Michigan Milk Messenger: May 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 11 | MAY 2018

CULTURE OF QUALITY Consistent milk quality helped

GILDE FARMS LLC earn Top Quality Award

mimilk.com

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MAY 2018 FEATURES

BACK! DR. PAMELA RUEGG TAKES 14 | SHE'S THE LEAD AT MSU ANIMAL SCIENCE

She is a Yooper by birth, a Badger by work, but Spartan green blood runs through her veins. Dr. Pamela Ruegg, DVM, MPVM, has returned to her roots to take the position of Chair of the Department of Animal Science at Michigan State University.

On the Cover The Gilde family, Randy, Mary, Nick, Amanda, Nathan and Aaryn, from Lake City, Michigan was named MMPA's Top Quality Award winner. Learn about their farm and family on page 18.

18 | CULTURE OF QUALITY: GILDE FARMS LLC

22 |

Excellent quality takes dedication and consistency. It also takes hard work to achieve. But Gilde Farms LLC, accomplished the highest quality milk among MMPA farms in 2017 and was honored at the at the 102nd MMPA Annual State Delegate Meeting.

TRANSFORMING MMPA MMPA General Manager Joe Digilo communicated part of the strategy for the cooperative going into the future at the 102nd Annual State Meeting on March 15. Read an excerpt from his speech to learn more details shared at the meeting.

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.

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

3

CONTENTS 6

MMPA MATTERS

“Whether it is through a collaborative approach or a self-initiated project, we will continue to look for opportunities that will create value added returns.”

Why we are building relationships

8

QUALITY WATCH Things are heating up—are you ready?

— JOE DIGILO (PAGE 22)

10

NEWS & VIEWS

11

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

12 16 17

BUSTING DAIRY MYTHS AT THE YOUNG COOPERATORS CONFERENCE SHARING KNOWLEDGE TO PREPARE FOR FFA AG SKILLS CONTEST

DEPARTMENTS 25

MERCHANDISE

26

QUALITY PREMIUMS

27 POLICIES

OYDC SNAPSHOT: RACHEL HINKLEY AND DEVIN HAGAMAN

28 FREELINERS

24

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

30

Surrounding High School Athletes with

Nutrition Information and Chocolate Milk

29 CLASSIFIEDS MARKET REPORT

31 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)

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

5

MMPA MATTERS

Why we are building relationships

BY KEN NOBIS, MMPA PRESIDENT

Does anyone care about relationships anymore? In a world that appears to grow increasingly divided, you might think not. If you monitor social media or the 24-hour news cycle using any news outlet, you will be convinced that as some folks said in years gone by, “the world is going to hell in a handbasket.” I don’t see the phrase “going to hell in a handbasket” used often any more, but many share that perception of relationships in our dairy world.

However, scratch the surface and dig a little deeper into reality, and you will find a different story about relationships playing out, at least at MMPA. We have been working diligently in all areas of our business to build relationships.

“The old way of doing business was to take the orders as they came in. The new way of doing business with our customers is to seek new ways of working together to add value for both entities.”

Let’s start with our members. We recognized the need to be more transparent with the consumer because they are so far removed from understanding how production agriculture works today. Knowing that the consumer needed metrics to measure food quality, we enriched mandated quality programs to incent our members to be better than average. Our members have always recognized how crucial quality is in milk production, and they did not disappoint our customers this time around. MMPA’s highly qualified field staff helped our members reach even higher quality standards. As a result, we have built much stronger relationships with our business customers and consumers, and that helps to cement our futures.

But it doesn’t stop there with our business customers. The old way of doing business was to take the orders as they came in. The new way of doing business with our customers is to seek new ways of working together to add value for both entities. The MMPA staff has been more than willing to make the transition to the new way of working with our customers.

The new way of doing business spreads even further out, encompassing our relationships with a host of governmental agencies, too numerous to mention but important at all levels from local to national. For example, focusing on environmental quality is always important at all levels of government.

Regulations that relate to environmental concerns are something dairy producers deal with every day. When I was first elected president of MMPA, our relations with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) needed to be strengthened. Jim Byrum, who was (and is) at the helm of Michigan Agriculture Business Association, saw the need to build relationships with the DEQ and start talking with each other rather than haranguing each other, which was all that was going on at that time. Once we started talking to each other, we discovered that we were on similar paths, with our ultimate goal being not to damage the environment. All we wanted was practical methods of reaching that goal. We have come a long way toward agreeing how to reach that end point.

I often return to the chronicle of the changes in our relationships with the DEQ as a prime example of how working together and understanding each other’s goals can reach the agreed-upon end point without acrimony.

This is just a smattering of reasons why I believe building relationships is so important to the future of MMPA. Putting a face on MMPA as we go forth to build relationships continues to be essential. While it is necessary that we enlist the help of those from outside our industry to deliver our message, the message will not be as effective unless it is also heard from dairy producers themselves. It must be delivered by our board members - and all co-op members - who experience the day-to-day challenges working on their farms, along with the support of our staff at MMPA. This is our strategy as we strive to fulfill our mission to market our members’ milk to the best possible advantage.

6

MESSENGER | MAY 2018

FINANCIAL TROUBLES DUE TO

SAGGING MILK PRICES?

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MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

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QUALITY WATCH

Things Are Heating Up – Are You Ready?

BY EMILY PEACOCK, MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE

U.S. dairy farmers lose an estimated $900 million a year due to heat stress. Going into the warmer months, this should come to the forefront of your mind to maintain production, reproductive performance and cow comfort in your herd.

“Regardless of housing, heat abatement strategies need to be managed and maintained. … Upholding the maintenance on your fans throughout the summer will ensure the maximum efficiency to reduce heat stress on your farm.”

When determining if your heat abatement is effective, you should consider using Temperature-Humidity Index (THI), which can be measured with an anemometer or air flow meter. High humidity makes it harder for cows to cool themselves by evaporative cooling. Typically, cows start to show signs of heat stress around a THI of 68, and that’s exacerbated in higher producing cows due to added metabolic heat created from higher feed intake and milk production. Regardless of housing, heat abatement strategies need to be managed and maintained.

Fan placement is key in free stall barns. Placing them over the feed alleys with sprinklers systems helps to encourage feed intake during hotter days. Center them over head-to-head stalls and outside rows in three-row barns. Spacing does depend on size and capacity. Both fans and sprinklers should turn on at 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Your sprinkler systems should span the length of the feed alley and have spray nozzles seven to eight feet apart to allow overlap in the spray pattern and should be in the 11 o’clock position (towards the cow area) to ensure water coverage on cows and to keep from soaking feed. The on-off timing should be set to ensure the proper amount of water coverage on the cows and enough time for the air flow created by fans to cause the effect of evaporative cooling.

To prepare for the warmer months make sure to do routine maintenance before the first use. For your fans, poor maintenance can reduce the efficiency by more than 40 percent. Efficiency can also be hindered by dust and dirt accumulation on blades and grills, by insufficient oil and by broken pieces. Checking the alignment and orientation will guarantee that a four to six mph air velocity is reaching cow level. Don’t forget to calibrate thermostats to the correct temperature. Upholding the maintenance on your fans throughout the summer will ensure the maximum efficiency to reduce heat stress on your farm.

Sprinkler systems also lose efficiency when not properly maintained. Check that all nozzles are functioning and are not clogged, the pipe is not sagging and the nozzles are positioned at the correct angle.

With pasture systems, it is recommended to place a shade structure over feed bunks to maximize feed intake and reduce heating of feed. The material used for the shade structures should block 90 to 100 percent of the UV rays. Placing them in a NorthSouth orientation allows for drying throughout the day. These shades should be maintained, and fabric should be replaced or fixed, if ripped, to continue to provide maximum shade.

Implementing these heat abatement strategies is crucial to avoiding the production losses, decreased reproduction rates and health concerns that come with warm weather.

However, if you don’t maintain them, you may not see the payout of implementing these systems.

8

MESSENGER | MAY 2018

81ST ANNUAL

MMPA 4-H

MILK MARKETING TOUR JUNE 27-28

WHAT:

» Meet other students interested in dairy

MMPA/4-H Milk Marketing Tour - two days of dairy & milk marketing tours, presentations and activities

WHO:

WHY ATTEND?

15 to 18-year-olds (as of Jan. 1, 2018) 4-H/FFA members or other students interested in dairy or milk marketing

WHEN:

June 27-28, 2018

WHERE:

MMPA Office, Novi, Michigan

» Take a tour of a dairy processing plant » Meet leaders in the Michigan dairy industry » Earn the chance to attend the National 4-H Dairy Conference in Madison, Wisconsin

SPACE IS LIMITED TO THE FIRST 30 STUDENTS Contact Jessica Welch at MMPA for more information at 248-474-6672 or jwelch@mimilk.com.

Students who have already participated in the Milk Marketing Tour are not eligible to attend.

REGISTRATION FORM - MMPA 4-H MILK MARKETING TOUR PARTICIPANT INFORMATION ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ NAME COUNTY ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ STREET ADDRESS ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY / STATE / ZIP ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ PHONE EMAIL

AFFILIATION:

4-H

FFA

Other

AGE: ______

GENDER:

Male

Female

ADULT CHAPERONE INFORMATION ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ NAME

DUE MAY 25 Mail completed form to: Melissa Elischer Michigan State University Anthony Hall 474 S. Shaw Lane Rm 1287H East Lansing, MI 48824

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ STREET ADDRESS ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY / STATE / ZIP ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ PHONE EMAIL

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

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NEWS & VIEWS

USDA Re-Opens 2018 Enrollment for New Dairy Margin Protection Program The U.S. Department of Agriculture is encouraging dairy producers to consider enrolling in the new and improved Margin Protection Program for Dairy (MPP-Dairy), which will provide better protections for dairy producers from shifting milk and feed prices. With changes authorized under the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) has set the enrollment period to run from April 9, 2018 to June 1, 2018.

The program protects dairy producers by paying them when the difference between the national all-milk price and the national average feed cost (the margin) falls below a certain dollar amount elected by the producer. Changes include: • Calculations of the margin period is monthly rather than bi-monthly.

• Covered production is increased to 5 million pounds on the Tier 1 premium schedule, and premium rates for Tier 1 are substantially lowered.

• An exemption from paying an administrative fee for limited resource, beginning, veteran, and disadvantaged producers. Dairy operators enrolled in the previous 2018 enrollment period that qualify for this exemption under the new provisions may request a refund.

Dairy operations must make a new coverage election for 2018, even if you enrolled during the previous 2018 signup period. Coverage elections made for 2018 will be retroactive to January 1, 2018. All dairy operations desiring coverage must sign up during the enrollment period and submit an appropriate form (CCC-782) and dairy operations may still “opt out” by not submitting a form. All outstanding balances for 2017 and prior years must be paid in full before 2018 coverage is approved.

Dairy producers can participate in FSA’s MPP-Dairy or the Risk Management Agency’s Livestock Gross Margin Insurance Plan for Dairy Cattle (LGM-Dairy), but not both.

During the 2018 enrollment period, only producers with an active LGM-Dairy policy who have targeted marketings insured in 2018 months will be allowed to enroll in MPP-Dairy by June 1, 2018; however, their coverage will start only after active target marketings conclude under LGM-Dairy.

USDA has a web tool to help producers determine the level of coverage under the MPPDairy that will provide them with the strongest safety net under a variety of conditions.

Available at www.fsa.usda.gov/mpptool, the online resource allows dairy farmers to quickly and easily combine unique operation data and other key variables to calculate their coverage needs based on price projections. The secure site can be accessed via computer, smartphone, tablet or any other platform. SOURCE: USDA USDA IS MAILING POSTCARDS ADVISING DAIRY PRODUCERS OF THE CHANGES. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.FSA.USDA.GOV/DAIRY.

Upcoming Events JUNE 1 World Milk Day JUNE 27-28 MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing Tour, Novi JULY 9 Advisory Committee Meeting, Novi 10

MESSENGER | MAY 2018

Producers scoring 95 percent or higher on Grade A surveys and Federal Check ratings Folkersma Farm LLC Hoolsema Dairy Inc. March prices increased The March Class III price was $14.22 per hundredweight, an increase of $0.82 from the previous month. The Class IV Price was $13.04, up $0.17 from February.

MMPA Advisory Committee DISTRICT 1 Scott Ferry, Litchfield............................517-214-3298 Jeff Horning, Manchester....................734-428-8610 Brad Hart, Clayton..................................517-445-2649 Daniel Minnis, Dansville.......................517-521-3529 Art Riske, Hanover..................................517-524-6015

DISTRICT 2 Mark Crandall, Battle Creek.................269-660-2229 Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN.........574-825-2454 Danny Ransler, Gobles..........................269-998-3802 Dan Ritter, Potterville............................517-645-7318 Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN.......574-825-5198

DISTRICT 3 Tim Butler, Sand Lake............................269-330-5538 Bill Gruppen, Zeeland...........................616-520-5143 Bill Stakenas, Free Soil...........................231-425-6913 Burke Larsen, Scottville........................231-425-8988 Gary Nelsen, Grant.................................231-834-7610

DISTRICT 4 Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................425-533-8106 Jeremy Werth, Alpena...........................989-464-4022 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard....................906-630-1957 Russ Tolan, Ossineke..............................989-471-2993 Ron Lucas, Posen....................................989-379-4694

DISTRICT 5 Robert Lee, Marion................................231-743-6794 Mike Rasmussen, Edmore...................989-304-0233 Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................989-506-5287 Bruce Benthem, McBain.......................231-920-1615 Amy Martin, Leroy..................................231-388-0496

DISTRICT 6 David Reed, Owosso..............................989-723-2023 Mike Halfman, St. Johns.......................989-640-1962 Aaron Gasper, Lowell............................616-897-2747 Steve Thelen, Fowler.............................989-690-1075 Brad Ritter, Byron....................................586-405-4749

DISTRICT 7 John Bennett, Prescott.........................989-345-4264 Rodney Fowler, Chesaning.................989-302-2299 Scott Kleinhardt, Clare..........................989-386-8037 Philip Gross, Weidman..........................989-289-0670 Jason Elenbaum, Mayville...................989-274-1974

DISTRICT 8 Bill Blumerich, Berlin.............................810-706-2955 Darwin Sneller, Sebewaing.................989-977-3718 Mike Noll, Croswell.................................810-404-4071 Mike Bender, Croswell..........................810-404-2140 Nick Leipprandt, Pigeon......................517-897-4155

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

Evolving CWT to Meet Today’s Export Challenges

BY JIM MULHERN, PRESIDENT & CEO, NATIONAL MILK PRODUCERS FEDERATION

One of the hallmarks of the natural world is that the most successful organisms are those that best adapt to a changing environment. The same is true of organizations; those that adapt to change will prosper, while those that don’t face a dire future.

I

n the 15 years since the Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) program was founded as a dairy farmer self-help tool, it has undergone significant evolutionary shifts to ensure its maximum effectiveness and return on investment. To fulfill its mission of helping America’s dairy farmers, CWT initially supported both dairy herd retirements and product exports. Since 2010, CWT’s exclusive focus has been enhancing exports of a mix of dairy products that provide the most lift for farm-level milk prices. Specifically, CWT has targeted products containing a significant amount of milkfat, such as American-style cheeses and butter, since the value of fat is a dominant factor in farmers’ milk checks.

Over its lifespan, CWT has helped its member cooperatives move more than 900 million pounds of cheese, butter products and whole milk powder into export markets, representing the milk equivalent of 11.1 billion pounds. The overall growth of U.S. dairy exports in recent years is due in no small part to the role played by CWT. In fact, 80 percent of total American-type cheese exports, and 23 percent of butter sales, are made because of CWT’s export

bonuses. It’s a successful model that ultimately benefits every cooperative and dairy farmer in America, regardless of their degree of involvement in the export activities of CWT. But times are changing, and so must the CWT business model. The domestic market for dairy sales is growing at a slower rate than the world market overall. Total U.S. dairy exports have plateaued in the past three or four years, at a roughly 14 percent share of overall U.S. milk production.

The fast-rising middle class in the developing world presents a host of opportunities for dairy exports from the developed world – a fact that has not escaped the attention of our primary competitors. Companies in the European Union and New Zealand are repositioning their dairy sectors to capitalize on the long-term trend of growing demand for dairy in Asia and the Middle East.

Against this background, and with the support of the CWT board, we have recently formulated a new strategic assessment to evolve the program to address the new challenges of today’s world marketplace. We want to continue building on successful past practices but, critically, make course adjustments to address new challenges and take better advantage of all the opportunities in an increasingly dynamic global market. CWT’s member cooperatives are reviewing a series of proposed improvements in its overall strategic mission and plan, with the goal of incorporating these strategic approaches as the program’s membership authorization is renewed for 2019 and beyond.

Among the strategies under consideration for CWT are the following recommendations: • Expand the range of exports to engage more products, shippers and customers.

• Adjust the bidding process to facilitate longer-term contracts.

• Encourage higher-value marketing strategies in retail and foodservice channels.

• Develop improved market intelligence on prices and market needs.

• Maximize collaboration with other farmer-funded efforts, such as USDEC and DMI.

CWT has been a critically important and valuable export marketing tool for America’s farmers. But as we focus on helping to make the United States an even stronger and more effective player in the international dairy marketplace, the challenges ahead are different than the challenge of the past, when our task was introducing more American dairy products to foreign customers.

SOURCE: NMPF

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

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BUSTING DAIRY MYTHS at the 2018 Young Cooperators Conference

Younger cooperative members

This year’s conference theme of “Dairy Myth Busters” opened up the conversation about common myths circling in the dairy industry, and participants were given the opportunity to discuss the different issues they’re facing and how to combat common myths.

gathered April 6 in Battle Creek, Michigan for the annual Young Cooperator Conference. Held every year as a component of MMPA’s leadership development programs, the conference brings relevant topics to members such as farm

The morning session included presentations from MMPA General Manager Joe Diglio, MMPA President Ken Nobis and United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) CEO Sharon Toth. The leaders provided updates on the cooperative, the dairy industry and the work of the Michigan dairy checkoff, respectively.

succession and revealing deceptive food marketing tactics.

Tour of Crandall Dairy Farm, LLC

NETWORK 12

MESSENGER | MAY 2018

»

LEARN

»

The afternoon’s keynote speaker was Andy Junkin, an author and owner of FarmSuccession.com, who used personal experience to share the importance of proper farm succession planning. In today’s depressed dairy market, he stressed the importance of knowing your cost of production and constantly improving efficiencies.

Chris Galen, from the National Milk Producers Federation, rounded out the day’s slate of presentations by introducing the YCs to the Peel Back the Label Campaign, which strives to share the truth about the food consumers are purchasing. The campaign has targeted several food

CONNECT

»

GROW

YC Planning Committee Members

MORE ABOUT THE OYDC PROGRAM: The purpose of the OYDC program is to strengthen leadership abilities in young farmers, broaden young farmers’ knowledge of milk marketing and MMPA and recognize the abilities and stewardship of our young dairy farmers. The 2018 OYDC conference, where the upcoming representatives and runners-up are selected, will be

DARRIN & BARBARA SIEMEN AND JARRIS & REBEKAH RUBINGH. (NOT PICTURED: NATE & JENNY ELZINGA AND DAVE & GRETCHEN TOLAN.)

held August 14-15 in Novi, MI.

companies—such as Hunt’s Tomatoes and Stonyfield Yogurt—making misleading claims to put pressure on their confusing marketing tactics.

The conference also included a trip offsite for a tour of a local MMPA member farm, Crandall Dairy Farm LLC. The farm milk 330 cows and is well known for producing high quality milk. Brad Crandall gave the YCs a tour of their farm, showing off the parlor setup and milk taxi mobile pasteurizer for feeding calves.

In the evening, conference attendees returned to the hotel for an evening of entertainment with a comedian and magician.

KRIS WARDIN (R) LISTENS AS BRAD CRANDALL (L) SHARES INFORMATION ABOUT THEIR FARM.

MMPA PRESIDENT KEN NOBIS AND KEYNOTE SPEAKER, AUTHOR ANDY JUNKIN.

ANDY JUNKIN DISCUSSED FARM SUCCESSION PLANNING AND IMPROVING EFFICIENCY.

CHRIS GALEN INTRODUCED YCS TO THE PEEL BACK THE LABEL CAMPAIGN.

The YC Conference is a component of the Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator (OYDC) program. The conference is organized with assistance by the YC planning committee, made up of the 2016 and 2017 OYDC representatives and runners-up. This year’s planning committee were Nate and Jenny Elzinga, Darrin and Barbara Siemen, Jarris and Rebekah Rubingh, and Dave and Gretchen Tolan.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE OYDC PROGRAM, PLEASE VISIT MIMILK.COM/ YOUNG-COOPERATORS OR CONTACT JESSICA WELCH AT JWELCH@MIMILK.COM. MMPA MEMBERS UNDER THE AGE OF 40 INTERESTED IN APPLYING TO BE AN OYDC SHOULD TALK TO THEIR LOCAL OFFICERS.

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

13

SHE’S BACK!

Dr. Pamela Ruegg Takes the Lead at MSU Animal Science

BY MELISSA HART

14

MESSENGER | MAY 2018

She is a Yooper by birth, a Badger by work, but Spartan green blood runs through her veins. Dr. Pamela Ruegg, DVM, MPVM, has returned to her roots to take the position of Chair of the Department of Animal Science at Michigan State University.

B

orn in St. Ignace, Michigan, Ruegg received her undergraduate and DVM degrees from MSU. From 1998- 2017 she served as a Professor and extension milk quality specialist in the Department of Dairy Science at the University of Wisconsin, Madison and remains an emeritus Professor in that Department.

“I was quite happy in my previous job at UW Madison but at this stage of my career, returning to MSU to lead the Department of Animal Science is very appealing as I am returning to where I started with the opportunity to leave a lasting impact,” Ruegg commented.

As the animal agriculture industry changes, colleges and universities are constantly managing their curriculum to make sure students are prepared to meet the requirements of employment.

Ruegg explained, “The previous chair, Janice Swanson, and the faculty have spent a large amount of time working on a revised curriculum that is currently being rolled out. The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is very engaged in assessment of how students actually learn and we continue to assess our students learning outcomes and make adjustments. This is a never-ending task.”

The students enrolled in the MSU ANS program are unique and their career goals vary, but are they ready for the real world? “The students who enroll in Animal Science have diverse career goals, so even defining what the ‘real world’ is can be a point of contention

among faculty.” Ruegg continued, “We do offer different tracks and offer opportunities such as internships, working on our campus farms etc., for students to engage in practical training that will prepare them for their futures, but we need to continue to work with stakeholders to make sure that we are on track.”

Change is inevitable but Ruegg isn’t ready to overhaul anything just yet, commenting that she hasn’t been back long enough to really focus on any changes. She explained, “I want to stress that one thing that attracted me to this department is the reputation and strength of the current faculty.

This is a high performing department with many very capable people who care deeply about their stakeholders.

I hope that I can help position the department so that we can continue to serve Michigan agriculture.”

Over the years, Ruegg has not let any grass grow under her feet. She has had varied professional experiences including private veterinary practice, academic positions at both Atlantic Veterinary College in Prince Edward Island, Canada, and the College of Veterinary Medicine at MSU and corporate technical service. Dr. Ruegg

is active in a number of industry organizations and is a past-president of the National Mastitis Council.

Her extension program has focused on developing programs that help farmers maintain healthy cows and improving milk quality and safety on dairy farms and she has received a number of awards for research and extension programs. Dr. Ruegg has published more than 120 peer reviewed articles based on her interest in using epidemiologic techniques to solve critical issues related to animal health, milk quality and she enjoys bridging the gap between research and practical applications on dairy farms.

Ruegg pointed to meeting and interacting with the students as one of the most fun parts of her job. “The ANS students are enthusiastic, fairly diverse and very engaged in taking advantage of the numerous clubs and activities that make up part of MSU experience.” She continued, “MSU has a very strong sense of community and deep ties to Michigan animal agriculture. I have always felt at home at MSU and that sense of community is not found at many large universities.”

Ruegg concluded, “I’m thrilled to be back in Michigan and reconnecting with many of my friends in the dairy industry. I encourage MMPA members to reach out and let us know how we are doing as we want to be meeting the needs of the dairy industry now and in the future.”

“…one thing that attracted me to this department is the reputation and strength of the current faculty. This is a high performing department with many very capable people who care deeply about their stakeholders. ”—Pam Ruegg MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

15

Sharing Dairy Knowledge to Prepare for FFA

AG SKILLS CONTEST

BY KRISTA SCHROCK

Approximately 65 FFA students gathered in St. Johns, Michigan in late March to prepare for a FFA milk quality and products ag skills contest, thanks to Michigan Milk Producers Association and Michigan State University volunteers.

D

uring the MMPA-sponsored training, students tasted samples of dairy products that may be used in the contest setting— such as whole milk, bleu cheese and heavy whipping cream and practice their skills in all areas of the contest.

MMPA and MSU staff provided insight into the dairy industry and helped answer student’s questions throughout the day in preparation for the FFA Milk

Quality and Products Ag Skills Contest that took place in April at MSU. FFA ag skills contests are designed to challenge students in various areas of interest in preparation of career skills learned in the classroom. With limited resources and time, many times agricultural educators reach out to industry professionals and FFA supporters for help in teaching these skills. There are twenty-five skills contests available to students to select from to demonstrate their proficiency in what they have learned including the milk quality and products contest.

“I really enjoyed going and trying different dairy products,” said attendee, Megan Litomisky of the Perry FFA Chapter. “This training was very helpful in preparing to compete in the contest.”

The milk quality and products ag skills contest consists of five parts: ten milk samples scored on flavor (taste and odor), four milk samples evaluated using California Mastitis Test (CMT) method for somatic cell count levels, ten cheese samples identified, a 30-item multiple choice test covering milk quality production and milk marketing and milk fat content of fresh milk products.

“It has been a great experience working with the high school students each year in preparation for the contest. I love seeing them learn more about dairy products and the dairy industry throughout the day,” shared Bridget Moore, MMPA member representative and one of the training presenters.

FFA STUDENTS PRACTICE USING THE CMT PADDLE WITH MMPA MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE EMILY PEACOCK.

SARAH MICHALEK, MMPA NORTHWEST AREA SUPERVISOR, (MIDDLE) ANSWERS QUESTIONS FROM FFA MEMBERS PARTICIPATING IN THE AG SKILLS CONTEST TRAINING.

BRIDGET MOORE, MMPA MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE TALKS TO THE GROUP ABOUT DAIRY PRODUCTS.

16

MESSENGER | MAY 2018

“These training options for the FFA chapters to come learn from experts for each of the contests is a good opportunity for the students to learn more about career options as well as the knowledge needed for the contest.” — Bridget Moore

OYDC SNAPSHOT

TOP 10

OYDC 2017 Rachel Hinkley and Devin Hagaman

In 1968, Rachel’s grandfather started MarGro Farms making her the third generation. She has been a full-time employee of her father for four years, with dreams of purchasing the farm with her sister in the future. The sense of carrying on the family legacy and traditions are Hinkley’s favorite part of dairying. She is the head milker and is responsible for much of the planting and combining.

ABOUT US…

“I see these uncertain times within the dairy industry as character building.

It forces us to get better at what we do so we can face the future stronger,” shared Hinkley. “My love of cows definitely helps too!”

Herd: 26 milking and 90 total head

Land: 395 acres farmed of corn, soybeans, oats, and alfalfa

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

Local: Hillsdale-Litchfield, District 1

The goals MarGro farms are focusing on are improving herd health and on growing the herd numbers. They use dairy records management systems, a breeding wheel and sire mating services.

Also, the farm practices rotational grazing and soil testing as means of sustainability.

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

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CULTURE OF QUALITY

AARYN AND NATE GILDE

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MESSENGER | MAY 2018

Consistent milk quality helped Gilde Farms LLC earn Top Quality Award

BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! The blaring alarm clocks jars the Gilde family awake to start the morning chores. Worn, soft clothes are slipped on quickly after fumbling around the

BY KRISTA SCHROCK

floor, so the chores can begin on time.

Hot, bitter coffee sweetened with a little dairy cream is gulped down as they trudge out to the barn with the smell of fresh morning air helping clear the sleep from their heads.

The sight of a multigenerational family gathering in the barn to work together is the perfect example of an all-American image.

Established in 1978, Gilde Brothers Farm began when Randy and his brother Steve with their wives, started milking around 100 cows. Since then, Steve and his wife were bought out in 1991 as the next generation began to take ownership. Randy and Mary’s sons, Nathan and Nick, along with their families were officially brought into the business in 2011 under the name Gilde Farms LLC. Named Top Quality Award winner at the 102nd Annual State Delegate Meeting, Gilde Farm LLC was unsurpassed by the nearly 50 percent of MMPA’s farms who received quality awards. While milking 220 cows and farming almost 1,100 acres of corn and alfalfa, this Lake City, Michigan farm maintained an average somatic cell count (SCC) of 47,167 cells per milliliter, pre-incubated (PI) bacteria count of 1,333 cells per milliliter and raw bacteria count of 1,083 cells per milliliter in the 2017 fiscal year.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

19

THE GILDE FAMILY, (L TO R) RANDY, MARY, NICK, AMANDA, NATHAN AND AARYN

Excellent quality takes dedication and consistency. It also takes hard work to achieve. Although it was a shock to the Gildes to receive the award, they shared some of their management style that helps maintain their low counts.

For the Gildes, it is truly a family effort to achieve such high milk quality goals. Each family member and six part-time employees has a part to play in giving the cows the VIP treatment all day every day.

“Great quality and healthy cows is a standard we’ve come to expect from ourselves. We have received quality awards ever since we’ve been with MMPA,” said Mary. “Milk quality effects everything. It’s not just a premium on your milk check and it starts in the parlor.”

“There are two things we focus on for parlor management. We look at the milk filters after every shift for signs of inadequate udder prep and mastitis.

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MESSENGER | MAY 2018

Even though it is very low tech, it is the most effective way to monitor what happens in the parlor for us. I also watch flow rates and milking curves using the Afimilk system,” explained Nathan.

The Afimilk system is an electronic milk meter that gathers information about each animal, stores, and analyzes the data in reports. “These reports give farmers real-time information about their herd’s health and fertility, milk quality and productivity. It shows if the milking routine is being followed,” continued Nathan. “I have found it helps to have something to show employees the importance of following our udder prep procedure if something is off.”

The farm milks twice a day in a double six herringbone parlor using a strict milking procedure. As Nathan describes, they prep three cows at a time starting with dry wiping any loose

debris, fore stripping to inspect the milk and pre-dipping in the first visit.

They return to wipe the dip off and attach the milking unit within 60 to 90 seconds to capture the ideal milk letdown window. Hitting this letdown window helps minimize the time it takes to milk the cow and to get her back in the barn. After the milking machine is removed with automatic take-offs that are carefully calibrated to insure no overmilking occurs, each teat is post dipped with a barrier iodine dip before being released to go back to the freestall barn.

Mastitis protocols include DHI or dairy herd improvement testing every three months, utilizing the cow-side CMT (California mastitis test) as needed and selective treating following milk culture results. In 2010, the farm invested in the equipment and training to conduct on-farm milk culturing to better treat cases of mastitis.

“The main reason for the investment was to prevent overtreatment of cows. It has changed the way we look at mastitis and has even changed our management style focusing more on prevention and animal housing to keep them cleaner rather than dealing with the infections after the fact,” explained Nathan.

The Gildes also have extra tank samples pulled twice a week to monitor bacteria counts closer and prevent problems before they occur. Quarterly, the milking equipment dealer does routine maintenance, checking the pulsators and vacuum levels to ensure proper working order and liners are changed every five weeks.

“Equipment maintenance was always a big emphasis from my dad,” Nathan explained. “He always told us ‘we need to have the best equipment we can, and it needs to be working well.

We can do everything right, but if we aren’t milking the cows correctly, it doesn’t do us much good.’”

Part of doing everything right for the Gildes includes doing their best to put family first. Making sure there is a place for the next generation is important to them as it is for many farms throughout the countryside.

Even though Nick and Nathan’s children are still in school, they play a part in the family business. Hard

work ethics and the high standards set for the farm are instilled so going forward the tradition of high quality will continue.

“The Gilde family are detail-orientated farmers who strive to produce the best quality milk possible,” shared Deb Gingrich, MMPA member representative. “They carefully manage their quality to ensure potential problems are addressed early and prevention is one of the forefront factors in their decision-making process. It is wonderful to work with farms like Gilde Farm LLC who love what they are doing and take such pride in selling a high-quality product.”

In describing her sentiments toward dealing with elevated SCC and low milk prices, Mary simply said, “Never give up.”

“Times have been tough for us before and we buckled down, worked hard paying close attention to details and did our best to make it through.

There is always something good about the present and looking forward to better times puts a little hope on the horizon,” continued Mary. “With farming, things don’t always go to plan, but if we want there to be something for the kids and grandkids, we need to work at it and move forward.”

As the sun sets at dusk over Gilde Farms LLC, the picturesque scene of calves bedded down in thick straw beds, cows comfortably getting a drink at the water fountain or eating at the feed bunk and the skid loader being parked for the night can be seen around the farm. Although the work of a dairy farmer is never complete, working with family is a tradition and a blessing at Gilde Farm LLC.

As the sun sets at dusk over Gilde

TOP FIVE PRIORITIESFarms TOLLC ACHIEVING the picturesque scene HIGH QUALITY MILK of calves bedding down in thick straw beds, cows getting a drink

1

Dedication to prevention

2

at the water fountain or eating at Cleanliness of animals (heifers and dry cows too!)

3

Routine equipment and facilities maintenance

4 Good, consistent feed sources 5

Herd health and udder prep MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

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Transforming MMPA MMPA General Manager Joe Diglio talks transformation and collaboration at annual meeting

BY ALLISON STUBY MILLER

MMPA is transforming to prepare for the realities of today and the unknown possibilities of tomorrow, said Joe Diglio, general manager of the Michigan Milk Producers Association.

“When an industry is changing as rapidly as ours is, adaptability is critical. We can no longer rely on our past practices or suggest that yesterday’s solutions are today’s answers,” Diglio explained during his speech to approximately 400 members and guests during the 102nd Annual State Delegate Meeting on March 15.

“Transformation is part of our strategy,” he continued. “Aligning with others within the industry through people, initiatives and processes will better position us in the changing

“There are many influences that we simply don’t control.

Working together can solve a larger challenge that alone no one can.”

JOE DIGLIO, MMPA GENERAL MANAGER

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MESSENGER | MAY 2018

environment. We compete in a global market and while we have localized challenges, working together can result in benefits for us all on a much larger scale.”

The meeting theme of “Focus on Cooperation” came out in many parts of Diglio’s address as he pointed to MMPA’s long-standing and successful partnerships like with Leprino Foods Company. The cheese manufacturer was later honored during the meeting with the MMPA Valued Partner award.

Further collaboration among the industry included the announcement of a signed memorandum of understanding between MMPA and Foremost Farms USA to expand the cooperative’s current strategic alliance.

The co-investment into each other’s assets in Middlebury, Indiana and Greenville, Michigan will further diversify both cooperatives product mix and avoid redundancies, Diglio explained.

The collaborative approach, Diglio noted, is a turn from MMPA’s past which was prided on independent investments to tackle an increase in MMPA’s production. “While I applaud the direction that was taken back then, some of the challenges we see today aren’t specific to our own growth,” he said. “There are many influences that we simply don’t control. Working together can solve a larger challenge that alone no one can.”

However, investing effectively and efficiently in MMPA’s own assets is still a component of the strategy. MMPA’s plants have been able to handle increased throughput during the growth period of the last few years.

Recognizing forecasted growth in the region, MMPA has more than doubled total internal processing capacity since 2008, now accommodating an additional 4.4 million pounds of milk per day.

“These facilities continue to handle increased throughput which has been a critical reason for our success during this growth period,” Diglio

said. “In combination with teamwork and market intelligence, many sound decisions are made that provides a benefit that often goes unrecognized.”

“As we prepare for new market trends, we will continue to reinvest in our facilities. Whether it is through a collaborative approach or a selfinitiated project, we will continue to look for opportunities that will create value added returns,” he continued.

MMPA’s transformation is also noticeable in evolving customer relationships. Diglio pointed out MMPA’s customer base has expanded in recent years and more customers are looking for partnerships and strategic solutions. Transformation is aligned with customers’ needs as MMPA’s team works closer with customers to find mutually beneficial solutions.

“We are effectively reintroducing ourselves to many new and wellestablished customers that are interested in being partners now and into the future. This is where people make a difference,” he said. “Getting the right people, at the right time, in the right roles promotes success.”

Diglio demonstrated his pride in the team of employees working on behalf of MMPA members. Recent organizational changes in MMPA have facilitated the business’ transformation through a balance of industry experience and new perspectives.

Moving forward, this emphasis will continue to encourage success and new opportunities.

“Transformation is part of our strategy. Aligning with others within the industry through people, initiatives and processes will better position us in the changing environment.”

—Joe Diglio

“We are committed to doing all we can to help support you during these challenging times,” he asserted. “And while it might be difficult to see the progress we are making be assured we are. There are many opportunities we see as we move forward and you have the right team in place today to help us in transforming our business to capture them. While we support the notion of cooperation and collaboration, we will not lose sight of who we represent. We understand, we stand committed to helping in every way possible.”

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

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YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

Surrounding High School Athletes with Nutrition Information and Chocolate Milk

UNITED DAIRY INDUSTRY OF MICHIGAN STAFF CONTINUES TO WORK WITH HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES TO INSTILL IN THEM THE IMPORTANCE OF CHOCOLATE MILK AFTER PRACTICES AND COMPETITIONS AND PROVIDE THEM WITH DAIRY NUTRITION INFORMATION TO SHARE THE ROLE DAIRY PLAYS IN THEIR DIETS. BELOW ARE A FEW PROGRAMS THAT BROUGHT CHOCOLATE MILK FRONT AND CENTER WITH ATHLETES THIS SCHOOL YEAR.

MHSAA Sports Finals Chocolate milk was recently provided during the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Boys and Girls Basketball, Boys Swimming and Diving, Ice Hockey and Girls Gymnastics Finals.

Nearly 400 chocolate milks were provided at each of the finals for the student athletes to refuel following their respective competitions. As always, the milk was a hit, many athletes showing were excited when they saw the cold chocolate milk waiting for them!

DAIRY FARMER DWIGHT NASH REPRESENTED UDIM AND MICHIGAN’S DAIRY FARMERS AT THE MR. BASKETBALL CELEBRATION HONORING THE WINNER, FOSTER LOYER.

DAIRY FARMER RENEE MCCAULEY AND HER NIECE KRISTEN BURKHARDT ATTENDED THE MISS BASKETBALL CELEBRATION AND DID A MILK TOAST WITH THE WINNER, JAIDA HAMPTON.

Conquer with Milk hosted a table at the girls gymnastics finals where girls gathered nutrition information about dairy and bone health and began to follow the Conquer program on Instagram.

Foster Loyer, who is committed to play at Michigan State University, of Clarkston High School and Jaida Hampton, who is committed to play at Wichita State University, of East Lansing High School were voted as winners.

Chocolate Milk: Natures Sports Drink Grant Program

At each final sporting competition, UDIM hosted a Snapchat filter and encouraged participants and spectators to show their dairy love to their online followers. These filters were used 1,824 times and were viewed by nearly 106,000 snapchat users.

Both players led their teams to the State Finals this year. Loyer and the Clarkston team were Class A State Champions. Hampton and the East Lansing team were the Class A Runner Up.

Mr. and Miss Basketball Sponsorship UDIM partnered with the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan to sponsor the prestigious Mr. and Miss Basketball awards. The honor is presented to the best male and female high school basketball player, as voted by coaches across the state.

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MESSENGER | MAY 2018

The public presentations took place during the Class A State Championship games. A dairy farmer represented UDIM and Michigan’s dairy farm families at both presentations. Renee McCauley and her niece Kristen Burkhardt attended the Miss Basketball game at Calvin College. Dwight Nash attended the Mr. Basketball game at the Breslin Center.

During the 2017-2018 school year, over 230 chocolate milk grants were provided, throughout the three seasons they reached over 10,000 athletes.

In addition to monetary funding to purchase the chocolate milk, each team received a “Grant Kit” that contained nutrition information and other dairy goodies.

The grant program will continue to provide high school teams with chocolate milk throughout the 2018-2019 school year. Applications are due: • May 25, 2018 for fall sports • October 5, 2018 for winter sports • January 25, 2019 for spring sports If you have any questions about how chocolate milk is promoted to high school athletes, please contact the UDIM office at 517-349-8923.

MERCHANDISE

Fly Control Temperatures are on the rise and of course as the temperatures increase, 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: $14.11/can.

QuikStrike 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

Member price: $19.13/pkg.

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 For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392 or one of the following service representatives: Ben Johnson 26959 Rosanna Ct. South Bend, IN 46619 810-824-0636 Pat Mitchell 7273 N. Rollin Hwy. Addison, MI 49220 517-403-0928 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

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

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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.......................................................................... $14 • Bacteriology Cultures.......................................................................... $16 – 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.

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MESSENGER | MAY 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.

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

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FREELINERS

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

Bulls

Equipment (cont.)

Service age Holstein bulls. Call

2006 Jaylor 4650 twin screw

Steve Alexander, 810-622-8548

mixer, $8500. Brillion 9-shank

evenings or 810-404-8548.

chisel plow, $1850. 517-420-5042.

Crossbred Bulls. 100% AI.

John Deere 3970 Chopper

810-724-8825.

with 7 ft. hay head, always housed, very good condition.

Cows

616-218-9350 or 616-218-7125.

5350 Gallon Dumar Liquid

20 Holstein cows, average 70#, 3.85

Spreader, looks like new.

BFT, Scc 85. Most of the cows are in 1st

616-218-9350 or 616-218-7125.

and 2nd lactation, asking $1,200 per cow. Call 231-228-5457.

936 Versatile 4-wheel drive, good runner. 616-218-9350 or 616-218-7125.

Milking Equipment 858 gal. Mueller bulk tank, new

Misc.

compressor 2 years ago, $1250.

Complete Surge 2” pipeline with 6

Small square and round bales

Surge milkers, vacuum pump motor

of straw. 989-553-2683.

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 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.

just replaced, $500. 616-403-0363 or 616-403-1645.

BouMatic Glacier bulk tank, 1250 gallons has (2) 3-horse compressors, does not leak Freon approximately 10 years old, complete with washer, asking $8500 or best offer. Call 989-884-2203.

LEGENDAIRY.

Double 5 Surge Auto Flow Parlor.

No bull.

616-218-9350 or 616-218-7125.

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!

Equipment 20' Van Dale silo unloader, new gear box $1000 /obo. 80' Patz belt feeder w/plow, 12" belt $1000 /obo. IH 540 pto silo blower $1200 /obo. John Deere 215 disk 16' wide, 9" spacing, 19" blades $3000. John Deere 2600 5-18 plow $1500. 989-307-0669.

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MESSENGER | MAY 2018

Non-GMO

products available

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

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

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

Call 1-800-365-3361.

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

A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/ texturing provides high quality traction in new & old concrete, fast service. Call for your below pricing 989-635-1494. BLUE RIBBON HOOF TRIMMING, LLC. FOR SALE: NEW & USED MILK TANKS. We stock all sizes, makes, models. Special prices to co-op members, corporate & private farms.

Contact us anytime day or night.

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

Muellers call for quote. 800-558-0112.

DRY HAY & STRAW (large & small bales) & BARLEY FOR FEED. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

ALPHALFA HAYLAGE (excellent & fair grades) & CORN SILAGE. Call 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

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

HOOF TRIMMING - 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. Also doing fly control and cement grooving. Gibson Hoof Care (Tom) 989-239-6843.

FOR SALE: 2nd, 3rd and 4th cutting good quality haylage.

I also have beet pulp and corn silage. All stored under two layers of plastic with tire sidewalls touching each other. Aron Whitaker, Elsie, MI. 989-666-6565.

OPEN POLLINATED CORN SEED. Early varieties Green Haven Open Pollinated Seed Group Call 607-566-9253. www.openpollinated.com.

MICHIGAN CERTIFIED OAT SEED. Spring Barley Seed and Medium Red June Clover Seed. Roundup Ready II, Liberty Link and MCIA 2323 Soybean Seed. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

FOR SALE: 35 ft. IH field cultivator. Good condition. $1,800.

Call 989-593-2488.

FOR SALE: 1000 4X5 Grassy 1st Cutting Balage, 750 ton Alfalfa Haylage, 2000 ton Corn Silage and 22,000 bushel of High Moisture Ground Ear Corn.5455 E. Wilson Rd, Clio, MI 48420. 810-444-4383.

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

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

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

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

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MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary AMS Survey Prices (monthly average, per pound)

Cheese 1.5542 / LB

| FOR MILK MARKETED IN MARCH 2018

Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33

# This Month # Year Ago % Change Total Class 1 Sales

542,642,206

565,993,656

-4.13

Total Class 2 Sales

341,434,821

338,604,355

+0.84

Total Class 3 Sales

444,282,040

620,618,458

-28.41

Total Class 4 Sales

285,934,173

330,521,877

-13.49

1,614,293,240

1,855,738,346

-13.01

33.6%

30.5%

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers...............................................................................4,619 Avg. Daily Production per farm....................................................11,274 Avg. Protein Test...........................................................................3.16%

Butter 2.1759 / LB

Avg. Butterfat Test.........................................................................3.89% Avg. Oth Solids Test......................................................................5.79% Avg. SCC - MMPA......................................................................155,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb.......................................................................... $1.8066

Milk Powders

Other Solids Price /lb................................................................. $0.0556

Nonfat Dry Milk

Class III Price @ 3.5%.................................................................... $14.22

0.6963 / LB

Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt................................................... ($0.18)

Dry Whey

Uniform Price @ 3.5%................................................................... $14.04

0.2531 / LB

SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000..................................................... $0.00078

National Trends* (production in millions of pounds)

*For 23 States 30

Butterfat Price /lb....................................................................... $2.4273

MESSENGER | MAY 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

3,233 2,327 1,128 1,131 861 860 978 760 658 509 431 333 15,922 51,045

3,124 2,330 1,155 1,073 858 863 928 764 637 492 430 331 15,645 50,202

+3.5 -0.1 -2.3 +5.4 +0.3 -0.3 +5.4 -0.5 +3.3 +3.5 +0.2 +0.6 +1.8 +1.7

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

East Area Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Christy Dinsmoore, Vassar.................................248-513-7920 Animal Care Coordinator Lindsay Green, East Lansing...............................989-488-8159 Ashley Herriman, Herron...................................269-245-6632 Laura Lubeski, Bad Axe......................................248-826-6294 Joe Packard, Manchester...................................248-520-3481 Emily Peacock, Otisville......................................248-826-7243

General Manager Joe Diglio................................................................ ext. 202 Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys......................................................... ext. 240 Hedging and Business Development Aaron Beak............................................................. ext. 256 Controller Shelly Bonnici.......................................................... ext. 249

Josep Barenys, Asst. Treasurer

Quality Amandeep Dhillon.................................................. ext. 305 Sales James Feeney.......................................................... ext. 258 Manufacturing Kaylan Kennel............................................... 248-880-5413

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

Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers....................................269-967-7351

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

Brittni Tucker, Wyoming....................................248-880-3785 Rachel Botta, Findlay, OH...................................248-533-2288 Steve Post, White Pigeon...................................248-938-1555

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

Other Member Services

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

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

In Michigan....................................................800-572-5824 Toll Free 800-233-2405 Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.)..................... 989-834-2515 Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.).........800-391-7560

Member Relations Jessica Welch.......................................................... ext. 303 Human Resources Bill Zoli.................................................................... ext. 301

Manufacturing Plants Constantine, Michigan Dave Davis, Plant Manager............................ 269-435-2835 Ovid, Michigan Ron Steinhorst, Plant Manager...................... 989-834-2221 Middlebury Cheese Co., Middlebury, Indiana Henry England, Plant Manager...................... 574-825-9511

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

Kris Wardin, Vice President

Management Information Systems Andrew Caldwell.....................................................ext. 304

Supervisor Dave Brady, Grass Lake......................................517-937-9061

Raw Milk Compliance Manager Steve Lehman, Ithaca........................................989-330-1638

Ken Nobis, President

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

South Area

Sustainability Coordinator Kendra Kissane, Byron Center...........................248-880-4234

Officers

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

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

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

Board of Directors

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.

Joe Diglio, GM / Secretary

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel Directors-At-Large Ken Nobis, St. Johns 989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 202 Kris Wardin, St. Johns 989-640-9420 Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453 Carlton Evans, Litchfield 517-398-0629 Mark Iciek, Gladwin 989-387-4767 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 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

MAY 2018 | MESSENGER

31

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.

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 11 | MAY 2018

CULTURE OF QUALITY Consistent milk quality helped

GILDE FARMS LLC earn Top Quality Award

mimilk.com