Michigan Milk Messenger: October 2013

Messenger Michigan Milk

The official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association

Inside

www.mimilk.com Vol. 96 Issue 4 October 2013

The 2013 OYDCs • Green Cedar Dairy • Budgeting

contents Michigan Milk Messenger EDITOR’S LETTER

4

MMPA Matters

6 8

Quality Watch

MMPAC an Integral Part of MMPA Mission

Changes Slated for MMPA Quality Premium Program

News & Views

USDA Report to Congress Shows Dairy Checkoff Partnerships Benefit Producers

10 Legislative Watch

MMPA Advisory Committee Meets with State Legislators

12

FEATURES

12

Walking the Line 2013 OYDC Mike and Jordan Noll

15

Budgeting a Must for Today’s Dairy Farmers

Dairying with a 18 Double “X”

Messenger

October 2013

2013 OYDC Runners-up Jeff and Chriss Carmichael

2

12

Managing Editor............................. Sheila Burkhardt Editors.............. Laura Moser, Alex Schnabelrauch 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.

18 41310 Bridge St. Telephone: 248-474-6672 P.O. Box 8002 FAX: 248-474-0924 Novi, MI 48376-8002 www.mimilk.com

Periodical postage paid at Novi, MI and at additional offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Michigan Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002.

(ISSN 0026-2315)

20 20 Livestock Haulers 22 Fined for RFID Violations

Customer Spotlight Green Cedar Dairy

Departments 28 Merchandise 29 Quality Premiums 30 Freeliners 32 Classifieds 33 Policies 34 Market Report 35 Staff

Cover Story Mike and Jordan Noll begin their tenure as the 2013 MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators. Read about their farm and family beginning on page 12.

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

District Directors 1. Hank Choate, Cement City 2. Tim Hood, Paw Paw 4. Dan Javor, Hastings 5. Brent Wilson, Carson City 6. Brad Ritter, Byron 7. James Reid, Jeddo 8. Leonard Brown, Sandusky 10. Eric Frahm, Frankenmuth 11. Bob Kran, Free Soil 12. John Kronemeyer, Pickford

517-529-9032 269-657-5771 269-948-8345 989-584-3481 810-266-4091 810-327-6830 810-648-4505 989-652-3552 231-464-5889 906-647-7638

For listing of other MMPA leaders visit mimilk.com

October 2013

Officers: President: Ken Nobis Vice President: Bob Kran Treasurer: Mark Halbert General Manager/Secretary: Clay Galarneau Assistant Treasurer: Joe Diglio General Counsel: Todd Hoppe

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

Messenger

Board of Directors

3

MMPA Matters Ken Nobis

by

President

MMPAC an Integral Part of MMPA Mission When MMPA formulated its mission statement “to market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible” more than three decades ago, I doubt we had any thoughts that a wellfunded Political Action Committee (PAC) would be such an integral part of carrying out that mission.

MMPA delegates at the most recent annual meeting adopted a resolution that strongly encourages each member to make a contribution to the PAC in the amount of $1.00 per cow. In the past, the recommendation had been for each farm to contribute $5.00 per month, but the new benchmark is more equitable in view of the diversity of herd size of our membership. This resolution reaffirms the importance of coming together in an organized way to have the greatest impact on government legislation and regulation that affect dairy farmers and agriculture.

When I joined the board, I learned board members are expected to contribute to the MMPA PAC, but this was a bitter pill for me to swallow back then.

We like to think that our elected officials will listen to us simply because we are their constituents.

The reality is, with the cost of election campaigns today, they seem to retain a lot more of the information that we provide if it is accompanied by a campaign contribution.

Messenger

October 2013

Before that, I had always been involved in the political process, but I wanted to do my own thing, sending contributions here and there to politicians who I thought were deserving. Over the years, I gained an understanding of the value of pooling our money to make things happen.

4

I still contribute to individual candidates, but that can’t come close to the effectiveness of PAC dollars. I realize now that an individual supporter has neither the access to all the information necessary to make informed decisions on all the issues facing us, nor the time to digest it and interpret it, even if the information could be assembled for easy access.

The PAC money makes it possible for us to perform in a market that has become global rather than domestic. Fair trade laws are important today, and we can’t possibly navigate those waters on our own. We must work with representatives to put the dairy industry in a good position.

Keeping MMPA and the dairy industry on the radar screen of our elected representatives as they make decisions that affect not only us but the people who consume our product is critical.

Michigan is unique, because we have many elected officials in Washington D.C. who are heavily involved in making decisions that affect agriculture. They take the time to meet with industry representatives to keep current on our industry and to understand our perspective so they can make informed decisions. Their support is valued, and maintaining those relationships requires attention.

Our PAC dollars are also hard at work outside of Washington. At the local level, these dollars have helped educate elected officials who have little knowledge – and instead often have misinformation – about our industry.

Many elected officials and industry representatives are eager to learn about our industry, but others continue to make decisions with little or no knowledge of what we do and how important it is to our state and federal economies. They sometimes wrongly interpret the impact of our industry on those who consume our product.

The responsibility falls on us to address this so that the dairy industry’s needs, and those of our customers, are correctly understood by state and national lawmakers and policy makers. Please accept the recommendation of your delegates, and contribute a minimum of $1.00 per cow to the MMPA PAC. We can work together to make a difference.

2 June 2012

QUALITY Watch Dean Letter

by

Director, Member Services

Changes Slated for MMPA Quality Premium Program For the past couple of years, MMPA members needed to comply with the European Union Somatic Cell requirement of 400,000 cells/mL at the farm level.

While this requirement is more stringent than the Grade A legal limit of 750,000, MMPA members comply with the requirement very well.

For a number of MMPA customers, the somatic cell count continues to be viewed as a key milk quality indicator. Some require a lower SCC than the European Union. In order for MMPA to generate the greatest return to its membership, it is important for MMPA member milk to be of sufficient quality to meet the requirements of the intended market.

Messenger

October 2013

SCC (cells/mL)

6

Premium

50,000 or below

+55¢/cwt.

51,000-75,000

+50¢/cwt.

76,000-100,000

+45¢/cwt.

101,000-125,000

+40¢/cwt.

126,000-150,000

+35¢/cwt.

151,000-175,000

+30¢/cwt.

176,000-200,000

+25¢/cwt.

201,000-225,000

+20¢/cwt.

226,000-250,000

+15¢/cwt.

251,000-300,000

+00¢/cwt.

301,000-400,000

- 30¢/cwt.

401,000-500,000

-$1.00/cwt.

501,000-600,000

-$1.50/cwt.

601,000 and greater

-$2.00/cwt.

The MMPA board of directors recently approved changes to the SCC premium program, (see highlighted sections on chart). The changes provide a disincentive to members with elevated SCC levels.

The change will take effect with January 2014 milk production and will be reflected on the February 17 milk check.

Members that may be adversely affected by this change are encouraged to work with their herd veterinarian and member representative to develop a mastitis management plan to reduce their SCC.

Calf Care Schools Coming This Winter Member enrollment in the National Dairy FARM (Farmers Assuring Responsible Management) Program continues to grow. The goals and objectives of the FARM Program are to bolster consumer trust and confidence in the U.S. dairy industry and demonstrate the industry’s commitment to the highest levels of animal care and quality assurance. This is achieved

by MMPA member representatives conducting on-farm evaluations of animal care followed by thirdparty verification on a statistically significant sample of the enrolled farms.

To assist our members in staying current on animal care practices, MMPA and Land O’Lakes Animal Milk Products Co. (LOL AMP) are planning calf care schools for December and January. Information will be sent to members once the plans are finalized.

The National Dairy FARM Program recommends farms document all employee training for new and existing employees on an annual basis. The MMPA/LOL AMP calf care school will help fulfill this recommendation in this area of animal care. The meeting will be classroom style with enrollment limited to 25, so reserve your spot early.

The winter meetings will cover the following items and will also provide input to develop or modify standard operation procedures (SOPs) for calf care.

• Feeding and managing colostrum or colostrum replacer • Maintaining biosecurity with the newborn calf (dipping navels, separating from the dam, etc.)

• Enhancing calf nutrition until weaned to stimulate rumen development • Practicing proper water management to maintain proper hydration • Discussing and reviewing vaccinations for common calfhood diseases • Maintaining animal identification and animal health records • Meeting calf housing, bedding and space requirements • Providing for calves during extreme temperatures Please contact Marianne Gasiewski at the Novi office if you are interested in attending a calf training care school. She can be contacted at 800-572-5824 ext. 215.

MASTICARE WITH LSA TECHNOLOGY KILLS VIRTUALLY ON CONTACT AND KEEPS WORKING, MAKING IT BOTH AN EXCELLENT PRE- AND POST-DIP SOLUTION. LSA technology also gives you more powerful broad spectrum protection. It kills mastitis-causing pathogens, including bacteria, fungi and viruses. Even when exposed to high levels of organic contaminants, which can lower the effectiveness of other traditional non-iodine dips, MASTICARE stays as effective as iodine. It’s gentle too. You’ll see less irritation and smoother softer teats, in all kinds of weather. That means better teat sanitation, lower somatic cell counts and improved milkability throughout your herd.

www.AandL-Labs.com www.AandL-Labs.com • 800-225-3832 1001 Glenwood Ave. N., Minneapolis, MN 55405

NEWS & Views

Milk Prices Up from July

USDA Report to Congress Shows Dairy Checkoff Partnerships Benefit Producers

The USDA announced that August’s Federal Order Class III price is up 53 cents from July, at $17.91 per cwt. That price is 18 cents higher than August 2012, making the 2013 Class III average $17.72 through the first eight months of the year. The August Class IV price is up 17 cents, resting at $19.07 per cwt.

Dairy checkoff partnerships formed by Dairy Management Inc. (DMI) have a positive impact on sales, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s annual Report to Congress.

NASS to Resume Milk Production Surveys in October USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will resume milk production quarterly producer surveys in the new federal fiscal year, which begins October 1, 2013. NASS suspended the surveys in April of this year to meet the budget reductions required by sequestration.

The agency uses information gathered in the quarterly surveys along with various sources of administrative data to establish the monthly milk production estimates. With the quarterly surveys, the dairy cow and milk per cow statistics will once again be available. These are critical data points for interested parties, like MMPA, to forecast future milk supply. The program will resume with a late September mailing of the survey form to producers and the release of resulting data on October 21.

Messenger

October 2013

Upcoming Events

8

November

25 MMPA Leaders’ Conference

East Lansing

An analysis of DMI’s partnership with Domino’s Pizza from 2009 to 2011 shows the benefit-to-cost ratio (BCR) of $7.70 for every checkoff dollar invested. This compares to a BCR of 3.9 for the entire checkoff before such partnerships began. The conclusions came from a new evaluation model designed by Texas A&M University that reflects the broad range of checkoff activities that work to grow demand for dairy.

“This report verifies the checkoff’s business strategy of working with and through partners instead of traditional generic advertising and promotion,” said Paul Rovey, Arizona dairy producer and chair of DMI, which manages the national dairy checkoff. “Working with partners such as Domino’s and others clearly extends our resources and our return.”

In addition to the partnership return, dairy export promotion activities conducted by the dairy producer-created U.S. Dairy Export Council generated a 6.1 percent increase in dairy exports on a fat basis and a 3.1 percent increase on a skim solids basis. The BCR for export promotion was 8.12 on a fat basis and 15.9 on a skim solids basis.

Dairy Exports Top $612 Million in July In July, U.S. exports were equivalent to 17.6 percent of milk production (totalsolids basis), the highest proportion ever, marking the fourth straight month in which the export percentage topped 15 percent. This is a significant jump from the plateau established in the last few years; in the previous 36 months, the export percentage averaged 13.3 percent.

On a volume basis, exporters shipped 178,101 tons of milk powder, cheese, butterfat, whey and lactose in July, up 32 percent from last year. NDM/SMP shipments remained strong at 51,652 tons, up 61 percent and the fourth straight month exceeding 48,000 tons. Exports of cheese (+22 percent), butterfat (+166 percent), lactose (+27 percent), dry whey (+24 percent) and whey protein isolate (+33 percent) all were significantly higher than yearago levels. July exports were valued at $612.6 million, up 55 percent. That brought year-to-date values to $3.72 billion.

NEWS & Views

MMPA Employee Celebrates 50 Years with the Co-op Pete Darling, a member of the building maintenance crew at MMPA’s Ovid Plant, recently celebrated five decades working with the co-op. Originally hired as a butter packer in January 1963, Pete has helped serve MMPA dairy farmers in multiple roles throughout his tenure.

But despite numerous position and shift changes, his loyalty and work ethic have been a constant, continuously adding value to the Ovid team.

Producers scoring 95 percent or more on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Rating Organic Valley Lagrange August 2013

Gasper Calandrino, Ovid Plant engineer, comments, “Pete has been a valued member of our team for half a century. We appreciate his dedicated work ethic and big-picture understanding of the cooperative. We’re grateful for his loyalty and many years of service.”

Glen Mast Toby Yoder* Harley Schrock Maynard/Laura Lehman Mervin Hochstetler* Vernon Miller Dennis Yoder Jacob Weaver* Allen Troyer Richard Lambright Elmer Schrock

*Scored 100 percent

BEDDING

Call Tom to order your load today 616-886-0810

Messenger

It is super dry highly absorbant wood fines!

October 2013

This is the best!

9

Legislative

MMPA Advisory Committee Meets with State Legislators

Messenger

October 2013

S

10

everal Michigan State Senators and Representatives took time to meet with members of the MMPA Advisory Committee on Sept. 11.

The legislators and staff joined the committee members during their quarterly meeting in Lansing for a special legislative luncheon.

our elected officials is incredibly important; we need that leadership looking out for us in Lansing and Washington, D.C. As Advisory Committee members, we’re from dairies of all shapes and sizes, represent all member farms and pass on our own and our neighbors’ concerns to legislators and board members firsthand.”

MMPA Advisory Committee member Bill Stakenas from Freesoil explains, “We were able to talk with our legislators and help them understand what we do on our farms on a daily basis. Talking to

Prior to the luncheon, Dennis Muchmore, chief of staff for Gov. Snyder, reaffirmed the governor’s commitment and belief in Michigan agriculture while fielding members’ questions. MMPA member Sen.

Judy Emmons (R-Sheridan) then addressed the group, thanking them for their hard work and dedication. During the luncheon, the committee heard from former MMPA member Kevin Daley (R-Lum), chair of the House Ag Committee, who relayed his committee’s agenda items in the coming weeks.

Left: Chief of Staff for Gov. Snyder Dennis Muchmore addresses the MMPA Advisory Committee during their recent meeting in Lansing.

Above: MMPA Treasurer Mark Halbert discusses some of the issues facing Michigan dairy farmers with Rep. Kate Segal (D-Battle Creek) during the MMPA Advisory Committee legislative luncheon.

Above: MMPA member Sen. Judy Emmons (R-Sheridan) addresses the Advisory Committee, thanking them for their tireless efforts and encouraging them to stay in touch with state and federal legislators.

Top right: Rep. Tom Leonard (R-Dewitt, left) updates Mid-Michigan area dairy farmers, including Kris Wardin (right), on current initiatives in the Michigan House of Representatives.

Bottom Right: Jim Good gives Rep. Lisa Posthumus Lyons (R-Lowell) an update on the impending harvest and challenges facing dairy farmers in Kent County.

MMPAC Challenge

Support the MMPAC and you could be supporting one of your favorite charities!

Contributions must be postmarked by November 6, 2013 to qualify for the MMPAC Challenge. The winning local will be announced at Leaders’ Conference on Monday, Nov. 25.

Messenger

The winning local can select from the following organizations: • Michigan 4-H Foundation • Michigan FFA Foundation • Michigan Dairy Memorial and Scholarship Foundation • United Way • Local charity with approval by MMPA board of directors

October 2013

MMPA will award the MMPA local with the highest percentage of members contributing to the MMPAC a matching gift (up to $1,000) to the local’s choice of one of five selected charity organizations or youth foundations.

11

COVER STORY

By Alex Schnabelrauch

Walking the Line 2013 OYDC Mike and Jordan Noll

M

ulti-generational dairy farming can be a tightrope walk. Sports practices, 4-H, clubs, meetings and sleepovers make it far from easy to balance the hard work, time and sweat needed to maintain a family farm. Add in the mentality of today’s Generation Z, and things get downright hairy.

But, 2013 OYDCs Mike and Jordan Noll are trying, like many other young cooperators, to have the best of both worlds.

“It’s a fine line, showing kids the need and importance of investing time on the farm and balancing life beyond our dirt road,” Mike explains.

“We do our best to be involved off the farm with our kids while still running an effective, efficient business. It’s a balancing act.”

Living by an End-of-theDay Checklist

Messenger

October 2013

Instead of dwelling on a neverending farm “to do” list, the Nolls gauge success much differently.

“When you own your own business, you can work every hour of every day and still never catch up. So instead of dwelling on what we could be doing, we stay focused on a daily checklist,” Mike softly smiles.

12

Farming with Mike’s parents, Mike and Lynne, and brother and sisterin-law, Mark and Brandy, the Nolls’ priorities revolve around three questions: Did we get what needed to be done, done? Did we spend some time with our family? Did we keep the extended family content?

“If we can say yes to all three when the sun goes down, it was a good

day,” Jordan grins. Grounded with this firm handle on the family’s priorities, Mike and Jordan don’t often stray from their easy-going, grounded, positive demeanors.

Coping with Urban Sprawl

But, after a phone call just halfway through our visit, it was evident there was one issue sure to impassion every member of the Noll family: Above: Mike and Jordan Noll of Croswell neighbor relations. were named 2013 MMPA OYDC following the annual OYDC Conference in August.

Driving through the small, rural town of Roseburg before hosting over 200 neighbors to turning down the Nolls’ dirt road, an annual hog roast, the Nolls it seems as if this part of Michigan are doing their part to educate couldn’t get more rural. Yet, Port and be good neighbors. But with Huron is just 20 miles away. approximately 75 percent of the surrounding population unfamiliar In search of their own “little piece of with dairy or agriculture in general, the country,” many urban residents, it’s an uphill battle. unaccustomed to typical on-farm practices, purchase homes around “We’ve hosted farm tours and, Nolls Dairy Farm Inc. Mike and when funds were too low to fund Jordan can speak about the large transportation, took our farm to disconnect between farmers and consumers from experience, being accused of everything from spreading “black tar” on fields (and working it in with a big green tractor) to kicking up too much dust with their tractors.

Using farm equipment to plow surrounding residential driveways and

Above: The Nolls do their best to balance farm work with community involvement as they try to keep the next generation – Jake, Rece, Joey and Riley (left to right) – interested in the family business.

the school,” Jordan says. “Our relationship started with a farm tour, and we do our best to continue educating the community on our way of life. It’s not easy, but it’s our job to tell our story so the next generation will still have the opportunity to farm if they choose.”

And the Rest is History

Outsiders would never guess Jordan is comparatively “new” to the farm scene.

It all started in 1999 when she brought her class of third graders to the farm for a field trip; 13 years later, she’s still there.

“Another teacher gave Mike my number.

He called and asked me to go to Big Boy for coffee. Dating happened riding in tractors. And the next year we were married,” Jordan laughs. A crash course in dairy farming and four kids later, Mike and Jordan have watched the dairy herd quadruple and acreage double.

Now, Jordan stays at home with the kids while Mike and his brother, Mark, operate the farm. The fourth generation, Mike and Mark have diversified the operation, feeding between 150-200 beef cattle and cash cropping additional acreage.

The farm has grown. The number of families it supports has expanded.

But the same commitment to producing quality products while focusing on family remains. “We do our best to do things right while being involved in our community and making memories as a family. At the end of the day, it’s all about walking that fine line and balancing business and family,” Mike concludes.

Mike and Jordan Noll District 8 OYDC Mid-Sanilac Local Children: Jake (11), Joey (10), Rece (6) and Riley (4) Herd Size: 260 milking, 50 dry Replacements: 300 Acres Farmed: 2,000 Crops Grown: corn, soybeans, alfalfa, wheat, sugar beets and dry beans Milking Regiment: two-a-day milking in a double-5 herringbone parlor Sustainable Practices: reclaimed plate cooler water, variable rate fertilizer application, TMR tracker Breeding Program: AI with a cleanup bull Education: Mike received a two-year agribusiness degree from Michigan State University in 1998 and Jordan graduated from Calvin College with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, also in 1998.

Messenger

Above: Since Mike began working full-time on his parents’ farm, the Nolls’ dairy herd has quadrupled and acreage has doubled.

Ag, Dairy and Community Involvement: Mike and Jordan both serve as 4-H club leaders. Mike has served as an MMPA delegate. He’s on the Fremont Township Parks and Recreation Committee and is an alternate on the Zoning Board of Appeals, vice president of the Sanilac County Farm Bureau, finalist for the Michigan Farm Bureau achievement award and a youth basketball coach. Jordan plans kindergarten farm tours and conducts various dairy promotion events at local schools. She’s the local little league secretary and has served on the Sanilac County Dairy Banquet Planning Committee and county Breakfast on the Farm Planning Committee and volunteers for Project RED.

October 2013

Certifications/Training: FARM certified, MAEAP verified in cropping systems

13

Anticipate. Prepare. Protect.

Facilitator’s Guide Anticipate. Prepare. Protect.

Help protect your farm from undercover videos It’s important to remember that the majority of the U.S. population has a positive perception of dairy farming, and believes dairy producers take good care of their animals. But although they represent a very small percentage of the public, animal activists are not going away anytime soon.

The United Dairy Industry of Michigan is sponsoring workshops throughout the state called “Anticipate.

Prepare. Protect” to help dairy producers better understand how activist groups work, and assist you in becoming aware and prepared to deal with being the target of an undercover video.

Undercover videos perpetuate the challenge dairy producers face each day – ensuring our consumers support how we farm, how we produce food and that we are firmly committed to responsible animal care.

This training will help you: • Prevent the risk of an undercover video on your farm • Learn to identify suspicious activity on your farm • Reinforce to your employees your zero-tolerance policy for improper animal treatment • Publicly respond to an undercover video • Recover from an attack by an animal activist group and their undercover video

Join us for dinner and this interactive, educational session at one of these locations:

5:00 p.m. Welcome 5:15 p.m. Dinner 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Workshop

November 7, 2013 United Dairy Industry of MI Okemos, MI

December 10, 2013 Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Airport Kentwood, MI

November 6, 2013 Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Lodge Frankenmuth, MI

December 9, 2013 Quality Inn West Branch, MI

December 11, 2013 Holiday Inn Kalamazoo Kalamazoo, MI

Messenger

October 2013

November 5, 2013 Holiday Inn Jackson NW Airport Jackson, MI

Space is limited so please RSVP for the November meetings by October 22, 2013 and the December meetings by November 25, 2013 to Michelle Hart at mhart@udim.org or 1800-241-MILK (6455)

14

By Alex Schnabelrauch

Budgeting a “Must” for Today’s Dairymen

K

eeping track of farm financials can be overwhelming. Money continually coming in from milk checks, cull cows and crops. Money constantly going out for feed, labor, bedding, veterinary services… the list goes on.

Barb has over 14 years of experience providing management, financial and organizational consulting services to Michigan dairymen and agriculturalists. A numbers woman by trade, she’s helped a variety of dairy producers – big and small – gauge their progress and set a course for meeting long-term goals through accurate record keeping, goal setting and benchmarking.

As margins have tightened and competition has grown, vigilant on-farm financial management has

Above: Jeff and Mike Halfman (left to right) gather around the kitchen table to discuss their operation’s progress toward the targeted budget. become less of an option and more of a necessity. Barb offers insight on industry trends, the purpose of budgeting and “getting started” tips to make the budgeting process less daunting.

The Industry Today

“I’m really seeing three trends throughout the agricultural sector, primarily dairy,” Barb shares. “The first, farms are embarking on expansion efforts – for the right reasons. Second, producers are beginning to beef-up their record keeping, going above and beyond what regulations mandate. And third, everyone is trying to focus more on marketing to reduce price volatility.”

While growth is not a new dairy trend, Barb notes today’s

expansion efforts seem to be markedly different. “They’re very deliberate and planned in detail, as opposed to the more reactive growth projects of 2007 and 2008,” she comments. As producers are starting to recover from the economic shock of 2009, farms are growing for two calculated, appropriate reasons – preparing for successors and spreading overhead – consistent with each operation’s long-term plans.

The second trend comes from a major shift of mindset; dairy producers formerly kept records for compliance reasons, but now realize additional efforts are needed to enhance their profitability and efficiency. Steve Cary, owner of Cary Dairy in Battle Creek, explains, “I have to keep some records for compliance reasons. But those Continued on page 16

October 2013

But, Barb Dartt, partner at GROW: The Family Business Advisors, reminds dairy farmers, “Contrary to popular belief, starting the budgeting process might not be as difficult as you’d expect. Keeping in mind a few easy tips, every operation, regardless of size or scope, can get started and begin charting their own path toward long-term profitability.”

Messenger

Sometimes cash flow statements can look more like Egyptian hieroglyphics than helpful record keeping tools, making deciphering a farm’s current financial situation intimidating and, occasionally, frustrating.

15

Continued from page 15 records often don’t include all the information we need to best manage our operation. I have to admit, I run off-the-cuff a lot, making decisions based on emotions or my ‘gut.’ Often it is because the records are not as extensive or current as they should be. That’s why we gather more information, to have more points of reference as we plan for the future.”

Finally, in an effort to buffer margins against the harsh, volatile dairy product and input markets, many modern producers have improved their knowledge of marketing. A large percentage of MMPA members have realized the power and importance of forward contracting feed, crop inputs and, in some cases, milk to lock in as many pricing variables as possible.

These three industry trends have necessitated a renewed focus on a tried-and-true farm financial management tool: budgeting.

Messenger

October 2013

The Case for Budgeting

16

“Effective budgeting requires detailed records. On our farm, it’s important to be able to track how the business is doing as the year progresses, keeping track of small things that may have changed from the previous year or looking at the bottom line to determine if we’re on track (or not),” Mike Halfman, co-owner of T & H Dairy II in St. Johns, relays.

“Watching individual line items helps us notice when something is out of line. It allows us to dig into the item and either say, ‘Man that’s working,’ or, ‘What’s going wrong there?’”

While the obvious advantage is helping track a farm’s current position and progress towards financial goals, another tangible budgeting benefit is keeping all of the farm’s leaders apprised of the farm’s current operations and future trajectory.

Barb adds, “Budgeting and benchmarking can provide an opportunity for knowledge transfer between multiple generations involved in an operation. By taking the time to meet two to four times a year and using the actual-to-budget review as a ‘ready-made’ agenda for a big picture discussion about the farm’s direction, experience and knowledge are passed on to partners who may otherwise be left out of the decision making process.”

Budgeting Tips to Get you Off on the Right Foot

Doug Chapin, co-owner of Chapin Family Farm in Remus, offers simple advice to producers beginning the budgeting process for the first time, saying, “Set goals, keep good records and keep the communication lines open to those involved on the farm. Understand budgeting in the dairy business is not an exact science. Prices are volatile and variables change. But a well thought out budget can help a farm weather the storm of a low price swing.”

Insuring Your Farm’s Protection Hastings Mutual has specialized in insuring farms since 1885. Plus, you receive a 10% farm policy discount with your MMPA membership!

In addition to our standard farm policy, we offer an optional Parlor Pak to meet the needs of your dairy farm.

Parlor Pak Endorsement: • $20,000 Milk Spoilage • $5,000 Reproductive Material • $50,000 Sudden and Accidental Pollution • $50,000 Farm Business Income and Extra Expense • Special All Risk Parlor Peril Coverage

Contact your local Hastings Mutual agent today!

Ayres Insurance (Southwest Michigan) www.theayres-group.com 269-651-1761 Clevenger Insurance Agency, Inc. (South Central/Eastern Michigan) www.clevengerinsuranceagency.com 517-368-5771 Liebler Agency, Inc. (Eastern Michigan/Thumb) www.liebleragency.com 810-346-2738 Barnich Kavanaugh & Cooper, BKC Ins. (Northern Michigan) www.bkcinsurance.com 231-627-4381

et g o t y Read are e r e H ? d e t r a t s rb’s a B f o a few ze i m i x a m tips to ess n e v i t c the effe geting ud b e h t f o . process

1. Make Budgeting a Joint Exercise, Starting with Operations Each on-farm manager has his/her own specialty area and viewpoint. Ask everyone involved in the budgeting process to bring their own piece of the financial puzzle by sharing what they think is expected during next year’s operations.

That might be planned acres for each crop, expected yields, volume and cost of getting the manure hauled or how much the cows will milk. This gets a broader group involved in the process. And the process is almost more important than the outcome. Just providing the format for a meeting a few times a year can really foster strong family and/or management communications on the businesses’ progress toward meeting goals. In addition, it starts a budget based on production data, not just what happened last year.

2. Have an Accounting and Operational Champion

Numbers without hands-on knowledge of the dairy tells only one side of the story and vice versa. Barb explains, “You have to have someone who’s passionate, committed and knowledgeable about the financial side of the business. Likewise, you need someone equally as passionate, dedicated and experienced with the day-to-day operation of the farm. When these two minds meet, that’s when the most accurate and effective budgets are created.”

3. Fostering Trust is a Must Budgeting is only as effective as the level of trust all parties possess in regards to the accuracy and intentions of those formulating the budget. Mike elaborates, “In our operation, it’s very important for everyone involved to feel like they have the same access to information. Finances are a touchy thing, especially when it’s inside the same family. Everyone needs to know the truth about how things are going, good or bad, to eliminate as many surprises as possible and keep trust and order.”

4. Don’t Get Hung Up on the How

Cash might be king in the short run. But an operation’s longevity depends on profitability in the long run. Unless cash is tight (less than $400 of working capital per cow) and there’s low liquidity, opt for income statements to better project and set goals for profitability in the long run.

Messenger

5. Use Accrual Budgets

October 2013

The act of actually starting some sort of detailed record keeping and budgeting protocol is far more important than what brand is utilized. Barb recommends checking out resources offered by the Pennsylvania State Dairy Alliance and Michigan State University, but comments even a simple spreadsheet will do. An effective budgeting tool has the ability to trace line items back to production assumptions. For example, within feed cost, you might start by looking at the total actual line item compared to budget. However, if actual is over budget, you will want to dig a bit deeper to determine why. That’s why the assumptions you used to build the budget are critical. Was the assumption simply a dollars per cow per year or was total feed cost built by using representative rations and pricing by feed ingredient? More detail makes it easier to determine a farm’s progress toward budgeting goals and identify differences from year to year.

17

By Alex Schnabelrauch

Dairying with a Double “X” 2013 OYDC Runner-up Jeff and Chriss Carmichael

I

f the dairy industry is a man’s world, someone forgot to tell Chriss Carmichael.

The youngest of three daughters, the 33 year-old mom is the only successor interested in continuing the family farm currently owned by her parents, Jerry and Lynn Mitchell. Along with her husband, Jeff – who grew up on a dairy, but has worked off the farm for UPS for 15 years – Chriss aims to add to the Cedar Grove Dairy Farm legacy and prepare the business for many generations to come.

No More Boys Club

Messenger

October 2013

Whether surveying MMPA local meeting attendees or reading names of the co-op’s field staff in the back of this magazine, one thing is evident: the number of females working in dairy is rising. But for Chriss’s family, women aren’t a new fixture in the milkhouse, parlor and freestall barn.

18

“When my grandparents met up with other dairy farmer friends, my grandma didn’t have anything to talk to the women about. She could do everything my grandpa did on the farm and would have rather been talking ‘shop’ with the men than sharing recipes,” Chriss explains. “Today, dairy is no longer just a man’s world. I can do field work. I can unload hay. I can AI. I can milk cows. I was raised with no distinction between women’s and men’s work on the farm. And it seems like the industry is starting to reflect this reversal of dairy gender trends.”

Committed to continuing this trend, Chriss mentors other young girls and women interested in dairy and agriculture. As a 4-H club leader and agricultural issues discussion group leader, she hopes to encourage other women that there is a place in the industry for Above: Chriss and Jeff Carmichael, them. pictured with their son, Emmett, were named 2013 MMPA OYDC Runner-up.

Chriss acknowledges, though, she couldn’t be as active with off-farm troubleshoot calf care issues. “That organizations without the tireless support of her husband and parents. woman taught me everything I know! Now she’s helping pass on that knowledge to my son and, at But Jeff remarks, “I wouldn’t have 89, still shares her knowledge and it any other way! I’ve always loved experience to help improve the farming ever since I was a kid. Even family farm,” Chriss smiles. when I started working for UPS, I still spent weekends working with While calf care is still her favorite my dad on the family farm. Even on-farm pastime, Chriss can and has though my dad sold our dairy, I done it all. From milking to doing still get to be a part of a family crop work, keeping the books to dairy farm and enjoy helping Chriss treating cows, she lends a hand continue our families’ agricultural wherever she’s needed. “Originally, legacy.”

I wanted to be a vet and spent two summers interning at local vet clinic.

From Prayers to Parlors But I realized I could do vet, lab One of Chriss’s biggest role models, her grandmother, Wilma, still remembers Chriss helping feed calves as a child and, in reference to a very sick calf, asking “Grandma, what can I do to help this calf get better?”

Wilma replied, “Pray.”

And Chriss did.

A few decades later, Chriss still has a passion for calves and occasionally calls on her grandmother to

Above: From milking to breeding, Chriss is an active part of her parents’ operation.

and nutrition work back here on the family farm. Being a dairy farmer, I get to do a lot of single jobs in the course of one day,” Chriss explains.

Spreading the Word

A natural teacher, Chriss never turns down a chance to advocate for agriculture and share her farm’s story. So when local leaders were looking for centennial farms to help start the Osceola County Quilt Block Trail, Chriss and her family couldn’t wait to submit their application.

Three years later, over 100 quilt blocks adorn Reed City High School, the post office, fire department and Cedar Grove Dairy Farm – each with its own story to tell.

Jeff and Chriss Carmichael District 5 OYDC Evart Local Children: Emmett (1)

Replacements: 100 She might not fit the typical maleAcres Farmed: 1,200 centric farmer stereotype, but Chriss is a part of the changing face of Crops Grown: corn, alfalfa, wheat, oats and rye the Michigan dairy and agriculture Milking Regiment: two-a-Day milking in a double-6 herringbone parlor industry. Despite its challenges, Sustainable Practices: soil sampling, slow-release liquid nitrogen, zone this passionate teacher, enthusiastic tilling dairywoman and fifth generation farmer is committed to adding her Breeding Program: AI with a cleanup bull for heifers story to the family’s 127-year farm Education: Jeff completed the MSU Dairy Management Program in history.

1995,Chriss graduated from MSU with a bachelor’s And with a degree in Animal Science in 2002. supportive husband, Certifications/Training: FARM certified, MAEAP beautiful verified in cropping systems son and Ag, Dairy and Community Involvement: Jeff and family full of Chriss have co-led the Dairy Lads and Lassies 4-H strong female group for seven years and the Osceola County Farm dairywomen Bureau Chat and Chew discussion group for five years. by her side, Chriss served on the county’s Breakfast on the Farm Chriss’s story planning committee in 2012 and has been her church’s is sure to be a financial secretary for 10 years.

The Carmichaels’ 125-year-old hip roof barn page turner. is a point-of-interest for hundreds of tourists each year as a part of the Osceola County Quilt Block Trail.

September 2013 October 2013

Herd Size: 170 milking, 20 dry

Messenger Messenger

Especially popular with tourists in the area for fall color tours, many vehicles slow down, stop and snap pictures in front of the Mitchells’ and Carmichaels’ 125-year-old hip roof barn. Some even venture onto the property for an impromptu farm tour. “They aren’t supposed to, but we have had a handful of interested spectators ask for tours,” Chriss adds.

19 19

By Alex Schnabelrauch

Customer Spotlight: Green Cedar Dairy A Family Dairy Business, Minus the Cows

L

ike many of our farm stories, the major themes of this piece are hard work, unshakable character and an intense focus on family. But, unlike the norm, its subject lives in urban Dearborn, spent his childhood in Lebanon and gets his milk from a stainless steel bulk tank.

Samir Harb – family man, entrepreneur and owner of Green Cedar Dairy – has never, in fact, set foot on a dairy farm. Yet, appreciates and admires dairy farmers more than most, saying, “Like dairy farmers, when the cows are working, we’re working. We work on holidays and Saturdays to keep our business afloat and to satisfy the needs of our customers. MMPA members provide us with high quality milk to make our products; we also want to turn out a superior quality product for our customers.”

Messenger

October 2013

The only Middle Eastern dairy product processor in the state, Samir has carved out his place in the Middle Eastern capitol of the country, fulfilling a need for “tastes like back home” products. Along with his wife (Amal), sons (Sam and Weesam) and daughter (Farah), Samir is working to continue his own family business investing long hours and tireless effort to forge his own family legacy.

20

Capitalizing on a Niche Market

Specializing in a host of Middle Eastern cheese and yogurt products, Green Cedar Dairy ships products to 50 stores and customers throughout the state.

Above: Holding one of Green Cedar Dairy’s most popular products, shanina (a buttermilk yogurt drink), owner Samir Harb knows the joys and struggles of keeping a family dairy business afloat.

“We deliver products to Wayne and Macomb counties five days a week.

Most of our customers are smaller ethnic markets and bakeries like Greenland Market, Dearborn Fresh Supermarket and Papaya Fruit Market. People know and like that our products come from local milk and are manufactured locally,” Samir explains with a smile.

One of his sons, Sam, elaborates, “We have a great reputation with local consumers looking for Middle Eastern dairy products. We hear, on a consistent basis, that our products remind our customers of the yogurt or cheese they would eat back home in the Middle East. We’re filling a huge need and demand among first, second and third generation immigrants looking for the tastes of home.”

While they might not be household product names for many MMPA members, Green Cedar Dairy’s products include: shanina (a buttermilk yogurt drink), laban (plain yogurt), labneh (creamy yogurt spread), ackawi cheese (white and salty), chives cheese and nabulsi cheese (boiled with black caraway seeds). In addition, the company imports an assortment of European cheeses for resale.

Buying milk exclusively from MMPA since 2007, Green Cedar Dairy offloads 90,000 pounds of milk and 3,250 pounds of milk powder from Constantine each month. From customer service to milk quality, Samir loyally sticks with MMPA as his only milk and milk powder supplier.

“I graduated from Shell Oil Company, and I tried a variety of businesses before purchasing the dairy. But I’ve realized that you’ve got to like your job. This company allows me to work with my family and share ideas and opinions on a day-to-day business,” Samir grins.

Since taking over the Green Cedar Dairy, business has been booming.

Cheese production has doubled, reaching the current 1,000 pound weekly output. Yogurt production has skyrocketed from 100 to 450 cases of yogurt each week. Products and packaging have been adjusted to cater to consumers’ taste buds and preferences and the product seal has been totally overhauled. In 2005, Samir strategically relocated the business to provide easier access to nearby highways. Originally a hospital storage building, he retrofitted the current building, updating piping and layout to meet Grade A facility regulations. Since the move, automation has been a company priority, as the Harbs attempt to reduce the labor costs and quality control issues associated with labor-intensive processing.

Any outsider would consider the company’s growth and updated facilities incredibly impressive and a prime example of entrepreneurial success. But Samir, too humble and hard working to succumb to pride, shrugs, saying, “I just try to remember that the bad times won’t stay forever. Sometimes the economy will be down and we need to watch things. Other times, it’s

Family First

The patriarch of the family and business owner, getting beneath the surface of Samir’s story wasn’t easy.

But after their father left the room, Samir’s sons confirmed what the interviewee himself never would.

“He’s the hardest working man I’ve ever met. He takes dedication to a whole new level, and we can’t ever get him to take a vacation, even during the slow months. We grew up looking to him as a model of hard work and, someday, we hope to take over the family business. But we may end up retiring before he does,” Weesam jokes.

Sam, Amal, Samir, Farah and Weesam Harb (left to right) stand outside Green Cedar Dairy in Dearborn – the only Middle Eastern dairy processor in the state. to the business. Not just a number or paycheck. That’s the family business difference. ” Deford or Dearborn. Dairy farmers or dairy processors. Family businesses share a common bond. MMPA is proud to share that bond with local businesses like Green Cedar Dairy, committed to supplying customers with nothing less than the best.

Employing his two sons, wife (parttime) and two nephews, Samir enjoys being able to take care of his family while involving them in the business. Family, responsibility and an honest day’s work are the forces driving his sixday-a-week schedule and Our number don’t lie... reluctance to take a break.

Even after all the hours, effort and sweat, Samir is quick to give credit to MORE THAN fiNANciNg– his family of employees.

Each year, our team of more than 20 tax

proven

His nephew, Hassan Hachem, adds, “My uncle never says we work ‘for’ him. He always affirms that we work ‘with’ him.

Here, you’re treated like a person who can add value

specialists touch thousands of producers returns, helping to maximize their tax savings.

We know the business of agriculture like no one else; call us to start your year-end planning today!

800-444-FArM October 2013

While his vast knowledge and depth of experience in dairy processing may be deceiving, Samir’s experience with Green Cedar Dairy, before 1999, was strictly as a consumer.

But nearly 15 year ago, after owning six other businesses ranging from a fish market to car dealership, the company’s previous owner convinced Samir to purchase the sixyear-old dairy.

up and we can make changes and updates. I just try to be patient and, as long as I have bread on the table for my family, it’s a good day.”

www.greenstonefcs.com

Messenger

Jack of Many Trades

21

Livestock Haulers Fined for RFID Violations

T

he Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has levied over $22,000 in fines against two Michigan livestock dealers who illegally moved calves without official Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags. All cattle are required to bear RFID tags in the State of Michigan before they are moved from any property. The dealers were also fined for failure to keep adequate records and dealing in livestock without a license,

violations of the Livestock Dealers Act (Act 284 of 1937, as amended), and the Animal Industry Act (Act 466 of 1988, as amended) which were established to protect both the cattle industry as well as the consumer.

“We cannot let the actions of two bad actors undermine the integrity of cattle traceability in Michigan,” said Al Rodriquez, MDARD’s Animal Industry Division Compliance Officer. “While these findings are disappointing, they reinforce our

efforts to make sure all Michigan livestock farmers are in compliance with the RFID law.”

Michigan’s cattle industry enthusiastically embraced the RFID program in 2007, making the state the national leader in farm-to-fork traceability. In February of 2013, a dairy herd in Saginaw County was diagnosed with bovine TB. MDARD trace investigators discovered the farm owner sold, and two dealers bought, calves without the required RFID tags.

Continued on page 27

Messenger

October 2013

FORAGE TREATMENT

22

MMPA Ag Wear 8900

K500 PC90H

L500

8900 Summit Jacket

Windproof/water resistant heavyweight nylon shell lined with super heavyweight anti-pilling Panda Fleece. Also features contrasting color on front and back panel plus two front pockets with zippers and one inner right chest pocket with zipper. Elastic waistband, Velcro cuff closure, and a hood concealed in the collar.

Sizes: S-3XL (available in all colors) 4XL – 6XL, LT – 6XLT (available in * colors) Colors: Yellow*, Black*, Imperial Blue*, Red*, Charcoal*, Maroon, Olive, Khaki*, Forest Green* Price: $59.00

K500 Silk Touch Sport Shirt

An enduring favorite, this comfortable classic sport shirt is anything but ordinary. Superior wrinkle and shrink resistance.

5-ounce, 65/35 poly/cotton pique Flat knit collar and cuffs Metal buttons with dyed-to-match plastic rims Double-needle armhole seams and hem Side vents Sizes: XS-6XL (available in all colors) Colors: White*, Light Pink, Tropical Pink, Hibiscus, Red*, Burgundy*, Maroon, Banana*, Gold, Texas Orange, Orange, Light Stone, Stone*, Coffee Bean, Light Blue*, Ultramarine Blue, Maui Blue, Mediterranean Blue, Royal*, Navy*, Purple, Eggplant, Lime, Mint Green, Kelly Green, Court Green, Clover Green, Dark Green*, Bark, Steel Gray, Cool Gray*, Black*.

LT-4XLT (available in *colors)

Please Note: All clothing will have an MMPA logo embroidered on it.

October 2013

9-ounce, 50/50 cotton/poly fleece Dyed-to-match drawcord (Ash and Athletic Heather have white drawcord) Adult Sizes: S-4XL Colors: White, Ash, Athletic Heather, Gold, Orange, Dark Chocolate Brown, Red, Cardinal, Maroon, Pale Pink, Purple, Royal, Navy, Safety Green, Kelly, Dark Green, Black.

$27.00

Price: $18.50

L500 Ladies Silk Touch Sport Shirt

Sizes: XS-6XL (available in all colors)

Price: $18.50

Messenger

PC90H Pullover Hooded Sweatshirt

23

L705

J705

JST73

S608

Please Note: All clothing will have an MMPA logo embroidered on it.

JST73 Hooded Raglan Jacket

A hit on and off the field, these jackets are comfortable, stylish and quiet. These favorites have sporty hoods and raglan sleeves. They also offer an unrestrictive fit and lightweight weather protection.

100% polyester shell Jersey lining with mesh insets at gussets for added breathability, Side pockets, Articulated elbows for greater mobility, Half elastic, half self-fabric cuffs for comfort Drawcord hem with toggle, Drawcord hood with toggles Sizes: XS-6XL Colors: True Red, Maroon, Forest Green, True Royal, True Navy, Black Price: $31.00

Messenger

October 2013

J705 Textured Soft Shell Jacket

24

Perfect for everyday wear. Super soft and flexible, these jackets deliver pure comfort as well as water and wind protection. The raglan silhouette gives you optimum range of motion, while the angled zippered chest pocket adds visual appeal.

1000MM waterproof rating, 1000G/M2 breathability rating Storm flap with chin guard, Ergonomic zipper pulls Zippered chest pocket, Front zippered pockets Spandex-trimmed cuffs, Open hem with drawcord and toggles for adjustability Sizes: XS-4XL Colors: Black, Insignia Blue, CafĂŠ Brown, Stone

Price: $56.00

L705 Ladies Textured Soft Shell Jacket Gently contoured silhouette, Princess seams Open hem Ladies Sizes: XS-4XL Price: $56.00

S608 Easy Care Shirts

These comfortable wash-and-wear shirts are indispensible for the workday. Wrinkle resistant. 4.5 ounce, 55/45 cotton/poly, Button down collar, Dyed-to-match buttons, Patch pocket, Box back pleat Sizes: XS-6XL (available in all colors) Colors: White*, Light Pink, Tropical Pink, Hibiscus, Red*, Burgundy*, Yellow, Gold, Athletic Gold, Texas Orange, Light Stone*, Stone*, Coffee Bean, Light Blue*, Maui Blue, Ultramarine Blue, Mediterranean Blue*, Royal*, Navy*, Classic Navy, Purple, Eggplant, Court Green, Clover Green, Dark Green*, Steel Gray, Black*.

LT-4XLT (available in *colors):

Price: $24.30

L608 Ladies Easy Care Shirts

Sizes: XS-6XL (available in all colors)

Price: $24.30

K431

L431

J763H J355

J763

J763 Duck Cloth Work Jacket

A workwear staple, this jacket has triple-needle stitching at the shoulders and armholes so it will last job after job.

12-ounce, 100% cotton duck cloth, 6-ounce polyfill nylon lining for added warmth, Corduroy collar, Bi-swing back Zippered chest pocket, Adjustable 2-snap sleeves, Front slash pockets Adjustable button waist tabs Colors: Black, Duck Brown, Navy Sizes: XS-6XL Price: $60.00

J355 Challenger Vest

The new versatile Challenger vest has spandex-trimmed armholes and hem for long-wearing durability.

Hidden zippered chest pocket, Double-needle stitching throughout Open hem Colors: Goldenrod, True Red, True Royal, True Navy, True Hunter, Steel Gray, True Black.

Sizes: XS-4XL Price: $41.00

K431 Cool Mesh Sport Shirt

Soft, garment washed sports shirt with breathable mesh weave.

6.3-ounce, 100% ring spun combed cotton, double needed stitching throughout, flat knit collar, 3-button placket with horn-tone buttons. Features tipping stripe trim. Adult sizes XS-6XL Colors: Red/Ivory/Khaki, Banana/Ivory/Navy, Blueberry/Ivory/Navy, Oxford Heather/Ivory/Black, White/Khaki/Navy, Royal/Khaki/Navy, Burgundy/Khaki/Navy, Stone Heather/Ivory/Black, Cypress/Navy/ Khaki, Navy/Ivory/Khaki, Black/Ivory/Khaki.

Price: $28.00

L431 Ladies Cool Mesh Sport Shirt

V-neck Johnny collar Sizes: XS-4XL Price: $28.00

Please Note: All clothing will have an MMPA logo embroidered on it.

October 2013

Tough enough to do the job, this work jacket layers easily over shirts and jackets so it’s great for mild or harsh weather.

12-ounce, 100% cotton duck cloth, 6-ounce polyfill nylon lining for added warmth. Hood with dyed-to-match drawcord, Rib knit cuffs and waistband Front hand warmer pockets Colors: Duck Brown, Navy, Black Sizes: XS-6XL Price: $63.00

Messenger

J763H Duck Cloth Hooded Work Jacket

25

Ship To:

MMPA Ag Wear Order Form Office Use Only

Name: Street Address:

Order #

City: State: Zip:

DS DR

Phone:

Style/Code# Description Color Size Total Price Total Please add $2 for size 2XL and

Qty. Each Amount larger or any tall sizes.

Please note: All clothing will have an MMPA logo embroidered on it.

Ordered By: Name: Street Address: City: State: Zip:

Phone: Ordering Information: Please complete all necessary information. Indicate sizes where required. Costs can be deducted from producer’s milk check. Money orders and checks are also accepted. Do not mail cash. Orders must be sent to the Novi Office. Allow 3-4 weeks for delivery (all items shipped USPS).

Merchandise Subtotal 6% Sales Tax Add S&H Charges Total Order

Payment: Milk Check deduction: Loc _____ Hlr.______ State #______

Please subtract this amount from my milk check.

Check or money order enclosed payable to MMPA. No invoices will be issued.

(Signature) (Date)

Use size chart to determine your correct size. Specify the quantity by size.

Size Chart S M L XL 2X 3X 4X 34-36 38-40 42-44 46-48 50-52 54 56 Please read size chart carefully. Since garments are decorated, returns or exchanges will only be accepted with prior approval.

$8.00

Mail order to: MMPA Clothing P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376-8002 or fax to: (248) 426-3400

Continued from page 22

“MDARD is continually informing the cattle industry of the RFID requirement, and plans on increasing livestock movement enforcement efforts to boost compliance,” Rodriquez said.

For more information on animal ID visit USDA’s Animal Traceability Final Rule.

Maximize Every Bite!

SilagePro

®

CATALYST

with

5 enzymes

• 4-day fermentation • 5% more silage at feed-out • Increased rate of fiber digestion • Higher starch retention tion More milk per ton of silage fed

Available through MMPA Merchandise

Over one million tons treated last year alone!

American Farm rm P Products rod ducts ucts Arlin Koglin • 989-553-3370

October 2013

The Gratiot County livestock dealer waived his rights to a formal hearing and agreed to have his Livestock Dealer’s License revoked for the remainder of 2013, plus two additional years for improper record keeping. He was assessed a fine of $11,325 for movement of approximately 53 calves without bearing official RFID. A second livestock dealer waived his rights to a formal hearing and received a fine of $11,320 for the movement of cattle without official RFID tags from a premises.

Control Butyric Acid and

Messenger

An animal disease investigation includes tracking cattle sold from a bovine TB positive farm. With an RFID tag, easily scanned with an electronic reader, it only takes a day or two to find the animals.

But this investigation took over four months, countless additional contacts, and reviews of books and sales receipts to find the animals – simply because these people did not comply with the law.

“Without RFID, it’s difficult to confirm we are testing the correct animals, so instead of one steer, an entire herd needs to be tested – that’s a huge impact on our cattle farmers,” Rodriquez said.

27

MERCHANDISE

Color Change for Masticare

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

A

healing, while a 10 percent blend of skin conditioners prevent chapping and cracking. Healthier teats mean better teat sanitation and help to lessen the chances of infection from mastitis causing organisms.

&L Laboratories have announced a formula change to their Masticare teat dip line.

Previously Masticare had been green in color; it will now be a vivid brown. This new brown color will provide a better marker, making it easier to see, which will ensure full coverage when either dipping or spraying.

Usage directions: Pre dip: Make sure teats are clean and dry before application of dip. Allow 20-30 seconds of contact time before wiping the teats dry with a single service towel.

Post dip: After removing milker, dip or spray and allow to air dry.

Masticare is a ready to use teat dip available as both Masticare Pre & Post and Masticare Sprayable. As the name indicates, Masticare Sprayable is designed for use in a spray application, and Masticare Pre and Post is slightly thicker and better used with dip cups. Both products can be effective in pre and post situations.

The active ingredients of Masticare are a combination of salicylic acid and other ingredients that work synergistically to provide outstanding protection. This provides for an excellent broad spectrum kill of mastitis causing organisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, even when exposed to high levels of organic contaminants.

Masticare is available in the sizes listed below; Item

Stock #

Member price

Masticare Pre&Post 5g.

3541

$62.24

Masticare Pre&Post 15g.

3542

$170.05

Masticare Pre&Post 55g.

3543

$525.50

Masticare Sprayable 15g. 3540

$165.60

Masticare provides excellent skin conditioning as well.

Its natural hydroxy acids promote exfoliation for faster

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

Ingredients from your trusted source.

Zeeland Farm Services, Inc.速 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

Messenger

October 2013

Valero Meal

28

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

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

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

• 50,000 or below • 51,000 - 75,000 • 76,000 - 100,000 • 101,000 - 125,000 • 126,000 - 150,000 • 151,000 - 175,000 • 176,000 - 200,000 • 201,000 - 225,000 • 226,000 - 250,000 • 251,000 - 400,000 • 401,000 - 500,000 • 501,000 - 600,000 • 601,000 - 750,000 • Over 750,000

+55¢/cwt. +50¢/cwt. +45¢/cwt. +40¢/cwt. +35¢/cwt. +30¢/cwt. +25¢/cwt. +20¢/cwt. +15¢/cwt.

00¢/cwt.

-15¢/cwt.

-30¢/cwt.

-$1.00/cwt.

-$1.50/cwt.

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

A high raw count deduction will be waived if the producer has received the quality premium the previous three months for raw bacteria count.

To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month: • Positive drug residue • Abnormal freeze points • High load count shipment or rejected load shipment • #3 or #4 sediment • Raw Bacteria count over 100,000 The count levels for raw and PI will be determined on one test run per month.

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

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

To qualify for MMPA volume premiums there must be:

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

• No abnormal freeze points during the month • An average somatic cell count of 750,000 or less

• Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count

MMPA Member Testing Fees Payment 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.

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 $12 • Bacteriology Cultures $13 – 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 • Milk Pregnancy ELISA

$40 $ 6 $40 $ 6 $10 $ 6 $10 $4.50

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

Chemical, Sanitizer & Teat Dip Contact Information

These are service personnel only.

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB

24 - Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026 For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392 or Stan Palmer 5303 E. Swan Drive #3 Port Clinton, OH 43452 419-797-2101 Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636 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 October 2013

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

Messenger

MMPA Quality Premium Program

29

FREELINERS

Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 202 to place your ad or email to: Muszynski@mimilk.com or fax (248) 426-3412.

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 810-404-8548.

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

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, 269673-4886 or 269-217-6076, 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 writing or calling the Novi office.

Messenger

October 2013

• 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.

30

• 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.

Registered Holstein Bulls: Calves to breeding age. Many with genomic info, EX and VG dams with high records out of popular sires. Priced to sell. W-R-L Daniels Farm LLC. Contact: Rod Daniels 989-756-4935.

Brillion land commander, 5 shank ripper, good teeth, $3,000. 989-345-1934.

Two Jersey bulls service age. Call Hartland Farms at 616-527-4478.

Dairy Equipment

Crossbred bulls - Jersey, Brown Swiss, Holstein & Scandinavian Red - 100% AI. 810-724-8825.

Good selection of Holstein breeding age bulls. BEW, REW and a couple polled with GTPI’s up to 2300. Calving ease emphasized. Wardin Brothers 989-642-3262.

Cows and Heifers

Jersey herd, 25-cows currently milking.

High butterfat, low SCC. For more information call 989-435-2896.

Equipment

Kewanee 42-ft. elevator, $1,200. Henke roller mill blower, $3,500. Hanson 20-ft. silo unloader, $2,500. 810-599-9021.

1 Gehl 700 2-row narrow chopper with hay head, nice. 1 John Deere 38 chopper with hay head. 260-705-8185.

5127 vertical TMR mixer in A1 condition. 420 Harvester stationary TMR mixer in good condition. 574-642-1247.

1998 Knight Mixer 3030 asking $5,000.

989-709-0955.

John Deere 443 corn head 30 inch rows good condition, always housed, $4,000.

New Holland 30 blower 1,000 pto, very good condition, always housed, $1,200.

Call 989-615-6372.

16’ Silo-Matic silo unloader, newer augers needs gooseneck, $300. Call 989-615-6372.

24 ft. Valmetal silo unloader with new distributor. Used 3 seasons, excellent condition, $1,500. 989-642-3262.

Landoll soilmaster 2, 9 shank with 4” hard surface shovels, buster bar leveler, floating tandem wheels, and good disk and bearings, $8,000. 989-345-1934.

Two 4500 gallon V bottom manure tanks, air gate for spreading, $4,000 each.

989-345-1934.

Blue Diamond parlor double 12 Herringbone rapid exit with Germania model (SB) arm takeoffs. Afimilk information system, barrel style claws.

Available fall 2013. $35,000.

231-834-7558.

Mueller 1,000-gal. bulk tank with compressor and tank washer, asking $3,800. 989-709-0955.

3-phase variable speed Boumatic Vacuum pump, 10 horse power 220 or 440 Hours: 30324.5. 989-709-0955.

Jamesway bulk tank with compressor, 500 gal., $2,150. 616-897-0620.

Dairy Farm

Dairy Farm, Cheboygan, Mich. 367.11 acres. 25x56 double parallel parlor put in 3 yrs. ago, 2,000-gal. bulk tank, 400 free-stall barn, 48x100 calf barn, 80x80 commodity barn, 64x280’ hay barn, 32x56 maternity barn, 44x100 tool pole barn. 45 acre pasture by barn. 7-bedroom L shaped brick home, built 1976. Can send packet with more info & appraisal if interested. Turn key operation if you want cows & equipment, or will sell farm separate. We also rent 670 acres paying $40 ac. most acres, Less amt. David Brown, Cheboygan, Mich. 231-625-2036.

Wanted

40 used pasture mats for freestall barn.

Call David Mast at 260-593-2686 ext. 4.

Used rubber mats for cows.

574-825-4373 ext. 1.

Small herd of milking cows that can be bought on milk check assignment.

616-889-0769.

CLASSIFIEDS

Classified Ads ($20 per ad up to 6 lines) Mail ads to: Classified Ads, Michigan Milk Messenger, PO BOX 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002. Email to Muszynski@mimilk.com or fax (248) 426-3412. 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: We can fix your scabbled floors. Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking of concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving Inc., Portland.

517-647-7381.

DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: NO water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better traction. We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. 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: 5000-4000-3000-25002000-1500 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.

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

Miller Spray Service, Inc. 574-825-9776.

CORN SILAGE, HAYLAGE & HAY. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

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

Generators Winpower & Katolight

Stocking up to 100 KW 24 Hour Emergency Service serving Michigan for the past 30 years 800-345-1887 Midwest Power Systems

Messenger

October 2013

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS

32

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

Over 100 service age bulls for your selection! a special herd sire or a truck load of breeder bulls. Ready to go to work on your farm!

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

GREEN MEADOW FARMS

• FROM OUR TOP PRODUCTION COWS.

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

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

Policies

MMPA Policy on Drug Residue in Milk:

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.

MMPA Policy on Milk Quality QUALITY QUESTIONABLE When a member suspects that the milk in the farm bulk tank is of poor quality they should call a MMPA Member Representative who will authorize milk in the tank to be dumped. If the member dumps the milk on their own, they must be sure to take the stick reading and record the number of pounds of milk, and report the information to the Member Representative.

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

The Swingline Safety Switch can be ordered from the 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. * The member will only be paid for two (2) voluntary dumps in a rolling 12 month period.

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. REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT If: 1. A load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. the milk cannot be sold through normal Grade A channels for reasons of quality which results in the load being sold or disposed of at a loss to MMPA, and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members that caused the contamination or rejection of the load, then, the member or members responsible will be charged the full value of the loss to MMPA plus transportation and disposal costs, and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums except for loads rejected for temperature.

4. MMPA will provide an invoice to the member for the amount of the loss, to be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made.

If a member has 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 cells per mL bacteria count will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all are less than 100,000. A hauler will be responsible for all costs incurred by MMPA for loads rejected for temperature.

Charges and assessments made under this program will be withheld from milk checks of members or haulers involved.

October 2013

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 -

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

Messenger

MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED If a member suspects milk in the farm bulk tank contains drug residue:

33

MARKET REPORT

August 2013 MARKET STATISTICS Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

NATIONAL TRENDS (million pounds)

This Month

Year Ago

Total Class 1 Sales

553,527,797

515,257,151

+7.43

Total Class 2 Sales

225,728,186

299,711,058

Total Class 3 Sales

471,973,206

Total Class 4 Sales Total Production

% Change

2013

2012

% Change

-24.68

Production California

3,393

3,304

+2.7

306,139,057

+54.17

Wisconsin

2,353

2,313

+1.7

164,789,864

166,337,885

-0.93

Idaho

1,175

1,183

-0.7

1,416,019,053

1,287,445,151

+9.99

New York

1,150

1,104

+4.2

39.1%

40.0%

Pennsylvania

891

861

+3.5

Texas

790

765

+3.3

Michigan

781

752

+3.9

Minnesota

767

753

+1.9

New Mexico

653

661

-1.2

Washington

546

523

+4.4

Ohio

449

436

+3.0

Indiana

320

313

+2.2

* Total U.S.

15,733

15,322

+2.7

* U.S. Y-T-D

136,095

135,541

+0.4

Class 1 Utilization

Mideast Federal Order #33 Current Month Total Producers 6,219 Average Daily Production per Farm 7,345 Average Protein Test 3.02% Average Butterfat Test 3.65% Average Other Solids Test 5.74% Average SCC Count (MMPA) 192,000

* For 23 states

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

$3.4775

Butterfat Price/lb.

$1.5104

Other Solids Price/lb.

$0.3901

Class III Price @ 3.5%

$ 17.91

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

Messenger

October 2013

SCC Adjustment/cwt./1000

34

$1.21 $ 19.12 $0.00089

NASS Survey Prices Monthly Avg Cheese /lb

1.7731

Butter /lb

1.4187

Nonfat Dry Milk /lb

1.7706

Dry Whey /lb

0.5778

MMPA

STAFF

NOVI (Headquarters) 248-474-6672 • 800-572-5824 General Manager Clay Galarneau, ext. 200

Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula, ext. 219

Member Services Dean Letter, ext. 213

Manufactured Product Sales Jim Dodson, ext. 229

Milk Sales/Dispatch Carl Rasch, ext. 244

Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt, ext. 210

Finance/Controller Joseph M. Diglio, ext. 240

Human Resources Cindy Tilden, ext. 220

Member Relations/Public Affairs Sheila Burkhardt, ext. 208 Data Processing Gregory Schulkey, ext. 237 Member Communications Laura Moser, ext. 296 Alex Schnabelrauch, ext. 211

MANUFACTURING PLANTS Constantine 269-435-2835 Plant Manager Dave Davis Ovid 989-834-2221 Plant Manager/Plant Operations David Wittkop

MMPA FIELD STAFF NORTH AREA

SOUTH AREA

Frank Brazeau 920-834-4059 Oconto, Wis., cell: 906-250-0337

Krista Beeker Howe, IN 269-986-6792

Ben Chapin Blanchard 989-289-0731

David Brady 517-522-5965 Grass Lake cell: 517-937-9061

Lyndsay Earl Ludington 231-519-2455

Emily Butcher Middlebury, IN

269-535-0822

Angelee Kirsch Harbor Beach 231-414-4539

Kendra Kissane Grand Rapids

269-245-6632

Violet Lombard Hubbard Lake

Andrew Rupprecht Clio 269-986-6793

Deborah Navarre Leroy 248-520-3580

Elyse Martin Eaton Rapids

810-701-6460

Lindsay Green St. Johns

Ed Zuchnik Three Rivers

269-967-7351

989-488-8159

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

Other Services:

Gary Best 810-664-4984 Lapeer cell: 586-484-9279 Bulk Tank Calibration Katie Pierson Coleman 989-289-9686 Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor

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

Ovid:

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

Constantine: 800-391-7560

7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily Steven Lehman 989-875-3441 Ithaca cell: 989-330-1638 Mastitis Management Christy Dinsmoore Fairgrove 989-528-9102 Mastitis Management

Merchandise—St. Louis

Duane Farmer, Supervisor

989-681-2334 Fax 989-681-3988 Toll Free 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi) 800-572-5824

then dial 2

October 2013

248-520-3481

Supervisor: Ed Zuchnik Coldwater Office 269-967-7351

Messenger

Supervisor: Gerry Volz St. Louis Office 989-289-9219

35

DuPont Pioneer delivers leading forage products along with expert advice.

The Silage Zone® resource provides ideal solutions to real-world challenges. Offering world-class research and local expertise, we can help you meet your operation’s dietary needs. We support our lineup of corn silage, alfalfa and inoculants with the know-how to keep your operation running smoothly. And we’re there at every stage. Pioneer.com/SilageZone

The DuPont Oval Logo is a registered trademark of DuPont. PIONEER® brand products are provided subject to the terms and conditions of purchase which are part of the labeling and purchase documents. ®, TM, SM Trademarks and service marks of Pioneer. © 2013 PHII. DUPPFO13021VAR1_100113_MMM

forages