Sign up for our New Newsletter
Dairy St r Milk Break
Email andrea.b@dairystar.com to sign up.
DAIRY ST R “All dairy, all the time”™
Volume 20, No. 24
February 9, 2019
Frigid temps wreak havoc on dairies Farmers across Midwest battle extreme winter weather By Jennifer Coyne jenn@dairystar.com
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Emily Pieper feeds calves milk during aŌernoon chores Jan. 31 at her family’s farm near New Prague, Minn. Pieper dressed in extra layers to withstand the chilling temperatures.
FENNIMORE, Wis. – The Upper Midwest has long been known as a favorable farming region with a temperate climate ideal for raising livestock and growing crops. Unfortunately, plunging temperatures and dangerously cold wind chills Jan. 29-31 made daily chores agonizing for dairy farmers across the region. “This has been emotionally and physically exhausting,” Amy Scanlan said. “At one point our tractor wasn’t working to feed TMR, the waters were frozen, and the cows were bellowing. All I could do was ball myself.” Scanlan and her husband, Tim, prepared for the drastic weather, but are still dealing with the aftermath of the unusual conditions on their 125-cow dairy farm near Fennimore, Wis. Chilling temperatures as low as negative 40 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chills dropping to 60 degrees below zero in parts of northern Minnesota, blanketed the Upper Midwest as a cold front moved in from Canada. As the weather passed through, people were encouraged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. “To put this into perspective, the National Weather Service only ever issues a wind chill warning at negative Turn to WEATHER | Page 5
JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
Snow blows around the Gamradt family’s dairy farm Jan. 29 near Sauk Centre, Minn. Temperatures as low as negaƟve 40 degrees Fahrenheit and wind chills dropping to 60 degrees below zero blanketed the Upper Midwest as a cold front moved through from Canada.
Bloomer organic farmers win outstanding young farmer award Seibels demonstrate excellence in progressive farming practices By Stacey Smart Contributing Writer
BLOOMER, Wis. – Adam and Chrissy Seibel, organic dairy and crop farmers from Bloomer, Wis., won the prestigious 2019 Wisconsin Outstanding Young Farmer award at the states’s OYF 65th annual awards weekend Jan. 25-27 at Comfort Suites in Johnson Creek, Wis. Pioneers of both organic farming and robotic milking, the Seibels are also dedicated conservationists and active members of their community, devoted to promoting and advancing agriculture. “I was pretty surprised they chose us,” said Adam Seibel. “The other nalists were just as deserving.” Adam and Chrissy are partners with Adam’s parents, Chuck and Diane Seibel, on the 140-cow, 1,100-acre Seibel’s Organic Dairy in Chippewa County. Adam is the fth generation of Seibels to run the family farm. The Seibels have been successful with organic farming, achieving yields that mirror those of conventional farming. “Organic doesn’t always get the credit I feel it deserves, so it’s a great honor to win this award,” Seibel said. The dairy became certied organic in 2001. “We were one of the rst dairies to jump into the organic movement and were certied long before it was popular,” Seibel said. In 2005, the Seibels began an expansion project, building a three-row, 150-cow freestall barn, followed by calf and heifer facilities as well as feed and grain storage. In 2011, the Seibels became one of the rst organic dairy farms in the United States to install a robotic milking system. With no blueprint to follow, the Seibels faced a variety of challenges in meshing robots with organic farming. “Organic cows have to pasture,” Seibel said. “And in summertime, they must consume 30 percent of their dry Turn to SEIBELS | Page 7
Page 2 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
DAIRY ST R www.dairystar.com
ISSN 020355 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave. Sauk Centre, MN 56378 Phone: (320) 352-6303 Fax: (320) 352-5647 Published by Dairy Star LLC General Manager/Editor Mark Klaphake - mark.k@dairystar.com 320-352-6303 (ofce) 320-248-3196 (cell) 320-352-0062 (home) Ad Composition Nancy Powell 320-352-6303 nancy.p@dairystar.com Amanda Thooft 320-352-6303 amanda.t@dairystar.com Consultant Jerry Jennissen 320-346-2292 Editorial Staff Andrea Borgerding - Associate Editor (320) 352-6303 • andrea.b@dairystar.com Krista Kuzma - Assistant Editor (507) 259-8159 • krista.k@dairystar.com Jennifer Coyne - Assistant Editor (320) 352-6303 • jenn@dairystar.com Ruth Klossner (507) 240-0048 cowlady@centurylink.net Danielle Nauman (608) 487-1101 danielle.n@dairystar.com Danna Sabolik - Staff Writer (320) 352-6303 • danna.s@dairystar.com Maria Bichler - Copy Editor 320-352-6303 Advertising Sales Main Ofce: 320-352-6303 Fax: 320-352-5647 Deadline is 5 p.m. of the Friday the week before publication Sales Manager - Jeff Weyer (Northern MN, East Central MN) 320-260-8505 (cell) jeff.w@dairystar.com Mark Klaphake (Western MN) 320-352-6303 (ofce) 320-248-3196 (cell) Laura Seljan (National Advertising, SE MN) 507-250-2217 fax: 507-634-4413 laura.s@dairystar.com Jerry Nelson (SW MN, NW Iowa, South Dakota) 605-690-6260 jerry.n@dairystar.com Mike Schafer (Central, South Central MN) 320-894-7825 mike.s@dairystar.com Amanda Hoeer (Eastern Iowa) 320-250-2884 • amanda.h@dairystar.com Megan Stuessel (Western Wisconsin) 608-387-1202 • megan.s@dairystar.com
Deadlines The deadline for news and advertising in the Dairy Star is 5 p.m. Friday the week before publication. Subscriptions One year subscription $35.00, outside the U.S. $110.00. Send check along with mailing address to Dairy Star, 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave., Sauk Centre, MN 56378. Advertising Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an advertisement shall constitute nal acceptance of the advertiser's order. Letters Letters and articles of opinion are welcomed. Letters must be signed and include address and phone number. We reserve the right to edit lengthy letters. The views and opinions expressed by Dairy Star columnists and writers are not necessarily those of the Dairy Star LLC.
The Dairy Star is published semi-monthly by Dairy Star, LLC, 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave., Sauk Centre, MN 56378-1246. Periodicals Postage Paid at Sauk Centre, MN and additional mailing ofces. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Dairy Star, 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave., Sauk Centre, MN 56378-1246.
A glance at what’s inside The extreme cold weather consumed many of us since the last issue came out. The historic low temperatures the last week in January caused many challenges for dairy farmers across the Midwest. We have several features about farming in the frigid air. Along with our front-page story about how two farmers dealt with temperatures plunging into the negative 30s, we also talked to dairy producers from By Mark Klaphake across our coverage area how they faired through the frigid cold weather Jan. 29-31 and what problems Editor arose on their dairies. Read about them on pages 1112 in third section. Another story highlights how winter poses threats to animal health if the right care is not given to the cattle. Animal housing, nutrition and comfort of all animals on the farm are important to take into consideration when the mercury drops uncomfortably low. Read more about caring for cattle in cold weather on pages 18 and 20 in rst section. Our “From our side of the fence” feature also deals with cold weather. We asked dairy farmers how they prepare their farm for a cold snap, what challenges they face, how low temperatures changes their daily routine and how it affects their herd. They also describe some of the most frustratingly cold days they have experienced in their farming career. Turn to pages 15 and 16 in rst section to read about it. Cold weather isn’t the only topic in this issue of the paper. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, we found several couples who have dairy farmed together for 30 years or more. They shared with us what they love about dairying, the key to the longevity of their career, their most memorable experiences while farming and the keys to working side-by-side with their spouse. Find the couples featured on pages 7 and 8 in second section.
Favorite quotes from this issue:
“The only thing in this business you can control is your own attitude, and what you do with it.” – Ron Bula (Third Section, Pages 6, 8)
“You can only cut so much before it starts to hurt your production.”
– Brandon Marshik (First Section, Pages 10-11)
By the Numbers
120,000:
Pounds of cheese made from May through October at Upland Cheese. (Third Section, Pages 2-3)
cases of tuberculosis 50: Human disease conrmed in Wisconsin each year. (Second Section, Page 6)
CONSISTENT, TIGHTLY WRAPPED BALES
RW ROUND AND SW SQUARE BALE WRAPPERS • Low-profile design for maximum stability and gentle unloading • Consistently wrapped to maintain forage quality throughout storage • Patented pre-stretcher with aluminum rollers for easy cleaning • Easy to operate
INVEST IN QUALITY ® 3–point mounted and trailed models · satellite or turntable KuhnNorthAmerica.com m
D & D Farm Supply Arcadia
Komro Sales & Service Durand
Cherokee Garage Colby
Lulich Implement Mason
Kalscheur Implement Cross Plains
Lindstrom Equipment Mondovi
East Side Farm Equipment Monroe Frontier Ag & Turf Osceola New Richmond
Steinhart's Farm Service Platteville Carl F. Statz & Sons Waunakee
Visit your local Wisconsin KUHN dealer today!
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 3
It’s all inside... Columnists Ag Insider
Pages 8-9 First Section
Our Expansion Project Page 22 First Section
Bloomer
Seibels demonstrate excellence in progressive farming practices
The Transition Pen Page 27 First Section
Withee
Ontario
Third Section: Pages 11 - 12
First Section: Pages 34 - 35
Hartman proposes using precision agriculture
Surviving the cold snap
First Section: Pages 1, 7
Ramblings from the Ridge
Bayeld
Douglas
Iron
Page 30 First Section
n
Ashland
Page 31 First Section
Sawyer
W as
Burnett
hb
ur
Veterinary Wisdom
Wisconsin Dells
Ensuring markets for your milk
Price
Cashton
Third Section: Pages 2 - 3
Heart for Dairy First Section: Pages 23, 25
Making Cents of Dairy
Polk
Rusk
Barron
Taylor St. Croix
Come Full Circle
Pierce
Page 33 First Section
Dunn
Pepin Buffalo
The “Mielke” Market Weekly
Pages 10 - 11 Second Section
Viroqua
Heart for Dairy Second Section: Pages 7 - 8
Chippewa
Marathon Clark
Eau Claire Trempealeau
Page 32 First Section
Fond du Lac
Lammerses work their way into farm ownership
Wood Jackson
Second Section: Pages 3 - 4
Adams
La Crosse Monroe
Juneau
Country Cooking
Vernon
Page 21 Second Section
ford
Richland
Sauk
Craw
Iowa
Fond Du Lac Columbia
Dane
J
Fennimore
Lafayette
Green
n
so
er eff
Grant
Zone 2
Dodge
Rock
Frigid temps wreak havoc on dairies First Section: Pages 1, 5 - 6
Lomira
Roof collapses due to heavy snow First Section: Page 37
Wisconsin Dells
Journey graziers, lender share stories, ideas
For additional stories from our other zone, log on to www.dairystar.com
Third Section: Pages 6, 8
Give milk production a push GEA’s FRone works around the clock to keep feed at the bunk, maximizing your cows’ production. Could your bunk management routine use a little extra push? GEA’s FRone automated feed pusher provides consistent, high-quality feed available day and night to boost production results from your whole herd. It’s easy to use, charges fast and contains twin batteries for maximum run time. With the help of GEA’s FRone, you can push the limits on your feeding program.
Page 4 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
UGLY WEATHER, UGLY COATS UGLY BARN COAT/JACKET CONTEST WIN A BRAND NEW GILMAN CREAMERY COAT FREE!
Simply take a picture of yourself, post it on Facebook and tag us or #gilmancoopuglycoat on Instagram. CONTEST ENDS WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2019
February Specials!
SPANIER CALVING PENS
Was $2,695 FEBRUARY SPECIAL
$2,595 SAVE $100!
TOP PRICES PAID & CONTRACTING AVAILABLE
Amplifier Max - Calf Milk Replacer
Milk Energizer
Your Market For:
Holstein Steers • Fed Dairy Cows • Lean Dairy Cows
Electrolytes Vaccines
Reg. $29
FEBRUARY SPECIAL
$24.95
3 QT. CALF BOTTLE $4.99 EA.
Bovine IgG
- Colostrum replacement
- Extra Fat Supplement for Additional Energy (25 & 50 lbs.) s.)
CALF COATS
snap on or screw on nipple - your choice
Calf Insure
- Calf supplment maintains gut health (25 lb. pail or 8 lb. pouch)
Inforce™ 3 Bovi-Shield Gold® 5 Bovi-Sheild Gold® FP® 5L5 Cattlemaster® Gold FP™ 5L5
• Improve utilization of winter forage • Improve conception rates • Regulated release • Produce heavier, healthier calves • Improve body condition All with less wasted feed in a convenient free-choice lick tank feeder!
SUPERSIZE your weaning weights with Mol-Mix Liquid Supplements!
Gilman Co-op Creamery
FEED & FARM SUPPLY STORE
Bruce Belter • 507-429-0359
Your local area buyer for MN, IA and WI.
Holstein Steers • Lean Cows • Bulls • Fed Cows
Bill Bartusch • 877-300-9298 Long Prairie, MN Lean Cows • Bulls
CALF WARMERS
Green Bay Dressed Beef
Pink & Blue
Call for Pricing
Dean Derricks • 920-655-4730 Green Bay, WI Holstein Steers • Fed Cows • Lean Cows
Jim Ryan • 605-668-4275 Yankton, SD Lean Cows • Bulls
Mike Baczwaski • 800-445-0042 Gibbon, NE Fed Cows • Lean Cows • Bulls
Gilman, MN 320-387-2770
Open M-F 7:30-7, Sat. 7:30-5, Sun. 8:30-1
Long Prairie Buying Station
Good service - fair prices - every day
WWW.GILMANCREAMERY.COM
Cody Ritter • 320-293-5212 • 320-732-8358 Long Prairie, MN
Improve your Cow & Calf Health
Introducing Pure
COMPARE TO HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
• Fast, broad spectrum kill of micro-organisms (bacteria, yeast, mold, algae, viruses) • Destroys bioÀlms which play a key role in the proliferation of waterborne pathogens. • CIO2 does not lose its effectiveness in the face of organic matter • Oxidizes metals found in water such as iron and manganese. • Oxidizes odor causing compounds such as sulfur. • Works at a wide pH range. Organic material raises pH. • CIO2 treats the entire closed water system, including the surfaces that do not get wet • CLO2 breaks down to water, oxygen and table salt. VERY SAFE! This makes it much less corrosive to equipment and a superb environmental choice.
3000
A highly effective water injection system
PREVENTS: • Scours • Crypto • Somanella • Ecoli
HIGHLY EFFECTIVE AGAINST • Prototheca • Staph aureaus • Mycroplasma.
AVAILABLE IN 5, 15, 30 AND 55 GALLON DRUMS AND 265 GALLON TOTES. FOR MORE INFO - CONTACT ONE OF THESE DEALERS...
Advanced Dairy Systems
Athman Dairy Inc.
D&D Ag Supply
9 State Rd. 29 • Spring Valley, WI 54767 (715) 772-3201
238 Main Street North • Pierz, MN 56364 (320) 468-2494
133 Atlantic Ave. NE • Pennock, MN 56279 (320) 599-4466
Anderson Dairy Systems, Inc.
Champion Milking Systems
East Central Dairy Supply
1312 13 1/2 Ave. • Barron, WI 54812 (715) 537-3300
23218 350th Street • Albany, MN 56307 (320) 845-4156
2195 Hwy. 23 • Mora, MN 55051 (320) 679-1029
Eastern Iowa Dairy Systems 105 3rd Ave. NW • Epworth, IA 52045 (563) 876-3087
Fuller’s Milker Center, Inc. 423 U.S. 61 • Lancaster, WI 53813 (608) 723-4634
Gorter’s Clay & Dairy Equipment 1400- 7th St. SE • Pipestone, MN 56164 (507) 825-3271
Lang’s Dairy Equipment, Inc. 2337 Millennium Rd. • Decorah, IA 52101 (563) 382-8722
Leedstone
24260 Cty. Rd. 27 • Plainview, MN 55964 (507) 534-3161
Leedstone
2545 80th Ave • Woodville, WI 54028 (715) 698-4370
Mlsna Dairy Supply
1126 Front Street • Cashton, WI 54619 (608) 654-5106
Professional Dairy Systems
1449 Homecrest Ave. • Wadena, MN 56482 (218) 632-5416
Tri-County Dairy Supply, Inc.
4107 N US HWY 51 • Janesville. WI 53545 608-757-2697
United Suckow Dairy
12687 Hwy 18 & 52 • Postville, IA 52162 (563) 864-7417 210 N. Industrial Pkwy • West Union, IA 52175 (563) 422-5355
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 5
COLD CALVES NEED MORE ENERGY!
ConĆ&#x;nued from WEATHER | Page 1
PHOTO SUBMITTED
The freestall barn at the Piepers’ dairy is closed up during the extreme cold temperatures Jan. 31 at Pieper’s farm near New Prague, Minn.
35 or colder,� Laura Edwards said. “As Midwesterners, we pride ourselves in being hardy, but really this weather was exceptional.� Edwards is South Dakota’s state climatologist. Prior to the onset of cold, farmers provided ample, dry bedding to their livestock, altered rations to account for the extra energy needed,
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
• Provides additional energy to maintain consistent growth during bouts of cold weather as calves exposed to ambient temperatures below 59°F will utilize energy for warmth rather than growth • Reduces need for providing an additional feeding • Easy to handle dry formula • Easily mixed into milk or milk replacer
320-836-2145 or 800-450-2145
Check out our newly redesigned website to ½nd a Famo Feeds dealer near you!
www.famofeeds.com
Repair vs. Replace
Call: (c) 406-590-7764
www.circuitÀxer.wixsite.com/ boumaticboardrepair
We Offer the Following Agricultural Services:
Barn Lighting, Sheds, Fans, Trenching, Irrigation, Homes & More!
.M. ELEC E.A Bob Meyer TRI . B Master Electrician, Owner Lic. #CA03435
Specializing in: WestfaliaSurge, BouMatic, & DeLaval pulsators & Takeoffs, circuit boards, Mueller milk tank circuit boards.
" %
Need an Electrician?
!
Electronic Dairy Board Repair Service
C
Pieper and his family milk 440 cows near New Prague, Minn. The youngstock and cows are all housed indoors; however, the milking herd walks a short distance outside to the parlor. To keep the animals out of the elements as much as possible, the Piepers reworked their schedules so more were available to help clean the stalls and move the cows back to the barn as soon as they exited parlor. “We’re not taking many the“Chores took us six hours, breaks to keep things even with extra guys on hand,â€? Pieper said. “We’re not taking moving. It’s exhausting ... many breaks to keep things It’s exhausting ‌ completely cumbersome.â€? moving. completely cumbersome.â€? For Pieper and those working TIM PIEPER, DAIRY FARMER outside, they dressed in several layers and tried to protect and prepped machinery as best as exposed skin from frostbite. possible. Unlike other winter storms, this “Last week we made sure our system arrived with snow and then diesel barrels were full,â€? Tim Pieper lingered with wind speeds surpassing said. “All this week, we’ve been 30 miles per hour in some areas. using our standby generator, which is monitored by the power company, Turn to WEATHER | Page 6 every afternoon and evening.â€?
Use Milkr Energize to keep them growing!
E lectric Cell:
320-761-1042 Serving Central Minnesota
COMPLETE BARN SOLUTIONS WHATEVER YOUR DAIRY NEEDS
Cory Eldridge • State Center, IA • Call us to help you make your dairy operation more efďŹ cient.
800 Head Tunnel Ventilated Breeding Heifer Facility PINE ISLAND, MN • 800-233-8937 BEATRICE, NE • 800-342-5657 SIOUX FALLS, SD • 800-705-1447 MENOMONIE, WI • 715-235-5144
www.midwestlivestock.com
Page 6 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
ConƟnued from WEATHER | Page 5
Willmar, MN • 320.231.1470
EXPANDING OR REMODELING YOUR LIVESTOCK OPERATION? LANGE AG SYSTEMS SPECIALIZES IN:
Ŷ NEW FACILITIES
_
NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL
Ŷ RETROFITTING & REMODELING Ŷ TURNKEY PROJECTS Ŷ BARN DESIGN Ŷ INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS
ƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ tĞ KīĞƌ͗ ͻ sĞŶƟůĂƟŽŶ &ĂŶƐ ͻ sĞŶƟůĂƟŽŶ ŽŶƚƌŽůƐ ͻ WŽƐŝƟǀĞ WƌĞƐƐƵƌĞ dƵďĞƐ ͻ ƵƌƚĂŝŶ ^LJƐƚĞŵƐ ͻ DĂƩƌĞƐƐĞƐ ͻ tĂƚĞƌĞƌƐ ͻ ^ƚĂůů ƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ ͻ ,ĞĂĚůŽĐŬƐ ͻ DŝƐƟŶŐ ^LJƐƚĞŵƐ
Lange Ag Systems is proud to offer Grain Bags, Silage Bags & Bunker Covers from Up North Plastics and Feed Fresh Silage Covers & Custom Size Bunker Covers from Raven!
t ^ >> E t Θ h^ 'ͳ ' Θ < >>z Zz E '' Z^
www.LangeAgSystems.com
Headlocks
& Feed Bunk
Paragon Series Cow Size
Functionality & Flexibility: • Wide open design • Precise mechanism • Adjustable head width • Cow, heifer and calf sizes • Automatic down-cow release is standard
Strength: • Heavy duty galvanized construction, Signature i Series i - Calf lf Size i
Call for FREE EQUIPMENT GUIDES on our Entire Product Line!
866-543-5166
Both the Piepers and Scanlans dealt with frozen waterers. The Scanlans’ farm is located on two sites, with youngstock at one location and milking cows housed on the other. During chores Jan. 30, the Wisconsin family realized both water wells froze. The tank on their pressure washer cracked, and the drain in the parlor was plugged with ice. At the same time, the Scanlans could only feed dry hay to the milk cows because the tractor to feed TMR would not start. Other equipment, like the skidloaders, were parked in a heated building when not operating and could still only run for a few hours. “We took a 1,300-pound hit to the bulk tank because of all this,” Scanlan said. By Feb. 1, the temperatures rose and the wind let up. On average, temperatures climbed 75 degrees – almost 100 degrees in some areas, Edwards said. It was a warm up welcomed long enough to clear manure build up, but the quick change posed risk for pneumonia and other health concerns for animals, particularly calves. “The animals are doing well, but only time will tell the true impact
“When the bills for the repairs start coming in and the milk check reects the loss in production, that’s when it will really set in.” AMY SCANLAN, DAIRY FARMER
• Poly cushioned for quieter everyday operation
will withstand years of feed bunk stress
GRAPH SUBMITTED
A map indicates wind chill temperatures across the United States Jan. 27 to Feb. 2. The Upper Midwest saw wind chill temperatures reach negaƟve 50 degrees Fahrenheit or greater during the polar vortex.
info@sturdybuiltmfg.net 260 S. Muddy Creek Rd. Denver, PA 17517
of this,” Pieper said. “That big of temperature change is as equally challenging as dealing with the cold. Knock on wood we don’t have issues with herd health.” Scanlan agreed. “It’s been pretty awful on top of a hard year,” she said. “We’re
PHOTO SUBMITTED
A water is thawed at Amy Scanlan’s dairy farm near Fennimore, Wis. The Scanlans dealt with two frozen wells from the frigid temperatures that shook the Midwest at the end of January.
still assessing the damage as it’s unfolding. When the bills for the repairs start coming in and the milk check reects the loss in production, that’s when it will really set in.” January began as a mild month and then quickly became one of the most brutal in decades. The winters of 1996 and 2014 were other years most comparable to what the Midwest experienced at the end of last month. February is not expected to be much of a relief with colder than average temperatures forecasted for the rst half the month, according to the National Weather Service. The cold temperatures will be coupled with shots of precipitation as part of active storm tracks moving through. “Long term trends show warming temperatures, and winter is warming at a faster rate than any other season,” Edwards said. “That’s not to say we still won’t see extreme cold events, they’ll just be less likely.” The bitter weather may have been an anomaly, but for dairy farmers across the Midwest it has become a burden that will be felt for months to come.
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 7
ConƟnued from SEIBELS | Page 1 matter intake from pasture. Therefore, we had to design a layout conducive to this requirement.” The Seibels spent two years coming up with the right setup, gathering ideas from Europe with its many grazing herds and implementing some of the continent’s theories. The Seibels invented a successful solution for their two robotic milkers that other organic dairy farmers could emulate. The Seibels had several kinks to work out, including the robots’ inability to handle iodine-based products like certain teat dips and sprays. But once they overcame these limitations, milk production soared. Before robots, the Seibels’ cows were milking 60-65 pounds of milk per cow per
day; now they average in the low 80s. Last spring, cows even averaged 91 pounds during a seven-day stretch. Cash cropping has become a focus for the Seibels, who have grown their acreage signicantly and now sell a fair amount of corn, beans, hay, oats and rye. The Seibels concentrate on soil quality and health, and have practiced cover cropping for the past 15 years and aerial seeding of cover crops for the past six years. “Every acre always has something growing on it, whether that’s corn, beans or something else,” Seibel said. The Seibels also directmarket about 25 head of steers per year to restaurants, grocery stores and private individuals.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Adam and Chrissy Seibel, and their children, Claire and GarreƩ, are this year’s Wisconsin Outstanding Young Farmers. They run a 140-cow organic dairy with Adam’s parents, Chuck and Diane Seibel, near Bloomer, Wis.
The Farm Service Agency and county extension agents from Chippewa, Dunn and Eau Claire counties nominated the young couple for the young farmer award. The application process involved answering eight essay-style questions. Applicants must meet certain criteria and are judged on three main areas: progress in their agricultural career; soil and water conservation; and conPHOTO SUBMITTED tributions to community, state The milking herd is housed in a three-row, 150-stall freestall and nation. Progress in ag career is weighted most heavily, barn at Seibel’s Organic Dairy near Bloomer, Wis. earning 50 percent of the nal score, while the other two sec-
tions are each worth 25 percent. Advocates for agriculture, Seibel’s Organic Dairy hosts many school groups in the spring and fall each year, teaching kids of all ages about the workings of a dairy farm and familiarizing them with where their food comes from. The Seibels also hosted FarmCity Day last year, welcoming 1,500 people to their farm to learn more about agriculture. Furthermore, the Seibels teamed up with Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., to push for integrity within organic dairy and
crop markets. Adam and Chrissy have two children, Claire, 7 and Garrett, 4. Chrissy is a high-school science teacher and helps with the farm’s bookkeeping and other odds and ends on the farm when possible. The Wisconsin Outstanding Young Farmer program was developed in 1954 to recognize the state’s younger generation of successful agriculturists. Farmers younger than 40 years of age who derive at least two-thirds of their income from farming are eligible to apply for the annual award.
WE AGREE, SAND IS A GOOD BEDDING SOLUTION, AND PROMAT’S PACK MAT CAN MAKE IT EVEN BETTER! All the benefits of deep bedding … but with 50-70% less sand Huge reduction in sand laden manure and equipment issues Payback in under one year based on sand savings alone
Please contact us to learn more or to locate your nearest dealer 1.888.337.6265 | sales@promatinc.com | www.Promatinc.com
facebook.com/promatinc
@Promat_inc
Page 8 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
$200 million in trade promotion funds awarded The United States Department of Agriculture Farmers Union wants Congress to address what it sees as a chronic oversupply situation in the U.S. has awarded $200 million to nearly 60 dairy and grain sectors. organizations as part of the trade mitiAg Insider gation effort. The American Soybean Dairy Revenue Protection is back in Association received the largest allocagear tion through the Agricultural Trade ProSales of the new Dairy Revenue motion Program at nearly $22 million. Protection policy have resumed. The A total of $5.2 million was given to the sales had been suspended during the U.S. Dairy Export Council. The money government shutdown. This revenue will be used by these groups to identify insurance policy is offered through the and access new export markets. federal crop insurance program. The program is designed to insure against Lost opportunity declines in quarterly revenue from milk The new trade agreements between sales. Japan and other countries will put U.S. By Don Wick dairy exports at a competitive disadColumnist IDFA sites success stories vantage. U.S. Dairy Export Council International Dairy Foods AssociaPresident and CEO Tom Vilsack cites the Japan’s trade agreements with Australia, New tion President and CEO Michael Dykes recapped Zealand and the European Union. “They basically the past year during the Dairy Forward Conference now tilt the playing ďƒželd to our competitors; we in Orlando, Fla. The dairy title in the farm bill and will lose market share to the tune of potentially $90 the new Class 1 pricing formula were cited. Dykes million and over the next ďƒžve years, the cumulative also highlighted USDA’s ďƒžrst-ever purchase of ďƒ&#x;uid impact will be $185 million of lost opportunity,â€? he milk for food banks and the increase in dairy prodsaid. USDEC commissioned a study that calculates uct exports. Regarding industry challenges, Dykes the loss of market access. Cheese would feel the said animal protein is in the crosshairs, with conmost signiďƒžcant negative impact, but other dairy sumers demanding food that includes a story about ingredients will also feel the pain. “At a time when the environment and social responsibility. we’re looking for every single dollar we can in the market, we can’t afford to let that happen,â€? Vilsack I’ll have whole milk House Agriculture Committee Chairman Colsaid. lin Peterson and Pennsylvania Congressman Glen Thompson have introduced legislation allowing Long-term relief sought for farmers The National Farmers Union board of direc- whole milk in school nutrition programs. Peterson tors is asking the administration and Congress to said this proposal will provide more healthy choicstrengthen the farm safety net. The Market Facilita- es for the kids and provide a valuable market for tion Program was welcomed, but the NFU board dairy farmers when they are facing difďƒžcult market said long-term relief is necessary. In addition, the conditions.
Below budget year for GENEX The 2018 ďƒžnancial results for the GENEX cooperative came in below the levels budgeted, impacted by low milk prices. This past year was a time of signiďƒžcant change for the cattle artiďƒžcial insemination company. A new parent company, URUS, was formed through the combination of Cooperative Resources International and Koepon Holding BV. The new company also divested itself of Central Livestock Association. Revenue was also inďƒ&#x;uenced by the industry’s shift to using beef semen on dairy females, with beef into dairy sales quadrupling in the past year. Von Ruden re-elected Darin Von Ruden has been re-elected to the presidency of the Wisconsin Farmers Union. The Westby farmer is in his 10th term as WFU president and is a member of the National Farmers Union board. Craig Myhre, of Osseo, Minn., was reelected vice president. WFU honors The Wisconsin Farmers Union presented its builder award to Tom and Helen Quinn of Glenwood City, Wis. The friend of the family farmer award was given to Rick Barrett, a reporter with the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. Stapel to serve another term as Edge president The Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative board of directors reelected Brody Stapel as its president. Stapel took on the role after John Pagel passed away this past year. Todd Doornink is vice president; Jim Winn is secretary and Mitch Davis is treasurer for the co-op. Turn to AG INSIDER | Page 9
Reddy Ag Service & Ross Soil Service • Mineral and Protein Mixes • Nutrition and Management Services • Robot herd consulting and pellets
Knowlegeable Professionals for each unique operation
Dan Hentrich 608-642-7334
• In-house Grain Merchandiser to locate and price bulk commodities
Mark Brown 608-330-1331
Sam Enloe 608-778-8589
Dan Welch 608-426-1819
dd www.reddyagservice.com
New Construction or Remodeling Give us a call!
Paynesville, MN 320-243-7815
www.borklumber.com Sales@BorkLumber.com
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 9
ConƟnued from AG INSIDER | Page 8
Bloomer farmer is OYF Wisconsin’s Outstanding Young Farmer for 2019 is Adam and Christina Seibel of Bloomer, Wis. The couple are partners in a certied organic dairy farm. The award is based on the couple’s agricultural career, soil and water conservation and community involvement. Dairy advocate of the year During the Dairy Business Association’s Dairy Strong Conference, Dean Strauss of Sheboygan Falls, Wis., was honored with the Dairy Advocate of the Year Award. Strauss is past president of the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin, chairs the Wisconsin Farm Bureau dairy policy committee and serves on the executive board of Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. MOSES organic During the MOSES Organic Farming Conference Feb. 21 in La-
Crosse, Wis., Jim Riddle and Joyce Ford of Winona, Minn., will be recognized as the organic farmers of the year. The couple has worked at the local, state and national level to promote organic and sustainable farming. Trivia challenge A juicy Lucy is the term for a cheeseburger with the cheese in the middle, rather than the top. That answers our last trivia question. How old was the oldest cow on record when she died? We will have the answer in the next edition of Dairy Star. Don Wick is owner/broadcaster for the Red River Farm Network, based in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Wick has been recognized as the National Farm Broadcaster of the Year and served as president of the National Association of Farm Broadcasting. Don and his wife, Kolleen, have two adult sons, Tony and Sam, and ve grandchildren, Aiden, Piper, Adrienne, Aurora and Sterling.
Butterfat & Protein are key to the size of your milk check
840001234567891
8400012
BESSIE
345678
91
DAIS Y
Your highest producing cow may not be your most proĂtable
Prev milk
milk
Fat %
85 90
88 100
4.3 2.9
Prot % Value/day
3.3 2.9
$15.35 $13.13
Cow
Daisy Bessie
Individual Cow Data Matters! Minnesota Dairy Herd Improvement Association 307 Brighton Avenue South Buffalo, MN 55313 1.800.827.3442 www.mndhia.org
DHIA: Now MORE than ever
BALEBUSTER Target Your Customers!
The Dairy Star is sent only to DAIRY FARMERS!
If you would like to advertise in the DAIRY STAR, call 320-352-6303 for more information.
The
I.R.S. is at
KLC
Ideal Roasted Soybean! A great value for the money!
The Ideal Roasted Soybean has what you need for your dairy ration: Energy Protein Amino Acids Bypass Protein Put the “I.R.S.” to work for you!
KLC Farms Roasting, Inc. 1-877-738-2326 877 738 232 Visit www.roastedbeans.com
Quality
Consistency
2574 BALE PROCESSOR
2574 BALE PROCESSOR WITH BLOWER: Bale Processor for erosion control, cattle bedding and feeding. Processing bales for erosion control just got a lot easier and smoother with the introduction of the Model 2574 blower-type processor. The newlydesigned belt drive system drives the fan and rotor and allows for smooth, quiet operation. The 2574 has the capability to blow mulch up to 100 feet into those hard to reach areas. With a variety of spout options, we can offer the machine that fits your needs.
Blue Hilltop, Inc. 507-879-3593 – 800-821-7092
Box 116, Lake Wilson, MN 56151 – www.bluehilltop.com
Page 10 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
PROTECT THOSE EARS! Calf Ear Warmers $
20
each
+Shipping & Handling
DAIRYING IN TOUGH TIMES
Marshiks lean on relationships, efciencies to stay dairying
Light weight Easy to apply Bright colors
Keep those calves ears warm in these bitter cold days. CALL OR EMAIL HOLLY TODAY WITH YOUR ORDER:
hpoad@hotmail.com • 608-347-2342 Triple P Farm | 30626 Hwy JJ, Lone Rock, WI | 608-347-2342
Les Kuehl
Repair Service 20+ Years Experience
• Sealed silo parts & service • Stainless steel roofs • Feeders & conveyors • Stainless steel conveyor chains • Best chains on the market • Early maintenance service checks • Used and rebuilt unloaders Not afÀliated with the Harvestore brand
320-760-2909
Eve. 320-762-1827 No Emergency Charges--Ever!
tfn
JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
Brandon and Jill Marshik milk 80 cows near Rice, Minn. The Marshiks purchased the farm in 2014 and have spent the last four years carefully managing their dairy to weather the poor markets. The next issue of the Dairy Star is published Feb. 23rd. Advertising and news deadline is Friday, Feb. 15th.
By Jennifer Coyne jenn@dairystar.com
Rated for softness:
WINGFLEX MATS hick 2.5” t
The Kraiburg Wingflex design creates the highest softness for the greatest cow comfort. The innovative wing profile adapts to your cow’s body shape and the chamfered rear edge eliminates the stumbling edge and is gentler on your cow’s joints. • Dimensionally stable and permanently soft • Slip resistance • Integrated soft slope to rear edge promotes cleanliness • Enlarged contact surface reduces bearing pressure. • Easy to clean and disinfect
AVAILABLE AT:
133 Atlantic Ave. NE • Pennock, MN
320-599-4466
RICE, Minn. – While some have left the dairy industry in the last ve years others have entered, but it has not been easy. “Honestly, it’s stressful,” Brandon Marshik said. “I wake up and sometimes think what more can I do? But, I’ve worked too hard and put in too much effort to sell out.” Brandon and his wife, Jill, began milking 23 cows in the spring of 2014 near Rice, Minn. Today, the Marshiks, and their young children – Cylie, Audrie and Dominic – are maintaining a herd of 80 cows, an accomplishment the couple credits to open communication with their lender and working with their farm business management instructor to make decisions for the betterment of the dairy. “A lot of people like to do what they know works and don’t change,” Brandon said. “I have many different ideas, and I’m not afraid to do something different.” This mentality has helped the Marshiks maintain an 80-pound bulk tank average, a somatic cell count of 30,000 to 40,000, and some of the highest quality milk produced in central Minnesota.
“We’re not greedy; we’re just looking for enough to pay the bills. We’ve been under our breakeven point for too long.” JILL MARSHIK, DAIRY FARMER
In the beginning of their dairying career, Brandon and Jill worked tirelessly to improve cow comfort and milk quality. “We spent the rst two years just surviving,” Brandon said. “We wanted to get through without making expensive updates.” After developing a strict milking routine and prioritizing cleanliness on the farm, and turning a machine shed into a freestall barn, the Marshiks saw results.
As more opportunities became available to expand, the Marshiks looked to the bank for help. Since beginning farming, the couple has maintained a good relationship with their lender and he is willing to help when they need it. “We started with nothing and he gave us a chance,” Jill said. The Marshiks also work with their farm business management instructor to keep records up to date. They diligently le monthly DHIA information so it is easy to see where the farm stands. “Everybody is in a pinch and sometimes the milk check isn’t big enough,” Brandon said. “We have the records to show that we can make things happen. Our banker trusts us to make it work. Brandon and Jill continue to milk in the 28-stall tiestall barn, keeping a majority of the herd in the freestall barn and bedded pack nearby. When a cow comes down with mastitis, or another health issue, Brandon quickly evaluates his treatment options and sometimes has to remove her from the herd. The couple also chooses to keep a young herd with few cows over ve calves. “Last year, we had 34 cows leave the herd,” Brandon said. “Our low SCC isn’t reected much on the milk check, but we’re saving on what it would cost to treat her or the decrease in milk.” The Marshiks began with 800,000 SCC and have since decreased that value by nearly 95 percent. In 2015, the couple started using the CowManager system to detect heats and more closely monitor herd health. “Our preg rate went up and continues to rise,” Brandon said. “We’re getting our animals bred on time and our milk is increasing because we’re getting the cows bred back sooner.” Two years after putting the monitoring system in place, the Marshiks built a manure pit and an outdoor lot for dry cows and heifers. To weather the cost of such changes on the farm, the Marshiks are no longer using milk replacer to feed their calves. Instead, they save some milk at each milking. They are also raising the bull calves for resale. Turn to MARSHIKS | Page 11
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 11
ConĆ&#x;nued from MARSHIKS | Page 10
German Valley Dairy Doug & Anna, Caleb and Titus Wolf JENNIFER COYNE/DAIRY STAR
Brandon Marshik reviews data collected from the CowManager System. The Marshiks implemented the technology in 2015, and it has helped improve their pregnancy rate and overall herd health.
In their personal life, the Marshiks also watch their spending. “We only buy what we absolutely need. ‌ $20 here and there adds up,â€? Jill said. While Brandon and Jill have found ways to eliminate expenses on the farm, they have also remained steadfast with certain costs, such as quality feed and bedding. “Health and cleanliness is important to us,â€? Jill said. “So, $80 for a bale of straw is a lot, but having one cow with mastitis or a sick calf can be costly. In the long run, $80 is worth it for what I can prevent.â€? Brandon agreed. “You can only cut so much before it starts to hurt your production,â€? he said. “We’re careful where we cut costs and are pretty efďƒžcient. And, those investments have been expensive, but they’ve been worth it.â€? The Marshiks continue to do all the farm labor themselves and share ďƒželdwork equipment with Jill’s parents. Despite their best efforts,
dairying has not been pleasant for the Marshiks. Often, they have thought about what their life could have been without milking cows, but are quickly reminded of the purpose they ďƒžnd in themselves. “2018 was the worst,â€? said Brandon of the cattle market. “You couldn’t turn any which way and were forced to hang on to everything. A lot of people told me not to get into it, but this is what I wanted to do.â€? Jill agreed. “We’re not greedy; we’re just looking for enough to pay the bills,â€? she said. “We’ve been under our breakeven point for too long.â€? With changes to the farm bill and forecasted markets showing some relief, the Marshiks are hopeful the worst may be behind them. “We’ll continue working towards our goals and trying different things when we hit a wall,â€? Brandon said. “What keeps me going is the progress we’ve made in ďƒžve years and the lifestyle we’re able to have with our family.â€?
“Fuller’s has been doing our route service for 15 years. We like the working relationship with Mike Thousand, the route tech. Having monthly and yearly maintenance protocols kept up with significantly reducing frustrating emergency calls for us.�
No one knows your equipment better.
Keep It Genuine.
712-722-3626 Your AGCO Parts Dealer has the quality OEM parts you need when you need them. Everything you need from hardware, chain and batteries to tillage, belts and cutting parts are available from your AGCO Parts Dealer. Along with the help of our highly trained service personnel at AGCO Parts to make it allParts comeDealer together, you can rest easy. Stop your AGCO Your AGCO hasso the quality OEM parts youinto need when you Parts Dealer and get the partsyou andneed services need tochain “Keepand youbatteries in the Field� need them. Everything fromyou hardware, to this season. Find out more at AGCOParts.com. tillage, belts and cutting parts are available from your AGCO Parts Dealer. Along with the help of our highly trained service personnel at AGCO Parts Š "($0 $PSQPSBUJPO "($0 UIF "($0 MPHP BSF SFHJTUFSFE USBEFNBSLT PG "($0 $PSQPSBUJPO
DEIKE IMPLEMENT CO.
P.O.Box 834, Waverly, Iowa 50677 • email: information@deikeimplement.com
SERVICE AFTER THE SALE Q-Catch 8500V Vet Squeeze Chute
Easy Cattle Handling
Cowpower 1050 hyd. chute
Store Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30-5:00 Saturday 7:30-noon
www.deikeimp.com Sales Phone: 319-352-3731 • General Phone: 319-352-1117 USED TRACTORS - Low rate ďŹ nance Available White 8524 24-30 central ďŹ ll, t.wipers, shutoffs .........$67,900 MF8690, hi-speed CVT, lux.pkg., guidance prep .......$102,000 White 8222 12-30 ex frame, t.wipers, low acres .......$39,900 NH T9.560, 16 spd PS, duals, guidance .................. Coming In White 8202 12-30, 2013, 1-owner, dig. monitor .........$39,900 JD 420 2-cyl, sharp, 3 pt, sickle mower, 2nd owner......$6,750 White 6100 12-30, liq.fert, trash wheels .....................$11,500 IH 300 utility, loader, front pump, fast hitch ..................$4,250 CIH TigerMate 200 32’ F.Cult, 4-bar coil, harrow.........$27,900 Kubota B3200 4x4, hydro,72â€? deck,390 hrs ...............$13,100 Bobcat 72â€? seeder, 2014, 3 pt. or skidloader, little use .$5,350 Kubota BX2660, 4x4, hydro, deck, loader ...................$11,950 HARVEST EQUIPMENT Kubota BX2670 4x4, cab, deck, snowblower ..............$18,500 AGCO R65, tilt, monitor, 285 hp Cummins,chopper....$89,500 Kubota BX1500 FWA, hydro, 600 hrs, 48â€? deck, 3 pt....$5,450 Gleaner 8000 30’; 800 30’ and 25’ Flex Heads ...................Call NH TC21D 4x4, hydro, deck. loader ..............................$9,975 Gleaner 830 and 630 Hugger Cornheads ...........................Call Kubota L5240, 4x4,cab, hydro,frt.snowblower ...........$27,900 CIH 1660, bin ext, 963 head, 1020 20’ ex .................$17,900 Farmall Super C recond, 1 remote, sickle mower..........$4,750 MISC. EQUIPMENT TILLAGE & PLANTING EQUIPMENT Bobcat 72â€? Soil Conditioner, gauge wheels ...................$7,350 JD 980 31’ ďŹ eld cult, all tandems, 3-bar coil tine ........$12,500 New Snowblowers, Blades, Pallet Forks, Bale Spears ........Call Landpride 7’ no-till seeder, demo ...................................$9850 NEW Sunower and Landoll Tillage ...................................Call White 8816 16-30 central-ďŹ ll, trashwheels .................$64,500 JD X485, JD X700, low hours ...........................................Call White 8824 24-30, central ďŹ ll, liq.fert., 1-owner .........$84,500
Page 12 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Managing more than cows
Panelists discuss how to work with employees By Krista Kuzma
krista.k@dairystar.com
WELCH, Minn. – With the amount of work on a dairy, many farmers have to hire employees. “It’s no longer just the cows,” Marco Lopez said. “You are becoming people managers.” Lopez and Mario Solis, both technical services specialists for FormA-Feed, were the moderators for a panel with three dairy farm managers talking about employees on dairy farms. The
“It’s no longer just the cows. You are becoming people managers.”
KRISTA KUZMA/DAIRY STAR
A panel of dairy managers – (from leŌ) Dan Coates from Legacy Farms in Shell Lake, Wis.;, Joe Jans from Co-Jo Dairy in Grove City, Minn.; and Cayetano Avila from D&D Dairy in Rushford, Minn. – talk about their experiences dealing with employees during the Form-A-Feed Professional Dairy Conference Jan. 18 in Welch, Minn. not receive health insurance or other similar benets, employees are given paid vacation after one year. Another panelist, Joe Jans, is a partner in his family’s dairy, Co-Jo Dairy, which milks 850 cows near Grove City, Minn. His dairy has 17 employees along with him and his dad. Most employees are full time and are given paid vacation after one year of employment. They also have the ability to sign up for AFLAC insurance, which the dairy pays half of. The third panelist, Dan Coates,
MARCO LOPEZ, FORMǧAǧFEED
seminar was an informal question-andanswer type format Jan. 18 during the 2019 Form-A-Feed Professional Dairy Conference in Welch, Minn. One panelist, Cayetano Avila, is the dairy manager of D&D Dairy near Rushford, Minn. The 950-cow dairy has 21 full-time employees along with him and an owner. While they do
is the operations and human relations manager at the 1,500-cow dairy, Legacy Farms, in Shell Lake, Wis. There are about 24 employees with six being family and six being owners. Five of the employees are part time. They are given paid vacation, which is prorated with the ability to earn up to 80 hours. Audience members provided the questions for the three panelists during the seminar. Two questions asked about starting pay for employees and if the farms offer any incentive programs. At D&D Dairy, employees are
DAIRY EXPO
9:00 am 10:15 am 10:30 am
11:30 am
531 Morse Street Norwood Young America, MN Trade Show and Education for Dairy Producers.
COST: $10/person $5/Student (with ID) (Includes lunch & refreshments. Cash or Check only.)
$250 Prize
Registration - Trade Show Open 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Early Bird Drawing- Chanhassen Dinner Theatre Tickets by UFC
Farm Transition is not for Sissies
Maximizing Genetic Gain with Strategic Breeding
Merri Post Southwest Minnesota Dairy Farmer
Brandon Thesing Corp. Account Manager, Minnesota Select Sires
Keynote Address: Regional Changes and the Pressure on Price
Open the Gate: Make Communications 2:15 pm Count Ted Matthews Rural Mental Health Counselor, Minnesota Dept. of Agriculture
3:15 pm
Beef Quality Assurance Patty Sinclair Dairy Nutrition and Management Consultant, UFC PRESENTED IN SPANISH 10:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. Certification Opportunity
Enjoy Lunch and the Trade Show
12:30 pm
www.farmcounseling.org
For Dairy Expo information, please call Carver County Extension (952) 466-5300.
Travis Busman Hoof Care Technician and Consultant, Sure Step Consulting International, LLC
HELD IN THE AUDITORIUM
15 p.m. Drawing at 3:
Online information available at https://z.umn.edu/2019DairyExpo and Facebook: @CarverScottExtension
Hoof Care and Lameness Prevention
Dr. Mark Stephenson Director of Dairy Policy Analysis, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Monday, February 18, 2019 CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL
Turn to EMPLOYEES | Page 13
Schedule of Events
27TH ANNUAL
Carver County
started at the same pay rate. The same is true at Co-Jo Dairy, where employees receive a starting pay of $11, but usually receive a $1 increase within the rst month if they do not miss a day of work and show a good work ethic. “If you show up with a smile on your face and on time I’ll give you a raise,” Jans said. The night shift receives a $1 higher wage. Over time, Jans increases wages. “If they come to me and ask, I
Dairy Situation and Outlook for 2019
Hoof Care and Lameness Prevention
Dr. Mark Stephenson Director of Dairy Policy Analysis, University of WisconsinMadison
Travis Busman Hoof Care Technician and Consultant, Sure Step Consulting International, LLC
Door Prize Drawings - Trade Show Arena
Health and Safety on Dairy Farms Chela Vazquez Project Coordinator, Immigrant Dairy Worker Health and Safety, UMASH PRESENTED IN SPANISH
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 13
ConƟnued from EMPLOYEES | Page 12 usually give it to them,” he said. Coates said only his milkers have a set wage for starting. Other positions depend on each employee’s experience and age. He tries to give raises totaling up to $2 during the rst year. “If I can get them through their rst year, that will keep them there longer,” Coates said. “[The raise] seems to be good incentive.” Legacy Dairy is the only one of the three to
“Four times a year we sit down with them and show them where their weaknesses are and where they can improve.” DAN COATES, DAIRY FARMER
offer an incentive program, which has changed four times in the last three years. Their most recent change started at the beginning of 2018 and seems to be working, Coates said. The program is based on individual performance rather than somatic cell count or milk production. Every quarter, an employee has a review with a supervisor who gives them a score on how they are doing. That score determines how large the employee’s bonus will be. “Four times a year we sit down with them and
Novak Welding & Repair
• Gates and fencing for livestock facilities, parlors & loading areas • Access to high quality headlocks and freestalls Priced • Portable Welding Right!
REMODELING RETROFIT • CUSTOM
JEFF NOVAK 608-929-1161
4736 State Rd., 80 Highland, WI 53543
Target Your Customers! The Dairy Star is sent only to DAIRY FARMERS!
If you would like to advertise in the DAIRY STAR, call 320-352-6303 for more information.
show them where their weaknesses are and where they can improve,” Coates said. “It has helped immensely in retaining and improving their job.” Another person asked about important factors besides money that help keep employees on their dairy. “You have to care about them,” Avila said. “We have to do the best we can with whatever problem they have when they come to us. Talk to them and do whatever we can to x it.” Jans agreed. “We are a team and a family,” he said. “We’re all pretty close to everyone who works on our dairy. Make sure you talk to them and ask them how their family is. Make conversation with them like you would anybody else.” Coates echoed those sentiments along with giving certain long-term employees a bit of exibility. “If I give them time off after they come to me saying they need time off for family things, when they come back they’re that much more loyal,” Coates said. Someone in the audience asked the panel members what they look for when hiring employees. For Avila, the process is simple. “Whoever wants the job, I interview them,” he said. “If they stay, then they stay.” Jans calls his method the beating heart syndrome. “If you have a beating heart, you’ve got a job,” he said. But most of the time he asks his crew for potential employees.
“Ninety percent of the time they’ll have someone,” Jans said. “That seems to work because if I hire someone and they don’t get along, they’ll be gone after a week anyway. I let the employees try to ll the position rst.” Coates has a similar hiring process. “If you’re breathing you’ve got a job,” he said. “I try to go away from that, but it’s tough especially if we have a few positions open. A lot of times the crew comes to me and says the walking and breathing method doesn’t work because they end up paying for it because the person will walk out or not do their job. A lot of times we’ll put the extra effort in to hire the right person.” It is also critical everyone gets along, Coates said, especially with his diverse work crew. Along with hiring local and foreign-born employees, Legacy Farms also hires through Wisconsin Corrections. To communicate with their employees, each of the farms have meetings. D&D Dairy meets every month while Co-Jo Dairy has quarterly gatherings. “And, we’re always in conversation,” Jans said. “Every one of them knows they can talk to me any time. We’re pretty open.” Legacy Farms has a meeting every two weeks on pay day to talk about any problems or good things that have happened. Every other meeting they talk about a safety item, and every month they have a larger meeting with a presentation about changes to implement or how to improve an area of the farm. A lot of times, the dairies will offer a meal or try to show appreciation. “Thank you goes a long way,” Lopez said.
n I v e i r t ’ e u d o ! Y BYRON SEEDS MINNESOTA
FEBRUARY MEETINGS COMING SOON!
OWATONNA Cabela’s
ST. CLOUD Holiday Inn
WADENA Pizza Ranch
3900 Cabela Dr. NW
75 S 37th Ave. N
106 Jefferson St. S.
GRANITE FALLS Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort 5616 Prairies Edge Ln.
Tues., Feb. 12
Wed., Feb. 13
Thurs., Feb. 14
Fri., Feb. 15
THIS YEAR’S EXPERT LINE UP OF SPEAKERS INCLUDE: 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Leo Brown, Sorghum Management & Quality 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Ag Resource Consulting, Soil Fertility and Forage Quality Noon
Lunch
1 p.m.-2 p.m.
Dennis Brown, KingFisher Corn & Plot Research
2 p.m.-3 p.m.
Jim Paulson, Economics of High Quality Forage
Sign in at 9:30 for each location. Events run daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Lunch served at noon. FREE Sundby’s Jacket w/Purchase of Living Quarter Horse Trailer! FREE Honda Generator w/Purchase of Select Models of Trailers!
FOR INFORMATION CONTACT Rick Tamm 320-267-5021 or rtamm@albanytel.com
Page 14 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Exceptional
PARTS & SERVICE La rg
l
ut
ou
h
ion .
ing Dealer
If y
Silo Unloader Parts
Roger, Terry, Luke and Joe
nd l Ha
We welcome Dan Ahrens to the parts department. He moved from the shop to help you with your parts & on the farm service needs.
Minnesota’s
Dan, Mike and LaShana
ng and Ma i d e nu Fe t re es
o s wwave a m a e v b w.d arn, we ha y.co airylandsuppl
We welcome Terry Mader & Luke Kasper to our service department.
Dairyland Supply has rental TMR mixers available during breakdowns
WE REPAIR IT!!!
No Matter What
®
Ritchie Waterers Installation Available. Parts On Hand.
COLOR FEEDER MIXER The Only Dedicated TMR Mixer Service Truck In Minnesota
Most Models In Stock.
SAUK CENTRE, OFF I-94 ON THE CORNER OF HWY. 28 & 71 SOUTH
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 15
From Our Side Of The Fence How do you prepare for cold weather?
Tom Weigel Platteville, Wis. Grant County 350 cows How do you prepare your farm for a cold snap? We make sure the heater works in the shop and put as much equipment in that we can. We make sure everyone has good, dry bedding. As far as equipment, we make sure everything is full of blended fuel to ensure things work smoothly. What challenges do you have with cold weather on your dairy? The two biggest issues are frozen manure in the barns that can build up and frozen drinkers in some of our sheds. How do the low temperatures change your daily routine? Not much changes in the daily routine, but we change how we do certain things. When the temperatures are really low, we add a third person for milking to help keep cows moving through, and open/ shut the doors and curtains between groups. Overall, we have more people on call to help with issues that arise from the cold – whether it be something breaking or needing to plow snow. How has the cold weather negatively affected your herd? How do you handle these situations? Try to feed everyone more to keep production up. Prolonged cold will drop production, but we do everything we can to keep fresh feed in front of them and keep them healthy. With sickness, we keep in touch with the vet and hope for the best. With really low wind chills, the cows either get better or they won’t. Describe the most frustrating day you experienced on the farm because of cold weather. Jan. 31. We started the day off with no power and the tractor wouldn’t start so that we could run the generator. Luckily, the power wasn’t off for too long, but milking got started one hour late. It was day three of record low temps and things started to get caught up with that. We had a broken water line, frozen drinkers, broken garage door … you name it. Thankfully the cows and calves did great in the cold weather snap we had, but a frustrating day nonetheless. What is the best tip you’ve received about how to handle cold weather for your dairy? Get winter fuel and lots of heating devices to keep things thawed out and running properly. What is a must have for yourself when preparing to go out into the cold? Lots of layers. Warm boots and gloves. Cell phone in case of emergency. Tell us about your farm. Weigel Dairy is owned by Tom and Kelli Weigel. It has been in the family since 1889. Tom is the fourth generation, and they have two sons, Jake and Tyler. We milk 350 cows in a 10-cow swing parlor three times a day. There are three herds milked on the farm owned by Tom, Tyler and Becca Hilby. The herd is comprised of Holsteins, along with some Brown Swiss, Jerseys and a few crossbred cows. We also run 850 acres of hay, corn and barley, and do some custom work as well.
Katie Wood Independence, Wis. Trempealeau County 44 cows How do you prepare your farm for a cold snap? We put submersible heaters in our waterers. This has saved hours of thawing them out in past years. We also buttoned everything up for this last record cold spell (45 degrees below zero) and made sure all the springing heifers were inside to prevent frostbite. We added diesel additive to the skidsteer and tractors, bedded heifers extra and mixed extra feed. Baby calves were bedded with uffy straw daily so they could snuggle in and stay warm. Every calf gets a calf blanket as well. What challenges do you have with cold weather on your dairy? Mother nature can turn simple daily chores into a battle when the weather gets sub-zero, and especially when the wind chill comes into play. We try to stay ahead of the 8-ball. How do the low temperatures change your daily routine? In this last cold stretch, we double fed our milk cows, so we only had to start the TMR tractor once a day. It takes extra time to check all the waterers, and we did have one freeze up. We feed our calves an extra feeding to help them stay warmer and have more energy. How has the cold weather negatively affected your herd? How do you handle these situations? The cows are not affected by the cold. They usually go outside for a while during the day, as long as it’s not too cold. This last few days of really bitter cold, they stayed in and had no idea it was even cold out. Describe the most frustrating day you experienced on the farm because of cold weather. We have a manure pump in the barn that went into self-destruct mode Dec. 30, 2018. On a Saturday morning, we had to get a septic truck to pump out the reception pit so we could work on it. The next day, I was thinking it was going to be a normal day. I was sitting at my kitchen table, and all of the sudden I heard a loud gushing coming from the basement. A pipe coming off the pressure tank had gotten a hole in it and was spraying the electrical box like a geyser. I was worried the entire time that the water going to the barn might freeze up, because it was below zero and my cows didn’t have water. The following week we had a waterline break underground and the neighbor brought his backhoe over. We spent all day on that project, and by the grace of God we had just come out of a cold spell and temps were in the 30s. What is the best tip you’ve received about how to handle cold weather for your dairy? Some of the things I do if it’s really cold out is leave water trickle, make sure you have either blended fuel for tractors or additive. I got a Reddy Heater last year for a birthday present, and that comes in handy to warm up calves and equipment. What is a must have for yourself when preparing to go out into the cold? I prefer snow pants to Carhartts. They are just as warm and so much more light weight. If it’s really cold, hot hands help to keep warm. Tell us about your farm. I farm in partnership with my sister Kelly. We own 198 acres and have around 100 registered Brown Swiss, Holsteins and one Jersey. We do embryo transfer work with our Brown Swiss, and I really enjoy that.
Sarah Sundby Elk Mound, Wis. Dunn County 1,020 cows How do you prepare your farm for a cold snap? It takes watching the weather daily. Then it is making sure we have enough bedding to bed down the outside heifers and calves, extra parts for the water tanks and extension cords to plug all the equipment in that have to sit outside. What challenges do you have with cold weather on your dairy? A lot of it is keeping the water tanks thawed out along with the drains for the manure pit so we can keep the digester running. How do the low temperatures change your daily routine? Low temperatures do play a big role in how our daily activities go. You do get behind schedule for having to wait for equipment to warm up or having to x something. Then it is doing extra walk through the pens to check for cows/heifer or calves that are not taking the cold well. There is never a time schedule on a farm. How has the cold weather negatively affected your herd? How do you handle these situations? Just like with any weather changes, you will have some animals that do go down. So, you have to take it day by day. You do what you can to keep the animals safe and warm, then you put the rest in God’s hands. Describe the most frustrating day you experienced on the farm because of cold weather. When we had many cows freshen. Our newborn calf room was getting full but it was too cold to bring them to the other side of the farm to the calf barn. Trying to gure out a way to keep the calves warm and transport them was a struggle. Then you had all the other problems of the calf barn not staying warm enough, frozen waters and Kubotas freezing up. What is the best tip you’ve received about how to handle cold weather for your dairy? Watch the weather and plan. Plan for how you want things to be done and when. Do not wait until the last second, especially when it comes to cow/heifer/calf comfort. What is a must have for yourself when preparing to go out into the cold? Coffee. Lots of hot coffee. And many, many layers. Tell us about your farm. Five Star Dairy is a family owned dairy and trucking business. Our owners are Lee Jensen, Dr. Jean Amundson and Jim Jensen. We milk around 1,000 cows three times a day in a DeLaval double-16 parallel parlor. Our barns are tunnel ventilated, with a few compost bedding packs and free stalls that are deep bedded with dried solids for bedding. We use digestive solids to bed down the free stalls. Our solids come from our raw manure where we have a separator that separates the solids from the liquids. Before we dry the solids, it is about 70 percent moisture, then after drying it is about 45 percent moisture. Doing this whole process has reduced our pathogen level 99.9 percent. With using the dry solids in the freestall pens, it has brought out SSC down to an average of 95,000. We strive for cow comfort and to educate the community about the dairy industry. Turn to OUR SIDE | Page 16
Star Blends is a full service feed manufacturing facility. We provide custom complete feeds, supplements and minerals. We utilize modern technology to produce your needed products on demand with the highest quality feeds at the best cost. We also offer a wide selection of commodities, ingredients and additives. We are focused on dairy, efficiently delivering to farms in Western Wisconsin. Give us a call, we’d be happy to discuss our commodities or custom products and services with you and your nutritionist.
1919 Riley Road Sparta, WI 54656 | 800.462.4125
Page 16 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
ConƟnued from OUR SIDE | Page 15 Amanda Thompson Janesville, Wis. Rock County 76 cows How do you prepare your farm for a cold snap? By making sure the cows can be as comfortable as possible with enough bedding, feed and thawed water. Our calves are inside a temperaturecontrolled calf barn, but even though it’s temperature controlled the pipes can still freeze if the wind is out of the west. We have calf blankets on hand for any newborns along with a heating box. We try our best to keep the fuel from gelling up. We keep all tractors we use plugged in. We make a daily haul for manure so trying to keep the manure spreader thawed is another thing. You can prepare all you want for weather conditions, but no matter how prepared you are things still happen. What challenges do you have with cold weather on your dairy? Pipes freezing, equipment not working, tractors not starting, trying to keep animals alive along with ourselves, and if we had an emergency we hope the vets are able to come. The most important thing is the milkman. How do the low temperatures change your daily routine? We keep the cows on the regular milking schedule. We let the cows out on comfortable days, but on cold days they stay in, and we pitch feed to them that we put in a cart from the silos. While the animals are outside, we do things as fast as we can to get them fed so they can go back into the freestall barn and be comfortable in their bedded stalls. How has the cold weather negatively affected your herd? How do you handle these situations? When the cows get off their normal schedules, they do go down on milk. I’m always with my animals so I can tell when I have one that’s off and not herself. They will either be down on milk, not eating and they lay down more than they usually do. If it’s something they need an antibiotic for, we will milk them in a bucket and after they are milked it gets dumped and not put in the tank. Before their milk ever gets put back in the tank, we test the milk making sure all the antibiotics are out. Describe the most frustrating day you experienced on the farm because of cold weather. Freezing pipes and equipment not running. I try not to get frustrated. Farming has always been a dream of mine from as way back as I can remember. Even though we have our issues, I would never change and love doing it. I denitely don’t do it for the money. I do it for the love I have for it and the animals. What is the best tip you’ve received about how to handle cold weather for your dairy? Sticking with the cattle, making sure they have water and feed. What is a must have for yourself when preparing to go out into the cold? Warm and dry clothes. Tell us about your farm. My grandparents bought the farm in 1971. The milking barn has 46 tie stalls and 10 stanchions. There are two outside freestall barns with 40 stalls each, but we only use one because the other one we use to store our large square bales of hay. In 2006, my grandparents retired from the dairy part of the farming, but continue to do the eld work. I decided I wanted to go into farming in 2007, because my grandparents had bred heifers that we bought. My husband is working off the farm now, which left me doing more around the farm and making more of the decisions all while raising our almost 3-year-old daughter, Ellie Mae.
Wood
Shavings BULK
OR
BAG
Brittany Spurley Linden, Wis. Iowa County 600 cows How do you prepare your farm for a cold snap? We make sure everything is bedded up really well and bring extra bedding up closer to where we need it. If we have a lot of cows to calve during that time, we will induce them ahead of time. We rearrange shot schedules, if possible, during the cold to reduce stress on cows and humans. We go through the inventory of feed and supplies to make sure we have plenty of everything on hand. What challenges do you have with cold weather on your dairy? We struggle with getting manure out of the barns when it’s completely frozen. We have a pad outside where we haul it out to, but by the time we’re done scraping, they’re done in the parlor with that group. We also struggle with keeping our calf hutches drift free. They are across the road from the main barn, on a ridge, so the wind blows the snow in pretty hard. How do the low temperatures change your daily routine? Low temperatures mean we change days off to make sure my calf feeders are in pairs outside. We cancel anything that isn’t milking or feeding. I start by checking thermostats on furnaces, tube heaters and hot water heaters. Then, chores start by checking to make sure drinkers are all opened up. It becomes very basic and a lot more of checking in with one another to make sure everyone is OK. How has the cold weather negatively affected your herd? How do you handle these situations? Our negative effects tend to lean towards fresh cow issues if I induce them ahead of time. We walk the fresh cow pen twice a day and watch them as they come through the parlor. They are milked four times a day, so we catch them pretty quickly, and I aggressively treat anything that’s suspicious. Other illnesses in cows are caught by walking or on the computer. Those cows are moved to our bedded pack hospital, which is kept deep bedded. Describe the most frustrating day you experienced on the farm because of cold weather. Our most frustrating day in cold weather was Wednesday in the last polar vortex. We lost power for about an hour that morning, had a cow go down with milk fever in an outside drover’s lane, found out propane doesn’t vaporize normally at 25 degrees below zero, and my furnace went out in the house. None of our equipment that had been outside plugged in would start and our motors on the overhead doors had enough condensation in them that they wouldn’t work unless we manually opened and closed them. To top it off, my parents were on vacation. What is the best tip you’ve received about how to handle cold weather for your dairy? Just take it one project at a time. What is a must have for yourself when preparing to go out into the cold? My must have is warm feet and a warm drink. Tell us about your farm. We’re a second-generation family farm in southwest Wisconsin. Dad started milking on his own in 1987, and my brother Shaun and I have come back to the farm. We’re milking 600 Holsteins and raising our own replacements. We also raise the majority of our own feed.
S&S Wood Products
35335 Green Street | Independence, WI 54747
800-234-5893 | 715-985-3122 Replace your heavy old batteries with
Light Weight High Power Lithium FREE 24V SMART CHARGER with purchase of battery.
km
KM Electric 641-364-2103
Lindell Sales & Service 37236 County 56 Blvd., Cannon Falls, MN
651-258-4311 • Mark’s Cell 651-764-4084
We carry... HOULE
Aron Luchterhand Loyal, Wis. Clark County 750 cows How do you prepare your farm for a cold snap? I get any feed in ahead of time and manure out as well. Check if waterers are working. What challenges do you have with cold weather on your dairy? Freezing manure is probably the biggest challenge. How do the low temperatures change your daily routine? I wake up earlier and make sure everything is started and going and that the employees are showing up. How has the cold weather negatively affected your herd? How do you handle these situations? Milk production is down some, but I just try to keep them happy and clean. Describe the most frustrating day you experienced on the farm because of cold weather. It’s frustrating when feeding equipment doesn’t start because of gelling. That just sets the mood for the whole day. What is the best tip you’ve received about how to handle cold weather for your dairy? To move south, or to try to be prepared and keep things running. What is a must have for yourself when preparing to go out into the cold? Carhartt jacket and bibs. Tell us about your farm. My farm is a sixth-generation dairy with a double-10 herringbone parlor and 750 milking cows and 100 dry cows. All are on sand bedding. Youngstock are raised on site starting with a robotic feeder barn, then moving to greenhouse buildings. We grow our own feed and dragline our own manure. Dan Luckwaldt Woodville, Wis. St. Croix County 1,325 cows How do you prepare your farm for a cold snap? We have one day of extra TMR in front of cows. If something breaks, cows won’t go hungry. We make sure all waterers are working and dip the teats with a dry powder instead of normal liquid dip. What challenges do you have with cold weather on your dairy? We bed with recycled sand that is usually a little wet. There are frost concerns with negative 30 degree temperatures so we didn’t bed for about 10-14 days. How do the low temperatures change your daily routine? We just tried to get through without too much drama. We make sure all our employees get to work without issues, and that nobody runs out of propane or gets frostbite. We denitely do not take on any extra projects. This seemed like a short cold spell, which I think is way more manageable than ones that drag on forever. How has the cold weather negatively affected your herd? How do you handle these situations? Calves seem to be most at risk so we kept newborn calves in a calving pen instead of the calf barn until the cold passed. Describe the most frustrating day you experienced on the farm because of cold weather. We had the air hose in the wall going to a pinch valve in the milk line freeze up. Milk was going down the drain before my hauler caught the problem. It was a very expensive issue to x. What is the best tip you’ve received about how to handle cold weather for your dairy? It was really helpful having employees who knew what we were getting into and taking proactive steps to prevent herd health problems. What is a must have for yourself when preparing to go out into the cold? A heated shop to keep equipment working and thawed. Tell us about your farm. My wife, Mary, and I own the farm, which we bought from my uncle and father in the 1990s. We rely mostly on hired labor that does an outstanding job. We crop 2,300 acres to provide forages and grain for the herd. All crop harvesting and most manure application is custom hired, and my heifers are custom raised in southwst Kansas.
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 17
What’s right for you? DeLaval VMS™ V300
Big John Bedding Separator
Proven again and again to achieve 36-39.4% dry matter
A SYSTEM APPROACH
• Contributes to Improved Farm Profitability • Contributes to More Milk per Labor Hour • Contributes to Healthier Cows • Contributes to Highest Milk Quality
Systems from 90 to 10,000 cows Over 80 local installations Over 4,000 working installations worldwide
Thompson ‘TJ’ Wondor
Warehouse on Wheels
FEATURES
• SMART control panel technology • Automatic weight control arms • New HD basket with screen • Reduce bedding costs • Increase liquid storage capacity • Environmentally friendly • Readily available bedding materials on a daily basis
TJ started working at Farm Systems as a temp 14 months ago and he has now moved up to a full-time employee. His primary responsibility is as an Installation Specialist. TJ is currently expanding his knowledge and skills to include working with chemicals.
SEPARATOR
Swinging Cow Brush
“Everyday is something new. You’re always learning something and there is never a dull day.”
IF IT FITS IN OUR TRUCK, WE CAN DELIVER IT:
Designed to improve cow health, comfort and welfare – and delivers even more!
CF1000A Calf Feeders Having full control of your calf feeding can reduce health issues and increase feed intakes creating bigger, framier replacements for your future herd.
Give us a call the next time you need something delivered. We have a full line of dairy route supplies. Service for all three Genex locations, Melrose, Montgomery, & Brookings.
DeLaval calf feeder CF1000A features the most powerful computer available for calf feeding - the ALPRO® computer.
WE ARE HIRING! Proudly serving you from Brookings, SD; Montgomery, MN; and Melrose, MN. 58 Interstate Drive N.W., Melrose, MN 56352 | 800-636-5581
Page 18 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Winter poses threats to animal health
Nutrition, shelter pivotal to get through season By Jennifer Coyne jenn@dairystar.com
RINGLE, Wis. – Dairy cattle are genetically built to withstand an array of weather conditions. Through rain, sleet and snow, these animals can thrive, but only if they are provided the right resources. In the midst of winter, it is important to re-evaluate animal housing, nutrition and overall cow comfort of both youngstock and mature cattle. “It’s been a weird year with moisture, so keeping track of nutrition, housing and comfort are all important to prevent cold stress,” Heather Schlesser said. Schlesser is the dairy agent with the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension in Marathon County. Dairy animals are able to thrive in the winter when they have been appropriately prepared for the conditions. “You have to be prepared so you can react and the problems with winter don’t become compounding issues,” said Sam Zimmermann, who milks 225 registered Holsteins near Ringle, Wis. “There are some things you have to stay on top of.”
PHOTO SUBMITTED
A group of milking cows make their way to the parlor from the bedded pack at Sam Zimmermann’s dairy near Ringle, Wis. During the winter, Zimmermann’s biggest concern is frostbit teat ends because of the distance caƩle must walk outside to and from the parlor. For Zimmermann, he begins thinking of changes he has to make to the rations, housing and milking procedure well before cold weather arrives. “The cold is way less miserable if you have healthy cows,” Zimmermann said. “They do really well in the cold, in terms of milk production, if they’re given the right nutrition to maintain energy.” He considers his farm to reect a low-cost design with a three-row
freestall barn and bedded pack for the milking herd, and then another bedded pack for breeding-age heifers, close-up dry cows and pregnant animals. Far-off dry cows are outwintered. The outwintered animals have a windbreak made of silage bales for protection against the elements. He also makes sure the herd has ample water and available TMR. Likewise, the lactating groups and those housed in the bedded pack are provided plenty of feed.
“On really cold days, I feed extra so there’s feed in front of them at all times, and because when it’s this cold out it won’t spoil,” Zimmermann said. The Wisconsin farmer relies on his nutritionist to make adjustments to the ration so the cows are supplemented with enough energy. “Surround yourself with good people and manage those relationships so they can help,” Zimmermann said. Turn to WINTER | Page 20
Chop It Feed It Spread It 9524 CROP MAX
FORMULA TMR R
9126RT BOSS 9
Meyer Manufacturing Corp.
9136RT BOSS MINNESOTA A & C Farm Service, Inc. (TMR Mixer Dealer) Paynesville, MN Fluegge’s Ag, Inc. Mora, MN Gorter’s Clay & Dairy Equip. Pipestone, MN
Call or see your local dealer for complete details!
Hammell Equipment Inc. ChatÀeld, MN Eitzen, MN Harmony, MN Rushford, MN Midwest Machinery Co. (Full Line) Glencoe, MN Glenwood, MN Howard Lake, MN Princeton, MN
Midwest Machinery Co. (Forage Boxes Only) Alexandria, MN Sauk Centre, MN Werner Implement Co., Inc. Vermillion, MN Wingert Sales & Service Plainview, MN
Dorchester, WI • 800-325-9103 Visit our website!
meyermfg.com
WISCONSIN Johnson Tractor, Inc. Janesville, WI Price Equipment Sales, Inc. Bloomington, WI Ruf’s Farm Service Inc. Darlington, WI
Tractor Central Arcadia, WI Cameron, WI Chippewa Falls, WI Durand, WI Granton, WI Menomonie, WI Mondovi, WI Sheldon, WI West Salem, WI Westby, WI
IOWA Engel Agri Sales Sac City, IA SOUTH DAKOTA Pfeifer Implement Co. Sioux Falls, SD Puthhoff Repair Sales & Service, Inc. Salem, SD
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 19
Bongards’ Creameries
Has been a quality market for MN dairy farmers for over 100 years. MN producers provide one of the country’s most distinctive brands of cheese that is still made using the same Old World craftsmanship and has been combined with cutting-edge technology to produce cheese that delivers unforgettable taste with unparalleled quality. MN Dairy farmers and Bongards, quality that stands the test of time. We offer a competitive base price, premiums, and the best Àeld representatives in the industry. 13200 Co. Rd. 51 Bongards, MN 55368 (952) 466-5521 Fax (952) 466-5556 110 3rd Ave. NE Perham, MN 56573 (218) 346-4680 Fax (218) 346-4684
Save labor and money
while washing your bottles for your calf feeding.
Calf Milk Bottle Washer
Russ Pierson
SALES & SERVICE
MUELLER SALES & SERVICE Glencoe, MN • 320-864-3556 OR 888-205-0974
“... something we don’t cut ...” — Matt Nealy
NEALAND FARMS NEWVILLE, PENNSYLVANIA The Nealy family 400 cows: 92 lbs/cow/day 130-180,000 SCC “What I like best about Udder Comfort™ is really two things that are related: The removal of swelling and how that helps with cell counts. Since installing the Udder Comfort Spray Gun a year ago, the product gets used more because it is easy and fast to grab the gun and spray it on. But at the same time, the spray gun is more efficient, using 30 to 50% less spray per application. So, we’re getting even better results now and more savings at the same time,” says Matt Nealy. He and his father Steve, cousin Tommy and uncle Tom operate the third generation Nealand Farms, milking 400 cows near Newville, Pennsylvania. Matt is the ‘cow guy’ but says that everyone does everything here. “Udder Comfort is something we don’t cut when times are tough. Getting the swelling out faster means better milkouts earlier and higher quality milk.
“In addition to doing every fresh cow for a week, we mark our high-count cows on DHIA and do them too. We tried the knock-offs, but they didn’t work. We get the best results from Udder Comfort.”
Quality Udders Make Quality Milk
Keep the milk in the system 1.888.773.7153 1.613.652.9086 uddercomfort.com Call to locate a distributor near you. For external application to the udder only after milking, as an essential component of udder management. Always wash and dry teats thoroughly before milking.
Page 20 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Sign up for our newsletter
Dairy St r Milk Break A weekly electronic e-mail with dairy tidbits from throughout the industry.
DAIRY ST R Email andrea.b@dairystar.com to sign up.
Let us help with your next agricultural building!
Whether you call it a pole barn, shed, pre-engineered wood and metal building, or a post-frame structure, Wick Buildings and our local builders will do it right.
ConƟnued from WINTER | Page 18 Having a well-balanced ration is the most important tool farmers can use to keep their herd healthy in the winter months, Schlesser said. “Those animals have to have extra energy and access to water,” she said. “For cattle outwintered, yes they will get some water from the snow on the ground, but it’s not enough. It takes too much energy to melt the snow into water and takes away from other functions.” With this winter’s mild start and then harsh storms coming and going throughout the season, dairy farmers need to be diligent about maintaining the animals’ environment, Schlesser said. “We have to make sure those cows are comfortable,” she said. For outwintered livestock, chapped teats and mobility on ice and snow are the greatest concerns. Inside, ice build up can be an issue near the waterers, but it may be more common to deal with respiratory issues caused by inadequate ventilation. If the cows have to walk a distance from the parlor to the barn, frostbite is also a danger. “Frostbit teats are really my only concern, other than how the calves are doing,” said Zimmermann who uses a powder teat dip in the winter as the cows walk a short distance outside from one facility to the other. For youngstock, the most troubles occur due to the cold. At 2 percent body fat or less, calves do not generate enough energy to maintain themselves and also promote growth unless their diet is changed. Many dairy farmers combat this issue by increasing the amount of milk the calves consume in a day – either by giving more milk at each feeding or
feeding more frequently. “Making sure those calves are getting enough calories is the biggest concern, especially for calves in hutches,” Schlesser said. “For those housed in a barn, we’re worried about issues with ventilation, such as respiratory stress or pneumonia.” Both calves and cows under cold stress will gather in groups, and may hunch up and shiver. If the circumstances continue, a decrease in body condition score is noticed, as well as a drop in milk production. “Prepare for the worst case scenario,” Schlesser said. “Make sure the herd has access to shelter.” Dry, clean bedding also helps mitigate cold stress. Schlesser suggests using straw in place of wood shavings for calves and adding straw to sand-bedded stalls for the milking herd. In doing this, the straw acts as an insulated base to prevent freezing. “Make sure you’re looking at your bedding type and what will best for the animals,” Schlesser said. For Zimmermann’s outwintered group, he beds with large straw bales. “I spread out the bale a little bit and then let the animals do what they do,” said Zimmermann, emphasizing the importance of having a clean bedding source. While working through the winter may pose challenges in all aspects of the dairy, it is far more benecial to make adjustments before pitfalls become apparent in the health of the cattle. “With the milk prices, there’s not cash around to take care of things as maybe we should and that’s a challenge,” Zimmermann said. “But, we can’t afford to not play offense.”
GENERATORS for small to large dairies.
• Dairy • Equipment Storage & Multi-use • Livestock Confinement • Crop & Bulk Materials Storage
TROUBLE WITH YOUR SILO? We Can Help!
WE REPLACE: Augers • Gear boxes • Blowers • Collector rings • Electric motors We provide great service at reasonable cost!
BELT CONVEYORS • BELT FEEDERS HYDRAULIC MANURE PUMPS We Sell, Install and Service
Over 200 units currently on hand … 30kw up to 1000kw. Call Jay for your generator needs.
712-348-7119
PEAK LOAD SHAVING COMPLIANT UNITS AVAILABLE.
“We have had the generator for about 1 year and so far it has been trouble free! It is important that it is reliable and so far it has been just that!”
- Jeremy VanEss
The Best Service Crews, The Best Replacement Parts, The Best Service... That’s The Osakis Silo Advantage To You!!!
Call Anytime
320-808-3936 300 E Main St., Osakis, MN • 320-859-5340
24 Hours 7 Days A Week
Visit us online at www.osakissilo.com
HoÁand Enterprises Inc.
3189 Silver Ave., Sanborn, IA 51248 • corner of Hwy.18 and 59 South
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 21
LOW RATE FINANCING AVAILABLE See our complete inventory with pictures and descriptions at:
www.mmcjd.com
Visit one of our 17 locations in Central Minnesota! (1) = GLENCOE 320-864-5571 4561 Hwy. 212
(2) = HOWARD LAKE 320-543-2170 5845 Keats Ave. SW
(3) = STEWART
JD 455, 2018, 25’ drill, 6” spacing, , #150886
320-562-2630 78412 Co. Rd. 20
(5) = GLENWOOD 320-634-5151 1710 N. Franklin
(6) = SAUK CENTRE 320-352-6511 1140 Centre St.
(7) = ALEXANDRIA 320-763-4220 5005 Co. Rd. 82 SE
(8) = PAYNESVILLE 320-243-7474 725 Lake Ave. S.
(9) = PRINCETON
763-389-3453 3708 Baptist Church Rd.
(10) = LITTLE FALLS 320-632-5469 16069 Hwy. 27 E.
(11) = WADENA 218-631-2311 62505 US Hwy. 10
(12) = AITKIN 218-927-2140 1120 2nd St. NW
(13) = BAXTER 218-829-5356 7045 Foley Rd.
(14) = ELBOW LAKE 218-685-4438 110 2nd St. NE
(15) = MORRIS 320-589-2011 23604 State Hwy. 9
(16) = BENSON 320-843-2610 380 Atlantic Ave.
(17) = MADISON 320-598-7575 516 1st St. E
AIR DRILL AND SEEDER 14 JD 1990, 2011, #155512..............................................................................$68,500 BOX DRILLS 5 JD 455, 1999, Width: 30, Spacing: 7.5”, #150258 .........................................$18,900 11 JD 455, 2018, Configuration: Folding, Width: 30, Spacing: 7.5”, #143110 ....$63,900 11 JD 8300, Width: 13, Spacing: 10”, #150084 ...................................................$3,300 8 JD 455, 2018, Configuration: Folding, Width: 25, Spacing: 6”, #150886 .......$58,900 FIELD CULTIVATORS 4 JD 2210, 2008, 60 ft, 3-Section Folding, #146682 ......................................$34,500 4 JD 960, 1994, 36 ft, 3-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #148486 ..........$7,500 10 JD 960, 1994, 26 ft, #148845 .........................................................................$5,500 10 JD 1010, 31 ft, #150876 ................................................................................$2,825 10 JD 1010, 25.5 ft, 3-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #151724...............$3,495 17 JD 2210, 2013, 51 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #146726 ......$57,500 17 JD 980, 1995, #155787 ..................................................................................$9,500 7 JD 960, 1988, 44 ft, Standards: C-Shank, #150157 ........................................$7,215 6 JD 980, 1996, 41 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #148488 ........$14,500 1 JD 960, 1993, 33 ft, 3-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #154535 ..........$6,500 1 JD 2210, 2011, #155650..............................................................................$29,900 1 Case IH 690, 2014, #155651 .......................................................................$18,900 1 Case IH TIGERMATE 200, 2013, #155652...................................................$33,000 15 Case IH 4800, #155715.................................................................................$5,100 15 JD 2210, 2007, #155792..............................................................................$30,500 16 JD 980, 1995, 45 ft, 5-Section Folding, #145326.........................................$14,000 16 Case IH TIGERMATE 200, 2012, 42 ft, Standards: C-Shank, #151915 .......$44,500 16 Case IH TIGERMATE 200, 2014, 60 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #154507 ......................................................................................................$59,400 16 Case IH TIGERMATE 200, 2014, 60 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #154510 ......................................................................................................$59,400 16 Case IH TIGERMATE 200, 2014, 60 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #154511 .......................................................................................................$59,400 5 JD 980, 1997, #155850 ................................................................................$11,500 11 JD 2210, 2010, 50.5 ft, 5-Section Folding, #146707 ...................................$49,500 11 JD 980, 1997, 26 ft, 3-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #151565 ..........$9,900 8 DMI Tigermate, 48 ft, #147786..................................................................$14,500 8 JD 2210, 2009, 53 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #154393 ......$48,000 8 JD 2210, 2014, 55.5 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #154394 ...$58,500 8 JD 2210, 2009, 50.5 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #154537 ...$43,500 14 JD 980, 1997, 44 ft, #145571 .......................................................................$16,500 14 JD 2210, 2007, 58 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #151055 ......$32,900 14 JD 980, 1997, 26 ft, 3-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #153320 ..........$9,900 14 JD 2210, 2009, 54 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #153415 ......$42,500 3 JD 2210, 2012, 55 ft, 5-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #148753 ......$54,900 3 JD 980, 1994, 33 ft, 3-Section Folding, Standards: C-Shank, #151027 ........$12,000 PACKER 16 Summers Packer, 2007, #146356 ..............................................................$13,750 PLANTERS: DRAWN 4 JD 1765, 2015, 12R30, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: 3.0 Bushel, #138495 .......................................................................................................$69,500 4 JD 1775NT, 2017, 16R30, Frame: Flex Fold, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: Central Fill System, Row Command, #150734 ............... $152,500 4 JD 1775NT, 2018, 16R30, Frame: Flex Fold, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: Central Fill System, Row Command, #150736 .............................. $169,000 17 JD 1765, 2015, #155243..............................................................................$54,500 7 JD 1760, 1997, 12R3, Frame: Wing Fold, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: 3.0 Bushel, #137790........................................................................$28,050 7 JD 7000, 1981, 12R30, Metering System: Finger Pickup, Hopper: 1.6 Bushel, #149569 ........................................................................................................$7,215 7 White 8180, 2004, #154647 .......................................................................$29,500 7 JD DB60, 2015, #155825 .......................................................................... $172,500 6 Great Plains YP2425, 2007, 24R30, Frame: Flex Fold, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: Central Fill System, #152236 ..........................................................$65,000 15 JD DB66, 2008, #155284 .......................................................................... $139,900
32,900
JD 2210, 2009, $ 3 section, #151598
JD 1775NT, 2018, 16R30, #140328
149,500
39,000
Great Plains YP-1625, $ 32 row twin-row planter, #150539
$
Over 1200 items with pictures updated daily • Go to www.mmcjd.com
(4) = ST. CLOUD 320-252-2010 1035 35th Ave. NE
58,900
$
Case IH Tigermate 200, 2014, 60’ Äeld cultivator, $ 6” spacing, #154511
16 JD DB44, 2014, 24R22, Frame: Flex Fold, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: Central Fill System, Row Command, #151691 .............................. $159,000 11 JD 1775NT, 2018, 16R30, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: Central Fill System, Row Command, #140328 .......................................................................... $149,500 11 JD 1750, 1999, 6R30, Frame: Rigid, Metering System: Finger Pickup, #153700 .......................................................................................................$19,800 11 White 6100, #155671...................................................................................$5,000 8 Wil-Rich 24-22, 2009, 24R22, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: 1.6 Bushel, Row Command, #139224 .............................................................................$49,500 8 Case IH 900, 12R30 in, #150606 ...................................................................$8,900 8 JD 1760, 2012, 12R30, Frame: Flex Fold, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: 3.0 Bushel, #154220........................................................................$54,500 14 JD DB44, 2004, 24R22, Frame: Flex Fold, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: Central Fill System, #154547 ...........................................................$56,000 14 Kinze, 2000, #155343..................................................................................$15,540 14 JD 1780, 1999, #155446..............................................................................$33,500 PLANTERS: INTEGRAL 17 JD 7300, 1988, Row Spacing: 22 in, Frame: Wing Fold, Hopper: 1.6 Bushel, #148843 .......................................................................................................$14,600 6 White 5100, #155511 ...................................................................................$6,700 8 JD DR24, 2018, 24R22, Metering System: Vacuum, Hopper: Central Fill System, Row Command, #150773 .......................................................................... $179,500 PULL-TYPE SPRAYERS 4 Hardi NAV 1100, #137543..........................................................................$14,000 4 Raven 1000 Gallon, #149597 ......................................................................$6,100 2 Hardi RANGER 2000, 2014, #155294 .........................................................$20,500 10 Fast 7400, #130185 ....................................................................................$18,900 10 Top Air 60, #140416......................................................................................$5,000 10 Redball 580, 2006, #151074 ......................................................................$18,900 7 Summers ULTIMATE 120, 2012, #155256 .................................................$27,900 15 Wil-Rich Blumha, #148336..........................................................................$5,500 15 Top Air TA1200, 2008, #155358 .................................................................$16,650 5 Hardi COMMANDER 1200, 2004, #148536 ................................................$19,900 5 Hardi Commander 1200, 2002, #150043 .................................................$14,900 5 Wil-Rich 500 GAL, #150604 .........................................................................$6,000 14 Summers 500, 1996, #145350 .....................................................................$4,500 ROLLER 5 Harms LR45, 2012, #155414 ...................................................................... $16,900 ROLLING BASKETS 7 Wil-Rich RP53, 2014, #146687...................................................................$14,500 7 Unverferth 1225, 2004, #150158 ................................................................$9,990 14 Unverferth 75, 2014, #153251 ....................................................................$6,660 SELF-PROPELLED SPRAYERS 4 JD R4038, 201, Boom Width: 120-Foot, Boom Leveling, Tank: Stainless, Nozzle Spacing: 20 in, 289 hrs., #141223................................................... $329,500 15 JD 4940, 2014, 1754 hrs., #155452 .......................................................... $199,500 16 JD 4830, 2013, Boom Width: 90-Foot, Boom Leveling, Tank: Stainless, Hydraulic Tread Adjust, Traction Control, Nozzle Spacing: 20 in, 1423 hrs., #150080 $169,500 16 RoGator 664, 1994, Boom Width: 60-Foot, 4300 hrs., #150044..................$23,900 16 Case IH 4430, 2013, Boom Leveling, Tank: Stainless, Tire Width: Narrow, Guidance-ready, 2655 hrs., #154198 ......................................................... $209,500 8 JD R4038, 2018, Boom Width: 120-Foot, Nozzle Spacing: 20 in, 490 hrs., #150887 .................................................................................................... $339,000 14 JD R4038, 2017, Hydraulic Tread Adjust, Guidance-ready, 508 hrs., #143961 .................................................................................................... $346,500 14 JD R4038, 2018, 100 hrs., #155379 .......................................................... $340,200 UTILITY TRACTORS 4 JD 5115M, 2018, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Tire Width: Mid, Loader, 175 hrs., #143684 ..................$78,900 4 JD 6135E, 2016, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Tire Width: Wide, 195 hrs., #142599.............................................................$71,900 4 JD 6130M, 2018, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Tire Width: Mid, 208 hrs., #143700 ..............................$94,900
59,400
4 4 4 4 4 4 2 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 17 17 6 6 12 12 15 15 15 15 15 5 11 11 11 11 8 8 8 14 14 14 14
137,900
JD 9530, 2008, $ 4162 hrs., #147940
JD 5100E, 2018, 233 hrs., #143682 .............................................................$65,900 JD 5115M, 2018, 304 hrs., #143686 ............................................................$78,900 JD 6120E, 2018, 100 hrs., #143694 .............................................................$79,500 JD 6135E, 2018, 100 hrs., #143696 .............................................................$84,900 JD 6135E, 2018, 100 hrs., #143698 .............................................................$84,900 JD 5115M, 2018, 100 hrs., #143690 ............................................................$71,900 JD 6125R, 2014, 779 hrs., #155293 .............................................................$67,500 JD 6130R, 2016, Configuration: Narrow, Cab, Partial Power Shift, Guidance-ready, MFWD, Tire Width: Mid, 160 hrs., #124987 ........................$96,900 JD 6120E, 2016, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Tire Width: Mid, 259 hrs., #124310 ...............................................................$69,500 JD 6135E, 2016, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540, Tire Width: Mid, Loader, 131 hrs., #124870............................................................................$76,900 JD 6120E, 2016, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540, Tire Width: Wide, Loader, 222 hrs., #124867............................................................................$69,500 JD 6130M, 2016, Configuration: Narrow, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Loader, 195 hrs., #124993............................................$99,500 JD 5065M, 2012, Partial Power Shift, 2WD, Rear PTO: 540, 4975 hrs., #151388 .......................................................................................................$21,900 Farmall Super C, 2WD, Rear PTO: 540, #151487...........................................$3,500 JD 6420, 2002, 6900 hrs., #154564 .............................................................$52,500 JD 6110R, 2017, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, Guidance-ready, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Tire Width: Wide, Loader, 364 hrs., #144495 ...$99,500 JD 6110R, 2017, Configuration: Standard, Cab, IVT, Guidance-ready, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Tire Width: Mid, 257 hrs., #144497 ..............................$97,900 JD 6135E, 2016, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Tire Width: Narrow, 258 hrs., #142600..........................................................$74,900 JD 6130R, 2016, Cab, Partial Power Shift, Guidance-ready, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Tire Width: Mid, 340 hrs., #142596 ..............................$99,500 JD 6120M, 2016, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Tire Width: Narrow, 116 hrs., #141879 .........................$92,900 JD 5115M, 2017, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540, 540/1000, Tire Width: Mid, 130 hrs., #140105 ...............................................................$71,900 JD 6110R, 2016, Cab, IVT, MFWD, 338 hrs., #144500 ...................................$95,900 JD 6130R, 2016, Configuration: Standard, Cab, IVT, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, 539 hrs., #144507...................................................................................... $109,500 JD 6110M, 2016, Configuration: Narrow, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, 292 hrs., #144493 ........................................................$79,500 JD 6130R, 2017, Configuration: Standard, Cab, IVT, MFWD w/ Suspension, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Tire Width: Mid, 403 hrs., #144505 ........................... $109,500 JD 5100E, 2016, Cab, Power Reverser, MFWD, 2075 hrs., #149334 ..............$46,900 JD 5100E, 2016, Cab, Power Reverser, MFWD, 1971 hrs., #145220 ..............$46,900 JD 6110R, 2017, Cab, IVT, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, 345 hrs., #142813 .......................................................................................................$99,500 JD 5115M, 2016, Cab, Power Reverser, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Loader, 290 hrs., #149192.........................................................................................$79,500 JD 6135E, 2016, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540, Tire Width: Wide, 62 hrs., #142602 ........................................$72,900 JD 5065E, 2015, 200 hrs., #155407 .............................................................$30,000 JD 6130R, 2017, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Loader, 156 hrs., #147778......................................... $109,500 JD 6130R, 2015, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, Guidance-ready, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Tire Width: Wide, 262 hrs., #142595 ................$99,500 Massey Ferguson 3545, 1983, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Tire Width: Mid, 4279 hrs., #151182 ............................$19,500 JD 6110R, 2017, Cab, Partial Power Shift, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Loader, 100 hrs., #144496.........................................................................................$99,500 JD 6110R, 2017, Cab, IVT, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Loader, 100 hrs., #144499 .................................................................................................... $104,900 JD 6130R, 2017, Configuration: Narrow, Cab, IVT, Guidance-ready, MFWD, 213 hrs., #144504 ................................................................................................... $106,900 JD 6130R, 2017, Configuration: Standard, Cab, Partial Power Shift, Guidance-ready, MFWD, Rear PTO: 540/1000, Tire Width: Wide, 150 hrs., #144503 ...............$99,500
141,900
JD 6155R, 2017, $ 341 hrs., #144512
Page 22 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Blue Hilltop, Inc. Your Mixer, Spreader, Hay Processor Headquarters We carry:
www.rotomix.com
LLC
BUNKER SILO •• H-Bunks Fenceline
Bunks • 115 Bu. Steer Stuffer • Individual Yard Bunks Backed by over 40 years proven experience!
Dana Berreau
PRECAST SYSTEMS
Box 116, Lake Wilson, MN 56151
1-888-693-8440 • www.darwinconcrete.com
507-879-3593 / 800-821-7092
Hwy. 12, Darwin, MN 55324
4 good reasons +
Superior teat skin conditioning
+
Great visibility
+
Mastitis control equivalent to the best Iodine teat dips
+
Reliable, consistent, safe and easy to use
www.delaval.com
Contact one of the following dealers to learn more: IOWA Kramer Bros. Monticello, IA 319-465-5931 Prairie Land Ag Supply Inc. Rock Valley, IA 712-476-9290 United-Suckow Dairy Supply West Union, IA 563-422-5355 Postville, IA 563-864-7417
WISCONSIN Advanced Dairy/Bob’s Dairy Supply Spring Valley, WI 715-772-3201 Ederer Dairy Supply Plain, WI 608-546-3713 Joe’s Refrigeration Inc. Withee, WI 715-229-2321 Mlsna Dairy Supply Inc. Cashton, WI 608-654-5106 Professional Dairy Services Waunakee, WI 608-849-5043
Mondovi Dairy Systems Inc. Mondovi, WI 715-926-5777 West Salem, WI 608-769-2113 The Scharine Group Inc. Whitewater, WI 800 472-2880 Mt Horeb, WI 800-872-3470 MINNESOTA & SOUTH DAKOTA D&D Ag Supply Pennock, MN 320-599-4466
East Central Dairy Supply Mora, MN 320-679-1029 Farm Systems Melrose, MN 320-256-3276 Watertown, MN 605-886-7401 Sioux Falls, SD 800-284-0015 S&S Dairy System LLC St. Charles, MN 507-932-4288 Professional Dairy Systems Wadena, MN 218-632-5416
is a registered trademark of Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A. and “DeLaval” is a registered trade/servicemark of DeLaval Holding AB © 2019 DeLaval Inc. DeLaval, 11100 North Congress Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri 64153-1296. www.delaval.com
Not another chance It has been two months since we ran our rst cows through our robots Dec. 4. Time has own by. In fact, I often mention it like a time warp when we come to the barn every day. I look at my phone when I get outside, and then before I know it, it is noon. I have actually put an alarm on my phone to remember to stop for lunch or else the day is gone, and I have forgotten to eat. In the beginning, I was still getting up at 3:50, as I had when I was milking in the tiestall barn. I would come and fetch cows, and push them through the robots. I soon began to notice that some of the cows would be waiting for me to bring them to By Tina Hinchley the robots. Several would give me a good morning Farmer & Columnist “moo” in the old barn and would wait by the robots but refuse to go into the robot on their own. There they stood leaking milk, obviously needing to be milked, just wanting the comfort of me being there to show them the way. I did that for one week or so, and then slowly weaned them to go in on their own. That was simple. I slept in. They realized quickly that comfort was something that came from the robot and not me. And for me, comfort was being able to sleep in a little longer, or use that time for myself to do laundry or the other things that busy farm moms do not get to do as often as they want. When I do get to the barn, there is always a list of cows to fetch. Some days more cows than others depending on what time I walk in and make my list. I nd it satisfying when I approach a cow that needs to come in to be milked and she is aware and starts to get up. I tend to think they feel guilty walking with their heads held low as they slowly head towards the robot. Other cows head butt them as if almost to say “You are busted.” It is really a great feeling for me when the girls nally are not on the list anymore. They are trained. We always have some on the list due to heifers calving and other new cows that we have purchased and are adding to our herd. The new heifers from our herd had been bred when they were about 13 months or so. We have 20 heifers to calve in February. When their dams were being bred, we were only dreaming of a new barn with robots. So back then, our focus on our herd’s improvements were on feet and legs, not so much on teat length and placement on the udder. To date, we have marketed only one heifer that had teats as narrow as my pinky nger. The milk inations would not attach because of loss of suction. We were not going to switch to a smaller size ination for one animal, so she left the herd. I have another heifer, named Chance, that has short, fat teats. I have had to personally hold up the inations as the robot is attaching them to get them to latch onto her teats until she has let down. Since the rst milking she is getting more frustrated with the whole process and has begun to kick and fuss. So my husband, Duane, has to help, too. We have to rub her tail head, because we cannot use a kicker on her or tail her. I feel her pain and anxiety every time she comes into the robot. If it does not attach and it times out, she gets released and has to return to do it all again. By the time she is nished, I am sweating from head to toe. I am hopeful she is feeling relief, but it is a lot for her to relax and letting down her milk has been difcult. She is eight days fresh, and I will need to see some improvement soon, or she will have to be the next one to leave because she is having a hard time adjusting to the robots. This is one time I wish I could take her back to the tiestall barn and milk her there. In this month, I am hoping to not have another Chance. But truthfully, for the rest of the heifers and new cows, it is an easy adjustment. Tina Hinchley, her husband, Duane, and their daughters, Anna and Catherine, milk 240 registered Holsteins with robots. They also farm 2,300 acres of crops near Cambridge, Wisconsin. They have been hosting farm tours for over 20 years.
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 23
Life lessons learned on the wrestling mat
Mlsna shares passion by coaching youth By Danielle Nauman danielle.n@dairystar.com
CASHTON, Wis. – Tyler Mlsna has spent his life being both an athlete as well as a dairy farmer, and he does not plan to quit either anytime soon. Mlsna milks 120 cows with his family on their 250acre farm – Cannon-Hills Dairy, LLC – near Cashton, Wis. The Mlsnas farm a total of 500 acres. The family also maintains a 100-cow beef herd. His wife, Jessica, works off the farm, and the couple has three children: Rylan, 8, Zoe, 7, and Porter, 2. Two years ago, Mlsna went back to his roots; taking over coaching the Cashton Youth Wrestling program, which involves about 40 kids, from ages 4 through fth grade. Prior to that, he had spent six seasons helping coach the high school’s wrestling team, a program which he is also an alumnus of. A wrestler himself since the age of 5, Mlsna is passing the tradition on to his son Rylan who is now in his second year of youth wrestling. Mlsna
said his father was somewhat involved in Cashton’s youth wrestling in the rst years of its existence. However, his dad made certain to get his three sons involved with the program at an early age, beginning the wrestling tradition in the Mlsna family. In addition to his own son, Mlsna also has three nephews involved in the youth wrestling program. “He’s really starting to take a liking to it,” Mlsna said of Rylan. “He’s always been super-competitive, but now he’s learning to calm down when he loses and try to understand what went wrong and how he can improve on it.” Mlsna said he knew he had his son hooked in sharing his life-long passion at a youth wrestling tournament in nearby Melrose, Wis. “He won his rst match and then got a stinger in his shoulder and ended up fourth place in the tournament,” Mlsna said. “Afterwards, he said that fourth place wasn’t good enough, and he wouldn’t be fourth again.” One of his proudest moments, both as a coach and as a dad, was last spring when Rylan got his rst champions chart, winning their home tournament in Cashton. Coaching youth wrestling, particularly with a wide age-range, is not without its challenges, according to
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Tyler Mlsna watches as two young athletes compete in a wrestling tournament. Mlsna is in his second year serving as the head coach of the Cashton Youth Wrestling program. Mlsna. “Communicating with a 4-year-old is a very different from communicating with a 10-year-old,” Mlsna said. “The older kids usually understand and respond to the emotions and the urgency that come
through in your voice while they are in a match or even during practice. The 4-year-old would probably shut down and start to cry.” The youth wrestling club begins its season in early January, practicing
twice a week and attending tournaments around the area nearly every weekend. During each hour-long practice, Mlsna focuses on honing in basic skills and presents one or two Turn to MLSNA | Page 25
Page 24 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 25
ConƟnued from MLSNA | Page 25 new skills each week. Mlsna said repetition is the key to achieving success in mastering the skills and moves needed in wrestling, and he uses each practice as a building-block from the previous session. Mlsna enjoys watching when a young grappler who might be struggling with concepts and techniques nally reaches the moment of understanding in the skill they are working on. “Seeing that moment when the light switches on and they gure it out, after working really hard at it is really gratifying as a coach,” Mlsna said. At the youth level, Mlsna does not put a lot of focus on conditioning, outside of running, sit-ups and push-ups to warm up; or the nutritional aspects of preparing for competition. He does advocate the kids do not consume a lot of candy or soda during the day at their tournaments, but he does plant the seeds that successful wrestlers work hard on and off the mats preparing themselves for competition. “On the wall of our wrestling room are the names of high-school state qualiers,” Mlsna said. “I always point them out to the kids and tell them that working just a little harder is what can help them get on that wall someday. Things like doing 11 push-ups instead of 10, trying to drive home that the little things can make the big difference in
DANIELLE NAUMAN/DAIRY STAR
Tyler Mlsna milks 120 cows on his family’s farm in Monroe County near Cashton, Wis. the end. I encourage healthy eating, with lots of vegetables, but that usually gets dirty looks from kids.” Coaching youth wrestling comes with a substantial time commitment, one that can
sometimes be daunting while running a dairy farm, but Mlsna has learned to budget and schedule his time to accommodate practices and tournaments. “You know ahead of time
when practices are and when and where the tournaments are,” Mlsna said. “I just schedule my chores to be done ahead of time before practices, and I know when I have to get up earlier on weekends to
get the chores done in time to leave. We’re usually headed home from tournaments by around 2 p.m., and can get home and nish up anything that might be left.” Of the tournaments that Mlsna’s family participates in, the only one that requires an overnight stay is the state tournament in Madison, Wis. He calls in family friends to help ll in for him during chores in that occasion. The tournaments attended by the Cashton Youth Wrestlers have 300 to 500 wrestlers competing throughout the day. While at tournaments, Mlsna makes an attempt to be present mat-side for all of his wrestlers’ matches, but sometimes nds it hard to accommodate the schedules with multiple matches happening simultaneously. “The only thing is, I won’t miss my own son’s matches,” Mlsna said. “But all of my wrestlers and parents seem to understand that. I encourage parents to get involved during practices, learning so they are able to coach their wrestlers if I’m not.” For Mlsna, wrestling is an outlet for the daily stress of dairy farming during the winter. In the warmer months, he enjoys hunting and shing. “Even though there are 300-plus screaming kids at the tournaments, I’m right at home at the wrestling tournaments,” Mlsna said. “It’s a mental getaway from farming for me.”
Page 26 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Updated deadlines for FSA programs, livestock losses I speak for all FSA employees when I say it is good to be back at work carrying out our mission of serving our area producers and ranchers. Because of the partial government shutdown, the United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency has announced several program deadline extensions. - Market Facilitation FSA News & Notes Program: Deadline has been moved to Thursday, Feb. 14. You must have Part D signed by this deadline to participate and receive benets. - Marketing Assistance Loans: If the loan matured on Dec. 31, 2018, the new settlement date has been extended to Feb. 14. Any By Ryan Brunn MAL that matured on Jan. Stearns Co. Exec. Dir. 31 needed to be paid in full by that date as there was no extension for those loans. - Emergency Assistance Livestock, Honey Bees and Farm-raised Fish Program: Notice of losses must be led by Feb. 14. - Livestock Indemnity Program: Notice of losses must be led by Feb. 14. - Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program: 2019 applications for coverage for those crops that were due during the partial government shutdown are now due Feb. 14. Applications for payment for 2018 covered losses are also due Feb. 14. - Tree Assistance Program: Notice of losses must be led by Feb. 14. - Acreage reporting: For those crops with an acreage reporting deadline that was within the partial government shutdown are now due Feb. 14. With the recent extreme cold weather we have experienced, I wanted to remind producers of the Livestock Indemnity Program and how FSA could possibly assist you in mitigating these losses. LIP provides assistance to eligible producers for livestock deaths in excess of normal mortality caused by adverse weather, disease and attacks by animals reintroduced into the wild by the federal government or protected by federal law. LIP compensates livestock owners and contract growers for livestock death losses in excess of normal mortality due to adverse weather, including losses due to hurricanes, oods, blizzards, wildres, extreme heat or extreme cold. For disease losses, FSA county committees can accept veterinarian certications that livestock deaths were directly related to adverse weather and unpreventable through good animal husbandry and management. For 2019 livestock losses, eligible livestock owners must le a notice of loss within 30 calendar days of when the loss is rst apparent. Participants must provide the proof of death documentation, copy of grower’s contact and proof of normal mortality documentation to a FSA ofce no later than 90 calendar days after the end of the calendar year in which the eligible loss condition occurred. If you suffered livestock losses during the recent extremely low temperatures, le a notice of loss with your county ofce as soon as possible. You should also start compiling your 2019 inventory records, keep detailed records of the losses you suffered and keep any receipts from rendering trucks, etc., that will help prove your losses. Additional information about LIP is available at a FSA ofce or online at http://www.fsa.usda. gov. Farm Service Agency is an Equal Opportunity Lender. Complaints about discrimination should be sent to: Secretary of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. 20250. Visit the Farm Service Agency Web site at: www.fsa.usda.gov/ for necessary application forms and updates on USDA programs.
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 27
The challenge of nding balance The Transition Pen
By John Rosenhammer & Laura Scholtz Father/Daughter Farming Duo Another frigid January has come and gone. By now I am sure all of us have slipped on the ice, gotten our wet gloves stuck to a frosty gate or door knob, cursed as the tractor tires start spinning as we attempted going uphill, bounced around in a skidloader trying to break loose frozen manure, and wondered why we do this job as we chip the ice off a frozen water fountain at least once. It certainly takes resilience to keep climbing out of bed each morning, feel the cold air sting our cheeks, and walk into the barn hoping our accomplishments today will lead to a better tomorrow. As I warm up with a mug of hot apple cider, I think of how lucky I was last January to escape the tundra for a few days and enjoy Hawaii with my husband, Chris. I am grateful we took advantage of our freedom before becoming parents. We rented a Jeep, drove along the coastline and all the way to the top of Mount Haleakala. Zip-lining, snorkeling, a dinner cruise, whale watching, walking along the beaches, watching sunsets, swimming, touring Pearl Harbor and simply enjoying the breath-taking paradise lled our days. Now, my days are spent trying to nd balance. Trying to balance motherhood and working is a challenge. Trying to balance being a wife and mother is a challenge. Trying to balance my mind between focusing on work and focusing on Morgan is a challenge. I am amazed how this little baby girl truly does run my schedule. One of my rst mornings back on the farm, my dad mentioned wanting to leave to attend a ceremony. I assured him I could handle things just ne on my own, and he left me a short to-do list. First, I checked on a slow fresh cow. I heard the ping of a DA through my stethoscope and called the vet. While I waited for the vet, I got several other tasks done. Finally, the vet came for surgery. As I assisted her, my babysitter texted me saying Morgan already guzzled all of the milk I had sent along. This meant the rest of my to-do list would have to wait. As soon as surgery was complete, I rushed to pick up Morgan and kept her content. Another time, I forgot to restock my diaper bag and had to run to the house and show my mom where I stashed my reserve supplies. In December, I had both Morgan and myself dressed and ready for a road trip. I paused to change her diaper before putting her in the car seat. In a rush, I took off my coat and laid her on it. She proceeded to sneeze, pee on my coat and poop all over her clothes before I could get a new diaper on. I now have a better understanding of why moms are always running late. Caring for a newborn around the clock is exhausting. Besides this, no one prepared me for mom brain. This state of mind is when you are so busy thinking about your baby’s needs that you cannot focus on the conversation at dinner, you cannot remember what your husband told you the day before, and your brain
ABRAHAM’S FARM REPAIR r Call us fo & New ts s U ed Par
WE CAN REPAIR YOUR SILOS AND UNLOADERS
Bill Abraham - Over 20 years experience
320-864-6821 Leave message
simply does not work as quickly as it did before you earned the title of mom. I admit I am having a difcult time accepting this as my new normal. Being able to think on my feet was one of my strengths, and I miss the condence it gave me. I feel like I cannot give dairy farming 100 percent effort because I simply do not have it in me right now. At my postpartum check-up, I discussed how my life had changed so quickly and dramatically with my doctor. She told me I must nd time for myself. I must do something simply because I want to. I must strive to do what makes me feel like me. I did not know how to take this. She assured me it was not a selsh action and an order. As a mom, I feel such guilt leaving Morgan with a sitter while I work because I love bonding with her. How can I leave her with someone so I can have fun? I absolutely love being a mom, yet even with a very content baby, it is no easy job. Incorporating my
hobbies of exercising, cooking, baking and going on adventures into my new lifestyle is something I am determined to do. I set up a sledding play date with a few of our friends and their children. At the end of the afternoon, I still had not ridden in the sled, as I had been busy taking care of Morgan. When someone offered to hold her while Chris pulled me around, I jumped at the chance. Screaming in the sled as he jumped drifts and spun circles made me feel like me again, seeking adventure and being active. Slowly, but surely, I am making progress on nding balance. “The act of balancing motherhood, and a career, and being a wife is something that I don’t think I’ll ever perfect, but I love the challenge of it.”– Kerri Walsh, professional beach volleyball player. Laura Scholtz farms with her father, John Rosenhammer, and uncle, Greg, on Roseview Dairy near Sleepy Eye, Minn. They milk 200 Holsteins and run 580 acres of cropland.
Page 28 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
www.extension.umn.edu/dairy
Luciano Caixeta lcaixeta@umn.edu 612-625-3130
Managing dairy cattle in cold weather
Hugh Chester-Jones chest001@umn.edu 507-835-3622
In the last week of January, we experienced some of the coldest temperatures we have felt in a long time. Many schools and businesses closed their doors until the cold passed. What about you? Farmers do not get to take a snow or frigid weather day from caring for their livestock. As we look back on a couple of weeks ago, we need to think about what went well when keeping our animals safe and well-cared for during the storm and cold spell. We also need to see what we can do to prepare for the next time the thermometer takes a nose dive. Our cattle work to maintain a constant core body temperature of about 101 degrees Fahrenheit. During the winter months, this need for cattle to maintain their core body temperature becomes a challenge and can cause cold stress. By Karen Johnson Cold stress in cattle is when their body temperature drops because their body’s natural metabolic processes plus the heat provided by a heavy winter coat are not enough to keep them warm. If a cow has a dry, heavy winter coat, she can withstand temperatures below 18 degrees before feeling any cold stress. When cold stressed, cattle will change their behavior, such as seeking shelter to avoid the cold. With good body condition, a clean, dry coat, shelter, fresh water and good nutrition, dairy cattle can tolerate temperatures well below zero. Cattle have three factors that prepare them for winter: - Hair coat: Cattle can grow long, thick coats to provide insulation against cold weather. If cattle are not exposed to the cold such as in a warm tiestall barn, they acclimate to the temperature of their given environment. The hair coat needs to stay clean and dry to provide the best insulation protection for the cow. - Body condition: Heifers and dry cows tend to put on more weight in the winter months. Be sure to talk with your nutritionist ahead of time to make sure your heifers and dry cows have enough energy in their diet to help protect them from the cold weather. - Increase metabolic rate: Cows naturally adjust their metabolic rate to help produce more heat to help maintain
Gerard Cramer gcramer@umn.edu 612-625-8184 Marcia Endres miendres@umn.edu 612-624-5391 Sandra Godden godde002@umn.edu 612-625-8177 Joleen Hadrich jhadrich@umn.edu 612-626-5620 Les Hansen hanse009@umn.edu 612-624-2277 Brad Heins hein0106@umn.edu 320-589-1711 Kevin Janni kjanni@umn.edu 612-625-3108 Karen Johnson ande9495@umn.edu 320-484-4334 Claire LaCanne lacanne@umn.edu 507-332-6109 Brenda Miller nels4220@umn.edu 320-732-4435 Kota Minegishi kota@umn.edu 612-624-7455 Erin Royster royster@umn.edu Jim Salfer salfe001@umn.edu 320-203-6093 M. Scott Wells mswells@umn.edu 612-625-3747 Emily Wilmes krek0033@umn.edu 320-255-6169
Spiro-Mix TMR & Trailer Mixers • Spiro p reel and auger g provide true end-to-end mixing • Stainless steel in critical areas • Optional p hayy knives to process hay and straw
ale Dell for r Ca iesest yoInurqucliros !! me oer elcal Wde
Powered Feed Carts • Stainless steel feed box • Heavy-duty drive
Conveyors
Belt
Bottom & Top Delivery
E. Rissler Mfg. LLC
All Poly & Treated Wood
2794 Brumbaugh Road, New Enterprise, PA 16664 • 814-766-2246 all: Maki Farm Service Curtis, WI Podevels Sales & Service MarshÀeld, WI
Or C
Reinke Sales Green Bay, WI Swiderski’s Antigo, WI
their core body temperature. This need for energy takes these resources away from other body functions, such as milk production, if a higher energy diet is not provided. There are several things we can do to keep our cattle cared for during cold weather. - Shelter: Provide shelter for cattle to get them out of the elements. A wind break is one solution; however, providing a roof is ideal. Providing deep, clean, dry bedding is essential to help keep the animals warm. Remember that a clean dry hair coat provides signicantly better insulation than a dirty, wet hair coat. Also take time to evaluate your building for drafts that can create a problem. Look around doors, windows and curtains for areas that should be sealed. - Rations: Cows need more calories to keep themselves warm, especially cows with less than moderate body condition. Discuss with your nutritionist the ideal options for your herd and facilities. Consider sorting out thin cows or heifers in order to provide them more specialized care, such as a higher energy ration and less crowded, draft-free shelter. - Water: Be sure to be checking your waterer or water tanks regularly for frozen water. Frozen water or excessively cold water signicantly limits water and feed intake of our cattle. Cows can draw water at a rate of 3 to 5 gallons per minute, so the water supply and system need to keep up with demand. Cows prefer the temperature of the water to be between 40 and 65 degrees. Consider utilizing a thermometer to determine if tank heaters and waterer heating elements are in proper working order. - Herd health: Some cows are designed to handle the cold better than others. Keep a close eye on your herd to watch for additional signs of stress caused by cold weather. Older cows, cows with previous health issues and calves are the groups most susceptible to the cold weather. Also keep a close eye for potential frostbite to occur. Cows leaving the milking barn or parlor with wet teats or the ears of calves are two of the rst spots that get frostbite exposure. - Foot traction: Prevent the accumulation of ice as much as possible, especially on walking surfaces for both you and your animals. Consider rufng up the surface and adding sand or gravel for traction. Consider these suggestions to keep your herd safe and healthy this winter season.
The effect of hoof trimming technique on lameness Hoof trimming is an important component of a lameness control program. Hoof trimming is thought to prevent lameness by restoring a more upright foot angle, shortening dorsal wall length and excessive thickness of the sole at the toe, thereby distributing weight more evenly within the weight-bearing surface of each hoof and balancing weight bearing between the two hooves. Several hoof trimming techniques have been described; they can be split into categories based on how the technique leaves the angle of the sole relative to the bone in the leg. The majority of methods aim for a at sole whereby the inside and outside walls are trimmed to be level and perpendicular to the bone. This method is known as the functional trimming method. Others prefer to use hoof angle or sole reading methods to achieve appropriate length and thickness. Alternative trimming methods to the at trimming By Gerard Cramer method encourage a sloped sole whereby the outside hoof wall is higher than the inside hoof wall, known as the Kansas method. A majority of hoof trimmers use either one of these methods as a basis for their own personalized trimming techniques. From a survey of 44 hoof trimmers, 55 percent used the functional trimming, 17 percent used the white line method (a at, sole reading method), 12 percent used the Kansas method and 15 percent used a combination of methods. The most common trimming technique used in North America is the functional hoof trimming method. Originally advocated by Toussait-Raven, this method focuses on using a specic measurement to achieve proper dorsal wall length and toe thickness. An adaptation of the functional hoof trimming method involves increased modeling (the removal of horn from around the interdigital space) to the weight bearing hoof (outer hoof on back feet, inner hoof on front feet) to prevent excess pressure on the common sole ulcer site. However, there is little scientic evidence for the effectiveness of any hoof trimming techniques and adaptations in preventing lameness. We completed a study that compared the functional hoof trimming method to an adaptation with increased modeling of the weight bearing hoof on the development of a hoof horn lesion or a lameness event at mid-lactation. We visited three farms for one year and had a total of 1,562 cows in the study. Cows were trimmed at dry-off, and only those without a hoof horn lesion (white line disease, sole ulcer or thin sole) were enrolled in the study. The enrolled cows were randomly assigned to be trimmed with a LIT (42 millimeters) or BIG (18 millimeters) model (Figures 1, 2). In addition, all study cows were scored for locomotion before the dry-off trim and followed thereafter until they were trimmed again at mid-lactation (100 to 165 DIM). Overall, several things stood out from this study. First, relatively few cows (12 percent) developed hoof lesions over the course of the study. Second, there was no evidence of a difference between the two hoof trimming methods when assessing results across all cows. Interestingly, there appears to be an age related effect, as rst-lactation cows had half the risk of being identied as lame in their next lactation after being trimmed with the BIG model. Similarly, rst lactation cows were about one-third less likely to have a hoof horn lesion if trimmed with the BIG model. There was no evidence of a difference in the risk of lameness or the development of hoof lesions between BIG or LIT on cows in second or later lactations. Our results suggest that trimming 100 rst lactation cows with increased modeling of the weight bearing hoof will result in approximately ve fewer cows with hoof horn lesions than if they were trimmed with the LIT model. We have several theories about why we had different ndings in older cows, and we will be exploring some of those factors in future research. This study was funded by the AABP-HTA hoof health research grant through the AABP foundation and the University of Minnesota Population Systems signature program.
MDA requests value-added grant proposals
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is now accepting applications for the competitive AGRI Value-Added Grant Program. The MDA anticipates awarding up to $2.5 million in this round of proposals. The aim of the Value-Added Grant is to increase sales of Minnesota agricultural products by diversifying markets, increasing market access, and increasing food safety of value-added products through equipment purchases and facility improvements. New or established for-prot businesses can apply for funding to support start-up, expansion, and updates; develop the processing and aggregating capacity of farmers selling to institutions; and increase food safety. Grant funds reimburse up to 25 percent of the overall project cost. Funding under this round will come at two levels. Level 1 projects will have a maximum award of $200,000 and a minimum of $1,000. Level 2
projects will have a maximum award of $1,000,000 and a minimum of $200,001. Level 2 projects will be subject to Minnesota’s Prevailing Wage Requirements. Applications must be received no later than Friday, March 8, 2019 at 4 p.m. CST. Applications are available on the Value-Added Grant Program website and may be submitted online (preferred), by mail, or in-person. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Program supports the advancement of Minnesota’s agricultural and renewable energy industries. AGRI has made signicant economic impacts by supporting jobs, increasing productivity, improving efciency, and assisting in the development of agricultural products. For more information about all the grants available through this program, visit the MDA website www. mda.state.mn.us/grants/agri.
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 29
2 DAY EVENT
FARM & AG SHOW Friday, February 22 • 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday, February 23 • 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. DUBUQUE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS
CONSIGNMENT AUCTION Saturday, February 23 at 10 a.m. Call Doug at (563) 590-2441or (563) 879-3640
Presentations on cover crops, markets, soils, dairy health and more!
FREE
Admission & Door Prizes
AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITORS
Go to www.dbqfair.com for more info For questions on this event or if you are interested in being an exhibitor and/or sponsor, please contact Kevin at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds at (563) 588-1406
ADVERTORIAL
J. Gile Dairy Equipment, Inc. has earned ExpertCare® Certification from GEA! A!
We are pleased to announce that J. Gile Dairy Equipment has been awarded certification as a GEA ExpertCare® dealer. ExpertCare® dealerships undergo an extensive training program to perform a broad range of services for your milking operation, using the latest evaluation and analysis technology. Through continuous monitoring of Key Performance Indicators (KPls) that are related to milking or that influence the milking process, your ExpertCare dealer can identify variables impacting performance and make recommendations for improvements. They will work with veterinarians, nutritionists, herd consultants, and the milking staff to enhance and protect operational efficiency and milk quality on the dairy operations they service. “At GEA, we set the bar high when it comes to qualifying as an ExpertCare® dealer. J. Gile Dairy Equipment has spent the last few months tackling over 75 hours of technical training sessions and account management review to elevate the services their team provides to their customer base,” explains John Brooks, GEA Sales Manager for Dairy Farming Hygiene & Service (East). “Therefore, we can say with confidence that J. Gile is trained and certified to work with your dairy operation in a highly professional manner, and partner with you to meet your goals for future success - protecting your valuable milking investment.” As an ExpertCare® dealer, J. Gile Dairy Equipment is more proficient in optimal cow milking analysis, milk quality trouble-shooting, animal care and environmental evaluations, milking operator trainings, and equipment maintenance. “This is an accomplished milestone for J. Gile,” adds Brooks. “We are extremely proud to add their name to our list of valued GEA ExpertCare® dealers”.
For more information about ExpertCare® and how J. Gile Dairy Equipment’s certification will benefit your operation, please contact the dealership at 608-744-2661 or talk to your local route serviceman the next time they visit your farm.
915 S. Main St., Cuba City, WI 53807
608-744-2661
www.jgiledairyequipment.com
Page 30 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
The melter
Last week’s bitter cold made challenges for accomplishing the everyday tasks on our farm, no doubt much like everyone affected by the “Polar Vortex”. We had frozen augers and iced over waterers. We had big calves with no water and an opossum taking up residence by the pipe workings. The milk tanker was a bit more slush than pure milk due to ice chunks. The torpedo heater that tries to keep the manure thawed in the channel broke. The extreme cold in the barns turned manure into ice, taking hours to load and haul. In the midst of it all; cruising around the farm with insulation, my serrated kitchen knife, ready to jump in a skid steer or a tractor—was Peter. “The
Melter” is to the tune of Kenny Rogers’ hit song “The Gambler.” On a cold winter’s day In a truck bound for somewhere I met up with the melter We were both too cold to walk So we took turns a-drivin’ ‘Cross the farm up to the freestall The problems overtook him, And he began to speak He said, “Sis, I’ve made a life Out of keepin’ things a-runnin’ Knowin’ how to melt things By the pieces that freeze up So if you don’t mind me sayin’
BODENSTEINER IMPLEMENT CO wwwbodimpcom
Think Spring!
#48125 JD 2623VT 38”8’ ROLLING BASKET $52,000 ROW
#47791 2016 JD 6130R 130 HP W/LDR $97,500 MON
#43824 2015 HAGIE STS12 120’ BOOM $329,000 OEL
#45289 2012 JD 1770 NT CCS 24R30 VAC, FF $129,000 DEC
#43584 2012 JD 8335R 335 HP DUALS $149,500 DYE
#45409 2015 JD 1775NT 12R30 CCS ELECTRIC DRIVE $145,000 DEC
#45192 2014 JD 8245R 1506 HRS MFWD, DUALS $179,500 DYS
#44575 2012 MCCORMICK MTX135 131 HP $36,500 WAU
#43319 2016 JD 8295R 226 HRS, CAB $224,000 DEC
#45020 2018 JD R4038 120’BOOM, SF6000 RECEIVER 319 HRS $306,500 NH
Ramblings from the Ridge
By Jacqui Davison Columnist
You’ve got to know when to bust ice Know when to heat ice Know when to shut it off And know when to quit You’ve got to nd your peace When it seems you’re out of patience They’ll be time enough for xin’ When the winter’s done
And when he nished speakin’ He turned back toward the porch door Cut the insulation And headed to the barn And somewhere in the vortex The melter he kept workin’ And with his parting words I found the hope that I could keep You’ve got to know when to bust ice Know when to heat ice Know when to shut it off And know when to quit You’ve got to nd your peace When it seems you’re out of patience They’ll be time enough for xin’ When the winter’s done Jacqui and her family milk 800 cows and run 1,200 acres of crops in the northeastern corner of Vernon County, Wis. Her children, Ira (12), Dane (10), Henry (5) and Cora (toddler), help her on the farm while her husband, Keith, works on a grain farm. If she’s not in the barn, she’s probably in the kitchen, trailing after little ones, or sharing her passion of reading with someone. Her life is best described as organized chaos – and if it wasn’t, she’d be bored.
#45123 2014 HAGIE DTS10 90’ BOOM $165,500 ROW
#44921 2016 HAGIE STS12 120’ BOOM $285,000 ROW
#45408 2013 JD 1770NT CCS 30” PLANTER $118,000 DEC
#44462 2015 JD R4038 120’ BOOM, $267,000 MON
For complete info on all our used equipment log on to bodimpcom Elkader ......................... 563-245-2470 Clermont ....................... 563-423-5206 Cresco ............................. 563-547-2152 Decorah .......................... 563-382-2961 Dyersville....................... 563-875-2724
So I handed him a hot bowl And he gulped down the last swallow Then he grabbed a piece of cake And asked me for a knife And he headed for the front porch And his face broke in a smile He said, “If you’re gonna thaw the water, You gotta wait to do it right
Every melter knows That the secret to reheatin’ Is knowin’ what to insulate And knowin’ what to salt ‘Cause every job’s a cold one And every one important And the best that you can hope for is it thaws on its own.”
#44999 2012 JD 9360R 360HP 1643 HRS $152,500 ROW
#48112 2017 JD 8400 R 445 HRS $324,000 ELK
I can see you’re out of salt mix For a taste of the dumplings I’ll give you some advice”
Monticello ...................... 319-465-3515 New Hampton ................641-394-3061 Oelwein ...........................319-283-4371 Rowley ........................... 319-938-2222 Waukon ........................ 563-568-3463
www.dairystar.com I F A
Roller-Grinder
More milk less feed with uniform Àne-grind Solid cast rolls All belt-electric drive Single or double mills USA & International sales Replacement rolls available for most mills Used mills and tumble mixers on hand Hammer Mills
Phone: (319) 634-3849 • Toll Free: (800) 426-0261 web: www.ifamill.com • email: ifamill@netins.net
Who took my colostrum?
Low colostrum yield has recently become a more common complaint from dairy farmers. While it is true that high quality colostrum replacers are readily available today, they are fairly expensive, and thus may be often fed at a dose that is less than optimal. When fed at adequate Veterinary Wisdom doses, the cost per calf is signicant, and farmers would rather use fresh or stored cow colostrum. There is anecdotal evidence that low energy dry cow diets, season of calving and possibly low energy dry cow diets may affect colostrum volume. There has been quite a bit of research published reBy Jim Bennett garding colostrum qualColumnist ity, but little has been published regarding colostrum quantity. In a study published in the January 2019 edition of the “Journal of Dairy Science”, the authors looked at Swedish Red and Swedish Holstein cows with planned 28-day and 56-day dry periods. Both breeds showed lower colostrum yields with the short dry periods. Average colostrum production for all cows in the short dry period group was 6.8 pounds versus 13.4 pounds in the long dry period group. The IgG content of colostrum was not tested, but the colostrum protein levels were higher in the short dry period group, which suggests that IgG levels may have been higher as well. So the amount of colostrum was dramatically reduced, but the quality was likely improved by a short dry period. An earlier study, also published in “The Journal of Dairy Science” examined colostrum yield in Jerseys (Gavin, et. al. 2018). This study looked at a variety of factors including, age at calving, male or female calf, dry period length, previous 305ME and milk produc-
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 31
tion, previous lactation length, gestation length and month of calving. The most signicant nding was the relationship between month of calving and colostrum yield. The overall colostrum yield was 14.5 pounds in June and only 5.5 pounds in December. That is more than 2.6 times more colostrum for June calving cows than December calving cows. Multiparous cows had a greater decline in colostrum between June and December (14.5 to 2.9 pounds) than rst lactation cows (14.3 to 9.24). The authors concluded that the seasonal effect of lower colostrum yield in the winter was due to reduced photoperiod during the month of calving and for the one-month period prior to calving. Length of dry period did also show to be correlated to colostrum volume; a cow having a 45-day dry period was 1.88 times more likely to have insufcient colostrum volume to feed one calf than a cow with a 75-day dry period. Little has been published regarding low energy dry cow diets and colostrum volume. A 2016 study (Mann, et. al) showed that cows fed at 100 percent of dietary requirements produced less colostrum than cows fed 125 percent or 150 percent of requirements, but the results were not statistically signicant. A sheep study showed that ewes fed 100 percent of NRC produced greater colostrum volume than ewes fed 60 or 140 percent of NRC (Swanson et. al. 2008). Anecdotal reports suggest that providing adequate metabolizable protein when feeding low energy close up diets may also increase colostrum volume. Interestingly, the January 2019 edition of JDS also contained a paper (Salfer), examining seasonality of milk, butterfat and protein production. Milk production was up to 7.25 pounds greater on average for milk produced in March, April, or May than milk produced in September, October or November. Fat and protein concentrations peaked in mid-winter and reached a minimum in July. There is some evidence in this paper to suggest that cows in regions with smaller change in photoperiod, e.g. Florida, have less seasonal variation in milk production and protein
4HRL lasting JOHUNLZ [OH[ NP]L `V\ lasting ZH]PUNZ
and fat percentages than cows in northern latitudes. Taken together, the Gavin and Salfer studies suggest that seasonality of milk production and seasonality of colostrum volume are both regulated by photoperiod. To sum it up, it looks pretty clear that there is a strong seasonality to volume of colostrum production, and it is due to changes in daylight. Shorter dry periods also appear to result in lower colostrum yields, so farms that have adopted shorter dry periods may see more winter calving cows with inadequate colostrum yield than farms with longer dry periods. Energy and protein levels in prepartum diets have not been proven to affect colostrum yield, but little research exists, so these dietary factors may still be important, too. One cannot easily change the amount of daylight experienced by dry cows on most farms, so the seasonality is something we may have to live with. Farmers who have adopted shorter dry periods might be able to increase colostrum production during the winter by increasing dry period length for winter calving cows. Bennett is one of four dairy veterinarians at Northern Valley Dairy Production Medicine Center in Plainview, Minn. He also consults on dairy farms in other states. He and his wife, Pam, have four children. Jim can be reached at bennettnvac@gmail.com with comments or questions.
Snowblowers | Horizontal & Vertical Mixer Wagons
Parts Warehouse
Sioux Falls, SD orders@vandminc.com 1-800-648-6507
WIN $500! Call us to schedule a farm visit with your local dealer today.
Get a DCC Waterbed quote from January 2 to April 30, 2019, your farm name will go into a $500 drawing. No purchase necessary. The program will end 5 p.m. CST, Tuesday, April 30. The drawing will take place on Wednesday, May 1. Three farm names will be drawn, $500/each farm.
Contact a DCC Waterbeds dealer near you:
20
TH
Comfort. Built to last.
S[O /LYK OLH 3HIVY
UN )LKKP YL 4HU\ LTLU[ N 4HUH PYZ 9LWH
Eastern Iowa Dairy Systems - Epworth, IA Livestock Systems - Charles City, IA Leedstone - Melrose, MN, Glencoe, MN, Plainview, MN & Woodville, WI K&R Equipment - Fountain, MN Midwest Livestock Systems - Pine Island, MN & Sioux Falls, SD United Development LLC- Brookings, SD Bob’s Dairy Supply - Dorchester, WI Field’s - Mount Horeb, WI Fuller’s Milker Center Inc. - Lancaster, WI Komro Sales & Service Inc. - Durand, WI & Whitehall, WI Nachatelo Construction - Mauston, WI Preston Dairy - Sparta, WI RLS Vinyl & Farm Supply - Hager City, WI Scharine Group - Whitewater, WI Lindstrom Farm Systems - Menomonie, WI
www.DCCWaterbeds.com | (608) 709-2693 Advanced Comfort Technology, Inc. © 2019
Page 32 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
A different kind of meeting
After a long fall of chopping, combining and tilling, my brain started functioning again as it was time to zero in on the books for pre-tax meetings. I was not too worried about taxes this year, but I was worried about losing money. I always assumed other dairies were better than we were about controlling costs, and I wanted to know their secrets. I called my daughter, Kia, who gets on a lot of dairies because of her job; she is also on the board of Western Iowa Dairy Alliance, which is a group of dairy farmers and tradespeople who are together for lobbying and promotional purposes. I asked Kia if she thought we could get a group of dairymen together to share their cost cutting ideas. She said WIDA needed a winter meeting anyway, and she would run the idea past the other board members. They agreed it would be worth a try, so we did a round table type meeting a few weeks ago in Sheldon, Iowa.
There was no speaker at all; only a group of dairy producers, white poster board and a request to act as the facilitator to keep the discussion moving. My goal for any meeting I attend is to come away with one good idea to implement. I had no idea how this meeting would go. We had about 20 dairies represented, ranging in size from 60 to 3,000 cows. Kia put four posters on the wall that people could write on. First was what was the best cost cutting idea on their farm; second was what was the biggest challenge on their farm and it could not be milk price; third was what changes were made to increase income; and fourth was share your cost of feed per hundredweight and also share your milk hauling costs. Almost everyone came up to the front and wrote something on one or more of the posters. It soon became obvious that the No. 2 poster listing challenges
1HO12164 TRANSFORMER daughter Darlington Ridge Transformer 12547
Target Your Genetic Focus Using ICC$™ Sub-Indexes Fertility & Fitness (FYFT$) The FYFT$ sub-index emphasizes reproductive efficiency through genetics that result in optimal age at first calving, reduced days open and shorter calving intervals. 2% Fertility Haplotypes
5% Polled Genotype NEW
38% Heifer Conception Rate
55% Daughter Pregnancy Rate
FYFT$ Sub-Index
FYFT$ Leaders
FYFT$
DPR
ICC$™
1HO13836 WORLD CLASS 1HO12434 ALABI 1HO13256 ATLANTIS 1HO12164 TRANSFORMER 1HO12902 TAPPS 1HO12490 FORCE ONE 1HO12429 BROADWAY 1HO12917 MIKE 1HO12919 CINCO 1HO11372 HONOLULU 1HO11376 TABASCO 1HO10890 ADRIAN
+196 +176 +171 +165 +157 +155 +152 +149 +146 +143 +139 +136
+6.2 +6.7 +6.0 +5.4 +4.5 +4.8 +4.0 +4.8 +4.8 +3.4 +4.5 +5.9
+1216 +1039 +1150 +1053 +1095 +1049 +1000 +963 +987 +956 +1027 +915
Contact your GENEX representative for more information. 888.333.1783 // www.genex.coop
© 2019 Genex Cooperative. All rights reserved.
A-20403-19
GENEX/12-18, CDCB/12-18
was the most popular. Labor pay and supply topped the list. We decided that labor was the elephant in the room and we would leave that item for last so we made sure we covered the other good ideas. As we went through each line item idea, it be- Making Cents of Dairy came apparent to me that this meeting was different than any dairy meeting I have ever been to. The mood in the room was so genuine. We all wanted to help each other and were not afraid to share our problems and ideas. There was no pride left in any of us as we knew as an industry By Dave Vander Kooi we face many challenges. Columnist On the cost cutting poster, we were all looking to see if someone posted a blockbuster idea, but there were no blockbusters. Tied in with that was feed cost per cwt. of milk, and the three that shared and/or knew that cost were all between $6.49 and $6.52. We were hoping someone would put $5.62 or something so we could pick his brain as to how he did it. Two other ideas did surface that were not cost cutting, but helpful nonetheless. One dairyman uses an app on his phone for employee scheduling. All the managers and employees on the farm can view it from their own phones, so there are no misunderstandings about who should be working when. Another farmer carried a high deductible on his farm insurance policy, except he opted for dollar one glass coverage on all farm implements. It is amazing how many skid loader and manure spreader tractor windows get broke every year, and this way insurance paid for new glass and installation. There were many other good ideas shared at the meeting, and as I said earlier, we saved the elephant in the room until last. We took a ve-minute break and told the room if they had had enough discussion to feel free to leave. As people got up to stretch their legs, I was not sure how many would come back. After four minutes, I realized every single person had sat back down. Ready to begin again and still engaged. We decided to tackle the issue with the most tally marks: Labor. Everyone struggles with labor, nding it, keeping them and paying them fairly. We shared our pay scales and benet packages with each other, along with how we sourced labor. Then Johnny, a well-respected dairyman, started talking. Now Johnny is a cheerleader in a fullback’s body, a glass three-quarter full kind of guy. Johnny said we all need to greet every employee every day with a smile, ask them how things are going, and what can we do to help them get the work done efciently. If we do that and more for our employees, Johnny said our elephant problem will disappear. Everyone in the room knew Johnny was right, yet we all are thinking of walking in the barn and seeing the broken skid loader glass and wanting to blame somebody, anybody. I think the rest of us should hire Johnny to make a circuit to each of our dairies every day to cheer our employees on. At the end of the day, we did not accomplish much on the cost cutting side. We did accomplish a lot in terms of networking, sharing ideas and building up our spirits. I would recommend it to any group. Vander Kooi operates a 1,800-cow, 4,500 acre farm with his son, Joe, and daughter-in-law, Rita, near Worthington, Minn. Send him feedback at davevkooi@ icloud.com. Follow him on Instagram, @davevanderkooi.
We BUY, SELL, TRADE used dairy equipment and milk tanks WE SPECIALIZE IN USED DAIRY EQUIPMENT.
Milking machine equipment, bulk milk tanks and cooling equipment. Give us a call, we will be glad to help you with any of your milking machine or bulk tank needs.
We also BUY your used equipment and milk tanks.
SALVAGE HOUSE
424 Third Street, Fullerton, NE 68638 • 800-844-5427
Bittersweet goodbyes
As I write this column in early February, we have said a temporary goodbye to the bone-chilling, face-cracking cold of the past week and have had a couple of balmy, above-freezing days to recover. We can scrape frozen manure off of free stall alleys and not have to wipe the dip off of cows’ teats for a few milkings. It feels great outside even if it is hazy and humid. There have been quite a few goodbyes in my life in the past few weeks. They have been bittersweet and difcult. First, our three college kids went back to the University of Minnesota in midJanuary to pursue their degrees in animal science and Come Full Dairy Circle ag communications and marketing. They returned to classes, club meetings, friend get-togethers and other fun and exciting endeavors. They were ready to return after about a month of family and farm on their holiday break from college. Their help was appreciated by everyone here on our farm, as there were a lot of calves to wean and move, pens to clean, cattle to bed, and daily chores to squeeze in around Christmas services and parties. The kids being at home to help was also timely, because it gave me precious time in the middle of several days to make a two-hour trip to Hastings to visit my mom and return in time for evening chores. By Jean Annexstad Without their help, I would not have been able to go Columnist nearly as often during the last few weeks. Our family said a sad goodbye to my 97-year-old mother, Margaret, Jan. 15, during her funeral service in Hastings. Up until that point, there were many recent visits to keep her company, watch over her health concerns and to begin the process of saying goodbye. All of the driving trips gave me a lot of time to think about my mom. She was not a farm girl. She was raised in the small town of Cleveland, Minn., and lived next to the butcher shop and meat market that her father ran. Her mother was a homemaker. My mom loved school and going swimming with friends in the area’s lakes. She attended the University of Minnesota and earned a degree in home economics. This was based on the St. Paul campus, where she met my father, a farm boy from south Washington County. They married during World War II and eventually made their home north of Hastings on a farm where they raised ve children. My mom learned a lot about farming in a baptism by re scenario. She moved to the farm on the condition they would not milk cows, as the story goes, but soon they had a small dairy herd. She did not milk; however, I remember she did clean up milkers and drive the tractor for baling on occasion. She mostly handled the egg business from candling to delivering the eggs from 2,000 laying hens. She also substitute taught in several area schools. Her favorite classes to teach were the ag and shop classes. My mom taught us to do our best. She was always inquisitive and was our family matriarch. She knew who was doing what, including the 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren she enjoyed keeping tabs on. I will miss her for many reasons. Who will ask me if we are baling hay in June? I will not be able to explain that we do not bale hay, we chop it and go into all of the details of that. Who will tell me not to work so hard? Who will always give me that little positivity pep talk I so often seem to need? Saying goodbye to matriarchs also is a part of dairy farming. Seeing cows get loaded on the truck for the last time is always bittersweet. This year, we sold several of the kids’ project cows. I was sad to see them go. These cows are the ones you form special relationships with, and the ones you take time to scratch on the head or watch as they head back up to the barn after milking. I like looking at the DHIA records of the special cows that leave and making note of their offspring that remain and the lifetime production records they made. They were a big part of our life, and it only seems tting to take stock of their contributions, much like we get together to talk about the memories of a loved one who has passed who has lived a long, full and productive life. It seems only human to review the good and noble parts of a life and the contributions that living being has made. It makes saying goodbye slightly less bittersweet, especially when the faith a person professed and lived their entire life means a reunion in heaven someday. Saying goodbye is difcult, but it is a part of life. Jean dairy farms with her husband, Rolf, and brother-in-law, Mike, and children Emily, Matthias and Leif. They farm near St. Peter, in Norseland, where she is still trying to t in with the Norwegians and Swedes. They milk 200 cows and farm 650 acres. She can be reached at jeanannexstad@gmail.com.
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 33
Trust Your Gut Feed Theirs
A new phytogenic, a new opportunity to feed animals without antibiotics.
Here are six reasons to start using IntegriVIX® with your cattle: 1. Encourage feed intake
4. Help support efficient nutrition
3. Support a healthy immune function
6. Works with current health protocols
2. Support a healthy microbiome
5. No VFD required
119 West Circle Drive, St. Charles, MN 55972
507-932-4288
Emergency Service 507-208-9465
CUSTOM-MADE HUTCHES
By Elrosa Lumber Company
CONTACT ELROSA LUMBER CO. FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING NEEDS... • Calf Hutches • Dairy Barns Standard • Pole Barns 5-stall size • Hog Barns or call for • Remodeling custom • Houses • Decks sizes • Garages
320-697-5591
P.O. Box 140, Elrosa, MN
EFFECTIVE DRAINAGE
FOR 4 INCH PROFESSIONAL DESIGN. REASONABLE RATES. TILE Brad Herickhoff, Owner Office: 320-351-4872 Cell: 320-293-0882 brad@agtechdrainage.com
Bill Pasche, Sales & Design Cell: 320-293-6951
Sam Lange, Sales & Site Manager Cell: 320-232-3102
Gene Mensen, Sales Cell: 320-429-1036
Mark Machart, Sales Cell: 320-429-4633
bill@agtechdrainage.com
gene@agtechdrainage.com
¢ 80
PRICES STARTING AT:
sam@agtechdrainage.com
mark@agtechdrainage.com
per foot Price includes design, survey, material & installation. Prices are subject to prices of material, depth and quantity.
Page 34 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Love written in the land
Hartman proposes using precision agriculture By Danielle Nauman danielle.n@dairystar.com
ONTARIO, Wis. – A high schooler’s search in 2017 for a part-time job to earn gas money ended with a blossoming romance, an engagement proposal and wedding bells for Josh and Myah Hartman of Ontario, Wis. Two years later, the couple are
PHOTO SUBMITTED
A proposal is wriƩen in a 12-acre eld on Josh Hartman’s dairy farm near Ontario, Wis. Hartman proposed to his future bride, Myah, by working his request into the eld last summer and then teaching her how to y his new drone so that she could see the message.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Josh and Myah Hartman milk 150 cows on Hartman’s family dairy farm located in Vernon County near the village of Ontario, Wis.
newlyweds milking 150 cows on Josh’s family’s 900-acre organic-certied Elhanan Dairy Farms in Ontario, Wis. Josh handles most of the eld work, feeding and cleaning chores while Myah typically milks and cares for the calves. “We met in January of 2017, when I was still in high school,” Myah said. “I needed a part-time job for gas money and stuff, and my mom heard at church about a local farm needing help. I start-
ed there milking three nights a week and after I graduated I started working full time, milking twice a day and feeding calves.” After Myah had been working at the Hartman’s farm for about one year, the two began dating. They quickly came to the realization that marriage was in their future. Last February, Josh began shopping for an engagement ring for Myah and purchased one in April. He waited about two months before nding
a way to propose to his future bride. “I’d wanted to get a drone for doing eld checks, and the idea I came up with for proposing was a good excuse to nally get one,” Josh said. In June, Myah spent a week with her sister who had just had twins, and Josh began to put his proposal plan into action. When June 17, 2018, arrived, he was ready. Turn to HARTMANS | Page 35
QUALITY FEED STORAGE & SILAGE SUPPLIES FROM THE NATION LEADER
HytiDouble
Oxygen Barrier
The only two-in-one bunker cover without any adhesive. Two separate layers folded together with a patented folding process making covering your pile a breeze. Exclusively sold through KSI Supply in the North American Market.
The use of a TRUE oxygen barrier, not an underlayment, is estimated to reduce the lost of silage by at least 5%!
Over 7 million pounds of plastic sold in 2018
Silage Bags
7-Layer Technology OFFERED IN A VARIETY OF SIZES, LENGTHS AND THICKNESSES.
IN STOCK & READY TO GO!
KSI SUPPLY, INC. WE’VE MOVED!
N6111 COUNTY ROAD OJ • PLYMOUTH, WI 53073
920.449.5361 • 800.472.6422 KSI@EXCEL.NET
WWW.KSISUPPLY.COM
Supplying All Of Your Forage Storage Needs
DELIVERY AVAILABLE throughout the U.S.
CONTACT US TO FIND A DEALER NEAR YOU! 800.472.6422
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 35
ConƟnued from HARTMANS | Page 34
025( 237,216
12: :,7+
THAN EVER!
Lester Buildings Dealer
■ Dairy Buildings
■ Dairy Buildings
■ Cattle Sheds
We now offer more options with both wood frame and now steel frame buildings. We specilize in a variety of dairy projects, and have built facilities that ranged in size from small to large.
Give Us A Call Today And Let Us Bid Your New Expansion Dairy Facility! ■ Confinements
■ Hog Buildings
514 Main St. • Hull, IA 51239 www.hoksdsconst.com HOKSBERG Phone 712-439-1101 & DE STIGT Dennis:712-470-3147 HOKSBERGEN Fax: 712-439-1116 CONSTRUCTIO & DE STIGTER hoksdsconst@yahoo.com CONSTRUCTION, INC.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Josh and Myah Hartman announce their wedding date, Aug. 25, 2018. “The day she was coming home, I took the drone out to a eld I was working up,” Josh said. He ew the drone over the eld and used a tablet to watch what he was doing from above while he worked the words “Marry me Myah?” into the 12acre eld. When Myah arrived home later that afternoon, Josh asked her if she wanted to go check elds with him and learn to y his new drone. “As soon as I started to see the letters, I knew what it was before I got the whole thing on the screen,” Myah said, noting the drone had to y to nearly 800 feet to get the entire message into view. The two planned a wedding for Aug. 25, 2018, and were married the day before historic ooding swept through their small town of Ontario. The pair was in Nebraska when they heard the news of the ooding, beginning a drive that would take them touring along the Pacic coast from San Francisco, Calif., through Oregon before heading home through Montana and North Dakota. “We were pretty much unaffected by the ooding here on the farm,” Josh said. “The farm is pretty much all ridgetops.” The farm was purchased by Josh’s parents, Jim and Janine Hartman, both large animal veterinarians, in 2014 when Jim retired from practice to pursue a second career as a dairy farmer. “I’ve always grown up with cows,” Josh said. “When I was a kid, we raised heifers at our farm up near Cashton, Wis.” Following completion of high
school, Josh worked for a couple of years as a custom harvester and then attended diesel mechanic schooling for two years, prior to coming home to work on the family’s newly-acquired dairy farm. Myah works several days a week at an animal shelter in addition to her work on the farm. She said she would like to seek schooling in the area of dairy herd management. In the future, Josh and Myah plan to take over ownership of the farm. While Myah did not grow up on a farm, she has embraced the life of a dairy farmer. Adding to their story, the couples’ wedding rings were made by Myah’s father. “We’re really grateful for how things have turned out,” Myah said. “I’ve learned so much about the farm in the time I’ve been here. My friends are all at college, and I’ve been here learning how to pull calves. I’ve really learned to be patient and realize that things don’t always happen the way you’d like them to.” Josh is grateful his family employed a high-school girl with no farm experience or background, too. “I always gured the only way I’d ever get married is if a girl who loved farming would show up here at the farm,” Josh said. “Luckily, she did.” Fate brought two people together and a happy ending followed for all involved. “I fell in love with the farm, and then I fell in love with him,” Myah said. “This is denitely where I belong.”
505 West Main Street Marshall, MN 56258
Phone: 806-346-2362 :HVW 0DLQ 6WUHHW
alan@stuhrenterprises.com
The Stuhr Transition-Nutrition Solution
Both research and practical on-farm application demonstrate the consistent results producers see when feeding ANION BOOSTER™ and GLUCOSE BOOSTER™ in the pre-fresh and the early fresh cows. The Stuhr Transition- Nutrition Solution is proven at the University and on the dairy to provide a palatable source of anions and an effective source of glucose precursors to help prevent Hypocalcemia and Ketosis.
For More Information go to: stuhrenterprises.com
Check out the newest Hi-Gest® variety! AFX 460 • For FD4-5 Geographies • Patent-pending
Push your alfalfa to a whole new level with At Alforex , we think you should expect more— and get more—from your alfalfa and dairy herd. With a higher leaf-to-stem ratio*, Hi-Gest® alfalfa delivers a 5-10% increase in fiber digestibility and extent of digestion, 3-5% higher crude protein** and more milk per cow per day, all with high yield potential and solid agronomics. Hi-Gest is changing what producers can expect from their alfalfa. Just ask your neighbors to share their Hi-Gest story.
Talk to your dealer today about raising—and meeting—your expectations for higher quality alfalfa with Hi-Gest technology.
(877) 560-5181 | alforexseeds.com * Improved Hi-Gest® alfalfa leafiness, as documented by Alforex Seeds replicated trials at West Salem, WI and Woodland, CA, versus the following commercial alfalfa varieties: America’s Alfalfa Brand AmeriStand 427TQ, Croplan Brands LegenDairy XHD and Artesia Sunrise, Fertizona Brand Fertilac, S&W Brands SW6330, SW7410 and SW10 and W-L Brands WL 319HQ and WL 354HQ. ** The increased rate of fiber digestion, extent of digestion, and crude protein data was developed from replicated research and on-farm testing. During the 2015 growing season at West Salem, WI and Woodland, CA, the following commercial dormant, semi-dormant and non-dormant alfalfa varieties were compared head-to-head with Hi-Gest® alfalfa for rate of digestion, extent of digestion and percent crude protein: America’s Alfalfa Brand AmeriStand 427TQ, Croplan Brands LegenDairy XHD and Artesia Sunrise, Fertizona Brand Fertilac, S&W Seed Brands SW6330, SW7410 and SW10 and W-L Brands WL 319HQ and WL 354HQ. Also during the 2015 growing season, 32 on-farm Hi-Gest hay and silage samples were submitted to Rock River Laboratory, Inc., for forage analysis. The results for rate of digestion, extent of digestion and percent crude protein were averaged and compared to the 60-day and four-year running averages for alfalfa in the Rock River database which included approximately 1,700 alfalfa hay and 3,800 silage 60-day test results and 23,000 hay and 62,000 silage tests results in the four-year average.
Visit us at Corteva.com , Trademarks of DuPont, Dow AgroSciences, Pioneer and affiliated companies or their respective owners. © 2018 Alforex Seeds
Page 36 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Compeer Financial is proud to sponsor
Women In Dairy Hannah Molitor Rockville, Minn. Stearns County 300 cows
Family: My dad, Joe, and uncle, Tom, are partners on the farm. I work as the herd manager. Tell us about your farm. We are an organic dairy and rotationally graze our cows. We grow about 300 acres of alfalfa and 200 acres of corn. The milk cows have roughly 300 acres of pasture for managed rotational grazing, and the heifers have 300 acres for continuous grazing. What’s the busiest time of day for you? Mornings are usually the busiest time for me. During morning chores, you will usually nd me in the milking parlor, breeding cows, working with fresh cows and calves, and setting pastures. I do oat around a bit, depending on the day and season for other chores, like mixing feed and feeding calves. When you get a spare moment what do you do? I enjoy keeping myself busy. When I’m not at the farm, I teach conrmation and do a little youth ministry at my home parish. I am also active on the Stearns County Farm Bureau board. Along with
It pays to be a
MEMBER-OWNER.
Tell us about your most memorable experience working on the farm. There isn’t just one memory that sticks out like a sore thumb. When there is a handful of us sisters (there are eight of us total) and cousins working together, the shenanigans can get pretty real. What have you enjoyed most about dairy farming or your tie to the dairy industry? I think the people who are involved with the dairy industry are so great. Working with the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, I have the privilege of working with dairy farmers who are all in different stages of their farming career. It’s really incredible how willing the master grazers are to teach the apprentices, and how eager the apprentices are to learn.
Compeer Financial® Patronage Program As a Farm Credit cooperative, our memberRZQHUV VKDUH LQ WKH SURĆWV WKH\ KHOS WR FUHDWH through our patronage program. By paying back a portion of our earnings to our member-owners, they can reinvest in their farms and businesses, which directly impacts our local and state economy. Keeping rural America strong is at the heart of everything we do. See for yourself— being a member-owner pays.
OUR MEMBER-OWNERS WILL RECEIVE NEARLY $150 MILLION IN PATRONAGE IN 2019.
working on the farm, I also work for Minnesota Sustainable Farming Association as an education coordinator for Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship.
How do you stay connected with others in the industry? I stay connected with others in dairy by engaging in local organizations, hosting and attending pasture eld days and county fair. Really, the list goes on and on. Who is someone in the industry who has inspired you? Why? My inspiration would be my grandpa. I have learned the value of hard work from my dad and uncle, through his legacy. If you could give a tour of your farm to a prominent woman in today’s society, who would it be and why? I would choose Nancy Pelosi. Although I do not agree with her political agenda, I think it’s important to share our agricultural story and nd a common ground. What is the best vacation you’ve ever taken? Just a few weeks ago, I traveled to Rome for a young adult pilgrimage for new years. I loved this trip. I attended this pilgrimage with 18 other young adults from mostly the United States, as well as Spain and Poland. (844) 426-6733 | #CHAMPIONRURAL
compeer.com/patronage
Compeer Financial, ACA is an Equal Credit Opportunity Lender and Equal Opportunity Provider. ©2019 All rights reserved.
AUTHORIZED DEALERS IN IA, MN & WI KM Electric Charles City, IA 641-364-2103
TMR Feed Carts
Maki Farm Svc LLC Curtiss, WI 715-613-7308 Hartung Sales & Service Freeport, MN 320-836-2697 Hanson Silo Lake Lillian, MN 320-664-4171
Round Bale Unrollers Stationary TMR Mixers
Melrose Imp. Melrose, MN 320-256-4253 Zabel Equip. Eastman, WI 608-874-4105
What are some words you like to live by? “Many times what we perceive as an error or failure is actually a gift. And eventually we nd that lessons learned from that discouraging experience prove to be of great worth.”
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 37
Roof collapses due to heavy snow
Anderson Hybrid X Bale Wrapper
McHale V660 Round Baler
IN STOCK
IN STOCK
FINANCING AVAILABLE Call Us At (715) 223-3361 Or visit us on-line at www.cloverdaleequip.com N13835 County Rd. E - Curtiss, WI 54422
Turn to PIERCE | Page 5
Target Your Customers!
PHOTO SUBMITTED
The roof of the holding pen collapsed due to snow buildup Jan. 28 at ChrisĆ&#x;an Hill Dairy in Lomira, Wis.
Lomira dairy thankful no cattle, employees hurt By Stacey Smart Sta Writer
LOMIRA, Wis. – Christian Hill Dairy received an unwelcome surprise the evening of Jan. 28. After acquiring 1 foot of snowfall, the roof of the holding pen collapsed on the 2,000-cow dairy near Lomira, Wis. Thankfully, no one was hurt. “We count our many blessings and are grateful no employees or cows were injured when the roof went down,â€? said Patrick Christian, one of the owners of Christian Hill Dairy. Christian was packing to leave for a conference when he got a text message from the farm manager saying the roof had collapsed. “I was in shock and called my mom and dad who still live on the farm and asked them to take a walk out there and conďƒžrm that this actually happened,â€? Christian said. “I just couldn’t believe it.â€? Fortunately, they were in between groups at the time of the collapse. Therefore, the cows and employees were in or near the parlor, where the roof was still intact. “It was the back half of the roof that came down,â€? Christian said. Built in 2005, the building became a victim of Mother Nature that day. Wind proved to be a culprit, blowing snow onto the holding pen roof until it built up to troublesome levels the building could no longer withstand. “There wasn’t much moisture in the snow but the sheer volume of snow
was enough to cause the roof to crack in half and give way,� Christian said. Lots of people pitched in to help the Christians clean up the debris as quickly as possible. Knowles Fire Department, Gehrings, Ag Electric, Lemmenes, friends, neighbors and employees were instrumental in getting the farm back online in a timely manner. The incident happened at 6:30 p.m., and by 11 p.m., they were back to milking cows. A winter teat dip was applied that night to prevent frostbite. With wind chills nearing 50 degrees below zero that week, the collapse of the roof could not have come at a worse time. Many schools across the state were closed due to heavy snowfall and dangerously cold weather. Bayland Builders from Green Bay came the next day to put up a temporary roof for the Christians. The crew braved the weather and worked through the night to ensure the farm’s cows and people were protected from the brutal cold. “I’m really thankful they came out and did this for us,� Christian said. The interim structure consisted of 2- by 4-foot planks, LVL beams and poly, which Christian said added enough warmth to keep things from freezing and keep wind off the cows. The rebuild began the following week and will be completed in phases over a couple-week timeframe. The plan was to also beef up the side that did not fall once the weather warmed up. Christian Hill Dairy has never experienced a roof collapse. Christian and his three brothers along with their parents operate the dairy, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary in April. “We’re really appreciative of everyone who came to help us,� Christian said. “Sometimes you don’t know who your real friends are, but they come when you need them.�
Advertise Online at www.dairystar.com If you would like to advertise, call 320-352-6303 for more information.
Prevent costly falls before they occur We offer grooving & scarifying!
BEST FOOTING CONCRETE GROOVING
Strum, WI
715-579-0531
www.bestfootingconcretegrooving.com
6$8. &(175( 01 ZZZ PPFMG FRP
3KRQH $VN IRU 5DOSK RU 6WHYH
³Â§à ŒâoĂ”oĂ˜Ă˘ Â’ÂŚAÂŚ\’Œ† ĂťA’›AR›oc Ă? <oAĂ”Ă˜
8700, 2017, 600 Hrs, RWA, Warranty .......... $379,000 6710, 1993, 4006 Hrs, RWA ...........................$54,000 8600, 2016, 785 Hrs, RWA, Warranty ..........$359,000 5820, 1982, 4037 Hrs, 2WD ...........................$24,500 8600, 2016, 693 Hrs, RWA, Warranty ..........$299,000 5460, 1978, 4542 Hrs, RWA ...........................$16,500 Steel Deal 8600, 2015, 436 Hrs, RWA, Warranty .......... $349,000 Claas 970, 2008, 1948 Hrs, RWA ................ Pricing $127,000 Steel Deal 8600, 2015, 830 Hrs, RWA, Warranty .......... $290,000 Claas 890, 2002, 2290 Hrs, RWA .................. $96,000 Pricing 8500, 2017, 92 Hrs, RWA, Warranty ............ $395,000 NH FR9090, 2008, 1998 Hrs, RWA ..............$139,000 All hours listed are “cutter hours�. 8500, 2016, 665 Hrs, RWA, Warranty .......... $329,000 8500, 2016, 188 Hrs, RWA, Warranty .......... $375,000 8500, 2016, 588 Hrs, RWA ...........................$315,000 8500, 2016, 900 Hrs, RWA ...........................$287,000 7780, 2014, 1301 Hrs, RWA .........................$239,000 7750, 2011, 2020 Hrs, RWA .........................$175,000 7850, 2008, 1600 Hrs, RWA .........................$179,500 7550, 2012, 1825 Hrs, RWA .........................$205,000 7550, 2008, 1359 Hrs, RWA .........................$189,500 7350, 2008, 2950 Hrs, RWA .........................$149,000 Steel Deal 7800, 2007, 1885 Hrs, RWA .........................$126,000 Pricing 7700, 2007, 1570 Hrs, RWA .........................$169,500 2015, 830 Hrs, RWA, KP, 900R42 Tires, 7500, 2005, 2423 Hrs, RWA .........................$135,000 l Dea el Harvest Lab and Guidance Ready, Refrigerator, Ste Pricing 7500, 2003, 3100 Hrs, RWA ...........................$98,000 Leather, Dual Header Drive, Pro Drive Steel Deal 7300, 2003, 3637 Hrs, RWA ...........................$68,000 Pricing $ 7250, 2012, 556 Hrs, RWA ...........................$195,000 6810, 1996, 4925 Hrs, 2WD ...........................$42,500
8600
290,000
@™™ à Šd@Ăž {ŠÒ dmĂ @Â?™Ö Š¤ ŠÍÒ @Ă–ĂžÂ? m@Ă–m |¤@¤ZÂ?¤„y $âÂ?oĂ” ÂĄA\Â?Â’ÂŚoĂ˜ AĂťA’›AR›o }ÂŤĂ” ›oAĂ˜o AÂ›Ă˜ÂŤĂ‚ 0ĂR™o\â ⍠\Ă”of’â AŸŸÔÝA›Â A›› }ÂŤĂ” foâAÂ’Â›Ă˜Ă‚
Page 38 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Winter injury in alfalfa By Nathan Drewitz
University of Minnesota Extension
As I am writing this on Jan. 30 I believe the temperature outside is negative 35 degrees Fahrenheit with negative 50 degree wind chills or for those of you that prefer the metric system it was negative 37 degrees Celsius with negative 46 degrees Celsius wind chills. No matter how you sliced the ice it is really cold outside. Although we had snow on elds before we got the cold weather it does bring up concerns of alfalfa elds where snow was blown off and not as protected. For those elds, come this spring focus should be given on assessment of winter kill and injury. However, since we are still a few months away from assessment of those stands lets focus on some other factors that will inuence winter injury. There are multiple inuencing factors which are snow cover, temperatures, fall hardening, plant health, and soil fertility and moisture. Snow cover is typically the one that I hear the most about this time of year. It takes at least 4 inches of snow to adequately insulate the soil to prevent direct freezing damage to alfalfa. Even without this insulation layer alfalfa can stand temperatures between 5 and 15 degrees F depending on the variety planted and past management.
DAIRY STAR FILE PHOTO
A healthy alfalfa plant versus a plant affected by winter kill is shown. Mul�ple factors including snow cover, temperatures, fall hardening, plant health and soil fer�lity, and moisture all affect alfalfa plants.
Keep in mind the winter hardiness of the variety will directly determine how cold the plant taproot can handle before suffering winter damage. Plant health may be inuenced by the age of the stand, and previous pest and cutting management. Older stands are more likely to see winter injury as are alfalfa elds with
One simple step can make all the difference
previous unmanaged insect and pest issues during the growing season. For those stands during which an extra cutting may have been taken between approximately Sept. 1 and Oct. 15 may also be at greater risk if there was not enough time for carbohydrate accumulation. Also keep in mind that 6 inches of stubble left will directly
impact how much snow is retained on the eld. Soil pH, fertility, and moisture may also play into winter injury potential. Stands grown on well drained soils, with a pH above 6.6 and high fertility, particularly potassium, are less likely to see winter injury. Thinking specically in the Stearns, Benton, and Morrison area, we had a lot of rain to end the season that inuenced harvest of grains. This same rain may also play a very important role for alfalfa winter injury in this area come spring time. Especially on those poorly drained soils we may see a greater risk of winter injury due to that increased soil moisture. Winter injury will also be inuenced by what time alfalfa started going into dormancy. Once nighttime temperatures drop below 40 degrees F, the plant begins the process of hardening. During this process cells begin the process of removing water from the cell and binding the remaining water in the cell into compounds that will not freeze. Sugars will also accumulate within these cells to help further lower the freezing point of these cells 1 to 2 degrees F. If the timeframe for this process was not long enough this may lead to issues this spring. For more information on winter injury factors please visit the UMN Extension website or call the Benton County Extension Ofce at (320) 968-5081.
EQUIPMENT ON HAND!
Calf Coats Tag #U03350 2013 Case IH Magnum 315, MFD, PS, 1,500 Hrs., Lux. Cab, Susp. .. $169,900 (A)
DeLaval calf coats keep newborn calves housed in cold climates warm. Calf coats promote healthy growth and ensure future performance
Tag #U04107 2015 Case IH Magnum 240, CVT, 560 Hrs. ......................... $155,900 (C)
Bovadine® Navel Dip Bovadine Navel Dip has been specifically formulated to dry out and protect the umbilical cord of the newborn animal. This 2% iodine formula reduces the risk of infection during the most critical stage of a calf’s life.
Tag #U03255 Tag #U03154 2012 H&S TS5126, tandem axle, 1000 PTO ................................. $20,900 (A)
2014 H&S 5120, 1000 PTO ....$13,900 (A
2012 Case SR220, 2120 hrs, Cab & heat, mech, hyd QA, 2 spd $20,000 (C)
Feedtech® Calf DFM
Feedtech® Colostrum Booster Powder
Feedtech® Colostrum Supplement Gel
Feedtech® Electrolte
United-Suckow Dairy Supply 563-422-5355 West Union, IA
563-864-7417 Postville, IA
Tag #U04213 2015 Case SV280, cab w/HVAC, 2 spd, pilot, 1880 hrs, loaded ............. $27,900 (C)
Tag #U02672
ALLENTON, WI 262.629.4104 COLUMBUS, WI 920.623.9000
www.farmersinc.com
Dairy prole
Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019 • Page 39
with Mike Hess of Foley, Minn.
Mike Hess Foley, Minn. Benton County 90 cows How did you get into farming? I’ve been farming my whole life. What are your thoughts and concerns about the dairy industry for the next year? I hope it gets better. What is the latest technology you implemented on your farm and the purpose for it? I haven’t upgraded anything in 20 years on the dairy side. What is a management practice you changed in the past year that has beneted you? I watch the X’s and O’s a lot closer because the prices are so tight. I keep an eye on feed prices, and I breed the cows back sooner to increase days in milk. What cost-saving steps have you implemented during low milk prices? I do not spend money unless I have to. How do you retain a good working relationship with your employees? I treat them right and make them feel like they’re part of the farm.
DANNA SABOLIK/DAIRY STAR
Mike Hess (center) and his employees – (from leŌ) Jason Gapinski, Stephanie Ponsness and Tom Schesers – milk 90 cows on his dairy farm in Benton County near Foley, Minn.
Tell us about a skill you possess that makes dairy farming easier for you. I like working with numbers and analyzing the markets. What do you enjoy most about dairy farming? Being my own boss, working with great employees and not commuting to work.
What advice would you give other dairy farmers? Watch your numbers, and needs come before wants.
What has been your biggest accomplishment while dairy farming? That I’m still doing it after 25 years.
What has been the best purchase you’ve ever made on your farm? Twenty-ve years ago I put a manure pit in. It’s sure nice when it’s cold out, and I get to use the manure for the crops. Everything else takes money to buy it, but that makes me money.
What are your plans for your dairy in the next year and ve years? I’d like to grow my steer raising operation. I feed out 250 now, but I’d like to grow the beef raising side of the business. I
don’t want to expand the dairy if there’s already too much milk in the market. How do you or your family like to spend time when you are not doing chores? I like to go to the gym and lift weights or go out with friends.
You Are Invited! 2019 Triple-Hil Sires Meetings
5 Locations in WI & IA!
Tue. Feb 26 @ 12 PM Platteville Golf & Country Club 6729 N. Water Street Platteville, WI 53818 RSVP by Feb. 22: 301-331-0674
Wed. Feb 27 @12 PM: Pizza Ranch 900 W. Main Street Waupun, WI 53963 RSVP by Feb. 22: 301-331-0674
Tue. March 12 @ 10 AM: CAM Center W8872 Pine Road Thorp, WI 54771 RSVP by March 6: 715-773-2240
Wed. March 13 @ 10:30 AM: Mabe’s Pizza 110 E. Water Street Decorah, IA 52101 RSVP by March 6: 301-491-3154 Guest Speaker: Ralph Petersheim
Panel Discussion with: Harry Weier,Tom Kearns, Kris Wild
Thur. March 14 @ 10 AM: Windy Tree Cafe 101 E. Main Street Riceville, IA 50466 RSVP by March 6: 301-491-3154 Guest Speaker: Ralph Petersheim
(Breeder of Hydro & Hold Up)
All Locations: Free lunch Semen discounts The bulls that were bred to be cows
Bring your Questions! /HW·V GLVFXVV KRZ WR EUHHG IRU SURÀWDEOH FRZV
Page 40 • Dairy Star • Saturday, February 9, 2019
Ask about our Velocity™ family of teat dips! Velocity • Chlorine dioxide pre & post milking teat dip • 12.5% emollient package provides excellent skin conditioning • Vivid green color provides confirmation of dipped teats • Long lasting efficacy – remains effective up to one week after mixing
Velocity Pre • Chlorine dioxide pre-dip • Can be dipped, sprayed or foamed • Specially formulated surfactants aid in cleanability • Highly effective against key environmental mastitis-causing organisms
Your Local GEA Hygiene Dealers: Sioux Dairy Equipment, Inc. Midwest Livestock Systems Centre Dairy Equipment Fuller’s Milker Center, Inc. Advanced Leedstone, Inc. Monroe WestfaliaSurge Rock Valley, IA Menomonie, WI • 715-235-5144 Sauk Centre,Dairy MN Solutions Lancaster, WI • 800-887-4634 Richland Center, WI Melrose, MN Monroe, WI •712-476-5608 608-325-2772• 800-962-4346 Pine Island, MN • 800-233-8937 320-352-5762 • 800-342-2697 Colton, SD 608-647-4488 • 800-772-4770 • 800-996-3303 Sioux Falls, SD • 800-705-1447 J. Gile Dairy320-256-3303 Equipment, Inc. Sioux Dairy Service Equipment, Inc. 800-944-1217 Beatrice, NE • 800-742-5748 Central Ag Supply, Inc. Cuba City, WI • 608-744-2661 Glencoe, MN Centre Dairy Equipment and Supply Inc. Rock Valley, IA Edgerton, MN Baraboo, WI • 608-356-8384 320-864-5575 • 877-864-5575 Sauk Centre, MN 712-476-5608 • 800-962-4346 Chemical Sales 507-920-8626 Monroe WestfaliaSurge / Leedstone, Inc. Juneau, WI • 920-386-2611 320-352-5762 • 800-342-2697 Inc. Koehn, Inc. Melrose, MNMidwest Livestock Systems, Colton, SD Tri County Dairy Supply, Inc. Monroe, WI • 608-325-2772 • 800-996-3303 Eastern Iowa Dairy Systems, Inc. 877-608-3877 Menomonie, WI • 715-235-5144 Service 800-944-1217 Fitzgerald, Janesville, WI • 800-822-7662 Glencoe, MNOwen, WI • 715-229-4740 Epworth, IA •Inc. 563-876-3087 Edgerton, MN Elkader, IA • 563-245-2560 320-864-5575 • 877-864-5575 Preston Dairy Equipment Pine Island, MN • 800-233-8937 Chemical Sales 507-920-8626 Plainview, MN Sparta, WI Fitzgerald, Inc. Fuller’s Milker Center, Inc. Sioux Falls, MN • 800-705-1447 507-534-3161 • 800-548-2540 608-269-3830 • 1-888-863-0227 Elkader, IA • 563-245-2560 Lancaster, WI • 800-887-4634 Beatrice, NE • 800-742-5748 Woodville, WI • 866-467-4717