................$5,900 White 5100 8 row 30” ..........................................$3,500 JD 7200, 6 row, conser planter..................Coming In Case IH 900, 6 row w/dry fert., cross auger .$3,000 Kinze 3700, 24 row 30”..............................................Call White 6180, 16 row .............................................$7,500 White 8524-22 CFS planter .................................. Coming In SKID STEERS & SPREADERS Gehl 7810E ................................................................. $27,000 Gehl 4640E .................................................................... Just In Gehl RT-175 track loader.......................................... Just In Gehl R220 .............................................................. Coming In Gehl R190 ...................................................................... Just In
Gehl 6640E, cab/heat ............................................. $24,500 Gehl 4835 .............................................................. Coming In Gehl V-330, 300 hrs. ................................................... Just In Bobcat S650............................................................... $21,500 Meyers 7400 spreader .............................................. Just In MISC. ITEMS JD 2700 ripper .......................................................... $19,500 JD 2700 5-bottom ......................................................$4,950 Case IH 496, 21’ disc ................................................ $10,000 Case 700, 8 bottom ............................................ Coming In IH 490, 32’ ...................................................................... Just In Sunflower 7200-28 soil cond. ................................. Just In Sunflower 4610-9 ripper .......................................... Just In Sunflower 4610 ripper ...................................... Coming In Sunflower 4511-13 disc chisel ....................... Coming In Sunflower 1435-26 disc ............................................ Just In Krause 4900, 30’ disc..................................................$9,500 Soil Pro Wilrich 9 shank .................................... Coming In Gehl 700, 14 wheel rake ...........................................$6,500 Badger 950 forage box .............................................$2,500 MF 2956A baler, carryover.................................. Save Big! MF 2270XD ........................................................... Coming In MF 2170XD baler ...................................................$100,000 MF 1375 mower cond ............................................ $17,500 NH 1475 mower cond. ..............................................$8,500 NH 499 ............................................................................$2,750 NH 340 3x3, 2015, only 4500 bales .............. Coming in Vermeer 605M baler ............................................... $15,000 NI 5512 ........................................................................... Just In Demco 1050 grain cart, carryover ...........................Save!
Page 12 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
Becoming a leader in today’s industry Panelists share successes, challenges of role By Jennifer Coyne jenn@dairystar.com
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – In the dairy industry’s everchanging environment, women are serving in larger roles than ever before, presented with leadership opportunities on their farm, within their cooperative boards and in other professional capacities. “Women don’t always have to be there, but sometimes they need to be there,” said Barb Liebenstein of the role females play in the agricultural industry. Liebenstein, who serves as chairwoman of the Minnesota division of the Midwest Dairy Association, Pam Bolin and Kate McAndrews spoke to a room-full of women during their presentation, “Leading in an Industry Dominated by Men,” at the Central Plains Dairy Expo’s Women’s Business Conference Nov. 14 in Sioux Falls, S.D. Together, the three women spoke of their own journey through leadership
JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
Kate McAndrews (center) shares her experiences as a leader in the dairy industry to women at the Central Plains Dairy Expo’s Women’s Business Conference Nov. 14 in Sioux Falls, S.D. McAndrews was joined by Barb Liebenstein (leŌ) and Pam Bolin.
and encouraged others to step up and be present in today’s industry. Women’s unique responsibility to lead Leadership comes in many different forms, and Bolin encouraged women to nd the form that best ts them. In doing so, women have the opportunity to excel
in their newfound role. “We’re in such a small industry that we have to nd ways, as females, to be a part of this leadership team,” Bolin said. “There’s not as much difference between genders as what a person is taught, and our attitude towards others begins with respect.” Bolin dairy farms with her husband, Dave, near
Clarksville, Iowa. She is two years out of serving 26 years on the Swiss Valley Farms Cooperative Board. In Bolin’s various roles within her cooperative, most recently retiring as chairperson, she helped develop leaders out of all dairy farmers. “Before any meeting ends, I ask that everyone has shared
their thoughts. There are a lot of good ideas, but certain personalities take over,” Bolin said. “Some people who hardly talk are the smartest people in the room.” Liebenstein agreed. “There’s a lot to it, whether you lead from the front of the room or from the side,” she said. Either through social media or in person, women have the unique ability to be leaders in the industry and make a connection with today’s consumers. “Women think differently and communicate differently than men,” said Liebenstein, who milks 400 cows with her husband, Paul, near Dundas, Minn. Bolin agreed. “If you’re a female, you have a connection to the consumer that our spouses, sons and brothers don’t have,” she said. “The consumer is so disconnected and they’re not listening to scientists, doctors or researchers … they’re listening to other moms.” However, creating a platform that guides others in making decisions is difcult, whether it is directed towards Turn to LEADER | Page 13
Byron Does It Again! 3 Grand Champions at the 2017 Forage Analysis Superbowl • Grand Champion Haylage • Grand Champion Corn Silage
Great Forage, Healthy Cows – See your local Byron Dealer so you can have great forage too! Rick Tamm @ 320-267-5021 or Brad DeBauche @ 920-660-7974
- Both of these classes had their highest amount of entries ever!
• Grand Champion Organic Hay • And 33 Finalists out of 100 possible (and with 82 total entries!) One competitor had over 500 entries with only 22 Finalists and another had well over 200 entries and only 5 Finalists! Burkholder Seeds
For more info or dealer Claremont, MN inquiries - please call: Dwight
Rick Tamm
NW Territory Manager
320-267-5021 Brad DeBauche
NC Territory Manager
920-660-7974 Larry Hawkins 608-516-0101
507-279-0292 Justin 507-456-0006
Gerard Becker
Long Prairie, MN (320) 290-9261
Hy View Feeds 507-493-5564 Mabel, MN
Valley View Ag Russ Funke Dyersville, IA (563) 590-6939
Schueler Farms
Greenwald Elevator
Sherman Schueler 330-987-3159 Willmar, MN John Dockendorf (320) 894-4808 Greenwald, MN (320) 290-1240 Cleeson Mill Travis Schlosser Altura, MN Miltona, MN (507) 458-5907 218-639-1727
Luxemburg Feed Service
Luxemburg, MN (320) 252-1513
Jack Stamschror Kellogg, MN (507) 259-0269
Timberline Dairy Service Joe Graber Kalona, IA (319) 656-3527
Dale Ommodt, CCA Crop & Livestock Nutrition Atwater, MN (320) 212-3190
Winscher Seeds Mike Winscher 320-282-6748 Shawn Winscher Royalton, MN (320) 420-4516
Lee Kurtenbach
Mechanicksville, IA (319) 241-5105
Peak Forage Products LLC
Benjamin Arlt
Natures Best
Tim Huffman 608-574-7918 Nelson Horst Adam Decker 608-988-6855 Canton S.D. Kevin Zimmerman (605) 359-0765 608-574-7918
Natures Best
Big Stone City S.D. (651) 331-8865
Jason Mickelson Frazee, MN 218-849-3137
Mervin Beachy St. Ansgar, IA (641) 381-0054
DJ Cattle Co.
Daryn Yoder Leon, IA (641) 344-6002
Chad Tesch Canton S.D. (605) 759-5622 Dan (Boone) Uphoff, Sioux Falls S.D. (605) 321-1862
Natures Best Roger TeSlaa
Inwood, IA
(605) 370-2249
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 13
ConƟnued from LEADER | Page 12
consumers or male counterparts in the workforce. To combat skepticism in one’s ability to lead, McAndrews emphasized the importance of persistency and credibility when sharing a message. “I don’t think differently when I interact one-on-one or in a group. We all have to give time for each other and share our thoughts, because we’re all working towards the same common goals,” McAndrews said. “If at rst your ideas aren’t given any consideration, be patient and be calm.
“The world is run by those who show up. It’s not always knowing the perfect opportunity, it’s the willingness to step up and make a way.” ȃ PAM BOLIN, DAIRY FARMER
Stick to the facts and encourage more input.” McAndrews is a nutritionist for Vita Plus, while her husband, Mike, and his parents milk 300 cows near Sauk Centre, Minn. In McAndrews’ occupation, as well as her involvement in her college’s local alumni chapter and the Stearns County American Dairy Association, McAndrews experience is vast. Within the dairy industry, there are numerous leadership opportunities for women, both in the limelight and
behind the scenes. Deciding which one best ts a given personality helps mold that individual into their best form of leadership. “It’s just learning to realize that God gave us all a purpose. To me, I take great comfort in knowing He doesn’t care if I’m male or female,” Bolin said. “If you have a passion for the dairy industry, you can lead.” The path towards leadership While leadership can be a learned skill, it is most often developed from the inuences that surround an individual. Liebenstein, Bolin and McAndrews all agreed their skills and mindset that have helped them reach the positions they are in today were rst nurtured in their homes as young children. “I’m a product of what my parents have done, and now my daughter is learning by watching me,” McAndrews said. The three panelists encouraged the audience, if they have not already begun to do so, to get involved in their children’s activities – church, school and 4-H, among other organizations. “Wherever your kids are, there goes your leadership. And hopefully, in those positions, you’re helping those kids become leaders,” Liebenstein said. Likewise, maintain a presence with organizations the farm is directly linked to. “If anyone is a part of a co-op and you get the opportunity to grow, do it,” Bolin said. “I was 30 years old when our director was retiring and asked Dave to run. He couldn’t, but
suggested I do it. … Take the chance because you never know how it will turn out.” McAndrews also reiterated the importance of being involved in organizations outside of agriculture. “I think it’s neat to have something not ag related that can help me learn more. Surround yourself with people who can help you and you can help them,” said McAndrews, who is the president of her college’s local alumni chapter. Most importantly, for women in agriculture and those establishing
leadership, other women must support them. “We’ve protected ourselves for so long, sometimes we protect ourselves from each other and that causes problems,” Liebenstein said. Bolin agreed. “The world is run by those who show up. It’s not always knowing the perfect opportunity, it’s the willingness to step up and make a way,” Bolin said. “Ladies, let’s take care of each other – if someone else gets there, let’s encourage them.”
E. Rissler Mfg. LLC MANUFACTURING IN PENNSYLVANIA SINCE 1971
New Enterprise, PA
814-766-2246
Call For Your Local Dealer:
Maki Farm Service Curtis, WI Podevels Sales & Service MarshÀeld, WI Reinke Sales Green Bay, WI Swiderski’s Antigo, WI
Give the Gift of Warmth and Comfort! Quatro® Boots
Thermo -58°F
Insulated Non-Insulated Camo Safety Toe
Extreme -60°F
Styles for Men, Women and Youth!
The World’s Longest Lasting Safety Footwear!
Glacier -60°F 16” & 12”
One Tough Overshoe! rshoe!
Socks Guaranteed for Life! Sheepskin Slippers for After Chore Comfort!
Jackets Bibs/Pants Aprons Totes/Pouches
Place your orders by December 14th to e ensure nsure C Christmas hristmas delivery!
634 County Rd T Hammond, WI 54015 800-796-5333 | info@afsBagMan.com | www.afsBagMan.com
Page 14 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
Penta Mixers... The Best Mixing, Heaviest Mixer You Can Buy Spreaders
Lagoon Pumps
SINGLE SCREW TRAILER MIXERS
Agi-Pompe Designed D esigned to o Suit your Needs Neee ds
ion .
If y
HYDRA-SPREAD
Minnesota’s
Put Some Real Muscle Into Your Spreading
ding and Man e e ur tF s e e
ing Dealer
EACH SUPREME MIXER IS CUSTOM DESIGNED AND BUILT TO ORDER!
h
ou
l
Protwin® Side-Discharge Spreader
ut
so wwave a w.da barn, we have y.com airylandsuppl
Sizes Range From 285-550 Bu.
12” LAGOON PUMP Fastest and most efwcient pump on the market
Cyclone Discharge Model
SBX Spreader
• 60’ wide spread pattern • Use for poultry litter
SB Series
• Twin Vertical Beaters • 5/8” thick Áighting on vertical beater • Super Slide Poly Floor • Inset Guillotine Gate • 180° Swivel Arm For Hydraulic Lines • Articulating Bull Pull Hitch • Spring Suspension • 10 Gauge Steel Walls
Better Spreading Utilizes More of the Manure Nutrients
2054 Propush® Box Spreaders In Stock!
A size for every need!
nd l Ha
Available In Sizes From 275 Cu Ft. To 1,475 Cu. Ft.
La rg
Alley Scrapers
ELECTRA-STEER SPREADER LINE • Steers while backing up • Precision steering greatly reduces tire wear • Proven technology
This is, quite simply, the most advanced, best-built manure spreader you’re ever going to see. Now, do you need one this tough? Well, that all depends on how often you like to buy them.
LAGOON CRAWLER
From Our Side Of The Fence
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 15
What is one way farmers can make the best of this market? Tina LeBrun Farm Business Management instructor 9 years New Ulm, Minn.
Ken Thiesen Farm Business Management instructor 10 years St. Cloud, Minn. Describe what the past year has been like for the dairy farms you work with. The past couple of years have been challenging for dairy producers. But, 2017 has been particularly challenging. Milk price has been the major contributor. Farms that have no or very little debt have seen less cash ďƒ&#x;ow problems, but the majority of farms in the dairy industry do carry debt. With where prices are at, it is challenging enough to pay operating expenses let alone make signiďƒžcant debt payments. It has become increasingly difďƒžcult for farms to save for major expenses like pit pumping and silage chopping. So many farms are needing to borrow additional money to pay these large expenses. What has been the biggest challenge? Cash ďƒ&#x;ow has been the biggest challenge. Keeping all vendors paid current as well as servicing debt has become a real challenge. A difference between the past year and previous down turns in the market is that we have also seen a signiďƒžcant drop in bull calf and cull cow prices. In the past these two markets have helped to generate cash ďƒ&#x;ow. That has not been the case this past year. In low milk price times, low cost of production wins. Farms must strive to keep their cost of production down. What are a couple money management tips you’ve suggested? Farms must limit capital purchases in low milk price times. They need to wait to make major improvements to facilities or equipment lines. Now is a good time to do some price shopping. Get additional bids on feed and breeding. I do not suggest cutting back on the things that give you good production. But, maybe there is a cheaper alternative that will give you the same result for less money. Know your numbers. What are your costs, both direct and overhead? What is your cost of production? By knowing these numbers dairy farmers are better able to make wise management decisions. What is one positive message you want to tell dairy farmers? Domestically we are using a record amount of dairy products. Per capita consumption in the United States is at all-time highs. Dairy farms are producing a product that the consumer wants. Production per cow continues to rise. Dairy farmers have become good at what they do. What is one way farmers can make the best of this market, for themselves and their dairy? Work to become efďƒžcient. Strive to be a low cost of production farm. Then when we get a rebound in milk prices, you will be able to become proďƒžtable How do you feel the current price will affect the dairy industry in the Midwest in the next year? We have already seen a number of auctions and herds selling out. I feel that if low milk prices continue into 2018, we will continue to see some exiting the industry. To continue dairy farming, you must know your costs and become more efďƒžcient. That is what it is going to take moving forward.
Describe what the past year has been like for the dairy farms you work with. My profession offers the opportunity to work with all types of farm operations, but years like this I am humbled to work with a dairy producer more than ever. Dairy farmers really shine at farm management when commodity prices are at poor levels. They are used to planning for the decrease in proďƒžt margins that seems to be on the horizon at some point, so when the good years come, they focus on cushioning for the bad which allows them to stay aďƒ&#x;oat year after year. Financial stress and anxiety is out there, but dairy producers are handling it better than other types of farm operations. What has been the biggest challenge? Thin margins. What are a couple money management tips you’ve suggested? Look at your cost of production either on a per cow or per hundredweight basis and evaluate how you can improve that value by lowering direct expense items such as veterinary, purchased feed, breeding services and custom hire. Or, how can you increase your returns to improve your COP with either additional milk income or increased cattle sales. What is one positive message you want to tell dairy farmers? Use the lower feed market to your advantage in the coming months. What is one way farmers can make the best of this market, for themselves and their dairy? Enroll in a farm business management program. Surround yourself as a farm manager with people who are on your side and looking out for the longevity of your farm and your legacy. How do you feel the current price will affect the dairy industry in the Midwest in the next year? Today’s price and forecasted futures are keeping dairy farmers from building equity in their dairy operation. Producers are simply maintaining the ship to stay aďƒ&#x;oat. Value added investments into the operation are limited as these producers hold out for better prices.
,OWER COST THAN SORTED SEMEN HEIFER CALVES "OOSTS FERTILITY *UST MIX INSEMINATE
(%)&%20,53¸ Sex the bull of your choice! .OW AVAILABLE IN SINGLE AND MULTI DOSE VIALS
HTTP YOUTU BE . :S1Y XUK
Mfg. by EMLAB GENETICS WWW EMLABGENETICS COM
What has been the biggest challenge? Trying to meet cash ďƒ&#x;ow needs. The milk price is not covering expenses with some of the farms I work with. This puts stress on their marriages, also. What are a couple money management tips you’ve suggested? Keep track of all expenses, including family living, and try to cut out those that if cut, would not hurt milk production. We have to try to become more efďƒžcient. Keep great records and reconcile your bank accounts, so you know your numbers are accurate. Keep on top of the little things, and it will take care of the big things. What is one positive message you want to tell dairy farmers? Big or small, it doesn’t matter as long as you are the best. There is always room for the best producers. Flavored milk will be used again around the country in schools for the 2018-19 school year. This will increase milk consumption and create demand. What is one way farmers can make the best of this market, for themselves and their dairy? Try to stay positive, and look to the future. How do you feel the current price will affect the dairy industry in the Midwest in the next year? Cash ďƒ&#x;ows may be tough in 2018. Today’s CME price in the $14-15 range is below most people’s cost of production. Turn to FENCE | Page 16
Green Sawdust Available for Purchase PICK UP OR DELIVERY AVAILABLE Call for more information.
ADDOCO, INC.
563-557-1555
12678 Industrial Court • Peosta, IA 52065
used dairy equipment and milk tanks
37236 County 56 Blvd., Cannon Falls, MN 651-258-4311 • Mark’s Cell 651-764-4084 HOULE
Describe what the past year has been like for the dairy farms you work with. The past year has been a struggle for some of the dairy farms I work with. One has gone out of the business, and a couple more are feeling ďƒžnancial stress to the point that they may be going out of the business, also.
We BUY, SELL, TRADE
Lindell Sales & Service We carry...
Bill Januszewski High school ag instructor, 25 years Farm Business Management instructor, 10 years Pelican Rapids, Minn., and Alexandria, Minn.
WE SPECIALIZE IN USED DAIRY EQUIPMENT.
Sales & Installation of HiTensile Fence
Milking machine equipment, bulk milk tanks and cooling equipment. Give us a call, we will be glad to help you with any of your milking machine or bulk tank needs.
(320) 360-6308
We also BUY your used equipment and milk tanks.
ELECTRIC • WOVEN • RAIL Browerville, MN The Right Fence... Built RIGHT
SALVAGE HOUSE
424 Third Street, Fullerton, NE 68638 • 800-844-5427
Page 16 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
ConƟnued from FENCE | Page 15
Nate Converse Central Lakes College in Little Falls, Minn., primarily working with Morrison County and surrounding counties 9 years
Tom Anderson Farm Business Management, 19 years High school ag, 18 years Riverland Community College, Minn. Describe what the past year has been like for the dairy farms you work with. It has been a difcult year. The weather in Southeast Minnesota has been damp throughout the spring, summer and fall resulting in late planting and a later than normal harvest. Many dairy farms have struggled with low milk prices, the loss of milk basis and rising costs. It has been difcult to stay positive.
What has been the greatest challenge? The greatest challenge has been the inability to cash ow for this long duration of lower milk prices with rising costs. Those herds that have been using BST have had to make the decision on what is the best method to go off using the product. I believe many have chosen to not enroll freshening cows as opposed to quitting cold turkey now. What are a couple money management tips you’ve suggested? New capital investments need to show a quick return on funds invested. Calculate your total debt per hundredweight of milk sold, with a goal of less than $20/cwt. Calculate your debt and lease payments per cwt. of milk sold, with a goal of less than $2.75. With these two calculations, you may consider talking with your lender about renancing. Always keep an open door with your lender. What is your SCC, and how much are you leaving on the table if lowered to less than 200,000? Calculate Energy Corrected Milk and determine the benets of higher components. The most pounds may not provide the most income. Are you losing potential revenue from lower components? Are you being efcient with your labor cost? Are their ways to improve labor cost? What is one positive message you want to tell dairy farmers? Dairy has a life cycle and though we are in a down cycle, trends will change and the market will change as the value of the dollar swings back. It is important work that dairypersons do, in providing a nutritious product for the consumer. We must protect and improve our mental health by rubbing shoulders with positive people, talking to friends and neighbors. We need to support each other by sharing ideas and frustrations and above all give, pay forward and make a commitment to doing random acts of kindness. For when we give, much more is received in return. Giving doesn’t need to be nancial. Giving of our time and thoughtfulness may not be nancially rewarding, but it improves our outlook and perspective on life. What is one way farmers can make the best of this market, for themselves and their dairy? Know your numbers and use them on a regular basis to make positive and sound decisions. Try not to react, but to be proactive. Producing quality milk with solid components will be rewarded with the best price and the healthiest cows. A loss of cattle inventory can be devastating on the balance sheet, so keeping a good inventory of cattle and crops is the one piece of which you have control. The milk price is difcult to control, so focus on those items of which you have the most control. How do you feel the current price will affect the dairy industry in the Midwest in the next year? My greatest concern is the effect this will have on the young producers trying to enter a difcult industry. Those who have the benet of entering with a well-established previous generation are blessed, though they face a unique set of challenges. The rst-generation families are always challenged with the limitations of available capital and cash ow. Our rural communities benet from a thriving dairy industry. Rural schools and main streets always benet from a strong dairy economy.
Target Your Customers!
The Dairy Star is sent only to DAIRY FARMERS!
If you would like to advertise in the DAIRY STAR, call 320-352-6303 for more information.
Describe what the past year has been like for the dairy farms you work with. It has been very mixed. Purchased feed costs have been at and milk prices are averaging about $1 higher than this same period in 2016. The more established, less leveraged farms are doing better than 2016. Overall prots are still near breakeven on these operations. While this is positive, the margins are not great enough to allow them to repair much of the nancial damage incurred in 2016. The younger dairies with more leverage are continuing to suffer. The debt service requirements are consuming a substantial amount of the cash ow, making it difcult to keep up with operating expenses. Many of these farms have been working with their vendors to develop plans to keep their bills current through these challenging times. What has been the biggest challenge? The longevity of this downward cycle and the grim look at 2018 are starting to wear on operations and attitudes. Cash ow has been tight since 2015 and working capital has been eroding. I am impressed that producers continue to stay positive and work proactively to manage their operations. What are a couple money management tips you’ve suggested? Watch your cash ow budgets. The cash ow budget allows the producer to take a strategic look at the operation. It gives you a chance to predict impending expenses, manage your income and determines when you might need to rely on operating lines of credit. For it to be effective, however, you need to benchmark your actual income and expenses against the budget and make adjustments as needed. Know your cost of production so you are not afraid to hedge milk when prices are favorable. Be honest with your vendors, your banker, and most importantly yourself about your situation. Most vendors are excellent to work with, but you need to do your part by communicating with them and being honest and realistic about your situation and your ability to make payments. Look for non-productive assets and turn them into cash. These are items on your farm that are not generating a return on investment. As a general rule, more iron equals less cash. In these tough times, your operation needs to be lean to help keep more of the prots in the business. Review each expense item to determine its impact on the protability of your dairy. Make sure everyone in your business is fully employed. Labor is expensive even owner/ operator labor. This may look very different for individual farms. In some cases this may mean cutting out the middleman or contract labor and pulling more of that work back to the farm. On other farms there might be more benet to cutting hired labor and utilizing more custom hire. Either way, making sure that policies, procedures, and plans are in place to fully maximize the efciency of your labor force is critical in reducing costs. What is one positive message you want to tell dairy farmers? I feel very fortunate to be able to work with dairy farmers and the dairy industry. They are down to earth hard working people and willing to help their neighbors. It is good for farmers to get out to events where other producers will be and take the time to share tools, strategies, and successes for the benet of all. What is one way farmers can make the best of this market, for themselves and their dairy? The top producers focus on what they can control. Some examples include: Producing and harvesting high quality feed; managing shrink; working with vendors to reduce input costs; carefully evaluating and prioritizing costs; examining debt structure and repayment capacity and reducing living expenses. The re-tooling that you do now will increase the protability and efciency of your operation for the long term and will not only help you in these challenging times but also help when prices improve. How do you feel the current price will affect the dairy industry in the Midwest in the next year? The Class 3 price is under $15 for the rst quarter of 2018. This is well below the break-even for most producers. Some producers are running cash ow projections now to determine priorities and communicate plans with their lenders. I worry that accounts payable will continue to increase on many operations until vendors place them on cash-only basis. Once this happens, it can be difcult to pull the operation out of that spiral. Farms short on cash are often forced to forego critical inputs, this can decrease protability and compound cash ow problems.
ATTENTION FARMERS...
I-29
MOO University
Are rocks, re-rod or holes showing in your bunker silo?
WE CAN RESTORE YOUR BUNKER TO LIKE NEW CONDITION! Approximately 1” of steel reinforced material added to bunker walls.
SILO RELINING WITH “JETCRETE”
BARN WALL & BASEMENT RESTORATION WITH “JETCRETE” B (Limestone, rock, block & concrete wall)
SERVING IA, MN, WI, IL AND SD CONTACT:
800-866-7327
FROM FIELD TO BUNK: GROWING AND FEEDING DAIRY QUALITY FORAGES
January 8-12, 2018
BUNKER SILO RESTORATION/REPAIR WITH JETCRETE • High pressure water blasting of walls for excellent bonding. • Reinforced heavy duty wire mesh installed. • Jetcrete -phnuematically applied concrete.
WINTER WORKSHOP
Register by December 29 for the EarlyBird Rate!
January 8: Mandan,ND January 9: Watertown, SD January 10: Pipestone, MN January 11 :Orange City, IA January 12: Norfolk, NE
Cost: $50 for producers and industry before 12/29 • $65 after 12/29 $25 for students before 12/29 • $30 after 12/29 Register at: iGrow.org/Events/I-29-moo-university-2018/
Questions? Contact Tracey Erickson 605-882-5140 Tracey.Erickson@sdstate.edu or Kim Clark 402-472-6065 KimClark@unl.edu
I29MooUniversity
South Dakota State University, South Dakota counties, and U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperating. South Dakota State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and offers all benefits, services, education, and employment opportunities without regard for race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or Vietnam Era veteran status.
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 17
(;75$ 6.,' $1' 75$&. /2$'(5 &29(5$*( &20(6 67$1'$5' 6LQFH *HKO KDV SXVKHG VNLG ORDGHU LQQRYDWLRQ IRUZDUG 7RGD\ *HKO FRQWLQXHV WKH WUDGLWLRQ ZLWK D FRPSOHWH OLQH RI VNLG ORDGHUV DQG WUDFN ORDGHUV GHVLJQHG ZLWK SURGXFWLYLW\ DQG HIILFLHQF\ LQ PLQG 3XUFKDVH D QHZ *HKO U 6NLG RU 7UDFN /RDGHU EHIRUH -XQH WK DQG UHFHLYH DQ LQFOXGHG \HDU KU ;357 WRWDO IXOO PDFKLQH H[WHQGHG FRYHUDJH SODQ +XUU\ RIIHU HQGV VRRQ
CALL YOUR LOCAL GEHL DEALER TODAY!
ZZZ JHKO FRP
USED SKIDSTEERS ‘15 Gehl RT250, JS ctrls, D, 2500 lift cap., C/H/A, 2 spd., full warranty 2 yrs or 2000 hrs., 75 hrs .......................... $54,500 ‘16 Gehl R220, dual T-bar ctrls, D, 2500 lift cap., C/H, 2 spd., 2560 hrs . $27,500 ‘15 Gehl R220, pilot ctrls, D, 2200 lift cap., C&H, 2 spd., 3190 hrs ...................... $22,500 ‘15 Gehl R220, dual T-bar ctrls, D, 2500 lift cap., C&H, 2 spd, 1475 hrs ............... $29,700 ‘15 Gehl R220, T-bar ctrls, D, 2500 lift cap., C&H, 2 spd., 2515 hrs ...................... $26,800 ‘14 Gehl R220, T-bar, H ctrls, D, 2200 lift, C&H, 2 spd., 1230 hrs. ..................... $30,400 ‘14 Gehl R220, H ctrls, D, 2400 lift cap, C/H/A, 2 spd, 1230 hrs................................. $32,000 ‘14 Gehl R220, H ctrls, D, 2500 lift cap, C/H, 2 spd, 2560 hrs ......................... $34,250 ‘13 Gehl R190, T-bar ctrls, D, 2150 lift cap, SS, 2100 hrs ..................................... $24,950 ‘15 Gehl R190, dual T-bar self leveling ctrls, D, 2100 lift cap., C&H, 2 spd., 2300 hrs ........................................... $24,900 ‘14 Gehl R190, dual T-bar ctrls, D, 1900 lift cap., C&H, 2 spd., 1865 hrs. ............. $26,900 ‘13 Gehl R190, T-bar ctrls, D, C&H, 2 spd., 2110 lift cap, 700 hrs. ........... $30,900 ‘14 Gehl R190, hand ctrls, D, 2100 lift cap, C&H, radio, 2 spd, 2190 hrs ...... $26,250 ‘14 Gehl R190, pilot ctrls, D, C&H, 2 spd, 2103 hrs................................. $28,500 ‘13 Gehl R190, JS, D, 2150 lift cap., 2 spd., C&H, 1300 hrs ...................... $33,900 ‘16 Gehl R150, H ctrls, D, 1500 lift cap., C&H, SS, 1835 hrs............................ $22,950 ‘10 Gehl 7810, JS ctrls, D, 3800 lift cap, C/H, 2 spd, 958 hrs .................... Call for price ‘01 Gehl 7600, t-bar ctrls, D, 3400 lift cap, C/H, 5925 hrs.................................... $15,900 ‘06 Gehl 6640E, t-bar ctrls, D, C&H, 2 spd, 2600 lift cap., 2682 hrs .......... $19,900 ‘11 Gehl 5640E, t-bar H-ctrls, D, 2200 lift cap., SS, 2600 hrs .............. $20,500 ‘04 Gehl 5640, T-bar ctrls, D, 2200 lift cap., SS, 3905 hrs ..................................... $16,500 ‘11 Gehl 5640, T-bar ctrls, D, 2200 lift cap., C&H, 2 spd., 1370 hrs ...................... $27,300 ‘12 Gehl 5240 P2, T-bar ctrls, D, 1900 lift cap, C&H, 2 spd., 850 hrs. ................ $27,500 ‘13 Gehl 5240E P2, T-bar ctrls., D, 2100 lift cap., counter wts., SS, 2050 hrs .. $25,900
USED SKIDSTEERS
‘14 Gehl 4640E, Case ctrls, D, 1650 lift cap, C/H, single speed, 4190 hrs .............. $19,800 ‘89 Gehl 3310, T-bar ctrls, gas, 750 lift cap w/pallet forks & bkt, 1435 hrs............. $5,500 ‘87 Gehl 3310, T-bar ctrls, 750 lift cap., manure & dirt bkt., 2980 hrs............... $5,700 Gehl V270, H ctrls, D, 2700 lift cap, C/H/A, 2 spd, 4700 hrs................................. $19,300 ‘14 Mustang 2600R, H&F ctrls., D, C&H, 2 spd., 2600 lift cap., 850 hrs ........... $35,500 ‘13 Mustang 2100RT, switchable ctrls, D, 17� tracks, C/H, 2 spd, 2380 hrs .. $33,500 ‘12 Mustang 2100RT, pilot ctrls, D, 2100 lift cap., C/H/A, 400 hrs ............ $43,900 ‘08 Mustang 2076, D, 2400 lift cap., C/H/A, SS, 912 hrs., dual JS ctrls ................ $29,900 ‘06 Mustang 2066, dual lever/ft ctrls, D, 2000 lift cap., C/H, 1174 hrs......... $21,900 ‘06 Mustang 2066, ISO pilot ctrls/H ctrls, D, 2000 lift cap., C&H, 2 spd., 1864 hrs ........................................... $18,500 ‘06 Mustang 2066, T-Bar ctrls, D, 2000 lift cap,c/h, 2 spd, 3377 hrs ................... $15,500 ‘11 Mustang 2056, dual L&F ctrls, D, 2100 lift cap, C&H, 2 spd., 988 hrs ............ $24,900 ‘13 Mustang 2054, Case ctrls., D, 1650 lift cap., SS, counter wt., 722 hrs........... $16,900 ‘08 Mustang 2054, D, SS, H, 1750 lift cap, 6200 hrs. ..................... $10,300 ‘99 Mustang 2050, T-bar ctrls, 1650 lift cap., D, 4623 hrs., C&H, SS.............. $11,900 ‘11 Mustang 2044, t-bar ctrls, D, 1550 lift cap., C/H, 1515 hrs ...................... $18,700 ‘13 Mustang 2041, H/F ctrls, 1350 lift cap, D, 4025 hrs ....................................... $13,900 ‘15 Mustang 1900R, H/pilot ctrls, D, 2100 lift cap., C/H, 2 spd., 2150 hrs .......... $26,550 ‘15 Mustang 1900R, H&F ctrls, D, 2100 lift cap, C&H, 2 spd., 54 hrs ................... $34,900 ‘15 Mustang 1900R, H/F ctrls, D, 1900 lift cap, C&H, 2 spd., 1928 hrs ............... $28,300 ‘16 Mustang 1500R, H/F ctrls, D, 1500 lift cap., C&H, 2550 hrs............ $23,250 ‘15 Mustang 1350R, H/F ctrls, D, C&H, 1450 lift cap., C&H, 1070 hrs............ $27,900 ‘78 Mustang 348, T-bar/foot ctrls, G, 1200 lift cap, SS 879 hrs .................... $4,950 ‘13 JD 318E, L/F ctrls, D, 2100 lift cap., C/H/A, 2 spd., 2615 hrs..................... $25,500 ‘07 Case 435, H-ctrls., D, 2300 lift cap., C/H, SS, 2750 hrs ............................. $18,850
USED SKIDSTEERS
‘85 NH L785, H/FT ctrls., D, 2050 lift cap., C, SS, 6935 hrs. .................................. $8,900
TRACTORS
‘45 International H, 26 hp, 540 pto....$1,995 ‘58 International 460, 60 hp gas eng., quick hitch, full hyd. ldr. ....................$4,495 IH 656, gas, 63 HP .............................$5,900
USED TMRS/MIXERS
‘13 Penta 6720HD 725 cuft w/rubber ext., at frt conveyor, stainless steel .........$23,900 ‘11 Penta 4420VS stationary mixer, 420 cu. ft., 500 cu. ft. w/ext., (2) 15 hp Leeson 3 phase motors, power door openers, 2 spd. gear box, Digistar scale head ............$16,000 ‘10 Penta 3020 SD, 540 pto, 320 cu. ft., 4’ RH front/side conveyor, 9â€? rubber ext., scale ....................... $19,900 ‘04 Penta 5600, 600 cu. ft., EZ 2000V scale, corner door .......................... $16,000 ‘05 Penta 4110, 400 cu. ft. .............. $14,500 ‘08 Penta 5620HD, 600 cu. ft., 8â€? rubber ext., right corner door .................... $23,500 Knight 3300, 540 PTO, 900X20 tires, new relined ...................................... $7,950 Knight 3250, 10 hp elc. single phase motor, 250 cu. ft., EZ 210 Digistar scale ..... $8,250 ‘11 Kuhn Knight VTC 1100, LH slide tray, rear commodity door, 2 remote scales, mounted to 2012 Peterbuilt 367 w/40,619 miles, 66,000 GVW, 10 spd., transmission, front mount hyd. drive, 1100 cu. ft.................................... $134,000 ‘99 Supreme 500, LH dog leg conv . $13,000 Automatic ATG1800B, 1800 bu./hr., 54â€? blower, 4 cut rolls, load auger ... $8,500
TELEHANDLERS
‘06 Gehl RS5-34, D, 6000 lift cap, 3560 hrs ........................................... $34,500 ‘05 Gehl RS6-42, JD dsl., 6600 lift cap., 4WD, 2884 hrs................................$35,000 ‘07 Mustang 642, 2 Stick Ctrls, D, 6600 lift cap, 3 spd, 2432 hrs. ........$37,000 ‘06 Mustang 6-34, 6000 lift cap., 2650 hrs .........................................$34,300 ‘00 Genie S-60, 60’ lift height, 6500 hrs .........................................$23,900 ‘12 JCB 541-70AGRI, D, 9000/23’ lift cap., C/H/A, 4 spd., operating wt. 16,670 lbs., 7890 hrs ........................................... $33,800
MANURE HANDLING ‘12 Kuhn Knight 8141, 4100 gal, hyd. lid ............................................ $42,900 ‘12 Kuhn Knight 8141, 4100 gal., hyd. lid ............................................ $35,800 ‘99 Knight Mfg. 8024, 500 bu. ......... $12,900 ‘14 Kuhn Knight 8132, 3200 gal., 435 cu. ft......................................... $27,900 Kuhn-Knight 8132, 3200 gal ............. $18,000 ‘08 Kuhn Knight 8132, frt. & rear splash guards ................................. $22,500 ‘05 Kuhn Knight 8118, 1800 gal., 400 bu., auger ighting good cond. .............. $14,900 Kuhn Knight 8118, 1800 gal. ............ $12,000 Kuhn Knight 8118, 1800 gal., 400 bu............................................. $10,900 Knight 8018, 400 bu, 1800 gal, side ext., New Hammer and Hammer Shafts .. $12,000 ‘89 New Idea 3739, 540 pto, 390 bu., end gate ............................................ $6,500 NH 195, 440 cu. ft., top beater ........... $7,900 ‘17 Hagedorn 5440, lights, used 50 loads.................................. $34,500 H&S 370, 370 bu., Upper beater, Endgate ............................................. $9,800 ‘91 Balzer manure pump, V6, 8’ pump, 2 pt. hitch, rmt. ďŹ ngertip ctrl ............. $3,450 ‘00 Balzer manure pump, V6, 8’ vert. manure pump ................................... $4,500 Jamesway manure pump, 6x8, 8’ pump, 2 pt. hitch, double agitation .............. $5,500
HAY & FORAGE Gehl 980, 16’ w/12 ton tandem gear, H&S 6-12 running gear .................... $6,950 Gehl 980 bu., 16’ box, 12 ton tandem, vari-speed drive ................................ $5,500 NH 144 std. conveyor, no ext., ground driven .................................. $3,900 NH 144, ground driven ...................... $2,900 ‘04 NH BR780, 5’ x 6’ bales, net wrap/knife kit, extra wide pickup ...................... .$9,900 CIH 600, 60� blower .......................... $5,300 Badger BN2054, 54� forage blower ...... $895 ‘84 Badger 950, 16’, tandem, 12T MN running gear ........................ $4,150 ‘93 JD 535, 5x6 bales, twine ............. $7,750
HAY & FORAGE
JD 265, 7’10� cut, outside swath roller, tarp, good cond................................. $7,200 ‘09 JD 468SS, 4’x6’ bales, net wrap and twine, Mega Wide plus P.U., silage special, 14,000 bales ..................... $20,500 ‘12 Kuhn GA300GM, 7’3� raking width, 10’6� with windrow, 3 pt. rotary rake$5,000 ‘15 Kuhn GF222T, 2 rotor, pull-type, 8’6� working width ........................... $3,150 ‘14 Kuhn GF222T, 8’6� working width .$2,900 ‘H&S Super 7+4, 16’ box ................... $6,300 ‘11 H&S M9, 9’ pickup, hyd. drive ... $16,000 ‘98 H&S XL59, 16’ box, 12T tandem gear .............................. $6,400 ‘13 H&S FBTA20 20’ box, twin auger disch., frt. unload, 416 H&D running gear. $17,500 ‘08 H&S X12 12 wheel rake .............. $7,800 ‘03 H&S BF12HC, 12 wheel high cap rake ........................................... $7,950 ‘16 H&S hyd. drive, 16’ box, elec. speed ctrl ............................... $17,500 (2) ‘06 Meyer 4220 Forage Box, 20’, X1906 Meyer 6 whl running gear, Hyd Drive .................................$17,900 ea. ‘90 Meyer 500TSS, 16’ box, 12 ton tandem, bunk ext., pintle chain ...................... $6,250 Gehl 800 chopper w/hay head ........... $2,995 Buhler BM2400, ’13, Transports 12-4’ or 8-6’ wide Bales............................... $21,000 Flat Rack/Hay Rack, 7-2/2’x11-1/2’, 6 bolt rims .......................................... $695 Tonutti RCS8 8 whl. rake ................... $2,400 Bush Hog HM2408, 6 disc, 7’10� cut . $4,100 MN Bale Wagon 9’ x 18’ bed, 8 Ton MN gear ................................. $1,550 ‘11 Teagle 808S, 4’ wide rd bales, full spout, end-gate controller, Sold as is.............$8,500 Frontier DM5060, 6 disc, 7’10� cutting width..............................$5,850 Vicon CM2400, 540 pto, 7’0� cut ........$4,700
MISCELLANEOUS
Berlon BSC, lifts full rd. bales ..............$450 ‘14 Everst 5700 84�, 3 blades, 7 gu. deck, 1-1/2� to 4-1/2� cutting height ........$1,985 Erskine Grapple, 72� Brush Grapple $2,300
Page 18 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
Top Performers
Sand bedding integral to high production at McNallan Farms
McNallan Farms – Paul, Steve, Matt and Scott McNallan Kellogg, Minn.; Wabasha County 819 cows
What is your current herd average, butterfat and protein? Our current rolling herd average is 29,544 pounds of milk with 1,009 pounds of fat and 897 pounds of protein. How many times a day do
you milk? If you don’t milk 3X a day, have you tried it in the past? We milk three times a day, which we have been doing about 20 years. When we switched, we saw a boost in production.
Do you use BST? If so, what is your protocol? The whole herd has been on BST, starting at 60 days in milk; however, we will discontinue using BST at the end of the year.
KRISTA KUZMA/DAIRY STAR
KRISTA KUZMA/DAIRY STAR
A cow rests on sand bedding in one of the McNallans’ freestall barns.
The McNallans – (from leŌ) Paul, MaƩ, ScoƩ and Steve – milk 819 cows on their dairy near Kellogg, Minn. The herd’s current rolling herd average is 29,544 pounds of milk with 1,009 pounds of fat and 897 pounds of protein. Do you contract your milk? of 2018 locked in for about 50 Describe your housing and Has it been successful for percent of our milk. We have milking facility. We have four you? Yes, we contract milk. been contracting milk on and sand-bedded freestall barns We use a Revenue Over Feed off for the past 15 years. It is and a double-12 parabone (ROF) Lite program through not always a high percentage parlor that is nearly 40 years our milk cooperative, AMPI. of our milk. The success is hit old. We usually lock in a oor and or miss, but that is what it is a ceiling, and usually don’t supposed to do. It evens out our What is the composition of spend more than 10 cents per income and helps us miss the your ration? What has been hundredweight. We have a lows. Premiums can’t always one of your most recent milk price for three quarters make up for the price swings. Turn to MCNALLANS | Page 20
BUY DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER AND SAVE! Elevated Dual Rail Suspended Freestalls
LEGEND SOFT BED MAT
• Simple low maintenance • No thin top cover to break down and tear • Specialized urethane foam underlay which does not pack over time like crumb filled beds • Fully molded and reinforced top mat for stability and added hygiene • Simple and fast installation • 5 year warranty
• Provides superior lunge area • Fully adjustable • No stall mounts in the concrete or sand • Installation labor savings • Much stronger than our competitors beam systems • Head to head and single row options available • Stall system stays high and dry, resulting in longer life • Compare the weight of this system, heaviest available on the market today
Brisket Board Clamps Available
ALL STEEL COW TRAINERS NOW IN STOCK One Piece Polythylene Construction
Complete Line Of Ritchie Watering Fountains • Top Quality Materials • Smart Design • Built to Last COMPLETE WATERER PARTS ON HAND
Fresh Water On Demand 24 Hours a Day
Heaviest, Strongest, Custom Cattle Gate on the Market!
LEGEND GROOVED ROLL
• Proven for extreme durability • 5mm stainless cable inlay • Guaranteed NEVER to stretch • Grooved top for traction • Can be used with automatic & skid steer scrapers • 10 year warranty
We Ship Anywhere! CS-60 Comfort Stall
Heaviest In The Industry
Calf Warmer We Carry A Complete Line Of Stall & Stanchion Clamps At Low Prices. CALL FOR THE ONES YOU NEED!
AUTO RELEASE PANELS
UNMATCHED BY ANY OF OUR COMPETITORS.
THE HEAVIEST BUILT IN THE DAIRY INDUSTRY.
Your Ultimate Choice in Safety, Economy & Durability
SUPREME COMFORT PAD • Non-Skid Surface • Custom Sizing • 5 year Limited • 1¾” Thickness • Easy Installation warranty
Diagonal Feed Thru Panel Made to Order
Freudenthal MANUFACTURING 715-748-4132 • 1-800-688-0104 • W. 6322 CTH O • MEDFORD, WI 5445
Visit our website: www.freudenthalmfg.com
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 19
Bongards’ Creameries
Has been a quality market for MN dairy farmers for over 100 years. MN producers provide one of the country’s most distinctive brands of cheese that is still made using the same Old World craftsmanship and has been combined with cutting-edge technology to produce cheese that delivers unforgettable taste with unparalleled quality. MN Dairy farmers and Bongards, quality that stands the test of time. We offer a competitive base price, premiums, and the best Àeld representatives in the industry. 13200 Co. Rd. 51 Bongards, MN 55368 (952) 466-5521 Fax (952) 466-5556 110 3rd Ave. NE Perham, MN 56573 (218) 346-4680 Fax (218) 346-4684
“I didn’t even think we had stray voltage!” Roger Lange milks 100 head on his family dairy at Crofton, Nebraska. Until recently he was often forced to sell his fresh heifers because they wouldn t let down their milk. “We called Stray Voltage Consulting, and Jerry found the problem within half an hour.” Roger said. “I was very impressed with Jerry. He’s a former REA guy, so he understands both the farmer and the electric company. Being able to work with both sides is a key component to his success.” “I haven’t had a single problem with our fresh heifers since Jerry corrected our stray voltage problem. I would highly recommend Stray Voltage Consulting to anyone who thinks they might have stray voltage!”
STOP THE SHOCKS
Stray Voltage Consulting Over 30 years of experience
605-695-3328 •
www.strayvoltageconsulting.org
“We really like what this product does for our herd.” — Tony Compton
COMPTON DAIRY, Tony, Pam and Ben Compton COLUMBIA, KENTUCKY 200 cows milking robotically, RHA 24,000M SCC 170,000, 2013 Kentucky Dairy Quality Award “We have been using Udder Comfort™ for 6 years and really like what this product does for our herd. It helps with milk quality, and we have less need for antibiotics,” says Tony Compton of Compton Dairy, Columbia, Kentucky. Tony and his wife Pam and son Ben operate the 200-cow dairy that transitioned to robotic milking last year. The dairy received the Kentucky Dairy Quality Award in 2013. “We like producing a good quality product and to provide good cow comfort for our herd. Udder Comfort is part of that. We like how quickly it gets edema out of the udders. Anytime we can do that, it helps our milk quality. “We use Udder Comfort on all fresh cows 2x/day for 3 to 4 days. We also use the information from the robot every day to find high conductivity and apply Udder Comfort 2x/day in the headlocks where needed. This normally brings the conductivity back down to average.”
Quality Udders Make Quality Milk
Keep the milk in the system 1.888.773.7153 1.613.652.9086 uddercomfort.com Call to locate a distributor near you. For external application to the udder only after milking, as an essential component of udder management. Always wash and dry teats thoroughly before milking.
Page 20 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
ConƟnued from MCNALLANS | Page 18
changes that has been successful for you? Our ration consists of haylage, BMR cornsilage, snaplage, brewers grain, dry corn, cottonseed and a mix from our feed mill that includes vitamins, minerals, soybean meal and distillers. We have been using snaplage for about three to four years, but plan to use more in this upcoming year. Snaplage is an efcient way of harvesting corn. Through the years you’ve been farming, what change has created the biggest jump in your herd average? Sand bedding. We have been using it for 20 years; however, for a portion of the time we had a combination. A few of our barns had sand while the others had mattresses. We switched to 100 percent sand in 2006 when we built our newest two barns. Production went up about 9 pounds per cow per day. What is your herd health program? We follow our vet’s recommendations for vaccines. Whenever we implement them, they seem to work and help with the issue they target. At birth, calves are given Inforce 3 and the navel is dipped with a 7 percent iodine tincture. They are also given a First Defense bolus and then given 1 gallon of colostrum within three hours after birth. At weaning, calves are given Inforce 3 and One Shot. At 4 to 6 months of age, calves are given Bovi-Shield Gold FP 5L5 and Ultrabac 7
would you like to make that would increase your rolling herd average? We would like to make cow comfort even better by adding more free stalls and more bunk space per cow.
KRISTA KUZMA/DAIRY STAR
The McNallans use beef bulls on the lowest tested genomic animals in their herd. They genomic test all the heifers in their herd. along with a pour of Dectomax. Two to three weeks later, they are given a booster of Ultrabac 7 and Leptoferm 5. What does your dry cow and transition program consist of? Cows are given a 60-day dry off period. At dry off, cows are given J-Vac and Scourguard 4KC. They are also treated with Spectramast followed by Orbeseal. At 4 to 6 weeks before calving, they are given J-Vac and Scourguard again. At freshening, cows receive Inforce 3 and a rumen magnet
for the rst three lactations. At 21-27 days in milk, cows are given Enviracor J-5, J-Vac and Express FP10. At 50-55 days in milk, they are given SRP, and then at 207 days carrying a calf, they are given Vira Shield G+ L5. What role does genetics play in your production level and what is your breeding program? All heifers are genomic tested when they are born. The lowest genomic heifers are culled in order to keep advancing the best
genetics on the farm. When choosing bulls, we use the top net merit bulls and use beef bulls on the lowest genomic tested animals. All the cows are registered, but not 100 percent. We use a genetics company to breed our animals. They are bred using a presynch, ovsynch program with double prostaglandin. Heifers are bred starting at 12 months of age as long as they are big enough and have enough condition. What type of improvements
What would you say are the three most important factors for you that helped you attain your current herd average? The rst is genetics. We breed for production and health traits such as productive life. We feel that has helped keep our herd going in the right direction. The second is feed. We know we have to have good quality feed in order to have the cows produce. We use home-raised forages in our ration from our 1,500 acres of crops. The last is cow comfort. Switching to sand bedding helped production, and we have remodeled a portion of our free stalls to accommodate larger cows. We know it is important for the cows to lie down and be comfortable in order to produce milk. Tell us about your farm. Our farm has been in the family since 1868. In addition to our herd, we raise corn, alfalfa and grass hay, peas and sweet corn. We use some no till practice and cover crops. We also have about 400 acres of wooded land. Steve and Paul returned to the farm in 1975 while Paul’s son, Matt, return in 1995 and Steve’s son, Scott, joined the dairy in 2000.
‘Tis the Season
Happy Holidays & Great Blessings!
We re here to help you, your pets, livestock and your backyard friends stay warm, well-fed and happy all winter long.
BACKYARD FRIENDS Peanuts Nuts & More Fruit and More Cardinal Seed Finch Seed SunÛower Seeds Suet Wild Bird Seed
DEER
Deer Pellets • Whole Corn • Assorted Deer Blocks
ton s e r Fo
FOR WARMTH ALL SEASON Wood Pellets • Wood Shavings • Hay & Straw
FARMERS CO-OP CREAMERY
YOUR ONESTOP SHOP CO-OP!
MEETING YOUR ANIMAL FEED NEEDS & MORE! FORES T ON, MN • 320-294-57 11 • M-F 8-5PM • S AT 8-NOON WWW.FORES TONCREAMERY.COM
Page 22 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
Prevent costly falls before they We offer occur grooving & scarifying BEST FOOTING
DRIVE-THRU ELECTRIC GATE SPRING LOADED GATE
Adjustable 13’ - 19’ Standard Adjustable 18’ - 24’ also available
CONCRETE GROOVING
715-579-0531
Call for a FREE Catalog
Strum, WI www.bestfootingconcretegrooving.com
Watertown, SD
1-800-658-3998
www.koehnmarketing.com
Put the PLUS+ in your farm
™
with milk quality, herd health and productivity
+ +
™
OceanBlu™ Pre-post & Barrier Teat Dips Activity Monitoring System
40 Square Cooperative board approves launch of health plans 40 Square Cooperative Solutions (40 Square), a health care cooperative providing farmers the control to manage their health care, is pleased to announce the Board of Directors has approved the release of its health plan consortium for 2018, solidifying a decades-long mission to offer cooperative health plan choices to members of the Minnesota farm community. “We’ve been working to get a health plan cooperative in the state of Minnesota for more than 15 years,” said Jeff Nielsen, President and CEO of United Farmers Cooperative, an agricultural supply cooperative based in Winthrop, Minn. and one of the founders of 40 Square. “Board approval of the health plan consortium means health coverage through 40 Square will be a reality in 2018 and farmers can be condent that the cooperative will be a viable option in the years ahead.” The campaign to bring a health plan cooperative to Minnesota gained momentum in 2016 when multiple insurance carriers departed from the individual market, leaving many farmers across the state without health plan options. In January, the state legislature identied the need for a new
“Board approval of the health plan consortium means health coverage through 40 Square will be a reality in 2018 and farmers can be condent that the cooperative will be a viable option in the years ahead.”
Your partners in dairy production
JEFF NIELSEN, UNITED FARMERS COOPERATIVE
We offer a complete range of products to our customers. We service what we sell to help keep your farm in top shape. Our goal is to make you more profitable and more efficient through innovative equipment, aftermarket solutions, scheduled maintenance and 24 hour emergency services.
www.delaval.com
Contact one of the following dealers to learn more: IOWA Kramer Bros. Monticello, IA 319-465-5931 Prairie Land Ag Supply Inc. Rock Valley, IA 712-476-9290 United-Suckow Dairy Supply West Union, IA 563-422-5355 Postville, IA 563-864-7417
WISCONSIN Advanced Dairy/Bob’s Dairy Supply Spring Valley, WI 715-772-3201 Ederer Dairy Supply Plain, WI 608-546-3713 Joe’s Refrigeration Inc. Withee, WI 715-229-2321 Mlsna Dairy Supply Inc. Cashton, WI 608-654-5106 Professional Dairy Services Waunakee, WI 608-849-5043
Mondovi Dairy Systems Inc. Mondovi, WI 715-926-5777 West Salem, WI 608-769-2113 The Scharine Group Inc. Whitewater, WI 800 472-2880 Mt Horeb, WI 800-872-3470 MINNESOTA & SOUTH DAKOTA D&D Ag Supply Pennock, MN 320-599-4466
East Central Dairy Supply Mora, MN 320-679-1029 Genex Farm Systems Melrose, MN 320-256-3276 Watertown, MN 605-886-7401 Sioux Falls, SD 800-284-0015 S&S Dairy System LLC St. Charles, MN 507-932-4288 Professional Dairy Systems Wadena, MN 218-632-5416
is a registered trademark of Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A. and “DeLaval” is a registered trade/servicemark of DeLaval Holding AB © 2017 DeLaval Inc. DeLaval, 11100 North Congress Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri 64153-1296. www.delaval.com
health plan solution and passed legislation making this long-time effort a reality. 40 Square began organizing to be ready for the 2018 open enrollment season, which ends December 15, with effective dates of coverage beginning January 1, 2018. “Minnesota’s farm families have won a big victory,” said Charlene Vrieze, Project Manager of 40 Square. “For the rst time in the state’s history, farmers can own their health plan and make decisions about the type of coverage that is provided. We’ve put control and choice back into the hands of the production agricultural community that works so hard to keep Minnesota strong.” Individuals can enroll directly online, through their insurance representative or through an agentpartner of 40 Square. In-person meetings with agents will be held the weeks of December 4-8 and December 11-15 to expedite enrollment. Dates, times and locations are: Dec. 4-8, 11-15; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at United Farmers Cooperative, 705 E 4th St, Winthrop, Minn., 55396; and UFC Farm Supply, 801 Hwy 284 S, Waconia, Minn., 55387 Dec. 4, Dec. 6-8, Dec. 11 and Dec. 13-15; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m at Crystal Valley Co-op, 721 W Humphrey, Lake Crystal, Minn., 56055 Dec. 4-5, Dec. 8, Dec. 11-13 and Dec. 15; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Meadowland Farmers Coop, 26890 110th St., Lamberton, Minn., 56152 For more information about 40 Square, visit 40Square.coop or call 844-205-9579.
Page 22 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
Prevent costly falls before they We offer occur grooving & scarifying BEST FOOTING
DRIVE-THRU ELECTRIC GATE SPRING LOADED GATE
Adjustable 13’ - 19’ Standard Adjustable 18’ - 24’ also available
CONCRETE GROOVING
715-579-0531
Call for a FREE Catalog
Strum, WI www.bestfootingconcretegrooving.com
Watertown, SD
1-800-658-3998
www.koehnmarketing.com
Put the PLUS+ in your farm
™
with milk quality, herd health and productivity
+ +
™
OceanBlu™ Pre-post & Barrier Teat Dips Activity Monitoring System
40 Square Cooperative board approves launch of health plans 40 Square Cooperative Solutions (40 Square), a health care cooperative providing farmers the control to manage their health care, is pleased to announce the Board of Directors has approved the release of its health plan consortium for 2018, solidifying a decades-long mission to offer cooperative health plan choices to members of the Minnesota farm community. “We’ve been working to get a health plan cooperative in the state of Minnesota for more than 15 years,” said Jeff Nielsen, President and CEO of United Farmers Cooperative, an agricultural supply cooperative based in Winthrop, Minn. and one of the founders of 40 Square. “Board approval of the health plan consortium means health coverage through 40 Square will be a reality in 2018 and farmers can be condent that the cooperative will be a viable option in the years ahead.” The campaign to bring a health plan cooperative to Minnesota gained momentum in 2016 when multiple insurance carriers departed from the individual market, leaving many farmers across the state without health plan options. In January, the state legislature identied the need for a new
“Board approval of the health plan consortium means health coverage through 40 Square will be a reality in 2018 and farmers can be condent that the cooperative will be a viable option in the years ahead.”
Your partners in dairy production
JEFF NIELSEN, UNITED FARMERS COOPERATIVE
We offer a complete range of products to our customers. We service what we sell to help keep your farm in top shape. Our goal is to make you more profitable and more efficient through innovative equipment, aftermarket solutions, scheduled maintenance and 24 hour emergency services.
www.delaval.com
Contact one of the following dealers to learn more: IOWA Kramer Bros. Monticello, IA 319-465-5931 Prairie Land Ag Supply Inc. Rock Valley, IA 712-476-9290 United-Suckow Dairy Supply West Union, IA 563-422-5355 Postville, IA 563-864-7417
WISCONSIN Advanced Dairy/Bob’s Dairy Supply Spring Valley, WI 715-772-3201 Ederer Dairy Supply Plain, WI 608-546-3713 Joe’s Refrigeration Inc. Withee, WI 715-229-2321 Mlsna Dairy Supply Inc. Cashton, WI 608-654-5106 Professional Dairy Services Waunakee, WI 608-849-5043
Mondovi Dairy Systems Inc. Mondovi, WI 715-926-5777 West Salem, WI 608-769-2113 The Scharine Group Inc. Whitewater, WI 800 472-2880 Mt Horeb, WI 800-872-3470 MINNESOTA & SOUTH DAKOTA D&D Ag Supply Pennock, MN 320-599-4466
East Central Dairy Supply Mora, MN 320-679-1029 Genex Farm Systems Melrose, MN 320-256-3276 Watertown, MN 605-886-7401 Sioux Falls, SD 800-284-0015 S&S Dairy System LLC St. Charles, MN 507-932-4288 Professional Dairy Systems Wadena, MN 218-632-5416
is a registered trademark of Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A. and “DeLaval” is a registered trade/servicemark of DeLaval Holding AB © 2017 DeLaval Inc. DeLaval, 11100 North Congress Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri 64153-1296. www.delaval.com
health plan solution and passed legislation making this long-time effort a reality. 40 Square began organizing to be ready for the 2018 open enrollment season, which ends December 15, with effective dates of coverage beginning January 1, 2018. “Minnesota’s farm families have won a big victory,” said Charlene Vrieze, Project Manager of 40 Square. “For the rst time in the state’s history, farmers can own their health plan and make decisions about the type of coverage that is provided. We’ve put control and choice back into the hands of the production agricultural community that works so hard to keep Minnesota strong.” Individuals can enroll directly online, through their insurance representative or through an agentpartner of 40 Square. In-person meetings with agents will be held the weeks of December 4-8 and December 11-15 to expedite enrollment. Dates, times and locations are: Dec. 4-8, 11-15; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at United Farmers Cooperative, 705 E 4th St, Winthrop, Minn., 55396; and UFC Farm Supply, 801 Hwy 284 S, Waconia, Minn., 55387 Dec. 4, Dec. 6-8, Dec. 11 and Dec. 13-15; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m at Crystal Valley Co-op, 721 W Humphrey, Lake Crystal, Minn., 56055 Dec. 4-5, Dec. 8, Dec. 11-13 and Dec. 15; 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Meadowland Farmers Coop, 26890 110th St., Lamberton, Minn., 56152 For more information about 40 Square, visit 40Square.coop or call 844-205-9579.
A busy two months promoting I have had the opportunity to attend several events in the past couple of months. From elementary school children to dairy farmers, I have been able to talk to a wide variety of audiences throughout the state. Each of the events provided a unique experience and an opportunity to share the story of Minnesota’s dairy community. In October, I visited On the Road with the Southern Minnesota Princess Kay Children’s Museum in Mankato for the grand opening of their dairy exhibit. The exhibit features a freestall barn where kids can feed and bed the stuffed cows, lower and raise the curtains, or turn the fans and lights on and off. The idea of the exhibit is to show kids By Emily Annexstad how farmers care for their cows every day by 64th Princess Kay of the Milky Way giving them a handson playing experience. The freestall barn at the museum reminded me of the barn at my farm. While at the museum, I helped introduce the exhibit, made butter and read dairy stories to the kids. I also visited Matoska International schools, White Bear Lake, and talked to ve different kindergarten classes. The kindergarteners were excited to learn about how farmers care for their cows, and why dairy foods are an important part of their diet. They had plenty of questions about cows for me. At the end of the day, each student got to take home a dairy activity book and share what they learned with their families. I attended the Day on the Dairy at the Blake and Chicky Otte family farm, Square Deal Dairy. The event was lled with plenty of dairy foods, tours of the farm and several fun dairy-related activities. For instance, kids could practice milking a wooden cow and watch the journey of milk from the cow to their
You Are Invited! 2018 Triple-Hil Sires/aAa͂ ǡ Ƭ ǡ
table. During the event, I had the opportunity to visit with many people who were in attendance. Although it was a rainy day, everyone I talked to was enjoying seeing the farm and making connections. It was a wonderful way to show people where their food comes from. At the So Minnesota event at the University of Minnesota in Crookston, I had the chance to talk with college students and staff about the importance of the dairy community in Minnesota. The event featured various Minnesota icons and businesses. Throughout the day, I also passed out cheese samples and judged a butter sculpting contest. This was a unique and fun way to spend the day talking about dairy. In November, I had the opportunity to speak at the Minnesota Farm Bureau banquet. This was a good time to connect with state legislators and Minnesota farmers from a wide range of agricultural elds. It was great to see farmers from all different ages and backgrounds come together to learn new things, meet new people and celebrate achievements. I was honored to have the opportunity to share with them my story and love for the dairy community. Most recently, I attended the Minnesota Milk Producers Convention and Expo banquet. This year’s theme, Expanding our Boundaries, was a tting way to celebrate the past 40 years of the Minnesota Milk Producers Association while looking ahead to the future. It was awesome to see so many people in the dairy community gathered together. I have had a busy couple of months representing Minnesota’s dairy farmers and am looking forward to school visits in January. In the meantime, I hope each and every one of you has a wonderful holiday season spent with family and friends. One of my favorite parts of winter break is spending Christmas morning in the barn doing chores with my family. Doing chores and trying to nd time to celebrate the holiday season can be stressful for dairy farm families, but it is also the time when some of the best family bonding happens and memories are made. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 23
Dairy leaders commend USDA for expanding school milk options
The nation’s two leading dairy organizations applauded Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue on Wednesday for allowing school districts to offer lowfat (1%) avored milk as part of the National School Lunch and School Breakfast programs. An interim nal rule implementing the regulatory changes needed to reinstate low-fat avored milk in schools was announced on the Federal Register site and goes into effect for the 2018-2019 school year. The regulation implements changes that Secretary Purdue proposed earlier this year to streamline the process by which schools can serve low-fat avored milk without rst obtaining a special exemption. In 2012, the U.S. Department of Agriculture eliminated low-fat avored milk as an option in the school meal and a la carte programs, which resulted in a large drop in milk consumption in schools. Students consumed 288 million fewer half-pints of milk from 2012-2015, even though public school enrollment was growing. “We appreciate the Secretary’s understanding that the regulatory process needed to move quickly so schools may include low-fat favored milk in their menu planning and procurement processes,” said Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA). “Today’s action will help reverse declining milk consumption by allowing schools to provide kids with access to a variety of milk options, including the avored milks they enjoy.” The publication of the interim nal rule will allow school districts to solicit bids for low-fat avored milk next spring before the 2018-19 school year begins, giving milk processors time to formulate and produce a low-fat avored milk that meets the specications of a particular school district. The USDA action now allows schools to offer low-fat avored milk during the next school year without requiring schools to demonstrate either a reduction in student milk consumption, or an increase in school milk waste.
Come and learn about Triple-Hil Sires and our common sense approach to Ƥ Ǥ ǡ ͂ ǡ ͂ ǯ ǯ Ǥ Ǧ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ ǯ ǡ Ǥ Ƥ ǡ Ǧ Ǥ ƥ Ǧ Ǥ Ǥ Ǧ ǡ Ǧ Ǥ ͜͡τ Ǥ Ƥ Ǥ ǯ Ǩ Fri. January 5 Location: Cedar Valley Produce Auction 18072 Addison Ave Elma, IA 50628 RSVP: 855-955-2100
Tue. January 9 Location: CAM Center W8872 Pine Road Thorp, WI 54771 RSVP: 715-773-2240
Guest Speakers: Dean Jackson, Mt. Glen Holsteins, PA Bruce Heoft, aAa͂ analyzer, WI
Both Locations: Registration @ 9:00AM Meeting @ 10:00 AM Free lunch Semen Discounts Door Prizes
R.S.V.P. by January 1st to reserve your seat. The bulls that were bred to be cows
Page 24 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
+
DAIRY ST R
The Great Christmas
G I V E A W A Y
2017
Grand Prize Drawing Will Be Held Thursday, December 14, 2017
THE WINNERS WILL BE POSTED ON WWW.DAIRYSTAR.COM, MILK BREAK NEWSLETTER AND ON FACEBOOK.
Adults register for a Trip for two to Nashville for 3 nights
ADULT GRAND PRIZE
(air and hotel).
(one prize winner from each circulation area)
A WINNER FROM EACH ZONE!
We’ll also add $400 for each winner for a relief milker
17 & UNDER GRAND PRIZE
Grand Prize Heifer Calf: NEWALTA LIGHT MY FIRE 9945 Born: September 16, 2017
Dam: Newalta Absolute Genaven Sire: 250HO12879 Mapel Wood Light My Fire Granddam: Grand Melarry Epic Generosa-ET Grand Priz e comes Fro Calf Newalta D m the Vande airy, rW family of al Pipestone , MN.
2ND PLACE CHILDREN’S PRIZE ZE
Toy Pedal Tractor A WINNER FROM EACH ZONE!
A Alisha Ekkel and John Vander Wal (holding Alisha’s son, J John Ekkel) and the Light My Fire heifer calf that will be g given away in the Great Christmas Giveaway drawing.
Register free at any of the participating businesses for your chance to win!
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 25
REGISTER AT THESE PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES: IOWA
ALLAMAKEE COUNTY • Bodensteiner Implement Waukon • 563-568-3463 • Equity Livestock Waukon • 563-568-4501 • Innovative Ag Services Waukon • 563-568-3455 • Waukon Veterinary Services Waukon • 563-568-2487
HOWARD COUNTY
• Bodensteiner Implement Cresco • 563-547-2152
O’BRIEN COUNTY
• Associated Milk Producers Inc. Sanborn • 712-729-3255
SIOUX COUNTY
• Rock Valley Hay Auction Co. Rock Valley • 712-476-5541 • Sioux Dairy Equipment, Inc. Rock Valley • 1-800-962-4346 • Valley Dairy Farm Automation Rock Valley • 712-476-2781
WINNESHIEK COUNTY
• Bodensteiner Implement Decorah • 563-382-2961 • Brynsaas Sales & Service Decorah • 563-382-4484 • Franzen Sales & Service Fort Atkinson • 563-534-2724 • Langs Dairy Equipment Decorah • 563-382-8722 • NICC Dairy Center Calmar • 866-474-4692, ext. 107
MINNESOTA BECKER COUNTY
• Adkins Equipment Inc. Detroit Lakes • 218-847-3131
BENTON COUNTY
• Arnold’s of St. Cloud Sauk Rapids • 320-251-2585 • First National Bank of MilacaGilman OfÀce • 320-387-2233 • Gilman Co-op Creamery Gilman • 320-387-2770
BROWN COUNTY
• Associated Milk Producers Inc. New Ulm • 507-233-4600 • New Ulm Regional Vet Clinic New Ulm • 507-233-2520
CARVER COUNTY
• Lano Equipment of Norwood Norwood/Young America 952-467-2181 • Bongards’ Bongards • 952-466-5521 • Storms Welding Cologne • 952-466-3343
• Ag Partners Farm Store Cannon Falls • 507-263-4651 Pine Island • 507-356-8313 Wanamingo 507-824-2231 • GB Feed and Supply Bellechester • 651-923-4425 • Midwest Livestock Systems Pine Island • 507-356-8349
KANABEC COUNTY
• East Central Dairy Supply Mora • 320-679-1029 • Fluegge’s Ag Mora • 320-679-2981
KANDIYOHI COUNTY
• D&D Ag Supply & Construction Pennock • 320-599-4466 • Farm-Rite Equipment Willmar • 320-235-3672
LYON COUNTY
• Midwest Ag Marshall • 507-532-2279
MCLEOD COUNTY
• Arnold’s of Glencoe Glencoe • 320-864-5531 St. Martin • 320-548-3285 • Mueller Sales & Service Dairy Equipment Glencoe • 888-205-0974
MEEKER COUNTY
• Farm-Rite Equipment Dassel • 1-888-679-4857 • Form-A-Feed Ag Services LitchÀeld • 320-693-7223 • Mies Equipment Watkins • 1-800-324-8269
MILLE LACS COUNTY
• Farmers Co-op Creamery/ ADM Alliance Nutrition Foreston • 320-294-5711 • First National Bank of Milaca Milaca • 320-983-1333 • Timmer Implement Pease • 320-369-4183
MORRISON COUNTY
• Litke’s Veterinary Service Pierz • 320-468-6666 • Modern Farm Equipment Pierz • 320-468-2161 • Pierz Co-op Pierz • 320-468-6655 • Sunrise Ag Cooperative Buckman • 320-468-6433 Lastrup • 320-468-2543 Little Rock • 320-584-5147 Pierz • 320-468-2168
OLMSTED COUNTY
• Associated Milk Producers Inc. Rochester • 507-282-7401
OTTER TAIL COUNTY
• Nelson Creamery Nelson • 320-762-0115 • Osakis Creamery Assn. 1-800-584-9236 • Pro Ag Farmers Co-op GarÀeld • 320-834-2271
• Bongards’ Perham • 218-346-4680 • J&L Nutrition Perham • 218-205-0174 • PCCA-Country Store Perham • 218-346-7075 • Perham Stockyards Perham • 218-346-3415 • Pro Ag Farmers Co-op in Henning 218-583-2947 • Pro Ag Farmers Co-op in Urbank 218-267-2401
GOODHUE COUNTY
PIPESTONE COUNTY
DAKOTA COUNTY
• Werner Implement Vermillion • 651-437-4435
DOUGLAS COUNTY
• Ag Partners Bellchester • 651-923-4453 Goodhue • 800-732-1439 Wanamingo-Agronomy Location 507-824-2215
• Gorter’s Clay & Dairy Equipment Pipestone • 507-825-3271 • Pipestone Livestock Auction Pipestone • 507-825-3306
STEARNS COUNTY
• A&C Farm Service Paynesville • 320-243-3736 • Ag Venture Feed & Seed, Inc. Watkins • 320-764-9910, 800-779-8910 • Albany Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Albany • 320-845-2801 • Arnold’s of Kimball Kimball • 320-398-3800 • Arnold’s of St. Martin St. Martin • 320-548-3285 • Arnzen Construction/St. Rosa Lumber Freeport, In St. Rosa 320-836-2284 or 1-888-276-1751 • Associated Milk Producers Inc. Paynesville • 320-243-3794 • Centre Dairy Equipment & Supply Inc. Sauk Centre • 320-352-5763 or 1-800-342-2697 • Crop Production Services Sauk Centre • 320-352-6564 • Dairy Star Sauk Centre • 320-352-6303 • Dairyland Supply Sauk Centre 320-352-3987 or 1-800-338-6455 • DHIA Sauk Centre 320-352-2028 or 1-800-369-2697 • Ecker Feed Service, LLC New Munich • 320-837-5249 • Elrosa Grain & Feed Elrosa • 320-697-5515 • Farm-Rite Equipment St. Cloud • 320 240 2085 • Feed Co. Paynesville • 320-243-3938 • Freeport State Bank Freeport •1-800-252-9856 320-836-2126 Greenwald • 320-987-2265 New Munich • 320-837-5297 Melrose • 320-256-7208 • Farm Systems Melrose 1-800-636-5581 • 1-800-247-0012 • Lake Henry Implement Lake Henry • 320-243-7411 • Leedstone Melrose • 1-877-608-3877 • Melrose Implement Inc. Melrose • 320-256-4253 • Modern Farm Equipment Sauk Centre • 320-352-6543
STEELE COUNTY
• Ag Partners Owatonna • 507-413-8000 • Northland Farm Systems Owatonna • 800-385-3911
TODD COUNTY
• Olson’s Custom Farm Service Staples • 800-477-7059 • Pro-Ag Farmers Co-op in Clarissa Clarissa • 218-756-2112 • Pro-Ag Farmers Co-op in Eagle Bend Eagle Bend • 218-738-2552
WABASHA COUNTY
• Ag Partners Farm Store Lake City • 651-345-3328 Plainview • 507-534-2531 • Beck Implement Elgin • 507-876-2122 • Dairyland Equipment Service Plainview • 507-534-3161 • Wingert Sales & Service Plainview • 507-534-4386
WADENA COUNTY
• Aldrich Tractor Inc. Aldrich • 218-445-5430 • Olson’s Custom Farm Service Verndale • 218-445-5500 Sebeka • 218-837-5749
• Pro Dairy Systems Wadena • 218-632-5416
WINONA COUNTY
• Benson Farm Service Lewiston • 507-523-2188 • Elba Coop Elba • 507-796-6571 • S&S Dairy Systems St. Charles • 507-932-4288
WRIGHT COUNTY
• Hobert Sales Inc. Cokato • 320-286-6284, 1-800-820-6455 • The Country Store/ Munson Lakes Nutrition Howard Lake 320-543-3517, 800-663-9177
YELLOW MEDICINE COUNTY
• Equity Elevator Wood Lake • 507-485-3153, 800-248-5427
SOUTH DAKOTA BROOKINGS COUNTY • W.W. Tire Brookings • 605-696-7400
CODINGTON COUNTY • Midwest Ag Supply Watertown • 605-882-2497
HUTCHINSON COUNTY
• Associated Milk Producers Inc. Freeman • 605-925-4234
MINNEHAHA COUNTY • Central Valley Dairy Supply Brandon • 605-467-0812 • Midwest Livestock Systems Sioux Falls • 800-705-1447
ROBERTS COUNTY • Valley Dairy Supply Corona • 605-432-5224
WISCONSIN PEPIN COUNTY
• Anibas Silo & Equipment Durand • 715-285-5317
PIERCE COUNTY
• Western Wisconsin Farm Store Ellsworth • 715-273-5066 • Ag Partners Grange Hall • 715-647-5002
ST. CROIX COUNTY
• Dairyland Farm Services Woodville • 866-467-4717
TREMPEALEAU COUNTY • Associated Milk Producers Inc. Blair • 608-989-2535 • Centerville Cooperative Trempealeau • 608-536-3311 • D&D Farm Supply Arcadia 608-323-7001 or 800-657-6955 • Hegg Mill Ettrick • 608-525-4545
LA CROSSE COUNTY • St. Joseph Equipment LaCrosse • 608-788-1775
VERNON COUNTY
• Premier Cooperative Cashton • 608-654-5416 • Koon Kreek Feeds Coon Valley • 608-452-3838
To view a complete list of participating businesses, log on to www.dairystar.com
*Enter as often as you like. One entry per store visit, please. Winners must be 18 years or older and a Grade A or B dairy farmer for heifer, or 17 years or younger and a son or daughter of a Grade A or B dairy farmer for heifer calf. Winners must also live in the Dairy Star circulation area to be eligible and are responsible for transport of animal.
Page 26 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
Dairy Equipment By
How to make your cows disappear...
Specializing In: • Hot Dipped Galvanized Gating • Fiberglass Gates • Crowd Gates • Parlor Stalls • Free Stalls • Parlor Floors• Parlor Remodels
www.stormsweldingmfg.com
Sell it in the classieds!
952-466-3343 • 513 W. Lake St., Cologne, MN
320-352-6303
GRAIN HANDLING
USED JD EQUIPMENT
John Deere 2840, Diesel with JD 720 allhydraulic Loader This week! $14,500
John Deere 8820, 4WD Combine, hydrostatic -$8,900
John Deere 4020, Narrow front, dinged and dented. Look! It’s a power shift! - $9,000
Brent 876 800/68 R32 Tires, 85% With Roll Tarp - $18,499
J&M 350 with Tarp, 13 Ton Gear, 425 Tires - $4,500
John Deere 893, 8-row corn head, oxbo rolls for snaplege, hyd deck plates -$18,900
J&M 540SD With Brakes, 425 Tires - $9,485 John Deere 956, 13’ hydro-swing discbine, flail conditioning - $11,750
John Deere 3975, Pull-type chopper with hay head $26,500
John Deere 4640, Winter Project! $8,375
John Deere 893, 8-row double drive corn head, plastic snouts $11,500
John Deere 8650, 4WD Articulating Tractor, bare back - $14,500
John Deere 930F, 30-ft flex head, double drive, 3” sections $6,500
J&M 540 Gravity box, roll-up tarp, rear lights and unloading lights, 425/65R22.5 tires - $12,500
USED TRACTORS
Allis 7040 2WD, both PTOs, 2 rear remotes - $8,500
Case 2290 2WD, 540 PTO, NEW 18.4x38 tires - $10,500
Farmall 140 High-clearance, 4-cyl gas, 540 PTO - $3,995
Farmall 300 Good tires, good torque, rear remotes - $3,995
MPP reminder
Friday, Dec. 15 is the nal day to register for 2018 MPP-Dairy coverage if you so choose. All dairy operations have the opportunity to opt-out if they decide that MPP-Dairy coverage is not needed for their operation. Please contact your FSA ofce if you have any questions or would like to register before the deadline. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will process many pending eligible offers for land enrollment in the Conservation Reserve FSA News & Notes Program (CRP), and will temporarily suspend accepting most new offers until later in the 2018 scal year. All current, eligible CRP continuous enrollment offers made through Sept. 30, 2017, except for those made under the Pollinator Habitat Initiative By Ryan Brunn (CP42), will be approved. Stearns Co. Exec. Dir. Additionally, FSA is temporarily suspending acceptance of most offers going forward to provide time to review CRP allocation levels, and to avoid exceeding the statutory cap of 24 million acres. The CRP acreage cap is a provision of the 2014 Farm Bill. Current enrollment is about 23.5 million acres nationwide. USDA is accepting all pending continuous enrollment offers that were made beginning on May 4, 2017, and extending through Sept. 30, 2017, except Pollinator Habitat Initiative offers. Pollinator acreage offers are being declined because the program has met its acreage enrollment goal. Effective immediately, USDA is suspending acceptance of all new CRP continuous offers received or submitted after Sept. 30, 2017. The suspension will continue until later in the 2018 scal year. However, FSA will continue to accept eligible offers for state-specic Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) and CRP Grasslands enrollment. Offers received on or after Oct. 1, 2017, are subject to scal year 2018 rental rates which have been adjusted to reect current market conditions and were established after careful review of the latest USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) cash rent data. In return for enrolling in CRP, USDA, through FSA, provides participants with rental payments and cost-share assistance. Landowners enter into contracts that last between 10 and 15 years. CRP pays farmers and ranchers who remove sensitive lands from production and plant certain grasses, shrubs and trees that improve water quality, prevent soil erosion and increase wildlife habitat. Payment totals for 2017 were announced earlier this week totaling over $1.6 billion. For more information about CRP, contact your FSA ofce or visit www.fsa.usda.gov/crp. Farm Service Agency is an Equal Opportunity Lender. Complaints about discrimination should be sent to: Secretary of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. 20250. Visit the Farm Service Agency Web site at: www.fsa.usda.gov/ for necessary application forms and updates on USDA programs.
Watch what you’ve been missing in your barn! John Deere 535, 12’ side-pull discbine, flail conditioning $8,995
John Deere 945, 14’ centerpivot discbine, flail conditioning $7,995
Ford 5600 4-cyl diesel, 2 remotes, 540 PTO, Nice looking tractor! $8,995
“Models * Years and Hours Shown on All Equipment are Estimated”
IHC 3788 2x2, 1981, 3 remotes, diff lock, 1000 PTO - $12,500
This is just a small portion of our used inventory. Visit our website
www.swiderskiequipment.com/thorp to view the complete list.
715.669.5255 • THORP, WI
BARN CAMERAS
“WILL TRADE ANYTHING, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE” Store Hours: 8-5 M-F / 8-4 Sat.
Box 530 • 201 S Financial St., Thorp, WI 54771 • Doosan • Kioti • New Holland • H&S • Meyer • Meyer’s • Kelly Ryan • Agco (Hwy. 29, North on 73 5 Blocks to Cty X, East 1/2 Mile) • Hesston • Haybuster • Brillion • Agco Massey • Sunflower • Leon • Loyal • Woods
Stop in and see the working in-store display!
Closed circuit video monitoring for your barn, ofÛce and parlor. Wireless System for metal, W Stone or Block barns.
What makes me tick The Transition Pen
By Laura Scholtz & John Rosenhammer Father/Daughter Farming Duo My routine is the same each day. It goes like this: It is 5 in the morning and my alarm says it is time to get up. I cannot believe my good night’s sleep has gone so fast and I am still tired. The perfect scenario would be a quiet, peaceful morning with the brightness and warmth of the sun to energize me. Instead, during this time of the year we cannot avoid cold, darkness and seemingly endless howling wind. A push of the snooze button is an attempt to change the situation, but only delays the inevitable. I used to ask God to help me accomplish what I want to get done for the day. Now I pray for the strength to accept and deal with whatever situation may arise. I have come to believe that He will give us the weather necessary to perform and complete our tasks. It just may take a while. For example, the beautiful 10-day stretch of Indian summer we just experienced. So, the routine continues. Since I live on the farm it is unusual if I am not the rst one to arrive and check the cows. Are there any new mommies today? Did I guess right and have the proper cow in the calving pen, or are there any surprises in the transition or dry cow group ? A new born calf, all clean and shined up by its mother, sitting contently is a beautiful sight. I bow my head in thanks. We have all experienced much less desirable situations. The trip to the parlor can also be challenging. It is dark and cold with only minimal heat. The hoses are stiff and the sound of the metal ination shells echoes even more because of the temperature. Unlike the traditional stanchion barns, cats do not occupy this space; therefore they cannot greet you with their welcome purring. Making my way to the freestall barns, even the cows appear tired. They are resting in stalls and prefer to stay there. They give me the “It’s time to be milked, again?” look as I try to stir them and move them to the holding area. We have all put in long days. Harvest was great but late this year. The fear of the date on the calendar and the cold forecast put a lot of pressure on tillage and those who do it. It seems like we just get done hours before that game ending frost hits. Then we had a week of nger freezing winterizing that just had to be completed. Physically and emotionally spent, we are given 10 days of Indian summer. Instead of being content and resting, we nd yet another project or two that will make next year easier, right? So the cycle continues, all with good intentions of course. Through all this I was exhausted and running out of fuel. Due to various uncontrollable circumstances, I was accumulating a long streak of consecutive milkings, both morning and night. I had reached the point when the load was getting overwhelming and less enjoyable; I needed something motivating. “Dad, why don’t you take the rest of the day off and go Christmas shopping with Mom?” were Laura’s uplifting words one morning. Not that I was getting evening chores off, but the fact that she cared enough to want Mom and I to have a day together made it special. Now that’s what makes me tick. I have a close friend and neighbor who appreciates the two-cylinder John Deere tractor, more out of respect for our previous generations than anything. He saved 10 acres to plow and had the cornstalks baled off just to ensure our plows would not plug. The day we went to have our fun was cold and windy. We were determined the weather would not prevent us from having our fun. We spent the afternoon chasing each other around the eld. I had my dad’s rst big tractor, a 1949 G and a 3-bottom plow. He wanted to have his dad’s 730 on his plow, but settled for an enclosed cab tractor. Every ve rounds or so we would switch out tractors and take a chance to warm up. The satisfaction we experienced, the sound of the popping
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 27
two-cylinders and an afternoon of reliving what our fathers had gone through gave us another cherished memory. Appreciating and reliving the past for a day with my neighbor, Lorin. Now that’s what makes me tick. And when we nished, Mary and Becca delivered fresh baked chocolate chip cookies right from the oven. Now that’s what makes me tick. Going out of our way to visit or listen to the elderly or sick is never a one-way experience. The elderly are lonely and feel forgotten. Bernice is 93 and has been a widow for nearly 20 years. Her youngest daughter was in high school with me, and I try to stop by her house at least once a year. I am always amazed by the wisdom and encouragement she shares. At a recent school fundraiser, Bernice sent her daughter over telling me that, “Her mom wanted to see me before she left.” Going over to see her face light up and hug me when we met was another one of those teachable moments. Bernice’s face lit up with a huge smile. Now that’s what makes me tick.
It has been one of those weeks where the vet has been here more often than the milk truck. Things happen that we just cannot control, but can always learn from. After a week like this, it’s always comforting to come home at night to a warm house, good food, a supportive wife and a loving family. All issues from the day seem to be forgotten once I pass through the door and into our home. Receiving one of those genuine smiles from Ava, our 7-month-old granddaughter, is another one of those moments that makes me tick. With Advent upon us and Christmas coming soon, it is a good time to reect on how abundantly we have been blessed by God. I wonder if our humble hearts, full of gratitude, present in church on Christmas Day, are what makes Jesus tick? Merry Christmas! John Rosenhammer farms with his daughter, Laura Schotz, on Roseview Dairy near Sleepy Eye, Minn. They milk 200 Holsteins and run 580 acres of cropland.
More Calcium. More Palatability. More Value. Transition cow care should be calculated, not complicated. Administering a TRANSITION™ calcium bolus before and after calving delivers 44 calculated grams* of immediate and sustained release calcium from three proven sources. Each TRANSITION™ calcium bolus is manufactured using a patented, calculated process for easy administration, better palatability and quick dissolution. For the most value in every calcium bolus, make a calculated decision with TRANSITION™. It’s as easy as 1+1.
1-800-447-0687 | www.TransitionBolus.com © 2017. TRANSITION is a trademark of MAI Animal Health. Always read and follow label directions. *176 gram TRANSITION bolus. Smaller 88 gram bolus also available.
Page 28 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
Betty Berning bberning@umn.edu 320-203-6104 Luciano Caixeta lcaixeta@umn.edu 612-625-3130 Hugh Chester-Jones chest001@umn.edu (507) 835-3622 Gerard Cramer gcramer@umn.edu 612-625-8184 Marcia Endres miendres@umn.edu (612) 624-5391 Sandra Godden godde002@umn.edu 612-625-8177 Les Hansen hanse009@umn.edu 612-624-2277 Brad Heins hein0106@umn.edu (320) 589-1711 Kevin Janni kjanni@umn.edu (612) 625-3108 Karen Johnson ande9495@umn.edu 320-484-4334 Brenda Miller nels4220@umn.edu (320) 732-4435 Kota Minegishi kota@umn.edu 612-624-7455 Randy Pepin pepin019@umn.edu (320) 333-1369 Erin Royster royster@umn.edu Jim Salfer salfe001@umn.edu (320) 203-6093 M. Scott Wells mswells@umn.edu 612-625-3747 Emily Wilmes krek0033@umn.edu (320) 255-6169
www.extension.umn.edu/dairy
The role of forage in stretching your dollar on the dairy
As dairy farm managers plan for 2018, they should consider their goals for protability and determine their strategies to meet these goals. To help with some of these thought processes, the University of Minnesota Extension Dairy Team and Midwest Dairy Initiative will host a Winter Dairy Series touching on a breadth of topics. February’s event features “Stretching Your Dollar on the Dairy,” presented by South Central College Farm Business Management Instructor Pam Uhlenkamp. Uhlenkamp’s talk will relay strategies on how a farmer can utilize resources he or she already has in order to By Claire LaCanne save money. These strategies include how to U of M Extension conduct farm analyses, how to improve milk production and quality, and various ideas on lowering input costs. My educational background is in crop production, thus Uhlenkamp’s topic brings to my mind the importance of forage on a dairy operation. Feeding forage can help lower off-farm input costs, and feeding high quality forage is a sound strategy for increasing milk yield. Lowering input costs and increasing milk yield are tactics to optimize cost-effectiveness, and feeding quality forage can help accomplish either or both of these objectives. Forage can reduce off-farm input costs and can supply energy, protein, starch, neutral detergent ber (NDF) and minerals for livestock. The key management factors that inuence forage quantity and quality include time of harvest, proper plant and soil nutrition, and inclusion of diverse plants in a forage stand. Harvesting on time is an important factor in producing high quality forage. The crude protein and digestible dry matter of hay decrease as plants mature, especially beyond bud stage in alfalfa. Leaf growth in alfalfa is generally maximized at bud stage, after which the stems continue to elongate, increasing the portion of stem material, which is lower in digestibility than the leaves. Optimum harvest dates will vary by location and plant species, so producers must watch the growth stage of the forage on their own operation to determine when to start making rst cut hay. In general, hay should be harvested when legumes are in the late bud growth stage and grasses are in the late boot to early head emergence stage. These stages provide the best compromise between yield and quality. Paul Liebenstein, co-owner of Wolf Creek Dairy in Dundas, Minn., has a few insights on forage use and quality. On their 400-head operation, the Liebensteins watch their forage to ensure the timing is right, and they get their
forage up when it is at peak quality. He likes to use forage to ensure that their cows yield high quality milk. “We try to feed a diet high in forage because fat and protein pay the bills, and higher quality forage equals healthier cows,” Liebenstein said. For the purpose of correct timing, Eric Kinsley, South Central College Farm Business Instructor, sees an increasing number of producers utilizing wet hay or baleage; in other words, wrapping hay the day it is harvested to keep quality and timing consistent. Ensuring that plants have proper nutrition is also critical to high yield and quality forage. Soil testing is an important tool for maintaining sufcient soil fertility. Keeping track of which elds have adequate fertility is important. “We make sure to put the manure on the right elds – the elds that really need it – to make sure we are maximizing our nitrogen credits,” said Liebenstein. Indeed, it makes sense to prioritize lower fertility elds while deciding where to apply manure or other fertilizers. Manure, compost, mineral applications, crop rotations and cover crops can address nutrient needs and build soil organic matter for longer term nutrient supply. Among several producers in the area, the Liebensteins have been experimenting with using cover crops and being conservative with tillage to minimize soil compaction and increase soil organic matter. The goal is to eventually lower input costs on their elds by fostering healthier soil, which requires fewer inputs. In addition to soil health inputs, producers should consider input costs of the plants themselves. The Liebensteins use fertilizer they already have on hand – manure. However, they also purchase corn seed that has fewer traits and treatments to lower the expense of the seed. This reduction in seed treatments or traits in your seed is one strategy for lowering your input costs; it is wise to critically examine your needs for treated and trait seed as you plan for 2018. Legumes such as alfalfa and clover are benecial to include in forage stands for a few reasons. Legumes x nitrogen from the air into the soil and make it available to the grasses, often increasing grass yields, if you choose to incorporate grasses into your forage. Legumes also increase the feed value by improving protein, energy and digestibility, and a legume and grass. Following these steps to ensure high quality forage is a feasible method for lowering the input costs on your dairy and potentially increasing milk yield. These ideas, among others, will be touched upon at the Winter Dairy Series event “Stretching Your Dollar on the Dairy”, hosted by the University of Minnesota Extension Dairy Team and Midwest Dairy Initiative, on Feb. 12 beginning at noon at the State Bank of New Prague, Minn.
Gifts for every cow on your list! RITCHIE WATERERS & HEATERS
JAMESWAY SILO UNLOADERS & MANURE HANDLING EQUIPMENT
TJ’S FENCING FIBERGLASS FENCING & GATES
CALF-TEL INDOOR CALF PENS
THANKS FOR YOUR PATRONAGE.
(507) 534-3855
WWW.KBSCOMPANIES.COM
Visualize your competitive position
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 29
Benchmarking is important in any business. Most dairy producers use the Income Over Feed Cost (IOFC), or milk revenues minus feed costs, as one of the most important benchmarking measures. Dairy extension at the University of Minnesota is developing a novel benchmarking tool that will help you visualize your competitive positions in the IOFC and other key metrics in your By Kota Minegishi dairy operation. U of M Asst. Professor Loaded with the 2016 FINBIN dairy data (on a per cow basis), a prototype of the Dairy Visual Benchmark (DVB) is now available at https://z.umn. edu/visualbenchmark. Following is a preview of this new tool. Like the FINBIN statistics report, the DVB is a tool for dairy producers and consultants to evaluate operational efciency among peer producers. However, the DVB takes a different approach to presenting data from the FINBIN report in that it is a visual representation of the following relationship: Net Income = IOFC – Capital and Labor Cost – Other Net Cost Where IOFC is the milk revenue minus feed cost, capital and labor cost is the sum of capital and labor costs, and other net cost is all other dairy enterprise costs minus all other sources of dairy enterprise revenues. The purpose is to assist producers in highlevel strategic decision-making through data visualization.
Three data plots are used to visualize the above relationship. The rst plot presents the IOFC data, comparing the milk revenue and the feed cost per cow. In Figure 1, the dataset is selected for conventional farms with herd size groups of 51 to 100 cows (orange symbols) and 101 to 200 cows (green symbols). The orange and green lines are the average levels of IOFC for each herd size group at $1,573 and $1,885, respectively. Visualizing data may provoke a series of questions. Where would your farm be located in the data plot? Would it be above or below these lines? How would it compare to other farms in the same herd size group and those in larger herd size groups? Are there many farms that were generating less milk revenues but a higher IOFC than your farm? Are there many farms that were incurring higher feed costs and a higher IOFC than your farm? Where do you see your farm going in the next ve years? (See Figure 1) The IOFC is an important metric, but is not a complete picture of farm protability. The DVB uses two additional data plots to help you assess where the comparative advantage and disadvantage of your farm may lie. Figure 2 is a diagram that depicts the relationship of the three data plots. In Figure 2, Plot 2 shows the capital-labor tradeoff relationship. Some farms are more capital-intensive, and others are more labor-intensive than the average. Adopting appropriate labor-saving technologies and critically assessing each investment are keys to efcient dairy production. Plot 3 brings together the IOFC and everything else for visualizing net income per cow. Maximizing the IOFC is not your only goal. To
generate positive prots, a farm must stay competitive in the total cost of production. (See Figure 2) Even a quick glance at the FINBIN data will show you that, on average, larger farms are doing better; this is consistent with the national, long-term industry trend toward consolidation. Large farms tend to have natural advantages in economies of scale in the facility, crop operation, labor management and purchasing power. However, not all large-scale farms are efcient. As dairy farms of all sizes have to compete to produce positive prot margins, producing at a large quantity alone is not sufcient to succeed. As the data show, small- to medium-scale farms that produce relatively high margins can be competitive.
One important aspect of these data plots is to look beyond the averages and update your beliefs on what is possible at the individual producer level. In any herd size class, there are efcient producers who nd ways to make their dairy enterprise economically successful. Strategic decision-making can benet from having a bird’s eye view of the data and a clear and bold vision for the operation. It is a fact that 2016 was a tough year for many dairy farms, but it may well be the norm for the next ve to 10 years. The data plots show that some farms were doing well in this environment so there is reason to be hopeful, but also proactive. Benchmarking may be the key to nding the competitive edge for your farm.
Figure 2 Tool Structure
Coulee Ridge Robotics
Figure 1 Income Over Feed Cost Data Plot
THE NO COMPROMISE FABRIC STRUCTURE DAIRY, MACHINERY & HAY STORAGE
Your Lely & Mueller Cooling Dealer!
Jackson
Juneau
Single and Truss Arch available from 20’-120’ wide Flo-Coat® Galvanized Steel Tubing Supplied by Allied Tube & Conduit Heaviest gauge steel in the industry Pre-engineered truss buildings
Richland
NELSON’S AGRI STRUCTURES
Dean Nelson • Central and Northern Minnesota • Grove City, MN • 320-857-2633, Cell 320-699-3297
RIVERSIDE HOOP BARNS, INC.
US Hwy. 75 At IA/MN Stateline • Steen, MN • 507-392-2870 • Fred A. Tilstra & Sons
LANGE CONSTRUCTION & CONCRETE
Coulee Ridge Robotics
Duke Lange • Swanville, MN • 320-290-0859
LAKESIDE HOOP STRUCTURES, LLC
Eastern Minnesota and Wisconsin • Harris, MN • 651-248-6302 • Craig Moline
ASK US ABOUT GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR HAY STORAGE
Adams
La Crosse Monroe Vernon
Commercial Agri Buildings
WE ALSO SELL REPLACEMENT TARPS!
Buffalo
Trempealeau
A Division of Fitzgerald Inc.
PH:
2401 S Black River St. Sparta, WI 54656 aolerud@couleeridge.com
608-632-1688
T’ermerwear season Page 30 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
It’s been cold out there lately. consistency of chocolate pudding. At times like these, when the mere word “cold” The simple act of going outdoors is a major doesn’t seem to do justice to the situation, we undertaking during deeply cold weather. By the time Northerners tend to concoct sayings like, “It’s colder you get all those layers of clothing pulled on, zipped than polar bear snot,” or “It up and buckled down, you was so cold this morning, can empathize with what Dad d was always l on guard d ffor the dog actually tinkled D an astronaut goes through when he tinkled.” when he dons a spacesuit. frigid weather. He was a big These are times that try Dad was always on men’s souls, not to mention believer in thermal underwear guard for frigid weather. He their tractors and pickups. or “t’ ermerwear as he called it. was a big believer in thermal When it’s this cold – when underwear or “t’ermerwear” common decency dictates as he called it. He would that you keep your brass put on his t’ermerwear monkey indoors at night – those who tend to livestock sometime about the rst of September and wouldn’t every day must fret about frozen fountains and the take it off until July. gel point of diesel fuel. Every morning, we wonder if I never became quite that attached to my that engine will start despite the fact that its oil is the t’ermerwear. Even so, during prolonged cold snaps, I
Happy Holidays From All Of Us At Valmetal
CONTACT THESE DEALERSFOR MORE INFORMATION: ALTHOFF SALES & SERVICE, INC. Bangor, WI • 608-486-2032 ANAMOSA SILO REPAIR LLC Maquoketa, IA • 563-652-5125 ANIBAS SILO & EQUIPMENT, INC. Arkansaw, WI • 715-285-5317 BINDL SALES & SERVICE Reedsburg, WI • 608-524-6339 BLUE RIVER HARVESTOR REPAIR, INC. Blue River, WI • 1-800-932-4749 CHIPPEWA FARM SERVICE LLC Chippewa Falls, WI • 715-382-5400 D&D FARM SUPPLY, INC. Arcadia, WI • 608-323-7001
D&K SALES & SERVICE Ossian, IA • 563-380-7006 DAIRYLAND SUPPLY INC. Sauk Centre, MN • 800-338-6455 EASTERN IOWA STRUCTURE SERVICES Ft. Atkinson, IA • 1-888-303-4445 ELMA SILO Elma, IA • 641-393-8421 FIELD SILO & EQUIPMENT, INC. Mt. Horeb, WI • 608-437-5561 • www.fieldsilo.com FLUEGGE’S BADGER SALES Mora, MN • 320-679-2981 HANSON SILO COMPANY Lake Lillian, MN • 1-800-843-7456 www.hansonsilo.com
HIGHWAY 48 FARM SERVICE, INC. Rice Lake, WI • 715-234-6788 HOOVER SILO REPAIR LLC Withee, WI • 715-229-2527 K & R EQUIPMENT, INC. Fountain, MN • 507-268-4425 MAKI FARM SERVICES Curtiss, WI • Edgar, WI 715-613-7308 RISTAU FARM SERVICE Preston, MN • 507-765-3873 RUF’S FARM SERVICE, INC. Darlington, WI • 608-776-4048
became so accustomed to my long handles that I felt as if I’d been skinned when I didn’t have them on. This cold phobia is rooted deep in my childhood. As a youngster, I was expected to help with daily chores on our dairy farm. I was duly outtted with t’ermerwear just like Dad’s – with shorter Dear County Agent Guy limbs, of course. I read that in days of yore, kids were often sewn into their wintertime clothing in the fall and left in them until spring. That would have been ne with me, but my parents insisted that I strip down every Saturday night and By Jerry Nelson take a bath – even if I Columnist didn’t need one. It was tough to take a Saturday night bath as midwinter squalls gibbered at the windowpane. Looking at the window, I knew that cold – bone-chilling, life-snufng cold – lurked on the other side of that thin layer of glass. What if the window suddenly shattered? Within moments, I would be turned into a life-sized kidsicle. Just thinking of it made me shiver. My discomture didn’t end there. Come Sunday morning, I was expected to attend church and Sunday school. For this I had to wear my Sundaysuit, which consisted of polyester pants, a complementing polyester shirt and polyester jacket. This torturous ensemble was crowned with a necktie which, to me, felt like a polyester noose. Since it was Sunday, I wasn’t allowed to wear my second skin, AKA, my t’ermerwear. I was told that this was because it was the Sabbath and that long underwear fell into the everyday clothes category. In the few seconds it took to walk from our house to the car, my polyester pant legs would freeze into inexible stovepipes. A gust of wind would create a frosty updraft, robbing my legs of their last vestiges of precious warmth. It was enough to make me wish we were atheists. As a boy, in the middle of one particularly frigid winter night, I arose to use the bathroom. Pausing by a frosty upstairs window, I looked out at our farmstead as it slumbered in the frozen moonlight. Down in the barn, I could hear the sound of a cow jingling her stanchion. A plume of steam rose silently from the barn’s cupola. It seemed as if the entire icebound planet were hibernating. Somewhere out in the grove, there came the sharp “pop” of a tree trunk splitting from the frost. A few moments later I recognized the eerie, whinnying cry of a screech owl. I shivered, but not entirely because of the cold. We kids had been told that owls are privy to secrets concerning death and ghosts. The owl’s cry doubtless meant that someone nearby was about to croak. I crawled back into bed wondering who it might be. The next morning, I stepped into the crisp predawn stillness to begin chores. From directly behind me, a loud “Who! Who!” boomed out, totally scaring the bejeebers out of me. Gathering my shattered wits, I glanced up to see a great horned owl perched on our rooftop TV antenna. I was suddenly seized by the urge to run back inside and put on yet another layer of t’ermerwear. Because if an owl takes one look at you and pegs you for a goner, then baby, it’s cold outside. Jerry is a recovering dairy farmer from Volga, S.D. He and his wife, Julie, have two grown sons and live on the farm where Jerry’s great-grandfather homesteaded over 110 years ago. Jerry currently works full time for the Dairy Star as a staff writer/ad salesman. Feel free to E-mail him at: jerry.n@ dairystar.com.
Wood
Shavings BULK
OR
BAG
S&S Wood Products
35335 Green Street | Independence, WI 54747
800-234-5893 | 715-985-3122
Dairy Star online: 10 years later
It was quite by accident that I happen to stumble across the anniversary date. I was on my way to work one day this past October. I called my dad before going into the ofce to wish him a happy birthday. That’s when it hit me – Oct. 25, 2007 – was the day Dairy Star made its ofcial online debut. I knew at the time I would always remember the initial launch – it was the same day as my dad’s birthday. That date not only marked Dairy Star’s introduction to the Internet, it was also the beginning of a long string of events – events that at the time I could not have predicted. The website has led to other online presences and opportunities that have connected our readers and all the dairy industry. In September this year, we launched a brand new website. It still features all the information from the previous version of the website including articles from the print edition, classied ads and E-editions. These sections continue to be the most popular parts of our site. The redesigned site makes it easier to navigate and gives Dairy Star online a refreshed and modern look. We hope you are enjoying the new site and continue to By Andrea Borgerding visit. The site has become a great compliment to our Online Editor print edition. What started out as new undertaking for myself personally, has become a routine for thousands of visitors. But, I will never forget the feeling I had when I saw my initial design of sketches on a piece of paper go live on the world wide web. Several years after the launch of the web site, we made Dairy Star go social with the launch of our Facebook page. We continued the tradition of strengthening the dairy community by creating a platform of which dairy producers can connect. Our Facebook page now has over 5,000 followers. It has spread breaking news, called out for help for dairy farmers, promoted dairy products and reached out to producers who have done tremendous things in the industry. It has guided us to meeting amazing people who we would otherwise not as easily be able to track down. Having an online presence has allowed us to provide a platform for dairy producers who choose to share their dairy journey with a blog. Shortly after launching our website, we invited dairy farmDairy St r Milk Break er Sadie Frericks to share her story of farming and raising a family. Her stories www.dairystar.com sparked tremendous interest and began a wave of transparency with which farmers can share messages of life on a dairy farm. Today, Brenda Rudolph continues to blog for Dairy Star. Brenda shares the joys and challenges of raising a family and continuing her family’s dairy farming tradition. Last spring, Dairy Star launched the Milk Break Newsletter. Once a week, we email out a newsletter with current dairy news items, sneak peeks at the upcoming print edition of Dairy Star, feel good quotes, recipes and photo submissions. It’s another compliment to Dairy Star’s mission to relay dairy news and bring community to the dairy industry. If you have not yet received Milk Break, please email me (andrea.b@dairystar.com) or visit our website and click on Signup for Newsletter in the top navigation bar. What does the future hold for Dairy Star? Looking back 10 years ago, I wouldn’t have predicted where we are today. Whatever the future is for Dairy Star it is sure to bring a new, exciting challenge for us.
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 31
TRACTORS
JD 9460R, 2013 ..................................$229,900 JD 8285R, IVT, 1333 hrs ....................$169,900 JD 8235R, 2013, 1650 hrs...................$149,900 JD 8235R, 2012, 2416 hrs...................$134,900 JD 8235R, ‘12, 2213 hrs. ....................$134,900 JD 8120, 10,000 hrs ..............................$69,900 JD 4955, ‘91, 3275 hrs ..........................$44,000 JD 6175R w/loader .............................$114,900 JD 6170R w/loader .............................$114,900 JD 6170R, IVT ....................................$109,900 JD 6145M, ‘16, ldr., MFWD.................$89,900 JD 6145M MFWD, cab, loader ready...$79,900 JD 6130R, ‘16, ldr., MFWD .................$94,900 JD 4440 1982, PS..................................$22,900 JD 7810, MFWD, ‘97, PS .....................$54,900 JD 4020S1966 OLD ..........................................$9,900 JD 2750 W/loader, MFWD ...................$14,900 JD 2750, 2-wheel ..................................$13,900 JD 2040, MFWD w/loader....................$14,900 NH T8030, front duals ..........................$99,900 CASE 1570, cab, duals, PS trans ..........$10,900 IH 966, cab, loader, 5560 hrs. ...............$10,900
COMBINES
JD S670, 1018 hrs., 2013 ....................$249,900 JD S670, 1756 hrs., 2012 ....................$169,000 JD S660, 2014 .....................................$239,900 JD S660, 870 hrs., 2014 ......................$214,900 JD 9660, 2006, RWA.............................$99,900 SOLDRWA.............................$99,900 JD 9660, 2004,
Dairy St r Milk Break
The Leader In Feeders!
1947-2017 70 Years of Excellent Service!
Watkins, MN
320-764-5310
JD 9660, 2WD, 2006 ............................$84,900 JD 9560, ‘04, 2WD ...............................$79,900 JD 9550, S2WD, OLD walker, 2001 ................$59,900 JD 9500, ‘01, 2WD ...............................$23,900 Many heads to choose from ....................... Call
HAY EQUIPMENT
JD W235, 14’, rubber..........................$136,900 JD W235R, 16’, tri lobe, 160 hrs ........$139,900 MacDon R80, 13’, steel rolls ................$21,900 2) JD 569 Premium ........... Starting at $29,900 3) JD 569, sruface wrap, big tires............................ Starting at $29,900 3) JD 568, twine ................ Starting at $16,900 JD 530, twine ..........................................$4,500 JD 469 Premium, 2014 .........................$38,000 4) JD 469 SP, wrap, big tires Starting at $29,900 JD 459 w/wrap ......................................$28,900 JD 468 w/wrap ......................................$22,900 Case IH 464, twine................................$15,900 2) Vermeer 605SM , 2013 .....................$25,900 NH BR780A, wrap................................$12,900 NH 330 big square, 2013 ......................$89,900 JD 3955, 2007 .......................................$12,900 New & Used heads to choose from............ Call
PLANTERS
JD 1760 NT, 2012, row shut off, Vari. ..$56,900 JD 1760, 2003, 12 row, VAC, Liq Fert .$39,900 JD 1760, 1996, 12 row, 2x2, Liq Fert ...$33,900 JD 1750, 1998, 8 row, Dry Fert ............$15,900 JD 1750, 8 row, dry, 2014 .....................$39,900 JD 1750, 8 row, low acres, dry fert .......$28,900 JD 1750, 1998, 8-row, dry fert ..............$15,900 JD 1750, 6 row, liq. fert ........................$13,900 JD 7200, 12 row, 3 bu., liq. fert ............$18,900 JD 7000, liq. fert, 8 row ..........................$5,900 JD 7000, 6 row, dry fert ..........................$6,900
IInventory changing daily at miesoutland.com
1-800-324-8269
As the sun sets on another hard and rewarding day, know that we respect and admire the work you do and the sacrifices you make. It is in the earth where you pour your heart and soul, and for that we are truly blessed.
Thank you.
In standard lengths from 12’-36’
ARROW FRONT® FEEDER WAGON
Thirty years of building cattle feeders has given S.I. Feeders a lot of experience in making a strong durable cattle feeder with many feed saving advantages. The Arrow Front feeder has excelled with the test of time and continues to set an example for the industry. Contact your nearest dealer listed below for a new color brochure and information on the complete line of feeders. Mfg. By
N 5820 Johnson Road • Portage, WI 53901 • (608) 742-8851
S.I. Feeders Available At The Following Dealers... Hammell Equipment ChatÀeld, MN Rushford, MN Eitzen, MN Harmony, MN
United Farmers Coop Lafayette, MN Waconia, MN Gaylord, MN Norseland, MN
1.800.247.1922 | stearnsbank.com | follow us
Hire it out or do it ourselves? Page 32 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
I think round baling is fun; it’s part of harvesting We have our baby heifer calves custom raised. a crop. All farmers want to harvest, whether it’s I know all good dairy farmers should be excellent milking a cow, picking fresh sweet corn or running calf raisers, but I never was one of them, so when a combine. Do I get to run a round baler? No, I a neighbor asked me about custom raising baby don’t even own one. calves for us, I jumped Dairy farms of all sizes at the opportunity. The Dairy i ffarms off all ll sizes i fface face decisions about what D next challenge were the to hire out and what to do decisions about what to hire calves from 8 weeks old internally with family and to 12 months old that were hired staff. I don’t think out and what to do internally scattered around the farm there are two dairy farms with family and hired staff. in odd old buildings with anywhere that do it exactly poor ventilation and small the same. There is no right door openings. When a or wrong; it’s usually a case of what has evolved good friend, Seth, asked about building a new over the years, driven by nances and labor bedded pack barn for those calves, I couldn’t sign availability. There are even cases of small dairies the agreement fast enough. hiring the larger dairy next door to deliver a daily We do milk our own cows, feed our own cows TMR to their cows instead of investing in land, feed and raise our own heifers after they reach 1 year of storage, loaders and mixers. age. This works for us because older heifers can be
THE PERFECT FOOTBATH
STARTS HERE.
Improve footbath accuracy and reduce costs with the AgroChem Footbath Dosing System. • ACCURATE – Fills bath with correct amount of water and footbath concentrate every time. • SAVES MONEY – Drastically cuts costs with continuous-replenish feature. • SAFE – Reduces employee interaction with chemicals. • CONSISTENT – Automation ensures that footbaths are filled on a routine schedule.
Suggested for use with HEALMAX® or DURAHOOF products
Stratford, WI Tulare, CA Amarillo, TX Saratoga Springs, NY Ontario, Canada
518.226.4850 • agrocheminc.com
fed with our TMR wagon, and we can even blend in some clean up cow feed into their ration. We utilize some older feedlot facilities on rented and owned farms that are 5 miles away from the main dairy. This is cumbersome at times, but the manure Making Cents of Dairy is nice to have close to that land. We have not been tempted, however, to buy our own liquid manure equipment for the lagoons at the dairy. We started out owning our own liquid manure tanker and pump, but soon realized we needed to hire a company with By Dave Vander Kooi a drag hose as it was Columnist just too much. This year our bill for drag hosing, pumping and agitation was $280,000. They came with lots of equipment, worked hard for two weeks and all the while we hardly knew they were there. Besides that, we are busy combining high moisture corn for the cows, chopping earlage for neighbors and combining soybeans. Perhaps our offset to the manure bill is we installed drainage tile on 270 acres this fall. We worked all November into early December on this project. We put in 240,000 feet of pattern tile spaced every 50 feet. If we would have hired it done the bill would have matched the manure bill. Yes, we need a tile plow, two stringers and a mini excavator for that work, but it’s less messy than liquid manure equipment. Some days out stringing tile in that cold bitter wind was not fun though. Personal preference has probably led us to doing our own planting, spraying, chopping and combining. When I was growing up, we had such a small farm that we hired all those things done. So, my goal was to at least have enough acres and cows to justify having those tools to efciently farm in a timely manner. Then sometimes when you have those tools you take on more work, which demands bigger and better tools. I always tell the younger generation that when I retire I’m going to have a retirement farm. Thirty cows on grass, no baby calves and a small tractor with a round baler. Dave operates a 1,200-cow, 3,000 acre farm with his son, Joe, and daughter-in-law, Rita, near Worthington, Minn. Send him feedback at davevkooi@hotmail.com Follow him on Instagram, @davevanderkooi.
DAIRY STAR E-EDITION
FREE www.dairystar.com Ask about a farm irrigation system today!
Les Kuehl
Repair Service
We can’t predict the weather so having an irrigation well and system in your fields is like having insurance. If your current system is in need of repair or if you are considering replacing or installing a new irrigation system, call Traut Wells today!
20+ Years Experience
We drill farm irrigation wells year round! Well Drilling • Testing and Treatment • Sprinkler Systems 24 Hour Emergency Service • Pump Service and Repair Commercial and Residential We Know Water from the Bottom to the Tap
320-251-5090 or 800-728-5091 141 28th Avenue South, Waite Park • trautcompanies.com
• Sealed silo parts & service • Stainless steel roofs • Feeders & conveyors • Stainless steel conveyor chains • Best chains on the market • Early maintenance service checks • Used and rebuilt unloaders Not afÀliated with the Harvestore brand
320-760-2909
Eve. 320-762-1827 No Emergency Charges--Ever!
tfn
Ten important improvements
Because each dairy farm has its own unique formula for success, we can learn a lot by talking with other dairy farmers and visiting their farms. Minnesota Milk’s Mentorship Program creates these learning opportunities for college students interested in dairy farming. We had the privilege of once again participating in the program this year as mentors. We met our mentee, Austin, last week. As part of Dairy Good Life his visit, we gave Austin a tour of our farm; explained our systems for managing cows, calves and crops; and answered his questions about dairy farming. Austin asked great questions. Judging from our conversation, I believe he has the single most important trait necessary for successful future in dairy farming: a desire to constantly improve. Sometimes we make big improvements to our farms and our management systems. Sometimes we make little improvements. But the key is that we’re always looking for ways to be better. As we visited with Austin, we talked a lot about the improvements we’ve made here on our farm in By Sadie Frericks the past 12 years. Columnist It’s impossible to rank these improvements in order of importance or impact on our farm, but here are 10 improvements we’ve made that are now important components of our management systems. Of course, there are dozens more, but I’ll save those for another column. 1. Three-quart calf bottles. I can still remember how crazy worried I was about feeding calves more than two quarts of milk per feeding – the standard I grew up with. But the decision to feed three quarts of milk twice a day (six quarts per day) was one that improved our calf rearing in two big ways: healthier calves (as measured by fewer calves treated and fewer calves lost during the neonatal period) and bigger calves at weaning. (And now with the calf feeder, we know that calves can safely consume way more than six quarts/liters per day.) 2. ScourGuard 4KC. We lost some of our very rst calves to E. coli the year we started farming. Our veterinarian recommended ScourGuard 4KC (it was 3KC then) and we started using the dry cow vaccine immediately. We haven’t had a case of E. coli since then. Plus, our calves have better immunity against rotavirus, coronavirus and clostridium. 3. Esophagus feeder for colostrum. We rarely use an esophagus feeder for anything else, but we always use it for calves’ rst feeding of colostrum. Using it allows us to ensure that each calf gets a gallon of colostrum as soon as possible after birth. A full gallon of colostrum – especially from cows and heifers vaccinated with ScourGuard – is the rst step toward building calves’ immune systems. Plus, colostrum contains a number of other growth promotion factors that benet calves. 4. Calf warmer. Every minute a newborn calf shivers, she loses energy that could be devoted to health and growth. Before we got our calf warmer, we toweldried calves (as much as a calf can be dried with a towel) and buried them in straw. It still took most of a day for them to dry. Now our calves spend a couple hours in the warmer and come out warm, dry and uffy. Our calf warmer saves calves, our time/energy and laundry. 5. Stomach pump. This tool, possibly more than any other, has maintained and improved the health of our cows. Fresh cows get oral uids with calcium to balance mineral levels after calving. Sick cows get oral uids with Glen’s special rumen health formula to maintain hydration and keep rumen bugs alive. Glen was scared to use a pump at rst, but after proper training and seeing how much oral uids benet cows, it’s now his rst choice for helping cows. 6. bioPRYN: blood pregnancy testing. Improving herd reproduction requires knowing which cows are pregnant and which cows are open as soon as possible after breeding. Before we switched to blood samples for pregnancy testing, we often limited pregnancy checks to once a month or even less frequently. It didn’t make sense to schedule a herd health check for three eligible cows. Now we check cows as often as we need to by simply dropping blood samples off in town. 7. DHIA testing. It’s hard to measure improvement without numbers. DHIA testing gives us production, component and milk quality numbers for every cow. Using DHIA’s scout herd management program also keeps individual cow data at our ngertips, which has also helped us improve reproduction. Lastly, we used DHIA’s milk Johne’s testing service to eradicate Johne’s disease from our herd. 8. Farm Business Management program. I’ll say it again: It’s hard to measure improvement without numbers. Our participation in FBM helps us distill our income and expenses down into numbers that we can use to evaluate the nancial health of our farm. Each year we add performance data that allows us to identify trends and areas for improvement. Ultimately, FBM has helped us become better businesspeople. 9. PCMars. PCMars is the bookkeeping program we use to assemble data for our balance sheet, nancial analysis and cash ow. We used a different bookkeeping program prior to PCMars and have found that PCMars is much better suited to farm businesses. Financial decisions are only as strong as the numbers that go into them; PCMars has improved the accuracy and categorization of our income and expenses. 10. Patriot Software. This service is one of the newest improvements we’ve made. I found it when I was looking for an easier way to do payroll. The service makes pay day as easy as 1-2-3 and tallies the federal and state taxes we need to report and pay. In all, it means I spend less time managing payroll and more time on important tasks. We’re looking forward to visiting Austin’s farm later this winter and learning from his experiences. Sadie and her husband, Glen, milk 75 cows near Melrose, Minn. They have three children – Dan, 10, Monika, 7, and Daphne, 4. Sadie also writes a blog at www.dairygoodlife.com. She can be reached at sadiefrericks@gmail.com.
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 33
Todd’s Toyland is Open! • • • • •
TOYS TTOY YS YS
TONKA A • PETERBILT JOHN DEERE • AND MORE!! NEW HOLLAND CASE IH ALLIS CHALMERS
Tis the Season Tuesdays
December 12 & 19
IN-STORE SPECIALS & FOOD SAMPLING
GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE B Buy a $100 $100 gift iff card, d RECEIVE A $10 GIFT CARD FREE Buy a $50 gift card,
RECEIVE A $5 GIFT CARD FREE
LAST MINUTE TOOL IDEAS
OVERSTOCK
SALE! While Supplies Last
DECEMBER SPECIALS!
18 Volt 1/2-ln. High Torque Impact Wrench
1/2” High Torque Impact Wrench with Friction Ring Model 2763-22
39999
$
Model 2663-22
30899
$
100 ft.-lbs. (Mode 1) and 700 ft-lbs. (Mode 2). 1.100 ft -lbs. nut-busting torque. 1 I Includes (2) redllthium XC 4.0 extended capacity batteries, multi-voltage charger and a carrying case.
FOR THE FARM Calf Warmers Pink & Blue
TIRES!
• SALES • MOUNTING • SERVICE
SKID LOADER ATTACHMENTS
WATER TANKS & GATES
Messer Repair & Fabricating LLC
WE HANDLE THE COMPLETE LINE OF J&D NAPA LEGEND BATTERIES
“Originators of insulated poly waterers”
Mol-Mix 40% and 16% Liquid Supplements STRESS PROTEIN TUBS MINERAL TUBS Proactive Cattle Treatment
Good Selection Bibs, Coats, Overalls
Dewormers
Gilman Co-op Creamery
FEED & FARM SUPPLY STORE
LET KARLEE HELP YOU!
Gilman, MN 320-387-2770
Open M-F 7:30-7, Sat. 7:30-5, Sun. 9-1 Good service - fair prices - every day
WWW.GILMANCREAMERY.COM
Why does Double-Ovsynch work so well? Page 34 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
Hormonal synchronization protocols are used extensively on dairy farms, and the use of 100 percent timed AI on rst breeding is becoming more common. In our practice, most herds using 100 percent timed AI on rst service have seem signicant increases Veterinary Wisdom in pregnancy rates after implementing this practice, especially if the protocol utilizes a second prostaglandin injection prior to breeding. Presynch-Ovsynch 10 or 11 seems to work about as well as Double-Ovsynch (DOS) in a 100 percent rst breeding TAI program. It is not uncommon to see rst By Jim Bennett service conception rates Columnist over 60 percent and 50 percent for rst lactation and older cows, respectively, even in herds averaging over 100 pounds of milk. However, the rst published eld trial of Ovsynch on a commercial dairy farm (Pursely, 1997) reported that conception rates to TAI and Ovsynch were about the same as cows bred on standing heat, and that improvements in pregnancy rates were due entirely to increases in service rates in the TAI program. Interestingly, one of the original developers of Ovsynch, Richard Pursely, states on his website (https://dairycattlereproduction.com), that Ovsynch was developed to increase conception rates by improving timing of insemination. Yet historically, the primary reason most producers used TAI was to increase service rates. A recent study (Santos, 2017) looked at the reasons for increases in pregnancy rates in a 100 percent TAI program on rst breeding. Early studies compared cows receiving TAI to cows in standing heat, but in those studies cows bred in standing heat had different days in milk than the TAI cows and results were mixed. This new study compared cows in a DOS protocol to cows that were synchronized with a protocol using GNRH and three subsequent
prostaglandin shots (EST), and then bred on detected the results suggest that inseminating high producing estrus. Cows were inseminated, on average, at 77 DIM Holstein cows after detected estrus results in lower in both groups. GNRH was used in the EST group fertility than insemination following DOS. The exact to reduce the rate of anovulation. Heat detection in mechanisms by which DOS increases fertility is still the EST group was aided by the use of a pedometry open to debate, and a variety of theories have been system, and a 77.5 percent submission (heat detection) proposed. In our experience, DOS may reduce double rate was achieved. ovulations and twinning rates as well, and the effect DOS cows had 23 percent more pregnancies may be, in part, related to the reasons for increased per breeding than EST cows when evaluated at 33 fertility. days after insemination. DOS cows had a 49 percent Remember that the submission rate was 77.5 conception rate and EST cows had a 38.9 percent percent for the EST cows, which while very good, conception rate. Progesterone sampling was done was less than the 100 percent submission rate of the on both groups. DOS cows had higher progesterone DOS cows. As a result the actual number of total levels at day 24, which is likely due to the presence pregnancies per enrolled cow in the DOS group was of an additional corpus luteum (CL) in the DOS 64 percent higher (33 days) than the EST group, not group. Higher progesterone levels at the time of 23 percent higher, because 22.5 percent of the EST prostaglandin administration have been shown to be cows were not inseminated. Think about this: using associated with higher conception rates in a number 100 percent TAI resulted in 64 percent more pregnant of previous studies. The percentage of cows with high cows on the rst breeding, even in a herd with a progesterone at breeding was not different between relatively high heat detection rate. This is a remarkable groups, suggesting that the percentage of cows in improvement in reproductive performance. the right stage of the cycle Thus the answer to for breeding did not the question of why Doublediffer between groups. D Ovsynch works so well Done right, i h 100 percent TAI Progesterone levels at seven is increased fertility and days post breeding was first service programs can increased submission rate. greater for the EST cows. dramatically increase If you are considering doing The authors speculate this this in your herd remember is because DOS cows had pregnancy rates. that you need a valid VCPR smaller ovulatory follicles. with your veterinarian This happens because and directions from your GNRH is given earlier during the development of a veterinarian. Also consider that compliance is synchronized follicular wave in an Ovsynch protocol extremely important to success with these programs; than the GNRH produced by the hypothalamus of missing or improperly administering a few shots can the cows in the EST group. The follicles in the EST result in horrible results, so be sure to do it right. Done group would be expected to be older and larger than right though, 100 percent TAI rst service programs the follicles in the DOS group at the time of ovulation can dramatically increase pregnancy rates. as a result. Jim Bennett is a dairy veterinarian at Northern When evaluating all of the progesterone levels at Valley Dairy Production Medicine Center in different stages, the authors concluded that overall 85 Plainview, Minn. He and his wife, Pam, have four percent of cows were synchronized, and the rate did children. Jim can be reached at bennettnvac@ not differ between groups, suggesting that the increase gmail.com with comments or questions. in conception rate of the DOS group was not due to a greater percentage of synchronized cows. Instead
SHARED ADVANTAGES:
& ROBOTIC MILKING
BOTH
• Superior eriorr c cow-comfort ow-com comffo fortt • Low maintenance cost • Dry surface, low SCC • Simplify manure management • Eliminate sand to reduce wear on robots
• Reduce cow stress • Reduce labor • Increase cow longevity • Lower mastitis rates • Long-term investment for next generation • Minimal bedding maintenance disruption
Robots
• Consistency in milking procedures • Better data on cow health • Milking, eating, resting choices made by cows • Flexible time management
Craig, Roger & Stephen Roerick, Roerview Dairy Upsala, MN • 170 ISO waterbeds
“We have had a substantial increase in milk production, from 83 lbs to 104 lbs. in the past year. I can’t say the increase is due to just the waterbeds because we have a brand new facility with robots but I will say that high production is possible with them. We don’t see many cows just standing around anymore, they are either eating, sleeping or milking. Happy cows make more milk–that is all there is to it. This was was a 100% good decision! We are very happy with how they work and how comfortable our cows are.” Bob’s Dairy Supply - Dorchester, WI Fuller’s Milker Center Inc. - Lancaster, WI Field’s - Mount Horeb, WI Eastern Iowa Dairy Systems - Epworth, IA Scharine Group - Whitewater, WI Livestock Systems - Charles City, IA
Contact a DCC Waterbeds dealer near you: K&R Equipment - Fountain, MN Komro Sales & Service - Durand, WI Midwest Livestock Systems - Pine Island, MN & Sioux Falls, SD Dairyland Equipment - Plainview, MN
RLS Vinyl & Farm Supply - Hager City, WI Ross Equipment - Lonsdale, MN United Development LLC- Brookings, SD Preston Dairy - Sparta, WI Leedstone - Melrose, MN & Glencoe, MN
www.DCCWaterbeds.com | (608) 709-2693 Advanced Comfort Technology, Inc. © 2017
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 35
MMPA celebrates 40th at annual dairy conference, expo JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
Dairy farmers (from leĹŒ) – Dave Scheevel, of Preston, Minn., and Barbara and Aaron Nelson, of Fountain, Minn. – catch up during the expo’s social hour Nov. 28.
JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
Jorge Delgado, of Elanco, presents a Spanish speaking seminar during the Minnesota Milk Dairy Conference and Expo Nov. 28 in Welch, Minn.
Ronald and Mary Ann Rinkel, of Hillman, Minn., look at a piece of equipment that was on display at the Minnesota Milk Dairy Conference and Expo Nov. 28.
Turn to MN MILK | Page 37
From Our Family to Yours,
Best Wishes for a Merry Christmas!
% " !$ %% % ###
DOON SAWMILL & FENCING LLC • Custom Sawing • RR Ties • Feed Bunks • Flat Beds • Guardrail • I-Beam Post • Oil Well Pipe • Sucker Rod
Call today to learn more!
Thank you for letting us serve your needs in 2017 Happy Holidays from all of us at... Our Guardrail feed bunks are the best!
2641 GarďŹ eld Ave. • P.O. Box 297 • Doon, IA 51235
(712) 726-3562
Brightly wrapped boxes‌ stockings stuffed with surprises‌ fresh Christmas cookies‌ twinkling trees all aglow‌ Of all the special gifts the holiday season delivers, we appreciate the friendship of good folks like you most of all.
Page 36 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
Women In Jeans Lynn Hendrickson Menahga, Minn. Wadena County 70 cows Family: I am married to Peter-Mark Hendrickson. Our kids are: Ryan, 16, Sarah, 14, Bradley, 12, and Jill, 10. Tell us about your farm. We milk 70 cows in a tiestall barn. We raise our replacement heifers. Whatever bull calves the kids don’t claim we sell as started calves. We own 240 acres and rent 60 acres. What’s the busiest time of day for you? The busiest time is whenever all six of us need to be somewhere at a specic time (like church). Otherwise, evenings when the kids are getting home from school, getting supper eaten and cleaned up, getting in the barn for chores and then back in the house for homework, showers and bedtime. When you get a spare moment what do you do? Baking is my favorite thing to do. Reading, walking, camping, snowshoeing and snowmobiling are always fun. Tell us about your most memorable experience working on the farm. The most memories have been made watching the kids grow. They all started in the barn in playpens and strollers. Then, they moved up to trikes and bikes. Then, onto making up games to entertain themselves during chores. Now, they are big enough to help with all the chores. There are lots of good memories on the farm. What have you enjoyed most about dairy farming or your tie to the dairy industry? Working alongside my husband, raising our kids to have a good work ethic and working with animals.
How do you stay connected with others in the industry? Reading the Dairy Star, other farming magazines and visiting with other farmers. In your opinion, what’s the importance of women in today’s dairy industry and how have you seen that change over the years? Women are taking on more roles as farmers. Many own farms or partner with husbands or family. But, even the woman who makes meals and supports her husband’s farming occupation can be important, too. If you could give a tour of your farm to a prominent woman in today’s society, who would it be and why? I would give Joanna Gaines a tour of the farm and then she could help me decorate my newly remodeled house. What is the best vacation you’ve ever taken? We have 100 nieces and nephews in our family. This fall, I went to Wyoming to see our 100th. My mom and all four sisters were there. It was fun. Another memorable vacation was about four years ago, all six of us got to go on vacation together. It was just a Friday through Sunday. We toured northern Minnesota.
FARM INFORMATION STATION Joe Gill • Farm Director
SERVING CENTRAL MINNESOTA FOR OVER 50 YEARS Catch the Dairy Star’s Mark Klaphake with Joe Gill at 6:45 a.m. the 2nd & 4th Fridays of the month on KASM!
What are some words you like to live by? Count your blessings, and it could be worse.
PO Box 160, Albany, MN • (320) 845-2184 • Fax (320) 845-2187
tfn
AUTHORIZED DEALERS IN IA, MN & WI
The Best Components Money can buy
KM Electric Charles City, IA 641-364-2103
Call for a Demo Today!
TMR Feed Carts
O.A.C.
Engineered with German Precision, Built with American Pride.
• 3 Yr./3,000 Hr.
Standard Factory Warranty*
• 4 Yr./4,000 Hr.
Powertrain Warranty*
• 5 Yr./5,000 Hr.
Electrical System Warranty*
WOLLER EQUIPMENT, INC. 320-573-2341 • www.wollerequipment.com 1 Mile NE of Upsala on Hwy. 238
*See dealer for details.
0% for 36 months
• Industry leading 134” lift height • Comfortable cab with great visibility • Wheel or track units available
Maki Farm Svc LLC Curtiss, WI 715-613-7308 Hartung Sales & Service Freeport, MN 320-836-2697 Hanson Silo Lake Lillian, MN 320-664-4171
Round Bale Unrollers Stationary TMR Mixers
Melrose Imp. Melrose, MN 320-256-4253 Zabel Equip. Eastman, WI 608-874-4105
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 37
Con�nued from MN MILK | Page 35
6$8. &(175( 01 ZZZ PPFMG FRP
3KRQH $VN IRU 5DOSK RU 6WHYH
³Â§à ŒâoĂ”oĂ˜Ă˘ Â’ÂŚAÂŚ\’Œ† ĂťA’›AR›oc Ă? <oAĂ”Ă˜
JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
A�endees listen to a panel of legislators discuss legisla�on related to the dairy industry Nov. 28 during the expo. The session was led by Minnesota Milk’s lobbyist, Daryn McBeth.
8600, 2016, 148 Hrs, RWA, Warranty ......$409,500 8100, 2016, 250 Hrs, RWA, Warranty ......$259,000 7780, 2014, 1301 Hrs, RWA .....................$239,000 7580, 2013, 610 Hrs, RWA, Warranty ......$274,900 7950, 2012, 694 Hrs, RWA .......................$274,900 7850, 2008, 1600 Hrs, RWA .....................$179,500 7550, 2012, 1825 Hrs, RWA .....................$205,000 7550, 2010, 1344 Hrs, RWA .....................$209,500 7550, 2008, 1359 Hrs, RWA .....................$189,500 7450, 2009, 1550 Hrs, RWA .....................$189,500 7450, 2010, 2985 Hrs, RWA .....................$139,000 7350, 2008, 2950 Hrs, RWA .....................$149,000 7800, 2007, 1885 Hrs, RWA .....................$159,500 7700, 2007, 1570 Hrs, RWA .....................$169,500 7500, 2005, 2423 Hrs, RWA .....................$135,000 7400, 2004, 2918 Hrs, RWA .....................$124,900 7400, 2005, 1516 Hrs, 2WD .......................$98,000 7300, 2003,3637 Hrs, RWA ........................$79,000 6850, 1999, 3120 Hrs, RWA .......................$79,500 6850, 1998, 3100 Hrs, 2WD .......................$74,500
6710, 1995, 2908 Hrs, RWA .......................$68,500 5830, 1991, 3700 Hrs, RWA .......................$39,900 5730, 1986, 4980 Hrs, RWA .......................$35,900 Claas 970, 2008, 3000 Hrs, RWA ............$175,000 Claas 900, 2005, 2848 Hrs ...................... $115,000 Claas 890, 2002, 2290 Hrs, RWA ............$129,000 All hours listed are “cutter hours�.
8100
2016, 250 Hours, RWA, Kernel Processor, High Arch Spout, 375 HP, Warranty
$259,000
@™™ à Šd@Ăž {ŠÒ dmĂ @Â?™Ö Š¤ ŠÍÒ @Ă–ĂžÂ? m@Ă–m |¤@¤ZÂ?¤„y $âÂ?oĂ” ÂĄA\Â?Â’ÂŚoĂ˜ AĂťA’›AR›o }ÂŤĂ” ›oAĂ˜o AÂ›Ă˜ÂŤĂ‚ 0ĂR™o\â ⍠\Ă”of’â AŸŸÔÝA›Â A›› }ÂŤĂ” foâAÂ’Â›Ă˜Ă‚
KRISTA KUZMA/DAIRY STAR
Dave Kjome speaks to the crowd on Nov. 28 at the banquet a�er he was surprised with receiving Minnesota Milk’s Bruce Co�ngton Friend of Dairy Award. Kjome, who is from Rochester, Minn., spent most of his working career helping dairy farmers, including his �me working for the University of MinnesotaExtension.
LOOKING TO ADVERTISE? In Northern/East Central Minnesota Call: Jeff Weyer
OfÀce 320-352-6303 Cell: 320-260-8505 jeff.w@dairystar.com
In Central, South Central Minnesota Call: Mike Schafer
320-894-7825 mike.s@dairystar.com
In Southwest Minnesota, Northwest Iowa, South Dakota Call: Jerry Nelson
605-690-6260 jerry.n@dairystar.com
KRISTA KUZMA/DAIRY STAR
Je Johnson, who works for Alltech, holds up cheese being auc�oned o to raise money for scholarships during the live auc�on on Nov. 28 at the Minnesota Milk Dairy Conference and Expo in Red Wing, Minn.
In Southeast Minnesota Call: Laura Seljan
507-250-2217 laura.s@dairystar.com
DAIRY ST R
Page 38 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
WE’VE MADE THE BEST EVEN BETTER
SILO-KING
®Š
ON-FARM RESULTS
‡ PRUH FDORULHV* ‡ OEV PRUH PLON* ‡ 52, ^ *Per ton of forage fed ^Based on $16.50/cwt milk price
7HPSHUDWXUH R)
6LOR .LQJ‹ WUHDWHG FRUQ VLODJH ZDV R) ORZHU WKDQ WKH FRPSHWLWLRQ DW SHDN WHPSHUDWXUH DQG R) FRROHU E\ 'D\ :KDW GRHV WKDW GL੔HUHQFH PHDQ"
CORN SILAGE TEMPERATURE (OF ) vs DAYS ENSILED
&RPSHWLWRU
SILO-KING
®
'D\V
ͺͲͲǧͶ͵ͷǧͻͷ͸Ͳ AGRIKING.COM
Central Minnesota Regional Manager 5LFK /DXHU 3$6
East Stearns Co., Minn. 'XVWLQ 9DQGHUP\GH
Dakota, Houston, Rice, LeSueur Co., Minn./Buffalo, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce Co., Wis. .\OH %DUWVFK 5$6
Winona and Wabasha Co., Minn. $DURQ /HH
ULFK ODXHU#DJULNLQJ FRP
N\OH EDUWVFK#DJULNLQJ FRP
GXVWLQ YDQGHUP\GH# DJULNLQJ FRP
DDURQ OHH#DJULNLQJ FRP
South/SW, West, and North/NW Minn. 'DOH 2PPRGW &&$ 5$6 GDOH RPPRGW#DJULNLQJ FRP
Houston Co., Minn./ Buffalo, La Crosse, Jackson and Trempealeau Co., Wis. -RKQ .LHVH 5$6 MRKQ NLHVH#DJULNLQJ FRP
NE Neb., N.D. and S.D. 5RJHU )ULHOHU 5$6
NW Iowa .HQWRQ :LWW 3$6
NE Iowa /RUL .LQW]OH %6 3$6
URJHU IULHOHU#DJULNLQJ FRP
NHQWRQ ZLWW#DJULNLQJ FRP
ORUL NLQW]OH#DJULNLQJ FRP
Fillmore Co., Minn./ Allamakee, Howard and Winneshiek Co., Iowa 0DUN +ROWKDXV 5$6
La Crosse, Monroe and Vernon Co., Wis. 6WHYHQ 6HQGHOH
Barron and Polk Co., Wis. -RVK &]HNDOVNL
PDUN KROWKDXV#DJULNLQJ FRP
VWHYHQ VHQGHOH#DJULNLQJ FRP
MRVKXD F]HNDOVNL#DJULNLQJ FRP
Dairy prole
Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017 • Page 39
sponsored by
Josh Sauter Cannon Falls, Minn. Goodhue County 300 cows How did you get into farming? I was born into it. I grew up on this dairy and went on to graduate from Cornell in 2006 with a degree in animal science. I am now the third generation to dairy here. What are your thoughts and concerns about the dairy industry for the next year? I think the feed price is favoring livestock farmers over grain farmers for the rst time in quite awhile. The question is, will there be enough consumer demand and processing capacity to keep up with all the milk? What is the latest technology you implemented on your farm and the purpose for it? We started using a colostrometer to test the milk of all the fresh cows. That has helped calf health. heifer calves on an accelerated growth program. We have been What is a management practice for about 11 years and it has been you changed in the past year a big help. that has beneted you? We have started breeding lower genetic What has been the best purchase potential cows and problem you have ever made on your breeders to Black Angus bulls to farm? An A.I. gun warmer. It increase the value of calves we do makes breeding easier for me. I not need as replacements. have been breeding all the cows since I returned home. How do you retain a good working relationship with your What has been your biggest employee or employees? The accomplishment while dairy biggest key is being exible with farming? We now have a 30 scheduling. We have six full-time percent pregnancy rate. It has and two part-time employees. slowly climbed over the years. Tell us about a skill you possess that makes dairy farming easier for you. I am pretty good at knowing the cows and being able to tell if something is going on with them.
milk 300 cows that are about 95 percent Holstein and the rest are Brown Swiss from a 4-H project that got out of control. We raise our bull calves for steers up to
about 500 pounds. Katie and I have three children: Beatrix, 3, Gabrielle, 2, and Roy, 5 months, who will hopefully be the fourth generation to farm here.
What are your plans for your dairy in the next year and ve years? We just plan to keep improving everything.
What do you enjoy most about dairy farming? My favorite part is seeing new 2-year-olds freshen and seeing how much improvement is being made from generation to generation.
How do you or your family like to spend time when you are not doing chores? My wife, Katie, and I have three little kids so it is fun to go somewhere and do something with them. The two older girls are in gymnastics so I try to get to their practices when I can.
What advice would you give other dairy farmers? Feed your
Tell us about your farm. I am the third generation on this dairy. We
Star Blends is a full service feed manufacturing facility. We provide custom complete feeds, supplements and minerals. We utilize modern technology to produce your needed products on demand with the highest quality feeds at the best cost. We also offer a wide selection of commodities, ingredients and additives. We are focused on dairy, efficiently delivering to farms in Western Wisconsin. Give us a call, we’d be happy to discuss our commodities or custom products and services with you and your nutritionist.
1919 Riley Road Sparta, WI 54656 | 800.462.4125
Page 40 • Dairy Star • Saturday, December 9, 2017
LED light improves teat visibility
Effective, proprietary chlorine dioxide solution
Antimicrobial brushes inhibit bacterial growth
A brush with greatness FutureCow® Prep System: the most consistent cow prep for any herd size. The future of your herd’s milk quality starts with consistency.
stimulation and mastitis prevention. Whether it’s the first
Prep each cow the same way at every milking session with the
hour of milking or the very last, ensure greatness in one easy
FutureCow® Prep System from GEA. With the lightest brush
step with the FutureCow® Prep System.
on the market, FutureCow® provides optimal teat cleaning,
Your Local GEA Milking Equipment Dealer: Advanced Dairy Solutions Richland Center, WI 608-647-4488 • 800-772-4770 Centre Dairy Equipment Sauk Centre, MN 320-352-5762 • 800-342-2697 Eastern Iowa Dairy Systems Epworth, IA • 563-876-3087 Fitzgerald, Inc. Elkader, IA • 563-245-2560 Fuller’s Milker Center, Inc. Lancaster, WI • 800-887-4634
Hobert Sales, Inc. Cokato, MN • 320-286-6284
Monroe WestfaliaSurge Monroe, WI • 608-325-2772
Leedstone, Inc. Melrose, MN 320-256-3303 • 800-996-3303 Glencoe, MN 320-864-5575 • 877-864-5575
Preston Dairy Equipment, Inc. Sparta, WI • 608-269-3830 • 888-863-0227
Midwest Livestock Systems Menomonie, WI • 715-235-5144 Owen, WI • 715-229-4740 Pine Island, MN • 800-233-8937 Sioux Falls, MN • 800-705-1447 Beatrice, NE • 800-742-5748
Sioux Dairy Equipment, Inc. Rock Valley, IA 712-476-5608 • 800-962-4346 Colton, SD Service 800-944-1217 Edgerton, MN Chemical Sales 507-920-8626