Michigan Milk Messenger: July 2016 by Michigan Milk Producers Association

Michigan 2015 Milk

T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F M I C H I G A N M I L K P R O D U C E R S A S S O C I AT I O N

VOL. 99 | ISSUE 1 | JULY 2016

MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing Tour Learn about the early days of the tour and the 2016 class of 4-Hâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ers

Remembering Elwood Kirkpatrick

mimilk.com

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MESSENGER | JULY 2016

JULY 2016 FEATURES

On the Cover

14 | MEET THE 2016 MMPA INTERNS

Michigan dairy cows enjoy the summer sun on a pasture dairy.

MMPA fosters two internship programs each summer: The John Dilland Fellowship and the Michigan State University Food Systems Fellowship.

In this issue, read about the

THE BIRTH OF THE MMPA 18 | 4-H MILK MARKETING TOUR

MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing

Tour and learn more about the

A group of 4-H boys hitched a ride on a milk route in 1935, paving the way for the next 78 MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing Tours.

late Elwood Kirkpatrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life, a former MMPA president.

REMEMBERING 22 | ELWOOD KIRKPATRICK

National and state dairy industry leader, the late Elwood Kirkpatrick, remembered through his reflections on his MMPA presidency and a tribute from USDEC.

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving pproximately 2,000 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

CONTENTS 6

MMPA MATTERS

“He was calm. He was reasonable. He was reflective. Leaders like that are rare.”

“What are you going to do?”

QUALITY WATCH Keeping Your Cows Cool and Comfortable Through the Summer Months

(SEE TRIBUTE STORIES ON PAGES 22-25.)

NEWS & VIEWS

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

BREAKFAST ON THE FARM CONTINUES TO IMPROVE CONSUMER TRUST IN DAIRY FARMING

— TOM SUBER ON THE LATE ELWOOD KIRKPATRICK

DEPARTMENTS 28 MERCHANDISE 29

2016 MMPA 4-H MILK MARKETING TOUR

QUALITY PREMIUMS

30 FREELINERS 32 CLASSIFIEDS

VETERINARY FEED DIRECTIVE

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

Michigan Students Learn To Lead with a Purpose, Thanks to Fuel Up to Play 60

35 STAFF

33 POLICIES

MMPA CORE VALUES:

QUALITY

INTEGRITY

Managing Editor................................................ Sheila Burkhardt Editor...............................................................................Allison Stuby Advertising Manager......................................Nancy Muszynski Circulation..................................................................................... 2,843 An Equal Opportunity Employer – F/M/V/D Michigan Milk Messenger (USPS 345-320) is the official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association, published monthly since June 1919. Subscriptions: MMPA members, 50¢ per year; non-members, $5 per year.

MARKET REPORT

PROGRESS

41310 Bridge Street P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376-8002

LEADERSHIP

COMMUNITY

p: 248-474-6672 f: 248-474-0924 w: www.mimilk.com

Periodical postage paid at Novi, MI and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Michigan Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002. (ISSN 0026-2315)

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

MMPA MATTERS

What are you going to do? BY KEN NOBIS, PRESIDENT

What are you going to do? This question was asked repeatedly by an MMPA member recently in reference to Michigan’s producer pay price being not only among the lowest in the U.S. but, in particular, lower than that of our neighboring state of Wisconsin. The question was also aimed at processing capacity in Michigan. First let’s look at some history to explain why Michigan prices are lower than Wisconsin’s when for years the reverse was true. With a much lower production base and a much higher consumer population than Wisconsin, Michigan at one time profited from the class one fluid market. Producing milk for the class three cheese market was not of interest when fluid was much more lucrative, so cheese plants were not constructed in Michigan. Wisconsin, on the other hand, had a very low percentage of its production going to the bottle, with roughly four times as many cows and half the population of Michigan.

“What are we going to do? We will strive to extract as much value from the market as possible, as we have done for 100 years. We will continue to supply our customers with the highest quality product possible. We will continue to value the support of our members as we work together to accomplish our shared goals.”

Wisconsin’s cheese production has profited producers in recent years with the decline in fluid production and the rapid increase in U.S. cheese consumption. Class three prices have been strong. Michigan, with little class three production and the decline in fluid consumption, must rely heavily on the class four butter/powder price, the weakest link in milk pricing currently in both the U.S. and world markets. Much of the additional milk production throughout the U.S. and world is ending up in the production of powder. As production increased very rapidly in Michigan, other changes also strained Michigan’s industry. For example, yogurt production decreased in New York and moved to Idaho, so Michigan-produced milk that had moved east for that purpose was no longer available. So what are you going to do? We are, for one thing, evaluating the prospect of building a cheese plant with Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) and Foremost Farms USA. It makes sense to balance the state’s capacity by moving in the direction of the three co-ops working in collaboration on a new cheese plant. It doesn’t mean we are merging, just that we recognize the scope of the project and that the producers of Michigan would best be served if we approach the project cooperatively. A project of that size will take at least two years to complete if the decision is made to go forward, so in the meantime, “What are you going to do?” MMPA has not stood still and watched the world go by. We have quietly and continuously tweaked operations at our plant in Ovid, resulting in about 500,000 pounds more milk being processed per day than one year ago. We have made comparable increases at the Constantine plant and are moving forward on phase two of a project with Foremost that will add more capacity to that facility. In addition to optimizing capacity in our own facilities, our staff has been sourcing new customers. 98 percent of the U.S. milk production increases year to date is in the Great Lakes Region which is negatively impacting the premiums received on all classes of milk. Finding new homes for milk during a time of unprecedented milk increases in our region is difficult but we have had some success. At the end of the day we need customers to buy the end product, no matter what end product we produce. The U.S. market is a mature market; the major growth of dairy is going to be beyond our borders. To that end we continue to support passage of the TransPacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement. While not perfect, the TPP will help the U.S. dairy industry continue to compete outside our borders. We are imploring our legislators in Washington to recognize the importance of TPP to the U.S. dairy industry. We need your help conveying the same message to fulfill our co-op mission “to market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.” What are we going to do? We will strive to extract as much value from the market as possible, as we have done for 100 years. We will continue to supply our customers with the highest quality product possible. We will continue to value the support of our members as we work together to accomplish our shared goals.

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

QUALITY WATCH

Keeping Your Cows Cool and Comfortable Through the Summer Months BY LINDSAY GREEN, ANIMAL CARE COORDINATOR AND MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE

Summer is well under way here in Michigan and with that comes added management concerns for producers to keep their cows cool and comfortable in order to avoid production losses. It has been found that heat stress in cattle is a function of both temperature and relative humidity, thus the Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) was developed to indicate when cattle may start showing symptoms of heat stress. It is similar to what the weather man refers to as the ‘heat index.’

“Managing a cow’s environment is a very important pillar to maintaining production levels as well as animal welfare. By following some of the university recommendations listed in this article producers may be able to increase the comfort of their cows and in turn prevent a drop in revenue due to lost milk production.”

For years the THI value of 72 was thought to be the minimum threshold for heat stress. However, a more recent study from the University of Arizona found that the higher producing cows of today’s dairy farms can start to feel the effects of heat stress at a THI of 68. Heat stress may occur at lower temperatures if the relative humidity is high. The highest producing cattle on your farm are those with the most to lose and are also the most susceptible to heat stress conditions due to the increased rumen activity and metabolic respiration that accompanies the body’s demands for high production. Members can determine if there is room for improvement on their operations by graphing monthly production over a few consecutive years. If there is a significant production ‘slump’ between the months of June to September each year that cannot be explained by reduction in cow numbers there may be steps that can be taken with ventilation and sprinkler systems to improve cow comfort, in turn reducing the drop in production experienced. The University of Kansas has put together a set of recommendations for ventilation and sprinkler use: “Fans should be mounted above the cows on the feed line and above head-to-head freestalls in a four-row freestall barn. If 36-inch fans are used, they should be located no more than 30 feet apart. If 48-inch fans are used, they should be located no more than 40 feet apart and operate when the temperature reaches 70° F. Fans should be mounted out of the reach of the cattle and in a manner that will not obstruct equipment movement. Fans should create an airflow of 800- 900 cubic feet per minute per stall or headlock. Feed line sprinklers should be used in addition to the fans. Feed line sprinkling systems should wet the back of the cow, and then shut off to allow the water to evaporate prior to another cycle beginning. Application rate per cycle should be .04 inches/ft2 , and sprinklers should operate when the temperature exceeds 75°F.” In addition to the recommendations from the University of Kansas, the Michigan State University (MSU) Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Department recommends mounting the spray nozzles 8 to 9 feet above the floor and aiming the nozzles so water is directed toward the middle of the cows’ backs. Nozzles should emit large drops of water at a range of 0.1 to 0.5 gallons per minute. The sprinkler should cycle three minutes “on” – where the cows are getting wet – and 12 minutes “off ” so that the water can evaporate, causing a cooling effect for the cows. The sprinklers need to be monitored to assure cows are not getting too wet. Excess water should not run down the side of the cow to her udder and pool on the floor, as this can greatly increase the risk of mastitis. Managing a cow’s environment is a very important pillar to maintaining production levels as well as animal welfare. By following some of the university recommendations listed in this article producers may be able to increase the comfort of their cows and in turn prevent a drop in revenue due to lost milk production.

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

Change is coming. Will you be ready? Beginning January 1, 2017, a Veterinary Feed Directive order must be presented to purchase feeds containing: Established drug name Chlortetracycline (CTC) Chlortetracycline/Sulfamethazine Chlortetracycline/Sulfamethazine/Penicillin Hygromycin B Lincomycin Oxytetracycline (OTC) Oxytetracycline/Neomycin Penicillin Sulfadimethoxine/Ormetoprim Tylosin Tylosin/Sulfamethazine Virginiamycin

Examples of proprietary drug name(s) Aureomycin, CLTC, CTC, Chloratet, Chlorachel, ChlorMax, Chlortetracycline, Deracin, Inchlor, Pennchlor, Pfichlor Aureo S, Aureomix S, Pennchlor S Aureomix 500, Chlorachel/Pficlor SP, Pennchlor SP, ChlorMax SP Hygromix Lincomix TM, OXTC, Oxytetracycline, Pennox, Terramycin Neo-Oxy, Neo-Terramycin Penicillin, Penicillin G Procaine Rofenaid, Romet Tylan, Tylosin, Tylovet Tylan Sulfa G, Tylan Plus Sulfa G, Tylosin Plus Sulfamethazine Stafac, Virginiamycin, V-Max

Tilmicosin (Pulmotil,Tilmovet), Avilamycin (Kavault), Florfenicol (Aquaflor, Nuflor) currently require a VFD order.

www.michigan.gov/vfd

NEWS & VIEWS

MMPA Communications Team Wins CCA Awards The Cooperative Communicators Association (CCA) awarded MMPA with two communications awards at the 2016 CCA Institute on June 6. MMPA won first place in the social media category and second place in the improved publication category for the Michigan Milk Messenger. CCA is an organization of 350 professionals who communicate for cooperatives. The association, founded more than 55 years ago, emphasize ideas and strategies aimed at making communications more successful for cooperatives.

Class III Price Dips Below $13

MMPA Awarded FRESH Leadership Award

he Food Bank of Eastern Michigan recognized MMPA with the FRESH (Fresh-grown, Renewing Energy & Sustaining Health) award on May 18. The cooperative has donated over 24,000 gallons of milk since January to support the community of Flint with calcium-rich dairy in the wake of the water crisis. The FRESH Leadership Award was created in 2012 and its purpose is to recognize farmers, corporations, or individuals that promote a healthier, nutritious lifestyle and food products to food insecure individuals. It was designed to coincide with the fresh direction the Food Bank was headed along with the vision of the Hunger Solution Center. Many of those who struggle financially buy cheaper, less nutritious food as a means to spread their limited budget further. The goal of the Hunger Solution Center is to not only ”change the face of hunger,” but also to help in the crusade against obesity, diabetes, and other cognitive and physical conditions that occur as a result of poor nutrition.

The USDA announced last week the May Class III milk price is $12.76 per hundredweight, down 87 cents from April, and $3.43 below May 2015. The Class IV price is 41 cents higher than April’s price at $13.09, but down 82 cents from May of last year.

Upcoming Events July 18-22 Michigan Dairy Expo, East Lansing

July 20 Great Dairy Adventure, East Lansing

August 2 Ovid Plant Open House, Ovid

August 18-19 Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator Conference, Novi

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

MMPA PRESIDENT KEN NOBIS (RIGHT) ACCEPTED THE FRESH LEADERSHIP AWARD ON BEHALF OF MMPA FROM CLAUDE HIGH (CENTER) AND TERRY NIX (LEFT) OF THE FOOD BANK OF EASTERN MICHIGAN.

MSU Agriculture Innovation Day: Focus on Soils

Jump with Jill Tour Completes 2016 Michigan Tour

Michigan State University (MSU) will host its first

In support of Milk Means More, the rock & roll nutrition show Jump with Jill completed 35 school tours in the state of Michigan. This tour is possible thanks to the continued generosity of Michigan’s dairy farmers and the United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM). Known for crisscrossing the mitten, Jump with Jill rocked this tour in a new vehicle designed like a delicious glass of Michigan-produced milk. The statewide tour of Michigan elementary schools concluded in June.

MSU Agriculture Innovation Day: Focus on Soils on Aug. 24, 2016, at the Saginaw Valley Research and Extension Center in Frankenmuth, Michigan.

The educational field day will deliver cutting-edge information on soil health topics ranging from nutrient management and soil quality to compaction and tile technology. Farmers will have the opportunity to hear from science-based, experts and see the results of various techniques on both crop growth and soil quality. They will also learn about the soil testing and plant diagnostics resources offered by MSU. MSU Agriculture Innovation Day is slated to become an annual event that will focus on in-depth education on a single topic. The event will rotate to various locations throughout the state. Experts will deliver innovative information to help producers take the next step in improving their bottom line while maintaining environmentally sound practices on their farms. FOR MORE INFORMATION: WWW.MSUE.MSU.EDU/MSUAGINNOVATIONDAY.

“We are dedicated to being a source of information on dairy foods and Michigan dairy farming,” said Sharon Toth, CEO of United Dairy Industry of Michigan. “The Milk Means More brand captures the impact Michigan’s dairy industry has throughout our state, from providing nutritious and wholesome foods, to jobs in our communities. We are so proud to partner with Jump with Jill to take this message to Michigan kids.” The rock & roll nutrition show, Jump with Jill, was created by a Registered Dietitian and professional musician and uses music and dance to celebrate healthy habits by transforming nutrition education into a live concert.

2016 MMPA Advisory Committee

District 1

District 5

Bruce Lewis, Jonesville........................................ 517-869-2877 Jeff Horning, Manchester..................................... 734-428-8610 Art Riske, Hanover............................................... 517-524-6015 Clark Emmons, Fayette, OH................................ 419-466-4471 Jeff Alexander, Hanover....................................... 517-740-9981

Mike Rasmussen, Edmore................................... 989-304-0233 Lyle Vanderwal, Lake City.................................... 231-328-4926 Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................................ 989-506-5287 Bruce Benthem, McBain....................................... 231-825-8182 Amy Martin, Leroy................................................ 231-388-0496

District 2

District 6

Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN............................. 574-825-2454 Mark Crandall, Battle Creek................................. 269-660-2229 Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN.......................... 574-825-5198 Don Bever, Delton................................................ 269-671-5050 Heather Wing, Bellevue........................................ 269-660-0498

David Reed, Owosso............................................ 989-723-2023 Jamie Meyer, Ionia............................................... 989-640-3372 Kris Wardin, St. Johns.......................................... 989-640-9420 Aaron Gasper, Lowell........................................... 616-897-2747 Steve Thelen, Fowler............................................ 989-682-9064

District 3

District 7

Tim Butler, Sand Lake.......................................... 269-330-5538 Bill Gruppen, Zeeland........................................... 616-875-8162 Burke Larsen, Scottville........................................ 231-425-8988 Bill Stakenas, Freesoil.......................................... 231-425-6913 Gary Nelsen, Grant.............................................. 231-834-7610

John Bennett, Prescott......................................... 989-345-4264 Mark Iciek, Gladwin.............................................. 989-426-5655 Eric Bergdolt, Vassar............................................ 989-652-6500 Steve Foley, Millington.......................................... 989-871-4028 Rodney Fowler, Chesaning.................................. 989-302-2299

District 4

District 8

Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................................... 231-588-6084 Jeremy Werth, Herron.......................................... 989-464-4022 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard.................................... 906-630-1957 Russ Tolan, Ossineke........................................... 989-471-2993 Ron Lucas, Posen................................................ 989-379-4694

Darwin Sneller, Sebewaing.................................. 989-977-3718 Bill Blumerich, Berlin............................................ 810-706-2955 Michael Bender, Croswell..................................... 810-404-2140 Patrick Bolday, Emmett........................................ 810-395-7139 Michael Noll, Croswell.......................................... 810-404-4071

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

The VanDries Travel to Washington, D.C. BY SHAWN AND BETH VANDRIE

Traveling to the Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital for the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) meeting was enlightening, rewarding and one of the most memorable experiences of our lives. This year NMPF is celebrating their centennial! Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had 100 years of improving the economic well-being of dairy co-ops and their farmer owners along with assuring the nations consumers an adequate supply of pure wholesome milk. They are passionate and dedicated to their causes and skilled at promoting our agenda on Capitol Hill.

12 12

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

We arrived in Washington D.C. on Monday, June 6 and got right to business. We attended the Young Cooperator (YC) Advisory Council meeting along with other YCs representing many other states. We worked together to plan and organize the 2016 YC Leadership and Development Program that will take place in Nashville, Tennessee in

November. Together we developed a list of topics and speakers that we felt would be informative and interesting to our peers in the upcoming meeting. Next we met with the NMPF staff for some background on the organization. We were privileged to meet many of the board members and hear about the current topics they are challenged with today and how they compare to challenges the organization faced in 1916. Many areas that required the formation of NMPF 100 years ago are still issues we face today such as farm labor, animal health and well-being, and food safety regulations. Other topics are new to our generation such as the MPP program and the need for a national biotechnology labeling system. Monday ended with a tour of some of the many historic sites in and around Washington D.C. We were humbled by the vast history that was represented on the tour and inspired by the leaders that have shaped our country in generations past. Our favorite stop was the Jefferson Memorial. A part of a quote written on the wall of the memorial says “God who gave us life gave us liberty, can the liberties of a nation be secure when we have removed a conviction that these liberties are a gift from God? Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just, that his justice cannot sleep forever.” Tuesday, June 7, started a little differently for the YCs from Michigan. Six of us from MMPA and other co-ops met with Michigan Senator Debbie Stabenow. It was an informal setting in the nation’s agriculture office where we had the opportunity to thank her for serving on the Senate Agriculture Committee and all the positive impact she has supporting the Child Nutrition Program. We also brought to her attention the importance of having a national biotechnology labeling legislation passed before the Vermont Bill takes effect in July of 2016. We returned to the meeting forum excited for the next opportunity to

help lobby on behalf of our fellow dairymen and women. After being educated on the best ways to endorse our legislation all of the YCs from around the U.S. went up to Capitol Hill to meet with their representatives. We met with Congressman John Moolenaar, staff from Congressman Justin Amash and staff from Sen. Gary Peter’s office. They were all welcoming and well educated in the current issues facing agriculture. We brought to their attention our support of immediate action to establish a federal label disclosure system for foods produced using biotechnology; our interest in a successful Transatlantic-Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP); and our continued investment in supporting the reauthorization of Child Nutrition programs.

ABOVE: YCS FROM MICHIGAN, INCLUDING THE VANDRIES, SPOKE WITH SEN. DEBBIE STABENOW, RANKING MEMBER OF THE SENATE AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE, ABOUT HER ROLE IN AGRICULTURE POLICY AND THE CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAM. OPPOSITE PAGE: SHAWN AND BETH VANDRIE (CENTER AND LEFT) MET WITH CONGRESSMAN MOOLENAAR (RIGHT) DURING THE YC LEGISLATIVE VISITS ON JUNE 7.

“We were blessed with the opportunity to speak on your behalf and to provide input on legislation that will shape our industry for generations to come.”

Our trip to Washington gave us a glimpse into the life of the NMPF. Their constant support and dedication to facing head-on the legislative issues that are pressing on the dairy industry today is reassuring that our voice is being heard clearly on Capitol Hill. We were blessed with the opportunity to speak on your behalf and to provide input on legislation that will shape our industry for generations to come. JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

[ M E E T T H E 2 01 6 M M PA I N T E R N S \

John Dilland Fellowship Intern: Ryan Kratochvil

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

Why are you interested in dairy? I am interested in dairy because it is an integral part of the Michigan’s economy. There are many opportunities within the industry and it is not always a well understood industry by consumers and I would like to help change that. What does your internship entail?

Learn more about MSU Agribusiness Student Ryan Kratochvil, the 2016 John Dilland Fellowship Intern, as he works alongside the MMPA milk sales department managing the movement of members’ milk. Tell us a little bit about yourself. I am from the small town of Suttons Bay, Michigan. Growing up, my family owned a farm where we produced numerous varieties of cherries, along with plums, and we have recently started producing wine grapes. Currently, I am a junior at Michigan State University pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness Management, with a minor in Technology Systems Management. Why did you apply for MMPA’s internship? I applied for the internship offered by MMPA because I wanted to get an in-depth look at what a career would be like on the business side of farming. The internship directly correlates with my degree, and also gives me a good foundation for the agribusiness career that I will be pursuing upon graduation. What do you like most about working in the dairy industry? I like working everyday knowing that I am helping a dairy farmer somewhere in Michigan, and making sure that every day they are able to get up and do what they love.

Working at the headquarters in Novi, my internship involves working with the distribution of milk that changes hands both within MMPA and through other entities, as well as providing the best services for our members in the member relations department. I work with the dispatch center, helping them to account for the milk being hauled throughout the region and accounting for the trucking companies daily routines. There will also be various meetings, tours, and events that I will attend. What have you learned on the job so far? So far, I have learned how to use mapping software to map the routes that are driven daily by trucking companies hauling MMPA milk and the cost of hauling. I have also learned the process in which milk is accounted for, along with how it is tracked and identified. What’s your favorite dairy product? My favorite dairy product is ice cream, preferably vanilla. What are your future plans? Immediately following graduation I would like to find a job that combines skills from my agricultural business major, as well as my minor. Ideally this would be in the field of precision agriculture. Though my career following graduation may take me out of state, my ultimate goal is to settle in Michigan and help Michigan agriculture thrive. THE JOHN DILLAND FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM IS NAMED IN HONOR OF JOHN DILLAND, FORMER MMPA GENERAL MANAGER, WHO RETIRED AFTER 35 YEARS OF SERVICE IN 2010. THE INTENT OF THE PROGRAM IS TO ENCOURAGE HIGH CALIBER STUDENTS TO LEARN ABOUT CAREERS AT MMPA, A BUSINESS UNIQUELY SUITED TO ENHANCE THE FINANCIAL HEALTH AND MANAGEMENT OF FAMILY DAIRY PRODUCERS.

MSU Food Systems Fellowship Intern: Courtney Doan Why are you interested in dairy? At first I just loved the peaceful, curious nature of the dairy cows themselves. What interests me now is the delicate relationship between how the cows are managed compared to their comfort and milk production. Any small change can have a huge impact and that is what is so exciting! What does your internship entail?

MSU Veterinary Medicine Student Courtney Doan is assisting mid-Michigan MMPA members achieve FARM program goals as the 2016 MSU Food Systems Fellowship Intern.

I am traveling to dairy farms in Mid-Michigan and working with producers on the National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) program. The FARM program includes animal care guidelines to promote the highest standards in animal health, nutrition and handling.

Learn more about Doan’s love of ice cream and

What have you learned on the job so far?

working with dairy farmers.

I have learned about all of the ways that MMPA field representatives work to solve problems for producers every day. From herd tests to water samples and everything in between, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand how MMPA continually supports the dairy industry.

Tell us a little bit about yourself. I grew up in Merrill, Michigan on a beef cow/ calf farm. I started working at Bebow Dairy in Saint Louis, Michigan and fell in love with the dairy industry. I graduated from Michigan State University in 2014 with an animal science degree and a concentration in production animals. I am now a third-year veterinary student at MSU and will graduate in May 2018. Why did you apply for MMPA’s internship? This internship is a great opportunity to travel to several dairy farms, interact with the producers and help them in any way that I can. This internship is perfect for me because I love talking to producers about their farm. I knew going in that every day would be a new adventure. What do you like most about working in the dairy industry? The people! With every farm I visit there is one thing in common: everyone I meet is dedicated and hardworking. There is an overall sense of teamwork between the producer, veterinarian and staff which is what I like most.

What’s your favorite dairy product? My favorite dairy product is ice cream but I also love chocolate milk. What are your future plans? After I graduate from veterinary school, I plan to be a dairy veterinarian in Central Michigan. I would like to specialize in milk quality and calf management. As a veterinarian, I hope to help farmers provide the best care for their cattle. TO HELP PROVIDE EXPERIENCES FOR VETERINARY STUDENTS FOCUSED ON SERVING THE FOOD ANIMAL INDUSTRY, THE MSU COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE ESTABLISHED THE FOOD SYSTEMS FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM IN 2006. BY JOINING FORCES WITH INDUSTRY PARTNERS, LIKE MMPA, THE GOAL IS TO PROVIDE A TRAINING EXPERIENCE THAT BROADENS THE STUDENT’S VISION OF THE FOOD INDUSTRY.

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

Breakfast on the Farm PROGRAM CONTINUES TO IMPROVE CONSUMER TRUST IN DAIRY FARMERS AND DAIRY FARMING BY TED FERRIS, MARY DUNCKEL AND ASHLEY KUSCHEL, MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Breakfast on the Farm (BOTF) continues to increase the trust consumers have in agriculture production systems. One of the goals of BOTF is to show consumers how modern farms work to give them a better appreciation of what farmers do to produce safe food, care for their animals and the environment.

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

reakfast on the Farm is a form of place-based education that provides the opportunity for consumers to experience the culture and setting of modern farming in their communities. Such educational tours put a face on the families who own the farms and this helps to create ties between participants, farmers, other industry professionals and volunteers. BOTF is an industry-wide program coordinated by Michigan State University Extension to help local producers and ag industry

professionals educate consumers about modern agricultural practices. During 2015, five dairy farms hosted BOTF events totaling 12,068 participants and 1,413 volunteers with an average of 2,700 participants and 285 volunteers per event. Continued efforts with exit surveys show that participants indicate BOTF educational tours increase their level of trust in farmers in several areas. Comparing consumer impressions about how farmers care for foodproducing animals, the environment

and safe-guarding milk before and after their tour show large shifts in their level of trust. Surveys were handed out as individuals exited the tour and participants were asked to rate what their level of trust was on several topics before and after their tour.

Shift in trust that dairy farmer will do the right thing with regard to caring for food-producing animals

Trust in farmers in five management areas Respondents were asked to rate their level of trust in farmers regarding five areas of farm management: Animal housing, animal care, milk safety (antibiotic free, etc.), protecting the environment and water quality. Comparing trust levels before and after the tour, there was an increase in all areas for respondents answering with ‘high’ or ‘very high’ trust in farmers, on a five-point scale: 1. Animal Housing: trust increased

22 percent, 35 percent for first time visitors 2. Animal Care: trust increased

18 percent, 30 percent for first-time visitors

THIS GRAPH DEMONSTRATES THE SIGNIFICANT SHIFT THAT OCCURRED IN TRUST THAT DAIRY FARMERS PROVIDE GOOD CARE FOR FOOD PRODUCING ANIMALS. ALONG WITH THE SHIFT TO ‘HIGH’ AND ‘VERY HIGH’ LEVEL OF TRUST, THE 1% AND 3% THAT HAD ‘VERY LOW’ AND ‘LOW’ TRUST BEFORE DROPPED TO .3% AND .5%, RESPECTIVELY, AFTER THE TOUR.

3. Milk Safety: trust increased

17 percent, 28 percent for first-time visitors 4. Environmental Protection:

trust increased 20 percent, 31 percent for first-time visitors

5. Water Quality: trust increased

22 percent, 35 percent for first time visitors Ninety-five to 96 percent left with high or very high trust in farmers for all management areas with a slightly lower level of 93 percent for water quality.

Why did trust increase? If participants had an increase in trust in farmers for one or more of the management areas, they were asked to indicate to what degree each of five aspects of the farm tour influenced their increase in trust. Responses indicated 65 percent to 68 percent had some increase in their level of trust based on a particular aspect of the tour.

Of those who felt their trust increased for at least one of the management areas, 43 percent and 39 percent rated “The openness of the tour to see how things are done on a modern farm” as ‘a major factor’ or ‘very important’, respectively. In addition, 44 percent and 36 percent rated “How farmers prevent milk from cows treated with antibiotics from being sold to the consumer” as ‘a major factor’ or ‘very important’, respectively. Comparing consumer impressions about how farmers care for foodproducing animals, the environment and how farmers safe-guard milk before and after their educational BOTF tour shows large shifts in their level of trust. Surveys also show that a number of factors are important to these shifts in trust. These include the openness of the tours, how farmers

prevent milk from cows treated with antibiotics from being sold to the consumer, seeing how animals are housed and managed, learning how the environment is being protected and reading the educational signs and displays.

Breakfast on the Farm continues this summer: August 13 - Zwerk & Sons Farms, Vassar, Michigan August 27 - Hartland Farms, Clayton, Michigan FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT BREAKFASTONTHEFARM.COM.

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THE BIRTH of the MMPA 4-H MILK MARKETING TOUR BY MELISSA HART

In 1935, a select group of young men were chosen for the first time, to wake up early, hitch a ride on a milk route and follow the milk as it went from the farm to the consumer learning how milk was

lder 4-H Club members were chosen to participate in the tour by the success of their dairy projects and after the tour, they each had to write an essay about their experience. Each year, two boys were chosen as winners, based on their essays, earning a trip to the annual National Dairy Show. The winning essay was published in the Michigan Milk Messenger. Merton Henry of Marne, wrote the winning inaugural milk marketing essay in his

piece entitled “From Cow to Consumer” in the September 1935 issue of the Milk Messenger. What Merton Henry wrote eightysome years ago is still relevant today transcending generations of consumers: “’Very few people realize the amount of work required to bring them their quart of milk every morning.’ Those were the words with which the milkman greeted me at 1:45 am Saturday, August the tenth as I stepped into his wagon and his big white horse drew us out into the deserted streets of Grand Rapids. The city peddler was not the only one with this idea. Chuck Groeneland, who took me to Grand Rapids in his truck Friday morning, had the same idea. Since I have followed the milk all the way to the doorsteps of my city cousins, I have arrived at the same conclusion. But let’s see how much work it actually requires to care for this milk from cow to consumer. “To begin with there are requirements on the farm placed there largely by city laws and the Milk Producers Association for the protection of the public. These requirements concern the production and care of the milk up until the time it leaves

marketed. Coordinated between Michigan 4-H and MMPA, this was the birth of the MMPA 4-H

A GROUP OF BOYS FROM GRAND RAPIDS IN 1935 READY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE FIRST MMPA 4-H MILK MARKETING TOUR.

Milk Marketing Tour that continues today every June at the MMPA headquarters in Novi.

POWER of the Past. » VISION for the Future.

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

the farm. The public takes it for granted that their milk is clean and produced under the best of conditions. If they get their milk from a fair-sized city they are probably right, if they buy from a small dairy in a small town they may be wrong. Let’s take a look at the conditions under which milk is produced for the bulk of our dairies and creameries. First, every barn must allow at least four hundred cubic feet of air space and four square feet of window space for each cow. The idea back of this is that with plenty of air a cow is less likely to be sick and therefore is less likely to produce diseased milk; the window space provides plenty of sunlight, sun kills germs and so we have cleaner milk.”

per day and announced all-milk price of about $1.75/cwt. This was in the throes of the Great Depression. Through the years the students not only learned how milk was marketed but were treated to baseball games, watched the production of the radio show, Marshall Wells Farm Forum program, at WJR and participated in a television show in Detroit. In the 1950s, the tour was suspended for two years because of the war. Two decades later, the women’s movement hitched a ride on the tour and girls were invited to participate for the very first time in 1974.

Henry went on to explain in detail about his tour and the rigors of delivering a high quality product from cow to consumer.

It was important to the leadership in Michigan agriculture that youth learn how milk was marketed but little did they know that the infant years of the tour they would cultivate a passion and produce one of their own cherished leaders of MMPA.

The early tours focused on the Detroit market. In the 30s, nearly all milk for Detroit was first shipped to country receiving stations then sent to Detroit dairies. There were about 12,000 producers supplying the MMPA Detroit market with average daily deliveries of about 175 pounds in June. Total market deliveries were about 2 million pounds

On one of the early tours, a Branch County youth named Jack Barnes was selected to participate. He reflected on the tour, “It was one of my most cherished 4-H experiences. Just the thought of a farm youngster from our county, almost 150 miles from Detroit going to the big city in the early 1930s was all by itself awesome and even frightening.”

Barnes’ biggest take away from the tour was that farmers had an organization dedicated to helping them. When he graduated from college, he served in the military and upon discharge he began his career at MMPA as a field man in 1959 and retired as the General Manager in 1985. This year marks the 79th time that Michigan 4-H and MMPA will team up to provide the MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing tour. When the two-day tour is finished, the students were tested on what they learned and will be interviewed in July to sort out the top five attendees who will be rewarded with a trip to the National 4-H Dairy Conference in Madison, Wisconsin. MMPA leadership recognized the importance of developing future dairy industry leaders in 1935 and today they continue to spur on the young leadership required to carry the cooperative for another hundred years. More information about the 2016 tour can be found on page 20. MERTON HENRY OF MARNE WAS THE FIRST MMPA 4-H MILK MARKETING TOUR PARTICIPANT TO HAVE HIS ESSAY PUBLISHED IN THE MICHIGAN MILK MESSENGER AND WIN A TRIP TO THE NATIONAL DAIRY SHOW.

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2 0 1 6

MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing T O U R What are the advantages of belonging to a cooperative? What tests are performed on a load of milk before it reaches the consumer? What career paths are vital to the dairy industry?

wenty-two youth explored the answers to these questions—and many more—as they learned about milk marketing and cooperatives at the MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing Tour. For 79 years, MMPA has welcomed 4-H and FFA members to the cooperative’s headquarters to be immersed in the operations of the dairy cooperative and educated about milk marketing principles. “The milk marketing tour has helped me learn more about the opportunities in the dairy industry. I was able to realize just how big and fast the industry is growing,” Miriah Dershem from St. Johns revealed on the second day. “This tour will help my career in the future by advancing my knowledge of the industry and helping me pick a field to go into. I want to work in dairy but this tour just opened up many more potential career options for me.” The two-day conference—co-sponsored by MMPA and Michigan State University Extension—is the longest running 4-H tour in existence with over 4,000 participant alumni. Throughout the tour, participants see how milk travels from the farm to the consumer while learning about the role of milk marketing cooperatives. Dairy-related presentations by MMPA president and staff members during the tour helped students understand the many people and job functions required to keep a cooperative up and running. The students also learned how milk is processed through a dairy plant and visited the Michigan Dairy in Livonia to see firsthand what happens to milk after it leaves the farm. “The MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing Tour opened my eyes to what happens to milk after it leaves the farm and how many people it takes to process and package it,” said Justin Berens of Wayland. Two of last year’s participants, Allison Schafer and Mason Horning, chaired the event. The participants with the highest scores on a dairy industry and cooperative quiz administered at the end of the tour will be invited to interview in East Lansing on Monday, July 18. The top five interviewees will be announced during the State 4-H Dairy Awards Night on Thursday, July 21 and awarded a trip to the National 4-H Dairy Conference in Madison, Wisconsin.

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

This year’s attendees included: Abby Ackling Saline Jacob Armstrong Coldwater Gerrit Baker Byron Center Chelsea Barnes Zeeland Justin Berens Wayland Amanda Breuninger Dexter Abbe Cavanaugh Gagetown Miriah Dershem St. Johns Brock Gingrich LeRoy Jonah Haskins Marlette Carmen Hicks St. Johns Thomas Hull North Adams Mariah Jansen Sturgis Adriana Jury Sturgis Nathan Marsh Montgomery Jessie Nash Elsie Matthew Poling Addison Daniel Remenar St. Johns Jacob Rottier Wayland Andrew Sanford Deckerville Holden Schrader Dewitt Jennifer VanLieu Reading Courtney Wightman Owendale

DURING THE MILK MARKETING TOUR, 4-HERS TOOK PART IN INTERACTIVE PRESENTATIONS AND ACTIVITIES INCLUDING: LEARNING HOW TO PERFORM A SNAP MILK TEST, PLAYING WHIRLYBALL AND GOING ON A PLANT TOUR. BELOW: PARTICIPANTS AND CHAPERONES VISIT THE MICHIGAN DAIRY IN LIVONIA, MICHIGAN TO LEARN HOW MILK IS PROCESSED INTO A VARIETY OF DAIRY PRODUCTS.

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

Elwood Kirkpatrick on his Presidency at Elwood Kirkpatrick January 30, 1937 – May 16, 2016 National dairy industry leader and former president of MMPA remembered.

Editor’s note: The following Q&A was published in the March 2007 issue of the Michigan Milk Messenger immediately before the late Elwood Kirkpatrick officially retired from the MMPA board of directors.

s his presidency with MMPA comes to a close, Elwood Kirkpatrick takes time out from his busy schedule to talk about the cooperative and the future of the dairy industry. What has been the most rewarding to your during your time as MMPA’s President? The loyalty of our members. We went through some pretty tough times, particularly when we owned McDonald Dairy and we were not outpaying our competition, but our members stayed loyal to the cooperative. In what ways has MMPA changed since you first became president? When I became president in 1981, we had about 8,700 members producing 3.1 billion pounds of milk. Today [2007], we have about 2,400 members producing 3.6 billion pounds of milk. Membership continues to decline and our member farms are getting larger. What are your proudest accomplishments as MMPA’s president? Probably when we were able to merge with Michigan Producers Dairy. It allowed us to control a larger amount of milk, which eventually led to our joint venture with Leprino Foods. That move has been very good for our members.

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

What suggestions would you give to young dairy farmers regarding their role in the cooperative? I would advise young dairy farmers to be involved in their cooperative. From the grassroots level to leadership, it is the responsibility of all members to stay involved. We are each owners of the cooperative and we need to pay attention to management and cooperative finances. What will you miss most about MMPA? The people. Both the members and the staff. Over the years I have enjoyed meeting with members to talk about the industry and where we are going. I have enjoyed the support of the MMPA board of directors. We also have a very dedicated staff who all seem to have the attitude that MMPA is owned by dairy farmers and they operate accordingly and are very loyal to the organization. What do you see as the biggest challenge for the dairy industry going forward? Certainly as farms grow larger we will face increasing demands in the area of the environment. We are also facing an increasing demand for corn and other feed grains so our feed costs will be higher. We will have to see prices for milk increase to cover these higher input costs. Our tribute to Elwood Kirkpatric continues on page 24.

Reflects MMPA

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MMPA AND USDEC LEADER

Elwood Kirkpatrick Leaves Lasting Legacy BY TOM QUAIFE Editor’s note: The following article was published by the U.S. Dairy Export Council in tribute to Elwood Kirkpatrick following his passing in May.

he year was 1995. Beef, cotton, wine, almonds and other U.S. industries had established robust export organizations. The U.S. dairy industry had not. Elwood Kirkpatrick, president of the Michigan Milk Producers Association, characteristically puffed a cigarette in a Washington, D.C. hotel booth. He had a decision to make: Was he willing to serve as the first chairman of the fledgling U.S. Dairy Export Council? Kirkpatrick leaned across the table and looked at Tom Suber, the new organization’s president. “I need you to tell me, from your heart of hearts. Will this succeed?” Suber recalled Kirkpatrick asking. On May 16, Elwood C. Kirkpatrick died at his Michigan home under hospice care. He was 79. USDEC did succeed, with Kirkpatrick serving as chairman for nine years. This was on top of his other responsibilities. He was a lifetime dairy farmer who led the Michigan Milk Producers Association for 27 years (1981–2007). Among other things, he served as a board member of Dairy Management Inc., the Michigan State Fair and North Huron Schools.

Bridge between early stakeholders “Elwood Kirkpatrick brought legitimacy to the fact there was this substantive effort to grow U.S. dairy exports,” 24

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

said Suber. That exchange in the hotel booth illustrated his thoroughness and commitment. “Elwood was seeking, as any good accountant would, a final testing of the assumptions,” said Suber. “Was the staff committed? Were we counting on overly rosy assumptions of the markets? Had we done our due diligence before we put his considerable integrity and credibility on the line?” The gamble paid off. In 1995, U.S. dairy export volumes were the equivalent of 4.4 percent of the U.S. milk supply. By 2015, the portion of U.S. milk going into products and ingredients used overseas more than tripled, to 14 percent.

Kirkpatrick served as an early bridge in a historically unprecedented dairy partnership between diverse U.S. stakeholders: farmers, processors and USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. USDEC is managed by Dairy Management Inc. “It was important having Elwood and Tom Suber working together,” said Tom Gallagher, chief executive officer for DMI, a role he assumed in 1995. “Elwood was the chairman of a large coop. He was instrumental in getting the checkoff established. He was principled.” Kirkpatrick got Leprino Foods, Dean Foods and Kraft Foods to become members of USDEC because he was able to “communicate the necessity of processors and farmers working together in the global market,” said Suber. In addition, “the fact that a Midwest cooperative leader was willing to join with a national group like ours showed that this was going to help all farmers nationally instead of just those geographically located to benefit from exports.”

Long-range vision across oceans Jerry Kozak, retired president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, said he vividly remembers Kirkpatrick’s vision for exports in the early days of the U.S. Dairy Export Council. “Back then, the notion held by most was that the U.S. dairy industry was primarily a domestic industry and that the importance of exports was easily dismissed,” Kozak said. Kirkpatrick “fought for the industry to stay focused in building resources to assist both cooperatives and proprietary companies in investing in export markets." “And, oh boy, was he right! Elwood was a visionary who saw the huge potential of the value of the U.S. dairy industry becoming a major player in the global arena,” Kozak said.

Ability to find unity Kirkpatrick had a way of unifying people for the common cause. “His gentlemanly manner helped bring together farmers, co-op leaders and other industry players to achieve results,” Kozak said. “Elwood could also be tough, persistent and very persuasive.” That observation was affirmed by Velmar Green, a Michigan dairy farmer who served on the Michigan Milk Producers Association board while Kirkpatrick was MMPA president. “I think Elwood's greatest attribute was his ability to hear divergent views on an issue and get them resolved with everyone working together,” Green said. “We had heated discussions on many issues before the board, but with his leadership we always ended the discussions in a united position.” Kirkpatrick put his “full time and heart” into working for the success of the dairy industry, Green said.

Current MMPA President Ken Nobis called Kirkpatrick a “strong and dedicated leader” whose vision extended beyond state and national boundaries. “He realized that if we were to continue to grow our industry, we needed to look outside the borders of the U.S. He recognized that a growing middle class in other parts of the globe would want to enhance their diets with higher protein products like dairy.”

Higher prices, more security for U.S. dairy industry Success required hard work above and beyond his many other duties. “Realizing that the U.S. had little experience exporting dairy, he knew the industry could use some help getting our foot in the dairy export world. He put in long hours helping to bring the industry together in the formation of the U.S. Dairy Export Council,” Nobis said. Jim Mulhern, current president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, saw Kirkpatrick's vision for exports even before the U.S. Dairy Export Council formed. “When the world market was little more than a dumping ground for subsidized European exports and low-cost product from New Zealand, Elwood argued long and convincingly that we needed to establish a U.S. presence in that market or risk losing ground,” Mulhern said. “Where few others could see any potential, Elwood saw opportunity. And to his everlasting credit, others became convinced that we needed to get into the dairy export game.” “Today, the export results speak for themselves. If we didn’t have world demand for the 25-30 billion pounds of milk that we currently export, our domestic milk prices would be much lower. Our industry is stronger and more secure because of Elwood’s leadership. We mourn his passing as we salute his accomplishments,” Mulhern said.

TOP: KIRKPATRICK WAS ACTIVE IN COMMUNICATING THE NEEDS OF DAIRY FARMERS TO NATIONAL LEGISLATORS. IN 1982, HE TESTIFIED BEFORE A HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AGRICULTURE SUBCOMMITTEE. BOTTOM: KIRKPATRICK INTERACTED WITH MMPA MEMBERS FREQUENTLY AS PRESIDENT OF THE CO-OP FOR 26 YEARS. OPPOSITE: KIRKPATRICK (LEFT) SHAKES HANDS WITH GOV. JIM BLANCHARD AT THE GROUNDBREAKING OF THE LEPRINO FOODS CHEESE PLANT IN ALLENDALE IN 1988.

Leadership qualities: calm, reasonable, reflective Kirkpatrick was a steadying influence, like a ballast on a ship. “He was calm. He was reasonable. He was reflective. Leaders like that are rare,” said Suber. The entire U.S. dairy industry remembers Elwood C. Kirkpatrick, remembering how this Michigan farmer upped the ante for exports, making a gamble that would pay off for decades to come.

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

Prepare for the Veterinarian Feed Directive BY DR. JAMES AVERILL, MICHIGAN STATE VETERINARIAN, MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

essential to human medicine and being fed to animals to VFD status. Also, as a part of the new FDA changes, water soluble antibiotics, which are important to human medicine, will now require a prescription from a veterinarian. This transition of water soluble drugs will include Aureomycin® (Chlortetracycline). Producers must work with a licensed veterinarian with whom they have an established veterinarian-client-patient relationship in order to use feed containing a VFD drug. The veterinarian’s primary role is to advise and guide the producer (the client) in determining which medications are appropriate for their animals (the patients). This relationship must be established and recognized by the veterinarian prior to any VFD order being written.

he use and distribution of antibiotics in animal agriculture is changing and producers of all sizes need to begin preparing to adapt in the coming year. The upcoming changes are being implemented by the Food and Drug Administration, who is responsible for regulating drugs used in both humans and animals. The FDA has expanded the list of feed-grade antibiotics classified as Veterinary Feed Directive drugs. Historically, a majority of feed-grade antibiotics used in or on animal feeds have been available to producers over-the-counter. However, the current expansion is moving all human medically important feed-grade antibiotics to the VFD drug process by January 1, 2017. In addition, the FDA has aligned with drug companies to voluntarily revise label claims. Sponsors are removing growth promotion and feed efficiency as allowable uses, effectively preventing veterinarians from writing VFD orders for these purposes. So far, only a small number of antibiotics (tilmicosin, florfenicol, and avilamycin) have been restricted in feedgrade use under a VFD. While some industries, like swine, are very familiar with the VFD process because of the common use of Pulmotil® (tilmicosin), many producers have never had to use the VFD process to acquire antibiotics. With the expansion, this will soon change as nearly all sectors of animal agriculture will be affected, including honey bees and other “minor-use” species. It is important to note not all antibiotics will be considered VFD drugs. The use of injectable antibiotics will not be affected. At this time, FDA has only moved antibiotics

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

Some other key components of the VFD process for the producer are:

• You can fill a VFD order at any mill, retailer or other establishment listed as a distributor with the FDA, a complete list can be found at www.michigan.gov/vfd. • In order for feed mills to fill requests for feed with VFD drugs, a current VFD order must be on file. • VFD orders cannot be written for longer than six months. The VFD drug feed must be fed out prior to the expiration date on the VFD order. • A copy of the VFD order must be kept by the producer for two years. If inspected by the FDA, producers must be able to provide VFD orders, when requested • Labels of VFD drugs must have the following statement: “Caution: Federal law restricts medicated feed containing this VFD drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.” The FDA is also maintaining a list of VFD drugs on their website. For the most up-to-date version, visit www. michigan.gov/vfd. With more products requiring veterinary directives and less feed-grade antibiotics available through retail outlets, more producers will need to seek veterinarian guidance either for a VFD, or other products to use in their place. Please do your part to understand the VFD. You play a vital role in treating animals and protecting food safety. A website resource has been created by MDARD to help producers and other stakeholders receive the most up-todate information, www.michigan.gov/vfd. PHOTO CREDIT: MEGAN SPRAGUE, MDARD

Michigan Students Learn To Lead with a Purpose, Thanks to Fuel Up to Play 60 Brought back by popular demand, the second Michigan Fuel Up to Play 60 (FUTP60) Student Ambassador Summit inspired students to lead healthy, sustainable changes in their schools and communities. On May 10, over 40 students representing Michigan Fuel Up to Play 60 schools gathered at Ford Field for an engaging, day-long leadership training, where they learned to be great role models for their peers across the state of Michigan. The second Michigan Fuel Up to Play 60 Student Ambassador Summit was designed to boost and strengthen enthusiasm among student leaders to go back and engage peers in wellness initiatives at school and in the community. During the day-long event, they learned firsthand from a panel of

influential leaders who shared personal success stories and steps to achieve greatness. Additionally, a team of 2015-16 Michigan State FFA officers conducted an interactive activity focused on boosting leadership and strengthening character skills. Former Detroit Lions All-Pro player Jason Hanson and Detroit Lions Youth Football coaches also participated in the event. The 2016 Michigan Fuel Up to Play 60 Student Ambassador Summit was sponsored by the Detroit Lions, Michigan Department of Education, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Michigan State University Extension, and United Dairy Industry of Michigan. Fuel Up to Play 60, an in-school nutrition and physical activity program, empowers youth to work with key school decision makers to plan and implement strategies for increasing access to nutrient-rich foods and physical activity options available in their schools. Fuel Up to Play 60 program is launched by the National

Dairy Council and the National Football League, in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture, to help encourage today’s youth to lead healthier lives. “As a dairy farmer, I find FUTP60 invaluable because it emphasizes what we've been trying to share for years – that eating healthy and being active will make students better learners and set a blueprint for a lifetime of health and well-being,” said MMPA Member Cheri Chapin. Chapin shared her excitement for the program by welcoming the students and their teachers. After the summit she exclaimed, “I encourage all Michigan dairy farmers to contact the schools in their area to see if they participate in Fuel Up to Play 60!” .

TO FIND OUT WHICH SCHOOLS IN YOUR AREA ARE ENROLLED IN THE PROGRAM OR TO LEARN HOW TO GET YOUR SCHOOL ACTIVE IN THE PROGRAM, CONTACT ANNE GUYER AT ANNE@MILKMEANSMORE.ORG.

STUDENTS LEARNED HOW EATING HEALTHY, INCLUDING DAIRY, AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY EVERY DAY WILL PUT THEM ON THE PATH TO SUCCESS. BOTH OF THESE IMPORTANT LESSONS WERE INCORPORATED THROUGHOUT THE DAY.

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

MERCHANDISE

Fly Control Temperatures are on the rise and as the temperatures increases, so do the flies. Fly population control is very important on dairy operations during the warm time of the year. Minimizing disease transmission to livestock and humans and preventing product contamination are extra challenges during fly season. MMPA Merchandise stocks two products members can purchase to use as tools in their fly management program: QuikStrike and Prozap LD-44Z.

Prozap LD-44Z MMPA Merchandise stocks Prozap LD-44Z farm insect fogger. The active ingredients in Prozap LD-44Z—Pyrethrins and Piperonyl Butoxide—repel and kill a host of insects. Prozap LD-44Z contains no CFC’s and may be used in milkrooms and livestock housing areas, if used according to label directions. Prozap LD-44Z is available in a 20-oz. aerosol can. Stock #: 5501

Member price: $11.18/can.

These are service personnel only. Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB 24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026 For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392

QuikStrike

or one of the following

QuikStrike strips are a ready to use, self-contained product, designed to be placed in fly foraging areas. The active ingredient, Nithiazine, kills flies seconds after they feed on Quikstrike. The flies are attracted to the sugar base matrix and a strong fly pheromone attractant. QuikStrike is effective only after flies ingest the active ingredient Nithiazine. Therefore, it needs to be placed in areas where flies actively feed. The best placement is 2-4 ft. above ground level in an area protected from children, animals, direct sunlight, wind, and rain. QuikStrike strips are effective for six to eight weeks and are helpful in controlling flies in calf raising areas, milking barns and feed storages. QuikStrike is available in a box containing 2 strips per package. Stock #: 5503

Chemical, Sanitizer and Teat Dip Contact Information

Member price: $19.13/pkg.

service representatives: Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636 Pat Mitchell 7273 N. Rollin Hwy. Addison, MI 49220 517-403-0928

Three Ways to Order your MMPA Merchandise 1. Place order through your milk hauler 2. Call in your order:

Duane Farmer, Supervisor......................................................989-317-8370

Toll Free..................................................................................... 877-367-6455

Orders (Novi)..................................................... 800-572-5824 then dial 2

3. Fax in your order:

MMPA Merchandise fax........................................................... 989-317-8372

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

PREMIUMS MERCHANDISE

MMPA Quality Premium Program

MMPA Member Testing Fees

Somatic Cell Count premiums and deductions (in addition to Federal Order SCC Adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels:

Payment for testing will be made through an automatic milk check deduction. All costs are listed per individual sample.

50,000 or below............ +55¢/cwt.

201,000-225,000........... +20¢/cwt.

51,000-75,000................+50¢/cwt.

226,000-250,000............+15¢/cwt.

76,000-100,000.............+45¢/cwt.

251,000-300,000...........+00¢/cwt.

101,000-125,000.............+40¢/cwt.

301,000-400,000..........- 30¢/cwt.

126,000-150,000........... +35¢/cwt.

401,000-500,000........ -$1.00/cwt.

151,000-175,000.............+30¢/cwt.

501,000-600,000.........-$1.50/cwt.

176,000-200,000.......... +25¢/cwt.

601,000 and greater.. -$2.00/cwt.

Cow Tests: $1 Cow samples JUNE be tested for: Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae, Strep non ag, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative staph, gram negative and/or SCC. Additional testing can be coordinated through your MMPA member representative to include:

A payment of 5¢/cwt. will be added for each of the following, if the count is equal to or below: • 10,000 Raw Bacteria Count • 20,000 Pre-Incubated (PI) Count

Raw bacteria count and components.

There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for: • Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count A high raw count deduction will be waived if the producer has received the quality premium the previous three months for raw bacteria count.

All costs are listed per individual sample.

To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month: • Positive drug residue • Abnormal freeze points • High load count shipment or rejected load shipment • #3 or #4 sediment • Raw Bacteria count over 100,000 The count levels for raw and PI will be determined on one test run per month. To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month To qualify for MMPA volume premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month • An average somatic cell count of 350,000 or less

All herd tests must be scheduled with the laboratory through your MMPA member representative.

Additional Tests Available: • Mycoplasma Cultures...........................................................................$13 • Bacteriology Cultures...........................................................................$15 – Includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility.

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea - PCR.........................................................................................................$40 - ELISA........................................................................................................$6 • Johne’s Milk Test - PCR.........................................................................................................$40 - ELISA – cows.........................................................................................$6 - ELISA – tank......................................................................................... $10 • Bovine Leukosis Test - ELISA – cows.........................................................................................$6 - ELISA – tank......................................................................................... $10 • Milk Pregnancy ELISA.................................................................... $4.50 Lab test results by mail: $2/month All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA member representative or the laboratory for proper sample submission protocol.

ANTEL-BIO TESTING Loc/Hlr/Producer # _________________________________ Sample Date______________________________ Member name_______________________________________________________________________________ Sample ID__________________________________________________________________________________ BLV ELISA__________ Johne’s ELISA____________ Johne’s PCR____________ Pregnancy_____________

Refer to above for current pricing. The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer. This card MUST be filled out completely when sending in samples to be tested by Antel-Bio to avoid potential service charges.

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

FREELINERS To place your freeliner, please fax your ad to 248-426-3412 or email your ad to Muszynski@mimilk.com.

Bulls Registered Holstein Bulls: We now have a nice selection of service age bulls, sired by top AI sires. Green Meadow Farms, Elsie, MI. 989-862-4291 or visit www. greenmeadowfarms.com. Service age Holstein bulls. Call Steve Alexander, 810-622-8548 evenings or 810-404-8548. Registered Holstein breeding bulls, all AI sired from top bulls, b&w, red, red carrier and some polled, high production, low SCC herd. Bulls are priced to sell. Ver Hage Holsteins, 269-673-4886 or 269-217-6076, ask for Tim. www.verhageholsteins.com.

Cows & Heifers Six AI sired heifers due in June and July. All are bred to Gold Chip. Call 574-3702667.

Equipment Kuhn Discbine FC283, $7,500. Bou-Matic electronic sort gate with 200 pedometer ID collars, $5,000. 231-373-4673.

New Holland 240 Forage Chopper with KP, hayhead & 3 row corn head. Field ready, excellent condition, always housed, $44,000. 989-345-1501.

60-ft. Patz conveyor with 16-in. belt. 65-ft. Patz cable feeder with 12-in. belt. Both in good condition, $1,500 each. 231-878-3768.

18-ft. silage box. Harsh hoist Deutz feeder. 231-425-6913.

John Deere 3950 chopper, long tongue, middle alert, 2-row 30-in. corn head, 7-ft. hay head, $3,250 obo. 517-610-4594. Extra John Deere 7-ft. hay head, $1,000. 517-610-4594 Circle-C Model RT 8000 super conditioner, air adjust tension on rolls, 8-ft. pick-up, $4,850 obo. 517610-4594 H&S Hydraulic Drive Feed Wagon on H&S 14-ton trailer, $1,500. Also H&S 500 Forage Box for parts, bad floor, $500 obo. 989-848-5541 (no Sunday calls).

Freeliner Policy The Freeliners column is open to current MMPA members who wish to advertise—at no charge—goods or services relating directly to their dairy farm operations. • An item submitted will be published for no more than

Dairy Equipment

two consecutive months

Two Mueller bulk tanks, 1,000 gal and 1,250 gal., both have new style

requested). After that, it will be

washers. 734-231-0633.

Misc.

(one month, unless otherwise withdrawn. • It will be published again for no more than two consecutive

4x5 bales of dry cow hay.

months only if the member

Low potassium, stored inside grass. 989-642-3262

resubmits the item by writing or calling the Novi office. • Reference to a name of a firm or other commercial enterprise with which a member is involved will be deleted, with permission of the member. • If the member does not wish such deletion, he/she may choose to have the item published as a Classified Ad at the regular per-line Classified Ad rate. • Freeliners must be received by the 10th of the month preceding the desired month of publication. Example: To be included in the August issue, the freeliner must be at the MMPA office by July 10.

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

CLASSIFIED ADS

Cost for classifieds is $20 per ad, up to six lines. All ads must be received by the 10th of the month before the month of desired publication. Send check or money order for $20 for up to 6 lines with your order. MMPA neither sponsors nor endorses products or services advertised in the Messenger. You may submit your ads by: MAIL:

Classified Ads | Michigan Milk Messenger

P.O. BOX 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002

EMAIL: Muszynski@mimilk.com FAX: 248-426-3412

OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can fix

FOR SALE: 5000-4000-3000-

your scabbled floors. Diamond sawed

2500-2000-1500 OH MUELLER

grooves, no hammering or cracking

LATE MODEL BULK TANK MILK

of concrete. No hoof damage. Call

TANKS, complete, will trade.

Opperman Grooving Inc., Portland.

1-800-558-0112.

517-647-7381. WANTED TO BUY: USED BULK MILK DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC:

TANKS, 200 gallons & larger, Sunset

NO water needed. Wider, rougher

& Mueller, 1-800-558-0112.

grooves for better traction. We also offer texturing for your previously

DRY HAY & STRAW (large & small

grooved floors. 3 operators will travel

bales) & BARLEY FOR FEED.

Michigan and other states. No interest

989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

payment terms. Est. since 1987. Call 1-800-365-3361.

FARMERS: INCREASE YIELDS 7 PROFIT by using the 1# crop

CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-

production system. Distributors

STATE SCABBLING, home of the 2”

needed. 260-768-8137 ext. 1

wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices. (800) 554-2288. www. tristatescabbling.com

BARN WHITE WASHING AND CLEANING WITH HIGH PRESSURE AIR: Serving all Michigan and

A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS

Indiana. Miller Spray Service, Inc.

UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/

574-825-9776.

texturing provides high quality traction in new & old concrete, fast service. Call for your below pricing 989-635-1494. BLUE RIBBON HOOF TRIMMING, LLC.

PTO and Automatic Start Generators 1-800-248-8070 M-40 South Hamilton, MI 49419 www.hamiltondist.com

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS OVER 100 SERVICE AGE BULLS FOR YOUR SELECTION! A special herd sire or a truck load of breeder bulls. Ready to go to work on your farm!

• Sired by the top sires from the U.S. and Canada • From our top production cows

GREEN MEADOW FARMS 6400 Hollister Road, Elsie, MI 48831 Phone: 989-862-4291

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

Concrete Grooving and Texturing Call: Jeff Brisky - Owner Toll Free: 1-800-294-1202 Cell: 1-716-353-1137

POLICIES MERCHANDISE

MMPA Policy on Drug Residue in Milk MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED

MILK SHIPPED — POSITIVE DRUGS CONFIRMED

If a member suspects milk in the farm bulk tank contains drug residue:

If a member ships milk from the farm and testing by approved laboratory methods show that the milk contained drug residue, the member will be assessed the penalties imposed by the state regulatory agency and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums.

1. Call a MMPA member representative to have the milk in the tank tested. A “hold” must be placed on the tank contents until the test results are known.

OR 2. The member can test the milk on the farm. If dumped, the member must be sure to take the stick reading, record the number of pounds of milk and report the information to their member representative. • If the tank tests negative (no drugs present), the milk JUNE be released and shipped. • If the tank tests positive (drugs present), the member representative will authorize the member to dump the tank of milk. The member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* • If for any reason MMPA personnel must pick up samples at the farm for testing three or more times within 12 consecutive months, the member involved will be charged $25 per trip.

If a loss is incurred by MMPA due to the disposal and/or non-marketability of a load of milk or milk products containing drug residue, then the member responsible will be provided an invoice for the entire value of the loss plus transportation and disposal costs as required by the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. This invoice JUNE be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made. Milk from that member’s farm tank must be tested and found clear of drugs before the next tank of milk can be picked up. A hauler whose entire load sample shows the presence of drugs will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all show negative.

ALL POSITIVE DRUG RESIDUE SHIPMENTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE ENFORCEMENT AGENCY.

MMPA Milk Quality Policy QUALITY QUESTIONABLE When a member suspects that the milk in the farm bulk tank is of poor quality they should call a MMPA member representative who will authorize milk in the tank to be dumped. If the member dumps the milk on their own, they must be sure to take the stick reading and record the number of pounds of milk, and report the information to the member representative. If the milk is dumped, the member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* In order to receive payment for an added water voluntary dump, the member must install a Swingline Safety Switch. The Swingline Safety Switch can be ordered from the Mt. Pleasant warehouse. The MMPA member representative will verify the switch has been installed. Reimbursement for the Swingline Safety Switch and the voluntary dump will then be made to the member. The member assumes all liability for losses incurred as a result of shipping poor quality or contaminated milk.

MILK SHIPPED – HIGH BACTERIA COUNT

If… 1. a load of milk is received (unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. a sample from the load has a bacteria count of 300,000 or more and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members having a bacteria count of 300,000 or more, then the member or members involved will be charged the value of one-half of one day’s production** and will be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums. * The member will only be paid for two (2) voluntary dumps in a rolling 12 month period. ** For members using more than one bulk tank, the assessment will be based on the value of milk in the tank or tanks in violation of the MMPA quality policy.

REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT

If… 1. a load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. the milk cannot be sold through normal Grade A channels for reasons of quality which results in the load being sold or disposed of at a loss to MMPA, and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members that caused the contamination or rejection of the load, then, the member or members responsible will be charged the full value of the loss to MMPA plus transportation and disposal costs, and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums except for loads rejected for temperature. 4. MMPA will provide an invoice to the member for the amount of the loss, to be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made. If a member has three or more occurrences within 12 consecutive months, that member must appear before the MMPA board of directors to review steps taken on the farm to correct the quality problem which will enable MMPA to continue to market the milk for this member.

HAULER A hauler whose entire load sample exceeds 300,000 cells per mL bacteria count will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all are less than 100,000. A hauler will be responsible for all costs incurred by MMPA for loads rejected for temperature. Charges and assessments made under this program will be withheld from milk checks of members or haulers involved.

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary | FOR MILK MARKETED IN MAY 2016 Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

% This Month Year Ago Change

National Trends* (million pounds) 2016

2015 % Change

California

3,553

3,654

-2.8

Wisconsin

2,635

2,528

+4.2

New York

1,290

1,230

+4.9

Idaho

1,256

1,234

+1.8

Pennsylvania

965

962

+0.3

Michigan

955

893

+6.9

Texas

925

912

+1.4

Minnesota

844

826

+2.2

New Mexico

680

707

-3.8

Washington

577

+0.0

Ohio

487

485

+0.4

Indiana

362

355

+2.0

Total U.S.*

17,450

17,246

+1.2

Butterfat Price /lb............................................................................................ $2.2846

U.S. Y-T-D*

83,912 82,473

+1.7

Other Solids Price /lb.....................................................................................$0.0529

* For 23 States

Total Class 1 Sales

520,708,332

501,399,071

+3.85

Total Class 2 Sales

343,231,272

337,925,731

+1.57

Total Class 3 Sales

636,326,768

316,241,315

+101.22

Total Class 4 Sales

325,375,822

331,070,810

-1.72

1,825,642,194

1,486,636,927

+22.80

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

28.5%

33.7%

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers........................................................................................................5,394 Avg. Daily Production per farm...................................................................... 10,918 Avg. Protein Test.................................................................................................... 3.07%

Production

Avg. Butterfat Test................................................................................................3.69% Avg. Oth Solids Test..............................................................................................5.77% Avg. SCC - MMPA............................................................................................. 160,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb................................................................................................. $1.4935

Class III Price @ 3.5%.......................................................................................... $12.76 Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt.................................................................... $0.85 Uniform Price at 3.51............................................................................................ $13.61 SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000....................................................................$0.00071

AMS Survey Prices Product

Monthly Avg

Cheese /lb.................................................................................................................1.4104 Butter /lb................................................................................................................ 2.0580 Nonfat Dry Milk /lb.............................................................................................0.7607 Dry Whey /lb.......................................................................................................0.2505

MESSENGER | JULY 2016

MMPA STAFF MERCHANDISE

MMPA Field Staff*

Novi Headquarters

Northwest Area Supervisor Ben Chapin, Blanchard......................................989-289-0731

Main Office Local line...................................................... 248-474-6672 Toll free......................................................... 800-572-5824

Energy Auditor Frank Brazeau, Oconto, WI................................906-250-0337

General Manager Joe Diglio................................................................ ext. 200

Animal Care Coordinator Deb Gingrich, Leroy...........................................248-520-3580

Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys......................................................... ext. 240

Lyndsay Earl, Ludington.....................................231-519-2455

Member and Government Relations Sheila Burkhardt..................................................... ext. 208

Sarah Michalek, Portland...................................248-305-0537 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard.................................. 248-756-2062

Northeast Area Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Christy Dinsmoore, Fairgrove.............................248-513-7920 Animal Care Coordinator, Energy Auditor Lindsay Green, East Lansing...............................989-488-8159 Ben Butcher, Durand.........................................248-514-5273 Ashley Herriman, Alpena...................................269-245-6632 Bridget Moore, Snover......................................231-414-4539

South Area Supervisor & Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers....................................269-967-7351 Krista Beeker, Topeka, IN...................................269-986-6792 Dave Brady, Grass Lake..... 517-522-5965 or (c) 517-937-9061 Elyse Martin, Charlotte......................................810-701-6460 Joe Packard, Kalamazoo....................................248-520-3481 Emily Smith, Bronson.........................................269-535-0822

Quality Amandeep Dhillon.................................................. ext. 305

Officers

Manufactured Product Sales Jim Dodson............................................................. ext. 229

Mark Halbert, Vice President

Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula........................................................... ext. 219

Joe Diglio, GM / Secretary

Member Services Dean Letter................................................... 989-289-9251

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

Milk Sales/Dispatch Carl Rasch............................................................... ext. 244

Directors-At-Large

Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt.................................................... ext. 210 Management Information Systems Gregory Schulkey.................................................... ext. 237 Andrew Caldwell.....................................................ext. 304 Communications Allison Stuby........................................................... ext. 296 Human Resources Cindy Tilden........................................................... ext. 220 Member Relations Jessica Welch.......................................................... ext. 303

Other Services Bulk Tank Calibration Gary Best, Lapeer............. 810-664-4984 or (c) 586-484-9279 Mastitis Management Specialist Steve Lehman, Ithaca....... 989-875-3441 or (c) 989-330-1638 Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor Katie Pierson, Coleman.....................................989-289-9686

Manufacturing Plants Constantine Dave Davis, Plant Manager............................ 269-435-2835 Ovid Colt Johnson, Plant Manager........................ 989-834-2221

MMPA Labs In Michigan....................................................800-572-5824 Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.)..................... 989-834-2515 Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.).........800-391-7560

Main Line......................................................... 989-317-8370 Toll Free............................................................ 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi)..................................800-572-5824, then dial 2 Fax................................................................... 989-317-8372

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

Josep Barenys, Asst. Treasurer

Ken Nobis, St. Johns 989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 201 Rodney Daniels, Whittemore 989-756-4935 Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453 Mark Halbert, Battle Creek 269-964-0511 James Reid, Jeddo 810-327-6830 District Directors 1. Hank Choate Cement City 517-529-9032 2. Tim Hood Paw Paw 269-657-5771 3. David Pyle Zeeland 616-772-1512

5. Doug Chapin Remus 231-972-0535

Toll Free 800-233-2405

Supervisor: Duane Farmer

Ken Nobis, President

4. Corby Werth Alpena 989-464-5436

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

Merchandise - Mt. Pleasant

Board of Directors

*If you are unable to reach your assigned member representative, please contact the representatives listed in your area.

6. Tony Jandernoa Fowler 989-593-2224 7. Eric Frahm Frankenmuth 989-652-3552 8. Scott Lamb Jeddo 810-327-6135

JULY 2016 | MESSENGER

TO P U S D D A L L IT A

N I K L I M E R O M K N A T R U YO

Dan Rice Dairy Producer

Randy Thimm Pioneer Sales Professional

Josh Jantzen Custom Chopper

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