May 25, 2024 Dairy Star - 3rd section

Small-town roots grow into nation-wide franchise

By Abby Wiedmeyer abby.w@dairystar.com

SAUK CITY, Wis. — With 970 restaurants in 26 states throughout America, the Culver’s franchise is wellknown for its famous ButterBurgers and frozen custard. When the rst Culver’s restaurant opened in Sauk City in 1984, however, popularity had yet to take hold.

“People didn’t know what frozen custard was, and they didn’t know what a ButterBurger was,” Craig Culver said. “We knew what we were doing because we had been in the business for a long time, but we just about didn’t make it that rst year.”

Culver was only 11 years old and his brother just 9 when their parents entered the restaurant business in 1961 with the purchase of an A&W franchise. Over the next 23 years, Culver’s parents sold the restaurant and bought it back twice before disenfranchising from A&W and starting the rst Culver’s in Sauk City in 1984.

From Sauk City with love

Culver said they lost money in the rst year, broke even the second year and became protable the third year. The franchise has grown steadily in the last 40 years to become a well-loved franchise. Culver said they could not be successful without their suppliers making quality products available.

“Our roots are right here, small-town Wisconsin,” Culver said. “The dairy farmers have been our neighbors and friends and suppliers for a long, long time. We depend on them in a big way.”

The franchise sources the dairy products they use from three creameries in Wisconsin, Florida and Missouri, with the majority of the products coming from the Wisconsin location.

Annually, the franchise uses 1.7 million pounds of butter, 9.4 million pounds of sliced American cheese and 19 million pounds of cheese curds, and sells 2.25 million gallons of chocolate custard and 7.2 million gallons of vanilla custard.

Menu items also include sliced Swiss cheese, Wisconsin cheddar cheese sauce and blue cheese crumbles.

Custard is made in small batches in each store. The avor is more unique than ice cream due to its lower temperature at serving. Taste buds

can absorb the avor better because they are not numb from the cold temperature. The rest of the menu items are cooked to order, ensuring freshness and quality in every location. The concept of the Butter-

Burger came to Culver before they launched their rst store. He was talking with a friend from the Milwaukee area and told him about a burger joint that buttered the bun and called it a butter burger. The frozen

custard came when Culver was attending college in Oshkosh and stopped at a frozen custard stand for a vanilla cone.

ABBY WIEDMEYER/DAIRY STAR

Craig Culver takes a break May 8 outside the original Culver’s restaurant in Sauk City, Wisconsin. Culver founded the Culver’s franchise with his parents, George and Ruth Culver, in 1984.

“When I heard butter burgers, a lightbulb went off,” Culver said. “I thought I would do that if I ever got the chance, and we did get the chance.”

Culver’s connection to the dairy industry began with his parents. His mother grew up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, and his dad had a career as a eld representative for Wisconsin Dairies before entering the restaurant business. The close connection has prompted the family to remain vocal in their appreciation of farmers and support of the National FFA Organization.

In a 10-year partnership with FFA, Culver’s has donated 1,000 blue jackets to the organization and given over

$100,000 to chapters through a FFA essay contest. They have donated over $900,000 through the Scoops of Thanks Day, which offers a scoop of custard for $1 and donates all proceeds to FFA.

They also promote a program called To Farmers with Love, which has given more than 3,000 farmers a complimentary meal through a social media campaign that nominates farmers for the freebie.

Culver’s continues to promote dairy with new avors of the day which have been displayed on signboards in front of the store since day No. 1. While quality products are a priority, Culver said service is what keeps people coming

due to the large amount of dairy products from Wisconsin that the restaurant features on its menu.

back to the restaurant. When hiring team members, he said they focus on creating leaders.

“Our business is about people and surrounding ourselves with the right people who know how to say please and thank you and my pleasure, and mean it,” Culver said. “It boils down to leadership.”

When someone is hired at a Culver’s location for any position, even corporate, they are required to spend their rst week working in a restaurant. This allows them to connect with the guests and learn the business from the ground up.

Culver tells new franchisees that just because they put a

blue oval road sign out front of their place does not mean they are guaranteed success.

“You’ve got to drive the business each and every day, no different than farming,” Culver said. “I like to think of ourselves as the little guy that’s going to do whatever it takes.”

ABBY WIEDMEYER/DAIRY STAR

Craig Culver visits with team members May 8 at the original Culver’s restaurant in Sauk City, Wisconsin. Culver grew up in Sauk City and remains a Wisconsin resident today.

ABBY WIEDMEYER/DAIRY STAR

Craig Culver visits the original Culver’s restaurant May 8 in Sauk City, Wisconsin. The phrase, “Gree ngs from Wisconsin with love,” is

Frozen ground, leaking water

Pipe breaks before the frost is gone for the Rakotz family

By Emily Breth emily.b@star-pub.com

ST. ANTHONY, Minn. — With over 2 feet of frost left in the ground, Dennis Rakotz, a partner at Rakotz Dairy, had to make phone calls to nd someone who could dig through the frozen ground so a busted water pipe could be xed.

“We tried to do it ourselves but didn’t have something big enough to break the frost,” Rakotz said.

This was not the rst time the pipe had to be repaired. In 2013, during the construction of their new barn, the water pipe was punctured while drilling a hole for one of the poles. Rakotz milks about 185 cows in a double-8 parallel parlor near St. Anthony.

“We were able to x it easily then,” Rakotz said. “We were able to splice the line back together.”

For about 10 years, the splice held with no issues. And then, in March 2023, the pipe sprung a new leak.

“The tting just wore out and water slowly worked its way through the dirt and frost,” Rakotz said. “It had to be leaking a few days before it started to pool next to the barn. We didn’t think anything of it at rst. We didn’t realize it was a leak until the morning and there was water coming into the barn.”

Rakotz had Kotzer Excavating Inc. come with an excavator to dig up the ground so they could reach the pipe. Because it was off-season, many workers were called in from home. Fortunately, there was at least enough daylight to get it xed and the weather was not unpleasant to work in.

“They had to bust it apart little by little,” Rakotz said. “It took them all day to dig the hole. The crew was out here around 8 in the morning and only left at 4:30 p.m.”

While waiting for the excavation company, Rakotz got to work looking at electrical lines. He had a good idea of where the lines were but did not want to risk it, so he called an electrical company.

“Calling the electric company saved us,” Rakotz said. “We didn’t know exactly where all of our power lines were, and there ended up being four main lines that ran right next to where we had to dig to get to the water line.”

After digging past the electrical lines and through the frost, the crew faced two more challenges before the water line could be reached. The rst was digging through sand and mud.

“This is all sand here, so after they busted through all of the frost, they had to keep digging the sand out a couple of different times,” Rakotz said. “It kept collapsing, and they had to essentially start over every time it did.”

Another aid that helped them through once they hit the sand was a hydro-vac. With the machine, the crew could prevent mud or water from ooding back into the hole.

After reaching the depth of the line, the crew worked their way under the barn and around a pole to get to the line. By the end of the day, the hole ended up being about 8 feet around and was dug out under the barn.

“The pipe was on the inside of the pole, and the leak was right behind it,” Rakotz said.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Crew members from Kotzer Excava ng Inc. work on reaching a leaking water line in March 2023 at Rakotz Dairy near St. Anthony, Minnesota. The crew had to dig through more than 2 feet of frozen ground to reach the line.

Udder health starts in dry period

Trace minerals have signicant impact

By Abby Wiedmeyer abby.w@dairystar.com

NEW PRAGUE, Minn. — The highest risks for intramammary infections in dairy cattle occur at two peak times: right after dry-off and during calving and immediate postpartum, according to Dr. Marcello Guadagnini.

“It is clear that the dry period and early lactation play a key role in udder health,” Guadagnini said. “We have two spikes due to milk cessation and udder remodeling, and the dysregulated immune system and oxidative stress.”

Guadagnini is the international technical manager for Axiota Animal Health. He spoke about the connection between udder health and trace minerals May 7 in a National Mastitis Council webinar.

Guadagnini said a good way to measure udder health is with somatic cell count or Dairy Herd Improvement Association records.

In a study of 156,000 lactations across 681 farms over two years in Spain, the average occurrence of subclinical mastitis at herd level was 22%, with many farms struggling to stay under the recommended 15% threshold. Guadagnini said that proper dry cow management is needed for healthy udders.

“I like to relate most of these issues to milk production losses or negative consequences into lactation,” Guadagnini said. “You not only get the infection but also the activation of the immune system, which is actually costing energy.”

Guadagnini focused on zinc, manganese, copper and selenium for the discussion.

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Because selenium has received more attention over the last decade, Guadagnini said it is important to realize the importance of zinc as a key for over 300 enzymes in the body. Copper is key to modulating inammation. Manganese is especially important during heat stress, and all are critical to establish an effective antioxidant system. Of course, selenium is important to the immune system and its resistance.

Because trace minerals are fed orally, there are not clinical signs of deciency, Guadagnini said.

“We might be tempted to think that just because we feed the trace minerals and supply them orally, the trace mineral status is always optimal,” Guadagnini said. “The reality is that when we start from an optimal trace mineral level, we can see a lot of things that get impaired when we go below that, and the rst thing is immunity.”

Guadagnini said producers should not only look for subclinical signs but also think in terms of optimal mineral levels. He described two environments: deciency or times of specic demand. Deciency often happens when cows are on pasture, Guadagnini said.

A time of specic demand may occur during an infection or activation of the immune system because there is a higher consumption of trace minerals during those times. This can include transporting cows and vaccinating cows. In the case of replacement animals, rapid growth can also cause a trace mineral deciency.

Dry off and early lactation are also critical times. The most recent guidelines from the Nutrient Requirements of Dairy Cattle have increased requirements for copper, zinc and manganese in both far-off and close-up cows. Selenium has been kept the same because it has a legal limit, Guadagnini said.

“This increase shows that modern cows really need a lot of trace minerals to have proper immune function and to start the lactation in the best way,” Guadagnini said. “Just because we feed trace minerals, it is not given that the trace mineral level is optimal.”

The trace mineral system is a multi-phase, dynamic process. Trace minerals are exchanged between plasma and where they are needed and used for all structural demands, such as the keratin plug in the teat canal or to produce antioxidants.

Especially when milk production is high at dry off, there is a spike of zinc and plasma concentration. This may be because zinc is needed to remodel the udder as it is a high-replicating tissue and needs to facilitate the migration of neutrophils from the bloodstream to remodel the udder.

“If we think about when approaching calving, we need to know that part of these trace minerals will be dedicated to be transferred to the fetus to generate mineral storage in the fetal liver,” Guadagnini said. “Especially when we approach calving, we have a signicant transfer to colostrum. So, whatever we provide to the last trimester, part of that will transfer to the fetus so it will not be fully available to the cow.”

Moreover, in early postpartum, free radicals are produced due to a fast metabolism. If an efcient antioxidant system is lacking, oxidative stress often occurs, which is a risk factor for post-partum disease and mastitis.

Guadagnini said injectable trace minerals can help cows maintain an optimal level and can be used even when oral trace minerals are fed. The injectable trace minerals from Axiota Animal Health have been shown to be safe when used according to label instructions. Most importantly, studies in different geographies show that using trace minerals during periods of high demand, such as the dry period, can help reduce mastitis and improve udder health.

“All of our studies have been focused on prevention,” Guadagnini said. “As we saw, once we have mastitis, we have a big loss. What we really want to avoid is getting to the disease.”

DAIRY ST R25

A look back at 5, 10 and 20 years ago

5 years ago

A new beginning

Ryan Opsahl, of Hinckley, Minnesota, brought dairy cows back to his grandparents’ farm in October 2018. Only six weeks after being released from prison, Opsahl had the barn back in shape and brought in 37 cows. Opsahl said he would walk past the barn every day and knew he had to give it a chance. As time continued, Opsahl planned on increasing his herd size to 72 milking cows so the barn would be full. He also wanted to try new things with his herd that his grandparents did not do such as using A.I. and letting the cows outside after milking. Opsahl said he wanted to continue to milk cows for the rest of his life.

Wilhelm continues farming for the cows

John Wilhelm, of Princeton, Minnesota, began a dairy farm in October 2014. His dad, Mark, and uncle, Tim, used to dairy but sold the cattle before Wilhelm was able to take over. When Wilhelm started dairying, he searched for forages that would t his relative feed quality goals and price range. Another way Wilhelm countered the market was by making breeding decisions based on components, net merit, health traits and daughter pregnancy rate. Wilhelm said he would rather spend upfront on a straw of semen than pay later when a cow comes in to milk.

A career to celebrate

After milking for 40 years, Craig Dierickx and Alice Carroll-Dierickx, of Monticello, Wisconsin, sold their milking herd June 7, 2019. Dierickx milked his own herd in Iowa for eight years before he moved to Wisconsin to be with Carroll-Dierickx, who managed her own herd on her family’s century farm. The couple farmed 140 acres where they raised three children. When their children left the farm, the couple welcomed other neighboring kids to help and learn about the dairy community. Carroll-Dierickx said they wanted to give others the chance to know what farming life is like.

Milk quality top priority for Grahl

Adam and Elizabeth Grahl, of Eden, Wisconsin, were awarded the milk quality award from the National Mastitis Council in the silver category in 2019. Elizabeth said she would prefer to take the time to do the job correctly than go through the work without this attention to detail and have a poor-quality product. When it comes to teaching family or employees milking protocols, Elizabeth was in the barn doing it with them rather than using written protocols. Every morning, Elizabeth could be found in the barn helping milk the herd of 260 cows. The couple also cleaned their stalls regularly and used sand to help keep their herd healthy.

SUPER SPECIALS

10 years ago

Contributing to her farmʼs success

Karli Moger, of Rollingstone, Minnesota, was named the 2014 Minnesota FFA Star in Production Placement. Moger grew up working on her family’s dairy farm where they milked 80 cows in a double-6 herringbone parlor. By Moger’s sophomore year, LewistonAltura FFA adviser Ryan Steele encouraged her to ll out the application because he knew how much work she put in on the farm. Moger said she spent more time lling out the application than doing her homework. Moving forward, Moger wanted to stay active on her parents’ dairy farm and become the fourth generation to manage the farm.

A dairy breakfast tradition

Kodesh Dairy, near Rice Lake, Wisconsin, held the Barron County June Dairy Breakfast at their farm in 2014. That year, there was expected to be over 3,000-4,000 people in attendance. While this was the rst year the Kodesh family hosted the event, it marked the 40th year of the annual event. To celebrate, there was a thenand-now display of tractors and pickups from 1975 and 2014. The rst year Barron County had a breakfast on the farm, they had around 200 people show up. Duane and Nancy Kodesh, owners of the dairy, started farming in 1990 on one of Duane’s father’s farms. In 1997, they purchased the home farm.

20

years ago

Luthens complete environmentally friendly expansion

Daryl Luthens, of Hutchinson, Minnesota, aimed to complete an environmentally friendly expansion to his farm when he wanted to expand his herd. He grew his herd from 550 to 900 when he had an additional freestall barn built and re-did his milking setup. In order to remain environmentally friendly, Luthens installed a composting manure system. The farm earned the Environmental Quality Assurance Designation from Minnesota Milk and received a signed certicate of appreciation from past Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture Gene Hugoson. Luthens farmed with his sons, Shane, Brandon, Justin and Garrett, and daughter, Jackie, who were all active on the farm.

Vagts open door for next generation

Don Vagts, of West Union, Iowa, had worked with his son, Mark, side by side for 10 years by 2004. At the time, the pair had been milking in their new double-12 vertical life parlor for around half a year. The parlor was completed Nov. 24, 2003. Don, his wife, Audrey, along with Mark and his wife, Joan, and their daughter, Erin, and son, Andrew, were active in the dairy community and helped on the farm. Erin served as a dairy princess. When Don started milking in 1957, he started with only three heifers and slowly built his herd. The family reached a count of 160 milking cows and were hoping to increase to 200.

TUESDAY, JUNE 11, 2024 • 9 AM CST

STARTING IN 2024, THE AUC TIONS ARE ON TUESDAYS! LUNCH ONSITE BY THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH LADIES

This Auction will offer over 900 lots in total. A Large Assortment of Tractors (54x4’s, 10+ MFD’s,

Attachments, Trucks, Trailers, Fencing and more!

”Effective use of genomics to improve dairy cow health and fertility” (Uso ecaz de la genómica para mejorar la salud y fertilidad de vacas lecheras), presented in Spanish, headlines the May 30 Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council webinar. The free webinar starts at 1 p.m. Francisco Peñagaricano, University of Wisconsin-Madison, will serve as the instructor for this one-hour webinar. To register for this webinar, visit https://bit.ly/DCRCMay30Web. If you are a DCRC member and cannot attend the live program, you may access the webinar at www.dcrcouncil.org after June 13.

Learn the latest information in dairy nutrition and management by attending the Four-State Dairy Nutrition and Management Conference June 5-6 at the Grand River Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

This conference will feature the latest information to improve productivity and prot.

“Dairy farmers and the industry can expect two days of timely topics and discussion,” said Larry Tranel, a dairy specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and a member of the planning committee. “This is a great opportunity to learn more about topics ranging from dairy nutrition to reproduction, and to network with others in the industry.”

The Balchem chemical company will present a pre-conference symposium focusing on amino acid nutrition. Mark Hanigan, Virginia Tech, will cover amino bioavailability. Alex Hristov, Penn State University, will talk about histamine as a limiting amino acid, and Chan Lee, Ohio State University, will be discussing cow response to lysine. Jose Santos, Florida State University, will help participants learn about amino acid balancing for early lactation cows.

Speakers include Michigan State’s Mike VandeHaar, discussing feeding and managing cows for high production and health. Bill Weiss, Ohio State University, will talk about feeding to reach higher peaks, and Jose Santos will talk about feeding to prevent mineral related diseases in early lactation.

The other general session includes Rick Grant, Miner Institute, who will discuss the optimum ratio of corn silage and alfalfato-grass in dairy diets. Alex Hristiv will cover how feeding strategies can reduce the carbon footprint of milk, and Luiz Ferraretto, University of Wisconsin, will talk about how different forage physical and chemical characteristics inuence ration performance.

Select breakout topics include:

— Balancing for milk protein and butterfat in lactation diets.

— Understanding ketosis: Beyond the norm, before the storm.

— Feeding strategically throughout lactation to promote milk and health.

— Overcrowding and response to the formulated ration.

— Impact of dry matter intake during the transition period on uterine health and fertility.

— Fatty acid supplementation strategies for early lactation cows.

— Optimizing IVP embryo transfer in dairy herds.

— Strategies to improve heifer reproductive performance and reduce heifer rearing costs.

Perdue Animal Nutrition’s post-conference symposium includes Geoffrey Zanton, USDA Dairy Forage Research Center, talking about the latest research in dairy cows’ response to protein and amino acid supplementation. Kein Harvatine, Penn State University, will discuss the importance of de novo fatty acids in driving milk fat synthesis, and Adam Lock, Michigan State University, will provide insight into the importance of preformed fatty acids in driving milk fat synthesis.

In addition to the educational program, there is a trade show with over 40 companies exhibiting their latest products, evening receptions and plenty of time to network with other participants. Continuing Education Units are available.

This conference is a collaborative effort of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, University of Illinois Extension, University of Minnesota Extension and University of Wisconsin-Extension.

Walk-in registration is accepted. Register at fourstatedairy.org/registration.html.

For more information, contact in northwest Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230 or fredhall@iastate.edu; in northeast Iowa, Jennifer Bentley, 563-382-2949 or jbentley@iastate.edu; in east central Iowa, Larry Tranel, 563-583-6496 or tranel@iastate. edu; in Ames, Gail Carpenter, 515-294-9085 or ajcarpen@iastate.edu.

Are you prepared for a crisis on your farm? Join Midwest Dairy from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 6 as we provide tips, tools and resources to prepare for and manage an on-farm crisis. Attendees will review the core components of a farm crisis plan, ways to prepare after the plan is developed and critical steps to take in the event of a crisis.

While you may not be able to predict a crisis on your farm, you can and should prepare for one. Anticipation and preparation will help your business recover, so should you ever experience an on-farm crisis, you will be ready to take immediate action steps that can help you, your family, employees and the overall farming operation mitigate risk and resume normal operation. Register at https://bit.ly/midwestwebinar.

Graziers from across Wisconsin, both novices and seasoned professionals, are invited to participate in a series of pasture walks featuring Jim Gerrish, a globally recognized expert, researcher and author on managed grazing. Hosted on three consecutive days in locations across Wisconsin, these events promise to be both educational and inspirational for anyone involved in or interested in the practice of grazing.

— June 11: Baraboo, Wisconsin. Topics include the value of managed grazing and forage quality and management. Hosted by the Sauk Soil & Water Improvement Group. Register at https://www.sswig.org/event-details/grazing-workshop-with-jim-gerrishor or contact Sauk County Land Resources and Environment Department at 608-355-3245 or email conservation@saukcountywi.gov.

— June 12: Burlington, Wisconsin. Topics include structuring a sustainable business and developing year-round and multi-species grazing. Hosted by the Kenosha Regenerative Producers. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rotationalgrazing-workshop-with-jim-gerrish-tickets-790104332327 or call 920-342-9504.

— June 13: Fredonia, Wisconsin. Topics include nancial analysis of a grazing enterprise and developing year-round grazing systems. Hosted by the Ozaukee Grazing Farm Families. Register at https://www. eventbrite.com/e/ozaukees-jim-gerrishworkshop-tickets-795373763337or call 414403-8908.

The I-29 Moo University Dairy Webinar Series continues from noon to 1 p.m. June 13.

In this webinar, Nesli Akdeniz, assistant professor and extension specialist in Biological Systems Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, will discuss how increasing temperatures and extreme weather events affect the design and ventilation of dairy buildings. She will also cover ventilation techniques that enhance airow rates and considerations for energy efciency and reducing ventilation-related greenhouse gas emissions.

Akdeniz’s extension program focuses on livestock buildings, energy-efcient ventilation design, air quality and greenhouse gas emissions. More information about her extension program is available on her website, https://controlledag.wisc.edu.

There is no fee to participate in the webinar; however, registration is required at least one hour before the webinar. Register at https://go.iastate.edu/DESIGN24.

For more information, contact: in Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230; in Minnesota, Jim Salfer, 320-203-6093; or in South Dakota, Patricia Villamediana, 605-688-4116.

Lameness can cause a ripple effect of health and safety issues across a dairy farm. The Hoof Management Workshop presented by Professional Dairy Producers will give hoof trimmers, herdspersons, nutritionists, veterinarians and others a deep dive into the prevention strategies, handling skills and treatment options that result in optimal hoof health on dairy farms of all sizes.

The one-day workshop will be held June 20 at Maier Farms LLC, 7085 Schum-

acher Road, Waunakee, Wisconsin. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. with the program concluding at 3:30 p.m. Simultaneous Spanish translation will be provided for the entire workshop.

The on-farm location provides a living case study for participants to explore the key factors that help ensure the longevity and productivity of dairy cows. The program will include a general session for all attendees to practice stockmanship skills and put theory into practical application while implementing handling skills in pens with dairy cattle.

Attendees will break into smaller groups to attend three repeating sessions focused on the technical essentials of the footbath, identifying treatment options for chronically lame cows, and discussing practices that create continuous improvements in hoof health to reduce the strain lameness places on cows and team members.

This program is accredited for up to 4 Dairy AdvanCE continuing education credits and up to 4 ARPAS continuing education credits.

Nursing their way to success

Burkholders use alternative calf rearing method

By Amy Kyllo amy.k@star-pub.com

CLAREMONT, Minn. —

Dwight Burkholder has found a successful, long-term calf feeding solution for his dairy farm using nurse cows.

“This is only one way of many right ways to feed calves,” Burkholder said. “There would be many good reasons not to do it this way.”

Burkholder milks 60 cows on a grass-fed dairy along with his wife, Darla, and their four youngest children: Meredith, Matthew, Micah and Angela.

Burkholder has fed calves using nurse cows since 2017. He calves seasonally during March and April and occasionally into May.

Burkholder keeps 20-24 heifer calves per year. These calves require 7-8 nurse cows.

For the Burkholders, using nurse cows has helped solve post-weaning slumps, cross sucking and labor issues.

“The labor of feeding calves has just literally evaporated,” Burkholder said.

Burkholder said this is an expensive way to feed calves,

but that this method satises what he and his family were after.

“So much of that potential is set in those rst months, that how do you possibly put a dollar gure on that?” Burkholder said.

Money was not the main driver behind the decision to use nurse cows.

“That wasn’t the calculation when we started,” Burkholder said. “We’re not ‘bottom dollar’ (people). ... We’re more about lifestyle and things making sense managementwise.”

Burkholder originally raised calves in individual calf hutches. In 2006, after they switched to grazing and seasonal calving, they moved to mob feeding.

Burkholder said while this was not a bad way, mob feeding was time-consuming. It took two people the entire milking time to feed calves.

When one calf got sick, the entire pen would get sick. Milk temperature was a challenge as well. They fed half fresh, unpasteurized milk and half milk replacer made with hot water to warm the milk.

One of the most frustrating issues Burkholder said was cross sucking. The Burkholders used various methods to eliminate the practice such as following the milk with warm

water, switching nipples frequently and using weaners.

“I hated it; I just dreaded all this stuff,” Burkholder said.

Burkholder said they wanted to keep their calves on milk for 12 weeks, but often by 8-9 weeks, they were burned out with the calf feeding chores and would wean the calves.

The post-weaning slump was an issue as well.

“No matter what we did ... the calves would go from nice-looking fat, eshy, beautiful calves to sort of scrawny,” Burkholder said. ... “They just didn’t look as thrifty.”

Burkholder said the calves were underdeveloped to utilize

pasture when weaned.

“They couldn’t get the groceries they needed,” Burkholder said.

Burkholder began looking into alternative methods of feeding calves and found the nursing method.

Turn to BURKHOLDER | Page 11

Auctioneer: Chris Hill Pedigrees: John Burket

AMY KYLLO/DAIRY STAR

Dwight Burkholder smiles April 1 in his nurse cow area on his dairy farm near Claremont, Minnesota. Burkholder has been feeding the calves on his 60-cow dairy using nurse cows since 2017.

Advancing genetics through genomics

Dairy farmers share how they use data to make improvements

By Stacey Smart stacey.s@dairystar.com

PIXLEY, Calif. — A cow at Jer-ZBoyz Ranch was on her way to becoming a bull mother when genomic testing revealed that she was not exactly the animal her owners thought she was. Results showed that her registered sire was incorrect, and she was out of a herd bull.

“Fortunately, we caught it before calves were born and bulls headed off to stud because the impact would have nancially been a big loss for us,” said Tim Baumgartner, genetics and marketing manager at Jer-Z-Boyz Ranch. “Parentage conrmation is one of the reasons we test. Genomics has helped us make sure we follow procedures and protocols in ensuring identication is right. Genomics has helped us be better dairymen.”

Baumgartner was part of a genomics webinar March 19 sponsored by the Dairy Calf and Heifer Association. The panel also included Dr. Asha Miles, research geneticist in the Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory at the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service; Tony Lopes, dairy farmer and owner of Tony L. Lopes Dairy and Precision Genetic Solutions; and Shelby Smith, product owner of cattle genomics at Neogen Corporation.

Lopes’ involvement with genomic testing began in 2016 due to an oversupply of replacement heifers. Lopes is the fourth generation on the family farm near Gustine, where 5,000 cows are milked at four facilities. The family also raises 12,000 beef-on-dairy calves. When stuck with too many heifers, Lopes used genomics as a culling tool.

Now, he looks to genomics to ensure the replacements he raises are of higher value than what he can nd elsewhere.

“From a lifetime prot potential, genomic testing is the best tool we’ve found to project an animal’s lifetime performance and ensure we aren’t paying more for our replacements than a producer down the road that’s buying replacements,” Lopes said. “Genomics allows us to get more out of our animals over the course of their lifetime.”

Like Baumgartner, Lopes also discovered parentage errors and inaccuracies early on in testing. A surprising discovery for Lopes was the frequency at which a bull was incorrectly identied as the sire of a calf and the wrong dam was being attributed to a calf in the maternity ward.

“This was eye-opening for us to tighten up our management in other areas and ensure the plan we were enacting was actually working,” Lopes said.

By 2018, Lopes eliminated conventional Holstein semen for making replacements because of the number of data points he had on his animals.

“If we were going to draw lines and set thresholds in the cow herd to make a replacement, it became critical that we had data to support our decision and not inadvertently make copies of all animals in our herd,” Lopes said.

Jer-Z-Boyz Ranch near Pixley began genomic testing in 2009. The technology helped the 5,000-cow Jersey operation advance its genetics program and expand into global markets.

“Genomics is a tremendous management tool for us,” Baumgartner said. “It

allows us to look at our herd as a whole and nd areas for improvement. We can then select bulls to make advancements in those sections. That’s where the glory of genomic testing comes in. We can test calves as soon as they’re born, and we know right away if we made progress where needed or if we need to go back in one more time to make sure we get to that level of success we’re trying to breed into.”

Dairy producers might wonder if the science behind genomics can be trusted. Miles said there are many checks and balances built into the system to ensure high-quality data.

“We’re constantly working to make sure we can deliver better solutions and assess our progress,” Miles said.

Miles said the USDA is studying genomic data from heifers born between 2021 and 2023 to determine how closely production records align with genomic evaluations.

“We’re consistently seeing genomic predictions outperforming the traditional pedigree-based predictions,” Miles said. “We’re getting signicant added value by adding that data to our models.”

A greater rate of genetic progress is the most compelling example of how the dairy industry has beneted from genomic data over the last 15 years, Miles said.

“The net merit for Holsteins dramatically increased once genomic prediction was implemented in 2009,” she said. “We can deliver predictions about an animal’s performance at birth without having to wait for them to calve and have their own lactation records.”

Neogen completed a six-year case study for a Midwest herd with approximately 8,000 heifer calves born yearly. This dairy tested all heifers at birth and used results to determine which heifers to keep as replacements, and, of these, which ones to breed to sexed semen.

“Calves born at year zero had roughly the same net merit score as the industry average,” Smith said. “Over the course of six years, they were able to outpace the industry average. By year six, there was a $111 difference between calves from this herd and the industry average for net merit.”

Lopes said the ability to put revenueproducing potential into an animal, such as production traits, and reduce costs through health, fertility and longevity accelerates genetic progress and performance.

“When looking at how compelling the data is and how the optimization of these values can result in increased performance, it’s my belief that the producer using this tool in a precise and measured manner is going to have a profound competitive advantage when it comes to overall performance,” Lopes said.

As more producers participate and more data is produced, Miles said the industry can make better calculations.

“More data equals more accurate predictions,” she said. “Overall, this means better bulls will be available. Producers will have more options to improve the genetic base of their animals, even if they are not genomic testing in their own herds.”

Baumgartner is excited about the future of genomics and what it can offer Jer-Z-Boyz Ranch.

“We’ve just barely scratched the surface of what we can learn from DNA to discover what truly makes a cow protable,” Baumgartner said. “There are so many things to look forward to. Genomics is a great tool for us and is going to forever be part of the program here. The results speak for themselves.”

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Connelly surprised by triplets

PHOTO SUBMITTED

A cow licks one of her triplets May 20 at Kevin Connelly’s farm near Byron, Minnesota. Connelly said they knew the cow was having twins but did not know she was pregnant with triplets. He said it was the first time in his 30 years of dairy farming that a cow has had triplets. The cow had the first calf unassisted, the second calf was pulled, and the third came unassisted shortly after. The cow had two heifers and a bull.

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Ready to celebrate 400 years

Ickler, Spearman plan Quadricentennial Party ‘til the Cows Come Home dairy show

By Amy Kyllo amy.k@star-pub.com

KASSON, Minn. — In 1624, dairy cows came to the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts. Now, four centuries later, a celebration is being planned to celebrate their impact.

Robert Ickler, the FFA adviser at Triton High School, and Cadence Spearman, a graduating senior at Triton, are planning the Quadricentennial Party ‘til the Cows Come Home dairy show in honor of 400 years.

shows). If you’ve got animals, come party with us.”

The show is Spearman’s senior project. Spearman grew up on a swine, steer and crop farm and began showing dairy animals in junior high school. She also has been part of FFA since seventh grade.

“We need to remind people and celebrate how important that (dairy) industry is to all of us,” Ickler said. “What I’m looking forward to is just having a big cow party.”

The show will be held June 6-7 at the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Kasson. The rst day of the show will include a tting contest, a showmanship contest with two age divisions, a burger bash for the community, and an awards ceremony for the winners of the tting and showmanship contests. The next morning will feature dairy shows with the colored breed classes followed by Holsteins at noon.

“We’re doing the best we can to plan a celebration for anyone who enjoys the dairy industry,” Ickler said. “If you don’t have animals, we have a burger bash. You can come watch (the

“I started to really love the (dairy) industry and wanted to make a big impact on it because it’s denitely made an impact on my life,” Spearman said.

Ickler said the show is meant to celebrate both current and past contributors to the dairy community.

“From the 1800s forward, if you didn’t have dairy, (in Minnesota) where would you be?” Ickler said. “Where would the state be and its historical evolution had there not been a dairy presence?”

Ickler grew up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin.

“Some of the most important lessons I have learned in life, I’ve learned from working with cows,” Ickler said. “The gratitude of having that opportunity to learn about life from working with those animals every day, that’s ... (why) I’m excited about celebrating this.”

Turn to QUADRICENTENNIAL | Page 15

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Cadence Spearman is a senior at Triton High School and is planning the Quadricentennial Party ‘ l the Cows Come Home dairy show as her senior project. The show is June 6-7 at the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Kasson, Minnesota.

Robert Ickler

Ickler was inspired with the idea about three years ago during a virtual FFA regional dairy judging contest. One of the questions on the test asked when dairy cows came to the U.S.

Ickler said he looked at the judging students and asked them when they were graduating. Three of the four were graduating in 2024, the 400th anniversary. Ickler told his students that an event should be planned. He decided a dairy show would be the best option.

“We needed something big and different and unique,” Ickler said. “Some of these kids that did the dairy judging like showing.”

He said the show gives students who do not own registered animals a place to show outside a fair.

“When

relaxed experience that will provide youth with development opportunities.

“They can grow as a tter, they can grow as a showman, and they can also grow in the industry ... by networking with other people and meeting different people from around the state,” Spearman said.

Planning began a year ago. The event is sponsored by the Triton FFA Alumni organization, so all donations went through that organization. They raised around $15,000 in monetary and product donations of cheese, ground beef and clippers. Ickler said they even received four donations of $1,000.

“We have been blessed with some great support,” Ickler said.

Ickler approached Spearman and asked her if she wanted to make the show her senior project. With this and other FFA events in which Spearman has participated, she has a lot on her resume even before she attends college, Ickler said.

ROBERT ICKLER, FFA ADVISER

“When you give a passionate, creative person free range on a brand-new thing and watch the ideas ow, (that) is a fun opportunity,” Ickler said.

Ickler said Spearman has learned how to create a website, raise funds with cold call sale pitches and promote through social media.

Spearman will attend South Dakota State University for animal science. She said planning the show helped her decide her major.

Spearman said the show will be a

Ickler and Spearman did about 95% of the planning, Ickler said. Spearman said planning the event without any past event as a foundation has been a challenge.

“We’re starting on a blank slate on every single level we could ever start at,” Spearman said.

As of May 17, the event had 20 registrations and 72 animals signed up. Registration is open through the end of May. The show is sanctioned by the state of Minnesota and will have a veterinarian present.

The show will include ribbons and prize money. Any extra money will be distributed as scholarships.

“We’re not going to take anything back,” Spearman said. “It’s for the kids.”

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EMILY BRETH/DAIRY STAR

Jim Leroux gathers rocks May 16 with a skid loader while his wife, Cathy, drives the tractor near Long Prairie, Minnesota. The Leroux family milks 43 cows in a tiestall barn. The milking herd also has access to pasture.

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Life lessons from the farm

The saddest day I have spent on my parents’ farm was April 16 — the day the last of the milking cattle left the farm after 101 years. Knowing it would be a long day getting the cattle to the sales barn, I took the day off from work to help.

I might not have done much with the cattle within the past year, but it was comforting to hear them and even chase that one calf who never wanted to stay in the hut. As I sat in the auction ring and watched the cattle sell, I watched the only life I knew disappear.

However, I did not let this change the way I feel about the dairy community as a whole. If anything, it showed me how lucky I was to grow up immersed in farming. People who do not grow up on a farm do not truly understand all the hard work that is put in every day.

work with us. I knew this was also true about my cousin’s family who is dairy farming.

My cousin and I were the only kids in our grade who were active on a dairy farm, and it showed not just by the work ethic we had, but also the amount of effort we put into subjects we were passionate about — like farmers and their cattle.

By Emily Breth Staff Writer

The life lessons that come with farming are endless, and I have seen many of them take root in my siblings and I. I never thought much about how the farm changed the course of our lives. I knew it had, just not all the different ways.

I started to think about it when I heard a teacher at my high school tell my parents that they wished Mom and Dad would have had more kids because it was a joy to

Another way we realized the shrinking number of dairy farms in the district was by the time of events. When my brother, who is six years older than me, was in school, the start time of activities that only included our school was later than it was when I reached the same age.

My dad made it to my brother’s band concerts but never mine, because he had to nish chores so my mom could attend. It didn’t affect many other parents by that point.

Being able to raise or say you raised a family on a farm is something to take pride in. Not only are you raising kids in a way that will allow them to prosper in life later on, you are supporting and supplying the basic necessities of life.

I thoroughly enjoy talking to my neighbors who are milking cows. Seeing that there are smaller farms or family farms who are not willing to give up, even when the

markets are bad, is something that encourages me to do more. That is one reason I love to tell stories about family farms who are carrying on, though they are not doing anything special that would catch someone else’s eye. But, they are doing the work that means the world to them.

Sam Asmus 15 years old 10th grade

The Asmus Family

nesota. The Asmus family milks 260 cows.

When do you do chores? I usually don’t because I’m so busy with my extracurricular activities.

What is your favorite and least favorite chore? My favorite is fetching cows. My least favorite is feeding corn. What project do you enjoy helping your parents with on the farm? Swathing the hay.

Tell us a fun memory you have of living on the farm. Shooting pigeons.

What is your favorite animal on your farm? My favorite is my cow, Parisa. I showed her at the fair four years ago.

What do you want to be when you grow up? Game warden.

If you had a farm, describe what it would look like. It would look like a hobby farm.

What is your favorite game to play on the farm? Playing catch with a football.

What is your favorite meal that your mom or dad makes? Hamburgers with bacon.

What is your favorite thing to do off the farm with your family? Going on vacation.

Turn to KIDS CORNER | Page 19

EMILY BRETH/DAIRY STAR

The Asmus family — Isabella (front, from le ), Jackson and Emma; (back, from le ) Sam, Kayla and Adam — stand in their robo c milking room May 21 on their farm near Long Prairie, Min-

Are you involved in activities? I’m

trapshooting, band, jazz band, pep band, choir, knowledge bowl, 4-H, one-act play and speech.

When do you do chores? At night with my mom or whenever I’m around.

What is your favorite and least favorite chore? My favorite is fetching cows, and my least favorite is shoveling old soybeans out of the barn.

What project do you enjoy helping your parents with on the farm? I like mowing the lawn.

Tell us a fun memory you have of living on the farm. Whenever we climb to the top of our 55,000-bushel grain bin.

What is your favorite animal on your farm? Cookie, our ofce cat, is my favorite. She was hurt as a kitten so now she walks silly.

What do you want to be when you grow up? A nurse.

If you had a farm, describe what it would look like. It would look like ours.

What is your favorite game to play on the farm? Climbing trees.

What is your favorite meal that your mom or dad makes? Steak.

What is your favorite thing to do off the farm with your family? Going to the Boundary Waters.

Are you involved in activities? I’m involved in volleyball, basketball, track, band, choir, one-act play, knowledge bowl, speech and 4-H, and I’m a Todd County dairy junior ambassador.

When do you do chores? I do them at night with my mom.

What is your favorite and least favorite chore? My favorite is feeding calves, and my least favorite is moving calves.

What project do you enjoy helping your parents with on the farm? I liked helping my grandma in her garden.

Tell us a fun memory you have of living on the farm. When we nd newborn kittens. Sometimes, our cats would have them in our ofce cupboard.

What is your favorite animal on your farm? Our Jerseys. We mostly have Holsteins, but we have a handful of Jerseys who love attention.

What do you want to be when you grow up? At this moment, a vet.

If you had a farm, describe what it would look like. Similar to ours.

What is your favorite game to play on the farm? The game dead man on the trampoline.

What is your favorite meal that your mom or dad makes? Spaghetti hot dish.

What is your favorite thing to do off the farm with your family? Go on vacations.

When do you do chores? I do chores with my mom whenever she goes.

What is your favorite and least favorite chore? My favorite chore is feeding and petting the cows. My least favorite chore is helping with getting newborn babies.

What project do you enjoy helping your parents with on the farm? I like to help Grandpa x the tractors.

Tell us a fun memory you have of living on the farm. A fun memory I have is when Paris, our Jersey, hugged my sister, Izzy, when she was petting her.

What is your favorite animal on your farm? My favorite animal on the farm is Paris because she is friendly.

What do you want to be when you grow up? An NFL player.

If you had a farm, describe what it would look like. I would want it to look similar to our farm now. I want it to have a house, a garage and lots of places for cows.

What is your favorite game to play on the farm? I like to play 500. It’s a game where you throw a football and try to catch it for points.

What is your favorite meal your mom or dad makes? Spaghetti hot dish.

What is your favorite thing to do off the farm with your family? I like going on vacations and playing catch with dad.

the responses of Elliot Gibbs and Callan Gibbs were featured alongside the incorrect photo; the photos of the brothers were reversed. Dairy Star staff regrets this error.

Isabella Asmus 11 years old Fifth grade

Emma Asmus 13 years old Seventh grade

Jackson Asmus 9 years old Third grade

DeForest

513 members

DeForest, Wisconsin

Dane County

Tell us about your chapter. With over 1,300 students in grades 8-12, DeForest Area School District employs four agriculture teachers, Gwen Boettcher, Abbey Ryan, Alyssa Engel and Zeth Engel, to support an FFA program of 513 students. The agriculture program consists of courses ranging from eighth grade agriscience to welding and a cooperative internship/youth apprenticeship program. The students have opportunities that range from managing 83 acres of farmland, growing over 25,000 owers and vegetables, working in a 62-acre nature preserve, handling animals in an 1,800-square-foot indoor animal lab, working in over 20 area businesses, and raising sh and lettuce in an aquaponics system.

How does your chapter volunteer in the community throughout the year? We create agriculture educational theme kits for over 500 kids in the community. We raised $16,000 to package meals for Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin, an annual project. We do

Members of the DeForest FFA Chapter a end fall leadership conferences Nov. 16-17, 2023, in Green Bay, Wisconsin. DeForest FFA Chapter’s membership has increased from

students to 513 students in the last 19 years.

many trash pick-ups and petting zoo educational displays.

What fundraisers does your chapter do throughout the year? We have two major fundraisers each year. In the winter, we sell fruit, meat, nuts and cheese. In the spring, we have our annual plant sale from our greenhouse projects.

What are the biggest events of the year? The DeForest FFA Scholarship Committee collaborated with the three elementary schools to create this event. The scholarship committee selected the book, “How Did That Get in My Lunchbox?”

to read and gift to the third graders in our district. This activity taught the students where their food comes from. Our students gave 340 books to students. The DeFo Fights Hunger committee advertised to the community to raise money to pack over 50,000 meals. The student body volunteered to pack the meals alongside community members. All of the money collected and meals packed went to families and individuals in need in the surrounding areas of Dane County. The DeForest FFA Food for America committee held a

Con nued from FFA | Page 20 day on the farm event for all the fourth-grade students in the district. This event was held to inform students about pathways in agriculture, through 13 stations, and what they have to offer. Doing this event allowed youth to be more informed about agriculture as a whole.

What is unique about your chapter? We have 513 members total but only 18 of them live on a farm (10 families). Our FFA membership has increased from 70 students to 513 students in the last 19 years. DeForest FFA was a national 3-star chapter for the National Chapter Award Program at the national convention in 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. Our members excel in Career Development Events and Leadership Development Events. In 2024, we advanced a prepared public speaking and employment skills contestants to state, having multiple top-ve individual placings at state CDEs and the World Dairy Expo competitions. We raised funds and purchased and packaged over 150,000 meals in the last four

Tell us about your farm and family. I grew up on my family’s 200-cow registered Holstein dairy farm. This farm was started in 1852 by my great-great-grandpa, Thor, and has been in the family ever since. I live with my dad, who is part owner of the farm with my uncle; my mom, who is a large animal veterinarian at the University of Wisconsin-Madison; and my sister, who is a junior studying dairy science at UWMadison.

Why did you join FFA? I joined FFA for a variety of reasons, the rst being to carry on my family’s tradition. My grandpa was a part of the DeForest FFA Chapter within its rst few years of being a chapter, and my dad was the president when he was in high school. I joined the chap-

years to help those who are in need in the DeForest community and abroad. DeForest FFA members and FFA alumni raise annually over $30,000 at the FFA Alumni Family Fun Night for the guaranteed scholarship for graduates of the program. The alumni have donated over $100,000 in the last 19 years to the agriculture program and over $100,000 in scholarships in the last 20 years.

When was your chapter founded, and how has it evolved? The agriculture program was created in 1948, centering on the strong foundation of agriculture that was predominant in the district. Since then, the program has evolved to match the changing community. Today, it is mainly a suburban community maintaining a commitment to agricultural sciences and natural resources.

Sam Mell PRESIDENT

ter because I like meeting people with similar interests. Agriculture is an important part of the world, and being able to meet people who you might work with in the future can be very inuential to the success of any operation. FFA does a great job of introducing you to those people.

What is your role in the chapter? My main role is being the president. With that, I am also the head of many smaller committees, including the committee that packaged 51,264 meals to help families who are food insecure in the Dane County area. I am also the chair of the DeForest Ag & FFA Land Lab, where I am in charge of managing 84 acres of corn and soybeans.

What FFA contests do you compete in? This year, I competed in the discussion and employment skills LDEs at the district and sectional level. I will be competing at the state competition for employment skills in June. I also competed in the agronomy CDE where I placed fourth as an individual.

What do you look forward to most in the upcoming FFA year? While I will be graduating in June, I look forward to seeing the chapter grow with the addition of our seventh-grade program. Our chapter has 513 members, so this addition will allow more students to learn about

agriculture and what it has to offer. I am also looking forward to seeing our ofcer team nd their way within agriculture and put on events to strengthen our chapter.

How has FFA shaped you as a person? FFA has changed my life completely. Growing up, I knew I wanted to be involved in agriculture, but I didn’t know half the opportunities that were out there. Through FFA, I have learned about the thousands of agricultural careers within Wisconsin. I have met many people with similar interests who I will more than likely be working with in the future. These people have become some of my best friends and feel more like family most of the time. FFA is the greatest organization in the world, and that is shown by the nearly 1 million members who are a part of it. I couldn’t be more proud to be one of them.

What are your duties on the farm? I am the calf manager, which includes feeding, vaccinating and bedding the calves. I am also involved in manure management, milking cows, eldwork, basic maintenance and anything else that is needed. I have worked daily on my family farm since fourth grade and am working there through the internship program at our school that allows me to work and get credits at the same time. I have been fortunate to grow up on a family farm and credit most of my knowledge to helping manage our operation.

What are your future plans? Next year, I will attend UW-Madison to major in agronomy. I am not exactly sure what I want to do; however, I want to work with crops whether that is with science, agronomy or coming back to the farm to grow our crop operation.

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Celebrate June Dairy Month with multi-state events

May 31-June 1

Dairyfest: Hosted by the Marsheld Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Enjoy a breakfast May 31 from 5:30-9:30 a.m. at the Marsheld Fairgrounds, 513 E. 17th St., Marsheld, WI. From 5-8 p.m. May 31, there will be inatable fun, educational activities, music and more at Columbia Park. A parade begins at 11 a.m. June 1 followed by a pie social from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Upham Mansion. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., there will be inatables, a petting zoo and dairy samples at the Center City Fun Day at Wenzel Family Plaza. There is also an outdoor beer garden and music at Nutz Deep II.

June 1

South Dakota Dairy Fest: Enjoy a day of all things dairy. Face painting, cheese making, cow milking, coloring, corn hole, music and bouncy houses. Start the day by touring the South Dakota State University Davis Dairy Plant from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Then, get on a shuttle to Old Tree Farms, 46318 214th St., Volga, SD, to enjoy a free grilled cheese lunch and SDSU ice cream from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. SDSU Davis Dairy Plant is located at 1225 College Ave., Brookings, SD.

Cows & Co Creamery Festival: Cows and Co Creamery is hosting a family fun day. Admission is $5 for adults, and children under 18 are free. There will be kids games, inatables, food and drink vendors, dairy tours and loads of cheese, gelato, milk, yogurt and merchandise. Cows & Co Creamery is located at 7321 First St. NE, Carrington, ND.

Dane County Cows on the Concourse: The cows are taking over the capital from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Capitol Square, 100 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Madison, WI. Cows on the Concourse is a free, annual and family-friendly event that kicks off National Dairy Month in Dane County. During the event, kids and adults can meet and greet cows from local dairy farms.

Iowa County Dairy Breakfast: Hosted by the Putz family of Level Acres Dairy LLC, 91 W. Clyde St., Avoca, WI. Enjoy a locally sourced breakfast from 6:30-10 a.m. that includes pancakes, eggs, sausage, milk, cheese, yogurt, applesauce and ice cream. After breakfast, check out the many activities being offered, including a kids area, petting zoo, live music, farm tours and more. On-site parking is available.

Barron County Dairy Breakfast: Hosted at Broker Farms, 1747 19th Ave., Rice Lake, WI. From 6-11 a.m., the free-will donation breakfast includes Wisconsin omelets and all-you-can-eat pancakes with real maple syrup. They will also be serving butter, apple sauce, milk, coffee, cheese slices, deep-fried cheese curds and Culver’s sundaes. Enjoy breakfast, live music and self-guided farm tours, but don’t forget to enter your name for door prizes.

Crawford County Dairy Breakfast: Enjoy a packed morning from 6-10 a.m. for the annual dairy breakfast at the Crawford County Fairgrounds, 17725 Highway 131, Gays Mills, WI. The menu includes pancakes, syrup, sausage links, cheese, Organic Valley cottage cheese, Westby Creamery cheese curds, applesauce, Culver’s custard, milk and coffee. There will also be an antique tractor display, dairy and 4-H trivia, a visit with master gardeners, music by Abbey Lane and more. New this year, the incoming dairy royalty will be crowned at the breakfast. The cost to attend is $3 and free for children 5 and under.

Monroe County Dairy Breakfast: Hosted at the Witt family’s farm, 27432 Midway Ave., Wilton, WI. From 7-11 a.m., the menu consists of ham and cheese omelets, sausage links, buttered toast, cheese, Culver’s strawberry sundaes, donut holes, cookies, coffee and milk. There will also be activities and displays, farm tours and wagon rides. The cost is $5 for adults, $3 for kids 6-10 and free for children 5 and under.

Grilled Cheese Day: Come show your support for local dairy farmers, get to know them and fellow community members, and even get a tasty treat from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Egan Family Dairy Inc., 7075

Ninth St. Rd, Omro, WI. This year’s menu includes grilled cheese or grilled ham and cheese sandwiches, milk, cheese curds, potato chips and custard. The cost is $5. Activities will include: butter making, coloring, feeding a calf, dairy trivia, The Moo-Mania Comedy Show and more.

June 2

Dodge County Dairy Brunch: Hosted at Hafemeister Family Farm, N4353 County Rd. R, Hustisford, WI. From 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., this year’s brunch includes scrambled eggs with ham and cheese, pancakes,

Turn to JUNE EVENTS | Page 24

deep-fried cheese curds, assorted cheeses, milk, juice and ice cream. Educational stations, music and vendors are available. Before leaving, make sure to tour the farm which consists of 135 Holsteins with two Lely robotic milking units and 120 heifers.

Abbotsford FFA Alumni Dairy Breakfast: Hosted by Dukestead Acres, W1216 Willow Rd. Abbotsford, WI. The annual breakfast is from 7 a.m. to noon and includes pancakes, maple syrup, sausages, a variety of cheese, butter, applesauce, cookies, juice, coffee, white or chocolate milk and ice cream. There will be a tram ride through the robot barn, machinery display and bussing to and from the Abbotsford School District’s south parking lot. The cost is $5 with kids 5 and under free.

Brown County Dairy Breakfast: Hosted by Wiese Brothers Farm, 7043 Bunker Hill Rd. Greenleaf, WI. The morning will start with a church service at 7 a.m. and will be preceded by a meal of scrambled eggs with ham and cheese, pancakes with real maple syrup, deep-fried cheese curds, yogurt, cheese samples, sausage and more. Check out the ride-along farm tour, petting zoo and kids/family activity tent with countless educational games and activities. Breakfast runs from 8 a.m. to noon and costs $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 5-10 and is free for 4 and under.

Granton FFA Alumni Dairy Breakfast on the Farm: Hosted by Robin Ridge Farms, N3359 Robin Ave., Granton, WI. The breakfast will be served from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The menu includes pancakes (provided by Uncle Pancake), eggs, cheese curds, sausage, ice cream, applesauce, maple syrup, butter, milk, juice and coffee. After eating, attendees can visit a petting zoo. Parking is available at the Granton High School, 217 N. Main St. Granton, WI. There will be bussing to the farm. Cost is $8 for adults, $4 for students kindergarten through fth grade and free for preschoolers.

June 7

Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism: The agri-business committee is hosting Dairy Day from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Library Square, 50 Hassan St. SE, Hutchinson, MN. It is free to attend, but meals will be $5. Meet Princess Kay of the Milky Way, the McLeod County dairy princesses, water carnival royal family, FFA members and 4-H members. Try your best at the cow milking contest at noon, featuring celebrity milkers. Don’t get a brain freeze during the ice cream eating contest starting at 12:30 p.m. for children 5-12. Registration is from 11 a.m. to noon. There will be live music and other youth activities.

June 8

Wright Carver County Breakfast on the Farm: Join the Hoese family for pancakes, sausage, coffee and milk from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 5520 Polk Ave., Mayer, MN. Tours of the farm will be available. Along the tour, there are ve education stations. Visit the FFA petting zoo to get close with the whole barnyard. Have a look at new and antique machinery used on the farm. See technology that helps

farmers every day. Try free dairy product samples from local producers. Parking is available at the Watertown High School with shuttles from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. The shuttle takes approximately 10 minutes. Watertown High School is located at 1001 MN-25, Watertown, MN. There is handicap and volunteer parking available at the farm.

Steele County Breakfast on the Farm: Kashome Holsteins is hosting this year’s event from 8 a.m. to noon. They will serve wafes, sausage, cheese, milk and coffee. The breakfast is $5 per person, and 5-year-olds and under eat free. Aside from breakfast, there will be farm tours, horse and wagon rides, a petting zoo, vintage tractors, kiddy train, bouncy house, crafts and more. Parking is available at the Steele County Fairgrounds, 1525 S. Cedar Ave., Owatonna, MN, and the Medford Public School, 750 Second Ave. SE, Medford, MN. There will be free bus transportation starting at 8 a.m. and ending at 11:30 a.m. Handicap parking is located at the farm.

Wisconsin Dells FFA Alumni Farm to Fork Breakfast Fundraiser: Enjoy a morning of locally sourced food and fun that highlights Wisconsin dairy and agriculture at the Wisconsin Dells High School, 1501 Brew Farm Rd., Wisconsin Dells, WI. Running from 8 a.m. to noon, the breakfast includes grilled cheese, scrambled eggs, sausage, milk and coffee. Cost is $10 with kids 5 and under eating free. Check out activities around the agriculture department including wool spinning, gardening, barn tours and more.

Rock County Dairy Breakfast: Hosted by Morton Dairy, 15739 W. State Rd. 59, Evansville, WI. From 6:30-11 a.m., attendees can expect a morning full of activities including kids games, a petting zoo, a craft area and more. Make sure to load up on a breakfast menu that includes pancakes, sausage, milk and ice cream.

EQUIPMENT AUCTION

Friday, June 14, 2024

Starting at 9:00 am • SELLING IN 3 RINGS!

NOW ACCEPTING YOUR CONSIGNMENTS!

Check your farm and sheds for any extra machinery you mayhave! We have a nice line up of late model equipment coming to the auction.

Don’t forget to check out the cows before heading out. Adults are $10 with kids 10 and under eating for $5.

Washington County Breakfast on the Farm: Hosted by Krueger Dairy KDFC LLC, 6985 Farm Lane, Allenton, WI. From 7-11 a.m., get ready for all-youcan-eat pancakes plus a serving of scrambled eggs, applesauce, cheese, sausage, and white and chocolate milk. Chocolate and strawberry sundaes will also be available for $1 each. Besides food, there will also be wagon rides to the farm, barn tours, a petting zoo, live music and antique tractors. Adults are $10 with children 3 and under free.

DEUTZ FAHR AGROTRON M620 – MFWD, 175HP, 2300 Hrs, Loader, Front+Rear PTO/3PT; 2014 NH T8.300 – MFWD, 280 HP, Mixer Tractor, 30 Hrs on OH; 2011 CASE IH MX210 – MFWD, 210 HP, Emissions Deleted; 2015 CASE IH FARMALL 55A – MFWD, 54 HP, 5,968 Hours; JD 4960 – MFWD, 200HP, Cab; CHALLENGER MT645B – MFWD, 235 HP; JD 4630 – MFWD, 150 HP; JD 5420 – MFWD, 81HP, JD 541 Loader; SAME CORSARO 70 – 70 HP, MFWD, 3PT, 6675 Hrs; 1983 JD 2550 – 65 HP, 6715 Hrs; FORD 4000 – 57 HP, Loader, Power Steering; FORD 5000 – 70 HP, Row Crop; JI CASE 1370 – 2WD, 140 HP; 1961 JD 4010 – 80HP, Diesel, 2WD; 1964 JD 3020 – 71HP, Diesel, 2WD, 5700 Hrs, Restored – Very Nice!; JD 2010 – 40 HP, 2WD, Loader, New Clutch; FARMALL M – 25 HP, Wide Front; HAY & FORAGE EQUIPMENT JD 3950 Forage Chopper PT, w/ 6.5’ Hay Head, Control Box; 2008 JD 3955 PT Forage Harvester, Used 5 Years, 120 Acres/YR; 2006 JD 3975 Forage Harvester, KP, w/ Corn Head, Metal Detector; JD 38 Forage Harvester Needs Repairs, W/ 2-R Corn Head; CHALLENGER RB56 Round Baler, Twine, Net wrap; 1995 NEW IDEA 4845 Round Baler, Deluxe Controller, 12,901 Bales; NH 630 Round Baler, Needs Roller for Box; HESSTON 4450 In-Line Small Square, Thrower, Twine; NH 315 HAYLINER Small Square Baler w/ Thrower; VERMEER SW-3000 Bale Wrapper; NEW IDEA 5209 Discbine, Rubber Rollers; NH 1431 Discbine, Rubber Rollers; NH 1441 Discbine Swivel Hitch, Rubber Rollers; VICON 60” Wing Mower; GEHL 2415 Discbine, 15’ Width; 2022 ESCH 6032 Tedder, 32’ Working Width; 2013 CASE IH WRX301 16 Wheel V Rake; H&S Hay Machine II Rake; H&S Hi-Capacity 12 Wheel V Rake; GEHL WM1160 Front Mount Merger; MILLER PRO 4100 Forage Wagon Tandem Axle, Right-Hand Unload; 2 – H&S 7+4HD 16’ Twin Auger front unload, Tandem Axle; MEYER 3516 16’ Wagon, 1306 Running Gear; MEYER 4216 TSS Wagon, One Owner, Kept in Shed; 2 – H&S 7+4 16’ Forage Wagon; 2 – H&S 9×16’ Bale Wagon; MEYER FLAT WAGON 25’, Tandem Axle; 18’ Flat Wagon Tandem Axle; HESSTON AGO AB7515 1000 RPM Blower; NH F62B Blower w/ extra bend and slip pipe; 2 – H&S 860 Blowers; GRAIN HARVESTING EQUIPMENT

2 – PARKER 4000 Gravity Wagon 425 BU, Single Axle; PARKER 500 Grain Cart, One Owner; DMI 350 BU Gravity Box, Rear Brakes; TILLAGE EQUIPMENT

CASE IH 4600 Cultivator, 24’ Width; GLENCOE SS7400 9 Shank Soil Saver; CASE IH 14 Subsoiler, 5 Shank, 9’ Width; DMI 3200 9-Shank Fert. Applicator; JD 10’Disk; 3 Bottom Plow; 24 LINDSEY Cart Spike Tooth Drag; FEEDING EQUIPMENT 2014 KUHN KNIGHT CR250 TMR Mixer, Digi-Star EZ 2500V Scale; NDE 1502 TMR Mixer, Single Screw, Scale, Extensions; ARTSWAY PM30 Mixer/ Grinder; NH 390 Bale Grinder; MEYER Bunk Wagon; NOTCH 20’ Bunk Wagon Feeder Renovated, Enclosed sides; ADDITIONAL CONSIGNMENTS

2016 FEATHERLITE 8×45’ Stock Trailer, Tri-Axle, 4 Cut Gates; 2022 S&S DURALINE 6×12 Stock Trailer, BH, MFG Warranty Included; 48 FT STORAGE CONTAINER w/ 3 garage doors; 2012 HONDA ODYSSEY Mini Van, Black, 199,000 Mi; 2014 CHRYSLER TOWN&COUNTRY Mini Van, 218,000 Mi; 2008 GMC ARCADIA SLT 2WD 205,000 Miles, Full package trim; 2005 Polaris Ranger Doors, No Windshield, Runs and Drives; 1992 JAYCO EAGLE CAMPER 5TH-Wheel; MAJACO M105 Towable Log Hauler, BH; 1978 IH PAYSTAR 5000 (PARTS TRUCK ONLY) Cummins 855, NTC-350, 13-Sp Eaton Trans; 1989 CHAPERALLE 16’ Stock Trailer, BH, Single Gate; 1979 FLATBED TRAILER GN, 20’; 2001 FALK 2060F23A Inline Gear Reducer, 5HP; TOMMY GATE Pickup Lift Gate 5.5’ Wide; 10 – 18” x 8’ Culverts (Double Walled); 30 – 15” x 8’ Culverts (Double Walled); Truck Bed Fuel Tank w/ 12V Pump; 300’ of Manger Liner; 200’ of Stainless Pipes; 3PT Back Blade; Pallet of Tire Chains; 4 Chains for NH L218 Skid Loader; Walk Behind Lime Spreader; Water Barrel for 4 Wheeler; 300 Gal Fuel Barrel w/ Electric Pump; SKIDLOADERS & ATTACHMENTS 2020 JD 325G CTL, 2-SP, Heat/Air, 76” Bucket, 1300 Hrs; 2015 KUBOTA SVL 75-2 CTL, Heat/Air, 2-SP, New Tracks; 2015 CATERPILLAR 249D CTL, New Tracks, 1462 Hrs; CASE CE 1825 Skidloader, Gas, 3454 Hrs, Hand Controls; STOUT HD 84” Grapple; POWERHORSE Wood Splitter; ROTO-KING RK350 Bale processor; GROUSER 1300 70” 6-Way blade; SWEEPSTER 10066-9125 70” Grapple; TMG 72”Forestry Mulcher – Like New; LAND HONOR 72” Harley Rake – Like New; NH 78” Bucket – Like New; LOEGERING VTS Skidloader Tracks, 8 Bolt, Good Shape; 72” Rock Bucket; Skidloader Receiver Hitch; BEAST Tree Puller, Like New; Tire Scraper; CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT 2020 BOBCAT MT85 Stand On CTL, Rubber Tracks, Diesel, 300 Hrs; 2015 JD 35G Mini Ex, CHA, Hyd. Thumb, 2-SP, 1900 Hrs; 2015 DOOSAN P185 Portable Air Compressor, Deutz Diesel, 185CFM, 2400 Hrs; 2011 MEC 40S Boom Manlift, Diesel, 8×22’ Basket, 40’ Height, Fresh Service, Ready to work; JD 380D Forklift Diesel Engine, 4000# lift, side shift, 48’ fork, 2845 hrs; ALLIS CHALMERS 540G Wheel Loader, Diesel, Hydro Trans; SKYJACK 4626 Scissor Lift, 26’ Height, 250 Hrs; New Hyd. Concrete Breaker Fits Mini-Excavator; 40” Flail Mower Fits Mid Size-Excavator, New; 102” Bucket Pin On, HD; MANURE HANDLING CALUMET 3200 Manure Tank, Tandem Axle, Rebuilt Impeller; BETTER-BILT 4200 GAL Manure Tanker; HUSKY 5000 Manure Tanker; BADGER BN180 20’, Rebuilt Pump; BADGE BN5250S Manure tank; PATZ Manure Spreader – Single Axle, Hyd. End gate; HARCO 400 BU Spreader; H&S 312 V Twin Auger Liquid Spreader; KNIGHT 8032 Slinger Spreader, 500 BU; JAMESWAY INJECTOR BAR DRILLS AND PLANTERS GREAT PLAINS 2000-3000 NT Drill, 20; CASE IH 5400 Grain Drill; JD Grain Drill 10’; AROUND THE FARM 2001 SPRAY-AIR 3200 Pull-type, Duals; HARDI NP 1100 Pull-type; BUSH HOG 3308 8’, 3PT; Free Standing Gates; Free Standing Gates W/ Feeders; 10’, 12’, 14’, 16’ Gates; 24 Pannel Round Pen – 10’ Pannels; KNOWLES 24’ Elevator; LOYAL 22’ Elevator w/Transport; 24’ Feed Polly Conveyor; 94 –Fence Posts; KNOWLES 24’ Elevator w/Transport; KING KUTTER 6’ 3PT Mower; NH 450 Sickle Mower; LAND PRIDE Ditch Mower; HOOVER BALE FORKS; HINKER Tractor Cab w/ Mounting Brackets; 4 – J&D Cow Brushes, Used 1 Year (1-Brand New); 36’ Feed Conveyor; Pallet of Closing Wheels for JD 1590-1560; Pallet of JD Cultivator Shovels; Pallet of CASE IH Cultivator Shovels; 5 – Pieces of Jamesway Silo Unloader Parts; Tote Fencing Supplies;

Much more information & pictures at EquipmentFacts.com

CONSIGNMENTS: See www.premierlivestockandauctions.com for early consignments!

Pepin County Dairy Breakfast: Hosted by Koller Farms, E7794 State Rd. 85, Mondovi, WI. From 6:3011 a.m., the menu includes pancakes, Pepin County maple syrup, sausage, cheese, pudding, ice cream, juice and milk. There will also be kids games and activities. Free-will donations will be accepted for the breakfast.

Dairy Palooza: Hosted by Feltz Family Farms & Dairy Store, 5796 Porter Drive, Stevens Point, WI. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., get ready for farm tours, hay rides, kids games and activities. Don’t forget to check out the pedal tractor races, petting zoo, balloon animals, face painting and more. There will also be free milk, cheese curds and cheese, and ice cream. Admission is free, and there will also be additional food for purchase.

Dane County Breakfast on the Farm: Hosted by Blue Star Dairy Farms, 7502 Patton Rd., DeForest, WI. From 7-11:30 a.m., the breakfast will include scrambled eggs, pancakes, sausage, yogurt, cheese, ice cream, milk and coffee. There will be samples of other Wisconsin dairy products. After eating, attendees are encouraged to explore the farm, enjoy live entertainment and participate in educational activities to celebrate dairy month. The event is free for ages under 3, $5 for ages 5-11 and $10 for ages 12 and up.

Livingston County Farm Bureau Young Leaders: Hosted by Kilgus Farmstead, 21471 E. 670 North Rd., Fairbury, IL. From 7-10 a.m., the meal includes biscuits and gravy, eggs, milk, juice and coffee. Cost is $1 per plate. The event also includes free farm tours, games and activities for kids.

This two-row forage head is a real treasure. Minimal investment with huge returns. High performance. Low maintenance. Stake your claim!

Contact

Your

Abts Equipment LLC

Kesler Farms LLC

“Happy calves and less headaches. Thanks Calf Star!”

“Out with the old and in with the new, updated the milk taxi this week. The old one was used when we bought it and was giving us enough grief with electrical issues plunge on a new one.”

Local Calf Star Dealer For More Information

cal D ormatio

Wisconsin:

Midwest Livestock Systems

Minnesota:

Gorter’s Clay & Dairy

New Franken (920) 866-2485

Gillett (920) 866-2485

Argall Dairy Systems, Inc.

Belleville (608) 424-6110

Platteville (608) 348-3385

Fuller’s Milker Center LLC

Lancaster (608) 723-4634

Richland Center (608) 723-4634

Gehring Sales & Service, Inc.

Rubicon (262) 673-4920

Joe’s Refrigeration, Inc.

Withee (715) 229-2321

Leedstone, Inc.

Menomonie (866) 467-4717

Menomonie (715) 235-5144

Redeker Dairy Equipment

Brandon (920) 960-9260

The Scharine Group Inc.

Whitewater (608) 883-2880

Tri-County Dairy Supply Inc.

Janesville (608) 757-2697

Iowa:

Langs Dairy Equipment

Decorah (563) 382-8722

Precision Dairy Equipment

Elkader (563) 245-2560

Equipment, Inc.

Pipestone (507) 825-3271

Leedstone, Inc.

Melrose (888) 267-2697

Glencoe (877) 864-5575

Plainview (800) 548-5240

Midwest Livestock Systems

Zumbrota (507) 732-4673

South Dakota:

Midwest Livestock Systems

Renner (605) 274-3656

(30) HOLSTEIN HEIFERS, 400-900 lbs. Call before 8 a.m. 608-687-3022. 5-3-F

REGISTERED, HOMEBRED HOLSTEIN BULLS, located 15 mi. north of Rochester, MN. Call Dave Alberts at 507269-3084 or 507-356-8625. 14-TFN-B

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS, red or black, dams over 40,000 milk, 4.0 test, Analyst Renegrade, King, Doc. Call Greg 608-326-2668. 20-TFN-F

(6) FLEKVIEH-JERSEY

CROSS HEIFERS, bred for fall freshening, $2,500. Glen Mast, 2503 480th St., Iowa City, IA 52240. 7-3-F

HERITAGE MILKING

SHORTHORN HFRS., roan, (1) coming to, (1) 9 mos., gentle stock. Call 701490-2432. 6-2-F

REGISTERED CALVING EASE HOLSTEIN & ANGUS BULLS, various sizes, delivery avail. Call or text Brian 715-613-9206. 2-TFN-F

SERVICEABLE AGE

BLACK & WHITE & RED & WHITE BULLS, sires Red Eye and Einstein, some polled, deep pedigrees. Call 320-583-6564. 21-TFN-F

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS, polled, genomic tested, deep pedigreed high-producing cow families. Call 507-8200452. 22-TFN-F

100% ORGANIC RED STEERS, no shots, approx. 800 lbs., $1,500 ea., can deliver. Call 701-490-2432. 11-TFN-F

HOLSTEIN BULLS, springing hfrs., Freeport, MN area. Call 612-2707453. 23-TFN-F

HOLSTEIN BULLS, red or black, closed herd, Johnes & Leukosis test negative, guaranteed breeders, delivery available. Call 507-9205859. 7-TFN-B

REGISTERED DAIRY COWS & HFRS., from June-Oct.; dairy calves 2-6 mos. Norwood, MN. Call 612-202-7944. 6-7-F

SERVICEABLE AGE

BREEDING BULLS, 40 yrs. AI breeding, Sauk Centre, MN. Call 320-761-2526 or 320-293-5607. 6-TFN-F

REG. HOLSTEIN BULLS, from three or more generations of EX 30,000 lbs. dams, Brookings, SD. Call 605-690-6393. TFN-F

GUERNSEY SPRING-

ERS, reg. Brown Swiss cows & breeding age registered bulls, Brown Swiss bulls, Guernsey w/high type & production. Call 563590-5369. 11-TFN-F

10-14 HEAD SPRINGING & FRESH HFRS, fresh 3045 days, large, 1 trailer load. Call 320-630-9924, central, MN. 7-1-F

DAIRY GOAT DOES, out of Hostetler breeding; also breeding bucks available. Call 319-350-5819. 24-TFN-F

REG. HOLSTEIN BULLS, exc. type and production. Call Scott Rickeman 320-552-0284. 16-TFN-F

BROWN SWISS BULLS, home raised, registered, genomic tested, A2A2 tested, delivery available. Call 563419-2137 or visit www.hilltopacresfarmcalmaria. com 24-TFN-F

HOLSTEIN BULLS, red or black, serviceable age, north of Rochester, MN, delivery avail. Call 507-7325930. 7-1-F

SERVICEABLE AGE

HOLSTEIN BULLS, from great type and production families. Raised on outside lots, good vigor, Glencoe, MN. Call 320-864-6555. 2-TFN-F

LARGE SELECTION REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS from multigen EX, VG cows, 28,500 RHA. Call Olmar Farms 507-220-0730. 20-TFN-B

Livestock - WANTED

YOUNG GUY LOOKING FOR OLDER

WANTING TO RETIRE and willing to help me get started and buy herd, or let me take over your herd and farm. I have 20-25 head of animals already. Call 608558-3310. 7-7-F

ALL CLASSES OF SPRINGER DAIRY COWS. No jockeys. Call 320-760-6050. 20-TFN-F

WE HAVE BUYERS for tiestall and freestall dairy herds of all qualities and quantities. Also herds for sale at all times. Call 715721-0079. 2-TFN-B

WANTING TO BUY SLOW & LAME CATTLE, lump jaws and bad eyes and all blemished cattle, $200-$600; also, good cull cows and bulls, $600$1,200. Call 612-860-8774 or 651-480-1900. 4-TFN-B

BUTCHER COWS, bulls & fats; also thin, lame, lazy & lump jaw. Call 320-8947175. 11-TFN-B

COMPLETE HERDS OF DAIRY CATTLE; also buying all classes of livestock, including cull cows, steers, hfrs. and calves. Call 715-216-1897. 7-TFN-B

P-One TM

Stabilize the Rumen and Maximize Energy

P-One, the microbiology, is fed daily and contains eight of our meticulously researched and developed Priority Smartbacteria strains. These strains stimulate lactic acid utilization in the rumen and maintain a healthy population of beneficial bacteria in the lower intestinal tract.

A proprietary combination of Seaweed derived ocean calcium, magnesium, and numerous other minerals act as a Smart bacteria catalyzer, thus creating the near perfect natural environment to initiate bacterial growth in support of Microbiology

Hay, Straw, Feed & Bedding -

HIGH QUALITY

DAIRY ALFALFA HAY, lots from 150 RFV up to 220 RFV, 3’x4’ large square bales; dry hay as well as individually wrapped baleage. Call 218-791-4953. 6-2-B

HAY FOR SALE, delivery available. Write Ose Hay Farm, P.O. Box 1, Theif River Falls, MN 56701-001. 6-TFN-B

PREMIUM QUALITY

3X4X8 WHEAT STRAW, delivered by the truckload, stored inside, volume discounts/contracts available, supply available yearround. We also carry hay/ alfalfa and other varieties of straw. Email redriverforagesales@gmail.com or call/text 1-204-209-1066. 6-2-B

STRAW,NETWRAPPED ROUND BALES & BIG SQUARES, clean, dry, stored inside, delivery available. Call 320-8088336. 15-TFN-F

ALFALFA BALEAGE, 1st-4th crop, 175 RFQ. Call 715-896-1418. 3-TFN-F

OPEN POLLINATED

SEED CORN, out produces hybrids for silage, $67/bu. plus shipping, leafy, sweet stalks, highly nutritious grain. Call 217857-3377 or cell 217-3434962. borriesopenpollinatedseedcorn.com 6-4-VM

Help Wanted

1900 COW DAIRY looking for bilingual parlor manager. Call 507-9515597. 8-TFN-F

ELMDALE CREAMERY SEEKING BOOKKEEPER, 30-40 hours/ week. Send resume to koopmg@upstel.net. 6-2B

AG SALES, light daily travel, knowledge of farm equipment, manure handling and implements, base salary plus commission, full benets, company vehicle. Contact us at 920773-2143 or send resume to rhuna.yang@rbrauninc. com 7-1-B

FEED GRADE WHEAT STRAW, 4x5 net wrapped bales, $35/bale, Osage, MN. Call 218-841-4248. 14-TFN-F-2nd

ERNMOREORGANICS.COM, certied organic alfalfa, wrapped in 8 layers of lm, 3x4x6 bales, RFQ 140-280, Springeld, SD. Call ERNmore Organics 605-286-3873 or 605-999-2010 or 605-2511143.Ernmoreorganics. com. 16-TFN-B

LARGE SQUARE BALES OF STRAW, 3x4x8. Call 320-304-2311. 6-TFN-F

ORGANIC STRAW, 2024 barley straw. Call 320-424-9869. 7-7-F

Services

CUSTOM CHOPPING, We are looking to add a few customers to our custom chopping business. We offer a newer JD 9800 chopper, 5 trucks, merger & blade tractor. We do travel. Call Ben with any questions 715-495-0481. 3-TFN-B

CUSTOM FIELD WORK, looking to add customers for tillage, planting, combining and chopping, cover central WI area. Contact Steve 715-321-4828. 7-2-B

OCIA-CERTIFIED

YELLOW CORN; certied organic alfalfa grass hay in large squares or rounds; ‘69 JD 55 combine, always inside. Call 641-751-8382. 6-TFN-B

ALFALFA HAY & GRASS HAY, med. square or round bales, delivery available, Thief River Falls, MN. Call or text LeRoy Ose 218-689-6675. 10-TFN-B

HIGH-QUALITY FORAGES: corn silage (conventional and BMR), alfalfa haylage, fescue grass silage, Triticale silage and oatlage. Forages can be delivered and made into TMR. Call 920-371-7737. 22-20-B

CUSTOM HEIFER RAISER has openings to raise your heifers. We offer freestall facilities, all TMR fed, $2.50/day from weaned to pre-fresh. Call Ben for more details 715495-0481. 3-TFN-B

SILO REMOVAL, take down & clean up, specializing in but not limited to silos in congested areas, mobile concrete crushing, fully insured. Call 507236-9446. 22-10-P

NATHAN’S CUSTOM BALING, central MN. Call 320-424-9869. 7-3-VM-2nd

LOOKING FOR HELP MILKING COWS, south of Freeport, MN, experience preferred. Call 320493-5310. 12-TFN-F

AGRICULTURE MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE WANTED FOR SOUTHERN WISCONSIN. Full-time position representing farmers in the process of goverance. Wisconsin Property Taxpayers is Wisconsin’s #1 taxpayer advocate for fair taxation and scal responsibility since 1985. Contact Mike Marsh at 715-797-5622 or wisproptax@wptonline. org. 7-2-VM

50-COW DAIRY LOOKING FOR KNOWLEDGEABLE PERSON for farm work; must know equipment and cows. Call 715-662-5053. 23-TFN-F

w/3R corn head, large & small 1000 RPM PTO, Agri-speed hitch available. Call 320-249-8556

Miscellaneous - WANTED

PULL-TYPE HAY CONDITIONER, Norwood, MN. Call 612-202-7944. 3-3-F-2nd

ASHLAND DUMP TRAILER or similar for tractor. Call 715-363-2327. 7-1-F

JD 7000 6 OR 8 ROW PLANTER & 6620 or 7720 combine. Call 320-7606050. 22-TFN-F

30-GALLON MILK PASTEURIZER for parts. Call 320-837-5360. 5-3-F

SPRING TEETH for IHC C cultivator; wheel hub for IHC 56 corn planter, right side. Call 715-822-2678. 14-TFN-F

5 OR 7 STALL WOOD CALF HUTCH in good condition. Also, cast iron eet farm drinking cups. Call 320894-0351. 5-3-F

Miscellaneous - FOR SALE

SUPER B 5500V GRAIN

DRYER, CUDRI moisture controller w/3 phase power, $6,000/obo. Call 507-4565202. 6-3-F

AGRIVAL 530 FEED

CART w/both sides discharge, $2,500; Meyer 4516 chopper box, $9,000. Call 715-897-8940. 6-2-F

NH BR770 ROUND BALER, crop cutter; Case 2188 combine, RWA. Call 218841-8723. 24-TFN-F

HAY RACK, platforms on side, 9x18’, $2,500; Kewanee elevator, 56’, PTO lift. Call 320-247-2657.

7-TFN-F

‘04 TURBO CHARGED VW BEETLE CONVERTIBLE; ‘09 Toyota Prius Hybrid. Call 320-2504600. 20-TFN-F

IH 966; IH 770 6x16 plow; Krause 14-1/2’ tandem disc; H&S 14’ silage box w/10 ton otation tires. Call 218-385-3471. 3-TFN-F

FORD 18000 SILAGE TRUCK, Meyer 8120 silage box, heat and AC, eld ready. Call 920-980-8562. 7-1-F

AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD BLUE HEELER CROSS PUPPIES, 4 female, 1 male, parents cattle dogs. Call 507-421-5270. 20-TFN-F

‘22 KUBOTA SSV65, 475 hrs., new tires, war. expires Dec. ‘24, $44,700 w/choice of bucket; Culburn quarter pail, $40. Call 563-5423276. 5-TFN-F

NH 313 DISCBINE, exc. cond., $22,000; also JD 2210 eld cult., 25’, good cond., $17,500. Call 608487-4429. 5-3-VM

1500 GAL. MUELLER BULK TANK, complete w/compressors & bulk tank washer; also (2) Tuthill 3003-22R2-8744 vacuum pumps, Bismarck, ND. Call 701-391-8200. 23-TFN-F

CLOVERDALE 285 PORTABLE MIXER, good cond., $15,000. Call 641-364-2601. 18-TFN-F

JD B FOR PARTS OR SALVAGE. Call 715-2793089. 6-2-F

JD 317G, 376 hrs., C/H/A, ISO/H, 2 spd., joystick, heated seat, one owner. Call 320-980-8332. 6-4-F

7.5 HP SUTORBILT VACUUM PUMP; Flow Star Maxx claws; Universal jar pump; Zero tank agitator; Houle trash pump. Call 920-838-3229. 7-1-F

KUHN KNIGHT VSL1100 MIXER, view at douglassales.com or call BCS Farms 563-380-4218. 6-2-F

LID FOR KNIGHT 8132 SLINGER SPREADER. Call 507-459-5201. 19-TFN-F

OLD HEATING FUEL AND DIESEL, can pump from basement. Call 320424-2005. 5-TFN-F

WEIGHTS AND WEIGHT BAR FOR JD 5830 CHOPPER. Call 608723-2049. 23-TFN-F

1,600 GALLON BULK MILK TANK. Call Norman Borntrager with Tri County Refrigeration 319330-2084. 7-1-B

(2) CATTLE BUNK FEEDERS, 1 on 4W trailer; also Krause soil nisher. Call 320-557-5514, no texts or messages. 2-TFN-F

9’ AND 10’ AG BAGGERS. Call 320-980-4599. 6-2-B

JD 920 BEAN HEAD; International 60 6RN stalk chopper. Call 320-5100950. 13-TFN-F

JD 317 SKIDLOADER, quick attach, 7,000 hrs., clean machine, newer tires. Call 320-630-5694. 7-1-F

JD 115 STALK CHOPPER, very nice, $8,500; 8 row stalk stompers off CIH corn head; milker pump & jar; 200’ of 24” poly manger liner; Patz & Badger barn cleaner, complete w/chute & SS Patz manure pump cover & parts; CIH 600 blower, like new, $2,500. Call 320-266-6878. 7-6-F

‘08 35-TON SEMI TRAILER, beaver tail & ramps, 51’ total length. Call 320-760-6942. 12-TFN-F

INTERNATIONAL 315 CULTIPACKER for parts or buy parts from. Call or text 507-251-6657. 7-1-F

HOWARD 8’ ROTOTILLER. Call 320-2902602. 7-3-F

NH D1000 LARGE SQ. BALER. Call 320-2902602. 6-3-F

FARM BULK MILK COOLERS, all sizes. Call 319-330-2286. 10-24-P

40’ SHEAHAN MANURE AUGER, like new, exc. shape, $8,000. Call 712330-7536. 24-TFN-F

JD 5830 CHOPPER, working order, cracker plate installed, sharp!, packaged deal w/4RN snapper head, $28,000. Call 507-2517486. 7-2-F

‘17 VALMETAL D59 FORAGE BLOWER, 540 RPM used very little, like new, $10,000. Call 715773-2888. 7-2-B

NEW IDEA 5209 HAYBINE, bought new, only 1200 acres, new knives. Call 715-823-4501. 6-TFNF

MUSTANG 960 SKID LOADER, nice cond., $10,500/obo; ‘17 Kuhn 153 Veri-Master 4-bottom rollover plow, $25,000. Call 608-479-2039. 20-TFN-F

CIH 510 LOADER w/ bucket & bale spear, joystick control, new paint, nice & tight, $4,500/obo. Call Lamar 641-364-2074.

5-4-F

CLASSIC 300E MILKING CLAWS. Call 320262-6874. 7-1-F

NEW & USED EQUIPMENT ON HAND

Miscellaneous - FOR SALE

(7) AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES, merle/tri, tails/dew claws removed, will have shots & wormer, born March 26th, ready May 26. Call 507-259-5173. 6-TFN-F

5,000 GAL. BULK TANK, BouMatic, new in 2017, 2 compressors, control box, soap dispenser, (2) Therma-stores. Call Corey 608-751-2882. 5-5F

JD 2700 PLOW, semi mounted. Call 320-5101055. 13-TFN-F

PSI POWER WASHERS, Power Washers Hot/ Cold, Cabinet Parts Washers, Chemicals, Presoaks, Degreasers, Large Parts Inventory Shipped Same Day, On Site Service. Industrial, Commercial, Farm, Sales, Repair and Rental. “The Guys That Work Great Under Pressure” 1-800-555-1677. Serving you from 3 locations: West Central MN Region – Pennock, MN Location, SW MN Region – Wilmont, MN Location, NW IA Region – Harrisburg, SD Location & Wilmont, MN Location, SE SD Region – Harrisburg, SD Location. 23-TFN-B

NH 29P HAY HEAD, like new, only used on 300 acres. Call 218-280-2244. 7-1-F

150 AGRI PLASTIC CALF PENS; 35 Cozy Calf pens. Call 605-8814576. 5-3-F

(4) DEMCO 365 & 450 GRAVITY BOXES, (2) w/tarps, like new; tricycle feeder; big round bale wagon. Call 320-5576558. 18-TFN

BORDER COLLIE PUPPIES, great farm dogs, family friendly, born Nov. 1st, Beaver Creek, MN. Call Mark 507-3508003. 21-TFN-F

WEAVERLINE FEED CARTS, new, rebuilt used, parts, service. Call Hobert Sales Inc., Cokato, MN 320-286-6284. 19-TFN-B

(4) 3-PHASE 5 HP BULK MILK TANK COMPRESSORS, reasonable. Call 480-313-8460. 9-TFN-F

55’ NEW PINTLE SINGLE CHAIN w/paddles for 11” conveyor, $10.80/ ft. Call 715-456-8277. 22-TFN-F

ALFA-DELAVAL LATE

MODEL BULK TANK, 1,250 gal., complete as new, MN. Call 480-3138460. 5-TFN-F

HEAVY DUTY 48” PALLET FORK, JD Euro mount. Call 608-994-2401. 16-TFN-B

(18) JD 55” FANS; (2) 36” fans w/thermostat. Call 507-829-1954. 7-1-F

NDE 704 TMR MIXER, reconditioned, like new; also Meyers 2700, dual apron, beater, priced to sell. Call 507-923-5838. 6-2-F

(2) GEHL 1540 BLOWERS; (4) Meyers chopper boxes. For pictures and details call 715-498-7730. 7-1-F

DMI TIGERMATE 28’ FIELD CULT., $10,900. Call 320-290-2602. 4-4-F

IH 60 3-bottom pull-type plow w/cylinder, good cond. Call 715-314-0977. 5-TFN-F

250’ OF BERG 16” CW GUTTER CHAIN, 8’16” gutter grates, like new; 530 Agrival feed cart. Call 320-241-4314. 11-TFN-F

GE 1 ½ HP STIRATOR MOTOR & Winpower 25/15 PT 2 generator, w/ powershaft and load cable. Call 320-845-4690. 6-2-F

SELLING DAIRY BARN, hardware, drinking cups, mats, trainers, grates, high moisture corn. Call 920-973-3283. 7-1-F

VERMEER 604R PREMIUM ROUND BALER, loaded, 900 bales, like new. Call 320-304-2311. 5-TFN-F

40’ SHEAHAN MANURE AUGER, like new, exc. shape, $7,000. Call 712-330-7536. 19-TFN-F2nd

(4) AGRISPEED HITCHES, $750/set. Call 952-393-3730. 5-3-F

NH 166 INVERTER w/ tip down extension, hyd. drive. Call 320-290-2602. 7-3-F

LOW-RATE FINANCING

ILLINOIS

Cissna Park, IL

Kaeb Sales, Inc. (815) 457-2649

IOWA

Don & Leo Wille Construction, LLC (563) 252-2034 Garnavillo, IA

MINNESOTA

NORTH DAKOTA

Western Farm Sales, Inc (701) 742-2348 Oakes, ND

SOUTH DAKOTA

Cliffs, Inc (920) 348-5153 Friesland, WI

Farmers’ Implement, LLC (262) 629-4104 Allenton, WI

(715) 449-2524 , Schmidt Building & Equip. LLC (920) 766-4622 Forest Junction, WI

Gorter’s Clay & Diary Equip. of MN, Inc. (507) 825-3271

Fieber Van’s Implement Inc. (605) 753-9834 Watertown, SD

Pipestone, MN

Hartung Sales & Service, Inc (320) 836-2697 Freeport, MN

Hobert Sales, Inc. (320) 286-6284 Cokato, MN

WISCONSIN

Anibas Silo & Equipment, Inc. (715) 285-5317 Arkansaw, WI

Hoover Silo Repair, LLC (715) 229-2527 Withee, WI

Kettlewell Welding & Concrete (920) 420-9498 Omro, WI

Knuth Farm Equipment LLC (920) 757-6995 Hortonville, WI

Spartan Construction Inc (920) 845-9892 Luxemburg, WI

Spiegelberg Implement, Inc. (920) 596-2610 Weyauwega, WI

Steinhart Farm Service, Inc. (608) 348-9401 Platteville, WI

Henning, MN

Mid-Central Equipment, Inc. (218) 583-2931

River Valley Sales, LLC (507) 523-3491 Lewiston, MN

Story Sales & Service, Inc. (507) 334-3724 Faribault, MN

Bindl Sales & Service, Inc (608) 524-6339 Reedsburg, WI

Carl F. Statz & Sons, Inc. (608) 849-4101 Waunakee, WI

C. F. Heckmann Co. Inc. (920) 693-8717 Newton, WI

Kraus Equipment (920) 894-2488 New Holstein, WI

L & L Sales & Service, Inc (920) 766-0603 Kaukauna, WI

P & D Sales and Service, LLC (920) 822-5145 Pulaski, WI

Tanner Equipment (920) 420-2471 Omro, WI

The Scharine Group, Inc. (608) 883-2880 Whitewater, WI

Zweifel Construction Inc. (608) 325-4298 Monroe, WI