Michigan Milk Messenger: March 2018

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. 100 | ISSUE 9 | MARCH 2018

COMMITTED. CONSISTENT. CONVENIENT.

A Peek Inside the MMPA Merchandise Program

mimilk.com

“WE

KEEP ADDING SERVICES, AND YOU KEEP ADDING TO YOUR OUTPUT. I DON’T THINK THAT’S A COINCIDENCE.”

Gaylen Guyer DuPont Pioneer Dairy Account Manager

Chad Erickson Pioneer Sales Professional

The Silage Zone® resource combines proven products, unmatched support and forage management solutions to help you achieve success.

See more at pioneer.com/silagestories.

PIONEER® brand products are provided subject to the terms and conditions of purchase which are part of the labeling and purchase documents. ® TM SM , , Trademarks and service marks of DuPont, Pioneer or their respective owners. © 2017 PHII. DUPPFO17035_VAR1_090117_MMM

Ken Hein Dairy Producer Vince Tichy Encirca Certified Services Agent

MARCH 2018 FEATURES

On the Cover

HIGH QUALITY MILK IMPACTS 16 | MAKING ALL STAKE HOLDERS

Understanding and Interpreting Bacteria Counts to

Merchandise Program Supervisor

Improve Milk Quality at the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.

Duane Farmer mixes teat dip at the Mt. Pleasant, Michigan warehouse. Read more about what the MMPA program offers its

Dr. Brandon Treichler, D.V.M, presented a seminar on

PEEK INSIDE THE MMPA 18 | AMERCHANDISE PROGRAM

Started in the early 1970’s, the MMPA merchandise program provides member farms with a consistent and

members in this issue on page 18.

reliable source for cleaning supplies and parts.

22 | 2018 MICHIGAN DAIRY AMBASSADORS

Fifteen Michigan dairy youth joined the Dairy

Ambassador program at the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference during a one-day leadership training to prep for a year of dairy promotion in the state.

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 1,700 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

3

Optimize Profit

Superior Health

with

SELECT SIRES' SUPERIOR HEALTH SIRES Code No. Name

CCR %Rel SCS %Rel

PL

%Rel

TPI®

7HO12126 FLORES

+8.4

81

2.81

90

+9.0

85

+2424

7HO11169 PETRONE

+7.9

98

2.60

99

+7.4

99

+2469

7HO11946 MIDNIGHT

+7.7

93

2.73

98

+8.9

89

+2641

7HO11395 MYSTIC

+7.7

85

2.72

92

+8.6

86

+2558

7HO12236 BAYONET

+5.2

84

2.96

94

+7.0

87

+2516

7HO12105 REFLECTOR +4.7

91

2.79

98

+7.1

88

+2643

7HO11915 MULTIPLY

+4.6

82

2.78

91

+7.3

85

+2514

7HO13093 DAMARIS

+4.5

86

2.90

96

+9.6

88

+2487

7HO12357 PENLEY

+3.9

73

2.33

86

+9.1

85

+2495

7HO13094 TRENTON

+2.9

82

2.85

89

+8.7

87

+2587

7HO12212 HONEYBEE

+2.7

88

2.81

96

+6.2

88

+2517

7HO11708 ROOKIE

+2.7

85

2.72

92

+6.6

86

+2573

Photos (top to bottom): Peak Louanne Byont 20009-ET (VG-85), Rock Hill Dairy LLC, Dexter, NM; Brubaker Farms Trenton 6415-Grade, Brubaker Farms, Mt. Joy, PA; Dunn-Brook Wsp Lisa Mae-ET (VG-87), Seldom Seen Genetics, Menomonie, WI. All bulls listed except PETRONE are eligible for semen export to Canada. CDCB/HA Genomic Evaluation 12-17 data. ®TPI is a registered trademark of Holstein Association USA. SS934-1217 Product of the USA.

Cows that stay out of the hospital pen and get pregnant with fewer services make more money for your bottom line. Call your NorthStar representative to add these superior health sires to your herd today!

CONTENTS 6

MMPA MATTERS

“Dairy promotion is extremely important.

Groundhog Day for the Dairy Industry

8

Using Daisy the Cow at our events gets QUALITY WATCH

the reactions needed to share our story.”

Mastitis Management: The Past, Present and Future

— EARL HORNING (PAGE 21)

10

NEWS & VIEWS

12

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

DEPARTMENTS

14

DIRECTOR AT-LARGE NOMINEES

29

MERCHANDISE

Meet the two nominees-Bruce Lewis and

30

QUALITY PREMIUMS

Carlton Evans

21

THE SEARCH FOR DAISY THE COW

24

TOP 10 OYDC SNAPSHOT: GARRETT BARTHOLOMEW

31 POLICIES 32 FREELINERS 33 CLASSIFIEDS 34

28

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

MARKET REPORT

35 STAFF

MMPA Core Values: » Quality » Integrity » Progress » Leadership » Community Managing Editor................................................ Sheila Burkhardt Editors.............................. Allison Stuby Miller, Krista Schrock Advertising Manager......................................Nancy Muszynski Circulation......................................................................................2,707 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.

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

p: 248-474-6672 f: 248-474-0924 w: 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)

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

5

MMPA MATTERS

Groundhog Day for the Dairy Industry

BY KEN NOBIS, MMPA PRESIDENT

The groundhog saw his shadow this year on February 2, so as usual this meant six more weeks of winter weather. I was doing some channel surfing on Super Bowl Sunday as I waited for the game to begin, and I came across the Bill Murray classic “Groundhog Day” as I churned through the channels. It is a movie that was entertaining when it first appeared in 1993 and remains entertaining in 2018.

The storyline centers on a weatherman who is sent to cover the Groundhog Day story for the fourth year in a row. He is frustrated to have to cover the story and makes no effort to hide his feelings. So he reluctantly covers the story but wakes up the next day to find himself repeating the day before. This continues the next day and the day after, and he comes to realize this is the rest of his life.

“We are now entering the fourth year of a depressed dairy economy, and any good news that can be found in the dairy industry is understandably overshadowed by the economics.”

I’m starting to feel that way myself. We are now entering the fourth year of a depressed dairy economy, and any good news that can be found in the dairy industry is understandably overshadowed by the economics. The end result is a pay price that doesn’t always meet the cash flow needs so that a profitable bottom line remains elusive for many dairy producers.

MMPA has focused on addressing the situation, one way being to have made investments in processing capacity. We more than doubled our internal capacity during the past eight years. We now have the capacity to process 8.4 million pounds of milk per day, and we use that capacity to its full extent on most days. This impressive increase has happened primarily through the upgrading of facilities that we already owned so that we could operate at a high level of efficiency with our plants.

However, we are not the only milk producers in our service area, and milk production continues to increase among all producer groups in our area. This has resulted in a serious shortage of ways to process and market all the milk. The reality is that MMPA alone does not bear total responsibility for expanded production that has resulted in too little processing capacity in our market area. Large amounts of milk coming through the pipeline result in lower prices for all of us, so it is an issue that affects all of us. If MMPA members were the only producers expanding production then yes, we would bear total responsibility, but that isn’t the case. MMPA’s success in adding actual processing capacity is a good start, and we are working with other groups and co-ops to find solutions.

The fact is that dairy farmers not only in our own market area but also in other parts of the U.S. and in countries around the world have become more efficient and produce more milk, which further complicates efforts to find adequate markets. Many ideas have been brought forward, and all have been (and continue to be) explored.

Despite the challenges, we will keep working within our own co-op and with others outside our co-op to develop viable solutions.

6

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

102 ANNUAL STATE DELEGATE MEETING ND

WHEN:

March 15, 2018 Registration begins at 9:30 a.m., meeting is called to order at 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Lansing

Center

333 East Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933

ON THE AGENDA: • Consideration of policy statements and resolutions • Election of one director-at-large position on the MMPA Board of Directors • Recognition of MMPA’s 30 and 50 year members • Presentation of Valued Partner award • Announcement of MMPA Quality Award recipient • Introduction of the MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators

Business will only be conducted by accredited delegates, but all members are welcome to attend.

Members not serving as delegates should RSVP to Nancy Muszynski at 248-474-8872, ext. 202.

MIMILK.COM/ANNUAL-MEETING-2018

#MMPA18

QUALITY WATCH

Mastitis Management: The Past, Present and Future

BY RACHEL BOTTA, MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE

A history of mastitis management A “Five Point Plan” approach to mastitis began in the 1960s when dairy researchers saw the need for universal agreement on mastitis control. The five points include: (1) Milk machine maintenance, (2) Teat disinfection, (3) Dry cow therapy, (4) Treating clinical cases, and (5) Culling chronic cases.

The National Mastitis Council (NMC) hosted their 57th annual meeting in Tucson, Arizona from Jan.30 Feb. 4. Producers and industry professionals gained insight and training on all aspects of dairy health from researchers, veterinarians and dairy farmers.

While the industry’s knowledge of mastitis has gotten more complex since then, it is worthwhile to remember the basics when troubleshooting on the farm. These simple ideas were the main reference point for farmers in the past, but today’s milk quality advancements demand more depth.

Beyond the basics Lack of information is a problem of the past – now we are bombarded by it! Information is so readily available that it’s hard to sort out what will truly impact your herd health.

NMC speakers focused in on these modern techniques to really hone in on milk quality.

Using records: The most valuable information is collected on your farm. Whether you

milk ten cows or 1,000, the ability to track individual cows, trends and treatments will improve your herd health over time. Take advantage of DHIA results, herd management software, or even a simple homemade notebook! Regardless of what tools you use, make certain you are actively analyzing and applying them.

Culturing: The ability to differentiate between pathogens allows more focused and effective

targeting of mastitis cases. There is no true “treat-all” for mastitis as its pathogens have varying origins and susceptibilities. Including cow and bulk tank culturing as a regular part of your herd health routine will prove beneficial to your milk quality over time.

What’s next?

As the dairy industry continues to move forward in milk quality, consumers are watching antibiotic usage closely. They want to know that farmers can prevent most infections, treat udder health issues as quickly as possible and provide proof that animals are healthy and food supply is safe.

Currently, blanket dry cow treatment represents the most consistent use of antibiotics on a U.S. conventional dairy farm. While historically, dry-treating the whole herd has been “the norm,” The NMC conference brought attention to the option of selective dry cow therapy.

Through careful selection of which cows receive antibiotic therapy at dry-off, antibiotic use can be reduced by about one-third. This practice is already in widespread effect in countries like New Zealand and the Netherlands. In order to implement this successfully, a farm must keep meticulous records and make use of SCC and culture results.

A prevailing theme of the conference was the importance of conveying the message of milk quality to customers and consumers. NMC officials emphasized that we celebrate the phenomenal progress made in mastitis management, take advantage of available resources and knowledge, and be able to listen and respond to the concerns of the consumer.

8

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

March 13

Milker Training Schools aim to help improve the marketability of MMPA members’ milk by providing milk quality and animal stockmanship knowledge, tools and training to members and their employees.

Strategies to help members achieve this goal include: • Relay proper milking techniques and milk quality procedures.

• Present the big-picture science of mastitis and milk quality.

• Give members a chance to try-on and practice proper milking techniques and procedures.

• Improve stockmanship and animal care while supporting National Dairy FARM requirements.

Milker Training School classes can be taught in Spanish upon request.

Milker Training School Values Partnership, Quality, Animal Care Consistency, Education and Affirmation

To register, contact: Marianne Gasiewski at 248-442-7597 or To register, contact: Marianne Gasiewski at 248-422-7597 gasiewski@mimilk.com.

A $10 per person registration fee willorbe gasiewski@mimilk.com.

A $10 per person registration fee will be deducted from your milk check to cover lunch and material costs. deducted from your milk check to cover lunch and material costs.

10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Eddie G’s 8484 W. Marlette Rd., Marlette, MI

March 28 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

The Shack 2263 W. 14th St., White Cloud, MI

April 12 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Clare Church of the Nazarene 10160 S Grant Ave., Clare, MI

April 24 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Whittemore Fire House 503 S. Bullock St., Whittemore, MI

NEWS & VIEWS Bovine Tuberculosis in Ottawa County Linked to Indiana Herd A trace investigation from two bovine tuberculosis positive cattle found at a processing facility led to the identification of a bovine TB positive roping cattle herd in Ottawa County, Michigan. The infected animals originated from an infected herd in Indiana, prior to that herd testing positive for bovine TB in December 2016. As a part of MDARD's response, a three-mile surveillance area has been established around the affected farm in Ottawa County. Farms within this special surveillance area will have six months to complete bovine TB testing. These farms will be identified

by MDARD and notified through individual letters.

Upcoming Events MARCH 14 Resolutions Committee Meeting, Lansing MARCH 15 102nd Annual State Delegate Meeting, Lansing APRIL 6 Young Cooperator Conference, Battle Creek APRIL 10 & 11 Indiana Milk Quality Conference, Ft. Wayne, IN APRIL 19 Dairy Communicator Meeting, East Lansing 10

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

Dairy producers recognized in NorthStar DHI Services Annual Performance Summary MMPA Member Gross Farms named Progressive Dairy Producer of the Year Over 1,380 dairy operations and 502,035 cows were evaluated in ranking herds and cows for Milk Production, Dollar Value and Somatic Cell Count (SCC) in the NorthStar Cooperative Dairy Herd Information (DHI) Services Annual Performance Summary. Dairy producers throughout Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Wisconsin topped lists in this comprehensive report which summarizes records for the 2017 testing year.

Gross Farms, an MMPA member farm in Weidman, Michigan earned the 2017 NorthStar Cooperative DHI Services Progressive Dairy Producer of the Year award which is presented to the herd with the greatest dollar value increase over the past five years. The 140-cow registered Holstein dairy increased Dollar Value by $1,131 and today has a Rolling Herd Average (RHA) of 35,194 pounds of milk (M), 1,205 pounds of fat (F) and 1,040 pounds of protein (P) on three-times-a-day (3X) milking.

Gordon Dick, MMPA member in McBain, Michigan, owns the top animal on the Holstein Lifetime Cows for Milk Production report with an 11th lactation 7HO3707 MATHIE daughter with lifetime credentials of 398,893M, 16,501F and 11,256P. Other breed leaders on this report included Brent Moyer of Caro, Michigan with the top Jersey. Landstad Dairy LCC of Bonduel, Wisconsin owns the top Ayrshire. The seventh lactation Altapronto Brown Swiss daughter from Lewis Century Stock Farms Inc. of Lagrange, Indiana topped the Brown Swiss report. Topping the Red and White report was MMPA Members Arden and Nicholas Eadie of Conklin, Michigan.

The herd with the lowest SCC average across NorthStar’s four state service area was Glide Farms LLC of Lake City, Michigan, an MMPA member farm. The 249-cow Holstein herd topped the list with a SCC average of 50,000 while producing a RHA of 27,728M, 1,015F, 788P and a Dollar Value of $4,139 on 3X milking.

NorthStar Cooperative, Inc. is a stock based cooperative, owned by dairy and beef producers in Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin. Originally formed in 1944 as an artificial insemination cooperative, NorthStar Cooperative, Inc. is now comprised of sales and service for Select Sires, Ag Products and Technologies, DHI Services, as well as Antel BioSystems, a research group dedicated to developing and implementing innovative diagnostic solutions for the animal industry. Based in Lansing, Michigan, NorthStar provides sales and service to producers, veterinarians and industry members across the United States.

2018 MYLSF Award application deadline set for May 15 Since 2000, the Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund (MYLSF) has awarded $491,000 in scholarships and educational awards to outstanding youth who have exhibited at the premier livestock events in the state of Michigan.

New in 2018, a select number of applicants may be offered an opportunity to be interviewed for an up to $5,000 scholarship prior to the Sale-Abration. The MYLSF scholarship committee will choose the top scholarship applicants in June to come back for an interview prior to the Sale-Abration.

The 2017 MYLSF $1,500 general scholarship winners were: Lydia AcMoody of Coldwater, Kristen Burkhardt of Fowlerville, Callie Halsey of Adrian, Brady Littlefield of Burr Oak, Morgan Kenney of Perry, Cassandra Perrin of Coopersville, Renee Souva of Bronson, and Abigail Walkowe of Manchester. A MYLSF $1,000 scholarship was awarded to Cameron Hayden of Cassopolis. MYLSF $500 scholarships were awarded to Lauren Bickel of North Branch, Spencer Fisher of Blissfield, Daniel Flynn of Tekonsha, Bennett Littlefield of Burr Oak, and Ally Majzel of Lennon. A statewide $1,000 scholarship was awarded to Shelby Talsma of Skandia; and $750 statewide scholarships were awarded to Ariel Cousineau of Rapid River and Kylie Pickard of Hastings.

Applications and qualification requirements for the MYLSF and the statewide scholarship can be obtained at http://www. michigan.gov/mda-mylsf. Applications must be postmarked no later than 5 p.m. on May 15, 2018. If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Haarer, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Producer Security Section Manager, at 517-284-5642 or Ernie Birchmeier, Michigan Farm Bureau’s Livestock & Dairy Specialist, at 517-679-5335.

Benefiting together.

This March, we will be sharing our success by returning $50 million in net profits to our cooperative members. Patronage is just one way GreenStone reinvests in our members, their businesses, and our communities.

To take advantage of the many benefits of membership, contact your local GreenStone branch today.

800-444-FARM

27th Farm Women's Symposium The annual Farm Women's Symposium will be held at the Double Tree Hotel in Grand Rapids, Michigan, March 7-10. The symposium is a threeday conference focusing on building friendships.

www.greenstonefcs.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT: FARMWOMENSSYMPOSIUM.COM

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

11

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

Remaking the Dairy Safety Net After months of challenging

Margin Protection Program

negotiations on Capitol Hill,

The new and improved MPP is especially important for small and medium-sized dairy farmers by making the program more responsive to market conditions and drastically reducing premiums to make it affordable for farmers to purchase higher levels of coverage. Importantly, producers will also have another chance to sign-up or change coverage levels for 2018 coverage Specifically, the changes:

President Donald Trump signed into law a budget deal that includes provisions that will reform the dairy safety net into a more effective resource for farmers facing 2018's challenging milk

AFFORDABLE BUY-UP COVERAGE

Dramatically reduces the premium costs for “Tier 1” enrollment to incentivize small and medium farm to consider higher levels of protection. Eliminates the premiums for $4.50 and $5.00 coverage and cuts other premiums by an average of 70% (see table for details)

price environment.

T

he Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 (H.R. 1892) sets

ALLOW FLEXIBILITY

Provides farmers a chance to immediately take advantage of the revised program.

USDA will re-open the election period to allow producers another chance to signup or change coverage levels for the 2018 coverage year.

federal spending levels for the next two years, but

most critical to the dairy community, it contains dairy policy changes affecting

FARMER-FRIENDLY IMPROVEMENTS

Calculates potential payments on a monthly basis instead of making farmers wait for two months to provide more relevant and timely responses to changes in milk or feed costs.

the Margin Protection Program (MPP) and dairy risk management programs within the Agriculture Department (USDA). MMPA and NMPF are working with Congress to ensure producers are aware of final details and changes as

TARGET SMALL AND MEDIUM FARMS

Adjusts the “Tier 1” threshold that corresponds with substantially lower premium costs, to the first 5 million pounds of production, an increase from the current level of 4 million pounds of production. This better aligns the program with the median U.S. dairy farm size, 223 cows, and encourages more farms to participate and secure meaningful levels of protection.

TARGET THOSE MOST IN NEED

they are implemented.

MMPA strongly supported the muchneeded MPP reforms and expanded risk management program options, which

Waives the $100 administrative fee for underserved producers (limited resource, beginning and minority farmers), bringing the program in line with other USDA programs with a similar service fee waiver, such as the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP).

were part of a larger proposal adopted by the National Milk Producers Federation Board of Directors last year.

These changes will help provide more financial resources for the federal dairy program heading into the 2018 Farm Bill, and will increase the prospects of timely and productive final legislation.

NOTE: AS MORE DETAILS BECOME AVAILABLE ON THE PROCESS FOR SIGNING UP FOR THE REVISED PROGRAM, MMPA WILL FORWARD THAT INFORMATION TO MEMBERS.

12

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

Premium Rate Reductions

MARGIN OLD: TIER 1

COVERAGE PREMIUM LEVEL COVERED

PRODUCTION HISTORY LESS THAN 4 MILLION LBS.

PRODUCTION HISTORY LESS THAN 5 MILLION LBS.

$4.00 None $4.50 $0.010 $5.00 $0.025 $5.50 $0.040 $6.00 $0.055 $6.50 $0.090 $7.00 $0.217 $7.50 $0.300 $8.00 $0.475

NEW: TIER 1 TIER 2 PREMIUM PREMIUM COVERED (REMAINS THE SAME)

None None None $0.020 None $0.040 $0.009 $0.100 $0.016 $0.155 $0.040 $0.290 $0.063 $0.830 $0.087 $1.060 $0.142 $1.360

Secretary Perdue visits Michigan, HOLDS ROUNDTABLE WITH COMMODITY LEADERS Expanding Dairy Insurance Dairy farmers have historically had limited options for managing risk through the Federal Crop Insurance Program. USDA wrongly classified milk production as “livestock” for the purposes of crop insurance, subjecting dairy insurance to an arbitrary limit on livestock insurance indemnities and stifling options for farmers.

The budget agreement removes this arbitrary cap to expand insurance options for dairy farmers and incentivize the development of innovative new dairy insurance policies. Any new policies would be subject to approval and overseen by USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA). Like all other crop insurance policies, this coverage is available without limitations on size or revenue of the operation.

SOURCE: U.S. SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, NUTRITION, AND FORESTRY

U

BY MELISSA HART

nited States Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue made a visit to Michigan last month, touting the new USDA interactive one-stop website for farmers and listening to the concerns of agricultural stakeholders in the state.

Among other engagements, Perdue and Governor Rick Snyder made a stop at FarmLogs in Ann Arbor for a round table discussion with several of Michigan’s agricultural stakeholders including those representing grain marketing, milk production, ag lending, precision ag, sugar beet production, organic producers and soybean growers.

MMPA President Ken Nobis was in attendance and communicated his concerns about the dairy industry.

Nobis thanked Perdue for the work on getting one percent flavored milk

back in the school systems and for advocating for a better trade deal with Mexico and Canada.

Nobis also discussed dairy policy and asked for any help the Secretary could offer in improving the Margin Protection Program (MPP) in the disaster bill pending in Congress.

Nobis noted, “We are very happy with what the House of Representatives has done to take the cap off the Livestock Gross Margin program and we are also interested in changes to the MPP.” Since this meeting, the U.S. Senate reached a budget deal that includes $1 billion to provide support to dairy farmers through improvements to MPP. Perdue concluded the meeting with a discussion about curtailing the permitting process as the infrastructure bill, that Congress is working on, moves forward, the expansion of rural broadband networks and renewable fuels.

Michigan Farm Bureau began the day hosting Perdue for breakfast where he unveiled the new USDA website, Farmers.gov. This website gathers together the three agencies that comprise USDA’s Farm Production and Conservation mission area: The Farm Service Agency, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the Risk Management Agency.

KEN NOBIS WAS ABLE TO MEET WITH USDA SECRETARY SONNY PERDUE TO DISCUSS DAIRY POLICY AS PERDUE MADE A RECENT TOUR AROUND THE STATE.

The Michigan Turkey Producers gave Perdue a tour of a turkey processing facility before he went to Zoetis with Michigan Governor Rick Snyder for a townhall meeting.

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

13

2018 Directorat-Large Candidates Delegates at the 102nd Annual State Delegate Meeting on March 15 will elect one at-large member serving a three-years term to the MMPA board of directors. Applicants seeking election were interviewed by the MMPA nominating committee following a review of applications. The committee nominated Carlton Evans and Bruce Lewis as candidates for MMPA delegates to elect at the upcoming annual meeting.

14

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

CARLTON EVANS

BRUCE LEWIS

Carlton Evans is the current HillsdaleLitchfield Local Secretary/Treasurer and a member of the MMPA state advisory and resolutions committees.

In the past, he served as the HillsdaleLitchfield Local president, District I president and the reorganization committee. He and his wife Carol Marz-Evans were the District OYDC representatives in 1989-1992.

Other leadership roles Evans has held include being a member of the Hillsdale County Farm Bureau board and President of the Litchfield school board for eleven years. Evans is a Michigan State University graduate holding a degree in animal science. He is a member of the Hillsdale-Litchfield Local in District 1. Carlton and Carol own a 450-cow dairy in Litchfield, Michigan and they have one son.

Bruce Lewis is the Hillsdale-Litchfield Local Vice President and serves on the advisory committee, resolutions committee and as a delegate at the Annual State Meeting. He and his wife, Jennifer, were named the 2005 Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators. Outside of MMPA, Lewis serves on the Greenstone FCS board and was the Hillsdale County Farm Bureau President for five years.

He was also awarded the Nelson B. Purdy Business & Industry award in Hillsdale County in 2016. Lewis is a member of the Hillsdale-Litchfield Local in District 1. The Lewis family operates a 690-cow dairy in Jonesville, Michigan. Bruce and Jennifer have three children.

“I think MMPA and the dairy

is important to have a common

industry as a whole are now facing

sense-minded board of directors.

some unique and interesting

I feel that I have the experience and

challenges. I would like the

willingness to serve the members of

opportunity to be a part of solving

MMPA now and into the future. I am

these challenges. I have the ability

able to discuss issues reasonably,

to look at all sides of a problem and

with an eye toward the future and

not have any preconceived notions.

want the co-op to continue for the

I will speak my mind but also listen

next generation of my family and

to others.”

yours.”

“With the current uncertainty of the dairy industry in Michigan, it

MMPA & Land O’Lakes present...

CALF CARE SCHOOLS MMPA/Land O’Lakes Calf Care Schools demonstrate to members and their employees the proper means to care and treat calves to help them grow in to happy, healthy heifers and cows. In addition to general calf care guidelines, the program will include: colostrum management and quality information, mixing and weighing demonstrations, live calf demonstrations, educational necropsy and calf care SOP writing information.

Registration: 9:00 a.m.

Program: 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

To register for Calf Care School, please contact: Marianne Gasiewski, MMPA Member Services P.O. Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376 248-474-6672, ext. 215 gasiewski@mimilk.com A $10 per person registration fee will be deducted from your milk check to cover lunch and material costs.

April 17 Gerald & Rose King’s 7600 S 600 W Topeka, IN April 18 Shiawassee County Fairgrounds 2900 E Hibbard Rd. Corunna, MI April 19 Hillman Community Center 24220 Vetrans Memorial Hwy. Hillman, MI

MAKING

HIGH QUALITY MILK IMPACTS ALL STAKE HOLDERS

BY MELISSA HART

16

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

“Milk quality means something different for every stake holder in the dairy industry,” stated Dr. Brandon Treichler, D.V.M, as he presented a seminar on Understanding and Interpreting Bacteria Counts to Improve Milk Quality to a group of dairy producers at the recent Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference held on February 8-10th in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.

“If you’re a producer, the first thing you go to with milk quality is Somatic Cell Count (SCC). If you’re a processor, bacteria counts are critical for lots of different reasons like product safety, product quality and yield.” Treichler continued, “The key party of the dairy stake holder chain that we often forget about is the consumer. To the consumer, milk quality is something completely different and nebulous than what we think about. It’s things like how is the cow treated? When buying this product, how does it make me feel? Is it healthy for my family? What kind of package is it in?”

While the milk quality means different things to different stake holders, ultimately bacteria in the milk affects several factors when the milk leaves the farm. Food safety, shelf life, offflavors, product yield, variations in products and the ability to export the product are all areas that are affected by milk quality.

There are three main sources of bacteria in milk: milk residues in the milking system, mastitis pathogens from the cow herself and from the environment. While the standard plate count (SPC) is the regulatory test for estimating bacterial populations in milk it does not indicate the types of bacteria present, the source of contamination nor does it give a complete count of all types of bacteria.

Lab Pasteurized Count (LPC) is a more specific test that is used for troubleshooting when bacteria counts rise. LPC’s select for a specific type of bacteria that live and thrive in high temperatures which are called the thermoduric bacteria. “If you have an

elevated LPC, it indicates a specific failure in the system. Typically, it’s a failure to wash in the CIP system and likely a system build up,” Treichler commented.

“LPC’s are crucial because if these bacteria can survive high temperatures, they can also survive the drying and powdering process. So, when we make powder it actually concentrates the number of LPC bacteria in the milk which is graded by spore count and that affects the export products.”

Treichler continued, “If we want to have high quality export product lines then we have to have low spore counts.”

Bacteria that thrive in low temperatures, called psychotrophs, are also problematic to milk quality.

The preliminary incubation count (PIC) selects for psychotrophs and this usually indicates a problem with cleaning, slow or inadequate cooling or worn out rubber components in the milking system. It can also come from water contaminating the milk through leaky plate cooler gaskets, water born bacteria and flushing lines with water at the end of a milking shift.

Poor udder preparation or a bacterial growth within the milking system can make coliform counts rise. This is bacteria that originates in manure and enters the milk through poor milking hygiene. Keeping the milking system clean is crucial because under optimum conditions bacteria can double every fifteen minutes.

While dairymen are well aware of the need to keep their milking equipment clean, specific elements of the cleaning process were highlighted by Treichler.

There are three components of sanitation: 1. Thermal – the optimal temperature of the water.

2. Chemical – having the correct cleaning products.

3. Mechanical – making sure that the cleaning solutions are thoroughly pushed through the system having adequate contact time with all surfaces.

Maintenance of the system is critical, Treichler commented, “When you have leaks in the system this means that if something can leak out, bacteria and contamination can also likely leak in.”

Poor maintenance alters the surface to be cleaned. Rough, cracked or porous surfaces are hard to make sanitary.

Improper maintenance alters the cooling efficiency, pumping capacity and air admission in the system.

Treichler concluded that every dairy can make high quality milk and in the future, it’s not going to be an option, dairy producers are going to have to produce a high-quality product.

“It’s a complex web. Your milk might go to the same plant every day but the components of that milk, that they spin off, like the whey protein concentrate and all those other pieces, go fifty different directions and quality impacts all of those.”

Treichler concluded, “Don’t tolerate high bacteria counts because you don’t need to, I promise you can make high quality milk and hopefully you can go home and pick up a few more dollars in your milk check.”

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

17

COMMITTED. CONSISTENT. CONVENIENT.

A Peek Inside the MMPA Merchandise Program

BY KRISTA SCHROCK

Dust kicks up on the dirt road as the milk truck rolls up to a dairy farm, ready to pick up raw milk for delivery to a local processing plant. But as the hauler meticulously hooks up his hose to the bulk tank and gathers milk samples, there’s often a few more things he must unload: farm supplies.

18

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

Sometimes it’s a refill on I-Deal Barrier teat dip, others it’s a san spray rubber hose and a new bulk tank brush.

Originating at the MMPA merchandise warehouse, members have access to a wide variety of farm supply products sold at a reduced cost.

Midst rows of industrial shelving on concrete floor in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, a team of four merchandise staff manage members orders, prep deliveries, mix teat dip and track the vast inventory. Orders disperse from the warehouse destined for MMPA farms

by hauler delivery, direct shipping or member pick-up.

“It is a huge benefit for us to order supplies through our hauler. We don’t have to wait for a route delivery truck service to stop on a designated day and hope that they have what we need on the trailer. The merchandise program warehouse has pretty much everything we need here on our dairy,” remarked Casey Sparks of Hesperia, Michigan.

The merchandise program supplies many of the needs of MMPA’s farms, big and small, in Michigan, Indiana,

Ohio and Wisconsin. Started in the

products for the job whether it is tank

Convenient Delivery

early 1970’s, the merchandise program

washer parts, towels for in the parlor

was added to help member farms

After moving the warehouse from St.

or CIP detergent. One of my favorite

have a consistent and reliable source

parts of my job is when I am able to

Louis, Michigan to its current location

for cleaning supplies and parts. It has

solve a problem for a farm while saving

since grown to add many product lines

money,” said Pierson, merchandise

and options for members to order.

coordinator and energy auditor.

Support from vendors is available for some products as well. Commitment

Consistent Quality

along the US-127 corridor in 2014, the merchandise team added a teat dip mixing system and increased inventory with the additional space. The new location, convenient for dispatching product deliveries, proved to be a more

to service, consistent quality,

“We work with our vendors to

convenient delivery and comparable

make sure we supply our farms with

prices can all describe the MMPA

high quality, reliable products. Our

merchandise program.

team regularly assesses our product

“Every time I call to make my order

lineup to make sure we carry a wide

prior to the delivery date, I always find

Commitment to Service

variety to service our members,”

The merchandise program is a service

shared Merchandise Supervisor

for any MMPA member to provide

Farmer. “Our goal is to provide the

them with products they may need

tools our farms need to produce

the merchandise people to be very helpful and knowledgeable about what they have. The new catalog has been a big help in ordering too,” mentioned

to help a farm do what they do best:

top quality milk.”

provide a clean, safe food while caring

In addition to products stocked at

for their animals.

the warehouse, members can take

Punctuality is a priority for warehouse

advantage of vendor-paired services.

staff members to insure farms get

Land O’Lakes provides several milk

what they need as soon as possible.

Orders for parts not in the newly revised merchandise catalog may be ordered through vendors if not kept in stock. Staff work hard to provide great customer service to members and haulers helping them do their jobs.

schools annually to members to share information and tips on calf rearing.

Members also have access to EcoLab representatives to set up cleaning programs, trouble-shoot high count

supervisors throughout the long-

wash-ups for CIP (clean in place)

standing program, it shows the

systems. These vendor services can be

commitment to providing quality

facilitated with a simple phone call to

and consistent service. Current team

the staff at the warehouse.

an average of 24 years of experience working with MMPA in a variety of positions from field representative to sample auditor among others.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 20)

up with MMPA to provide calf care

problems and preventative cleaning

Joe Mishler and Duane Farmer have

growth for the program in the future.

replacer options for members, teams

With only four merchandise

members Katie Pierson, Jake Riley,

efficient facility and offers room for

The program is designed to be selfsustaining in that at the end of the year, profits are returned as patronage to participating farms. “Prices can fluctuate a little throughout the year, but we work hard to receive the

“I enjoy working with members and

best rates from vendors so farms can

their haulers to meet a farm’s needs. It

receive products at reasonable prices,”

is important to us to provide the right

added Farmer.

JAKE RILEY PREPS A MERCHANDISE ORDER TO BE SHIPPED TO A MEMBER. PAGE 18: THE DEDICATED TEAM BEHIND THE MMPA MERCHANDISE PROGRAM (LEFT TO RIGHT) DUANE FARMER, JOE MISHLER, KATIE PIERSON AND JAKE RILEY.

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

19

A PEEK INSIDE THE MMPA MERCHANDISE PROGRAM – continued from page 19 Indiana farmer Nelson Frye. “My order always shows up on time and if I am low on something or I forgot to order something, they find a way to get it to me.”

The warehouse team also recently released a new and improved merchandise catalog for members.

It provides a better look at what is available in stock in Mt. Pleasant with pictures and stock numbers for easier ordering. Farms can order from the catalog online, by fax, through their hauler or by calling the warehouse.

MERCHANDISE SUPERVISOR DUANE FARMER MIXES IODINE TEAT DIP CONCENTRATE IN THE MT. PLEASANT WAREHOUSE FOR REPACKAGING.

In addition to many haulers keeping merchandise inventory for easy delivery, farms may sign up for the direct delivery service. Deliveries can be scheduled for a few times a year up to every four weeks.

From the time the MMPA merchandise program takes an order until every last item makes its way to a member farm, the dedicated team behind the convenient program prides itself on consistent quality with a commitment to service.

MMPA Advisory Committee

20

DISTRICT 1

DISTRICT 4

DISTRICT 7

Brad Hart, Clayton..................................517-445-2649

Dave Folkersma, Rudyard....................906-630-1957

Scott Kleinhardt, Clare..........................989-386-8037

Daniel Minnis, Dansville.......................517-521-3529

Russ Tolan, Ossineke..............................989-471-2993

Philip Gross, Weidman..........................989-289-0670

Art Riske, Hanover..................................517-524-6015

Ron Lucas, Posen....................................989-379-4694

Jason Elenbaum, Mayville...................989-274-1974

Bruce Lewis, Jonesville ........................517-869-2877

Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................231-588-6084

John Bennett, Prescott.........................989-345-4264

Jeff Horning, Manchester....................734-428-8610

Jeremy Werth, Alpena...........................989-464-4022

James Weber, Vassar..............................989-297-1850

DISTRICT 2

DISTRICT 5

DISTRICT 8

Danny Ransler, Gobles..........................269-998-3802

Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................989-506-5287

Mike Noll, Croswell.................................810-404-4071

Dan Ritter, Potterville............................517-645-7318

Bruce Benthem, McBain.......................231-825-8182

Mike Bender, Croswell..........................810-404-2140

Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN.......574-825-5198

Amy Martin, Leroy..................................231-388-0496

Nick Leipprandt, Pigeon......................517-897-4155

Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN.........574-825-2454

Mike Rasmussen, Edmore...................989-304-0233

Darwin Sneller, Sebewaing.................989-977-3718

Mark Crandall, Battle Creek.................269-660-2229

Robert Lee, Marion................................231-743-6794

Bill Blumerich, Berlin.............................810-706-2955

DISTRICT 3

DISTRICT 6

Bill Stakenas, Free Soil...........................231-425-6913

Aaron Gasper, Lowell............................616-897-2747

Burke Larsen, Scottville........................231-425-8988

Steve Thelen, Fowler.............................989-682-9064

Gary Nelsen, Grant.................................231-834-7610

Brad Ritter, Byron....................................586-405-4749

Tim Butler, Sand Lake............................269-330-5538

David Reed, Owosso..............................989-723-2023

Bill Gruppen, Zeeland...........................616-875-8162

Jamie Meyer, Ionia..................................989-640-3372

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

The Search for

Daisy the Cow

BY KRISTA SCHROCK

She boldly welcomes visitors to the Great Dairy Adventure, she makes an appearance at local county fairs all around Michigan and she stops by the Michigan State Fair to call attention to dairy. She’s Daisy the Cow, a ten-foot-high fiberglass Holstein who travels the Great Lakes region to help MMPA member farms promote dairy.

A

ccording to volunteers picking up Daisy for her appearances, people can't help but notice her traveling from event to event.

While transporting her, they get quite a variety of reactions.

“People do funny things when they see her going down the road. Sometimes they wave or take pictures and sometimes they just stare in amazement of a giant cow,” shared Earl Horning, an MMPA member from Manchester,

Michigan. “Kids take pictures with her at the fair and just have fun.”

“She is great to get people’s attention.

After you have their attention, you can talk about dairy farming. Daisy is a good promotion tool for events," added MMPA Member Richard Thomas of Middlebury, Indiana.

Daisy has been enhancing members’ dairy promotion efforts since the early 1990s. In April of 1992,

MMPA purchased the large model cow from the Frankenmuth Cheese Manufacturing Company. MMPA members helped name the cow by submitting ideas to the MMPA board of directors. After sorting through the many suggestions, the board christened her, “Daisy.”

“Dairy promotion is extremely important. Using Daisy at our events gets the reactions needed to share our story,” reiterated Horning.

This summer, we would like your help in tracking Daisy on her travels.

Take your picture with her at events and fairs, tell us where you see her traveling between stops and share your stories from your events on social media. Make sure you tag your posts with #MMPADaisy. At the end of the summer we will share highlights from her journey.

DAISY RESIDES AT MMPA’S OVID PLANT WHEN HOME FROM HER TRAVELS. MMPA MEMBERS MAY SIGN UP TO USE HER AT THEIR EVENTS ON A FIRST COME FIRST SERVE BASIS BY CONTACTING NANCY MUSZYNSKI AT MUSZYNSKI@MIMILK.COM OR 248-474-6672, EXT. 202.

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

21

A FRESH CROP OF

MICHIGAN DAIRY AMBASSADORS LOOKS AHEAD TO A YEAR OF DAIRY PROMOTION WITH A REVITALIZED PROGRAM

F

ifteen Michigan youth were named Michigan Dairy Ambassadors after gathering at the 2018 Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference for leadership training, commencing a year of dairy promotion and outreach in Michigan. The program welcomes students in high school and college to hone in on their skills and learn how to communicate about their passion in dairy.

“The Michigan Dairy Ambassador program gives youth with a special interest in dairy the opportunity to connect with consumers and share their ‘dairy story,’” said Jessica Welch, a member of the Dairy Ambassador planning team and MMPA member relations coordinator. “Our goal is to

MICHIGAN DAIRY AMBASSADORS (BACK ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT) JESSIE NASH, ADDY BATTEL, HAILEY SHARRARD, LINDSEY SHARRARD, MIRIAM COOK, JONAH HASKINS, JORDAN PARRISH, ABBY VANDYK, DREW NEYER. (FRONT ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT) MIRIAH DERSHEM, LETA LARSEN, RILEY SMITH, LINDSAY LARSEN.

22

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

equip each Michigan Dairy Ambassador with the communication skills and tools to represent the dairy community and industry in a positive way.”

The Dairy Ambassadors began their year with a day-long leadership training on Feb. 9 in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.

Throughout the day, ambassadors took part in dairy promotion brainstorming, sat in on Dr. David Kohl’s presentation titled, “Positioning for Success in the Economic Reset.” They wrapped up the afternoon with training to harness their “Youth Voice” with Sara Keinath from MSU Extension.

Led by Welch and Jolene Griffin, the Director of Industry Relations at the United Dairy Industry of Michigan, the ambassadors were guided through engagement activities and challenged to try new things such as starting conversations with new people. Jessie Nash, 2017 Junior Dairy Ambassador Representative, and Lindsay Larsen, 2017 Senior Dairy Ambassador were also at the leadership training to embrace the next class of dairy ambassadors.

Addy Battel, Junior Dairy Ambassador from Cass City, has participated in the program for the last two years and recommends it to fellow youth interested in dairy and agriculture. “The Dairy Ambassador program has helped me to develop a variety of skills that will help me excel in a dairy related career including communication and networking with peer and potential colleagues,” she says.

Ambassadors will take part in further trainings and represent the dairy industry at promotional and outreach events throughout the year. Next up for the ambassadors is a communications training at UDIM in April and representation at industry events throughout the year, including Dairy Day at the Capitol, Michigan Livestock Expo Sale‐abration, Michigan 4‐H Dairy Days Awards Banquet, Breakfast

on the Farm and the MMPA Leaders’ Conference.

Battel represented the industry at the 2017 Dairy Day at the Capitol, an event where dairy companies and cooperatives gather in Lansing on the lawn of the state capitol to promote the interests of dairy to legislators and consumers. “My favorite event that I participated in as a Dairy Ambassador was the Dairy Day at the Capitol. This event gave me a new perspective on key issues are from a consumer perspective.

I just really enjoy talking to people about dairy!” she explained.

The newly designed, participationbased program will offer the ambassadors an opportunity to earn an interview after accumulating points. Their application, resume, participation, and interview will determine the junior and senior scholarship winners for 2018.

Recipients will be announced at the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference’s Michigan Dairy Industry Recognition Night February 2019. The Michigan Dairy Ambassador program is administered by the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference.

Looking onward to the rest of the year, the newly minted Dairy Ambassadors are prepped for the activities and promotion opportunities ahead.

2018 Michigan Dairy Ambassadors JUNIOR AMBASSADORS Addy Battel of Cass City McKenzie Bradley of Blanchard Miriam Cook of Pewamo Jonah Haskins of Marlette Drew Neyer of Shepard Connor Nugent of Clarksville Jessica Parrish of Caledonia Jordan Parrish of Caledonia Abby VanDyk of Kalamazoo

SENIOR AMBASSADORS Miriah Dershem of St. Johns Hailey Sharrard of Peck Leta Larsen of Scottville Lindsey Sharrard of Peck Riley Smith of St. Louis

TOP: DREW NEYER AND LINDSEY SHARRARD PRACTICE LISTENING SKILLS DURING THE “YOUTH VOICE” TRAINING. BOTTOM: ADDY BATTEL REFLECTS ON WHAT SHE LEARNED FROM THE DAY-LONG LEADERSHIP TRAINING ON FEB. 9.

“This is a year-long program, starting at the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference, is impacting the next generation dairy farmers and industry leaders. In the meantime, Michigan Dairy Ambassadors are connecting with and educating consumers. It’s very exciting and I’m honored to be a part of it,” Welch explained.

Lindsay Sharrard, a first year Dairy Ambassador from Peck, said the training during the GLRDC helped her understand multiple perspectives and build confidence in her knowledge of the industry.

Going into the rest of the year, Sharrad hopes take advantage of the upcoming opportunities. “This program will give me the opportunity to connect with people from all areas of the industry and outside of the industry, which could lead to future employment opportunities or avenues to educate.”

From one-on-one conversations to large events and blog posts, the Dairy Ambassador program prepares high school and university students for how to make a difference. “I learned the littlest things can make a big impact,” Sharrard concluded.

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

23

OYDC SNAPSHOT

TOP 10

OYDC 2017 Garrett Bartholomew ABOUT ME… Cows: 100 milking, 50 dry

Land: 500 acres farmed including corn, soybeans, wheat, pasture and hay

Milking facility: milking two times a day in a double 6 herringbone

Local: Kalamazoo, District 2

24

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

Along with his parents, Garrett established the dairy portion of the farm in 2014. The fourth-generation farmer likes to work with the nutrition and herd health part of the operation but doesn’t mind pitching in wherever help is needed. The best part of farming for Garrett is being able to work outside and make his own decisions. “There is always something different to do every day,” he says. “I like the freedom to make choices on how I spend my day.”

Management practices implemented on their farm include intensive rotation grazing, seasonal calving and environmentally sustainable conservation-based techniques. In the future, Garrett hopes to expand their land acreage so they are able to produce all their own feed and upgrade the parlor. To stay positive through the tough times, Garrett focuses on doing his best and understanding that even though there are ups and downs in prices, it will even out in the end.

FIVE REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND THIS YEAR’S CONFERENCE YOUNG COOPERATORS CONFERENCE

BY NATE ELZINGA, 2017 OYDC

1 2

DAIRY MYTH BUSTERS

A visit to Cereal City, USA.

FRIDAY, APRIL 6, 2018

Thinking about succession or in the middle of it?

Andy Junkin will be there discuss transition planning. No matter where you stand with your farm, discussing transition planning for its future is a key to a successful operation

3

MMPA Dairy Myth Busters!

Enjoy a dairy version of Myth Busters put on by our Co-op, and learn about the Peel Back the Label campaign to separate fact from fear-based marketing.

4

Networking with your peers!

Enjoy a night out with like minds taking a break and discussing the future of our industry.

5

Laugh the night away!

JOIN US IN BATTLE CREEK!

What better place could you talk about milk?

Comedian Jim Carmody will provide entertainment and comic relief for the day.

REGISTER ONLINE! Visit www.mimilk.com/events then click on

McCAMLY PLAZA HOTEL

“Young Cooperator Conference” and follow the prompts.

50 CAPITAL AVENUE SOUTHWEST

2018 YC Planning Committee

BATTLE CREEK, MI 49017

Nate and Jenny Elzinga, 2017 OYDC Jarris and Rebekah Rubingh, 2017 OYDC Runners-Up

Call to make reservations:

Darrin and Barbara Siemen, 2016 OYDC

(888) 622-2659

Dave and Gretchen Tolan, 2016 OYDC Runners-Up

Mention MMPA to receive a reduced $114 rate

For more information: Contact any committee member or

Hotel Reservation Deadline:

Jessica Welch at 800-572-5824, ext. 303

March 20, 2018

or email jwelch@mimilk.com

NETWORK

»

LEARN

»

CONNECT

»

GROW

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

25

It’s the Law — No One Is Exempt!

THE BEEF CHECKOFF

Beef Checkoff — It’s the Law

Have You Sold Cattle on the Farm?

If so, be sure you paid the $1.00 checkoff

Did you know?

• Every time you sell a bovine animal, regardless of age, sex, breed, purpose or number, a dollar per head is due.

• The dollar is to be collected by the buyer from the seller, although both parties are responsible for remittance.

• The checkoff is designed so that everyone pays their fair share.

How are your checkoff dollars being used?

• • • • •

Beef and veal promotions and digital advertising.

Food safety, health and nutritional research.

Product technology and development.

Educating consumers and influencers about beef ’s quality, safety and nutritional value.

Protecting beef's image and engaging advocates to build consumer trust. .

How do you pay?

Complete a remittance form and mail it along with your check to the Michigan Beef Industry Commission. Additional remittance forms are available through the Michigan Beef Industry Commission. For more information, contact: Michigan Beef Industry Commission, 2145 University Park Drive, Suite 300, Okemos, MI 48864, fax: 517-347-0919.

Who pays?

When cattle are sold or imported, the buyer of the cattle must withhold a dollar per head, or equivalent, from the seller’s purchase price. Failure to do so is a violation of the law and may be subject to a $5,500 penalty. It’s the law — no one is exempt!

Beef Promotion and Research Program Private Treaty Sales Checkoff Investment Form

Both the seller and the buyer have the responsibility to have the $1-per-head assessment collected and remitted to the qualified state beef council. This form is designed for the seller to use in private treaty sales.

Date Seller’s Name Buyer’s Name Address Address City/State/Zip City/State/Zip Seller’s Signature Buyer’s Signature Total Number of Cattle Sold X $1 per head = $ Date of Sale State of Origin Person remitting assessment Seller Buyer Send Form & Remittance to: Michigan Beef Industry Commission 2145 University Park Drive, Suite 300, Okemos, MI 48864 According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 0581-0093. The time required to complete this information is estimated to average 1.8 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the datat needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call 202-720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

MI Checkoff Form ad.indd 1

2/18/2014 1:52:37 PM

MAKING SURE WE’RE WELCOME AT EVERY TABLE Research is changing the way consumers look at beef by showing them just how nutritious this total protein package can be.

See all the other ways your investment is opening new doors at mybeefcheckoff.com/open

Michigan Beef Industry Commission

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

United Dairy Industry of Michigan Presents Acres to Athletes

In January, the United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) debuted Acres to Athletes — a short “day in the life” video featuring two Michigan natives and Michigan State University (MSU) students. In the video, national figurer skater and Milk Means More athlete ambassador Hannah Miller from Williamston spends a day with dairy farmer Maddy Meyer from Ionia.

(L) HANNAH MILLER, FIGURE SKATER, AND (R) MADDY MEYER, DAIRY FARMER.

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MESSENGER ||MARCH MESSENGER MARCH2018 2018

H

annah learns how to care for calves, milk a cow and the precision that goes into creating a balanced diet for dairy cows. Following their time on the farm, Maddy and Hannah head to the ice rink, where Maddy catches a glimpse of what it takes to be a figure skater.

At the end of the day, Maddy and Hannah recognize that what they each do, figure skating and dairy farming, is not just a career, but a passion that has been passed down through their respective families for generations.

To introduce the video, Maddy did an Instagram takeover of the Milk Means

More Instagram account (https://www. instagram.com/milkmeansmore/) on January 25. During the takeover, she shared behind-the-scenes photos and videos from the day Acres to Athletes was filmed. The Instagram takeover garnered over 4,000 impressions.

A short introduction clip of “Acres to Athletes” was shared on the Milk Means More Facebook account (https:// www.facebook.com/MilkMeansMore), reaching over 23,000 people, was viewed over 9,200 times and shared 99 times.

TO VIEW THE ENTIRE VIDEO, VISIT: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/ WATCH?V=_CDPBTNBUEQ&T=5S

MERCHANDISE

Cow Cufflink II If you are looking to provide stability to your cows after a difficult calving or due to milk fever, the Cow Cufflink II from Ok Corral Enterprises may be the answer.

Cow Cufflink II fastens to the cows ankle with a positive lock buckle system, not Velcro. This reduces the chance of hobble failure to a bare minimum. They are made using 6000lb tensile strength nylon webbing with only stainless steel components yet only weigh 10 ounces. They easily adjust at cow side with a slip buckle. Cow Cufflinks adjust from 12” for anti-kicking use to 21” for therapeutic purposes. Some farms use this product on their first calf heifers

Chemical, Sanitizer and Teat Dip Contact Information These are service personnel only.

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB 24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026

as an anti-kicking device to protect their milkers, while others use it as extra insurance on cows that need the extra stability it provides. The merchandise warehouse stocks Cow Cufflink II in both red and blue.

Cow Cufflink II features: • User friendly and humane to the cow • Holds up well under acidic conditions • Easy cow-side adjustability from 12-21 inches • Prevents pawing when attached to front legs • Long lasting, made with tough components • Machine washable for easy clean-up • Made in U.S.A.

For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392 or one of the following 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

Stock #7042

Cow Cufflink II: Red color $23.13 each

Stock #7041

Cow Cufflink II: Blue color $23.13 each

Jason Wolfe 1890 Canter Dr. Riner, VA 24149 540-553-5755

1 Place order through your milk hauler 2 Call in your order:

THREE WAYS TO ORDER YOUR MMPA MERCHANDISE

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

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

29 29

MERCHANDISE PREMIUMS

MMPA Quality Premium Program 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: 50,000 or below.............................................................................. +55¢/cwt.

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

76,000-100,000.............................................................................. +45¢/cwt.

101,000-125,000....................................................................................+40¢/cwt.

126,000-150,000............................................................................. +35¢/cwt.

151,000-175,000.................................................................................... +30¢/cwt.

176,000-200,000............................................................................ +25¢/cwt.

201,000-225,000.................................................................................. +20¢/cwt.

226,000-250,000............................................................................ +15¢/cwt.

251,000-300,000.................................................................................+00¢/cwt.

301,000-400,000.......................................................................... - 30¢/cwt.

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

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

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

Cow Tests: $1 Cow samples may 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: Raw bacteria count and components.

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

Additional Tests Available: All costs are listed per individual sample.

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

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 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.

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 EU SCC Requirement All MMPA member milk must meet the requirements of European Union certification for SCC which is an average of 400,000 or less calculated by a rolling geometric mean.

• 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. Lab form provided below for your convenience.

NORTHSTAR MI LABORATORIES Loc/Hlr/Producer #________________________________ Sample Date Member name_______________________________________ Sample ID BLV ELISA _________ Johne’s ELISA _________ Johne’s PCR _________ Pregnancy _________ Refer to fee schedule above for current pricing. The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer.

To avoid potential service charges, this card MUST be filled out completely when sending samples to be tested by NorthStar Labs.

30

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

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 may 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 may 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

REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT

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…

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

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.

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

31

FREELINERS TO SUBMIT ADS VISIT WWW.MIMILK.COM/MICHIGAN-MILK-MESSENGER/ADVERTISE/FREELINER-AND-CLASSIFIED-ADS

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.

Big Holstein AI Springing heifers. $1,600 each. Your choice.

Call 989-330-6416.

Milking Equipment Surge Double 5 Auto Flow Parlor, 50 plate pre-cooler, crowd gate, Kuhn merger, like new, 3970 John Deere chopper with 7 ft. hay head, 936 versatile 4 wheel drive tractor.

Call 616-218-9350.

16 glass 65lb weigh jars and mounting hardware with extra parts.

12 Delaval HiFlow Sensors and SST Takeoff Pads. Jars $100 per unit and sensors $100 and pads $450 per set.

Call 989-306-1336.

1000 gal Mueller Bulk Tank and Washing System, Mueller AccuTherm Plate Heat Exchanger, SprayMaster 3 Iodine Pump, Boumatic Air Star Vacuum Pump. All in good working condition.

Call 616-893-8756.

Equipment Versatile Tractor 936, 310 hp., 5500 hours, bareback, good runner, $2,150.

Tank spreader, 5,300 gal. new tank & pump 3 years ago, used very little, $20,500, Kuhn hay merger, MM300, like new, $11,000. John Deere 3970 chopper with 7 ft. hay head, very good, always housed, $4,000. Surge auto flow double five parlor, $5,000. 50 plate coolers, $1,100. Crowd gate, $750.

(2) hay saver round bale feeders, $600 each. Country Corners Farms 616-2189350 or 616-218-7125 Holland, Mich.

12 row Case is 955 planter vertical fold new Holland 570 with 72 thrower new knitters and belts 8-30 in. Row corn head off 2188 new row kits in. 2 Orth man 8 row folding singer sweep big disk shields low Ayers model 610-530 all field ready.

Call 989-977-4676.

6710 Penta mixer. Tanco bale wrapper "slightly used". Bale squeezer for skid steer and rolls of wrap available. Call 810-516-6867.

New Holland 195 spreader, hydraulic end gate, single heavy apron chain, big float tires, rope pull control, bought new, good condition, $10,500. Call 810-338-5265.

Misc.

2017 Corn Silage, bunker, packed and covered. Sample available Ionia County. 616-893-8756.

4 x 5 Round Hay Bales. Dry cow hay. $25 bale. 989-464-7364.

Wanted 800 gal. Mueller bulk tank.

432-1658.

616-

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.

LEGENDAIRY. No bull.

Co-Products Menu

Soybean meal, canola meal, hominy, oat hulls, wheat midds, citrus pulp, malt sprouts, beet pulp, soybean hulls, cereal feed, cottonseed, distillers, gluten feed, wet feeds and more!

Non-GMO

products available

Contact merchandisers at ZFS, Inc: MI/IN/OH: 866.888.7082 WI: 800-523-6760 www.zfsinc.com/divisions/ingredients

32

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

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

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

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

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

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

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 800 Novi, MI 48376-8002

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

OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can

DRY HAY & STRAW (large & small

fix your scabbled floors. Diamond

bales) & BARLEY FOR FEED.

sawed grooves, no hammering

723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

989-

or cracking of concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving

ALPHALFA HAYLAGE (excellent &

Inc., Portland. 517-647-7381.

fair grades) & CORN SILAGE.

Call

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

DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: NO water needed. Wider,

NEW KATOLIGHT PTO GENERATOR,

rougher grooves for better

60 KW, keep everyone warm and

traction. We also offer texturing

producing if there is a power

for your previously grooved

outage. Call Brent at 248-770-5122.

floors. Three operators will travel Michigan and other states. No

HOOF TRIMMING - 20 YEARS OF

interest payment terms. Est. 1987.

EXPERIENCE. Also doing fly control

Call 1-800-365-3361.

and cement grooving. Gibson Hoof Care (Tom) 989-239-6843.

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

CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-STATE SCABBLING, home of

FOR SALE: SPRINGING HEIFERS out

the 2” wide groove. Best traction,

of an AI bred herd. Aron Whitaker,

lowest prices. (800) 554-2288.

Elsie, MI. 989-666-6565.

www.tristatescabbling.com.

OPEN POLLINATED CORN SEED.

A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS

Early varieties ***Green Haven

UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/

Open Pollinated Seed Group 607-

texturing provides high quality

566-9253. www.openpollinated.

traction in new & old concrete, fast

com.

service. Call for your below pricing 989-635-1494. BLUE RIBBON HOOF TRIMMING, LLC.

MICHIGAN CERTIFIED OAT SEED. Spring Barley Seed and Medium Red June Clover Seed. Roundup

FOR SALE: NEW & USED MILK

Ready II, Liberty Link and MCIA

TANKS. We stock all sizes, makes,

2323 Soybean Seed. 989-723-1886

models. Special prices to co-op

or 989-277-1414.

members, corporate & private farms.

Contact us anytime day or night.

Spring special 2000 gal. Muellers for $13,900 & up. 2700 & 4000 gal.

Muellers call for quote. 800-558-0112.

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS OVER 100 SERVICE AGE BULLS FOR YOUR SELECTION!

PTO and Automatic Start Generators

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

1-800-248-8070 M-40 South Hamilton, MI 49419

GREEN MEADOW FARMS

www.hamiltondist.com

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

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

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

33

MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary | FOR MILK MARKETED IN JANUARY 2018 AMS Survey Prices (monthly average, per pound)

Cheese 1.5175 / LB

Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33 # This Month # Year Ago % Change

Total Class 1 Sales

564,850,386

559,011,080

+1.04

Total Class 2 Sales

319,543,791

358,900,459

-10.97

Total Class 3 Sales

558,693,249

522,295,142

+6.97

Total Class 4 Sales

260,133,130

301,918,847

-13.84

1,703,220,556

1,742,125,528

-2.23

33.2%

32.1%

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers...............................................................................4,721 Avg. Daily Production per farm....................................................11,638 Avg. Protein Test...........................................................................3.97%

Butter 2.1972 / LB

Avg. Butterfat Test.........................................................................3.22% Avg. Oth Solids Test......................................................................5.76% Avg. SCC - MMPA......................................................................169,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb.......................................................................... $1.6612

Milk Powders

Other Solids Price /lb................................................................. $0.0787

NonfatDry Milk

Class III Price @ 3.5%.................................................................... $14.00

0.6966 / LB

Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt..................................................... $0.64

Dry Whey

Uniform Price @ 3.5%................................................................... $14.64

0.2755 / LB

SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000..................................................... $0.00076

National Trends* (production in millions of pounds)

*For 23 States 34

Butterfat Price /lb....................................................................... $2.4531

MESSENGER | MARCH 2018

California Wisconsin New York Idaho Pennsylvania Michigan Texas Minnesota New Mexico Washington Ohio Indiana Total U.S. U.S Y-T-D

2018

2017

% Change

3,487 2,544 1,219 1,222 940 942 1,053 837 713 550 475 364 17,293 17,293

3,413 2,534 1,261 1,197 927 931 995 830 679 539 469 359 16,993 16,993

+2.2 +0.4 -3.3 +2.1 +1.4 +1.2 +5.8 +0.8 +5.0 +2.0 +1.3 +1.4 +1.8 +1.8

MMPA STAFF MERCHANDISE

MMPA Field Staff

Novi Headquarters

Manager of Field Services Ben Chapin, Blanchard......................................989-289-0731

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

Northwest Area Supervisor Sarah Michalek, Dewitt.....................................248-305-0537 Animal Care Coordinator Deb Gingrich, Leroy...........................................248-520-3580 Frank Brazeau, Oconto, WI................................906-250-0337 Lyndsay Earl, Ludington.....................................231-519-2455 Elyse Martin, Charlotte......................................810-701-6460 Bridget Moore, Perrinton...................................231-414-4539 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard.................................. 248-756-2062

Northeast Area Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Christy Dinsmoore, Vassar.................................248-513-7920 Animal Care Coordinator Lindsay Green, East Lansing...............................989-488-8159

General Manager Joe Diglio................................................................ ext. 202 Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys......................................................... ext. 240

Board of Directors

Hedging and Business Development Aaron Beak............................................................. ext. 256

Officers

Controller Shelly Bonnici.......................................................... ext. 249

Mark Halbert, Vice President

Member and Government Relations Sheila Burkhardt..................................................... ext. 208 Management Information Systems Andrew Caldwell.....................................................ext. 304

Ken Nobis, President

Eric Frahm, Treasurer Joe Diglio, GM / Secretary Josep Barenys, Asst. Treasurer Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

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

Directors-At-Large

Ashley Herriman, Herron...................................269-245-6632 Laura Lubeski, Bad Axe......................................248-826-6294 Emily Peacock, Imlay City...................................248-826-7243

Sales James Feeney.......................................................... ext. 258

Ken Nobis, St. Johns 989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 202

Southwest Area

Manufacturing Kaylan Kennel............................................... 248-880-5413

Kris Wardin, St. Johns 989-640-9420

Supervisor Dave Brady, Grass Lake......................................517-937-9061 Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers....................................269-967-7351 Brittni Tucker, Wyoming....................................248-880-3785

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

Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453

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

Mark Halbert, Battle Creek 269-964-0511

Steve Post, White Pigeon...................................248-938-1555

Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt.................................................... ext. 210

Mark Iciek, Gladwin 989-387-4767

Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Steve Lehman, Ithaca........................................989-330-1638

Communications Allison Stuby Miller................................................. ext. 296 Krista Schrock............................................... 269-986-6792

District Directors

Rachel Botta, Findlay, OH...................................248-533-2288 Joe Packard, Manchester...................................248-520-3481

Supply Chain Therese Tierney....................................................... ext. 217

Other Member Services

Member Relations Jessica Welch.......................................................... ext. 303

Southeast Area

Bulk Tank Calibration John Lehman, Elsie............................................248-444-6775 Sustainability Coordinator Kendra Kissane, Grand Rapids...........................248-880-4234

MMPA Labs

Human Resources Bill Zoli.................................................................... ext. 301

Manufacturing Plants

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

In Michigan....................................................800-572-5824 Toll Free 800-233-2405

Constantine, Michigan Dave Davis, Plant Manager............................ 269-435-2835

Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.)..................... 989-834-2515

Middlebury Cheese Co., Middlebury, Indiana Henry England, Plant Manager...................... 574-825-9511

Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.).........800-391-7560

Ovid, Michigan......................................... 989-834-2221

Merchandise - Mt. Pleasant Supervisor: Duane Farmer Main Line......................................................... 989-317-8370 Toll Free............................................................ 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi)..................................800-572-5824, then dial 2 Fax................................................................... 989-317-8372 Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor Katie Pierson.....................................................989-289-9686

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

1 Hank Choate Cement City 517-529-9032 2 Tim Hood Paw Paw 269-657-5771 3 David Pyle Zeeland 616-772-1512 4 Corby Werth Alpena 989-464-5436 5 Doug Chapin Remus 231-349-4059 6 Tony Jandernoa Fowler 989-593-2224 7 Eric Frahm Frankenmuth 989-652-3552 8 Scott Lamb Jeddo 810-327-6135

MARCH 2018 | MESSENGER

35

is what the Michigan Milk Producers Association is all about. We’re working together for our farm families and the communities we serve.

MMPA IS A DAIRY COOPERATIVE AND MILK PROCESSOR SERVING DAIRY FARMERS IN THE GREAT LAKES REGION SINCE 1916.

MMPA

41310 BRIDGE STREET, NOVI, MI 48375

(248) 474-6672

MIMILK.COM