Michigan Milk Messenger: November 2011

November 2011 Volume 94 Issue 5

November 2011

12

Contents

Volume 94 Issue 5 www.mimilk.com

Features

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10 MMPA Advisory Committee Legislative Luncheon 10 Free Trade Agreements Win Congressional Passage 11 MMPA Applauds Inclusion of Dairy Policy Reforms in

Lugar-Stutzman Farm Bill Draft 12 District 12 OYDC ~ David and Ann Folkersma 14 Milker Training Schools Offer Hands-On Training

15

15 Breakfast on the Farm 18 District 7 OYDC ~ Alan and Melissa Simons 20 Third Annual Fuel Up to Play 60 Kick Off to School

Health at Ford Field 22 MSU Annual Cheese Sale 24 Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Challenges 84th National

FFA Convention Participants to Pursue Careers in Agriculture 26 Livestock Gross Margin-Dairy Fiscal Year 2012

Departments

Managing Editor...................... Sheila Burkhardt Editor............................................ Laura Moser Advertising Manager..................... Karla Macelli Circulation............................................... 4,200

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

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.

November September 2011 2009 Volume 92 Issue 5 Volume 94 Issue 3

On the Cover Several MMPA members opened their farms to Breakfast on the Farm events. Read about the successful program on page 15.

(ISSN 0026-2315) 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

District Directors 1. Earl Horning, Manchester.............734-428-7641 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, FreeSoil.......................231-464-5889 12. John Kronemeyer, Pickford..........906-647-7638

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

Mission Statement

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

Advisory Committee District One Hank Choate, Cement City Perry Cisco, Hudson Carlton Evans, Litchfield Glenn Preston, Quincy

517-529-9032 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 November 2011

989-762-5399 231-796-4650 231-743-6794 989-462-5380

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 Keith Wood, Kingston

810-395-2926 810-395-7139 810-327-6135 989-683-2070

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

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

District Twelve 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

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

FFTF Moves Forward in Proposed Legislation

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he process of instituting new national dairy policy has moved forward significantly in recent months. On September 21, the NMPF Board of Directors endorsed the latest iteration of Foundation For The Future (FFTF) NMPF’s proposal for dairy policy.

The MMPA Board of Directors endorsed the proposed program on September 29.

Also in September, the Dairy Security Act of 2011 was introduced in the House as HR 3062. HR 3062 closely followed the reforms recommended in FFTF. Then, in October, Senior Senate Agriculture Committee member Dick Luger (R-Indiana) and Representative Marlin Stutzman (R-Indiana), freshman member of the House Agriculture Committee, introduced a farm bill proposal that includes the dairy policy recommended

by NMPF. Having dairy policy introduced in both the House and the Senate is a major move forward.

This is a noteworthy milestone toward having in place a policy that will be a much better fit for the 21st century U.S. dairy industry than our current policy. How fast FFTF will now move through the legislative process, though, is anybody’s guess.

Any farm bill can be contentious with the vast number of complex interests that are affected.

This time around, the deep concern over the U.S. deficit has to be added to the list as well. While we were developing FFTF over the last two years, we knew that whatever the dairy policy for the future would look like, it had to save money over the current program. The goal from day one was to develop a reasonably adequate safety net while reducing

government spending; FFTF accomplishes both.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates a 20 percent savings over current dairy policy. The safety net will provide better coverage in an “off the wall” year like 2009 while at the same time costing less.

This summer, the NMPF team completed a tour across the United States, talking to more than 1,300 dairy farmers about FFTF. The changes made to FFTF in September were a result of the input received from dairy producers across the country, including those in Michigan.

Here is a summary of some of those changes to FFTF that are now part of the introduced legislation: Dairy Producer Margin Protection Program (DPMPP):

Under the original proposal, base milk production that was eligible for margin protection under both the base plan and the supplemental plan was set for the length of the Farm Bill; the proposal now keeps the base plan amount frozen but allows the amount of production covered by the supplemental plan to grow if the participant opts for the growth component. Originally, the base coverage was free for up to 90 percent of the base; now the free base coverage is 80 percent to lower the cost of the program. The supplemental coverage still includes a subsidized premium for the additional protection offered.

Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) System Reforms: The requested reforms now include directing USDA to establish a competitive Class III

milk price and elimination of make allowances. The procedure is to follow the established hearing process allowing for input from producers and a vote before final acceptance of the FMMO changes.

Dairy Market Stabilization Program (DMSP): This component has led to the most discussion, because it is a supply management program.

Most MMPA members don’t like the idea of supply management, myself included, but in this case I can accept it because it isn’t based on a permanent figure. The base is a three month rolling average.

DMSP should ease volatility, in turn lowering the cost to the government for the DPMPP. DPMPP is essential when we do away with both the MILC and the Dairy Product Price Support Program. Under earlier proposals DMSP was mandatory for all producers, but under the now proposed legislation DMSP is mandatory only if you sign up for DPMPP.

A new policy essentially charts a new course, and the policy that is developed can never be expected to result in a straight line from point A where the old policy ends to point B where the new policy begins. There inevitably will be zigs and zags, because it takes time and a variety of sources of input to develop policy that is acceptable to the majority. FFTF is no exception, and it will be interesting to follow it as it makes its way through the next steps of the process. If the resulting dairy policy follows the guidelines we have proposed, I think we will have achieved a much improved dairy policy for the 21st century.

Michigan Milk Messenger 5

Quality Watch

By

By Gary DeanTrimner Letter MMPA Manager of ProducerControl Testing Director of Member Services/Quality and Herd Health Programs

Member Representatives Receive Johne’s Disease Training

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t this year’s fall member representative training conference, Dan Grooms, MSUCVM; Joe Woltanski, USDA; and Phil Durst, MSUE provided training on the background, management, and testing regimes of Johne’s disease. Today, producers are keenly aware of the importance of proper nutrition and good mastitis management to herd health and high milk production.

Awareness of diseases such as Johne’s disease are not typically as high because there are no acute outbreaks of this chronic disease.

In fact, there are no clinical signs of the disease until its later stages.

Because this disease develops below the level of awareness, the financial loss from this disease is often not considered.

The Center for Epidemiology at the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated the economic loss associated with Johne’s disease.

Dr. Stephen Ott reports, “… herd productivity and corresponding economic loss on U.S. dairy operations was part of the USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System’s (NAHMS) 1996 national dairy study. Johne’spositive herds experience an economic loss of almost $100 per cow when compared to Johne’snegative herds due to reduced milk production and increased cowreplacement costs.

For Johne’s-positive herds that reported at least 10% of their cull cows as having clinical signs consistent with Johne’s disease,

6 November 2011

economic losses were over $200 per cow. These high-prevalence herds experienced reduced milk production of over 700 kg [~1500 lb] per cow, culled more cows but had lower cull-cow revenues, and had greater cow mortality than Johne’s-negative herds.”

Do you know if your herd is infected with Johne’s disease?

Chances are pretty good that it is. Michigan State University conducted a study called “Prevalence of Dairy Herds Infected with Johne’s Disease in Michigan as determined by Environmental Sampling”. The outcome of the study indicated that the calculated true prevalence of dairy herds infected with Johne’s disease in Michigan is just over 48% (with a margin of error of 10%). Infected herds were found equally distributed across the state.

In this study, Johne’s disease was found on all herds that purchased cows within the past five years or had over 200 cows (chances are that most of the larger herds have purchased cows in the past five years). Since nearly half of the herds in Michigan probably have Johne’s disease, if your neighbor’s herd does not have the disease, yours probably does.

MMPA offers a Johne’s Risk Assessment Tool that is available through your member rep. This tool estimates the degree of risk your herd has to the disease. The tool also highlights which management changes can be instituted to break the disease cycle. This is a critical aspect of the tool since according

to Joe Woltanski, testing a Johne’s positive herd without a workable Johne’s management program will do little good in controlling the disease. Once a management program has been outlined, producers are often encouraged to test their herds to identify testpositive cows so that they can be managed differently from testnegative cows.

It is a good idea to conduct Johne’s testing on individual cows at a time when the test information will be used to make management decisions. For instance, as a part of their Johne’s management program some producers may elect to test cows a couple of weeks prior to dry-off. Based on the test results and management tolerance for the disease, a decision can be made to cull the cow prior to dry treatment, freshen the cow in a maternity pen designated for Johne’s animals and feed the calf colostrum from a Johne’s negative cow, identify the calf as being from a Johne’s positive dam for future management considerations, etc. This is the reason a Johne’s management program needs to be in place to get the greatest benefit from testing.

MMPA has partnered with AntelBio to offer our members Johne’s testing. AntelBio offers a Milk Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for cows, a “hyper” ELISA for bulk milk screening, and a Rapid Fecal test. Each test has pros and cons regarding cost, speed, specificity and sensitivity. Specificity is the ability of a test to correctly identify Continued on page 9

News & Views The latest dairy news

September Class III Down $2.60 The September Class III price is $19.07 per cwt., down $2.60 from August, but still $2.81 above September 2010. The September Class IV price is $19.53, down 61 cents from August, but $2.77 above a year ago.

Producers scoring 95 percent or more on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Rating MMPA Carney September 2011 Pleasant View Dairy Farm LLC * Sandahl Dairy Farm * Steven / Heidi Johnson Waucedah Hill Farm LLC Donald Bal Robert Paidl Sherwin Wilson Scott / Gladys / Paul Mellgren Milton Patz Karen Ann / John Strohl Rivard Farms Getz-Milk Dairy LLC *Scored 100 percent

8 November 2011

MMPA Constantine Plant Wins Two First Place Awards at the World Dairy Expo Championship Dairy Product Contest

The MMPA Constantine Plant took first place honors at the World Dairy Expo Dairy Product Contest. The top rankings were earned in both the Salted Butter and Unsalted Butter categories.

The award presentation was made during World Dairy Expo.

This year’s contest, sponsored by the Wisconsin Dairy Products Assn. (WDPA), received a record number of 705 MMPA Director of Manufactured entries for cheese, butter, fluid Product Sales, Jim Dodson accepts milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, the Dairy Product awards on behalf of ice cream, sour cream, sherbet, MMPA. cultured milk, sour cream dips, whipping cream, dried whey and creative/innovative products from throughout the United States.

“It is amazing how dairy manufacturers have embraced this contest,” says Brad Legreid, executive director of WDPA. “Due to the tremendous support from dairy companies throughout North America, the World Dairy Expo Championship Dairy Product Contest has averaged a 25% annual rate of growth over its first nine years. This is unprecedented growth for a relatively new contest.”

Babcock Hall Dairy Plant, Madison, WI was selected as the Cheese and Butter Grand Champion and Gifford’s Dairy, Skowhegan, ME was selected as the Grade A & Ice Cream Grand Champion of the World Dairy Expo (WDE) Championship Dairy Product Contest.

Upcoming Events November 9-10

UDIM Leading the Conversation: How to Handle Difficult Questions. Workshops — ­ various locations

13-16 NDB/NMPF/UDIA Joint Annual Meeting - San Diego, California 21

Leaders’ Conference - East Lansing

Quality Watch Continued from page 6

a sample as “positive”. Sensitivity is the ability of a test to correctly identify a sample as “negative”.

The Milk ELISA test is relatively economical ($6 to $8), quick (1 to 5 days), has high specificity (95% to 99%) and moderate sensitivity (30% to 40%). The Rapid Fecal Test costs a bit more ($20 to $100), takes 3 to 14 days to get results, has high specificity (99%) and moderate sensitivity (35% to 45%).

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In the September 2001 Johne’s Watch bulletin, Antel Bio suggests that a producer can take a random statistical sampling of the herd to determine whether or not Johne’s is present in the herd. If all the cow samples are found to be negative, the herd MAY be free of Johne’s (this is by no means a guarantee). If any of the samples are positive, the results only indicate the presences of Johne’s. It does not indicate how widespread the disease is (prevalence). To get a handle on the prevalence of the disease in a herd, the whole herd needs to be sampled within a relatively narrow window of time (within four to six weeks).

AntelBio suggests that knowing the prevalence of the disease may be useful in developing a disease management/eradication program.

AntelBio is willing to work in conjunction with dairy producers and their veterinarians in developing an effective Johne’s monitoring/ management/eradication program.

The program will vary according to the producer’s goals and tolerance for the disease. If you would like more information on what AntelBio has to offer, please contact Todd Byrem or Bridgette Voisinet at (800) 631-3510.

To have a Johne’s Disease Control Program risk assessment performed for your dairy, please contact your member representative or the Novi Office.

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Michigan Milk Messenger 9

Legislative Watch Issues important to today’s dairy farmers

MMPA Advisory Committee Legislative Luncheon

S

everal Michigan Senators and Representatives took time from their schedules to meet with members of the MMPA Advisory Committee on September 28. The legislators and staff joined the Committee members for a special luncheon during their meeting in Lansing. At the luncheon, Representative Kevin Daley (R-Lum), Chair of the House Ag Committee and Senator Joe Hune (R-Hamburg) Chairman of the Senate Representative Kevin Daley visits with MMPA Ag Committee, addressed the audience. In their comments, member Bill Blumerich both legislators applauded the farmers’ efforts in keeping the Michigan agriculture industry strong and viable. Following the luncheon, Bill Rustem, Director of Strategic Policy for Governor Snyder, provided an overview on key statewide legislative initiatives including the proposed International Trade Crossing between Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario.

Free Trade Agreements Win Congressional Passage; Dairy to Benefit with Greater Market Access

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he National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) applaud the passage by the House and Senate of three free trade agreements (FTAs) with South Korea, Panama and Colombia.

“We wish to thank President Obama and his trade team, and leaders in both houses of Congress, who worked hard in recent months to make these favorable votes possible,” said Jerry Kozak, president and chief executive officer of NMPF.

“The FTAs will expand U.S. dairy exports and, when fully implemented, will create thousands of export-supporting jobs in the dairy industry,” said Tom Suber, president, USDEC. “We hope that all necessary steps can be taken in the coming months by all four countries so that the agreements may enter into force at the beginning of the year and benefits to the U.S. economy can begin to be felt immediately.”

“The U.S. dairy industry stands ready to assist in any way possible to help ensure that the FTAs take effect as soon as possible,” added Kozak.

“Our producers are excited about the new export opportunities that will be realized once the agreements take effect, especially the trade pact with South Korea. The export gain for dairy from the Korea FTA

10 November 2011

in the first few years after implementation will be approximately $380 million per year, on average, and the gains from the Colombia and Panama FTAs will add another $50 million annually.”

Suber pointed out that the agreements will not only help expand export sales for such products as cheese, whey, skim milk powder, and other dairy products, they also will prevent foreign competitors from taking market shares that the U.S. industry has developed in each of the countries in collaboration with USDEC. “In international trade, unless we continue to move forward, we risk falling behind our competitors,” he said. “These agreements will ensure that, for America’s dairy farmers and processors, export sales will continue to expand, not contract.”

The leaders noted that the agreements are all about giving dairy farmers greater market opportunities and better prices so that more can remain profitably in business. But Kozak also pointed out that it is not solely about bolstering milk prices for producers; it is also about expanding sales and jobs in the dairy processing and transportation sectors. “We estimate that as many as 10,000 additional jobs, both on and off the farm could be created by the Korea agreement alone,” he said.

MMPA Applauds Inclusion of Dairy Policy Reforms in LugarStutzman Farm Bill Draft

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ichigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) applauds the inclusion of key dairy policy reforms in a farm bill proposal jointly introduced

by Senior Senator Agriculture Committee member Dick Lugar (R-IN) and Rep. Marlin Stutzman (R-IN), a freshman member of the House Agriculture Committee.

the producers’ production history when margins fall below $4 per hundred-weight; giving producers

The key dairy policy changes the option of whether to enroll in in the REFRESH bill include: a market stabilization program; replacing the dairy price support and reforming the Federal Milk (DPPSP) and milk income loss Marketing Order system by moving contract (MILC) programs with 11-MC-541.SandCnfrnc_MMM.pdf 1 10/18/11 PM to a3:05 competitive pay price. a voluntary margin protection supply of milk, and save taxpayers’ dollars.”

program that covers 80 percent of

Sen. Lugar and Rep. Stutzman introduced the Rural Economic Farm and Ranch Sustainability and Hunger Act (REFRESH), a bill that would reduce farm program spending by $16 billion, and save a total of $40 billion compared to current policy. For the dairy title of the Farm Bill, the REFRESH legislation includes the key elements of the Dairy Security Act (DSA) of 2011, which previously was introduced in the House as HR 3062 by Reps.

Collin Peterson (D-MN) and Mike Simpson (R-ID).

The DSA is modeled after the extensive dairy reforms first proposed by National Milk Producers Federation and supported by Michigan Milk Producers Association.

The DSA itself represents a 20 percent savings compared to the current dairy program budget, amounting to $131 million over ten years, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

“We appreciate Senator Lugar and Rep. Stutzman for understanding the need to refocus dairy policy in today’s global economy by including the provisions of the Dairy Security Act of 2011 in their farm bill proposal,” says Ken Nobis, MMPA President. “The dairy title of the bill is designed to revamp and improve the farmlevel safety net for U.S. dairy producers, allow for growth, assure consumers an abundant

Michigan Milk Messenger 11

District 12 OYDC David and Ann Folkersma

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here may only be a 5-mile long bridge between the Upper and Lower Peninsula but when it comes to farming – they at times can seem worlds apart. Weather conditions, soil types and limited infrastructure can make dairy farming in the Upper Peninsula a daunting endeavor; but for those who do it, they can’t imagine farming anywhere else.

David and Ann Folkersma, the District 12 OYDC have lived in the Rudyard area all their lives.

David grew up on the farm they currently own in partnership with his brother Bob, and Ann grew up in a neighboring town. Together they are now managing the family dairy farm and raising two children. The

12 November 2011

farm consists of 100 cows and 1,100 acres of farmland.

“I helped around the farm my whole life, watching what my dad did and working with him as I got older. By the time I was in high school I was milking every night with my brother,” David says.

Having grown up on the U.P. dairy farm David is accustomed to the shorter growing seasons and limited cropping availability. The majority of his land is used to raise forages for his farm and to sell through a contractor. Because they generally count on one, maybe two, cuttings on the land they need more acreage to yield the same amount other farms might get from three or four cuttings. They purchase

the grain and protein supplements from a feed company because their farmland is not conducive to growing corn.

“We grow 150 acres of barley to supplement the shell corn we buy,” David says. “We are able to grow nice forages, which we sell to other farms and to horse owners. The extra income from the hay helps when milk prices are low.”

The Folkersmas are resourceful people, not afraid to retrofit equipment when needed or to take on repair tasks themselves. They have an extensive shop full of spare parts and tools ready to fix any equipment on the farm. They also like to rebuild antique tractors and other farm machinery. David

recently rebuilt a seed cleaner he uses to capture the seed from his forages to reuse on his farm or to sell.

“We can’t just drive down the road for a part or help repairing something. We either go as far south as McBain or order parts and wait for delivery by UPS. So we really need to keep extra parts on hand here on the farm,” David says.

While David likes to work in the shop and in the field, his brother, Bob concentrates on the milking herd. Recently Bob began mixing crossbreds into the herd to build a sturdy stock. He has implemented a three-generation rotation on the Holsteins using Swedish Reds on the first cross and then coming back with Montbellarde on the second.

The third generation is bred back to Holstein. Bob finds that the crossbred cows hold up better and produce more milk with higher butterfat components.

“The crossbreds seem to hold up better and the calves seem

stronger and more hardy to take on the winter,” David says. “We start with the Montbellarde because they are a better calving-ease breed to use on the Holsteins.”

When the calves are born they are kept in hutches outside David and Ann’s house. Ann takes care of the calves, feeding them and monitoring their health. Having them near the house instead of on the farm allows Ann to keep a closer eye on them.

“We use all of our own replacements in the herd, so we want to get the calves off to a strong start,” Ann says. “We use a good milk replacer with a 25:20 balance of protein to fat. After moving the calves to the house and switching the replacer, our calf losses have dropped dramatically,”

While living and farming in the Upper Peninsula creates a different set of challenges, it also offers a lifestyle that the Folkersmas enjoy.

Snowmobiling, four-wheeling and hunting are the Folkersma’s favorite

pastimes. As working with them on the farm. Their son, Jonathon, who is a 11, is already an expert on identifying machinery and how it operates. His experience comes from spending time with his grandfather working on the equipment.

“He is just like I was at that age,” David says. “Just following the men around asking questions and taking it all in.”

While Jonathon enjoys spending time on the farm, his sister Kaitlyn, who is 9, can be found alongside her grandmother helping prepare meals and learning to bake.

“We are fortunate to live here around family and to have our kids living on this farm,” Ann says.

“We have experienced health issues with David’s father and with David that makes us glad we have family around.”

The Folkersmas are members of the MMPA Chippewa County Local and District 12. They are both active members of their church, the Rudyard Christian Reform Church.

Milker Training Schools Offer Hands-On Training

By MMPA Member Representative Kendra Stieg

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or over 90 years, Michigan Milk Producers Association has strived to provide the very best services for its members.

One service that is well known in the dairy industry today and has producers raving about their milk quality success is MMPA’s very own Milker Training School.

Around for over a decade, this hands-on learning experience offers our members a realistic oneof-a-kind educational opportunity.

The future for operating a dairy is more than just producing a greater volume of milk. The future is in consistently and reliably producing a high quality dairy product that keeps dairy consumers thirsting for more.

MMPA’s Milker Training School (MTS) is exactly what the vet ordered when it comes to improving the overall milk quality for our members. The MTSwill show you with hands-on demonstrations just how vital a consistently good milking routine is everyday on a dairy operation.

Focusing on udder prep, udder health, and milk let down can have wide reaching effects for your dairy.

Increased parlor efficiencies and improved milk quality is just the beginning. Most importantly, during Milker Training School our Milker Training School Team is there to provide you tools and knowledge that will help maximize your dairy’s

Mastitis Supervisor Tom Herremans times students at a profitability.

This day-long adventure is open to all of our members with any type of dairy experience. From 60 years of experience to just being recently hired, MTS offers something innovative for everyone.

The Milker Training School Team encourages all producers and their employees to join in on the fun and see exactly what many members can’t stop talking about.

The Milker Training School Team wants to reach members who have not yet experienced a Milker Training School. Survey cards will be sent out soon asking you if you would be interested in attending a school near your area. Send in your postcard to ensure that your area does not get overlooked in Milker Training School site selection. You do not want to miss out on this year’s MMPA Milker Training School!

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Michigan Farmers Open Their Doors to Over 13,000 Visitors

By Sara Long Photos courtesy of MSU ANR Communications

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MPA member families were among those who opened up their farmsteads to nearly 13,500 visitors of all ages— the majority of whom had never visited a farm – at eight Breakfast on the Farm events held across Michigan this summer.

MMPA members Jef-Len Dairy (Jeff and Patty Thelen), St. Johns; Circle K Dairy (Kartes family), West Branch; Daybreak Dairy (Elzinga family), Zeeland; S & M Dairy (Steve and Marlene Schulte family), Harbor Beach; Taylor Creek Farm (Kronemeyer family), Pickford; and Benthem Bros. Dairy, McBain, each hosted a Breakfast on the Farm during 2011. Other events were held at the Raymond and Stutzman Farm, Morenci, and Pasch Dairy, Mt. Pleasant.

The Breakfast on the Farm program offers non-farm consumers a first-hand look at modern food production practices and introduces them to the families who work hard every day to produce a safe, wholesome food supply. The fun and educational event emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship, food safety and humane animal care practices.

Amazing and awesome

Michigan State University (MSU) Extension agriculture literacy educator Nancy Thelen said she’s continuously amazed by the high levels of enthusiasm

expressed by the planning committees to educate non-farm consumers about agriculture and then to witness so many attendees taking time to thank the farmers for holding the event.

“People are so appreciative of the family that opens up their farm and the volunteers who answer their questions. They’re just so happy to get to see a working farm and learn about farming,” she said.

Missaukee County MMPA member Yvonne Benthem’s family hosted a Breakfast on the Farm September 24. She was amazed by how thankful people were to attend, as evidenced by the stack of thank you cards they received.

“We learned how important it is to show the life of a farmer and discovered how grateful the attendees were to have that chance to learn firsthand,” she said. “It was an awesome experience and very fun.”

Nate Elzinga from MMPA member farm Daybreak Dairy near Zeeland also received a large stack of thank you notes after their farm hosted an event August 13.

“I was amazed that people would take the time to write thank you cards. We have a stack that’s at least an inch-and-a-half high,” he said. “We received so much positive feedback. People were just so happy to have a chance to see a farm firsthand.”

Michigan Milk Messenger 15

Rewarding experience Paul Schulte, son of Harbor Beach MMPA members Steve and Marlene Schulte, said that the experience helped him develop his confidence for speaking in public.

“I knew how to talk to friends and fellow producers, but I really didn’t know how to talk to the public,” he said. “This experience offered me the chance to develop this skill.”

Hosting the event also proved to be a rewarding experience for Schulte’s employees who had an opportunity to explain their roles on the farm to attendees.

“It’s so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day routine and this provided a chance to step back and realize the many jobs we perform,” he said. “It’s funny, but the entire experience has made working on the farm more joyful and helped us realize how much we really do on a daily basis.”

The most memorable part for Benthem was watching the families with younger children visit the various stations across the farm.

“From feeding calves to seeing people lined up to go into the parlor, these people were having a ball seeing what farming was like,” she said. “People were so pleasant and asked a lot of questions.”

“It takes a lot of volunteers on the day of the event to make sure it runs smoothly, but it also takes a lot of people to plan a Breakfast, from securing sponsorships and donations to delivering tickets to local businesses and getting the farm ready for visitors,” she explained.

Elzinga said he was amazed to see how many people eagerly stepped forward to help.

“From industry to local farmers, having the support of all these people really ensured that the event ran smoothly from start to finish,” he said.

We’d do it again “I’d do it again,” Schulte said. “It takes a lot of time and there are so many little things that have to get done, especially during that last week when you’re putting in 20-plus hour days finishing up getting ready.

It’s definitely not a one-person deal!”

“We would do it again, if only to see the people who we weren’t able to meet and welcome them personally to the whole farm experience,” Benthem agreed. “It was definitely a learning experience,

but all the hard work that went into it was worth it.”

“It was an exciting thing to do and I’m glad we did it,” Elzinga added. “Offering these types of events and opening up our farms to the public really does make a difference.”

The BOTF program is an MSU Extension program guided by a statewide advisory council made up of industry representatives, former host farm families and MSU Extension educators. Events are made possible through the generous support of statewide and local sponsors. The statewide sponsors for 2011 were the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan and the Michigan Corn Growers Association, Dairy Farmers of America, Dairyland Seed Co. Inc., Dairy Marketing Services, Greenstone Farm Credit Services, the Michigan Ag Council, Michigan Milk Producers Association, the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee, Pioneer and the United Dairy Industry of Michigan.

Are you interested in hosting a Breakfast on the Farm in 2012?

“Going into it, I figured there would be a lot of off-the-wall questions, but people asked really good questions such as whether we let the cows go outside,” Schulte said. “It was gratifying to be able to answer their questions. Events like these are important because it opens doors to creating more public awareness about dairy farming.”

An application process will be used to choose a limited number of farms as 2012 Breakfast on the Farm hosts representing diverse geographic regions across the state. Applications will be reviewed by the state Breakfast on the Farm advisory council led by MSU Extension.

Potential host farm families should follow these steps to be considered in the 2012 selection process: •

Download the checklist of host farm expectations and application form at www.breakfastonthefarm.com (select “Contact us!”);

•

review the checklist of expectations;

It takes a community

•

complete the application form;

MSU Extension agriculture literacy educator Mary Dunckel said that more than 1,400 volunteers (an average 175 volunteers per event) stepped up to help prepare for and put on the Breakfasts.

•

contact your local MSU Extension educator to review and approve the completed application; and

•

submit the final application to MSU Extension agriculture literacy educators Nancy Thelen (thelenn@anr.msu.edu) and Mary Dunckel (dunckelm@anr.msu.edu) by Dec. 1.

16 November 2011

Successful applicants will be notified in December.

Michigan Milk Messenger 17

District 7 OYDC Alan and Melissa Simons

B

eing tied to a twice, or three, times a day milking schedule is often the hardest part of running a dairy farm. Field work, family time and other events come to an end when it is time to milk the cows – especially if the farm does not employ outside help. For Alan and Melissa Simons, the District 7 Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators, the answer to being tied to a milking schedule was a robotic milker. The Simons are the sole proprietors of their 75-cow family dairy farm. Running the farm, along with raising two young boys requires a tough balancing act. The Simons chose the robotic milker over more employees because of the timing flexibility.

“Everything used to stop at milking time,” Alan says. “If

18 November 2011

we were in the field, or doing something with our family, we had to rush back to milk the cows. Now, with the robotic system, the cows are being milked and we don’t have to be there.”

Although the robotic milker alleviates the time pressures of milking cows, Alan is quick to point out that it is not a “handsoff ” system. He spends more time checking data sheets and watching for cows that may not be visiting the milker often enough. They also have one employee that helps on the farm.

“We may not be ‘hands on’ with the milking process but we are certainly not hands-off either,” Alan says. “In fact, we probably know our cows better now using the robotic milker than when we were

milking in the parlor.”

Each cow is fitted with an electronic transmitter that records information on each animal. Using production information each cow is fed an individual grain ration that is fed while she is being milked. Cows only receive the feed when they are being milked, only four times a day; even if they enter the milker more often. The balance of the ration is fed in the feed bunks. In addition to monitoring the feed ration, milk production, heat detection and overall health is also monitored.

Alan mixes a partial mixed ration to be fed in the freestalls.

This ration is approximately 90 percent of the complete ration; the remaining 10 percent is offered when the cow is milked. Keeping the ration light in the barn helps

encourage the cows to visit the milker more often. While the cows are free to enter the milker at any time, feed is only give a certain number of times in a 24-hour period depending on the cow’s stage of lactation. On average, the Simons cows are milk 2.5 times a day.

Tracking the data generated through the milking system gives Alan information to control costs and work toward a more efficient feeding program. They are also working to improve milk quality.

“We are not trying for the highest production,” Alan says. “We are working toward the most costeffective production. We watch feed costs closely and balance the feed ration with the cow’s production to obtain the best match.”

The Simons carry that approach to their entire farm management program. They have worked to improve their forage quality, realizing that the forage can have the biggest impact on production and have incorporated no-till cropping practices to control

erosion and to save time and fuel.

Alan currently farms 900 acres spread over nearly 10 miles. Until the recent slow down in housing developments, purchasing land for farming was unrealistic. Now with lower land prices the prospect of farming more acres is more obtainable.

“We work to have a clean operation with an open-door policy for our neighbors,” Melissa says.

“We know it is important to present a good image of farming and try to do our part.”

Growing the cow herd is limited by the robotic milker capacity. Presently, they are at the upper limit of the number of cows for their system. If they grow their herd, they will need to add another milking unit.

“We are keeping a steady pace with our own replacements,” Alan says. “We would like to get to a point where we had another unit but again, it would have to make sense from an economic standpoint.”

Alan equates the investment in the robotic milking unit to the purchasing of a larger combine.

“Farmers are accustomed to purchasing larger equipment to make field work easier and quicker, I see the investment in the robotic milker the same way, except the robot is working 20 hours a day, every day.”

Alan and Melissa took over ownership of the family farm in 2007 when they purchased it from his grandfather, Albert.

“I couldn’t imagine doing anything else,” Alan says. “This is where I grew up and this is what I have always wanted to do and now I am raising my own kids here. We make decisions here that allow us to operate with a low debt ratio so hopefully the farm can continue to the next generation.”

Alan and Melissa are members of the St. Clair-Macomb MMPA Local and District 7. In addition to MMPA membership, Alan was recently elected to the Michigan Hay and Forage Council.

Michigan Milk Messenger 19

Third Annual Fuel Up to Play 60 Kick Off to School Health at Ford Field Pictures and article by the United Dairy Industry of Michigan

M

ore than 200 students representing schools across Michigan traveled to Ford Field in Detroit recently to learn about the importance of eating right and staying active from nutrition and health experts and several current and former Detroit Lions football players. The students learned a number of fun and easyto-implement “plays” that can be integrated into their school’s nutrition and physical activity programs at this year’s Fuel Up to Play 60 Kick Off to School Health, an event focused on inspiring students, schools and communities to create healthier school environments.

Fuel Up to Play 60 (FUTP 60) is a student-driven in-school wellness program developed by the National Football League (NFL) and the National Dairy Council (NDC), in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Through FUTP 60, students are empowered to work with school decisionmakers to plan and implement strategies to increase the amount of nutritious food choices and options for physical activity available in their schools.

Community Health (MDCH) to offer this opportunity to Michigan students. The day’s “game plan” included music, motivational talks, practicing football training campstyle skills with Detroit Lions players and trainers, and sampling healthy and tasty food.

Shannon Carney Oleksyk, Michigan Department of Community Health, said FUTP 60 is a catalyst for change. Participating gets the kids engaged and excited about eating healthy and moving more.

“Our department is really excited about how this program complements our work on the Michigan Nutrition Standards,” she explained.

“It’s the student

action and student implementation that helps to make those standards come to fruition in a school; it inspires students to become champions for change and make things happen.”

FUTP 60 encourages students and adults to adopt healthy lifestyles, including daily physical activity and making nutrient-rich food choices, which includes fat-free and low-fat dairy, fruits, vegetables

Students hit the playing field to learn training campstyle practice drills from Detroit Lions’ trainers and players.

In its third year, Fuel Up to Play 60 is reaching more than 3,000 Michigan schools and more than 1.4 million Michigan students. To date, more than 70,000 schools have participated in the “Fuel Up to Play 60” program in the United States and provided opportunities to make positive and lasting changes to nutrition and physical activity programs affecting millions of students.

United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) partnered with the Detroit Lions, Michigan Department of Education (MDE) and Michigan Department of 20 November 2011

Students show their “moves” in the “post-game celebration” flash workout session.

and whole grains. Many Americans are missing out on several essential nutrients, so FUTP 60 helps schools offer choices that can improve nutritional intake. Being active for 60 minutes a day, along with developing healthy eating habits, can improve overall health and help to build lifelong healthy behaviors.

The pre-game an energetic show with Jill Jayne, “Jump with Jill!” rock star nutritionist and registered dietitian. The first quarter kicked off with pep talks by Luther Elliss, former Detroit Lions defensive tackle and two-time Pro Bowler, and Herman Moore, former Detroit Lions wide receiver and four-time Pro Bowler.

Moore has participated with the FUTP 60 program for a couple of years and he’s quick to emphasize the importance of the program to schools.

“I really believe in their [FUTP 60] initiative to try to get kids to become more active,” he said.“ I know that some schools have eliminated physical education programs and related activities, especially in the lower grades, so now more than ever I think it’s important to really teach kids about nutrition and help them understand the importance of exercising and not sitting around.”

Moore also added, “For me it’s about having the right balance between protein and carbs, but also including things like low-fat and fat-free dairy—cheese and milk – in my diet,” he said. “Getting the right things into your body is important, especially in the morning to get the body going, like granola, fruit and milk.”

The next highlight for students was the announcement of individual school “teams” as they ran through the player tunnel onto the field for the second quarter “training camp.” Here, students were led through practice drills by Elliss, Moore, Lions trainers, and current player defensive end Cliff Avril.

Students sampled nutritious and affordable breakfast options such as yogurt parfaits and smoothies, whole grain cereal and milk and whole grain pancakes.

Chocolate milk was on hand throughout the day to help students stay hydrated and strong.

First-year FUTP 60 Kick Off to School Health attendee Nathan Harbottle, a physical education teacher from Jackson Public Schools’ Frost Elementary, said their school started serving students fruits and vegetables as a healthy snack part way Luther Elliss, former Detroit Lions defensive through the school day.

tackle and two-time Pro Bowler, pauses to sign

“I love the idea autographs. of adding even more healthy snacks to our trip home, each school team was program, such as adding yogurt to photographed with Elliss, Moore the breakfast menu to enhance its and Burleson. nutritional value. I’ve also gotten

Detroit Lions’ manager of several ideas from the workout drills Corporate Development and that can be added to our physical Sponsorship Sales Matt Schul said education classes,” he said. “I’d FUTP 60 is his favorite account to like to thank UDIM, the dairy work with and they [Lions] hope farmers and the Lions for putting to have the partnership for years to this event on. It’s [FUTP 60] a great come. opportunity for students to learn

“We have a lot of families who about nutrition and exercise.” come out to the games and we want

During the third quarter, to make sure that everyone knows former physical educator and what it takes for our players to be action-based learning expert Jean healthy,” he said.

Blaydes Madigan revealed the secret

Schul added that partnering of boosting brain power through with FUTP 60 helps share the exercise. In the fourth quarter, Detroit Lions’ message about eating Detroit Lions wide receiver, Nate healthy, including consuming lowBurleson, gave attendees a pep talk fat dairy products, and exercising. about the benefits of eating healthy and being active.

“It’s the whole package that

The final highlight came during counts in the end,” he said. “What you do as a young person will the “post-game celebration” when benefit you as an adult. Eating students – joined by Elliss, Moore healthy and having a healthy body and Burleson – took part in a flash and mind will take you to the right workout session to the tune of Jill place.”

Jayne’s, “Beat of Our Body,” an energizing dance routine created

To learn more about the “Fuel by the Rockstar Nutritionist. Prior Up to Play 60” program, visit www. to being dismissed for the return FuelUpToPlay60.com.

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

Michigan Milk Messenger 21

MSU Dairy Club Holiday Cheese Sale Online sales now available at www.msudairyclubcheese.com

A. Aristocrat This extensive collection includes 1/2 pound blocks of Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, Sharp Cheddar, and Smoked Cheddar. Also, included are three 8-ounce spreads of Sharp Cheddar, Bacon, and Garlic.

The box is topped off with 1 pound of Beef Summer Sausage and Ritz Crackers.

Pick up order: $36.00; Shipped order: $44.00

B. MSU Country Sampler Show your Spartan pride with this delightful array of MSU cheeses. Included are 1/2 pound blocks of Pepper Jack, Mild Cheddar, Colby Jack, Sharp Cheddar, Chocolate Cheese, and Smoked Cheddar all produced at MSU’s own Dairy Processing Plant.

Pick up order: $24.00; Shipped order: $34.00

C. MSU Party Box Enjoy this collection of MSU cheeses. Includes 1/2 pound blocks of Smoked Cheddar, Pepper Jack and Cheddar Cheese. Add on a 1 pound chub of Beef Summer Sausage and you have a great box for all of your holiday get togethers.

Pick up order: $24.00; Shipped order: $32.oo

D. Cheddar Box Includes all three cheddars the MSU Dairy Plant has to offer: Mild, Sharp, and Smoked Cheddar in 1/2 pound blocks. Also, included is an 8-ounce Sharp Cheddar spread from Jim’s Cheese Pantry.

Pick up order: $20.00; Shipped order: $28.00

E. The Classic Box Help support Farm Safety 4 Just Kids! For every Classic box sold, MSU Dairy Club will donate a dollar to help support and promote safety among children and youth on farms.

This box contains 1/2 pound blocks of Mild Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar and Colby Jack.

Pick up order: $17.00; Shipped order: $26.00

F. Michigan 4-H Cheese Blocks Support Michigan 4-H Dairy Youth and its programs by purchasing a one pound block of Mild Cheddar, made from the milk collected at Michigan 4-H Dairy Days.

Pick up order: $7.50 per block; Shipped order: $15.00 per block

M

MPA, in cooperation with the MSU Dairy Club, once again presents several fine cheeses for your holiday gift giving. Special efforts have been taken to offer a wide variety of high quality cheese selections at a great price!

Over the counter cheese box sales will take place November 10-23 in the lobby of the MSU Dairy Store. Orders may also be purchased and picked up in person on December 1 and 2 at Anthony Hall. For more information, contact the MSU Dairy Club members listed on the next page.

Online sales now available at www.msudairyclubcheese.com

MSU Dairy Club 53rd Holiday Cheese Online sales now available at www.msudairyclubcheese.com All Orders Must Be Postmarked by November 25, 2011

Please Mail orders to: The MSU Dairy Club 1272 Anthony Hall East Lansing, MI 48824 Make checks payable to: The MSU Dairy Club

Purchaser Name: Address: City:

State:

Zip:

Phone#:

Order 1

PICKUP: December 1 December 2 OR SHIP (fill out info below, no P.O. Boxes)

Please include this message in my greeting card:

SHIP TO: Address: City: Item Letter

Description

State: Price

MSU Dairy Club Sales Representative: __________________________________

Zip: Quantity

Total

Total

Thank you for your generous support of the MSU Dairy Club!

Order 2

PICKUP: December 1 December 2 OR SHIP (fill out info below, no P.O. Boxes)

Please include this message in my greeting card:

SHIP TO: Address: City: Item Letter

Description

State: Price

MSU Dairy Club Sales Representative: __________________________________

Zip: Quantity

Total

Total

For more information, please contact the following MSU Dairy Club Officers: VPI; Cheese Sale Co-Chair: Kelsey Byars byarskel@msu.edu 517-281-5438 VPII; Cheese Sale Co-Chair: Carrie Szybisty szybisty@msu.edu 313-530-1072 President: Tera Koebel koebelte@msu.edu 269-921-2971

Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Challenges 84th National FFA Convention Participants to Pursue Careers in Agriculture

A

griculture Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke to the 84th National FFA Convention about the critical need to recruit and support the nation’s next generation of farmers and ranchers.

“America’s producers are the most productive and successful in the world – with a willingness to embrace change, new science and innovative technologies to fulfill the noble task of feeding a nation,” said Vilsack.

“To continue that success, we need organizations like FFA working creatively to build policies, structures and institutions that will ensure the next generation can continue to feed and fuel the world.”

USDA’s focus on developing new generations of beginning farmers and ranchers is a result of America’s aging farming community. In the last five years there has been a 20% decrease in the number of farmers under 45. Today the average American farmer is 57 whereas five years ago it was 55. Today, nearly 30% of American farmers are over the age of 65 – almost double what it is in the general workforce.

Secretary Vilsack highlighted USDA programs that are committed to investing more resources and energy to recruit the next generation of farmers and to finding strategies to make these beginning farmers successful. The USDA Office of Advocacy and Outreach assists people who want to learn about USDA’s efforts to support new producers. In the past two years, more than 40% of all USDA’s farm loans have gone to beginning farmers and ranchers.

The Farm Service Agency provides Beginning Farmer and Rancher loans. These are direct and guaranteed loans to beginning farmers and ranchers who are unable to obtain financing from commercial credit sources. Each fiscal year, the Agency targets a portion of its direct and guaranteed farm ownership and operating loan funds to beginning farmers and ranchers. In addition, the National Institute of Food and Agriculture Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program provides funding to develop and offer education, training, outreach and mentoring programs to enhance the sustainability of the next generation of farmers.

USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) is working with partners to support young, motivated entrepreneurs who are looking past traditional ways of bringing products to market. Through RMA funding for the Farm Credit Council, the “Field Guide to the New American Foodshed” was developed to assist the growing numbers of directmarket farms and ranches and also the lenders,

24 November 2011

accountants and other businesses who work with them.

Additionally, the USDA Nation Agricultural Library is working in partnership with the American Farm Bureau Federation to develop a ‘Curriculum USDA Secretary Vilsack addresses and Training the National FFA Convention Clearinghouse’ at Start2Farm.gov, which will serve as a national one-stop source of all beginning farmer and rancher education and training materials online.

“The future of agriculture is bright and will present the next generation with incredible opportunities to pursue,” said Vilsack. “Young people should continue to engage in policy that affects them – but they shouldn’t be limited by it. We need them to think big, innovate, and tackle the important challenges facing American agriculture and the nation as a whole.”

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MSU dairy judging teams compete in World Dairy Expo contest

T

he Michigan State University (MSU) collegiate dairy judging team brought home the title that MSU teams for decades before had been chasing: first place team in oral reasons.

MSU animal science freshman Garrett Slavik, Ashley (Gratiot County); and MSU animal science freshman Carmen Zwemmer, Elkton (Huron County).

breed, seventh high individual in the Ayrshire breed and 10th overall.

Slavik finished 17th overall, and was second in Ayrshires and 16th in oral reasons. Zwemmer placed sixth in Ayrshires.

In addition to winning oral This year’s MSU dairy judging reasons, Horning was the second team got the job done: Katie Arndt, high individual in the Guernsey

advertising senior from St. Johns; Lauren Bush, animal science junior from Swartz Creek; Tera Koebel, MSU agribusiness junior from Three Oaks; and Eric Sneller, Perfect Udder animal science senior from Delivery System Sebewaing. The team was accompanied by Dr. Joe Domecq, specialist in the MSU Department of Animal Contains the same Convert ImmPower™ Science and the collegiate formulation with the added convenience dairy judging coach.

Three team members cracked the top ten in the oral reasons division to secure the top rank: Koebel placed third, Arndt was ninth, and Bush finished tenth.

MSU was one of 21 teams competing in this year’s contest, which was the 91st annual.

Horning Wins Oral Reasons in 4-H Contest

and biosecurity features of the Perfect Udder delivery system.

Bacterial Contamination is a Problem 524 colostrum samples from seven California dairies shows 40% of samples exceeded bacteria count threshold.

source

average total plate count cfu/ml

average coliform cfu/ml

Udder

28

8

Tube Feeder

45,709

28,184

Bucket

97,724

51,286

Refrigerated, 24h

562,341

316,228

Ambient temp, 24h

18,197,009

2,454,709 Presented at ADSA 2011

Immunoglobulin G1 concentration and bacterial contamination of colostrum fed to newborn Holstein heifers in Central California dairies The objective of this study was to evaluate the current status of IgG1 concentration and bacterial contamination of first feeding colostrum under existing management practices of seven Central California dairies.

I. Z. Zhelev1, N. D. Spiro1, and J. D. Robison1, J. Quigley2, A. Lago2 1 California State University, Fresno, 2APC, Inc., Ankeny, Iowa.

 Convert ImmPower Perfect Udder™ delivery system comes pre-measured in its own clean

& sealed mixing pouch, so no buckets, whisks or utensils are needed.

Michigan 4-H team  Simply add warm water to the fill line, shake vigorously & the product is ready for feeding member and Michigan State

in 2 minutes.

University (MSU) animal science sophomore Katelyn  Perfect Udder is portable and goes where you go so it’s ready for Horning, Manchester won use when you are. first place overall in the oral reasons division at the All you need is clean source of water.

National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest held Oct. 3 in Madison, Wis.

The Michigan 4-H team was one of 29 teams competing in the annual contest held in conjunction with World Dairy Expo.

Team members were MSU dairy management freshman Casei Hart, Grass Lake (Jackson County); Horning;

Michigan Milk Messenger 25

Livestock Gross Margin-Dairy Fiscal Year 2012

T

he USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) announced in mid-October its plans to provide $20 million in funding for various livestock insurance programs. Out of the total funding, $7 million has been allocated to the Livestock Gross Margin (LGM) Dairy Program for the 2012 fiscal year.

Friday, October 28, was the first signup date for the 2012 crop year.

The LGM-Dairy purchase period starts at the end of the last business Friday of each month and ends at 9:00 p.m. ET the next day (Saturday). The LGMDairy program will continue until the funding runs out. The amount allocated for the LGMDairy program for fiscal year 2012 is less than half of what was used in fiscal year 2011 so there is speculation that funding will run out quickly and could be exhausted in this first offering. LGM-Dairy utilized approximately $16.2 million of funding during fiscal year 2011.

MSU Extension Dairy Educator, Craig Thomas, has an article in the October issue of Michigan Dairy Review explaining the benefits and workings of the program. The article may be accessed through a link on the MMPA website at www.mimilk. com or by using www.msu.edu/ user/mdr.

crop insurance who have agents certified to sell LGM-Dairy. A list of approved agents can be obtained from a University of Wisconsin website at http://future.aae.wisc. edu and click on the “LGM-Dairy” tab, then click on the “List of LGMDairy Providers.”

LGM-Dairy policies can be purchased from firms selling federal

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Letter Sent to Super Committee Recommending $23 Billion in Cuts NCFC Update

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he chairmen and ranking members of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees last week sent their letter to the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction, known popularly in Washington as the “Super Committee.”

The letter states that the committees are working to finalize policies to reduce the deficit by $23 billion over the next decade, and that they hope to have a legislative package outlining these cuts by November 1. Left unanswered in the letter was how the committees would apportion the cuts across various farm bill titles, though media reports in October had commodity programs taking the largest hit with both conservation programs and nutrition funding contributing smaller shares toward the deficit reduction goal.

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MMPA joined with a coalition of livestock organizations in sending a letter to the Super Committee noting the importance of the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to animal agriculture producers. The letter urged that additional cuts not come from EQIP.

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Increasing Iodine Prices

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he earthquake and tsunami that caused such severe damage to Japan is affecting the price of iodine here in the U,S. Japan accounts for approximately 29% of the world’s iodine output while Chile accounts for about 70%. Six weeks of iodine production was lost in Japan due to this disaster. That loss has yet to be made up. Chile also experienced some production issues in early 2011. While our vendors have been able to of iodine for the remainder secure an adequate supply of the year, it has come at a considerably higher price.

Stock number 3509 3510 3511 6052 6982 6078 3525 3526 6065 6118 6984 6994 6097 3522 3520 3507 3508 3518 5900 6991 6104 6990 6106 6989 6108 6010 6046 28 November 2011

Description Aloe Dip 5gal Aloe Dip 15gal Aloe Dip 55gal Ideal 5gal Ideal 15gal Ideal 55gal Protect 5gal Protect 15gal Teat Glo 1gal Teat Glo 5gal Teat Glo Spray 15gal Teat Glo Dip 15gal Teat Glo Dip 55gal IO-Mix 4 15gal IO-Mix 4 55gal IO-Mix 10 15gal IO-Mix 10 55gal IO-Mix Plus Optima 5gal Optima 15gal Optima 55gal Optima Plus 15gal Optima Plus 55gal Legend-HC 15gal Legend-HC 55gal Monodine 1gal Teat Gard 50 5gal

Unfortunately they have had to pass this increase on to us. This means prices for iodine teat dips and udder washes will increase effective October 1.

The warehouse carries a variety of ready to use and concentrated iodine dips. It is important to consider cost per gallon when comparing the ready to use and concentrate dips. Concentrates are mixed at different ratios and this will affect the cost per gallon. Listed below are the dips we carry. Please call the warehouse for additional information.

Type RTU-pre/post RTU-pre/post RTU-pre/post RTU-barrier RTU-barrier RTU-barrier RTU-barrier RTU-barrier RTU-post RTU-post RTU-post RTU-post RTU-post 1:3 conc.

1:3 conc.

1:9 conc.

1:9 conc.

1:3 conc.

1:9 conc.

1:9 conc.

1:9 conc.

1:3 conc.

1:3 conc.

1:3 conc.

1:3 conc.

Udder wash RTU-pre dip

Member Price 64.94 182.64 642.26 79.05 225.13 740.00 80.56 231.35 16.81 80.50 225.75 225.75 676.38 404.09 1430.00 604.83 1907.21 331.50 292.38 658.75 1932.25 342.50 1054.25 423.00 1474.00 16.51 48.00

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

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

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

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

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

Freeliners Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 224 to place your ad

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.

Registered Holstein breeding bulls, all AI sired from top bulls, b&w, red, red carrier and some polled, high production, low SCC herd.

Bulls are priced to sell. Ver Hage Holsteins, 269-673-4886 or 269-217-6076, ask for Tim. www.verhageholsteins.com.

Reg. Holstein bulls, 6 to choose from this fall including 1 red & white, all the way to 2150 GTPI. Wardin Bros. 989-642-3262.

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).

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

Cows and Heifers Springing heifers: 2 Jerseys 7 mo. pregnant, 10 crossbred 5-6 mo. pregnant. Jeremy Werth, 989-464-4022.

Herd Reduction: bred heifers, 1st & 2nd lactation cows for sale. A.I. bred, 100% ID. Call Tom 616-446-2670 for more information.

Equipment Kasten self unloading wagon, black later model, always washed and oiled after use, always housed, $2,250, 734-368-5814.

International 720, spring reset, 618 on land plow, $2,200, 989-848-5541.

J.D. 925 Moco, good cond., 9 ft. 6 in. cut, discbine w/ impeller, $9,200, 616-897-0620.

Lilliston edible bean combines, field ready, one parts combine, assorted spare parts, $7,900 for all, 616-754-3082.

Fox chopper, 1,000 BTO, 2 row corn head, 6 ft. hay head, electric knife sharpener, electric spout and 4 screens, 989-386-2360.

Val-Metal 24 ft. silo unloader, new in ’07, new distributor in 2010. Wardin Bros. 989642-3262.

Dairy Equipment

Automatic rollermill, $2,000, 269-945-4622.

800 gal. Sunset bulk tank w/ washer. 3 yr. old 10 hp oilless vacuum pump. Pipeline w/ 4 classic 300 Surge milkers. 231-229-4461.

Corn dryer Super B AS400, exc. cond., 616218-9350.

Feed

2007 NH FP240 chopper, 3 row snapping head, 3 row corn head, 8 ft. hay head, $50,000. 2 – 14 ft. steel dump wagons, 12 ton Knowles gear, Midwest hoist, $8,500 ea. All field ready, 989-666-4026.

Straw for sale, 3x3x7 ft. bales, can deliver, 810-710-6504.

Valmetal 4 bale self propelled bedding chopper, new, $4,000 obo. Knight 3042 mixer, fair, $3,000. 989-658-2373.

Wanted Straw chopper and N.I. one row corn picker, 231-924-2430.

• 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 November 2011

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

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!

Leading the Way ... in Dairy Sanitation & Animal Care Solutions Udder Health

Premise Disinfectants

Parlor Cleaning

Tank & Silo Sanitation

Pipeline Sanitation

Livestock Disease Intervention Programs

Contact us for more information: www.ecolab.com 1.800.392.3392 Š 2011 All rights reserved.

Michigan Milk Messenger 31

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

Classified Ads ($5.65 per line) Mail ads, preferably typewritten, 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 $11.30 (two 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: 5000-4000-3000-2500-20001500 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. ______________________________________ Steel combine tracks for sale, fits Case 2188, 269-501-2032. _____________________________________

Wanted: A dairy to custom raise heifers from 200 lb. to breeding size. We have room for 500 head. Would consider raising from babies to breeding size. 23 yr. of experience. 231-825-0214.

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

SILO-KING

ÂŽ

a five star solution

With Corn Prices This High, Good Corn Silage Has Never Been Worth More.

Mike Donaldson Andrew Arens David Conklin 517-819-7002 517-819-0714 989-666-2039 David Lightner Brian Sanford 517-490-6677 517-256-7750 800-435-9560 32 November 2011

www . agriking . com

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 12 month period.

Michigan Milk Messenger 33

Market Report For Milk Marketed in September 2011

MARKET STATISTICS Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

This Month

Year Ago

% Change

Total Class 1 Sales

542,862,735

544,532,102

-0.31

Total Class 2 Sales

245,852,357

176,926,897

+38.96

Total Class 3 Sales

447,383,798

472,197,768

-5.25

Total Class 4 Sales

71,139,092

58,276,732

+22.07

1,307,237,982 1,251,933,499

+4.42

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

41.5%

43.5%

Mideast Federal Order #33

Current Month Total Producers 6,697 Average Daily Production per Farm 6,507 Average Protein Test 3.07% Average Butterfat Test 3.65% Average Other Solids Test 5.70% Average SCC Count (MMPA) 206,000

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

$3.0282

Butterfat Price/lb.

$2.2005

Other Solids Price/lb.

$0.4053

Class III Price @ 3.5%

$ 19.07

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

$1.88 $ 20.95 $0.00093

NASS Survey Prices

Monthly Avg.

Cheese/lb. 2.1402 Butter/lb. 2.0695 Nonfat Dry Milk/lb.

1.5739

Dry Whey/lb.

0.5691

34 November 2011

NATIONAL TRENDS (million pounds)

Production California

2011

2010 % Change

3,314

3,294

+0.6

Wisconsin

2,124

2,086

+1.8

Idaho

1,117

1,085

+2.9

New York

1,037

1,036

+0.1

854

867

-1.5

774

703 +10.1

Minnesota

714

719

-0.7

Michigan

690

677

+1.9

New Mexico

669

641

+4.4

Washington

517

490

+5.5

415

421

-1.4

Indiana

281

272

+3.3

* Total U.S.

14,760

14,481

+1.9

137,387 134,896

+1.8

Pennsylvania Texas

Ohio

* U.S. Y-T-D * For 23 states

COMMODITY CREDIT CORP. (CCC) PURCHASES (million pounds)

Butter Cheese Nonfat Dry Milk Total Solids

This Year Month Ago 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

MMPA Staff NOVI (Headquarters) 248-474-6672

800-572-5824 General Manager Clay Galarneau, ext. 200 Member Services/Quality Control Milk Sales/Dispatch Finance/Controller Gary Trimner, ext. 213 Carl Rasch, ext. 244 Joseph M. Diglio, ext. 240 Producer Testing/Herd Health Programs Manufactured Sales Credit/Insurance

Dean Letter, ext. 217 Jim Dodson, ext. 229 Cheryl Schmandt, ext. 210 Laboratory Supervisor Member Relations/Public Affairs Data Processing

Patti Huttula, ext. 219 Sheila Burkhardt, ext. 208 Gregory Schulkey, ext. 237 Human Resources Member Communications

Cindy Tilden, ext. 220 Laura Moser, 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 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 Preston Cole............................231-584-2587 Mancelona mobile 989-289-9301 Steven Lehman.......................989-875-3441 Ithaca mobile 989-330-1638 Katie Pierson.................................................

Coleman mobile 989-289-9686 Kendra Stieg..................................................

Kentwood mobile 269-245-6632 Gerry Volz...............................989-848-5996 Fairview mobile 989-289-9219

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

Fairgrove mobile 989-528-9102 Richard Fluegge............................................

Cass City mobile 248-709-0283 Michael Marvin.............................................

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

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

Clio mobile 269-986-6793 SOUTH AREA Supervisor: Lyndsay Stakenas Coldwater Office................. 231-519-2455 Krista Beeker.................................................

Howe, IN mobile 269-986-6792 David Brady............................517-522-5965 Grass Lake mobile 517-937-9061 Melissa Erdman............................................

Kalamazoo mobile 810-701-6460 Lyndsay Stakenas..........................................

Coldwater mobile 231-519-2455 Ed Zuchnik....................................................

Three Rivers mobile 269-967-7351

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 Ovid: 989-834-2515 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily Constantine: 800-391-7560 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily 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

Simply better

Digestibility.

Agronomics.

Profitability.

Better for tonnage. Better for agronomic stability. Better for farm profitability. New for 2012, Pioneer ® hybrid P1376XR, a 113 CRM Brown MidRib hybrid was discovered in elite Pioneer germplasm. Pioneer hybrid P1376XR offers the digestibility you expect from a BMR, plus the agronomic traits you need to fill your bunker, including superior stress tolerance and standability.

It’s just one of the many new forage solutions we’re developing that are simply better.

To learn more, ask your Pioneer sales professional about the new BMR and other corn silage hybrids that fit your specific needs or visit www.pioneer.com/BMR.

Roundup Ready and Roundup are registered trademarks used under license from Monsanto Company.

®

Herculex ® Insect Protection technology by Dow AgroSciences and Pioneer Hi‑Bred.

Herculex and the HX logo are registered trademarks of Dow AgroSciences LLC.

®

Ignite ®, LibertyLink and the Water Droplet Design are trademarks of Bayer. ® TM SM , , Trademarks and service marks of Pioneer Hi‑Bred.

All purchases are subject to the terms of labeling and purchase documents. © 2011 PHII. FORAG023041P360AVA