Michigan Milk Messenger: July 2012

July 2012 Volume 95 Issue 1

Out of the Ashes­—MMPA members rebuild after fire

Michigan Milk Messenger 1

2 July 2012

July 2012

18

Contents

Volume 95 Issue 1 www.mimilk.com

Features

20

9

Dairy Tops the Growing Ag Sector

10 Congressman Upton Tours MMPA Constantine Plant 11 The Sharrards Travel to Washington, D.C. 12 Out of the Ashes

11

15 33rd Annual Ag Expo 16 Passion for Dairy Management: MSU Food Systems

Fellowship Intern 18 Members First: Christy Dinsmoore named Michigan’s Dairy

Field Person of the Year 20 Quality is a Team Effort: Patti Huttula – 2012 Michigan

Dairy Industry Service Award Recipient 22 Michigan Youth Dairy Days and Michigan Dairy

Expo 24 More than 1,200 people “Move It” at Dairy Day at the

Capitol Event 26 Dairy Partners with Michigan Governor Snyder’s

Wellness Initiatives

Departments

MMPA Matters................................................ 5 Quality Watch.................................................. 6 News & Views.................................................. 8 Legislative Watch............................................ 10 Merchandise Memo........................................ 28 Freeliners........................................................ 30 Classifieds...................................................... 32 Policies........................................................... 33 Market Report................................................ 34 MMPA Lab Lines........................................... 35 MMPA Staff ................................................... 35

Managing Editor...................... Sheila Burkhardt Editors........................................... Laura Moser

............................................... Alex Henry Advertising Manager.............. Nancy Muszynski Circulation............................................... 4,200 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 St. P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376-8002

Telephone: 248-474-6672 FAX: 248-474-0924 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)

PB July 2012

November 2009 Volume 92 Issue 5

June 2012 July 2012 Volume 94 Issue 12 Volume 95 Issue 1

On the Cover

MMPA members Diane and Steve Foley rebuild with new technology after a barn fire. See page 12.

Out of the Ashes—MMPA members rebuild after fire

Michigan Milk Messenger 1

Michigan Milk Messenger 3

Michigan Milk Producers Association

Michigan Milk Producers Association, established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 2,200 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

Board of Directors

Officers President: Ken Nobis Vice President: Bob Kran Treasurer: Mark Halbert General Manager/Secretary: Clay Galarneau Ass’t. Treasurer: Joe Diglio General Counsel: David VanderHaagen

Mission Statement

“To market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.”

Directors-At-Large Ken Nobis, St. Johns .........................989-224-6170

or 248-474-6672, ext. 201 Rodney Daniels, Whittemore.............989-756-4935 Mark Halbert, Battle Creek................269-964-0511 District Directors 1. Hank Choate, Cement City...........517-529-9032 2. Tim Hood, Paw Paw....................269-657-5771 4. Dan Javor, Hastings......................269-948-8345 5. Brent Wilson, Carson City............989-584-3481 6. Brad Ritter, Byron........................810-266-4091 7. James Reid, Jeddo........................810-327-6830 8. Leonard Brown, Sandusky............810-648-4505 10. Eric Frahm, Frankenmuth............989-652-3552 11. Bob Kran, Free Soil......................231-464-5889 12. John Kronemeyer, Pickford..........906-647-7638

Advisory Committee District One Brad Hart, Clayton Perry Cisco, Hudson Carlton Evans, Litchfield Glenn Preston, Quincy

517-445-2649 517-547-3231 517-398-0629 517-639-4182

District Six John Hufnagel, Westphalia Anthony Jandernoa, St. Johns Aaron Gasper, Lowell David Reed, Owosso

989-640-1394 989-593-2224 616-897-2747 989-723-8635

District Two Donald Bever, Delton Francis Burr, Mendon Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN Susan Troyer, Goshen, IN

269-671-5050 269-778-3552 574-825-5198 574-533-4506

District Four David Bivens, Bellevue Jeff Butler, Nashville Mark Crandall, Battle Creek David Lott, Mason

269-758-3980 517-852-1859 269-660-2229 517-676-4593

District Five Tom Jeppesen, Stanton Bill Jernstadt, Big Rapids Robert Lee, Marion Mike Rasmussen, Edmore

4 July 2012

989-762-5399 231-796-4650 231-743-6794 989-762-5380

District Ten John Bennett, Prescott Rod Fowler, Chesaning Scott Kleinhardt, Clare Ken Daniels, Sterling

989-345-4264 989-845-6131 989-386-8037 989-654-2546

District Eleven District Seven Bill Blumerich, Berlin Pat Bolday, Emmett Scott Lamb, Jeddo Chuck White, Fowlerville

810-395-2926 810-395-7139 810-327-6135 517-521-3564

District Eight Mike Bender, Croswell 810-679-4782 Tim Kubacki, Sebewaing 989-883-3249 Dale Phillips, Marlette 989-635-7917 Steve Schulte, Harbor Beach 989-479-9339

Jim Good, Caledonia Frank Konkel, Hesperia David Pyle, Zeeland Bill Stakenas, Free Soil

616-891-1414 231-854-8041 616-772-1512 231-757-9340

District Twelve Robert Barron, Gladstone Ron Lucas, Posen Corby Werth, Alpena Jeremy Werth, Alpena

906-786-7027 989-379-4694 989-379-3772 989-464-4022

MMPA Matters

By Ken Nobis President

The Many Roles of NMPF

T

hough it sometimes seems, especially in a Farm Bill year, that the role of National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) is all about political issues, politics is just one of the many areas where NMPF has an impact. NMPF focuses a constant eye on regulatory, retail and trade issues. Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) and more recently the Real Seal program are also managed by NMPF. MMPA is a long-time member of NMPF, and I currently serve as First Vice President of the Federation. At the June meeting of the board of directors, many issues that face the industry were addressed.

Export assistance is an important issue in today’s economy. CWT is helping the U.S. dairy industry market globally and become a more reliable supplier for the global dairy consumer. In 2011 cheese was the only product supported by CWT, but the list has been expanded in 2012 to include butter, whole milk powder and anhydrous milk fat. MMPA has participated as a result of the addition of butter, and the expanded product list has led to nine co-ops now utilizing CWT.

In the area of regulatory issues, the board was reminded that NMPF is closely monitoring the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug residue survey process that is currently underway. The survey, running a little behind schedule, may not be completed by year end. We have not heard of drug residues in milk from any sources.

The National Air Emissions Monitoring Study (NAEMS), funded by the Dairy Check-off to the tune of $6 million, is still working through the system. The study was

necessary because the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was in the process of regulating the animal industry using available science on air emissions from livestock operations, and the science was scant and very outdated. Because EPA had no funds available to conduct the necessary research, the dairy industry (similar to other classes of livestock) was allowed to fund the study with Check-Off dollars. The data gathering has been completed, and the EPA is interpreting the data to formulate air emission rules for the dairy industry. Serious issues exist regarding EPA’s use of the data base and its discounting of some data. Many scientists, including Dr. Jamie Jonker at NMPF, believe the disregarded data is quality data that should be included in the study. It is doubtful now that the regulatory guidelines will be in effect in 2013 as scheduled.

The most contentious issue discussed at the June meeting was tail docking. I realize this is a contentious issue within our MMPA membership as well. Some people accept tail docking while others find it repugnant. Probably everybody doesn’t like the idea of others telling us how to manage our cows. The NMPF position has been to not recommend tail docking and to encourage switch trimming. Until recently, NMPF’s position mirrored that of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP). The AVMA and the AABP have changed their positions from “not recommend” to “oppose,” opening the door for buyers of our milk to challenge NMPF’s position. California dairy

producers on the NMPF Board explained how they went through this three years ago and decided it wasn’t an issue they could fight and win. They report that switch trimming, though not ideal, does work. NMPF Board members tabled the issue until they consult with their respective boards. The NMPF Board will decide the issue later this month, and I expect that the result will be to oppose tail docking.

Passage of the 2012 Farm Bill is a legislative issue that NMPF has been working on for some time. The Bill passed in the U.S. Senate late last month and moved to the House of Representatives. The optimistic viewpoint of Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow, Democrat from Michigan, and Ranking Member Pat Roberts, Republican from Kansas, that they could pass the Bill out of the Senate has been proven correct. They have been resolute in their opinion that a Farm Bill needs to be enacted sooner rather than later. I have visited with several committee chairs in the House of Representatives who agree.

I think that in spite of the gridlock we witness day after day in our nation’s Capitol, we will see this happen this year.

With all that is going on in the dairy industry, the June meeting was a busy one. Witnessing the diverse interests of the dairy industry working together for the common good is very encouraging for the future direction of the industry.

Michigan Milk Messenger 5

Quality Watch

By Dean LetterLetter

By Dean MMPA Manager of Producer Testing Director of Member Services and Herd Health Programs

2012 Michigan Dairy Industry Conference Provides Timely Information

E

ach year, people involved in a variety of areas in the dairy industry, from processing plant personnel to field people to milk haulers, come together to gain insight into important issues in Michigan’s dairy industry. This year was no different. On the evening prior to the conference, there was a milk truck decontamination demonstration.

This is an integral part of nearly any foreign animal disease outbreak contingency plan such as Avian Influenza or Foot and Mouth Disease.

The theme for this year’s conference was “Meeting Consumer Expectations.” The day consisted of presentations on a variety of topics related to meeting both domestic and foreign consumer expectations.

Topics ranged from meeting the European Union milk quality requirements to monitoring school milk programs to designing cleaning programs for food processors.

In this article, I will focus on a presentation given by Dr. Ron Erskine, Professor, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences. I found the presentation pertinent for members reviewing their animal treatment standard operating procedures (SOPs). Good treatment SOPs guide employees and owners to make the most effective treatment decisions. After diagnosing the condition ailing the animal, the treatment SOP outlines the protocol to be used on that farm to treat that class of animal for that specific condition. This is one of the

6 July 2012

cornerstones of the Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) program in which MMPA members are participating.

Treatment protocols indicate which drugs may be used to treat a condition. Protocols are developed based on the information provided on drug labels (in addition to veterinary guidance). They are required to provide certain information including the condition the drug is approved to treat, the class of animal to which the drug can be administered, dosage, route of administration, time to withhold milk (if applicable) and time to wait prior to slaughter.

This information is necessary when determining which drug is appropriate for a particular treatment protocol.

The milk and meat withhold times indicated on the label provided by the pharmaceutical companies are accurate ONLY when the drug is administered strictly according to label directions – otherwise known as on-label use. Drug administration that deviates from this label is referred to as off-label or extra-label use. Some drugs are not allowed to be used extra-label while others may be used in this fashion under the guidance of a veterinarian. This is true whether the drug is purchased over-the-counter (OTC) or through prescription.

When a drug can and will be used extra-label, a veterinarian must provide a label that indicates the name and address of the prescribing

veterinarian. The label needs to also include the condition to be treated, the class of animal to be treated, the dosage, route of administration, as well as the new milk and meat withhold times.

Extra-label use of a drug can drastically change the time required for the drug to clear the milk or tissue, no matter how insignificant the deviation from the pharmaceutical label may appear. For instance, changing the route of administration of a drug from intravenous (IV) to intra-muscular (IM) may significantly reduce the rate the drug is released into the animal’s system. This could increase the amount of time required for the drug to clear the animal’s milk and/or tissue. Changing the route of administration could also reduce drug effectiveness. If this is the case, using drugs off label may not be good for the animal.

It is important for all farms to establish and continually review treatment protocols. MMPA members care about the animals under their responsibility. Being able to properly treat animals when they become ill is critical to a sustainable, responsible and compassionate industry. To do so, farmers should consult their veterinarians as they review treatment protocols and adjust them as necessary to provide the best care for their animals and the safest food supply for the consumer.

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News & Views The latest dairy news

May Class III down 49 cents

The May Class III milk price is $15.23 per hundredweight. That’s down 49 cents from the month before. The Class IV price is down $1.25 from last month to $13.55.

CWT-Assisted Export Sales Total 13.9 Million Pounds in May Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) received 110 requests for export assistance from member cooperatives in May: 71 for cheese, and 39 for butter and anhydrous milk fat (AMF). Of those, 75 were accepted: 48 for cheese, and 27 for butter and AMF, totaling 8.821 million pounds of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, and 5.110 million pounds of butter and AMF.

Producers scoring 95 percent or more on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Rating

MMPA MICHIGAN DAIRY SOUTH May, 2012

8 July 2012

The dairy policy reforms that have been under development for three years were included in the 2012 Farm Bill approved by the Senate by a vote of 64-35.

The National Milk Producers Federation hailed the bill’s passage as a “huge and historic step toward making a once-in-a-generation improvement in the safety net for America’s dairy farmers,” according to Jerry Kozak, President and CEO of NMPF.

“Despite a variety of political, economic and institutional challenges, the leaders of the Senate, and in particular, the leaders of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Sens. Stabenow and Roberts, have delivered on their promise to produce better farm and food policy. We appreciate their hard work in the past months, and will work in turn to ensure the House produces a similar bill in the coming months,” Kozak said.

Kozak said the dairy title contains a better safety net for farmers in the form of the Dairy Production Margin Protection Program, which offers them a basic level of coverage against low margins, as well as a supplemental insurance plan offering higher levels of protection jointly funded by the government and participating farmers. Those farmers choosing to enroll in the margin program will also be subject to a Market Stabilization Program that addresses the imbalance between supply and demand when farm-level margins are poor.

During the consideration of more than 70 amendments to the bill, there was no effort to significantly alter the dairy title, NMPF said.

“Although it was necessary to work to defeat several unacceptable amendments, the fundamental package of dairy policy reforms supported

by NMPF remained unchanged throughout the Senate debate,” said Kozak.

“We are very pleased at the progress made during this vital step in the Farm Bill process, but we also know that much work lies ahead,” he added.

With Senate passage of a 2012 Farm Bill, the focus now shifts to the House of Representatives, where the House Agriculture Committee is expected to begin marking up its own version in July.

Upcoming Events

Grand Valley Farms * Kevin Cavanaugh Ferris Farms* Hartland Farms Inc. Drakelan Farms LLC Brian Sweetland Horning Farms LLC Huehl Acres

Senate Farm Passes Farm Bill with Crucial Dairy Policy Reforms

*100 percent

July

2

Advisory Committee — Novi

17-19

Ag Expo — East Lansing

16-20

Michigan Dairy Expo — ­ East Lansing

August 16-17

OYDC Conference —Novi

Dairy Tops the Growing Ag Sector, Contributing $14.7 Billion to the State’s Economy

A

ccording to a recently released Michigan State University (MSU) study on the economic impact of Michigan’s dairy sector, dairy contributes a staggering $14.683 billion to the state’s economy each year.

President of the Michigan Milk Producers Association, Ken Nobis, wasn’t surprised by the new statistics, “Dairy has always been a substantial part of Michigan’s economy, currently generating almost 40,000 direct and indirect jobs. It is truly a bright spot in our state’s economy showcasing the innovation, commitment and tenacity of our state’s dairy farmers, processors, wholesalers and retailers.”

Taking a closer look at the study, the total includes $2.339

billion from dairy farming, $7.97 billion from processing and $4.374 billion from wholesaling and retailing. These numbers are historically high, caused by a rising number of cows and milk production in the state. Coupled with fluctuating prices, dairy farm cash recipients swelled nearly 50 percent from 2006 to 2010, with 8.3 billion pounds of milk produced in 2010 compared to 7.1 billion pounds in 2006.

Estimates summarize total economic impact including direct, indirect (impact on industry inputs) and induced impact on the general economy and are based predominately on 2010 data-the latest available. Processing data is obtained from the 2007 Economic census which experts suspect

understates the current level of dairy processing.

Bill Knudson, MSU Product Center product marketing economist, expanded on the role dairy plays in the state economy saying, “Nationally, Michigan ranks eighth in milk production, and the number of dairy cows and the amount of milk produced in the state continues to increase. Clearly, the dairy sector is an important component of Michigan’s food and agriculture system.”

Michigan Milk Messenger 9

Legislative Watch Issues important to today’s dairy farmers

Congressman Upton Tours MMPA Constantine Plant

C

ongressman Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph), Chair of the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce, toured several businesses in the White Pigeon/Constantine area on June 14, including MMPA’s plant in Constantine, Michigan. The tour provided an opportunity to highlight Michigan’s growing and vibrant agriculture industry.

During the tour of MMPA’s Constantine plant, several topics such as the economic impact of the dairy industry to Michigan’s economy, the high quality of MMPA member’s milk production, the growing global demand for U.S. dairy products and various federal legislative issues including the 2012 Farm Bill were addressed before and after the tour of the Constantine plant.

“Agriculture is not only one of our largest industries here in Michigan, it is a way of life that supports countless jobs and ensure a safe, reliable and affordable food supply.

I am hopeful that Congress can pass a bipartisan Farm Bill this year – one that works for all Michigan producers and helps address our rising national debt,” Upton said.

Tour participants included left to right: Jim Byrum, Michigan Agri-Business Association; Jim Miller, Governmental Consultants Services, Inc.; Ken Nobis, MMPA President; Congressman Fred Upton; Tim Hood, MMPA District 2 Director; Dave Davis, Constantine Plant Manager.

The tour also provided the chance to showcase the various awards received by the MMPA Constantine plant for the high quality butter produced at the plant including the two first place trophies received at the 2010 World Cheese Championship Contest in Wisconsin.

MMPA Constantine Plant Quick Facts: • Established in 1915 with 148 patrons/co-op members • By 1936 had 3,800 patrons/co-op members • Today, 237 dairy farms in local area (Constantine Local) • Capacity of 1 million pounds (116,000 gallons) per day • Process 360,000,000 pounds (42,000,000 gallons) of milk each year • Manufacture: •

• Butter

•

• Cream

•

• Condensed Skim

•

• Non-fat Dry Milk

•

• Instant Milk

10 July 2012

MMPA District 2 Director Tim Hood (left) and MMPA President Ken Nobis (right) discuss the importance of passing the 2012 Farm Bill this year with Congressman Upton.

The Sharrards Travel to Washington, D.C.

F

lying into Washington D.C., Jeremy and I got to see the Pentagon and the Washington Monument from the air. Once outside the airport, we were greeted with hot and humid weather.

Our first day started with fellow Young Cooperators and the YC Coordinator from National Milk, Sarah. Our first duty was to review the YC Leadership portion from the NMPF Joint Meeting last November. The YC Advisory Council also planned this year’s program for the joint meeting. Orlando, Florida will be the site for the 2012 NMPF meeting. Who wouldn’t want to go to Disney World? After making plans for the YC program, we got to meet the NMPF staff and ask questions.

Our evening program was a bus tour of the many monuments and buildings in D.C. Our tour guide told us that an old, run-down townhouse in Alexandria, a suburb of D.C., averages $1-2 million. A nice one with a little backyard is around $8 million. That made land prices here seem reasonable.

Tuesday started early for Jeremy and I. We had been invited to Senator Stabenow’s office for her ‘Good Morning Michigan’ coffee time. It was nice to have Ken Nobis and Sheila Burkhardt with us. Both had been to Sen. Stabenow’s office before and knew her staff by name. Her staff gave us an update on the Dairy

Security Act (DSA) and the Farm Bill.

It was nice to get an update from people that deal with the DSA on a daily basis. Sen. Stabenow took the time to talk with us before going to meetings dealing with the Farm Bill.

We then went back to the hotel to learn about effective lobbying techniques. It was beneficial to learn how to approach the staff.

Our main focus was to encourage our Senators and House of Representative members to support the Farm Bill and the DSA.

million for their PAC every year. As a result, they have a big voice in D.C. They are in the top 20 PACs. Some other PACs in the top 20 are labor unions and airlines. The members of American Crystal know that money talks in D.C. and as a result, they are willing to contribute to their PAC. Our day and trip to Washington, D.C. finished with the NMPF Board meeting. The board went over industry updates. Most of the meeting was devoted to the Farm Bill and its progress in Senate.

Jeremy and I would like to thank MMPA for the opportunity to represent Michigan and MMPA at the various meetings. MMPA has a great reputation across the nation and we are proud to be part of this great co-op. Thank You!

Jeremy and Jody

Our day finished with a cheese reception for our Senators and House members and their staff members.

The final day of the meeting started with a PAC breakfast. PAC stands for Political Action Committee.

We heard from a representative from American Crystal Sugar about how that co-op raises money for their PAC. We found out that American Crystal is a small co-op (450,000 growing acres) that Jeremy and Jody Sharrard meet with Senator Debbie raises over $1.5 Stabenow while making legislative visits in Washington, D.C.

Michigan Milk Messenger 11

e h t f o t Ou s e h As

By Alex Henry

A Farmer’s Worst Nightmare August 19, 2011 – it was a normal morning. Steve and Diane Foley had already finished the normal first milking and their daughters Rachel and Grace had just wrapped up feeding calves. At 5:30 a.m., the family headed home for a normal breakfast. But at 7:15 a.m. they got a call that changed everything.

“A neighbor called and said, ‘Hey, are you burning something down at the barn?’ I told him no and he said, ‘Well you better get down there quick,’” Steve recollected.

Diane still remembers calling downstairs to their daughters, “There is a fire at the barn.”

By the time the Foleys made the two-mile trek to Rainbow Creek Farms, the entire front of the freshening barn was engulfed in flames. “I almost got sick when I

12 July 2012

came through the trees and saw our barn on fire. It’s so hard to describe the feeling,” Diane said. The blaze had already burned through the barn and was spreading toward the milking parlor. The smoke was flowing through the freestalls, indicating the flames were headed there next. Luckily, a handful of neighbors had already arrived on the scene and turned the majority of the cows out on pasture.

“Our” Farm

Thanks to the logic and quickthinking of neighbors, by 9 a.m. the fire was contained, taking eight close up freshening cows, a freshening barn, a commodity storage facility and a milking parlor in its wake. Yet, for the Foleys, getting the fire under control was just the start. They still had 168 over-excited, nervous cows waiting for their normal 10 a.m. milking.

“Eric Frahm’s sons came over and helped me sort cows. There were people lined up with trailers ready to move cows before we were even ready to move them. People had their own stuff that they should have been doing, but they were here,” Steve remarked.

Even before the blaze was extinguished, Rachel and Grace had already started making calls and visiting vacant milking facilities that could handle Rainbow Creek Farms’ displaced herd. By 1 p.m., Diane and Steve narrowed the options, settling on the recently vacated dairy operation of Duane and Sandy Weber, who had sold their cows in April.

Diane added, “It was so amazing. Throughout the day, we had anywhere from 50-300 people

here helping at any given time.”

Thanks to help from neighbors, the cows were transported and milking had started by 3 p.m.

A popular farm for public tours and host of a 300-person annual kindergarten tour, Rainbow Creek Farms had a large community following even before the fire. “I had someone tell me, ‘You know this fire affected us all. This is our farm too; this was our fire,’” Diane elaborated.

Neighbors gave the family straw, loaned wagons and, during the fire, several neighbors even offered to go to the local grocery store to buy bottled water for the cows since the farm’s electricity had been shut off.

From people they had never met to friends they had relied on for years, the Foleys were overwhelmed by the continuous, dedicated outpouring of community support.

Putting the Pieces Back Together

When asked if they ever considered cutting their losses and selling their herd, Diane quickly responded, “The thought never even crossed our minds. I was on one side of the burning barn and Steve was on the other and we both told different people, ‘Well, I guess it’s time to get robots!’”

After experiencing such a huge loss, a hint of sadness or grief would have been understandable – normal even. But the Foleys kept their focus positive. “You can embrace it [hardships] and move on, or you can feel sorry for yourself. We were just blessed because we were all OK and no one got hurt,” Steve explained.

Diane beamed at her husband and added the family motto, “If you’re going to laugh about something tomorrow, you might as well laugh about it today!”

Steve talked to Eric Inbody, who said he could have the robots installed and running by November 1. A phone call to Brown Dairy indicated that they could also have a milk tank

ready by then as well. November 1 became the goal to come home.

This was later changed to Saturday, November 5 as more volunteers were available on the weekend. In order to achieve this goal, people were willing to work together around the clock.

No one wanted to be the reason the cows couldn’t come home.

It took 30 days of cleaning and planning before the Foleys could start putting their farm back together. Diane was in charge of the cattle, Steve headed the construction project, Rachel took on calf care and Grace filled in so the rest of the family got a chance to sleep.

Chris Jacobi took on feeding cows and any other jobs thrown his way.

Diane’s parents, Grandpa Bob and Grandma Jane, started feeding the hordes of people present, along with running errands for everyone. On November 8, 81 days after the fire, the new barn was completed and the cows finally came home.

Rainbow Creek Farms has always had good hired help. When the decision was made to go to robots, the employees could have quit knowing that their days of employment were numbered, but they didn’t. They wanted the cows to come home the same as the Foleys did. Their last day was a sad day for everyone.

Building with New Technology

But the Foley’s herd didn’t come back to the same accommodations they left. Rather upgraded from, in their words, “A Cadillac to a Limo.”

Rainbow Creek Farms is now home to four Lely Astronaut robotic milkers, a Luna cow brush and a Juno feed pusher, not to mention 400 waterbeds the farm installed in 2006.

“It was a long time coming.

In 1990 I got the first picture of a robotic milker and hung it up on the office door. When we renovated the freestall barn in 2008, we made changes so that somehow, someday we could install the robots,” Steve reminisced.

Whether fast learners or happy to Continued on page 14

Rainbow Creek Farms by the Numbers 0

Number of people hurt in the fire

2 the number of robots each cow gets to choose

from (of course they have a favorite) 3

number of times each day someone pulls a report of cows who haven’t milked in 10+ hours

3.4 average number of times a cow visits the robot

per day 5 number of unsuccessful udder attachment

attempts before the robot evicts a cow 6 maximum number of times a cow can choose to

be milked per day 7

number of employees dearly missed

30 number of milkings the robot’s laser eye saves to

locate each cow’s teat placement 70 pounds per day, average production 100s the people that helped the cows come home

Michigan Milk Messenger 13

Continued from page 13 be home, the cows seemed to be one step ahead in the transition process.

While the first robotic milking should have taken 14 hours, the Foley’s herd did it in 10. Today’s production averages are higher and SCCs are lower with the additional technology than before the fire.

Steve commented that herd health is also easier to manage with the Lely milkers, “Now the robot tells me there’s something wrong before I can tell a cow is sick. It measures weight, temperature, activity, production, rumination, conductivity and grain intake. The information is all there and if you use it, you can solve a lot of problems before they start.”

With an emphasis on cow comfort and limited stress from contact, the Foleys have noticed their barn has become calmer since the robot’s installation. “Our cows have always been calm, but now they are downright lazy! They don’t want to get up from the waterbeds or give up the pellets when it’s time to dry them off,” Steve joked.

His advice to producers looking into installing robots: “Everybody’s situation is different. If you’re looking for perfection, they aren’t for you. But get out and see other farms.

Touring Mark Schiefer’s farm helped me decide on our design. The Weiss family came out and helped us put on all the collars. You aren’t in this alone.”

For more details about their milking system, see the information box on the previous page.

Their Secret

Purchasing the farm from the Sergent family in 2001, celebrating 24 years of marriage on June 18, overcoming a devastating fire and still laughing as they enjoy day-to-day life together, it’s hard not to wonder: what’s their secret?

“Well, we’ve always done things as a family. We make decisions

14 July 2012

“If you’re going to laugh about something tomorrow, you might as well laugh about it today,” - Steve and Diane Foley together. We work together and we make time for vacations together.

Laughter is a huge part of our lives all day—every day,” Diane said.

She went on to stress the importance of inviting communities to visit and be part of their local dairy farms, “Open your farm to your neighbors. You never know when you’re going to need them. When the community feels like they are a part of your business, your job gets a lot easier.”

The Foleys are currently milking 140 head in Millington, Michigan and

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33rd Annual Ag Expo, July 17-19 at Michigan State University

A

g Expo, Michigan’s largest outdoor farm show, returns to the Michigan State University (MSU) campus July 17-19 for the 33rd time, bringing a variety of educational and commercial activities and exhibits to the state’s agricultural community as well as to homeowners, families and anyone who wants to know more about the state’s second-largest industry.

This year, Ag Expo will bring participants the latest technology in agricultural production, current research findings from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) faculty, and a full schedule of demonstrations and educational sessions to help improve farm and business management.

MMPA President Ken Nobis urges members to visit Ag Expo if they have a spare morning or afternoon, “With mounting challenges facing our industry every day, the most up-to-date technology and science are essential to making sure Michigan dairy farmers stay ahead of the curve. Ag Expo provides a great opportunity to network with scientists, businesspeople, industry experts and other producers to exchange trends and best practices.”

Across the expo grounds, more than 200 exhibitors will feature products and services that help Michigan agricultural producers continue to succeed. Dairy exhibitors include Michigan Milk Producers Association; Lely, USA; Valmetal, Inc.; Sikkema’s Equipment; AgriPlastics Manufacturing; and many more!

Demonstrations on tillage, mortality composting and biodiesel processing will be available.

Visitors can test-drive payloaders, telehandlers, skid steers and largeframe tractors. Stock dog training demonstrations are back this year by popular demand, and MI-Alpaca

will be on hand to demonstrate the spinning and skirting of alpaca fleece.

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, along with MSU Extension and MSU AgBioResearch, continue to serve Michigan residents to improve farm profits, agribusiness development and personal quality of life, said Doug Buhler, interim dean of the CANR. “Together we are working to grow Michigan’s $90 billion agricultural and agri-foods industry to new levels.”

For more information about Ag Expo, call 800-366-7055 or visit www.agexpo.msu.edu.

“We are committed to providing quality educational activities, demonstrations and informational presentations,” Buhler said.

“Regardless of whether you’re an experienced grower or would like to become one, there’s something for everyone at this year’s show.”

The event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 17 and 18, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 19. Admission to the grounds and parking at Farm Lane and Mt. Hope Road are free.

Michigan Milk Messenger 15

Passion for Dairy Management is Genetic for MSU Food Systems Fellowship Intern Jackie Rowley Learn more about our 2012 MSU Food Systems Fellowship Intern Jackie Rowley and how she’ll be serving MMPA members this summer.

Tell us a little bit about yourself Jackie. Where did you grow up?

Where are you going to school?

How did you get involved in the dairy industry?

I’m the daughter of Robert and Mary Ann Rowley and grew up on a 60-cow family farm in Richmond, Michigan. I’ve been feeding calves since I can remember and have become more involved in the family farm over the years. My family recently installed a Lely robotic milking system and Lely Luna cow brush. (That our cows adore!) My father has also been a milk hauler for the co-op for 48 years.

I graduated with an animal science degree from Michigan State University (MSU) in 2010 with a concentration in the production animal scholars pathway. In the fall, I will be starting my third year as a veterinary student at MSU. My passion for the dairy industry has evolved through involvement in many organizations. I served as the president of the MSU Dairy Club and currently serve as an advisor to the club. I was also on the National Dairy Challenge Team, competing in California.

Last year, I participated in a different food systems fellowship program that led me to Chennai, India. During my time abroad, we worked on four different dairy research projects. Being so intimately involved with the food supply in a third-world country made me even more grateful for all of the safeguards we have in place in the U.S. It also made me appreciate the amazing things Indian farmers and veterinarians can accomplish

16 July 2012

with very few resources.

With all those experiences under your belt, why did you apply for MMPA’s internship?

I’ve always had an interest in working with farmers and helping them provide the best care for their animals.

MSU Food Systems Fellowship Intern Jackie Rowley Through various MSU dairy mastitis management and execute a challenges, I have always made small research project dealing with recommendations to farms on how manure solids bedding to help a to decrease their somatic cell counts, farmer better manage his free stalls. but have never had a chance to see if

I love traveling across the state, my suggestions actually worked. I’m seeing an array of farms and all the excited to watch the changes on a different ways producers reach the farm level and monitor the results. end goal of quality, safe milk for the public.

What have you been doing this summer? What does your What’s next for you? internship entail?

After graduation, I plan to

This summer I have been practice in Michigan and continue riding around with the member devoting my efforts to my favorite representatives doing routine animal – the dairy cow. I have had inspections and state inspections lots of on-farm experience with on farms; making stops on high PI, my family’s farm and MMPA has high raw and low freeze points; and helped me expand my knowledge of performing a variety of other farm different aspects of the dairy industry, calls. The FARM (Farmers Assuring which will help me become a better Responsible Management) program veterinarian. has also been one of my focuses.

I’ve been certified to conduct these evaluations and help share the field representatives’ inspection workload.

I will also further my knowledge of

Great Dairy Adventure scheduled for July 18 at MSU The 15th annual “Great Dairy Adventure” consumer education day will take place July 18 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Michigan State University (MSU) Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education.

The free one-day event is geared to the young (and young at heart), families, daycare providers and summer campers, and anyone who is interested in knowing more about cows, how milk and dairy products are produced from cow to grocery store shelf, and the dairy industry as a whole.

Attendees will leave the event with a better understanding of the importance of Michigan’s dairy industry to the state’s economy. Attendees will discover the multi-step journey milk takes to reach our refrigerators and the nutritious benefits dairy products provide. It’s also an opportunity to talk to and learn from local farmers and ask questions about how food gets from the farm to your table.

In addition to free ice cream, milk, cheese and yogurt and take-home projects, participants will have a chance to visit oneon-one with MSU large animal veterinary students during hands-on activities with cows. Parents and people who work with children will receive nutrition education materials that include simple, tasty recipe ideas to try at home. Everyone is encouraged to bring a camera to capture memories in the making.

The family-oriented and volunteeroperated event keeps growing in attendance each year and is a popular field trip for many summer children’s programs and a fun family outing.

The United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) will distribute commemorative backpacks to each participant to carry the handouts, giveaways and prizes that will be distributed at the Great Dairy Adventure.

There is no admission fee to participate in the Great Dairy Adventure, and parking is free. All activities will take place inside the pavilion, which is accessible to wheelchair-users.

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Michigan Milk Messenger 17

Members First: Christy Dinsmoore named Michigan’s Dairy Field Person of the Year

By Alex Henry

E

ach year, Michigan’s dairy industry honors one field representative who has gone above and beyond to serve dairy farmers with knowledge, expertise and passion. This year, MMPA Membership Representative and Mastitis Management Specialist Christy Dinsmoore was selected by her peers for this recognition, awarded at the Michigan Dairy Industry Conference held in Mt. Pleasant in May.

“Christy has been a great asset to MMPA from the time she started with us eight years ago,” MMPA Director of Member Services Dean Letter says. “She has continuously stepped up to take on new responsibilities including leading our Milker Training Schools, overseeing FARM certifications, mentoring our intern and learning the latest management practices to help our farmers improve milk quality. She never stops learning and has invested substantial time and talent into improving the quality of Michigan farms.”

Christy grew up on her family’s centennial dairy farm in Fairgrove and was co-salutatorian at Akron-Fairgrove High School.

18 July 2012

She graduated from Michigan State University in 2004 with a degree in Animal Science and traveled abroad to England, Scotland and Ireland.

Christy has been in the business of dairy field work for eight years and was hired as an MMPA member representative in Sept. 2004, promoted to Milking Systems Performance Assurance Program (MSPAP) specialist in Jan. 2010 and assumed the role of mastitis management specialist, animal care in Oct. 2011. Her daily

responsibilities cover a variety of member services including serving 26 farms as a member representative, hosting MMPA Milker Training Schools, consulting with other field staff on mastitis management issues, supervising the MSU Food Systems Fellowship intern, overseeing FARM reports and conducting equipment checks.

But her accomplishments only tell half of the story. We had the chance to tagalong with Christy to get an insider’s look at what makes

this year’s dairy field person of the year tick.

The morning started at 7:30 a.m., meeting East Area Member Rep. Gary Best at Doug Murray’s farm in Brown City. When we arrived, the morning milking was only halfway completed, delaying the equipment check. But, Christy didn’t lose any time.

She used her experience hosting MMPA Milker Training Schools to demonstrate milking procedure techniques shown to reduce SCC and bacteria counts. The milkers were able to try-on the techniques with Christy’s guidance and ask questions along the way. These hands-on chances to work with members are Christy’s favorite part of the job,

“It’s not as hard to wake up in the morning when you’re working with good people to produce quality milk. We’re all in this together and I love the challenge of my job changing constantly, with every producer, every farm, every day.”

After wrapping up milking, Christy worked alongside Gary to measure the effectiveness of the Murray’s CIP system, adjusting the pre-rinse temperature, detergent level and air injector settings to ensure proper sanitation. She commented, “Technology is going to continue to play an even larger role in modernday dairies. From robotic milkers

to electronic ID systems to more advanced parlor systems, technology is helping us become better cow managers.”

A busy morning under her belt, Christy set off for a FARM Evaluation at Schumacher & Sons Farms, LLC in Munger. Catching up on the hay outlook and weather reports, care and friendship marked the warm conversation, a result of years of relationship building.

Christy later elaborated, “You know, we aren’t just field reps. We’re accountants, therapists, family counselors, motivators, educators, you name it. There might be a day when you show up to a farm thinking you’re going to go over a lab report, but after seeing the producer’s face, you know there’s something else on their mind. That day is just about being a friend and listening. In this job, it’s people first.”

Farm and life updates with the Schumachers eventually transitioned into questions from the FARM Evaluation as the brothers comfortably discussed their daily animal care procedures with Christy.

The evaluation moved outside as she conducted the required herd observations, “Letting the cows speak for the quality care they get every day.” Even in the rain and mud, she joked with Larry and Bill about the especially friendly cows interested in

tasting her clipboard.

On our way out of the driveway, Christy said that the most rewarding part of her job is when a problem she’s been helping a producer with is fixed, “When I said goodbye to some of my farms as my position changed, they told me to stop on by when I was in the neighborhood.

That’s when you know you made a difference for their farm.”

We had one more stop for the day, a visit to a producer to discuss the new European Union shipping requirements. Greeted by a protective farm dog, Christy went about her business without a care, washing her boots and heading in to talk with the owner. They conversed about the farm’s recent impressive quality counts from the lab and went over the regulation changes that would affect the export markets.

Even though each day and each visit is extremely different, Christy mentioned some underlying trends, “MMPA farms may be extremely different with different operators, systems and sizes, but we are all working towards the same goal – quality milk. Our farms are incredibly pioneering and constantly looking for better ways to run their operations.”

Christy expressed her appreciation for her encouraging family and supportive co-workers, “I really can’t take much credit for this award. I have had some of the best leaders and friends in the dairy industry to learn from for the past eight years. Their mentorship means so much to me.”

As we wrapped up our day together, Christy summed up her experience as an MMPA member representative saying, “As a member rep, MMPA is part of your life. The people you work with become your close friends and your family gets to hear all about your day every night.”

Christy is joined by her parents at the Industry banquet. Pictured with Christy are her parents Kirk and Cindy Dinsmoore and her brother, Dustin.

Michigan Milk Messenger 19

Quality is a Team Effort: Patti Huttula – 2012 Michigan Dairy Service Award Recipient

By Alex Henry

R

eaders should know if Patti Huttula had her way, this article wouldn’t exist. A self-proclaimed organizer, note taker and “behind the scenes person,” Patti felt honored, but nervous when her name was called as this year’s Michigan Dairy Service Award recipient at the Michigan Dairy Industry Conference (MDIC) in Mt. Pleasant. The MMPA laboratory supervisor, she was nominated for the prestigious award by her peers paying tribute to her substantial contributions to the industry over the course of 24 years.

Even though Patti passed the real praise on to MMPA’s lab technicians, MMPA Director of Member Services Dean Letter commended her leadership through example, “Patti might not like to take credit for the effort made to provide members with accurate, timely quality tests every day, but her leadership has catalyzed our lab’s success. She’s an expert organizer and problem solver who has earned the admiration of her colleagues in and outside of the lab through hard work, passion and a commitment to our members. Patti has more of an impact on the MMPA laboratory’s success than she’ll ever realize.”

Patti holds a bachelor’s degree in bacteriology from the University of Wisconsin, Madison and began her career in the dairy industry working in a food, water and dairy testing laboratory, Dairilab Services. She signed-on as a laboratory technician with Michigan Dairy in spring 1988 and transitioned to MMPA in August of that year. Patti was promoted to laboratory supervisor of MMPA’s Novi lab in 1992 and has been serving in this capacity ever since.

Personally, her definition of success hinges on meeting members’ needs, “We [people in the lab] like to

20 July 2012

Novi Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula works with Member Representative Kendra Stieg. fly under the radar. When things are running smoothly and we don’t have to rush around putting out fires, we know we’re doing things right. We are happy to be the people behind our producer’s milk test results and are constantly working towards efficiencies to save them money.”

Commenting on her advice to young people looking into dairy careers, Patti said, “The only way you can do something as long as I’ve been doing it is to find your own personal satisfaction in your job. You’ve got to like what you’re doing or you’ll be miserable.” She elaborated, “When I first began working at MMPA, Lowell Allen told me, ‘Welcome! Just so you know you’ll never get rich in dairy.’ And he was right! But when you help a producer or hear through the grapevine that you’ve helped him/her improve their operation, that’s when you know you’re making a difference. Then it’s all worth it.”

In addition to her work at MMPA, Patti is a Michigan Certified

Milk Analyst and a member of the Laboratory Committee of the National Conference on Interstate Milk Shipments. She was one of the primary organizers of the Michigan Laboratory Analysts Annual Meeting and continues to be a key member of the organizational team of the annual MDIC.

With all of these accomplishments and recommendations to her credit, Patti still tips her hat to others, “The recognition isn’t just about me. It’s about capable co-workers and our member reps who field questions from producers and work together to take care of business. That’s what makes us look good! Our lab techs take ownership and accountability for every test and every farm; they pour themselves into making sure that our members turn out a safe, wholesome product.”

When asked about some of the changes she’s seen throughout the years, Patti stated that her staff is

more challenged by producers than ever, “Producers are more educated and have more information than ever before. They have raised their standards. We’ve started asking ourselves, ‘How can we do more to fill their needs?’”

This customized approach stems from Patti’s understanding that all lab work directly affects MMPA members’ bottom line, farms and family. She reiterated the whole laboratory staff realizes

that every member is important.

Regardless of size, location or type of operation their service level remains consistently high.

Patti’s message to MMPA members: “We work for you! I can’t tell you how many times a producer has called and said, ‘I don’t want to bother you,’ but that’s what I’m here for. Don’t forget you’re the

owners and we’re here for you.

Without you we’d just be part of the unemployment statistics. You make us look good with your high quality so let us help you look good too.”

When away from the lab, Patti enjoys being a mom to her 13-yearold son, Hayden, and sharing life with her fiancé, Paul Zubrod.

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Michigan Milk Messenger 21

Michigan Youth Dairy Days and Michigan Dairy Expo Coming in July

M

ichigan Youth Dairy Days are scheduled for July 1620 and held in conjunction with the Michigan Dairy Expo at the Michigan State University (MSU) Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education on the MSU campus.

One of the event’s highlights is the fourth annual Sale-abration auction July 17 at 6 p.m. in the sale arena. The youth show champion heifer entry, champion milking cow entry and champion showperson along with the champion and reserve champion winners from the Michigan Livestock Expo – held the previous weekend at the MSU Pavilion – will be auctioned off to the highest bidder. A basket of various dairy products will represent the dairy lots, the owners of the champion heifer, champion milking female and the champion showperson will receive up to $1,000. Any bid above $1,000 is reinvested in Michigan dairy youth programs.

Since the event started in 2009, a contingent of industry supporters have banded together to purchase the dairy lots at the sale, contributing $55,300 in support of dairy youth programs. If you’re interested in supporting dairy youth programs, contact Sheila Burkhardt at Burkhardt@mimilk.com or 248474-6672 to join the dairy supporter’s contingent. Previous donors include: MMPA; Varnum Law Firm; Kroger Co. of Michigan; Zeeland Farm Services; Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee; Michigan Soybean Association; NorthStar Cooperative; Dairy Farmers of America; Calder Dairy; Vita Plus; Caledonia Farmers Elevator; Kalmback Feeds, Inc.; Ken Nobis; United Dairy Industry of Michigan; 22 July 2012

The champion cow and exhibitor, Parker Hardy, and dairy industry supporters from the 2011 Livestock Sale-abration.

Country Fresh; Dairy Farmers of America; and Julian Vail, LLC.

Throughout Dairy Days, dairy youth members are invited to participate in conformation and showmanship classes, dairy quiz bowl, and youth management and judging contests to earn an opportunity to represent the state at national events in the fall.

The Michigan Youth Dairy Days Youth Show, open to all youth ages 9 to 19 as of Jan. 1, 2012, takes place July 17. Premiums will be awarded to the top 10 placing animals in the youth show and for the junior, senior and grand champions. The supreme champion animal entry and grand champion showperson will also receive monetary awards. The deadline to submit entries and pay the $5 entry fee per animal was June 2.

But, late entries will be accepted and entries postmarked July 2 through July 16 cost $25 per animal.

In the dairy management contest, held on Monday, July 16, participants work individually to

identify equipment, solve problems and demonstrate skills common in the dairy industry. A novice division will be offered for 9-, 10- and 11-yearold contestants and youth are allowed to compete as a novice for two years before moving on to the junior division. Additionally, the winning senior team in the management contest gets the opportunity to represent Michigan in the AllAmerican Dairy Show management contest in Harrisburg, Pa.

The dairy judging contest takes place Wednesday, July 18, and is an opportunity for youth to test their dairy evaluation skills. Similar to the management contest, a novice division is offered for young participants. Youth in the senior division that place among the top 25 individuals will be invited to participate in a series of practices during the summer to earn a place on the Michigan dairy youth judging teams that compete this fall at the All-American Dairy Show in Harrisville, Pa.; World Dairy Expo

in Madison, Wis.; and the North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE) in Louisville, Ky.

The dairy quiz bowl is yet another event held during Michigan Youth Dairy Days.

Participants can compete in either the junior or senior divisions and are organized into teams. This event will be held on Thursday, July 19 and the winning team will earn the opportunity to represent Michigan in the National Dairy Quiz Bowl contest held in November at the NAILE in Louisville, Ky.

Participants also vie for coveted overall awards including a $1,000 scholarship for the top competitor and $750 scholarship for the runner-up in both the junior and senior divisions. Students who compete in three of the four contests – dairy management, dairy quiz bowl, dairy judging and showmanship – are eligible to be selected for overall awards. If competing in all four events, the participant’s lowest score is dropped.

Winners will be recognized at the Michigan Dairy Expo celebration picnic and dairy youth program recognition night July 19.

The dairy open shows take place on July 19 (Holstein and Jersey futurity classes) and July 20.

A copy of the Michigan Youth Dairy Days/Michigan Dairy Expo premium book, which includes an entry form and a complete schedule of events, is available online at http://www.ans.msu.edu/ans/upcoming_ animal_science_youth_events. To receive a premium book by mail or to request more information about Michigan Dairy Expo, contact Carla McLachlan at 517-432-5402 or mclachl2@msu.edu.

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More than 1,200 people “Move It” at Dairy Day at the Capitol event

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airy processors, producers and industry representatives were joined by more than 1,200 attendees and government officials at Dairy Day at the Capitol held June 12 at the State Capitol in Lansing. Michigan Governor Rick Snyder proclaimed the day as Dairy Day in Michigan to officially celebrate the state’s dairy industry and recognize its farmers’ and processors’ commitment to healthy people, healthy communities and a healthy planet.

Former Detroit Lions defensive tackle and two-time Pro Bowler Luther Elliss was on hand to convey the importance of participating in 60 minutes of physical activity each day and choosing nutrient-rich foods like low-fat and fat-free dairy foods, fruits, vegetables and whole grains to improve overall health and help fight childhood obesity. Michigan’s dairy farmers and processors are staunch supporters of Governor Snyder’s 4x4 Plan for Health and Wellness to help fight childhood obesity.

Elliss led a group of third grade to sixth grade students from the Oak Park YMCA Summer Camp program in a flash workout session to the “I Like to Move It, Move It!” soundtrack from Madagascar 2. He was joined on the Capitol building steps by United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) dietitians, the Detroit Lions mascot Roary, Gary Davis from Prairie Farms, Sue Esser from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Michigan Senators Judy Emmons and Joe Hune and Representatives Jim Ananich, Charles Brunner, Kevin Daley, Kevin Green, Ed McBroom and Phil Potvin.

24 July 2012

Attendees, all equipped with stretch bands, took part in a second exercise activity to the song “Interlude” before being released to enjoy a number of free dairy food samples, including a wide variety of cheeses, flavored milk, ice cream and yogurt, distributed by various dairy organizations.

membership service organization representing all aspects of the dairy processing industry in Michigan, for more than 20 years.

Dairy farming is the top ranking segment of Michigan’s second-largest industry, agriculture. In 2011, dairy cows in Michigan produced nearly 8.5 billion pounds of milk, which is the equivalent of 1.06 billion gallons of milk.

According to the U.S. Department “A full service insurance agency” of Agriculture, 98 percent We specialize in Farms and offer a full range of coverages to of Michigan serve all of your insurance needs. dairy farms are • Competitive – Farmowners. family-owned • Co-op Members in good standing receive additional and -operated, premium discounts on Farmowners policy. sometimes • Group Medical – Regardless of health conditions by multiple for 2 plus groups. generations of a family.

• Low Cost Term Life “Debt Protection.”

Dairy Day at the Capitol has been sponsored and organized by the Michigan Dairy Foods Association (MDFA), a trade and

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Hosted by Michigan Land Improvement Contractors Association & Michigan State University Extension

Located at Pleasant View Dairy 5211 W. Chicago Rd. Jonesville, MI 49250 Promoting Soil, Water and Nutrient Management Advancements in Agriculture Trade show events run 9 am to 4 pm both days Lunch can be purchased on site.

Field demonstrations will run continuously with a short break over the noon hour.

Field Demonstrations will include:    

Drainage system design & installation Drainage tile smoke demonstration Water control structures & controlled drainage Tillage for residue management and manure applications

The Michigan Land Improvement Contractors Association and Michigan State University Extension will be demonstrating the latest advancements in Nutrient Management and Agricultural Drainage.

Exhibitors will be on hand displaying equipment and supplies relating to the drainage and excavating industry, as well as livestock and crop production.

Educational sessions each day at 10:30 and 1:15.

Join these fast paced sessions to hear how these systems work on local farms along with specialists from surrounding states:

  

Cover crops & nutrient recycling of manure Manure calibration Multipurpose drainage systems: Farmer experience in sub irrigation, recycling of livestock wash water and more.

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For more information contact : www.michiganlica.org Will Word at (517) 398-1105 Natalie Rector at (269) 967-6608

BRING ALONG YOUR FRIENDS, CLIENTS, & ASSOCIATES Michigan Milk Messenger 25

Dairy Partners with Michigan Governor Snyder’s Wellness Initiatives

U

nited Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) recently joined Michigan Governor Rick Snyder and several partners from the public and private sector to launch the Pure Michigan FIT program, a nutrition and fitness initiative focusing on children ages 0-5 that will provide tools and resources for Michigan families to incorporate healthy eating habits and physical activity into their lifestyles.

The retail program kickoff was held on June 13 at the Family Fare Metro Health store in Wyoming with a Milk Mustache photo booth and smoothie station promoting milk’s health benefits. Everyone from toddlers to the Governor enjoyed sporting their milk mustache for the camera and were reminded about the nutrient powerhouse each glass of milk provides. Spartan Store’s chef, Amy Sherman, prepared several yogurt MMPA and UDIM Vice President Bob Kran, Governor smoothie recipes and talked to kids about the importance Snyder, MDARD Director Keith Creigh and Spartan Stores of eating yogurt to help build strong bones and muscles. President/CEO Dennis Eidson show their support of Michigan’s dairy farmers for the press.

The Pure Michigan FIT program promotes these USDA core dairy messages: •

There’s no power like Mom Power. You are a positive influence in your children’s lives. Help them develop healthy eating habits for life. Offer them fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk and yogurt at meals and snacks.

•

Mom is a child’s first teacher. You teach by doing. For example, every time you drink fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk, or eat low-fat yogurt, you’re giving your kids a lesson in how to eat for better health. It’s a lesson they can use for all their lives.

•

Strong bodies need strong bones. Give your preschooler fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk or yogurt at meals and snacks. They’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein for strong, healthy bones.

In addition to supporting Pure Michigan FIT, United Dairy Industry of Michigan is partnering with Michigan Department of Community Health on the Governor’s Michigan Health and Wellness 4 x 4 Plan designed to help Michigan residents achieve a healthier lifestyle and decrease the instance of obesity and chronic illnesses.

Michigan’s Fuel Up To Play 60 (FUTP60) is a key strategy and specifically named in the Michigan Health and Wellness 4 x 4 Plan. FUTP60 is identified as an

26 July 2012

effective way to reach and empower students at school to improve their overall health by engaging in 60-minutes of physical activity each day and choosing nutrientrich foods like low-fat and fat-free dairy foods, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Both initiatives combined include partnering organizations like the Michigan Governor’s Office, Michigan Grocer’s Association, Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development, Michigan Department of Education and the Michigan Department of Community Health as well as more than 68 health and wellness organizations.

These powerful partnerships promote Michigan’s dairy industry leadership and commitment to the health and wellness of Michigan families.

For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/ puremichiganfit and follow #puremifit on Twitter. The Michigan Health and Wellness 4 x 4 Plan and tools for Michiganders to assess their health and create a personal plan can be found online at www.michigan.gov/ healthymichigan

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Unless you increase the seeding rate for heavy-coated seed, your stand establishment is at risk.

Many seed companies sell coated alfalfa seed, and the coating material can range from the 9 percent light coat used by DuPont Pioneer, up to 34 percent of total weight or more in heavy-coated alfalfa seed from many other companies. Rhizobium, fungicide and colorant account for approximately 3 percent of the coating weight. Any additional weight listed as coating material is primarily a mineral such as limestone, gypsum or mica, with a polymer that binds these materials to the seed. The most common coating is a 34 percent limestone, referred to here as heavy-coat.

Alfalfa growers should realize these coatings add volume and weight to the bag — weight beyond the actual seed. This added weight reduces the number of pure live seeds per pound, increasing the risk of inadequate stand establishment if the seeding rate per acre is not adjusted accordingly.

This is especially true with cloddy seedbeds or increased weed pressure during early growth.

DuPont Pioneer uses a proprietary patented light coat of 9 percent, applied in a layering process; a layer of fungicide directly on the seed, followed by a separating layer of mica and polymer, then a layer of rhizobia, with a final layer of mica and polymer. This layering results in separation of fungicide from rhizobia, and provides for optimal rhizobial activity and longevity. We use mica (a mineral with similar flowability properties as the talc that’s used as a planter box treatment for improved flowability in seed corn) as opposed to rough limestone or gypsum commonly used in heavy-coated seed.

Heavy Coat example: 66 percent pure seed x 90 percent germ + hard = 59 percent PLS

Light Coat example: 90 percent pure seed x 90 percent germ + hard = 81 percent PLS

What the PLS Score Means A good stand of alfalfa will have 20 to 25 plants per square foot following its first winter. To achieve this, plant enough seed to allow for the attrition that occurs as seedlings emerge, contend with diseases and compete with weeds. Throughout most of North America, alfalfa growers have settled into seeding rates that achieve about 80 pure live seeds per square foot. This equates to 13.9 pounds of pure live seed per acre, assuming 250,000 seeds per raw pound. This equals 16 pounds per acre of traditional pink-treated seed at 90 percent total germination, which includes about 3 percent weight gain from fungicide, Rhizobium and colorant. Using this as a starting point, the table below shows the pounds of pure live seed and equivalent seeding rates needed to achieve 80 pure live seeds per square foot.

Without this seeding rate adjustment for pure live seed, you’ll be reducing the number of seeds per square foot and increasing the risk of not attaining a full stand of alfalfa. Lower seeding rates of pure live seed are associated with reduced yield in the establishment year. Spotty stands hurt production 9% LightCoated Seed

34% HeavyCoated Seed

Total germination (from the seed tag)

90%

90%

Pure seed (from the seed tag)

90%

66%

Pure live seed, percent (total germ x pure seed)

81%

59%

17.2 pounds/ acre

23.6 pounds/ acre

If cost of bag is:

$225

$190

Then seed cost per acre is:

$77

$90

If cost of bag is:

$350

$300

Then seed cost per acre is:

$120

$142

Pounds of seed needed for 80 seeds per square foot

throughout the stand’s life. Weed competition can be more impactful in non-uniform stands too, further reducing yield and quality.

In the example above, the heavy-coated seed costs more per acre than light-coated seed when you adjust for pure live seed equivalency.

Find out what’s in your bag of alfalfa seed to establish a long-term, viable alfalfa stand.

To learn more, talk to your local Pioneer sales professional.

Adjust Seeding Rates Growers should adjust seeding rates based on the level of pure live seed (PLS) per unit of alfalfa seed. You can calculate pure live seed from information on the tag.

Pure Live Seed = percent pure seed x percent total germination Pure live seed is seed you can expect to germinate and contribute to stand establishment. In the case of our light coat seed, multiply the 90 percent pure seed times 90 percent germination, to equal 81 percent pure live seed. A heavy-coat seed would typically show 66 percent pure seed, with a 90 percent total germ. The calculation for this heavycoated seed is 66 percent pure seed multiplied by 90 percent total germ equaling only 59 percent pure live seed. That’s quite a difference, and one that could affect stand density unless seeding rate is adjusted.

DUPPPP.12003_ADVERTORIAL_ALF_MichMilk_v3.indd 1

The DuPont Oval Logo is a registered trademark of DuPont. ® TM SM , , Trademarks and service marks of Pioneer.

All purchases are subject to the terms of labeling and purchase documents. © 2012 PHII. ALFAL025731P136AVA

6/18/12 11:29 AM

Michigan Milk Messenger 27

Merchandise Memo To order call: 1-800-572-5824 then dial 2

Discontinued Merchandise Quarter Milker

After much discussion, we have decided to no longer stock quarter milkers. This was not an easy decision, but we feel it was a necessary one. The FDA interpretation of the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) indicates that under item 1r. Abnormal Milk, quarter milkers should not be allowed. The item states in part that “lactating animals which show evidence of milk with abnormalities in one or more quarters, based upon bacteriological, chemical or physical examination, shall be milked last or with separate equipment and the milk shall be discarded.” According to the interpretation, this means that all the milk from an infected cow must be discarded.

Because of this, the FDA is debiting farms when quarter milkers are found on the farm. This is a five point debit and will have a negative impact on Federal Check Ratings and Grade A Surveys. While this has been a useful tool for some farms to lower their bulk tank SCC, it was decided that it would be inappropriate to sell a product that our member representatives would then have to debit when conducting an inspection.

Therefore, both quarter milkers have been discontinued. The description and stock numbers are listed below.

Teat Glo 1 gallon- stock# 6065:

Coburn Quarter Milker Stock # 4125

GENERATORS

Schlueter Quarter Milker Stock#1527.

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!

•

GREEN MEADOW FARMS

• FROM OUR TOP PRODUCTION COWS.

SIRED BY THE TOP SIRES FROM THE U.S. AND CANADA

6400 HOLLISTER RD. ELSIE, MI 48831 PH: 989-862-4291

28 July 2012

WWW.GREENMEADOWFARMS.COM

The manufacturer of Teat Glo has decided to discontinue offering this product in the one gallon container. Ecolab made this decision due to the low volume of sales for this size package. We are completely out of stock for this item at the merchandise warehouse. However we will continue to offer Teat Glo in the 5 gallon, 15 gallon and 55 gallon containers. Teat Glo Spray is offered in the 15 gallon container.

Winpower & Katolight

Stocking up to 100 KW 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE serving Michigan for the past 30 years 800-345-1887 MIDWEST POWER SYSTEMS

Order Your MMPA Merchandise through your milk hauler or call: Supervisor:

Duane Farmer 989-681-2334 Fax: 989-681-3988 Toll Free: 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi) 800-572-5824 then dial 2

MMPA Quality Premium Program

S

omatic 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 - 400,000 00¢/cwt.

• 401,000 - 500,000 -15¢/cwt.

• 501,000 - 600,000 -30¢/cwt.

• 601,000 - 750,000 -$1.00/cwt.

• Over 750,000 -$1.50/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.

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

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

Stan Palmer 5303 E. Swan Drive #3 Port Clinton, OH 43452 419-797-2101

To qualify for MMPA volume premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month • An average somatic cell count of 750,000 or less.

Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636

MMPA Member Testing Fees

P

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

• Scheduled Herd Tests $1

Scheduled Herd Test samples are tested for: Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae, Strep non ag, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative staph, coliform and 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.

Chemical, Sanitizer & Teat Dip Contact Information

Members who choose to receive their lab test results via U.S. postal service: $2/month Additional Tests Available: All costs are listed per individual sample.

• Mycoplasma Cultures $ 8 • Bacteriology Cultures $12

– Includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility.

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea

- PCR

- ELISA • Johne’s Milk Test

- PCR

- ELISA – cows - ELISA – tank • Bovine Leukosis Test

- ELISA – cows - ELISA – tank

$40 $ 6 $40 $ 6 $10 $ 6 $10

These are service personnel only.

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

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

Jason Koerth 7509 Aborcrest Dr. Portage, MI 49024 269-207-3773 Pat Mitchell 7273 N. Rollin Hwy. Addison, MI 49220 517-403-0928

A & L Laboratories 24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-424-9300 Kurt Fiene 8356 C.R. 115 Kenton, OH 43326 612-889-1063 Jeff Timm NW 8665 C.R. M Shawano, WI 54166 612-840-0555

All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA Member Representative or the laboratory for proper sample submission protocol.

Michigan Milk Messenger 29

Freeliners

Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 224 to place your ad – or email ahenry@mimilk.com

Bulls Registered Holstein Bulls: We now have a nice selection of service age bulls, sired by top AI sires. Green Meadow Farms, Elsie, MI. 989-862-4291 or see our website at www.greenmeadowfarms.com.

Service age Holstein bulls. Call Steve Alexander, 810-622-8548 evenings or 810404-8548.

Registered Holstein breeding bulls, all AI sired from top bulls, b&w, red, red carrier and some polled, high production, low SCC herd. Bulls are priced to sell. Ver Hage Holsteins, 269-673-4886 or 269-2176076, ask for Tim. www.verhageholsteins. com.

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 contacting their MMPA Member Representative or 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 may choose to have the item published as a Classified Ad at the regular per-line Classified Ad rate.

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

Example: to be included in the January issue, the freeliner must be at the MMPA office by December 10.

30 July 2012

Service age Reg. Holstein bulls, deep pedigrees, some red carriers. Jenesis Genetics, 231-924-6163 or 231-225-8615.

Breeding bulls, red & white and black & white Holstein. Also, Jersey/Holstein crossbred. Out of high butterfat and protein dams, free deliver avail. Jerry Good, 616-262-6904.

Cows and Heifers Herd of Holstein cattle: 40 milking cows, 16 heifers shortbred to springing, 7 heifers of breeding age, 989-833-5566.

Equipment Heston wagon, 16 ft. w/tandem running gear, roof and three beaters, $2,500 obo.

20 ft. litter spreader, 2 yr. old, A1 shape, $14,000 obo. 616-754-9404.

N.H. #40 forage blower, $1,750 obo.

N.H. #358 grinder mixer, 20 ft. folding auger, hyd. Drive, 4 screens, $6,500 obo.

Gehl BU940 box for parts, two good beaters, $75 ea. obo. 2 – 16 ft. apron chains, $75 obo. Cross conveyor chain $35 or whole box $400 obo. N.H. 60 in.

Qtach bucket, $300 obo. 810-404-0468.

60 tie stall w/ water cups. 2 – 50 ft. N.I. hay elevator hyd. drive. 810-837-3403.

4400 combine, 1 owner, 213 grain head, 443 – 4 row corn head, always housed, 989-615-6372.

Single post hoist w/ tank and pump, complete, $250. Bottom auger for N.H. 308V spreader, will also fit others, $200.

Beaters for a Gehl self unloading wagon.

N.H. 195 spreader, exc. cond., $5,500.

989-224-2615 or cell 517-204-0888.

Older manure spreader, ground drive 50 bushel, new tires, unload speed adjustable, good shape, ready to go, $1,000 obo. Also, 8 ft. disc harrow 3 pt all new discs 24-18 inches, front and rear gang adjustable, 7 in. spacing, $800.

Cheboygan, Mich. 231-625-2058.

Unloading auger and loading auger for N.H. grinder mixer. Round bale hugger, fits J.D. loader. Silo pipe and silo staves.

Used fenders, seat and steering wheel for J.D. 4020. 810-679-2738 after 7 p.m. or 810-404-2738 anytime.

Dairy Equipment 2 – Copeland 5 h.p. compressors, 3 phase, $1,000 ea. or both for $1,600, 989658-8782.

1,500 gal. Zero milk tank, Universal double six milking system, Universal 15 hp vacuum pump& oil reclaimer, sentinel 350 vacuum regulator, 18 Germania Auto takeoffs. Call 989-271-8757.

Used 600 gal. Mueller bulk tank, tank washer, controller, and compressor, $2,100, 419-758-3191.

Farm for Sale 35.3 acre dairy farm in Alpena County, home built in 2007, barns, 16 x 50 silo w/ feed bunker. More acres available. 989471-2535.

Wanted Gehl forage wagon model BU970, must have roof, 517-569-3143.

Dairy farm to rent, lease, buy. Any location, any size, parlor, stanchion, tiestall ok, 269-841-2018.

One Jersey cow in 3-4-or 5 lactation that would be about 5-6 months pregnant.

Call cell 231-818-1639, Cheboygan, Mich.

Running gear for float wagon. Used van trailers tandem axle. Single axle for tandem truck w/ box and hoist, need not run. 810-679-2738 after 7 p.m. or 810404-2738 anytime.

Clean with

Confidence

C IR - K LENZ II

TM

P I P E L I N E A N D B U L K TA N K C L E A N E R Cir-Klenz II is a new chlorinated detergent that provides longer stability at higher storage temperatures and better hard water tolerance than standard chlorinated alkalines. With built-in conditioners, chelates, chlorine and surfactant there’s no mixing or dissolving required.

PERFORM

TM

A C I D C I R C U L AT I O N C L E A N E R Perform is a concentrated acid-based detergent especially formulated for recirculation cleaning of dairy systems that can’t tolerate foam. It also features a unique blend of three acids plus surfactant to remove soils and mineral deposits, quickly and cost-effectively.

Contact us for more information: www.ecolab.com 1.800.392.3392 © 2010 All rights reserved.

Classifieds Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 224 Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 224

Classified Ads ($20 for up to 6 lines) Mail ads, preferably typed, to: Classified Ads, Michigan Milk Messenger, PO BOX 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002. 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.

OPPERMAN GROOVING: 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. 3 operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. since 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 ______________________________________ CONCRETE GROOVING/FLOOR TEXTURING: Bring existing grooves back to 100% efficiency/new construction. Blue Ribbon Hoof Trimming, LLC. 989-635-1494. ______________________________________

FOR SALE: 5000-4000-3000-2500-2000-1500 OH MUELLER LATE MODEL BULK TANK MILK TANKS, complete, will trade.

1-800-558-0112. ________________________________ WANTED TO BUY: USED BULK MILK TANKS, 200 gallons & larger, Sunset & Mueller, 1-800-558-0112. ________________________________ HOOF TRIMMING: certified, experienced, w/ references. Craig Martin, 517-231-7790. _____________________________________ BARN WHITE WASHING: servicing all of Michigan and Indiana. Miller Spray Service, Inc. 574-825-9776. _____________________________________ 120,000 LB. TOLEDO TRUCK SCALES, basement style, already removed, good cond., $13,000, 989-277-5503. _____________________________________

HOOF TRIMMING: SERVICING CENTRAL TO WEST MI. Dairyland Hoofcare Institute certified, references available upon request. Reaux-Dale Hoofcare, 616-862-6668. _____________________________________ WE WOULD LIKE TO RAISE YOUR HEIFERS: Please call 810-679-3389 for details. _____________________________________

Improve bottom-line $$. Lower feed costs. Maximize production.

Ingredients from your trusted source.

Zeeland Farm Services, Inc.® MI: 866.888.7082 Fax: 616.772.7067 www.zfsinc.com

Low Fat Hominy 7% minimum protein 7% maximum fiber 4% minimum fat

Citrus Pulp

16% maximum fiber 6% minimum protein 2.1% maximum calcium 2% minimum fat

Valero Meal

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

32 July 2012

34% minimum protein 13% maximum crude fiber 4% minimum fat

Traditional ZFS® Menu Soybean meal, soybean hulls, cereal feed, cottonseed, distillers, gluten, canola meal, beet pulp, wet feeds, and more!

Policies 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 membership representative.

• If the tank tests negative (no drugs present), the milk may be released and shipped.

• If the tank tests positive (drugs present), the membership 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 nonmarketability 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 Policy on Milk Quality 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 St. Louis 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. **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 a third occurrence or more 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 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.

* The member will only be paid for two (2) voluntary dumps in a rolling 12 month period.

Michigan Milk Messenger 33

Market Report For Milk Marketed in May 2012

MARKET STATISTICS

Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

This Month

Year Ago

Total Class 1 Sales

511,568,958

518,594,728

-1.35

Total Class 2 Sales

301,556,012

99,936,698

+201.75

Total Class 3 Sales

561,213,301

512,684,638

+9.47

Total Class 4 Sales

219,766,784

101,427,872

1,594,105,055 1,232,643,936

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

32.1%

2012

2011 % Change

+116.67

Production California

3,744

3,675 +1.9

+29.32

Wisconsin

2,339

2,285

+2.4

Idaho

1,173

1,144

+2.5

New York

1,153

1,125

+2.5

Pennsylvania

919

939

-2.1

Texas

847

841

+0.7

Minnesota

786

786

+0.0

Michigan

769

743

+3.5

New Mexico

723

713

+1.4

Washington

552

536

+3.0

Ohio

470

450

+4.4

Indiana

326

312

+4.5

* Total U.S.

16,404

16,069

+2.1

* U.S. Y-T-D

79,827

76,533

+4.3

42.1%

Mideast Federal Order #33

Current Month Total Producers 6,582 Average Daily Production per Farm 7,813 Average Protein Test 3.04% Average Butterfat Test 3.61% Average Other Solids Test 5.76% Average SCC Count (MMPA) 166,000

COMPONENT PRICING INFORMATION Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price/lb.

$2.7344

Butterfat Price/lb.

$1.4462

Other Solids Price/lb.

$0.3500

Class III Price @ 3.5%

$ 15.23

Prod. Price Diff/cwt. (Mich. Mkt.) Uniform Price @ 3.5% SCC Adjustment/cwt./1000

34 July 2012

$0.31 $ 15.54 $0.00076

NATIONAL TRENDS (million pounds)

% Change

* For 23 states

NASS Survey Prices

Monthly Avg Cheese /lb Butter /lb Nonfat Dry Milk /lb Dry Whey /lb

1.5215 1.3657 1.1551 0.5389

MMPA Staff NOVI (Headquarters) 248-474-6672

800-572-5824 General Manager Clay Galarneau, ext. 200 Member Services Milk Sales/Dispatch Finance/Controller Dean Letter, ext. 213 Carl Rasch, ext. 244 Joseph M. Diglio, ext. 240 Laboratory Supervisor Manufactured Product Sales Credit/Insurance

Patti Huttula, ext. 219 Jim Dodson, ext. 229 Cheryl Schmandt, ext. 210 Human Resources Member Relations/Public Affairs Data Processing

Cindy Tilden, ext. 220 Sheila Burkhardt, ext. 208 Gregory Schulkey, ext. 237

Member Communications

Laura Moser

Alex Henry, ext. 211

MANUFACTURING PLANTS

Constantine 269-435-2835 Plant Manager Dave Davis

MMPA FIELD STAFF

MASTITIS MANAGEMENT

EAST AREA

Tom Herremans......................231-853-8008 Ravenna mobile 269-967-0890

Supervisor: Michael Marvin Marlette Office....................989-635-3650

Steven Lehman.......................989-875-3441 Ithaca mobile 989-330-1638

Gary Best................................810-664-4984 Lapeer mobile 586-484-9279 Bulk Tank Calibration

Christy Dinsmoore........................................

Fairgrove mobile 989-528-9102

Environmental Specialist Dale Ledebuhr.......................269-965-2474 Battle Creek mobile 269-986-6791

Michael Marvin.............................................

Marlette mobile 989-670-4864 Kristin Rawlings...........................................

Deckerville mobile 231-414-4539 Andrew Rupprecht.......................................

Clio mobile 269-986-6793

NORTH AREA Supervisor: Gerry Volz St. Louis Office....................989-289-9219 Frank Brazeau........................920-834-4059 Oconto, Wis. mobile 906-250-0337 Ben Chapin....................................................

Big Rapids mobile 989-289-0731

SOUTH AREA Supervisor: Lyndsay Stakenas Coldwater Office................. 231-519-2455

Ovid 989-834-2221 Plant Manager/Plant Operations David Wittkop

If you are unable to reach your assigned member representative, contact any one of the representatives listed in your area.

MMPA LABS Novi: 800-572-5824 (in MI)

800-233-2405 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mon-Fri

Preston Cole............................231-584-2587 Mancelona mobile 989-289-9301

Krista Beeker.................................................

Howe, IN mobile 269-986-6792

Katie Pierson.................................................

Coleman mobile 989-289-9686

David Brady............................517-522-5965 Grass Lake mobile 517-937-9061

Ovid: 989-834-2515 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily

Kendra Stieg..................................................

Hudsonville mobile 269-245-6632

Lyndsay Stakenas..........................................

Coldwater mobile 231-519-2455

Constantine: 800-391-7560 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily

Gerry Volz...............................989-848-5996 Fairview mobile 989-289-9219

Elyse Wilcox...................................................

mobile 810-701-6460 Ed Zuchnik....................................................

Three Rivers mobile 269-967-7351

MERCHANDISE—ST. LOUIS Supervisor: Duane Farmer..989-681-2334 Fax........................................989-681-3988 Toll Free...............................877-367-6455 Orders (Novi)...800-572-5824 then dial 2

Michigan Milk Messenger 35

36 July 2012