FIELD REPORT / RAPPORT DE TERRAIN
Greetings from the East Coast! It’s undoubtedly been quite a year! Things have certainly been more challenging with fewer in-person events, but for the few that we’ve had we’ve been working hard in the Atlantic to increase the visibility of the Jersey Breed. Jersey Atlantic has been a pleasure to work with, their welcoming and kind can-do attitude, combined with many excellent ideas and initiatives, has been a boon to the Atlantic for the breed. The region has gained quite a few memberships through their introductory membership offer; even the president of the NS/NL Holstein Branch is now a member! We’ve made strides to bring the breed equal visibility through shows as well. Last year Atlantic Holstein Promotions offered a virtual show with coloured breed classes and we had an excellent participation rate (70 entries in total of all breeds!). Last fall, with the advent of the “Atlantic Bubble”, a small window presented itself to safely host a major show in the Atlantic. For the first time, coloured breeds were invited to participate in the Atlantic Championship Dairy Show. The show drew 30 coloured breed entries – 20 of those Jerseys! Total entry for the show was 120 head. There is still lots of room for growth in the Atlantic; both in acquiring business with non-member Jersey herds, along with many traditionally Holstein only herds. On my farm visits through the Atlantic, I have seen several Holstein producers adding Jerseys to their herds. I feel that due to current market conditions, appreciation is growing for the unique advantages that Jerseys have to offer. The pandemic has presented many challenges, but it has also strengthened consumer desire for quality, local prod-
Natasha on the job / Natasha au travail
ucts. On-farm processors like Brosens’ Skye Glen Creamery are helping to meet this demand, while also helping to boost the breed’s visibility in the region and show how Jerseys can meet (and excel in) the needs of on-farm processors. While this year is continuing to be a challenge with COVID-19 still at the forefront, it has certainly been rewarding to work with both Jersey Canada and Jersey Atlantic, and I can’t wait to see what the future of Jerseys in the Atlantic holds. Stay safe and healthy! Until next time, Tasha
44 JUNE / JUIN 2021 Canadian Jersey Breeder / Eleveur de Jersey Canadien
Natasha McKillop, Atlantic Field Service Rep Natasha started as Atlantic Field Service Business Partner with Holstein Canada in 2018 and was contracted by Jersey Canada through Holstein Canada to assist in the same role in 2020. She is passionate about helping producers use tools such as registration, classification, milk recording and genomic testing to maximize their profitability. Natasha is a firm believer that function follows form, and loves seeing cows with great production, conformation and longevity.
