Milk Producer_November 2025

MILK PRODUCER MAGAZINE CELEBRATING 100 YEARS 19 25-2025

NOVEMBER 2025 | THE VOICE OF ONTARIO DAIRY PRODUCERS

YOUNG farmers STRONGbond

Sibling teamwork and next-gen leadership keeps the Hendrikx family farm thriving

Smarter Dairy Stronger Future

Transition Management Index (TMI)

The transition period is the most challenging stage of a cow’s lactation, characterized by high energy demands, mineral imbalances, and a greater risk of disease.

Lactanet’s Transition Management Index (TMI):

• Helps dairy farms better manage the transition period of their herd.

• Offers insights into udder health, energy status, dry period length, and culling to maximize the herds long-term productivity and profitability.

Ontario and Western Canada dairy producers can enjoy the TMI during a free trial until March 1st, 2026

PUBLISHED BY

DAIRY FARMERS OF ONTARIO

6780 Campobello Road Mississauga, ON L5N 2L8

COMMUNICATIONS

Sandra Da Silva sandra.da-silva@milk.org 905-817-2178

ADVERTISING

Pat Logan pat.logan@milk.org 519-788-1559

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Katrina Teimo

COVER STORY PHOTOGRAPHY

Martin Schwable

CONTRIBUTORS

Jeff Hyndman, Robert Matson, Jeanine Moyer, Bethany Lipka, Isaac Kwarteng, Angie Wilson, Jessica St John, Lilian Schaer, Chris McCullough, Veal Farmers of Ontario.

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Opinions expressed herein are those of the author and/ or editor and do not necessarily reflect the opinion or policies of Dairy Farmers of Ontario. Publication of advertisements does not constitute endorsement or approval by Milk Producer or Dairy Farmers of Ontario of products or services advertised.

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YOUNG FARMERS, STRONG BOND

Scott and Erin Hendrikx are proving that sibling teamwork and the next generation of leadership can keep a family farm thriving through innovation, resilience and shared goals

Breaking down compost bedded packs

Bridging the gap between research and farming

Kendra Keels honoured with the Carl Block Award for her life-long leadership in the Canadian livestock sector

Ontario Milk Transport Association awards 2025

Aussie farm future uncertain as it’s slowly swallowed up by inner suburbia

The future of our dairy industry: Our young producers

By Bart Rijke,

Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) Board Member, Region 1, Ottawa-Carleton (twp. of Cumberland), Glengarry, Prescott and Russell. Bart chairs the DFO Governance Committee, and serves on the Audit Committee, Markets and Allocation Committee and Quota Committee, as well as the Ontario Advisory Committee for Milk and the P5 Quota Committee. He is also on the Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC) Board of Directors, was recently elected as Second Vice-President of Dairy Farmers of Canada and serves as Chair of the Sustainability Committee.

In a 2024 edition of Milk Producer, I shared my journey as a first-generation dairy farmer, having immigrated to Canada from the Netherlands with no prior farming experience. Over the past 43 years, I’ve weathered many challenges and gained valuable insights, but one lesson has stayed with me: resiliency is key to building a lasting and meaningful career in dairy farming.

As I reflect on the future of our industry, I see a critical need for a new generation of dairy producers – young people who bring fresh curiosity, a hunger to learn and the practical know-how to navigate today’s challenges. Their role isn’t just important, it’s essential. Their innovation, resilience and willingness to learn are exactly what this industry needs to thrive and to produce high-quality milk.

Young producers have a willingness to adopt technology and an appetite for learning. My advice: never stop learning! Broaden your horizons and stay informed. The dairy world is evolving fast – technology, sustainability and

animal welfare are reshaping how we farm. Explore different ways to innovate, attend workshops, ask questions and seek out mentors. The more you expose yourself to, the better equipped you’ll be to build a successful and forward-thinking dairy farm operation.

Mentorship and strong networks are powerful drivers of progress. No one becomes a strong producer in isolation – family, peer groups and industry partners shorten learning curves. Young producers thrive when seasoned mentors offer practical guidance, and experienced producers gain fresh perspectives and renewed energy from the next generation. If we want a resilient dairy sector, we must invest in young people. I encourage those who have spent decades in the industry to step forward as mentors. Your knowledge is invaluable, and your support can shape the future of dairy.

Also, young producers should lean into community. Farming can be isolating, especially when you’re starting from scratch, but you

Bart Rijke

don’t have to go it alone. Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. Join producer groups, attend local agricultural events and build relationships with fellow farmers and industry partners. These connections are your lifeline when times get tough and a sounding board when making big decisions. I’ll always be grateful for the peers and community who welcomed me early on. It made my transition into dairy farming not only smoother, but far more rewarding.

You don’t need a family legacy to become a dairy farmer. I’m living proof of that. What truly matters is grit, heart and a relentless drive to grow. The future of dairy depends on young producers who are willing to take risks, embrace change and lead the industry forward. If you’re stepping into this field, know that your energy and perspective are the foundation of what comes next. Embrace every opportunity to learn, and trust that your contributions will shape the future of dairy for generations to come.

Vicky Morrison

next generation farming

‘‘ I really like how fast the attachment is. The GEA DairyRobot R9500 is very cow friendly, the cows are comfortable in the box. It milks a quarter at the time which help us keeping only the good milk in the tank. ’’

Michael Flaman

Chris Adie Holsteins, Vibank, SK

Scan the QR code to watch the complete story of Chris Adie Holsteins of Vibank, Saskatchewan.

BRITISH COLOMBIA

Pacific Dairy Centre Ltd.

Chilliwack — 604 852-9020

ALBERTA

Dairy Lane Systems Alberta

Leduc: 780 986-5600

Blackfalds: 587 797-4521

Lethbridge: 587 787-4145

Lethbridge Dairy Mart Ltd.

Lethbridge — 888 329-6202

Red Deer — 403 406-7344

SASKATCHEWAN

Dairy Lane Systems Saskatchewan Warman — 306 242-5850

Emerald Park — 306 721-6844

Swift Current — 306 203-3066

MANITOBA

Tytech Grand Pointe — 204 770-4898

ONTARIO

Conestogo Agri Systems Inc. Alma — 519 638-3022

Dairy Lane Systems Komoka — 519 666-1404

Lawrence’s Dairy Supply Inc. Moose Creek — 6 13 538-2559

McCann Farm Automation Ltd.

Seeley’s Bay — 613 382-7411

McLaren Works Cobden — 613 646-2062

Performance Dairy Centre Inc. Embro — 519 423-9119

ATLANTIC PROVINCES

Atlantic Dairy Tech, Inc.

AMS Sub-dealer for Sheehy Entreprises Ltd.

Charlottetown, PE — 902 368-1719

Sheehy Entreprises Ltd.

Shubenacadie, NS — 902 758-2002

Lower Queensbury, NB — 506 478-4878

QA &

FSR training in support of quality Ontario milk

Dairy Farmers of Ontario’s (DFO) Field Services Representatives (FSRs) are not only milk inspectors, they are also your support for everything from milk quality troubleshooting to quota questions and paperwork, questions about policies and regulation, and anything else related to DFO and how it applies to your farm. Our 13 FSRs have seen and heard a lot. This column was created to use their collective expertise to share answers to some of the most common questions received.

DAIRY FARMER OF ONTARIO’S Field Services Representatives are vitally important to the organization’s ability to support dairy producers in Ontario through extension work, as well as ensuring the production of high-quality milk through the administration of the Raw Milk Quality Program.

FSRs have undergone extensive milk quality training over the past several years to stay current with the rapidly evolving dairy industry and to help troubleshoot milk quality issues (Bactoscan/Somatic Cell Count/Abnormal Freezing Point) at the farm level. As part of this troubleshooting, FSRs review historical quality data of the farm before completing a Quality Investigation Report on the farm to help identify key areas of concern. In 2024, 13 FSRs completed over 420 farm milk quality investigations.

In addition to investigations, a major focus has been collaborating with robotic milking equipment dealers, where FSRs have gained understanding of the technology, learned to identify and troubleshoot the most common milk quality issues, and built strong working relationships with industry partners. These sessions have not only enhanced technical knowledge, but have also strengthened communication and understanding between producers, equipment dealers and FSRs.

Through this ongoing training, FSRs continue to build their expertise as trusted milk quality professionals, supporting producers in maintaining high standards of milk quality across Ontario.

In addition, FSRs have benefited from continuous knowledge transfer from the veterinary community, learning about common and emerging diseases,

bacteria and pathogens found on Ontario dairy farms. These sessions have equipped FSRs with the knowledge to help producers implement targeted action plans to address on-farm issues that may arise.

The Field Services team is fortunate to have many long-standing members whose extensive experience and deep understanding of milk quality and on-farm practices continue to strengthen the group. Their knowledge and wisdom are invaluable assets, and the team places strong emphasis on mentorship and knowledge transfer to newer staff. Joint farm visits are routinely conducted to share expertise, align approaches and promote consistency across the province.

As a reminder, your FSR remains your first point of contact for any on-farm questions or concerns. They are available to assist with milk quality troubleshooting and general inquiries related to DFO policies and programs.

Through this ongoing training, FSRs continue to build their expertise as trusted milk quality professionals, supporting producers in maintaining high standards of milk quality across Ontario.

Make the switch to BlueStride.

A seamless transition to healthier hooves and safer barns

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Importance of the DFO Quality Assurance Committee in policy development

By Jeff Hyndman, Executive Director, Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance, Dairy Farmers of Ontario

HISTORICALLY, THE DAIRY FARMERS OF ONTARIO (DFO) BOARD HAS ESTABLISHED STANDING COMMITTEES, subcommittees and ad-hoc committees that advise, recommend or carry out tasks on behalf of the Board. One of these standing committees is the DFO Quality Assurance (QA) Committee.

The QA Committee has gone by many names over the 60-year history of DFO, which included the Quality Committee and the Raw Milk Quality Committee. Today, the mandate of the DFO Quality Assurance Committee is:

• To provide the tools to produce the highest quality milk for consumers.

• To monitor and make recommendations for the improvement of the quality and safety of the raw milk supply and sustainability of milk production practices in Ontario.

• To review the quality penalty programs as needed.

• To review and investigate any other matters relating to milk quality and safety.

DFO is unique as a marketing board that is accountable to the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission, which delegates authority to all marketing boards, and also has the additional delegated authority for administering the raw milk quality (RMQ) program under the authority of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agri-Business (OMAFA). These delegated authorities from the government make the function of the QA Committee essential for DFO.

While the DFO Board's primary function is to make decisions on policy issues after studying pertinent information and engaging in thoughtful discussions on policy options, many of these discussions are first referred to the Committee level. As a result, the Board relies on the Committee's recommendations to make informed and reasonable policy decisions.

The initial phase of discussions often involves an information-gathering process where Committee members work together with supporting team members to determine what information is needed. This process involves identifying the key issues, gathering relevant data and analyzing the potential impact of the proposed policy. Whether it involves a new program, a pilot study or an examination of an existing program or initiative, the needs of the Committee can vary from topic to topic. Once the information is available, committee members review it and make recommendations to the Board.

While the outlined process is oversimplified, the QA committee ultimately examines topics from various perspectives to recommend a fair and reasonable policy to the Board. The Board also has historically used the QA committee process along with its existing channels to engage with Dairy Producer Committees, through Policy Conferences and through county Annual General Meetings, to gain further perspectives to ensure that the policy has considered a variety of perspectives before the policy is brought back before the Board as a recommendation from the QA Committee.

By utilizing the QA Committee as a key component of policy development, DFO ensures that decision-making is informed, allowing for clear recommendations to be provided back to the Board.

While the DFO Board's primary function is to make decisions on policy issues after studying pertinent information and engaging in thoughtful discussions on policy options, many of these discussions are first referred to the Committee level. As a result, the Board relies on the Committee's recommendations to make informed and reasonable policy decisions.

KEXXTONE ® TURNS 30 * :

Three Decades of Supporting Herd Health

Brought to

you

by Elanco

For 30 years*, Kexxtone® has been part of the toolkit for Canadian dairy producers as they manage the challenges of the transition period, a time when ketosis can impact cow health, milk production, and overall farm performance. As we recognize Kexxtone’s 30th anniversary, we’re sharing the experiences of Canadian dairy farmers who have incorporated it into their herd management routines.

Smoother Transitions, Greater Confidence:

Derrick Martin, Earlen Farms

Transition periods present ongoing challenges for both cows and their caretakers. For Derrick Martin, the move to a freestall barn brought an increase in ketosis cases, leading him to try Kexxtone as an additional management tool.

“Since we started using Kexxtone, we’ve observed fewer ketosis cases and some improvements in fresh cow health,” Derrick says. “Our cows seem to adjust better to the milk cow ration.” While Derrick notes the costly investment in Kexxtone, he finds value in having another option for managing transition cows: “It offers some peace of

mind during this high-risk period. As with any solution, it’s important to evaluate the return for your own herd.” His suggestion to other producers: “Talk to your veterinarian. If its right for your herd, consider giving it a try, but measure the results on your farm.”

Managing Ketosis, Streamlining Labour:

Benoit, Jean-Philippe & Nicolas Turmel, Les Fermes Turmel Inc.

At Les Fermes Turmel Inc., ketosis was a recurring issue for the Turmel family. Initially, they reserved Kexxtone for cows considered at higher risk, mindful of cost and the need to target interventions. Over time, and in consultation with their

advisors, they expanded its use to all transition cows.

“We noticed changes in our herd,” they report. “The number of ketosis cases decreased, and we’ve been able to spend less time on treatments in early lactation.” While the Turmel’s appreciate these benefits, they also emphasize the importance of working closely with their veterinarian to determine the most appropriate protocols for their operation.

Celebrating 30 Years of Real Results

For three decades, Kexxtone has played a role in how Canadian dairy producers manage the risks of ketosis during the transition period. As these farmers’ experiences show, results can vary from herd to herd, and it’s important to evaluate any management approach before putting it in place.

*Monensin capsules first registered in Canada in 1994, and indication for ketosis prevention added in 1997 specifically.

Interested in learning more about Kexxtone and how it may fit within your herd management strategy? Speak with your veterinarian or nutritionist.

The label contains complete use information, including cautions and warnings. Always read, understand and follow the label and use directions. kexxtone.ca

Kexxtone, Elanco

DFO selects 2025 Entrance Scholarship recipients

By Robert Matson, Production Research Manager, Dairy Farmers of Ontario

DAIRY FARMERS OF ONTARIO

(DFO) is proud to continue its tradition of supporting youth committed to the dairy industry through the annual DFO Entrance Scholarship program. The high quality of applications received again this year demonstrates a bright outlook for Ontario dairy. Each scholarship winner will receive $5,000 to support their educational pursuits in a firstyear diploma or degree program with a tie to agriculture. DFO wishes all the applicants continued success in their first year of post-secondary studies and looks forward to seeing what the future holds for these young minds.

The six winners share what the award means to them.

“I hope to gain hands-on practical experience on the student-managed farm at Lakeland College. I am particularly interested in the dairy feed program which will enhance my in-class learning to aid in my end goal of becoming a dairy nutritionist. This scholarship is beneficial because it will allow me to take the extra courses recommended by the college. These courses will complement the in-class learning and will add to the practical side of my education in preparation of working in the dairy industry.”

Addison Dwyre, Leeds

Lakeland College, Animal Science Technology: Dairy Science Major

“Through my post-secondary education, I hope to gain insight into how the basis of our food system works. Growing up and learning about dairy and agriculture makes it an honour to receive this scholarship. This scholarship will let me focus on my in-class and experiential learning by easing the financial burden of university cost.”

Henry Jones, Simcoe University of Guelph, Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

“Through this schooling, I hope to build on the knowledge I’ve gained growing up on a farm and continue strengthening my understanding of agriculture to become a confident and capable farmer. My goal is to apply what I learn to provide high-quality dairy products while ensuring excellent care for my animals. The support of this scholarship will bring me financial relief, allowing me to fully immerse myself in gaining knowledge and skills so that I can excel in my future.”

Julia Kroondijk, Brant University of Guelph - Ridgetown Campus, Associate Diploma in Agriculture

“With this diploma, I hope to become a Certified Crop Adviser and a Sales Agronomist. This scholarship will give me a leg up, helping me with my school costs and future expenses. I am honoured to be chosen by the industry I grew up in and hope to work with closely in the future.”

Hailey Krul, Wellington University of Guelph - Ridgetown Campus, Associate Diploma in Agriculture

“I plan to use my extensive amount of knowledge learned about the agricultural community and apply this knowledge not only to better my personal skills, but also to improve the agricultural sector as a whole. This scholarship represents my passion for the dairy industry and the incredible opportunity to continue my studies in an industry packed with potential. Thank you so much to everyone at Dairy Farmers of Ontario for making this scholarship available to all youth dedicated to the dairy industry.”

Brooke Sleegers, Middlesex University of Guelph, Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

“As I embark on my undergraduate journey at Carleton University in the Mechanical Engineering program, I aim to acquire comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge in the engineering discipline. This experience will enhance my problem-solving abilities and capacity to address any complex obstacles in the future. I'm deeply grateful for this scholarship.”

Marten Vander Wielen, Glengarry Carleton University, Mechanical Engineering with Co-op

Superior Science. Smart Solutions.

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Learn more about whole herd protection with Endovac-Dairy at EndovacAnimalHealth.ca.

University of Guelph honours Dairy Farmers of Ontario with 2025 Award of Excellence

THE COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AT THE UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH has awarded the 2025 Award of Excellence to Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO), recognizing DFO’s outstanding contributions to the community, engineering education and the agricultural sector. DFO is now featured alongside other notable award winners on a glass panel in the Think Tank of the Thornbrough Building.

DFO’s dedication to rigorous raw milk quality and food safety standards has relied on a strong collaboration with the University of Guelph, focused on research, dairy innovation and advancing excellence in education and Canadian agriculture. Together, we are working to advance science, strengthen public trust and build a more resilient and sustainable food system. Equally vital, we are inspiring and equipping the next generation of engineers, scientists and leaders in agriculture.

On November 6th, Vicky Morrison, DFO Board Member, Region 9 and Chair of the DFO Research Committee, attended the celebration, along with DFO staff, and accepted the award on behalf of Ontario’s dairy producers and the organization. In her remarks, Vicky highlighted DFO’s leadership and excellence in the production and marketing of milk in Ontario, its partnership with the University of Guelph and their shared passion for growing Canada’s world class agri-food sector.

Saves Bedding

Improves Udder Health Keeps Bed Level

The Agri-Grid Sand Saver 2.0’s exclusive grid design empowers your herd and operation. Give them the healthy, comfortable resting space they deserve.

Photo credit: University of Guelph, College of Engineering

YOUR INVESTMENT

OUR COMMITMENT

Through your support, you will strengthen our ability to:

• Sustain services, leadership, and presence with government and key decision makers.

• Advocate on issues like emergency preparedness, land use and veterinary access with elected officials.

• Support programs like Ontario Corn Fed Beef and the Ontario Beef Market Development Program.

Effective November 1, 2025, the check-off collected in Ontario on the sale of beef cattle* will increase from $5.50 to $7.00 per head. Of this total, the national portion will increase to $2.50 per head, while the provincial portion will remain at $4.50 per head. . Visit www.ontariobeef.com

• Boost national investment in research, promotion and building consumer trust.

• Align the Ontario national check-off rate with the rest of Canada to support a stronger National Beef Strategy.

• Keep beef on the table by promoting its health, safety, and quality.

* Breeding stock, cull dairy cows and beef calves are included.

Stronger roots: Why young farmers need community now more than ever

Amid rising pressures, shrinking rural networks and mental health challenges, building strong relationships and community connections can help young farmers thrive both on and off the farm

By Jeanine Moyer

FARMING HAS ALWAYS BEEN ROOTED IN CONNECTION – to the land and animals, to family and to surrounding community. For today’s young farmers, those connections are more important than ever.

No matter your age or stage of your career, farming can be isolating and challenging, with rising costs, fluctuating markets and rapidly changing technologies reshaping the landscape. For young farmers today, many of those difficulties are becoming compounded by farm transitions, declining rural populations, fewer rural networks and community groups, and a declining number of farming peers.

Building strong community networks – through family, neighbours, mentorship and peer support – can make the difference between surviving and thriving. These relationships not only provide practical resources and shared knowledge but also foster resilience, innovation, mental health and wellbeing, and a sense of belonging in an industry that depends on collaboration as much as hard work.

Bonnie Taylor, a registered social worker and psychotherapist based in Wilmot Township, Ont. explains that fostering strong connections among young farmers is more important than ever, particularly as mental health challenges are on the rise and farm and rural communities continue to lose members to suicide. For more than 25 years, Taylor has worked to provide counselling and mental health support to individuals, families and groups in urban and rural areas and says she’s encouraged to see mental health becoming a more common topic in agriculture, especially among younger farmers. “But there’s still a stigma that keeps many from reaching out for help, and not everyone knows how to address the issue or feels comfortable doing so,” she says.

Connection matters

According to Taylor, farmers today are facing new barriers to staying connected. On top of existing challenges, long hours in the barn and fields often leave farmers exhausted, with little time or energy for social connections. With fewer farms today, peer networks have become smaller and generation gaps within the industry can make it even harder for young farmers to find meaningful connection.

Building strong community networks – through family, neighbours, mentorship and peer support –can make the difference between surviving and thriving.

Bonnie Taylor at the 2023 Breakfast on the Farm, hosted by Farm & Food Care Ontario at Hallahan Dairy Farm in Huron County.

New innovations on the farm are also helping farmers find more time for connecting, especially in the dairy industry where robotic technologies are changing workloads and work schedules.

“The challenges young farmers face can easily create a sense of isolation,” says Taylor, explaining that the stresses of running a farm are so unique that many people outside of agriculture, or even outside specific sectors like dairy, don’t fully understand them, which can make forming connections more difficult.

The good news is that building connections and a sense of community isn’t limited by geography anymore. Today, new technologies and online platforms provide many ways for farmers to stay in touch and support one another. Taylor notes that, while nothing can top physical and in-person connections, the ability to ask questions, seek out advice or offer support through social media, chat groups and text messaging can go a long way too.

Taylor believes that young farmers are even redefining what communities and support networks look like today. “Digital tools are opening new connections to support each other, learn from others, and share industry and personal experiences,” she says, citing chat forums and YouTube videos as specific examples where young farmers can engage.

New innovations on the farm are also helping farmers find more time for connecting, especially in the dairy industry where robotic technologies are changing workloads and work schedules. While the added flexibility can give farmers more time to connect with friends and family, volunteer or attend their children’s activities, any new system on the farm comes with a learning curve. “And without others around to provide support or share knowledge, the process of integrating new innovations can feel isolating too,” warns Taylor.

Despite the changing dynamics of rural Ontario, young farmers still have plenty of opportunities to build connections within their own communities, reminds Taylor. “Getting involved locally is the best way to connect,” she notes, explaining that agricultural societies, industry organizations, community groups and sports organizations can be a place for young farmers to start. “And if you don’t find a group that interests you, consider building connections by starting one yourself.”

Strength in community

“Without strong connections, our health can suffer, especially for young farmers who may feel isolated due to limited opportunities, growing pressures and fewer peers,” says Taylor who suggests that prioritizing mental health and connecting can be as simple as starting a conversation. She also recommends regular check-ins with fellow farmers and friends as a way to stay connected and ensure that others are feeling supported and staying healthy, and says that even a few minutes of mindfulness, connection or reflection each day can boost resilience and wellbeing.

“Young farmers bring energy, innovation and enthusiasm to the farm, their communities and the industry,” says Taylor. “But they can’t do it alone, which is why building connections and support networks is such a crucial part of agriculture, mental health and overall wellbeing.”

Mental wellness tips for young dairy farmers

Taylor suggests dairy farmers follow these mental wellness tips and prioritize building community connections to stay healthy and build resilience.

Connect: Reach out to peers, mentors, family or local farm groups – don’t go it alone.

Check in daily: Take a moment to notice your mood and stress. A short journal or reflection can help.

Move and breathe: Stretch, walk or try simple breathing exercises to ease tension.

Set boundaries: Short breaks and regular sleep protect your energy and focus.

Plan and prioritize: Break tasks into small steps and celebrate small wins.

Seek support: Talk to a counsellor familiar with farming stress or call farmer support lines: The National Farmer Crisis Line (1-866-FARMS01) or Agriculture Wellness Ontario (1-866-267-6255).

Scott and Erin Hendrikx are proving that sibling teamwork and the next generation of leadership can keep a family farm thriving through innovation, resilience and shared goals

YOUNG STRONG

By Jeanine Moyer

THE HENDRIKX FAMILY OF PARKHILL, ONT. have built more than a family dairy farm – they’ve built a legacy of teamwork and trust. Through every high and low, they’ve stood by one another, keeping milk quality, animal health and family ties at the heart of everything they do.

As third-generation farmers, brother and sister duo, Scott and Erin Hendrikx, are proudly carrying on the family tradition at Dalgetta Farms Inc., embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with being part of the next generation in agriculture.

Though Scott and Erin once imagined careers beyond the farm, their time away at university made it clear that dairy farming was more than a family tradition, it was their calling. Today, 31-year-old Scott and 35-year-old Erin work alongside their parents, Jerry and Kathy, as well as Erin’s husband, Jeff Thiel. Together, they milk 90 Holsteins in two A5 Lely robots, crop 1,500 acres and raise broiler chickens.

Family first

“There’s a unique sense of pride that comes from working together as a family toward common goals,” says Erin. “There’s also a transfer of generational knowledge that comes from a family farm. The knowledge sharing also goes both ways, because as young farmers, we learn from our parents, but we also teach them about new technologies and innovations that we all benefit from.”

Both Scott and Erin have been working on the farm full-time for over a decade. During that time, they’ve weathered life’s ups and downs – marriages, children, farm succession, a new barn build, the move from parlour to robotic milking and even personal tragedies – always leaning on one another for strength.

“We’re stronger together as a sibling and family team and have each other’s backs, no matter what,” says Scott.

Teamwork and tenacity

The Hendrikx siblings have shown that teamwork is the foundation of their resilience and success – both on the farm and in life.

When Erin was in a serious car accident in 2014, the family rallied to support her while balancing the farmwork. The accident left her with a brain injury, leading to a long and challenging recovery

farmers STRONG bond

As third-generation farmers, brother and sister duo, Scott and Erin Hendrikx, are proudly carrying on the family tradition at Dalgetta Farms Inc., embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with being part of the next generation in agriculture.

that she continues to work through with the help of her family. Like many young farmers, starting a family and raising young children quickly became another challenge Scott and Erin had to navigate. Together, they sat down with their family to determine how to find a new approach to their workload and find a balance between work and home. That was the motivation Dalgetta Farms needed to invest in building a new barn and installing milking robots in 2021. Today, the brother and sister team both enjoy bringing their young children to the barn while they’re working, providing a unique extended family experience and the opportunity to teach them valuable life skills. Erin says she also appreciates the opportunity to provide a good example for her daughter, noting that, while there are more women in agriculture today, it’s still important for young women to have positive role models in the industry.

Individual roles and responsibilities on the farm have evolved over the years, as Scott, Erin and Jeff have become more involved. New equipment and automated systems have also required the younger farming generation to

take the lead in researching and implementing new innovations on the farm. The Hendrikx family all share the workload equally, but each have their own strengths and areas of interest that they focus on. Erin takes the lead on herd breeding decisions while Scott concentrates on crop management and herd nutrition. “Working as a team, we’re able to help each other on the farm, along with balancing work with our home lives too,” says Scott.

Next-gen innovation

The adoption and integration of new technologies and systems have been a common theme for Scott and Erin since they came back to the farm. A lot has changed on the farm in recent years, including breeding beef-ondairy, the transition to a robotic milking system and incorporating precision equipment into their field work.

“We’re more efficient and productive than ever before,” says Scott, noting that not only is he seeing a difference in crop yields, but also in herd genetics and milk production and quality, and all by working fewer hours in the barn and in the field. “Whenever the introduction of new innovations or equipment makes sense for the farm, we see it as an opportunity to learn and try new ways of doing things.”

Their drive for innovation is paying off. In 2024, Dalgetta Farms was among the top one per cent of Canada’s best managed herds, ranking 20th in the country. Scott believes their achievements and recognition stem from the family’s dedication to working toward the same goals, along with continuous on-farm improvements and upgrades.

Looking ahead, the Hendrikx family would like to maintain their rank among the top best managed herds in Canada. They are also focused on the profitability and sustainability of their farm. Upgrading their calf barn is the most immediate project, and they are currently exploring robotic feeding systems to further streamline their workload and enhance the health and wellbeing of their herd from an early age.

While Scott and Erin spend most of their quality time together on the farm, they are both active in their local community too. Scott enjoys playing hockey and spending time with his young family. Erin and Jeff both volunteer for the Zurich and Parkhill Agricultural Societies and show horses. During the holidays you can find the couple and their horses participating in local Christmas parades. Both Scott and Erin are members of their local dairy groups and actively keep tabs on developments in the Canadian dairy industry.

“We’re proud to produce high-quality milk for Canadian consumers, and it’s important that we ensure dairy continues to be a trusted and vital part of Canada’s food system,” says Erin.

We’re more

efficient

and productive than

ever

before. Whenever

the introduction of new innovations

or

equipment

makes sense for the farm, we see it as an opportunity to learn and try new ways of doing things.

– Scott Hendrikx

The siblings recognize the commitment it takes to manage a dairy farm while working with family every day. Together, they are invested in the sustainability of their farm and preserving such a valued and unique livelihood for their children.

“It takes a tremendous amount of dedication to keep a family dairy farm running these days, and we all understand and appreciate what that really means,” says Scott.

Looking ahead, the Hendrikx family would like to maintain their rank among the top best managed herds in Canada. They are also focused on the profitability and sustainability of their farm.

Erin and Jeff, and their daughter, Donna are busy on their farm while their two sons, George and Charles are at school.

Breaking barriers: Women in Canadian agriculture

By Bethany Lipka, Business Intelligence Analyst, and Isaac Kwarteng, Senior Economist, Farm Credit Canada (FCC)

© 2025 Farm Credit Canada. Used with permission. Additional information is available online at www.fcc-fac.ca/en/knowledge/women-in-canadian-agriculture. For inquiries about this content or to request permission for use, please contact FCC at mediarelations@fcc-fac.ca.

WOMEN PLAY A CRITICAL ROLE IN CANADIAN AGRICULTURE

but also face significant participation barriers. Lack of resources and recognition lead to under-representation among farm operators and leadership roles within agriculture. The growing skills gap across the sector makes it imperative to grow gender equity and lift women’s participation in all aspects of farming.

We estimate that achieving revenue equity – with female farm operators earning on average revenues in line with male farm operators – would add an additional $5 billion to agriculture's GDP contribution. Achieving gender parity in the number of farm operators would magnify these economic benefits. Recognizing existing contributions of women could attract more women to the industry, which elevates the status of women’s contributions equal to men’s. We estimate that almost 88,000 additional female farm operators will need to be counted to achieve gender parity by 2026 – 75 per cent of which are already farming but unrecognized as operators, and 25 per cent of which will need to be new entrants.

The status of women in agriculture today

In the 30-year period spanning 1991 to 2021, the percentage of female farm operators in Canada increased from 25.7 per cent to 30.4 per cent (Figure 1). This upward trend is expected to continue, with the proportion of female farm operators expected to reach 31.1 per cent by 2026. While encouraging, it’s important to note that this trend is largely explained by men leaving the industry not by more women joining. Farm consolidations and an aging farm population have reduced the total number of farm operators across Canada over time, with the number of men falling faster than the number of women. So, while the proportion of women farmers has been steadily on the rise,

the actual number of women in farming has not been growing by much. In fact, between 2016 and 2021, the number of female farm operators grew for the first time since 1991, but only by 2.5 per cent – translating to less than 2,000 additional farm operators. And women are also still less likely than men to be the sole decision-maker on the farm.

Female farm operators face very different economic circumstances than male farm operators. Female operators tend to have smaller operations, and lower farm incomes. The median farm operating revenue bracket is the same for both men and women at $50,000 – $99,999 (Figure 2). But approximately 58.6 per cent of female farm operators work on farms that

Figure 2: Total farm operating revenues for women and men – Canada, 2021 Sources: Statistics Canada, FCC calculations.

Figure 3: Types of farms operated by women and men – Canada, 2021 Sources: Statistics Canada, FCC calculations.

Figure 1: Gender breakdown of farm operators in Canada – women and men, 1991-2026f1 1f=forecasted. Sources: Statistics Canada, FCC calculations.

reported less than $100,000 in revenues, compared to 51.1 per cent of male farm operators, based on the most recent census data from 2021. Conversely, only 17.9 per cent of female farm operators were employed on farms with revenues of $500,000 or more, compared to 21.9 per cent of their male counterparts. Women have gained some ground in recent years in high value markets for products like beef, poultry and eggs. Men continue to dominate the grains and oilseeds market (Figure 3).

In their own words: Barriers faced by Canadian women in agriculture

In the fall of 2024, Farm Credit Canada (FCC) interviewed women working in Canada’s agriculture sector to learn about their experiences. Overall, these producers felt that things are slowly changing for the better. Yet, women still face barriers to full participation in farming.

1. Industry gender norms

The public still expects farmers to be male. Stereotypically, in many farm families, the man is labelled as the “farmer”, while the woman is labelled a “farm wife”. Girls growing up in farm families may not feel encouraged from participating in the more operational aspects of farming. This early socialization can shape how women perceive their roles on the farm, and their confidence in engaging in all aspects of farming as adults. Women also tend to be expected to take on more household and childrearing responsibilities and often provide economic stability for their families through off-farm employment, making it more difficult to engage in production work.

2. Devaluation of women’s knowledge, skills and contributions

Women reported that they often feel like they must prove that they are as knowledgeable, skilled and capable as their male counterparts, and often feel judged to be less competent because of their gender. And that non-production roles dominated by women – like accountant or finance manager – are often deemed not as important as operational roles that tend to be male dominated.

3. Resource accessibility

Men are more likely to inherit the farm over women, as tradition dictates that these resources be passed from fathers to sons. Women are often excluded from succession planning, and in large part are still expected to marry in to farm families if they want to participate in farming.

4. Physical barriers

Many aspects of farming were not designed with women in mind. For example, most farm equipment has been tailored to the male physique, and these design limitations can make it more difficult for women to engage in the physical side of farming.

5. Lack of representation

Many women shared that their views on their own potential were shaped by what they saw represented as they grew up – which typically was men as decision-makers on the farm, and women in supportive roles. A lack of representation of female leadership in agriculture can make it difficult for younger women to feel confident that they can take on leadership roles.

In this era of digital agriculture and datadriven decision-making, there is a growing need for highly skilled farm labour.

6. Lack of networks and support

Women in farming are more isolated than their male counterparts, and have less access to networking, mentorship and support. Most executive and board positions within agriculture continue to be held by men. Women generally have less access to a network of like-minded peers sharing similar struggles who they can lean on for support and advice, and often have the experience of being the only woman in the room. This can be both challenging and intimidating. Women also face barriers to attending inperson networking events, as they are often juggling childcare and off-farm work.

Women are well-positioned to be future leaders in Canada’s food system

In this era of digital agriculture and data-driven decision-making, there is a growing need for highly skilled farm labour. Reflecting this need, there has been an overall upward trend in educational attainment in the agriculture labour force in recent years – with a declining number of workers having no formal qualifications, and an increasing number of workers with college and university degrees. This trend is even more pronounced for women, who are more likely to be highly educated than their male counterparts. In 2021, nearly one-quarter (23.5 per cent) of female farm operators possessed at least a bachelor's degree, compared to only 14.5 per cent of male farm operators (Figure 4). And the proportion of female farm operators without any formal education was only 9.3 per cent, notably lower than the 18.2 per cent observed among male farm operators. The current gap in educational attainment between female and male farm operators is greatest for operators aged 30-39; within this age cohort, 36 per cent of women have a university education, compared to only 17 per cent of men.

A high level of educational attainment makes it easier for women to take advantage of new tools and technologies of farming as they emerge. Many of these innovations are making it easier to overcome some of the physical and social barriers that women in agriculture have faced in the past. A growing number of female farm operators are adopting new production technologies – things like automatic guidance steering and GIS (geospatial) - making it easier for women to achieve work-life balance. Women who are highly educated are also well-positioned to be thought-leaders and champions of the agriculture industry, playing a leadership role beyond the farm level.

Women working in agriculture also continue to demonstrate a strong entrepreneurial spirit, leveraging their skills and expertise to enhance the value of what they produce. Women have been driving the emerging trend of direct-to-consumer sales of farm goods, with farms run exclusively or jointly by female operators being much more likely to adopt this marketing strategy. And there are a growing number of women working on farms producing organic goods, and using sustainable energy sources and technologies. Women are also carving out space for themselves in growing niche markets, like sheep and goat production.

Achieving gender equity in Canadian agriculture: Some possible steps forward

There is a lot of work that needs to be done to achieve gender equity in Canadian agriculture. Currently we fall behind wholesale and retail, finance,

education, health care and several other industries in terms of women’s participation. Women in agriculture today are highly educated and driven, with strong business acumen. They are well-equipped to foster innovation and accelerate new methods, tools and technologies on the farm. At a time when productivity growth in Canadian agriculture is stagnating, leveraging their skills and entrepreneurial spirit will reap significant economic benefits.

Here are some potential strategies to consider:

• Increase the visibility of women in agriculture. Recognizing the important work that women are already doing on farms and in boardrooms across Canada is critical.

• Enhance mentorship and networking opportunities. This will help to reduce isolation and build community for women navigating the agriculture and food space. Programs like AgriMentor, that pair new and established women farmers with experienced mentors, and events like Advancing Women Conferences, can foster useful connections for women, helping to address time and cost barriers women often face when engaging in networking. Virtual initiatives can also help to make networking more accessible. The National Women in Agriculture and AgriFood Network Project is one example of a growing network that connects women in farming through both in-person and virtual initiatives.

• Ensure that women have equal opportunity to take on leadership roles. This requires not only reducing gender bias in promotion and hiring, but also ensuring women are supported in stepping into leadership roles when the opportunity arises, through access to things like flexible work arrangements and childcare accommodations.

• Improve access to resources. Women have historically been excluded from succession planning and equal access to land and capital. Programs that support women in accessing the resources they need to start their farm businesses are essential moving forward. FCC’s Women Entrepreneur Program is one example of this. A broader cultural shift toward including women in succession planning is also needed to break this inter-generational cycle of exclusion. We are slowly seeing progress in this area, with more women being involved in farm transition planning.

Embracing the strengths and potential of women in agriculture can unlock $5 billion in economic benefits for the agriculture sector. Achieving gender equity can drive innovation, improve productivity and foster sustainability, leading to a more resilient and prosperous agricultural industry. Together, we can cultivate a future where everyone can contribute and thrive, creating a dynamic and inclusive farming community that benefits all.

Figure 4: Educational attainment of farm operators in Canada – women and men, Sources: Statistics Canada, FCC calculations.

Creating memorable moments to connect with the next generation of dairy fans

REACHING YOUNGER AUDIENCES, SUCH AS GEN Z’S, requires experiences that feel authentic, shareable and rooted in real moments. In 2025, Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) implemented campaigns that featured nostalgia, in-person activations with social-first content and sustained community investment, producing meaningful shifts in perception, behaviour and reach among younger audiences.

Live Nation music partnerships

To meet young consumers in culturally relevant spaces, MilkUP partnered with Live Nation to activate at 25 Gen Z-centric shows at Budweiser Stage. The activation featured a high-energy photobooth with playful backdrops, milk sampling and giveaways such as cow-print sunglasses, hair clips and hats. The in-person momentum was extended online through a social-forward content series that invited concert attendees to play a dairy-themed true-or-false game, turning in-person moments into engaging social content. This strategic partnership placed Ontario dairy into the heart of social experiences Gen Z values.

Camp MilkUP

Building on the momentum of the Cownty Fair campaign, Camp MilkUP tapped into the nostalgia of dairy treats and summer camp. The pop-up activation took place in Toronto in the spring and Ottawa in the summer for a total of 18 days, and offered a curated program of exclusive dairy treats made by local vendors, milk-themed merchandise, interactive activities and plentiful photo moments. More than 100,000 dairy treats were consumed across the two events, reinforcing milk as a memorable and delicious part of Gen Z’s lifestyle. The campaign drew 17,800 Gen Z attendees and delivered 42 million impressions, while also generating thousands of new social followers.

Most importantly, Camp MilkUP shifted attitudes and intentions: 62 per cent of visitors reported a more positive view of milk and 68 per cent said they were more likely to drink milk after attending. These outcomes are noteworthy, especially considering the gradual shift in beverage preferences among Gen Z after age 13 as they begin exploring a wider range of beverage choices.

Grassroots investments through sports

Supporting community sports programs enriches the lives of children and youth by providing safe, healthy spaces to play, learn and grow. Participation in sport improves mental and physical health and fosters leadership, teamwork and sportsmanship.

To help Ontario youth thrive, DFO and local Dairy Producer Committees (DPCs) invest in programs that promote active lifestyles and community leadership. Since 2020, DFO has donated more than $482,000 to four bursary programs in partnership with Ontario Soccer (OS), the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA), the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) and the Ontario Basketball Association (OBA); bursaries range from $2,500 to $6,000.

DFO’s recent season-long partnerships expanded this commitment with the Professional Women's Hockey League’s (PWHL) Toronto Sceptres and Ottawa Charge, featuring grassroots initiatives to help create more opportunities for women and girls in sports, promote nutrition and encourage healthy lifestyles. The partnerships included brand awareness through in-arena signage, digitally enhanced dasherboards and engaged with fans through game night sponsorships.

This summer, DFO in partnership with the Toronto Raptors hosted A Summer to Shine, a six-week summer program of basketball at five community sites, providing over 300 youth weekly access to coaching and play.

At the local level, DPCs regularly sponsor leagues and tournaments, reinforcing ties between dairy and community while helping the next generation build skills, confidence and a habit of healthy, active living.

Targeting younger audiences means more than pushing messages; it means creating memorable experiences, inserting the brand into cultural moments and investing in the communities where young people live and play to reinforce milk as a relevant, enjoyable and trusted part of their lives.

Since 2020, DFO has donated more than $482,000 to four bursary programs in partnership with Ontario Soccer (OS), the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA), the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) and the Ontario Basketball Association (OBA); bursaries range from $2,500 to $6,000.

Quota increase and changes in Solids-NonFat (SNF) payment policy

To maintain the current P5 production of butterfat (BF) for 2026, the P5 Boards have approved a 1 per cent saleable quota increase on December 1, 2025.

In addition, the P5 Boards have approved to change the SNF/BF payment policy tier 2 protein to be paid at the monthly 4a price plus $3.00 per kg, effective January 1, 2026.

A shift in consumer preference to dairy products high in protein (ex. yogurt) since the beginning of 2025, has increased the demand for protein from the market at a faster rate than usual. This shift in demand occurred as there continues to be a decrease of the farm production ratio, which has resulted in shifts in the protein available to serve all markets, and a better return for surplus SNF. As part of the continuous assessment of the payment policy parameters, the conclusion was reached that to meet the recent market demand for increased protein, additional income will be paid on protein in tier 2. The additional $3.00/kg of protein in tier 2 will increase the value of protein produced up to the no-pay ratio of 2.20 and result in a slight decrease in tier 1 protein price. Further information will be provided on the impact for producers.

The faster than anticipated decrease of the farm production ratio generating less surplus, the growth in profitable markets that utilize SNF and a better global revenue for the decreasing SNF surplus lead the P5 Boards to implement the above policy change.

The objectives of the component payment policy remain to better reflect market revenue and the components that best contribute to yield, to limit the growth of surplus SNF and to maintain the

quality of dairy components, while aiming to ensure a greater equity between producers.

The P5 Quota Committee will continue to evaluate the payment policy and update its parameters, as necessary, to ensure objectives continue to be met.

Total requirements in August saw growth compared to August last year with a 2.2 per cent increase. On a 12-month basis, growth continues to be strong at 3.4 per cent. The same trend was seen in quota requirements for August.

P5 had been trending below forecast production and additional incentives days were issued to increase production through the fall. The incentive day fill-rate in September was 43.6 per cent in P5 and 50.9 per cent in Ontario. The strong fill rate on incentives in September put production well over the forecast for September.

In September 2025, butter stocks reached 37,429 tonnes, down from August by 2,543 tonnes but continue to have very strong numbers for this year. Butter stock forecast is halfway between the optimistic and average scenarios at this time, and levels continue to be at the highest seen in the last five years.

Cheese stock levels for the month of September 2025 were at 105,050 tonnes, down 4,331 tonnes from August but higher than the last five-year average.

For the 52 weeks ending September 27, 2025, sales for fluid milk, fluid cream, yogurt, ice cream, cheese and butter increased/ decreased by -0.1, 0.7, 6.5, 6.0, 3.8 and 4.3 per cent, respectively.

A monthly recap of markets and production trends in Canada and Ontario

CANADIAN REQUIREMENTS AND PRODUCTION

Canadian butterfat requirements in kilograms and actual butterfat production across the P10.

1,000,000 1,050,000 1,100,000 1,150,000 1,200,000 1,250,000 1,300,000 1,350,000

NATIONAL RETAIL SALES

Average increase in retail sales for dairy products sold in Ontario and the dairy product’s share of the total market sales, including at hotels, restaurants and institutions.

As of March 26, 2022

* Source: AC Nielsen & StatsCan NOTE: There is a two-month lag in the national retail sales data.

12-month production (in millions of kilograms)

12-month requirements (in millions of kilograms)

Canadian production has increased by 3.5 per cent over the previous 12 months, and requirements have increased by 4.2 per cent over the previous 12 months.

This graph shows Ontario’s SNF-BF ratio for the last 12 months.

SEPTEMBER HIGHLIGHTS

• To maintain the current P5 production of butterfat (BF) for 2026, the P5 Boards have approved a 1 per cent saleable quota increase on December 1, 2025

• In addition, the P5 Boards have approved to change the SNF/BF payment policy tier 2 protein to be paid at the monthly 4a price plus $3.00 per kg, effective January 1, 2026

• Total requirements in August saw growth compared to August last year with a 2.2 per cent increase. On a 12-month basis, growth continues to be strong at 3.4 per cent. The same trend was seen in quota requirements for August

ONTARIO UTILIZATION

Percentage of the total milk produced in Ontario that was used to produce dairy products.

Fluid Milk & Cream

Butter & Powders

Yogurt and Ice Cream Cheese

Skim

September 2025

P10 UTILIZATION BY CLASS

For September 2025 (kg of butterfat/kg of solids non-fat)

*There is a two-month lag reporting these figures.

% Solids non-fat

Class 1a1 (includes Classes 1a2, 1a3, 1c and 1d for confidentiality reasons) Fluid milk and beverages

Class 1b Fluid creams Class 2a Yogurt, yogurt beverages, kefir and lassi

Class 2b4 (includes Classes 2b1, 2b2 and 2b3 for confidentiality reasons) Fresh dairy desserts, sour cream, milkshakes and sports nutrition drinks

Class 2b5 Ice cream and frozen yogurt

Class 3a1 Specialty cheese

Class 3a2 Cheese curds and fresh cheeses

Class 3b2 (includes Class 3b1 for confidentiality reasons) Cheddar cheese and aged cheddar

Class 3c1 Feta

Class 3c2 Asiago, Gouda, Havarti, Parmesan and Swiss

Class 3c4 (includes Classes 3c3 and 3c5 for confidentiality reasons) Brick, Colby, farmer’s, jack, Monterey jack, muenster, pizza cheese, pizza mozzarella and mozzarella other than what falls within 3d

Class 3c6 Paneer

Class 3d Mozzarella used strictly on fresh pizzas by establishments registered with the Canadian Dairy Commission

Class 4a Butter and powders

Class 4d (includes Classes 4b1, 4b2, 4c and 4m for confidentiality reasons) Concentrated milk for retail, losses and animal feed

Class 5a Cheese for further processing

Class 5b Non-cheese products for further processing

Class 5c Confectionery products

ONTARIO MONTHLY PRODUCER AVERAGE GROSS BLEND PRICE

A total 3,150 producers sold milk to DFO in September compared with 3,172 a year earlier.

ONTARIO

DEDUCTIONS,

PER HL

For September 2025

* These figures are based on Ontario’s average composition for September 2025 of 4.2657 kg butterfat, 3.2708 kg protein and 5.9465 kg other solids, rounded to the nearest cent.

P5 AND WESTERN MILK POOL BLEND PRICES *

The graph below shows the 12-month blend price for the P5 provinces and Western Milk Pool (WMP).

*There is a two-month lag reporting these figures.

U.S. CLASS PRICES

The October 2025 Class III Price, US$16.91 per hundredweight, is equivalent to C$54.04 per hectolitre. This equivalent is based on the exchange rate US $1 = C$ 1.40783 the exchange rate when the USDA announced the Class III Price.

The Class III Price is in US$ per hundredweight at 3.5 per cent butterfat. One hundredweight equals 0.44 hectolitres. Canadian Class 5a and Class 5b prices track U.S. prices set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Source: USDA

Co-ordinated by Dairy Farmers of Ontario’s communications and economics divisions. Questions? Please email questions@milk.org.

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Breaking down compost bedded packs

What you need to know

By Angie Wilson, Dairy Specialist, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) & Jessica St John, Animal Comfort & Welfare Research Professional, Lactanet

WHEN PROPERLY DESIGNED AND MANAGED, compost bedded packs (CBPs) promote cow comfort and natural behaviours, while helping reduce injuries and lameness. Like traditional deep-bedded packs, CBPs are large, open areas without stalls, where cows can rest, exercise and interact socially. These housing systems allow cows to stand up and lie down with ease and express estrus behaviour. The thick layer of bedding provides a soft, cushioned and non-abrasive surface, leading to fewer hoof and leg injuries. However, effective pack management is required to maintain cow cleanliness and reduce the risk of udder health issues.

How do CBPs differ from other housing systems?

Traditional deep-bedded packs are anaerobic packs with fresh bedding (often straw) added daily, whereas CBPs are aerobic systems that require oxygen to function properly. CBPs use fine bedding and are stirred twice daily to support the composting process. Table 1 outlines the pros and cons of CBPs compared to other housing systems.

How CBPs work: The composting process

CBPs rely on composting to manage moisture, provide a comfortable resting area for cows and produce a material that can be land-applied as solid fertilizer. Composting requires managing an environment for microorganisms requiring oxygen, moisture and a balanced carbon-tonitrogen (C:N) ratio. In CBPs, manure contributes nitrogen and moisture, while bedding provides carbon. Stirring the pack adds oxygen and mixes in fresh manure. Microbial activity generates heat, helping dry the pack. If the pack becomes too wet or compacted, oxygen levels decrease, which slows or stops the composting process.

Managing a CBP

CBPs are dynamic systems that require proactive, adaptable management:

• Aeration: Working or stirring the pack mixes in manure, adds oxygen, breaks up clumps and releases moisture. The CBP should be worked twice a day, every day and typically takes between 10 and 30 minutes each time, depending on pack size and equipment.

Improved cow comfort and expression of natural behaviour, such as lying and standing behaviour, estrus and social behaviours

Reduced leg and hoof injuries, improving lameness

Less time and labour adding bedding and cleaning bedded area compared to traditional bedded packs

Flexible housing option for varying cow sizes and breeds

Increased space requirement per animal, and sensitive to overcrowding

Increased bedding costs

Must be stirred twice daily and carefully managed to control moisture. Improperly managed packs negatively affect cow cleanliness and udder health, increasing the risk of mastitis and milk quality issues

Including a scraper system requires management of both liquid and solid manure

• Equipment: A variety of different equipment can be used if it breaks up clumps, leaves no visible manure, and works the pack at least 8 in (20.3 cm), ideally 12 in (30.5 cm) deep. Options include rototillers, field cultivators, rippers and rototillers with shanks.

• Bedding addition: Bedding feeds the composting pack and helps control moisture. Add bedding before the pack becomes wet. The frequency and amount added depend on factors including weather and seasonal conditions, ventilation, animal density, bedding type and available equipment.

• Bedding material: Dry, fine, high-carbon materials like kiln-dried hardwood sawdust work well in CBPs. Other organic materials can be used depending on characteristics, including carbon content and particle size. Smaller particles decompose faster, whereas larger particles can reduce excessive compaction.

• Clean outs: Some CBPs are cleaned out once or twice per year, whereas others are never cleaned out. The frequency of cleaning out depends on the rate and effectiveness of composting, and the producer’s preference for field application. Leaving the driest 25 per cent of the pack helps inoculate the new material. Starting or restarting a pack works best between spring and early fall, allowing time for heat generation.

Table 1. Pros and cons of compost bedded packs compared to other systems with stalls PROS

• Stocking density: The optimal cow density depends on many factors, including climate, bedding, pack management, ventilation and barn design. The minimum stocking density required for packs in Canada is 9.3 m2 (100 ft2) per cow, but at least 13.9 m2 (150 ft2) per cow is advised for new CBP builds and future herd growth. CBPs are sensitive to overcrowding, leading to wetter packs, increased bedding usage (and cost), dirty cows and an increased risk of environmental mastitis.

How do I know if my CBP is working?

Ongoing daily assessment is required. Signs of a CBP working properly include a fluffy, even surface, minimal odour and clean cows that walk easily across the pack. Indicators of a struggling CBP include clumpy material, dirty cows, shiny tractor wheels (indicating excessive moisture) and cows struggling to walk. Ideal moisture content is 40 to 60 per cent and compost temperatures should exceed 43°C. Lower temperatures are common, but if pack temperature matches ambient, composting is likely inactive. Pack samples can be submitted to a laboratory for assessment, including C:N ratio.

Other CBP considerations

• Milking hygiene: Teat preparation should be excellent to reduce the risk of udder health or milk quality issues. Consult with your veterinarian for guidance on mastitis prevention strategies and vaccination programs.

• Ventilation: CBPs release a large amount of moisture, requiring effective ventilation to remove it from the barn. Automatic systems are recommended. Choose a builder with a thorough understanding of the ventilation requirements specific to CBPs.

• Seasonal management: CBPs are challenging to manage in the cooler months due to reduced composting activity and restricted airflow.

• Bedding storage and supply: Keep bedding dry and accessible. Secure a consistent bedding supply and adequate storage. Sawdust availability can be a limitation for CBPs.

to clean out the pack. Although dry cow CBPs are not challenged by moisture to the same extent as lactating cow CBPs, space per cow should not be compromised. Instead, even greater space allowances in dry cow CBPs can help reduce stress and improve comfort and health.

Final thoughts

CBPs can offer many benefits to cow comfort, and require an adaptable, proactive management style. Proper pack aeration, managing stocking density, adding sufficient bedding and good ventilation are essential to support composting. These systems can fail quickly if not managed properly, especially regarding excess moisture. A pack that becomes too wet will slow down and stop composting. If you’re considering a CBP, talk to producers who have a CBP and visit their farms. Consult with specialists who are knowledgeable about CBPs and choose a builder that has experience with these systems.

References

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (2020). Dairy housing: compost-bedded pack barns [Fact sheet]. ISSN 1198-712X. https://www.ontario.ca/page/dairyhousing-compost-bedded-pack-barns

Lactanet (2025). Constru+. Housing for Lactating Cows - Free-stall or Bedded Pack. Section 1.1 Bedded Packs. https://lactanet.ca/en/the-constru-dairy-portal/

Bewley, J., Black, R. (2012). Compost Bedded Pack Barn Design - Features and Management Considerations. ID-206. University of Kentucky College of Agriculture - Cooperative Extension Service. https://publications.ca.uky.edu/sites/publications.ca.uky.edu/files/ ID206.pdf

• Barn design: Allow for ease of equipment access and bedding deliveries. Maximize cross ventilation.

AGRI-TRAC Milled our dair y barn floors in of 2000.22 Years later we just had AGRI-TRAC backto do them again. It lasted 22 Years! We chose AGRI-TRAC bothtimesinstead of grooving because it works and lasts. We have experience, grooving does NOT work! Thank you AGRI-TRAC.

• Moisture sources: Prevent any unnecessary water from entering the pack via unshielded water troughs, condensation from the roof and leaks from hoses.

Can CBPs be used for dry cows?

CBPs can be used for dry cows; however, there is currently no published research evaluating their use as dry cow housing. The cow comfort benefits of CBPs still apply to dry cows, and anecdotal evidence from Ontario suggests that CBPs can be a successful housing option for dry cows. Producers report positive experiences, including requiring less frequent aeration (once per day or once every two days) and less bedding material, due to drier manure. Some producers note not needing

AGRI-TRAC Milled our dair y barn floors in August of 2000.22 Years later we just had AGRI-TRAC backto do them again. It lasted 22 Years! We chose AGRI-TRAC bothtimesinstead of grooving because it works and lasts. We have experience, grooving does NOT work! Thank you AGRI-TRAC.

Mario Vriens Friendly Farms Arthur, ON

AGRI-TRAC milled our dairy barn floors in August of 2000. 22 years later we just had AGRI-TRAC back to do them again. It lasted 22 Years! We chose AGRI-TRAC both times instead of grooving because it works and lasts. Thank you AGRI-TRAC Mario Vriens, Friendly Farms, Arthur, ON AGRI-TRAC gives the cows the traction they need without being too aggressive on their

Bridging the gap between research and farming

LRIC initiatives equip early career scientists with on-farm experience and industry networks

By Lilian Schaer

Livestock Research Innovation Corporation (LRIC) is funded in part by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), a fiveyear, federal-provincial-territorial initiative. This article is provided by LRIC as part of its ongoing efforts to report on research, innovation and issues affecting the Canadian livestock industry.

THIS FALL MARKS THE START OF THE FIFTH COHORT of a unique mentorship program for early career scientists at the University of Guelph to introduce them to Ontario’s livestock industry.

“When young researchers launch their academic careers, their training has usually emphasized technical skills, data analysis and publishing papers. What it often doesn’t include, however, is a close connection to the people their work ultimately serves: livestock farmers,” says Kelly Somerville, CEO of Livestock Research Innovation Corporation (LRIC), the organization behind the program.

It was that reality that prompted LRIC to launch its Early Career Mentorship Program faculty mentorship program in 2021. A year later, it was supplemented with an innovative, industry-supported research award for graduates of the mentorship program.

The mission of both initiatives is to give new scientists a stronger understanding of agriculture, the issues farmers face and the realities of modern livestock production. The goal is simple: help researchers ask better questions, design more relevant projects and build the long-term relationships between farmers and scientists needed to deliver real solutions with real value on-farm.

A mentorship experience rooted in farming reality

Dr. Kelsey Spence, an assistant professor in the Department of Population Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC), knows firsthand how impactful this experience can be.

She joined the university faculty in 2021, in the middle of the pandemic, and learned about the mentorship program through OVC’s dean, Dr. Jeff Wichtel. Once in-person opportunities returned, she jumped at the chance to take part in the new initiative.

Spence’s research focuses on biosecurity and the complex reasons why farmers and animal owners choose to implement or not implement recommended practices.

Her projects span many species, from equine, sheep and goats to cattle, dogs and cats. According to Spence, the questions are the same across species: why do people do what they do, and how can researchers support

better adoption of practices that are designed to keep animals healthy and productive. Because her background is primarily in equine health and epidemiology, Spence says the LRIC mentorship program was invaluable.

“I didn’t know what to expect on that first farm visit, but it was such a good learning experience,” she recalls. “Seeing the variety of farms and getting to meet and speak directly with farmers gave me a much better understanding of how broad agriculture is in Ontario and of the many challenges and opportunities the sector faces.”

It was those first-hand experiences and face-to-face interactions that highlighted why biosecurity adoption isn’t always straightforward.

“When you see the day-to-day reality of a working farm, you understand how complex it is, and how much is constantly going on that puts demands on farmers’ time,” she explains. “That context is critical for designing practical, effective strategies.”

Building networks for future research

Beyond the farm visits and science communications training, the mentorship provided something equally valuable: connections. LRIC’s team, including Director of Operations, Jean Howden, and former CEO, Mike McMorris, has played a pivotal role in linking Spence to people across the livestock industry.

For a researcher who spends much of her time in front of a computer, building those industry relationships and having the chance to ask questions directly to farmers and sector leaders were some of the most important takeaways from her mentorship experience.

Recognizing early career excellence

Spence’s contributions and potential were recognized this spring when she was named one of two winners of LRIC’s Early Career Researcher Award, which provides direct support to help promising young scientists to advance their research programs in ways that benefit Ontario’s livestock sector.

The $100,000 award is funded by LRIC, Grand River Agricultural Society (GRAS), Western Fair Association (WFA), Ontario Agricultural College and Ontario Veterinary College to encourage cross-sectoral and crossdisciplinary approaches to livestock research.

“LRIC’s support has been instrumental,” Spence says. “The mentorship program gave me real-world context, and the award is helping me build projects that are grounded in the needs of farmers. Together, they’ve made a big difference in how I approach my work.”

Strengthening the link between research and industry

Programs like the early faculty mentorship and early career researcher award underline LRIC’s commitment to ensuring research doesn’t happen in a vacuum. By fostering stronger connections between scientists and farmers early in their careers, LRIC is helping ensure tomorrow’s research is relevant, practical, and impactful across Ontario’s beef and broader livestock industries.

For Spence, the experience has been transformative.

“I really enjoyed going to the farms - that was one of the most beneficial aspects, especially coming from outside an agriculture background. It’s something every researcher should have the chance to do,” she says.

WORLD AMR AWARENESS WEEK: FARMERS HELPING TO REDUCE ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health risk. AMR is when bacteria, virus, fungi, and parasite populations adapt and are no longer affected by the medications designed to kill them, making infections harder to treat. Recent data shows that more than 18,000 hospitalized patients acquire AMR infections each year in Canada. In 2019, AMR was estimated to be linked to approximately 4.95 million deaths around the world.

In 2024, the United Nations introduced two high-level initiatives to address AMR: a joint Declaration committing signatories, including Canada, to strive to meaningfully reduce the quantity of antimicrobials used globally in the agri-food system from current levels by 2030, and the creation of World AMR Awareness week.

For this year’s World AMR Awareness Week, which took place November 18 to 24, Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC) once again highlighted the important steps farmers and veterinarians are taking to ensure on-farm stewardship of antimicrobials, as well as advocacy efforts to improve access to a wide variety of veterinary healthcare tools.

ACCESS TO VETERINARY HEALTHCARE TOOLS IS KEY TO HELPING REDUCE AMR

AMR affects human health, animal health, and the environment, with the "One Health” approach recognizing that all sectors have a role to play. As such, in addition to ensuring proper on-farm stewardship, one of the best ways to help reduce AMR is to ensure that farmers and veterinarians have access to as wide a variety of veterinary healthcare tools as possible.

Unfortunately, various domestic barriers have put Canadian access to veterinary healthcare tools at a crisis point. The tools that are currently available are eroding at a significant rate. A lack of product variety and availability means farmers and veterinarians must rely on an increasingly limited number of tools, some of which are also used in human medicine.

DFC is currently leading a coalition of 16 national stakeholders representing animal agriculture, veterinarians, and product manufacturers who are working together to help improve access to veterinary healthcare tools. In 2024, the coalition submitted a joint Whitepaper to key federal officials and parliamentarians proposing a series of consensus solutions.

It’s important to note that none of the proposed solutions will solve the problem of AMR on its own. However, each of the proposed solutions would increase Canadian access to critical veterinary tools Adding to the progress farmers are making towards enhancing prudent antimicrobial stewardship and use, an expanded toolkit will put our industry in a better position to play its part and take action to reduce AMR.

WORLD AMR AWARENESS WEEK 2025: “ACT NOW: PROTECT OUR PRESENT, SECURE OUR FUTURE”

The theme for this year’s World AMR Awareness Week was “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.”

During last year’s World AMR Awareness week, the coalition of national stakeholders led by DFC conducted joint advocacy to inform parliamentarians about the steps farmers are already taking to ensure prudent use and stewardship – and to request parliamentary support in urgently implementing the solutions identified in the Whitepaper.

As a result of these efforts, this past September, we saw significant progress in the federal government’s Red Tape Review Progress Report, which reflects several of the recommendations proposed in the joint Whitepaper. Of particular importance was a recommendation to enable Health Canada to rely on decisions made by trusted foreign regulators to urgently facilitate the entry of needed veterinary drugs into Canada. This was identified as a top priority by the coalition and was emphasized within DFC’s advocacy efforts throughout the summer and fall.

While this represents a huge step forward towards improving access to veterinary healthcare tools – there is more work to be done to continue advancing the consensus solutions in the Whitepaper. DFC and members of the coalition are committed to continued collaboration to ensure farmers and veterinarians are best equipped to play their part as part of a One Health approach in helping to reduce AMR.

CHECK OUT DFC’S FACT SHEETS ON ANTIMICROBIAL USE

DFC has resources for Canadian dairy farmers on antimicrobial stewardship and reducing use in both adult cattle and youngstock on the proAction website.

Download and read them at dairyfarmers.ca/proaction/ resources/food-safety

Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week – 60th Anniversary (January

7–12, 2026)

Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week (GBFW) is celebrating its 60th year in 2026 and will once again offer both in-person and livestream attendance – meaning anyone, from anywhere, can join in!

Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week has been a mainstay for the agricultural industry in Grey and Bruce Counties since 1966. The featured commodities have changed as agricultural focus evolved, but the mandate of producer education has remained firm. The agendas are jam-packed with high impact presenters, and the trade show is filled to capacity on most days.

• In-person presentations will be delivered from the Elmwood Community Centre. Without a doubt the best way to experience GBFW, producers can pose questions directly to presenters, network with each other or with agribusiness, peruse the tradeshow, and of course, enjoy a hot roast beef lunch each day!

• Livestreaming will be available (at the time and 30 days afterward) for those who are unable to travel to Elmwood during the conference. This option still allows for questions to be posed to presenters through a chat box, and no winter driving is required to take part!

Dairy Day, Thursday, January 8th , will feature a full lineup including:

• Improving Dairy Herd Fertility with veterinarian and dairy farmer, Dr. Jodi Wallace

• Navigating Succession Planning for Dairy Operations with Robert Scriven

• Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) Update with Mark Hamel, Chair and Board Member of Region 11

• Navigating Dairy Economics and COP in 2026 with Farm Credit Canada's FCC’s Justin Shepherd

• Producer Panel: Raising Healthy, Thriving Calves featuring Larissa Hamel, Kristen Stevenson (Portena), Rob Kirkconnell and Dr. Jodi Wallace, facilitated by Cynthia Miltenburg

Grey Ag Services, info@greyagservices.ca, 519-986-3756

Dairy Sen$e 2026

January 30, 2026 – February 1, 2026

For all youth ages 18-25

(prior to January 1, 2026)

Location: Best Western Hotel, Arden Park in Stratford, Ont.

Registration Deadline: January 9, 2026

If you plan to be involved in the dairy industry in any way, Dairy Sen$e® is for you!

Through guest speakers, case studies, facility tours and networking with industry leaders, you’ll gain practical skills that will set you up to run a profitable dairy operation.

• Gain management skills from Ontario’s top dairy farmers

• Learn the key elements of a succession plan

• Network with other young dairy farmers

• Tour facilities and hear from knowledgeable guest speakers

Dairy Sen$e offers an invaluable, intensive opportunity to learn the business and operations of dairy and apply them to your farm.

Cost: $220. This fee covers your experience at Dairy Sen$e, including accommodations, meals, activities and supplies.

For more information, please contact: 4-H Ontario’s Coordinator, Events events@4-hontario.ca , 1-877-410-6748 x 468

Canadian Dairy Hub

The Canadian Dairy Hub supports Canadian dairy farmers and their advisors through industry changes. Users of this hub are supported in their journey to learn, act and improve. You will find free access to practical, science-based information and expertise that helps raise awareness and facilitate the adoption of best practices and innovations on farms.

This platform is brought to you by Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC), the initiator and owner of the Hub. DFC has a long-standing commitment to research, guided by the National Canadian Dairy Research Strategy and the Canadian Dairy Research Council. By investing in knowledge transfer, DFC completes the value of industry investments research – closing the loop by ensuring that science and innovations are delivered directly to farmers.

Partners

The Canadian Dairy Hub is also a collaborative space, and our partnerships are at the heart of its success. DFC is proud to work closely with Lactanet, whose support is instrumental in delivering this program effectively. DFC also collaborates with provincial producer organizations and the many experts who contribute through various research and knowledge transfer initiatives. The Canadian Dairy Hub is guided by the DFC National Knowledge Transfer in Dairy Production’s Advisory Committee. These partners help shape the direction of the Hub and contribute valuable expertise that strengthens its impact across the Canadian dairy sector. This is just the beginning –the Hub will continue to grow and evolve, with new resources and tools added over time to meet the sector’s changing needs.

Free online small-group discussion for Canadian dairy farmers on cow housing and Code of Practice requirements.

This event is for you if you…

• want to connect and exchange ideas with fellow dairy farmers from across Canada

• have questions about cow housing – especially around freedom of movement, stocking density and calving areas

• are interested in sharing your experiences

• want to deepen your understanding of the Code of Practice requirements for cow housing and the reasoning behind them

• are looking for practical strategies to adapt cow housing to meet those requirements

Tuesday, December 2, 2025, 12pm - 2 pm EST

Thursday, December 4, 2025, 1pm - 3pm EST

Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 2pm - 4pm EST

Tuesday, December 16, 2025, 9am - 11pm EST

Thursday, December 18, 2025, 10am - 12pm EST

To register, visit: https://dairyhub.ca/en/events/.

The South Western Ontario Dairy Symposium

Dairy producers, industry professionals and enthusiasts mark your calendars because the South Western Ontario Dairy Symposium will take place on Thursday, February 19, 2026 in Woodstock, Ont.

Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026 with doors opening at 9:00 am

Location: Woodstock Fairgrounds, 875 Nellis Street Woodstock, Ont.

Expert Speakers: This year's symposium features a dynamic lineup of speakers who will share cutting-edge knowledge and practical strategies shaping the future of dairy production. Highlights include Vincent Cloutier of National Bank of Canada, presenting Navigating CUSMA Revisions & Evolving Consumer Expectations, and Dr. Chris Church of Central Dairy Solutions, discussing facilitating advisory teams to help producers succeed.

Where the science of nutrition meets accurate feeding for a sustainable future

Targeted Approach

Cutting-Edge Exhibits: Explore over 100 exhibitors featuring the newest technologies, equipment, and services to enhance dairy farm efficiency and profitability.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow dairy enthusiasts, build valuable relationships, and exchange ideas with industry peers and leaders.

Local Dairy Delights: Savour a selection of local dairy products featured in our “Food From Our Farms” listing, showcasing the incredible flavours and versatility of Canadian dairy.

To stay updated on the South Western Ontario Dairy Symposium, visit our website www. dairysymposium.com, and follow us on our social media accounts (@SWODSdairy).

FCC – Empowering the Next Generation of Farm Leaders

FCC Launch is a 12-week virtual learning experience developed in partnership with Ivey Business School. This program is designed to equip young farmers and junior partners with essential business management skills, preparing them to become future leaders in agriculture.

Program Highlights:

• Focused on three core areas: Finance, Business Strategy and Leadership

• Interactive sessions, real-world case studies and peer collaboration

• Networking opportunities with industry experts and fellow participants

• Designed for successors and future farm leaders seeking confidence before taking on key decision-making roles

Value & Details:

• $3,500 value offered for just $200 thanks to FCC’s commitment to supporting the next generation

• Limited seats: 50 per cohort (English and French options available)

• Cohorts start in January

• Registration deadline: December 15, 2025, or until seats are filled

For details, visit: https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/ knowledge/launch.

Kendra Keels honoured with the Carl Block Award for her life-long leadership in the Canadian livestock sector

ANIMAL HEALTH CANADA IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE KENDRA KEELS AS THE 2025 CARL BLOCK AWARD RECIPIENT, recognizing her outstanding commitment to the veal industry and the broader livestock sector, including the dairy calf, in Ontario and across Canada.

As the Industry Development Director at Veal Farmers of Ontario (VFO) for almost 20 years, Kendra has championed animal health and welfare, strengthened producer supports and advanced collaboration across Canadian agriculture.

Kendra has been a strong advocate for industry collaboration and policy development, strengthening the voice of both veal and dairy calf producers within the broader Canadian agricultural landscape. She has championed producer education and training programs, giving farmers the tools they need to enhance animal health and sustainability. She has played a pivotal role in guiding the development and implementation of the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Veal Cattle, ensuring that the highest standards of animal welfare are met.

Kendra was awarded the 2025 Carl Block Award during a ceremony on September 23 at the 2025 Animal Health Canada Forum in Ottawa, which gathers stakeholders in Canada’s animal health and welfare system to share actions and initiatives in relation to animal health and welfare.

The Carl Block Award honours the memory of Carl Block, a cattleman whose tireless dedication to Canadian agriculture and commitment to animal health will long be remembered. The award is given to individuals who demonstrate leadership, commitment and passion in enhancing animal agriculture in Canada.

“Udder Comfort works.”

— Nick Thurler

“We are using Udder Comfort™ since it rst came out. I think we were the very rst customers,” says Nick Thurler of Thurler Farms, Inc. Nick and his sons Robert and Michael operate the dairy, milking 480 to 500 cows. His sons are the third generation. Today, they are also involved in manure to biogas.

“Udder Comfort softens and soothes the udders. When we see a cow that needs it, we put it right on, right away, and things get better. We also like the blue color. Other milkers see it and pay more attention to that cow,” Nick explains.

“We tried other products, but they didn’t seem to work. Udder Comfort works,” Nick adds.

Ontario Milk Transport Association awards 2025 scholarship

The Ontario Milk Transport Association (OMTA) has awarded its 2025 OMTA Scholarship to Alana Bartja, a nursing student from Listowel, Ont.

The annual scholarship recognizes students pursuing post-secondary education and is funded by the association’s members, who transport more than 3 billion litres of milk each year from dairy farms to processors across the province.

Bartja, a fourth-year nursing student at Canadore College, was selected for her strong academic record and active community involvement. In her application essay, she emphasized the nutritional role of dairy products in maintaining health and wellness, particularly in patient care.

The scholarship reflects the OMTA’s commitment to supporting education while highlighting the role of dairy in everyday life.

January 13 - 15, 2026

Fairmont Royal York Hotel Toronto, ON

January 13 -15, 2026

Fairmont Royal York Hotel Toronto, ON

January 13 -15, 2026

To register, book accommodations or view the event agenda, visit www.dfoagm.com.

Fairmont Royal York Hotel Toronto, ON

For questions, please contact dfoagm@milk.org.

Aussie farm future uncertain as it’s slowly swallowed up by inner suburbia

By Chris McCullough

ENCIRCLED BY INDUSTRIAL AND RESIDENTIAL ZONES means any expansion is impossible for Kelly’s Dairy Farm in Victoria, Australia, but that doesn’t hinder Sarah Kelly’s farming ambitions. The young mum of three works closely beside her dad, Gerard, 65, on the traditional farm near Skye that the family has run since 1978 and is a huge advocate for the dairy industry.

Given the fact their dairy farm is the closest to Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), the Kelly family are unsure how long it can exist before being swallowed up for development. Even with such an uncertain future, Sarah and her dad milk each day, doing the job they love the most and continue to promote dairy farming to the public.

Sarah, 38, whose grandparents hail from Northern Ireland, takes any opportunity to promote dairy farming and ensures her three young daughters make the most of growing up on a dairy farm.

“Our family has been dairy farming here since 1978 when my grandparents purchased the property. Right now, we are the closest dairy farm to Melbourne CBD and are classified as metropolitan surrounded by housing and industrial estates,” says Sarah.

The Kelly farm extends to 300 acres and runs 280 Holstein Friesian cows with an average yield of 8,000 litres per cow per year. With an average butterfat of 4.5 per cent and protein at 4 per cent, the milk is sold to the Australian Dairy Farmers Corporation for around AUS$9 per kilogram of milk solids.

• We are now pleased to announce that we are interested in buying your holstein bull calves and can include them i n your regular pick up. We will take calves that are over 9 2 lbs and 10 days old. The price will be negotiated on a w eekly basis.

• Presently serving southwestern Ontario region and Ottawa region. For a Calf Pick Up Request text (519) 788-1399 by 1:00 pm Mondays

We are always open to new ideas to diversify and do things a better or more economically efficient way. Our main issue is the unknown of the future. We could be pushed out from this property next week or 20 years down the track.

— Sarah Kelly

“In 1993, we replaced the old herringbone milking system with a DeLaval 32-unit rotary parlour to milk the cows,” says Sarah. “The cows are grazed outdoors on a pasture-based system, and we make our own silage and buy in feed as we need it. When the cows are milking, they receive some grain dispensed on the rotary parlour, depending on lactation, and we also buffer feed hay and silage out on the pastures, when required.”

“Along with my dad and I working on the farm is my cousin Josh, so it’s a fairly tight labour unit,” she adds.

In terms of the herd’s breeding strategy, the Kelly family introduced genomics over the past two years, in a bid to improve the overall status of their cows.

“We have introduced genomics in the last two years and are looking forward to seeing what improvements have been made,” she says. “For the past 30 years, it’s been our policy to practice AI [artificial insemination] on the farm using top genetics. With that, alongside good farming methods, we have built up good mastitis resistance, good milk production, cow health and fertility. And going forward with genomics, if we can improve any of these traits, even slightly, then it has all been worth it. A Friesian bull is used to mop up any of the cows that are not in calf, following AI.”

“Although we are investing in the breeding system on the farm, the only other big investment on the farm recently has been a more powerful tractor,” Sarah adds. “We normally just stick to what works for us here, with no huge financial outlays.”

With the farm’s location so close to Melbourne, the future of dairy farming for the Kelly family at their current site is quite uncertain. Expansion is almost impossible but improving the efficiency of the farm and the herd is a goal for Sarah.

Kellys have been using genomics to improve the overall status of their herd.

Sarah takes on every opportunity to advocate for the dairy industry speaking at events, meetings and on every social media channel possible.

“Due to us being gridlocked between housing and factories, we are unable to expand,” says Sarah. “We are always open to new ideas to diversify and do things a better or more economically efficient way. Our main issue is the unknown of the future. We could be pushed out from this property next week or 20 years down the track. Therefore, it’s really difficult to know what upgrades or investments to make when we don’t know what the future holds.”

“We just keep going with the flow and try to make things work here as best as possible. We don’t seem to have any issues with being surrounded by suburbia, more of a curiosity from the locals who have a complete disassociation with where their milk comes from. I love to educate them on what we are doing here and how loved our cows are,” she adds.

With that in mind, Sarah takes on every opportunity to advocate for the dairy industry speaking at events, meetings and on every social media channel possible. She has also recently travelled to New Zealand and the U.S. to help champion the sector.

“Our family originated in Ireland, and I am the sixth-generation farmer, third one on this farm. I sincerely hope we can raise our seventh generation here,” she says. “I am very passionate about the future of the Australian dairy industry, and I chair the young dairy network. I also will be involved in more dairy advocacy groups in the future to come.”

“All too often the dairy industry receives a hammering from an uneducated public, and I see it as my role to help equip consumers with more knowledge of exactly how their nutritious dairy product is made.”

Sarah Kelly with her dad Gerard farm at Skye in Victoria, Australia.

The

One of Sarah’s three daughters, Milly, enjoys growing up on the farm.

Winter-ready calves

By Veal Farmers of Ontario

AS WINTER APPROACHES, preparation is key to keeping calves healthy, comfortable and growing. Cold weather increases a calf’s energy needs and adds challenges for housing, feeding and water management. Paying attention to details now will help ensure calves stay warm and thrive throughout the winter season.

Secure, dry and comfortable housing

Outdoor hutches continue to be an excellent choice for calf health and biosecurity, but they need a little extra attention before winter sets in.

Make sure hutches are firmly secured against high winds using ground anchors, stakes or sandbags. Piling snow around the base adds both insulation and stability. Whenever possible, position hutches to face south to capture sunlight and place them near a natural windbreak, such as a building or treeline, to protect from prevailing winds.

Proper ventilation is essential, even in winter. Fresh air helps prevent respiratory disease but avoid direct drafts on calves.

Inside the hutch, deep, dry bedding is one of the simplest and most effective ways to provide warmth and comfort. CalfCare.ca recommends using a base of seven to 10 cm (three to four inches) of shavings topped with about 30 cm (12 inches) of straw in winter conditions. This allows calves to nest deeply, trapping a layer of warm air around their bodies and maintaining a high nesting score. Clean, dry bedding helps prevent cold stress and illness.

Warm water access

Calves need access to fresh, unfrozen water every day. Water not only supports hydration but also improves digestion and rumen development. Offer warm water – close to body temperature (38 to 39°C) – shortly after milk feedings. Remove ice promptly and use heated or insulated waterers where possible.

Restricting water access reduces starter intake and slows rumen development, so it is important not to skip water even during freezing weather. Encouraging regular drinking helps maintain feed intake and overall health.

Feed for the temperature

As temperatures drop, calves require more energy to maintain body heat. The thermoneutral zone – the range where calves do not need additional energy – varies by age:

• Birth to four weeks: 10 to 25°C

• Four weeks to weaning: 0 to 25°C

When temperatures fall below these ranges, calves are cold-stressed and need extra calories. Increase the total amount of milk or milk replacer fed by about two per cent for every degree the temperature drops below 5°C.

Feeding milk or milk replacer warm – at body temperature – will help conserve energy. Use a thermometer during mixing and feeding, especially outdoors. If your milk replacer is lower in energy, consider increasing grams per litre within label guidelines or adding an extra feeding rather than mixing too strong. Keep milk replacer solids between 13 and 15 per cent to avoid digestive upset.

Mixing consistency

Weigh milk replacer powder rather than scooping to maintain accuracy, since volume measures vary with packing. Avoid sudden changes in feeding amount or concentration on extremely cold days and ensure all calf feeders follow the same feeding routine.

Extra insulation

Calf jackets are another valuable tool for conserving body heat, especially for newborns and young calves. Jackets provide an extra layer of insulation, allowing calves to use less energy to stay warm. Check jackets daily to ensure they fit properly, are dry and not restricting movement. Always wash them between calves to maintain hygiene.

Cold-stress signs

Early detection makes a substantial difference. Watch for:

• Shivering or trembling

• Raised hair coat

• Cold ears or extremities

• Reduced feed or water intake

• Hunched posture or reluctance to rise

• Sunken flanks or visible weight loss

• Damp or dirty hair coat that stays wet

Daily winter routine

Cold weather calf care depends on consistency and observation. Check calves twice daily for signs of cold stress, replace wet bedding immediately and ensure ventilation openings are free of snow or ice buildup. Paying attention to these small details helps prevent illness and supports steady growth all winter long.

Bottom line: Preparing calves for winter takes planning, but small steps make a significant difference. Securing hutches, providing warm water and adjusting milk feeding programs to meet higher energy needs all contribute to healthier, more resilient calves. Consistent attention to housing, feeding and comfort through the winter will pay off in stronger healthier calves come spring.

The BouMatic TL Series liners are the next step for a more efficient dairy parlor.

The specially designed tapered triangular barrel along with the round should aides to keep the mouthpiece vacuum low. The tapering also keeps the touchpoint well below the teat end, effecitively hugging the teat rather than pinching the teat. Our lightweight shell keeps her comfort level high and the milkout time at an all-time low.

Give your herd the extra care they need for the life of your dairy. Learn more at BouMatic.com/Turbo

VG-85-2YR-CAN

Daughter: Clear-Echo Montvrdi 5621 EX-90

Photo: Carl Saucier

Dau.: Westcoast Mntvrdi Abyss 14595

Westcoast Holsteins, Chilliwack, BC

Photo: Holly McFarlane