Michigan Milk Messenger: September 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. 101 | ISSUE 3 | SEPTEMBER 2018

mimilk.com

Webb-Vue Hang-Time 8192 Summit Farms LLC, Plymouth, WI Photo by Fisher

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Stat BWC -0.78 -1.42 -0.09 -0.16 0.50 -0.51 -0.80 -0.78 -0.52 -0.85 -0.68 -1.56 0.75 -0.37 0.50 -0.65

UDC 1.96 2.26 2.06 1.62 1.14 2.52 2.68 2.28

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SEPTEMBER 2018 FEATURES COMES ONE STEP 14 | VERIFICATION AT A TIME

On the Cover Brothers Jeremy and Paul Werth of Butterwerth Dairy stand near a deer fence that surrounds the farm to minimize deer and cow interaction. The farm was selected as one of the six farms honored with a 2018 Platinum Award in the National Milk Quality Awards Program.

The first producer in Mason County to be verified

in three MAEAP systems was Larsen Dairy Farm.

Burke and Lisa Larsen share the steps they took and benefits they experienced in earning their certification in the voluntary program.

CONFERENCE GIVES YOUNGER 16 | OYDC MEMBERS CLOSE LOOK AT THEIR CO-OP

Finalists representing their co-op locals had the opportunity to tour the Novi headquarters offices on August 14-15 as part of the OYDC conference. Learn more about the conference and the OYDC program.

BUTTERWERTH DAIRY 18 | REBUILDING AFTER BOVINE TB

When the unexpected strikes, working as a family makes the journey to recovery a better experience. The nationally recognized Butterwerth Dairy of Alpena, Michigan not only survived, but thrived, despite their battle with Bovine TB.

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.

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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CONTENTS 6

MMPA MATTERS

“Management changes like good nutrient and manure practices can save money.”

Weathering the Seasons of Change as a Cooperative

8

QUALITY WATCH Required Documentation for FARM 3.0

— TOM YOUNG, MAEAP VERIFIER (PAGE 14)

10

NEWS & VIEWS

12

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

24 26 28 29

DAIRY DAYS AT THE MICHIGAN DAIRY EXPO

DEPARTMENTS 30 POLICIES

GREAT DAIRY ADVENTURE A HUGE SUCCESS

31

QUALITY PREMIUMS

32

FREELINERS & CLASSIFIEDS

MLE SALE-ABRATION

33

MERCHANDISE

34

MARKET REPORT

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

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..................................................................................... 2,609 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)

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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MMPA MATTERS

Weathering the Seasons of Change as a Cooperative

BY KEN NOBIS, MMPA PRESIDENT

Where did the summer go? Here we are in a month that transitions us from one season to another, putting us one step closer to winter. Why does summer seem to be a flash in the pan while winter endures forever? Our perception of seasonal length is illusionary, but the current dairy economic downturn hasn’t been. It has been real and brutally long, having hit our market area first before it hit other areas of the country. If it is any consolation - and it really isn’t - the downturn is hammering a broad swath of the U.S. dairy industry today.

“MMPA has been part of an initiative by the NMPF to work with the current administration toward minimizing the negative impacts brought about by recent tariffs and trade restrictions.”

Those disappointing prices we saw this summer when we opened our milk checks had as much to do with the trade issues that face our nation as with anything else. MMPA has been part of an initiative by the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) to work with the current administration toward minimizing the negative impacts brought about by recent tariffs and trade restrictions. MMPA plays an active role with NMPF as it works to make sure that dairy gets its fair share of the $12 billion promised to agriculture to minimize the detrimental effects caused by the steel tariffs imposed by the president. The loss of international markets for our dairy products is difficult, if not impossible, to offset.

NMPF is also working to secure a good position for dairy farmers in the Farm Bill.

It is a difficult time. Many of you will remember John Kronemeyer, who passed away recently at the age of 81. He was a longtime MMPA board member and a true friend of dairy farmers. The dairy situation today reminds me of a conversation I had with John last February at his district meeting in Mackinaw City, where he told me that this has been the worst dairy economy he had endured in his long career of milking cows. I know that we all hope to see this turn around sometime soon. The MMPA board of directors remains confident that our management team has us headed in the right direction.

With the turmoil facing our industry, producers are understandably wondering what can be done. Informational meetings are planned to discuss the situation with MMPA members. We decided to skip the summer round of meetings for two reasons: attendance was dwindling, and we didn’t really have any major news to report until recently, after the sessions would have already taken place. We will hold meetings around the state in December. Attendance should be better because there won’t be a conflict with field work, and we will have plenty to talk about.

MMPA board members and staff continue to look for better markets for our members’ milk.

We have had some good results and have already secured some of those markets. Looking ahead, Glanbia announced in August that a cheese plant will be built in St. Johns, Michigan, and that MMPA will be a supplier. The planned completion date is in the fall of 2020. This is a boost for dairy and a boost for the state’s economy, as many jobs will be created.

Even though I know winter is just around the corner, I’m going to enjoy the crisp fall weather and try not to think about winter for a while. I will keep thinking about the dairy situation, though, as we continue to devise methods and strategies to preserve our farms and our livelihoods.

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QUALITY WATCH

Required Documentation for FARM 3.0

BY DEB GINGRICH, ANIMAL CARE COORDINATOR

FARM 3.0 has been completed on many member farms already with the rest being evaluated by the end of 2019. Unlike past versions, FARM 3.0 requires written protocols such as Herd Health Plans and VCPR’s. Whether or not you have been evaluated using the newest version of the program, there are lots of unanswered questions on what is entailed in the written protocols.

The VCPR

All producers have a signed Vet Client Patient Relationship (VCPR) form by their vet and themselves. This document must be reviewed and re-signed annually, though some vets may require it to be updated more frequently depending on how familiar they are with a farm.

Employee Cow Care and Training Documentation

“Having the Herd Health Plan (HPP) on farm will help ensure everyone is on the same page of following their vet’s recommendations and will help someone unfamiliar with the farm maintain consistency in case of an emergency.”

All non-family employees are required to sign a cow care agreement. This document states willful animal abuse and mishandling is always unacceptable and if employees see anyone else on the farm violating this policy, they will report what they have seen to farm management. Non-family employees also need to sign training documentation for all of their job tasks, such as milking procedure and calf care. All employees should have stockmanship training. Training doesn’t need to be a formal class room style session, videos and on the job training are perfectly acceptable. Though it is not required for family members to sign these cow care and training documents, it is highly encouraged and a great way to set an example for your employees.

The Herd Health Plan (HHP) should at minimum include the following elements: • • • • • • •

• • •

Daily observation of cattle for injury or signs of disease Lameness prevention and treatment Parasite, pest and fly control Vaccination protocols that include age, class, product and route of administration Treatment protocols for common diseases that include age, class, product, route of administration and withdrawal times Dystocia management Newborn calf management that calls for disbudding prior to eight weeks by pasting or thermally disbudding with vet recommended pain management, and if any castration or extra teat removal is done on farm it is completed at the earliest age possible with the use of vet recommended pain management Protocols for sick and injured animals that include pain management Non-ambulatory animal care that includes the proper movement with special equipment, prompt medical care and euthanasia in a timely manner if needed Euthanasia protocols that show the proper technique uses by AVMA and/or AVBP, disposal in compliance with local regulations, and record keeping of deceased animals

Having the HHP on farm will help ensure everyone is on the same page of following their vet’s recommendations and will help someone unfamiliar with the farm maintain consistency in case of an emergency. The HHP should be reviewed and updated by you and the vet annually to make sure all the protocols and recommendations are current and anything that has changed has been updated. Don’t forget to document when the review was done!

VISIT WWW.NATIONALDAIRYFARM.COM UNDER THE RESOURCES TAB FOR HHP EXAMPLES TO CREATE YOUR OWN WRITTEN PROTOCOLS. YOUR FIELD REPRESENTATIVE IS ALSO A GREAT RESOURCE IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, NEED HELP COMPLETING THE WRITTEN PROTOCOLS OR WANT A COMPREHENSIVE TEMPLATE FOR COMPLETING YOUR HHP. HERD VETERINARIANS SHOULD ALSO BE CONTACTED FOR RESOURCES AND ASSISTANCE.

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MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

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NEWS & VIEWS Producers scoring 95 percent or higher on Grade A surveys and Federal Check Ratings Timothy Hagley Twin Dairy Wenkel Farms J & B Dairy LLC Brad and Nicole Wren Carrol and Bradley Fox Simeon and Keturah Petre Edward Reimann Invernss Dairy Farm Inc Joseph and Mary Gingerich Richard Fettig Boss Dairy Farms Inc Stanek Farm* Lemajru Dairy Farm LLC Gallagher Dairy Farm Inc* Circle K Farms Inc *100 percent July prices below June as well as last July The USDA announced last week that the July Class III milk price was $14.10 per cwt., down $1.11 from June’s price, and $1.35 less than July 2017. The Class IV price was $14.14, down 77 cents from last month’s price, and $2.46 lower than last July. The USDA said that the June MPP margin is $7.37

Upcoming Events September 24 MMPA Advisory Committee Meeting Sept. 30 - Oct. 6 National 4-H Dairy Conference and World Dairy Expo, Madison, Wisconsin October 29-31

NDB/NMPF/UDIA Joint Annual Meeting, Phoenix, Arizona 10

Paul and Nancy Pyle Named 2018 MMPA OYDC Paul and Nancy Pyle of Zeeland, Michigan were named MMPA’s 2018 Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators (OYDC). They are members of the West Michigan Local in District 3. The Pyles were selected by a panel of three industry expert judges after the annual OYDC Conference on August 14 and 15 in Novi. As MMPA’s OYDC, they will represent MMPA at several state and national events including the National Milk Producers Federation Annual Meeting in Arizona next month.

Jeremy and Deanna Beebe of Alger, Michigan were named the 2018 OYDC runnersup. They represent the Sunrise Local in District 7.

Learn more about the OYDC Conference on page 16.

2018 OYDC WINNERS, PAUL AND NANCY PYLE WITH THEIR FIVE CHILDREN

Stay up to date with exclusive members-only news MMPA’s monthly members-only newsletter, the Member Connection, continues to be published regardless of changes to the milk check mailing protocol. Members can access the Member Connection newsletter online at producers.mimilk.com.

Check your email inbox for a notification of when it is posted every month. If you opted-in to mailed checks and statements, you will continue to receive the Member Connection with your check.

MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing Tour top five named The MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing Tour educated 17 students about milk marketing principles and cooperative management at the end of June. Following the tour, 10 of the students were invited to interview for one of five open slots on a trip to the National 4-H Dairy Conference and World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin.

The top five individuals in 2018 are: Olivia Walker, Lapeer County; Wyatt Lamb, St. Clair County; Addy Battel, Tuscola County; Rebecca Dunn, Branch County and Olivia Coffey, Allegan County.

2018 MMPA PHOTO CONTEST Thanks for all the great entries!

Winners will be notified by the end of September and will be featured in the November edition of the Michigan Milk Messenger. We plan to have another photo contest in the future, so continue taking photos and watch for details in the Spring of 2019.

USDA Will Purchase Milk to Combat Hunger The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it will purchase, for the first time ever, $50 million in pasteurized fluid milk to benefit Americans in need who do not have regular access to milk. The milk will be distributed through food assistance programs and food banks, such as those under Feeding America — the nation’s largest domestic hunger relief organization. The USDA is expected to purchase between 12-15 million gallons of fat-free, low-fat (1 percent), reducedfat (2 percent) and whole milk as part of this nationwide initiative. According to the department, the announcement is not part of the funding allocated to support farmers and producers negatively impacted by unfair trade practices.

“This purchase addresses one of our country’s significant challenges – hunger – and, at the same time, will have a positive impact on the dairy industry at a time of significant market uncertainty,” says Michael Dykes, president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association. “As many as 41 million Americans, including 13 million children, face hunger daily and are at risk of missing out on essential nutrients when they don’t have access to milk. Simply having more milk available for those in need can make a positive impact on public health.”

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SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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LEGISLATIVE WATCH

MICHIGAN MILK POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE GEARING UP FOR MIDTERM ELECTIONS

W Vote! Election day is November 6, 2018

ith midterm elections right around the corner, the Michigan Milk Political Action Committee (MMPAC) is preparing to help members of MMPA express their interests to legislators in Lansing and Washington, D.C. The MMPAC works to provide bipartisan support to state and federal candidates who demonstrate a willingness to work diligently on behalf of dairy and agricultural interests.

In October, the MMPAC will announce endorsements for candidates up for election this fall. These endorsements are made after each candidate completes a questionnaire and MMPAC members provide input.

Even when the volatile dairy industry impacts producers’ milk checks, it is important MMPA stays involved politically. The candidates MMPA supports must demonstrate support of agriculture and dairy programs, regardless of political affiliation.

MMPA delegates at the 102nd Annual State Delegate Meeting adopted a resolution encouraging all members to contribute one dollar per cow per year to the MMPAC. To contribute and enable the MMPAC to have more power in the political process, fill out a state and/or federal contribution form. Forms can be obtained from the MMPA office, call 248-474-6672 for more information.

MMPAC Challenge Support MMPAC and you could be supporting one of your favorite charities! MMPA will award the MMPA district with the highest percentage of members contributing a donation to the district’s choice of one of five selected charity organizations or youth foundations.

The winning district can select from the following organizations:

» Michigan 4-H Foundation » Michigan FFA Foundation » Michigan Dairy and Memorial Scholarship Foundation » United Way » Local charity with approval by MMPA board of directors

Contributions must be postmarked by October 2, to qualify for the MMPAC Challenge.

The winning district will be announced at the Leaders Conference on Tuesday, Nov. 20.

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MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

New Dairy Revenue Protection Insurance Plan Available Nationwide

MMPA Advisory Committee DISTRICT 1 Scott Ferry, Litchfield............................517-214-3298

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) recently announced a new insurance plan for dairy producers that insures against unexpected declines in quarterly milk sales.

Sign-up for the new product begins Tuesday, October 9, 2018, with the first available coverage starting the first quarter of 2019.

“Expanding the Federal crop insurance program to markets that need it is key to an effective farm safety net. Because of cooperation with partners like the American Farm Bureau Federation, we are able to offer this new product in a way that it can be flexible based on the needs of dairy producers,” said Bill Northey, Under Secretary, Farm Production and Conservation.

The new plan, called Dairy Revenue Protection, provides insurance for the difference between the final revenue guarantee and actual milk revenue if prices fall. It also provides a greater choice of prices from those that focus on cheese to fresh milk, protein or butterfat. Coverage levels are available from 70 to 95 percent of revenue.

Dairy Revenue Protection is available in all counties in all 50 states.

Participating producers are not precluded from participation in the USDA Farm Service Agency’s Margin Protection Plan. Those interested in purchasing Dairy Revenue Protection must do so through an agent selling on behalf of an approved insurance provider. A list of crop insurance agents is available at all USDA Service Centers and online at the RMA Agent Locator, located at www.rma.usda.gov/tools/agent.html.

Dairy Revenue Protection was developed and approved through the Federal Crop Insurance Act’s 508(h) process, which allows private parties to develop insurance products that are in the best interests of producers, follow sound insurance principles and are actuarially appropriate. Dairy Revenue Protection is another risk management tool in the toolbox available to dairy producers. Federal crop insurance helps producers and owners manage risks and strengthens the rural economy.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING DAIRY REVENUE PROTECTION IS AVAILABLE ON THE RMA WEBSITE’S LIVESTOCK PAGE, LOCATED AT WWW.RMA.USDA.GOV/LIVESTOCK/ SOURCE: UDSA

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

“Expanding the Federal crop insurance program to markets that need it is key to an effective farm safety net. Because of cooperation with partners like the American Farm Bureau Federation, we are able to offer this new product in a way that can be flexible based on the needs of dairy producers.”

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 Jeremy Sharrard, Peck...........................810-404-5076 Nick Leipprandt, Pigeon......................517-897-4155

— BILL NORTHEY, UNDER SECRETARY, FARM PRODUCTION AND CONSERVATION

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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VERIFICATION COMES

ONE STEP AT A TIME

BY MELISSA HART

Dairy farming today looks more like a gambling risk than a way of life and minimizing risk is a welcome concept to some dairy producers. With sagging markets, the last thing dairy producers need to worry about is a pollution risk. To help minimize or prevent agricultural pollution risks, the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) was developed. Today more than 4,700 farmstead, cropping, livestock, forest or wetlands and habitat systems have been verified in Michigan.

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MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

T

he first producer to be verified in three MAEAP systems, Farmstead, Cropping and Livestock, in Mason County, was Larsen Dairy Farm, owned by Burke and Lisa Larsen. They work 1,600 acres and milk 500 cows.

When Burke Larsen was first approached to become verified, he admits, he was a little overwhelmed with the process. He explained, “Our initial reaction was one of ‘I’ll never be able to do that,’ but we just kept working at it.” Larsen continued, “It’s not a snap your fingers and get it done

have a plan, the on-farm verification ensures the farm has implemented environmentally sound practices.

type of thing. There were a lot of professionals involved with the process to help us get there and while it was a big step, it was a necessary step to ensure the future of agriculture.”

The fact that MAEAP is a voluntary program appealed to Larsen, “I appreciate that it is voluntary and that we can work at our own pace, otherwise, it might be such a financial burden that we couldn’t do it. The program gives you a lot of freedom to work toward a common goal.” Larsen added, “They are continually evolving to make conservation practices more adaptive to the farm and using common sense in their approach.”

MAEAP is an innovative, proactive and voluntary program that helps farms of all sizes and all commodities prevent or minimize agricultural pollution risks. It ensures that Michigan farmers are engaging in cost-effective pollution prevention practices and working to comply with state and federal environmental regulations. MAEAP Director Joe Kelpinski describes MAEAP as an environmental check that lets a farm know where they are at and how to find solutions to do it better. Essentially they act as an environmental consultant.

With the current dairy climate, Young admitted it is extremely hard to justify spending money on additional environmental practices, but not all changes require additional financial outlays. He explained, “Management changes like good nutrient and manure practices can save money. Many times, farms can become Cropping System verified without spending anything.”

MAEAP verifier, Tom Young said overall, the most difficult obstacle for producers, when initially approached about MAEAP is trusting in the process. He commented, “Farmers need to be comfortable and confident in the local MAEAP technician they are working with toward verification.

Our goal is to find cost effective ways to reduce environmental issues on the farm by partnering with them.”

Benefits of being verified can be seen in several ways Young stated, “Identification and correction of potential risks on the farm, liability protection from accidental discharges, reduction in insurance liability coverage costs and demonstrating to neighbors that your farm is environmentally proactive are all benefits to being MAEAP verified.”

The process to become verified has three phases. It starts off with an overview of the program. Then, a MAEAP technician visits the farm and gathers information, using a set of tools to assess various practices, such as how pesticides, herbicides and petroleum products are stored, or how waste is managed. The technician then sits down with the farmer and comes up with an action plan. Once they

The MAEAP Livestock System Primarily focuses on environmental issues related to livestock activities, including manure handling, storage and field application, as well as conservation practices to protect water and prevent soil erosion.

Step Step

Get Certified!

Certified!

Get

Program Program Overview Overview

Step Step

Farm Farm Visit Visit

LETA, LINDSAY, LEAH, LISA AND BURKE LARSEN

Prioritizing the projects was part of the success at Larsen’s farm. The Larsens constructed fuel, pesticide, and fertilizer storage units and a state-ofthe-art manure storage and handling disposal system. Their one-of-a-kind loop facility reclaims bedding sand for reuse and includes a mechanical manure separator. It also utilizes wash water to transport manure to concretelined pits in an environmentally safe manner. Manure is then spread on crop fields at rates that will not cause runoff or infiltration into ground or surface water.

There are some definite financial benefits to better nutrient management stated Larsen, “Our manure management system is easier, and we have more options now than we used to have and we are more specific in how we apply fertilizer.”

Burke commented that farmers have always tried to be good stewards of the land, “It’s nice to talk to landlords and having them recognize that we are MAEAP verified. They are proud of that and that’s pretty special.” Burke concluded, “I feel now we are being more observant and paying closer attention to the future.”

Step Step

On-farm On-farm Verification Verification

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2018 OYDC CONFERENCE MMPA’s Younger Members Get A Close Look at their Co-op MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator (OYDC) finalists converged in Novi, Michigan for a two-day conference held annually as part of MMPA’s leadership development initiatives.

T

he 2018 OYDC Conference brought together MMPA members to foster leadership and provide education on MMPA and the cooperative. On August 14 and 15, the group participated in tours, cooperative update presentations and competed to be selected as MMPA’s 2018 OYDC. The conference included a tour of the milk testing laboratory and presentations from MMPA’s president, Ken Nobis, and general manager, Joe Diglio. The OYDC finalists met and

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MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

interacted with their cooperative’s employees while gaining a better understanding of the day-to-day operations of MMPA.

and former OYDC Jody Sharrard, and Michigan State University Extension Educator Martin Mangual—joined the OYDCs throughout the process.

“I see the OYDC program, as well as the Young Cooperator Conference, as the groundwork for networking with other members and MMPA employees to improve my leadership abilities and gain better understanding of the dairy business to advance my opportunity for future leadership within the co-op,” said Jeremy Beebe, OYDC finalist from Alger, Michigan.

The OYDC program is a leadership development program managed

by MMPA since 1950. Many who participate in the program go on to become MMPA leaders by serving on the Advisory or Resolutions committees, board of directors or local or district boards. For some members, the OYDC Conference is their first opportunity to learn about the inner workings of the co-op and how member pay prices are determined.

Hosting this year’s conference was the 2017 OYDC Nate and Jenny Elzinga.

The Elzingas guided the next class of OYDCs finalists through the process.

Three judges – MMPA District 5 Director Doug Chapin, MMPA member

“Participating in the OYDC program has given us a great picture of the ins and outs of MMPA,” said Nancy Pyle, OYDC finalist from Zeeland, Michigan.

« OYDC CONFERENCE ATTENDEES (L-R): JASON BUDNICK, AMY TOLAN-BUDNICK, NEIL AND KIMBERLY WEIDMAYER, NANCY AND PAUL PYLE, DEANNA AND JEREMY BEEBE, JENNY ELZINGA, ANDREW BROWN, NATE ELZINGA, QUINN SMITH, JODY SHARRARD, DOUG CHAPIN AND MARTIN MANGUAL.

2018 OUTSTANDING YOUNG DAIRY COOPERATORS FINALISTS

Rebecca Pirman

Skandia, MI Pirman Corner Dairy Farm U.P. West Central, District 4

Jason & Amy Budnick Ossineke, MI Risky Endeavor Dairy Hillman Local, District 4

Jeremy & Deanna Beebe Alger, MI Double B Dairy Sunrise Local, District 7

B.J. & Molly Pluger

McBain, MI Yonkman Dairy Evart Local, District 5

Rachel Foley

Millington, MI Rainbow Creek Farms Deford/Clifford-Mayville Local, District 7

Andrew Brown

Berlin Township, MI Brown Dairy Mid-Thumb Local, District 8

Paul & Nancy Pyle

Zeeland, MI Pyle Dairy Farm West Michigan Local, District 3

Quinn Smith & Lisa Plemmons

Homer, MI Smith Farms Hillsdale-Litchfield Local, District 1

Neil & Kimberly Weidmayer

Ann Arbor, MI Weidmayer Farms Saline-Ann Arbor Local, District 1

How do you become an OYDC? The Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator program begins with local nominations. Selection for the 2019 class of OYDCs will begin this December during Local meetings. OYDCs must be under 41 years of age and affiliated with a member farm. You do not have to be a voting member or ‘on the contract’ to be eligible.

Questions? Contact Jessica Welch at jwelch@mimilk.com or 248-474-6672.

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MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

Paul Werth’s daughter was just a few hours old when the phone rang.

As a part owner of Butterwerth Dairy in Alpena, Michigan, Paul farmed with his brother Jeremy and parents, Larry and Paulette.

The great joy of a new member of the family entering the world was interrupted with the news that Bovine Tuberculosis (TB) was found on the farm. Uncertainty hung over the Werths like a storm brewing on the horizon.

“It was definitely a day of mixed feelings that I won’t forget,” Paul said.

B

ovine TB hit Butterwerth Dairy Farm in April 2015.

Two years later, the farm was one of six Platinum Award of Achievement winners recognized nationally at the National Mastitis Council (NMC) annual meeting.

Battling Bovine TB The news of TB positive cows shook each of the Werth family members to their core. The Werth family had to decide what the plan for their dairy farm would be after about 15 percent of the dairy herd tested positive for bovine TB during routine annual testing conducted by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the USDA. Though most of the State of Michigan is TB-free, there is a small area in the Northern Lower Peninsula that is classified as Modified Accredited Zone or MAZ which means that cattle and bison herds in Montmorency, Alpena, Oscoda and Alcona counties must go through annual testing for TB. “Being told that we had cows with TB was devastating. It was such a shock to us because we felt like we followed the rules. We took precautions but didn’t realize how much it was in the wildlife population because it wasn’t really taught to the community,” said Jeremy.

After quarantining the farm, TB infected animals were removed from the herd along with follow-up retesting of the remaining animals.

After more animals were found positive with the infectious bacterial disease found in cattle herds and white-tailed deer populations in the MAZ, the Werth family along with the State Veterinarian made the decision that the best option was to depopulate the dairy herd. One of the reasons for the decision was that TB is spread through the exchange of respiratory secretions between infected animals and noninfected animals easily and the possibility of more cows contracting TB would be inevitable.

The depopulation of their herd took a month and a half as Larry, Jeremy and Paul along with their wives and children watched each cow they raised and cared for leave the farm.

They made the decision to not let this unforeseen occurrence deter them from doing what they loved: milking cows. After thoroughly cleaning the barns, equipment and implements, waiting the 30-day disinfection period, they were able to bring a new herd of cows home.

The Werths shared that through the depopulation process, many friends, neighbors and other farmers sent cards, called and offered encouragement to help them through the transition of starting over after depopulation. Fellow dairyman, many met through Jeremy’s service on the MMPA Advisory Committee, offered groups of some of their best heifers and young cows at fair prices to help get the Werths back in the parlor.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

19

A strictly Jersey herd before depopulation, when it came time to rebuild, the Werths decided to change breeds altogether. The Werths replaced their herd with Holstein cows as Jersey cows were not available.

“Switching to Holsteins from Jerseys was a learning curve. We also decided that purchasing fresh cows rather than springing heifers was worth the extra cost due to not having to worry about as many metabolic calving problems.

It seems to be less stress on the cows and us to bring them in after they have calved,” said Jeremy.

In addition to purchasing animals, many changes and biosecurity measures were made during the transition from the original herd of Jerseys to the purchased Holstein cows. They installed a deer fence around the perimeter of the farm to keep the white-tailed deer from having contact with the cows as well as sneaking into the feed storage areas.

They chose to implement the practice of selling all their calves around one week old and purchase fresh cows as needed rather than raise their own replacement heifers. This allowed them to focus their efforts on the milking cows and better manage their land base to prevent TB from entering the farm again.

“Through the whole process of dealing with our original herd being TB positive, a lot of people in our area have come to understand and realize that farmers are trying to do the right thing. Sportsman and farmers have started to really come together to work on trying to control this, which hadn’t happened before,” said Jeremy.

Jeremy continued to explain that one good thing to come out of this experience for the community was awareness to the extent of the TB problem in the MAZ. Sportsman, landowners and farmers are starting to

work together to minimize the effects that the contagious disease can cause to wildlife and cattle herds.

The Road to Platinum While Butterwerth Dairy before bovine TB cared about producing quality milk, the depopulation meant the Werths hit reset on their operation and came back as a nationally-recognized quality farm. The Werths were named a platinum National Dairy Quality award winner from NMC. The award program honors dairy producers from across the nation who have successfully placed high priority on producing milk of the highest quality.

By using the 60-day window without any cattle on the farm to reset and strategize, the family was able set goals and map out plans to hit the ground at full speed. The Werths attributed their achievment of success to focusing on udder health, consistency for the

WERTH FAMILY (L TO R): AMARA, JEREMY, KIERA, PAULETTE, LARRY, PARKER, PAUL, JENNIFER, PRIYA AND PAISLEY

20

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

“Listening and applying what is taught at the MMPA Milker Training School was a game changer for us.”

— JEREMY WERTH

cows and lots of open communication between everyone on the farm. They had a rolling herd average of 27,883, an average somatic cell count (SCC) of 76,000 and 1,000 average raw bacteria count in 2017 with a herd of 362 cows.

According to Paul and Jeremy, there are five main reasons for consistent quality on their farm: having a good team, following the milking procedure taught at the MMPA Milker Training School, maintaining equipment, having a good relationship with their veterinarian, having an effective vaccination program, and keeping freestalls and cows clean.

Six employees work alongside the family. The farm team meets once a month for a team meeting to discuss any issues that have come up, review quality from the previous month, and review procedures. They milk in a double 12 parallel swing parlor four times a day for their fresh and highrisk cows, and twice a day for the rest of the herd.

Monitoring parlor activity is very important to the Werths. “Doing what is best for the cows and not what is necessarily best for us is a big priority now,” said Jeremy. “Listening and applying what is taught at the MMPA Milker Training School was a game changer for us. We also work closely with our member representative to manage our quality. Since we don’t have automatic take-offs in our parlor, unit removal is extremely important along with a good post dip for teat end health.”

JEREMY WERTH DEMONSTRATES THE MILKING ROUTINE USED AT BUTTERWERTH DAIRY

Each milking employee duo sends a group text after each milking to the whole milking team including pertinent information such as any fresh cows, detected infections or any issues that they handled. This, shared Jeremy, makes sure that lines of communication are open, and errors are minimized. Paul added, “Prevention is better than reaction!”

While Butterwerth Dairy was forced to react to the positive TB herd results by ultimately depopulating the Jersey herd, they rebuilt their dairy farm with Holsteins once the farm was cleaned and disinfected. Prevention was key

to move past the unfortunate events.

More focus was put into excellent milk quality and minimizing the wildlife interactions with their farm.

The continued passion for the dairy industry that the family loved, hard work and a little bit of faith shone through as the Werth family not only persevered, but thrived, in the trying two years prior to earning their Platinum Award of Achievement.

As Jeremy said, “My brother and I work well together. We have many differences, but I think they complement each other to get the job done.”

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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MBIC IN ACTION

MBIC LAUNCHED A NEW WEBSITE There is now more continuity between the national site (Beefitswhatsfordinner.com) and the state website. Enjoy the fresh look with information on recipes, cooking, nutrition, raising beef, cattlemen’s corner and the state commission.

The search feature allows you to easily and quickly find whatever you may be looking for. Check out the new site today at www.mibeef.org and let us know what you think!

LAUNCHING MICHIGAN TEAM BEEF MBIC is excited to be kicking off Michigan Team BEEF; a committed community of runners and health enthusiasts who utilize the nutritional benefits of lean beef for high quality protein during training. This team will be advocates for the beef industry while being powered by beef and reaching new personal goals. Michigan Team BEEF will assist MBIC in promoting the nutritional and health benefits of beef to consumers. This is a key priority identified in the MBIC marketing plan and builds upon the 2016-2020 Beef Industry Long Range Plan strategic objective to increase the BEEF DEMAND Index measure by 2 percent annually. If you are interested in further details or applying to be a part of Michigan Team BEEF, visit www.mibeef.org.

THE COWBOY NINJA IS TAKING OVER Lance Pekus is a beef farmer in Salmon, ID who is competing in the American Ninja Warrior series. Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. has partnered with him to share beef and it’s benefit in building strength. Lance has been a great advocate for the industry and has worked with the checkoff to create material and be involved at various events across the country. The Cowboy Ninja debuted in the season trials on July 9, 2018 and there has been a reach of over a 4 million people through the website, social and videos to date.

REACHING HEALTH AND FITNESS ENTHUSIASTS MBIC attended the Sports and Fitness Expo on May 11th, 2018 at the 40th annual Fifth Third Bank River Bank Run in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The commission had over a thousand race participants and their families stop by the booth and learn about the benefits of beef for health and strength. Additionally, participants were given the opportunity to enter for an ultimate beef basket by liking the Facebook page.

DAIRY DAYS

HOSTS NEARLY 175 MICHIGAN YOUTH IN CONTEST EVENTS

A Mark Your Calendar!

The 2019 Michigan Dairy Expo will be held July 15-19 at MSU.

s the youth-centered portion of the Michigan Dairy Expo, the largest annual dairy event in the state, Michigan 4-H Youth Dairy Days is a program of MSU Extension.

It offers young people interested in the dairy industry opportunities to compete for premiums, ribbons and scholarships in various educational activities, including dairy quiz bowl, dairy management, dairy cattle judging competitions and the Dairy Days youth show. This year, nearly 175 youth from around the state participated in one or more of the educational competitions, and winners may go on to represent Michigan in national competitions.

Melissa Elischer, MSU Extension Michigan 4-H dairy youth educator and director of 4-H Youth Dairy Days, said that the weeklong educational event serves as the stage for showcasing some of the industry’s most talented and engaged young

people and who are already dairy industry leaders. She said youth must learn a number of skills and knowledge in the weeks and months leading up to the event.

“It requires a lot of commitment on the part of young people to prepare for Dairy Days,” said Elischer. “These youth spend many hours learning and practicing with their teams and coaches to prepare for Dairy Days.

Once here, youth then have to budget and prioritize their time to compete in back-to-back contests, often while being responsible for taking care of their show animals in the barn.”

The 2019 Michigan Dairy Expo is scheduled for July 15-19 at MSU. For more information about the Michigan 4-H dairy youth program, contact Melissa Elischer at 517-4324306. For more information about the Michigan Dairy Expo, contact Dr. Joe Domecq at 517-353-7855.

“It requires a lot of commitment on the part of young people to prepare for Dairy Days. These youth spend many hours learning and practicing with their teams and coaches to prepare for Dairy Days. Once here, youth then have to budget and prioritize their time to compete in back-to-back contests, often while being responsible for taking care of their show animals in the barn.”

— MELISSA ELISCHER, DIRECTOR, 4-H YOUTH DAIRY DAYS

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MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

2018 DAIRY DAYS CONTEST RESULTS

DAIRY MANAGEMENT CONTEST RESULTS The dairy management contest is a practical, hands-on competition that tests contestants’ dairy knowledge.

NOVICE DIVISION, INDIVIDUAL RANKINGS JADYN HERZOG, MECOSTA COUNTY MEGAN WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY KADEN PETROSHUS, ALLEGAN COUNTY ROSS KELSEY, ISABELLA COUNTY KELSEY GRUNER, BRANCH COUNTY ABIGAIL LEHMAN, SHIAWASSEE COUNTY JOSHUA (JD) MILLER, CLINTON COUNTY SEBASTIAN BRENNEMAN, BRANCH COUNTY COLBY TUCKER, ALLEGAN COUNTY ELI DETERS, NEWAYGO COUNTY

JUNIOR DIVISION, INDIVIDUAL RANKING CALEB TUCKER, ALLEGAN COUNTY TRISTAN VANDENBERG, ALLEGAN COUNTY ABIGAIL WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY MATTHEW WHITAKER, CLINTON COUNTY ISABELLA NELKIE, IOSCO COUNTY EMMA FOX, CLINTON COUNTY IRENE NIELSON, INGHAM COUNTY CLAYTON WESTON, HILLSDALE COUNTY GERL PISH, BRANCH COUNTY EMILY WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY

SENIOR DIVISION, INDIVIDUAL RANKINGS JONAH HASKINS, LAPEER COUNTY SHANNON GOOD, KENT COUNTY JESSICA (JESSIE) NASH, CLINTON CO. MIRIAM COOK, CLINTON COUNTY KATIE WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY MADELYN GRACE CHISLEY, SHIAWASSEE COUNTY JOSHUA TRIPP, OTTAWA COUNTY HAYLEY WINELAND, BRANCH COUNTY DREW NEYER, ISABELLA COUNTY ADALEE THELEN, CLINTON COUNTY

QUIZ BOWL CONTEST RESULTS The Michigan Youth Dairy days dairy quiz bowl competition tests the dairy knowledge of youth teams, who are awarded points for correctly answered questions.

DAIRY JUDGING CONTEST RESULTS NOVICE DIVISION, INDIVIDUAL RANKINGS KAMRYN ATHERTON, SHIAWASSEE COUNTY KADEN PETROSHUS, ALLEGAN COUNTY

NOVICE DIVISION, TEAM RANKINGS

KELSEY GRUNER, BRANCH COUNTY

CLINTON COUNTY: CLARISSA BAESE OF ELSIE, HARRIS EVANS AND THOMAS (TOM) HICKS OF ST. JOHNS, AND ETHAN HUMPHREY OF FOWLER.

JADYN HERZOG, ISABELLA COUNTY

ISABELLA AND WASHTENAW COUNTIES: HARPER JANE ADKINS FROM SALINE, ELI DETERS OF FREMONT, JADYN HERZOG OF PARIS, AND MEGAN WILSON OF BLANCHARD.

LANE GUOAN, IOSCO COUNTY

ALLEGAN COUNTY: ALLIE COFFEY FROM ALLEGAN, JOHN GEERLINGS OF HAMILTON, AND COLBY TUCKER OF HOPKINS.

JUNIOR DIVISION, INDIVIDUAL OVERALL RANKINGS

BRANCH AND CLINTON COUNTIES: SEBASTIAN BRENNEMAN AND KELSEY GRUNER OF COLDWATER AND JOSHUA (JD) MILLER OF ELSIE OTTAWA COUNTY: KYLE KILLEBREW FROM ALLENDALE, MYKKA LEBRON AND CADENCE NAGELKIRK OF ZEELAND, AND LILIAN ROOF FROM HUDSONVILLE.

JUNIOR DIVISION, TEAM RANKINGS ALLEGAN COUNTY: ANNA AND SAM GEERLINGS OF HAMILTON, CALEB TUCKER FROM HOPKINS, AND TRISTAN VANDENBERG OF PLAINWELL.

ELI DETERS, NEWAYGO COUNTY

The Overall Dairy Days High Rank Award is given to the contestant who accumulates the highest total rankings in three of four contest categories: dairy management, dairy cattle judging, dairy quiz bowl and showmanship. The senior division is open to youth ages 15 to 19, while the youth aged 9 to 14 compete in the junior division.

GABRIELLA NELKIE, IOSCO COUNTY HARRIS EVANS, CLINTON COUNTY

MEGAN WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY ROSS KELSEY, ISABELLA COUNTY

OVERALL HIGH RANKING JUNIOR IRENE NIELSON, INGHAM COUNTY

RESERVE JUNIOR KEAGAN LONG, INGHAM COUNTY

KEAGAN LONG, INGHAM COUNTY IRENE NIELSEN, INGHAM COUNTY

OVERALL HIGH RANKING SENIOR SHANNON GOOD, KENT COUNTY

RESERVE SENIOR DREW NEYER, ISABELLA COUNTY

EMILY WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY HOPE SHILLING, BRANCH COUNTY JACOB BUNN, WASHTENAW COUNTY ISABELLA NELKIE, IOSCO COUNTY GAVIN CLARK, IOSCO COUNTY MATTHEW WHITAKER, CLINTON COUNTY OLIVIA BLACK, CLINTON COUNTY MAX HUGHES, BRANCH COUNTY

SENIOR DIVISION, TOP 10 INDIVIDUALS

BRANCH COUNTY: MALLORIE BRENNEMAN FROM COLDWATER, MAX HUGHES FROM JONESVILLE, GERL PISH OF QUINCY, AND HOPE SHILLING FROM READING.

DREW NEYER, ISABELLA COUNTY

HILLSDALE COUNTY: TEAGAN HOWELL FROM JEROME, LEVI POLING OF ADDISON, AND CLAYTON WESTON FROM CONCORD.

JESSICA PARISH, KENT COUNTY

ISABELLA COUNTY: KENZIE BRADLEY AND ABIGAIL AND EMILY WILSON OF BLANCHARD AND LYDIA DETERS OF FREMONT.

ANN MOSER, INGHAM COUNTY

CLINTON COUNTY TEAM C: JOSEPH DOMECQ OF RIVES JUNCTION, NATHAN HALFMANN OF ST. JOHNS, SAM MEYER FROM IONIA, AND MATTHEW WHITAKER OF ELSIE.

OVERALL DAIRY DAY HIGH RANK AWARDS

MARY HARTMANN, GENESEE COUNTY IAN BLACK, CLINTON COUNTY MIRIAM COOK, CLINTON COUNTY

HIGH RANKING SENIOR, SHANNON GOOD, KENT COUNTY, AND RESERVE SENIOR, DREW NEYER, ISABELLA COUNTY.

ADALEE THELEN, CLINTON COUNTY MADISON HALFMAN, CLINTON COUNTY

JOSHUA TRIPP, OTTAWA COUNTY CARMEN KINCAID, SANILAC COUNTY

SHOWMANSHIP CONTEST RESULTS DIVISION 1: MIRIAM COOK, CLINTON COUNTY

SENIOR DIVISION, TEAM RANKINGS CLINTON COUNTY: MIRIAM COOK OF PEWAMO, AMANDA HICKS OF ST. JOHNS, JESSICA NASH OF ELSIE, AND KYLE SCHAFER OF WESTPHALIA. ALLEGAN COUNTY: OLIVIA COFFEY FROM ALLEGAN, SHANNON GOOD AND ANNA WEHLER FROM CALEDONIA, AND CASEY YBEMA FROM HOPKINS. BRANCH COUNTY: MARIAH JANSEN OF STURGIS, KAYLEE KRISER FROM QUINCY, JENNIFER VANLIEU OF READING, AND HAYLEY WINELAND FROM COLDWATER. SHIAWASSEE COUNTY: MADELYN GRACE CHISLEY, MARC AND PAUL HENDZEL, AND JAMES PLACE, ALL FROM PERRY. OTTAWA COUNTY: CHELSEA BARNES AND ASHTON GEURINK, OF ZEELAND; JOSHUA TRIPP FROM DORR, AND JACOB VANDERMOLEN FROM ALLENDALE.

DIVISION 2: ASHTON GEURINK, OTTAWA COUNTY

DIVISION 3: SHANNON GOOD, KENT COUNTY

DIVISION 4:

RESERVE JUNIOR KEAGAN LONG, INGHAM COUNTY, AND HIGH RANKING JUNIOR, IRENE NIELSON, INGHAM COUNTY.

ANNA MOSER, INGHAM COUNTY

DIVISION 5: STONEY BUELL, MONROE COUNTY

DIVISION 6: KEAGAN LONG, INGHAM COUNTY

DIVISION 7: QUINN WATTS, CLINTON COUNTY

DIVISION 8: WILLOW EVANS, CLINTON COUNTY

DIVISION 9: KADEN PETROSHUS, ALLEGAN COUNTY

DIVISION 10: KAMRYN ATHERTON, SHIAWASSEE COUNTY

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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GREAT DAIRY ADVENTURE A HUGE SUCCESS On Wednesday, July 18, over 3,700 people gathered to experience the Great Dairy Adventure, where the dairy community brought components from dairy farms to the Michigan State University Pavilion in East Lansing. At the event, attendees were able to pet calves, milk a cow, learn that cows eat a diet balanced by dairy nutritionists, enjoy dairy treats and learn about the steps milk takes on its journey from cow to grocery store to the family table.

MMPA MEMBER RAMONA OKKEMA VOLUNTEERED DURING THE GREAT DAIRY ADVENTURE AND HUNG OUT WITH SPARTY, THE MSU MASCOT, BY DAISY THE COW.

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MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

YOUNG ATTENDEES HELP COLOR AN UNDENIABLY DAIRY MURAL.

FAITH CULLENS, MSU EXTENSION EDUCATOR, TAUGHT KIDS WHAT COWS EAT.

THE MMPA STATION FEATURED COLORING AND CRAFTS.

MMPA STAFF AND MEMBER VOLUNTEERS AT THE GREAT DAIRY ADVENTURE INCLUDED (L-R): KENDRA KISSANE, LAUREN HEBERLING, ANNE DRAKOS, SUE MCCONNEL, DEB GINGRICH, KELLIE RIZZOLO, KRISTA SCHROCK, RAMONA OKKEMA, ALLISON STUBY MILLER, SARAH MICHALEK, BRIDGET MOORE, KATIE PIERSON, JESSICA WELCH AND JOHN LEHMAN.

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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MICHIGAN LIVESTOCK EXPO

SALE-ABRATION RAISES $34,000 FOR SCHOLARSHIPS AT 10TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT

A

Red and White Holstein cow exhibited by Kieran Hartnagle, of Gratiot County, was selected as the Supreme Champion Dairy Cow and a heifer owned by Ashton Geurink, of Ottawa County, was chosen as the Supreme Champion Dairy Heifer at the Michigan 4-H Youth Dairy Days dairy cattle show held July 18 at Michigan State University (MSU) in East Lansing.

Along with Supreme Champion Dairy Heifer exhibitor Ashton Geurink, and Supreme Dairy Showmanship winner Anna Moser, Hartnagle represented the Michigan dairy industry at the annual Michigan Livestock Expo ‘Saleabration’ auction held the evening of the show. Champion animals selected the previous weekend at the Michigan Livestock Expo were also sold at the ‘Sale-abration’ auction.

However, unlike the livestock buyers

who purchase the animals, the dairy champion buyers receive dairy product gift baskets instead. This year’s dairy gift baskets sold for a total of $34,000.

A majority of the funds generated from the sale of the dairy lots goes into a statewide dairy youth fund of the Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund. The dairy portion of the fund supports dairy youth programs through educational grants and scholarships. The youth members who exhibited the winning animals or earned the champion showmanship award receive $1,000 each.

The dairy cattle show is one of several youth-centered activities held annually during the week-long Michigan Dairy Expo, the state’s largest dairy event.

DAIRY LOTS AT THE 2018 LIVESTOCK SALE-ABRATION SUPREME CHAMPION DAIRY COW Dairy gift basket representing cow Exhibitor: Kieran Hartnagle, Wheeler, Mich.

Price: $12,000 Buyer(s): The Kroger Company of Michigan, CoBank, Zeeland Farm Services, Inc., MooVille Creamery, Dairy Farmers of America.

SUPREME CHAMPION DAIRY SHOWPERSON Dairy gift basket in honor of Showperson: Anna Moser, Dansville, Mich.

Price: $8,500 Buyer(s): Michigan Milk Producers Association, MMPA Employees, Hudson Dairy, NorthStar Cooperative, Inc., Caledonia Farmers Elevator, United Dairy Industry of Michigan, Vita Plus, Ken and Liz Nobis.

SUPREME CHAMPION DAIRY HEIFER Dairy gift basket representing heifer Exhibitor: Ashton Geurink, Zeeland, Mich.

Price: $10,000 Buyer(s): Michigan Milk Producers Association and Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, P.C.

GRAND CHAMPION CHEESE Exhibitor winner of the Michigan Livestock Expo Grand Champion Cheese contest: MSU Dairy Plant, East Lansing, Mich.

Price: $3,500

THE SUPREME CHAMPION DAIRY COW WAS SOLD FOR $12,000. PICTURED (L-R): MIRIAM COOK, DAIRY AMBASSADOR; HAILEY SHARRARD, DAIRY AMBASSADOR; CHUCK COURTADE, DFA; KEN NOBIS, MMPA; AND KIERAN HARTNAGLE.

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MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

Buyer(s): Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, P.C. and United Dairy Industry of Michigan.

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

Promoting Milk Across Michigan Sports Fields

T

hrough partnerships with sports teams across the state, the United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) has helped tens of thousands of consumers make a connection between the delicious dairy foods they eat and dairy farm families – the people behind some of their favorite foods.

Over the summer, dairy farm families were featured during games of the Great Lakes Loons, the West Michigan Whitecaps, the Detroit Tigers and amateur and semi-professional soccer teams from the Premier Development League, the National Premier Soccer League and the Michigan Premier Soccer League.

At the games, farm families are welcomed onto the field and shared a part of their dairy story through videos, announcer scripts and in-stadium interviews.

As part of a new partnership with the Great Lakes Loons, the team’s videographer visited a few dairy farms prior to the families’ appearance and created videos of the farm and families.

These videos were played on the jumbotron, and attendees were able to have a quick virtual tour of the farms, get to know the farm families and see how milk gets to their table.

In addition to sharing a portion of their stories, the farm families are often invited to throw the first pitch, participate in on-field activities, including kids’ activities, and are interviewed during the game. These opportunities give the game attendees more exposure to build a connection between dairy farmers and dairy foods.

In addition to connecting with dairy farm families, UDIM’s partnerships with sports teams also provides the opportunity for dairy nutrition messaging to reach tens of thousands of people. During a Detroit Tigers game, 22,000 fans saw the Undeniably Dairy spot “Dairy, Dairy, Dairy” on the big screen, reminding them of all the reasons they love dairy. At the Whitecaps games, UDIM tested a new promotion called “Broken Bat for Milk.” Every time the away team broke a bat

THE HOOD FAMILY FROM PAW PAW REPRESENTED MICHIGAN’S DAIRY FARMERS AT A DETROIT TIGERS GAME

during a game, the announcer read, “Drink milk to build strong bones and prevent breaks like that bat just experienced. The Whitecaps will make a $50 donation to Feeding America for that broken bat to help kids get the milk they need.”

After many of these games, UDIM provided dairy treats for attendees to enjoy on their way home, including milk and cookies, chocolate milk and ice cream sandwiches.

In addition to Major and Minor League Ballparks, UDIM was also present on the soccer field this summer. Again this year, UDIM was a sponsor of the Michigan Milk Cup. Many members of the dairy community were featured at soccer games with on-field recognition and articles that were shared on the Milk Cup website about local farmers. Chocolate milk was provided to players after their matches to refuel their bodies to get ready for their next games.

To learn more about these partnerships, contact Jolene Griffin at Jolene@MilkMeansMore.org.

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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POLICIES

Drug Residue Policy

MMPA Milk Quality Policy

MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED

MILK ON FARM – QUALITY QUESTIONABLE

MILK SHIPPED – REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT

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

When a member suspects that the milk in

IF a load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant

1 Call a MMPA member representative to have the milk in the tank tested.

should call a MMPA member representative

A “hold” must be placed on the tank contents until the test results are known.

dumped. If the member dumps the milk on

OR 2 The MMPA 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.

MILK SHIPPED — POSITIVE DRUGS CONFIRMED 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.

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

ALL POSITIVE DRUG RESIDUE SHIPMENTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE ENFORCEMENT AGENCY. 30

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

the farm bulk tank is of poor quality they who will authorize milk in the tank to be their own, they must be sure to take the stick reading and record the number of pounds of milk, and report the information to the member representative.

If the milk is dumped, the member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* In order to receive payment for an added water voluntary dump, the member must install a Swingline Safety Switch.

The Swingline Safety Switch can be ordered from the Mt. Pleasant warehouse.

The MMPA member representative will verify the switch has been installed.

Reimbursement for the Swingline Safety Switch and the voluntary dump will then be made to the member.

The member assumes all liability for losses incurred as a result of shipping poor quality or contaminated milk.

MILK SHIPPED – HIGH BACTERIA COUNT IF a load of milk is received (unloaded) at a dairy processing plant AND IF a sample from the load has a bacteria count of 300,000 or more AND IF 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.

AND IF 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 IF 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.

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.

MILK HAULERS A hauler whose entire load sample exceeds 300,000 cfu 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 cfu per mL.

TEMPERATURE BULK TANK FARMS A hauler will be responsible for all costs incurred by MMPA for loads rejected for temperature.

DIRECT LOAD FARMS A hauler will be responsible for the freight and disposal charges for all loads of milk rejected for temperature. If farm conditions indicate an on-farm cause for the load to be warm, the member will be responsible for the loss of milk value. In the case where a member cannot be shown as the cause of the rejected load for temperature, the hauler will be responsible for the freight, disposal charges, and loss in milk value.

QUALITY PREMIUMS

MMPA Quality Premium Program

MMPA Member Testing Fees

SOMATIC CELL COUNT (SCC) PREMIUMS AND DEDUCTIONS

Payment for testing will be made through

Somatic Cell Count premiums and deductions

All costs are listed per individual sample.

(in addition to Federal Order SCC Adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels:

an automatic milk check deduction.

COW TESTS: $1 Cow samples may be tested for:

50,000 or below...................................... +55¢/cwt.

• Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae

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

• Strep non ag

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

• Staphylococcus aureus

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.

• 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

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

All costs are listed per individual sample.

• 10,000 Raw Bacteria Count • 20,000 Pre-Incubated (PI) Count

__________________________

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea

There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for:

- ELISA..................................................................... $6

• Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count

• Johne’s Milk Test

A high raw count deduction will be waived if the

- PCR......................................................................$40

- ELISA – cows...................................................... $6

- ELISA – tank..................................................... $10

To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month:

• Bovine Leukosis Test

• Positive drug residue

- ELISA – tank..................................................... $10

• High load count shipment or rejected load shipment

__________________________

• Bacteriology Cultures – includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility....................................$16

- PCR......................................................................$40

• Abnormal freeze points

__________________________

Member name:

previous three months for raw bacteria count.

Loc/Hlr/Producer #

• Mycoplasma Cultures...................................... $14

producer has received the quality premium the

Refer to fee schedule above for current pricing.

The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer.

Sample Date: ADDITIONAL TESTS AVAILABLE:

A payment of 5¢/cwt. will be added for each of the following, if the count is equal to or below:

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

through your MMPA member representative.

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

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

NORTHSTAR MI LABORATORIES

- ELISA – cows...................................................... $6

• Milk Pregnancy ELISA................................ $4.50

__________________________ Sample ID: __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

n BLV ELISA n Johne’s ELISA

• Raw Bacteria count over 100,000

LAB TEST RESULTS BY MAIL – $2/MONTH

The count levels for raw and PI will be determined

All tests must be scheduled through your

n Johne’s PCR

on one test run per month.

MMPA member representative or the

• #3 or #4 sediment

laboratory for proper sample submission

To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month

n Pregnancy

protocol. Lab form provided below for your convenience.

If you would like lab test cards EU SCC REQUIREMENT All MMPA member milk must meet the

provided to you, please contact

requirements of European Union certification

the MMPA laboratory in Novi

for SCC which is an average of 400,000 or

at 800-572-5824.

less calculated by a rolling geometric mean.

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

31

FREELINERS & CLASSIFIEDS

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

DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC:

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

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.

A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/ texturing provides high quality

CLASSIFIEDS

traction in new & old concrete, fast

OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can fix your scabbled floors. Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking

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

of concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving Inc., Portland.

Call 517-647-7381.

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 &

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

private farms. Contact us anytime day or night. Spring special 2000 gal. Muellers for $13,900 & up. 2700 & 4000 gal.

Muellers call for quote. Call 800-558-0112.

www.tristatescabbling.com.

FREELINERS Bulls Service age Holstein bulls. Call Steve Alexander, 810-622-8548 evenings or 810-404-8548.

LEGENDAIRY.

Equipment

No bull.

5032 Kuhn-Knight Vertical Mixer with scales & discharge auger. $6,000. 231-

Co-Products Menu

867-2004.

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!

JD 1600 Haybine 14” Hydra-swing nearly new knives and guards, $2,500 OBO. 231-301-0347.

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 | SEPTEMBER 2018

MERCHANDISE

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

ALFALFA 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. Call Gibson Hoof Care (Tom) at 989-239-6843.

FOR SALE: CORN SILAGE AND

Special Orders Many of you know our merchandise department as a supplier of CIP cleaners, teat dips, inflations, towels, calf feed and many other commonly used items.

What you may not know however, is that we are able to order many specialty parts as well. We work with several well-known vendors such as Coburn, Schlueter, Udder Tech and E-Zee Milking as well as Nelson-Jameson. This allows us access to a wide selection of replacement parts and other needed items. Items such as, milking claw parts, pulsator rebuild kits, milk pump rebuild kits, milking buckets and vacuum hoses can be ordered through the merchandise warehouse.

While most of these companies do not sell to individuals they do have online catalogs that can help determine what parts are needed. Once you have decided on the item you would like, you can simply call the warehouse with the part number and quantity and we will place the order. Listed below are websites for some of these companies, look at what they have to offer, you may be surprised by the selections available.

BEET PULP. Stored under two layers of plastic with tire sidewalls touching each other. Aron Whitaker, Elsie, MI. Call 989-666-6565.

PROFESSIONAL AGENTS, PROVIDING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES. Insuring all types of

» Coburn coburn.com

» E-Zee Milking ezmilking.com

» Schlueter schlueterco.com

» Nelson-Jameson nelsonjameson.com

» Udder Tech uddertechinc.com

farms and orchards. Health/Life/ Home/Auto and Small Business coverage. Legacy planning and Wealth Management Services also available. Call today, 269-506-2057.

Licensed in MI and IN. BARN WHITE WASHING AND CLEANING WITH HIGH PRESSURE AIR. Serving all Michigan and Indiana. Miller Spray Service, Inc. Call 574-825-9776.

FOR SALE: Hydro Flex Head John

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

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

24-Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026 Service Message Center: 1-800-392-3392

Deere 25 ft. Head & Cart $17,500.

Service Representatives:

Metal Green Chop Wagon$1,580.

» Ben Johnson 810-824-0636 26959 Rosanna Court South Bend, IN 46619

FP 240 New Holland Chopper with 2-row corn head & hay head $15,500. 1 Heaston Chopper Box $3,000. 2 Meyer Chopper Boxes $6,000 and $4,000. 18 ft. Victor Chopper Box $6,000 like new. 1 IHC grain drill 5300 & packer $4,000.

Wilson Hopper Bottom Alum. 616754-9404.

THREE WAYS TO ORDER YOUR MMPA MERCHANDISE

ECOLAB

» Pat Mitchell 517-403-0928 7273 N. Rollin Highway Addison, MI 49220 » Jason Wolfe 540-553-5755 1890 Canter Drive Riner, VA 24149

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

Duane Farmer, Supervisor 989-317-8370

Toll Free: 877-367-6455

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

3. Fax in your order: MMPA Merchandise fax 989-317-8372

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

33

MARKET REPORT

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

Cheese 1.4868 / LB

|

FOR MILK MARKETED IN JULY 2018 Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33

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

482,426,321

501,016,796

-3.71

Total Class 2 Sales

286,831,987

259,562,301

+10.51

Total Class 3 Sales

649,420,996

661,417,169

-1.81

Total Class 4 Sales

245,980,201

289,917,093

-15.15

1,664,659,505

1,711,913,359

-2.76

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

29.0%

29.3%

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers...............................................................................4,479 Avg. Daily Production per farm....................................................11,989 Avg. Protein Test...........................................................................2.99%

Butter 2.2596 / LB

Avg. Butterfat Test.........................................................................3.68% Avg. Oth Solids Test......................................................................5.77% Avg. SCC - MMPA......................................................................188,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb.......................................................................... $1.4827

Milk Powders

Other Solids Price /lb................................................................. $0.1422

Nonfat Dry Milk

Class III Price @ 3.5%.................................................................... $14.10

0.7824 / LB

Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt..................................................... $0.92

Dry Whey

Uniform Price @ 3.5%................................................................... $15.02

0.3372 / LB

SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000..................................................... $0.00074

National Trends* (production in millions of pounds)

*For 23 States 34

Butterfat Price /lb....................................................................... $2.5287

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2018

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

2018

3,288 2,618 1,284 1,308 1,100 954 902 838 700 579 468 350 17,299 120,819

2017

3,372 2,588 1,276 1,298 1,025 963 908 840 706 569 469 350 16,947 119,356

% Change

-2.5 +1.2 +0.6 +0.8 +7.3 -0.9 -0.7 -0.2 -0.8 +1.8 -0.2 +0.0 +2.1 +1.2

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

South Area Supervisor Dave Brady, Grass Lake......................................517-937-9061 Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers....................................269-967-7351 Brittni Tucker, Wyoming....................................248-880-3785 Steve Post, White Pigeon...................................248-938-1555

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

Officers

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

Kris Wardin, Vice President

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

Joe Diglio, GM / Secretary

Management Information Systems Andrew Caldwell.....................................................ext. 304 Sales James Feeney.......................................................... ext. 258

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

Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453

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

Carlton Evans, Litchfield 517-398-0629

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

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

Merchandise - Mt. Pleasant

Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor Katie Pierson.....................................................989-289-9686

Directors-At-Large

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

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

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

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

Kris Wardin, St. Johns 989-640-9420

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

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

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

Josep Barenys, Asst. Treasurer

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

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

MMPA Labs

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

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

Other Member Services

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

Ken Nobis, President

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

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

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

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.

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

SEPTEMBER 2018 | MESSENGER

35

P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376

Thank you dairy buyers at the 10th Annual

MICHIGAN LIVESTOCK EXPO

SALE-ABRATION SUPREME CHAMPION DAIRY HEIFER

SUPREME CHAMPION DAIRY COW

Ashton Geurink, Zeeland, Mich.

Kieran Hartnagle, Wheeler, Mich.

SUPREME CHAMPION DAIRY SHOWPERSON

SUPREME CHAMPION CHEESE MSU Dairy Plant, East Lansing, Mich.

Anna Moser, Dansville, Mich.

2018 DAIRY BUYERS Supporters of Michigan Dairy Youth raised $34,000 at the Michigan Livestock Expo Sale-abration on July 17, 2018. The money raised will be used to provide scholarships and support dairy youth activities such as the Michigan Dairy Expo and other dairy youth education programs.

Caledonia Farmers Elevator Cobank Dairy Farmers of America Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, P.C. Hudson Dairy Ken and Liz Nobis Michigan Milk Producers Association

MMPA Employees Mooville Creamery NorthStar Cooperative, Inc. The Kroger Company of Michigan United Dairy Industry of Michigan Vita Plus Zeeland Farm Services, Inc.