Dairy St r World Dairy Expo Special Edition
September 11, 2010
What’s Inside...
Expect an expanded World Dairy Expo........Pages 1 - 2 Thyens show cows of many colors................Pages 3 -4 How many years have you attended Expo?.........Page 7 Sandy Acres in Expo’s virtual farm tour.... Pages 10 -11 Nabholz shares memories of National Cattle Congress......................... Pages 14, 16 World Dairy Expo launches interactive online maps......................................................Page 19 Descriptions of farms participating in virtual farm tours..............................................Page 21 Methane digesters, calf diets and feed costs all topics in Expo’s seminars...............................................Page 22
September 28-October 2, 2010 Alliant Energy Center • Madison, Wisconsin, USA
Expect an expanded World Dairy Expo 2010 WDE adds more space, keeps same schedule By Krista M. Sheehan Staff writer MADISON, Wis. – John Rozum, sales manager for World Dairy Expo, thinks American dairy producers have a great opportunity every October. “If you’re in the dairy industry this is your event,” Rozum said about World Dairy Expo. “This is the one (expo) you need to go to. Everyone that’s a player in the dairy industry is out here.” World Dairy Expo 2010 will be at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wis., from Sept. 28 to Oct. 2. Although World Dairy Expo will have the same attractions and schedule as in year’s past, it will have more space for the 2010 show. The commercial exhibit space in the outdoor trade mall has increased by 25,000 square feet. “We had to make changes because Turn to 2010 WDE / Page 2
Photo provided
The exhibition hall is part of the trade show for the World Dairy Expo at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wis. In order to make room for new exhibitors and larger equipment, the commercial exhibit space in the outdoor trade mall has increased by 25,000 square feet. Also, in order to gain more space, food courts will be closer to the Rimrock Road entrance.
Page 2 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
Continued from 2010 WDE / Page 1
DAIRY STHR
we had so many companies coming in,” Rozum said. “We had a lot of companies that were new or already there that wanted to show big equipment and we didn’t have the space for them.” In order to gain more space, the World Dairy Expo staff made some relocations. The food courts will now be closer to the Rimrock Road entrance, which created 28 new booth spaces. “We’ve created a much more pleasant seating area in the food court with a more park-like setting. It should be more comfortable for people coming to the show,” Rozum said. Rozum said more space this year means more forage equipment, and more exhibits featuring manure handling and management equipment, including a functioning digester. “Opening this area allowed us to get more equipment in so producers can see that much more variety,” Rozum said. The grazing pavilion, located close to the outdoor trade mall, will be the same in size and location as last year, but will now include a daily reception for grazers in the tent from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. There will also be seminars for grazers on one day. There will again be an international influence on World Dairy Expo this year with 26 different companies being represented in the 150 companies exhibiting. “It’s a very international group both in general and in new products,” Rozum said. “Expo is the place to go to see anything new because everyone is rolling out their latest and greatest or new products. They’ll put on their best show for farmers here.” Overall during World Dairy Expo, attendees can expect a similar schedule as last year. “This is a unique year in that we don’t have any major changes to the schedule and we don’t have many twists on the theme,” said Lisa Behnke, market-
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Photo by mark klaphake
World Dairy Expo sales manager, John Rozum, stands in the grazing pavilion during last year’s expo. Rozum said this year the pavilion will be the same in size and location but will now include a daily reception for grazers in the tent from 3 p.m to 6 p.m.
ing manager for World Dairy Expo. There will be a new lineup of virtual farm tours and seminar speakers. People of certain organizations who attend the seminars will be able to earn continuing education credits this year. Behnke said a small change this year is in one of the youth contests. The fitting contest and the showmanship contest will be separate, with the fitting contest on the Sunday before Expo starts and the showmanship contest on Thursday. A new interactive map on the World Dairy Expo Web site will be helpful to attendees. “It’s a cool feature for people to use before and after the show to help them find companies who exhibited,” Behnke said. The sounds of the cattle shows will also be available through the grounds. It will be broadcasted on a local FM radio
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station. “With the clippers buzzing and blowing up toplines, it’s hard to hear the PA system in the barn. This will be another way for exhibitors to know what’s going on in the ring,” Behnke said. “All the time, World Dairy Expo is trying to employ the latest and greatest technologies to make the show run efficiently.” She also said they try to create the best dairy expo experience for attendees. “The greatest thing a dairy man or woman can experience is the shot in the arm it (World Dairy Expo) give you. It’s an electric and enthusiastic atmosphere. Anyone who comes here has to feel good about their chosen profession because they’re surrounded by people who are really successful in the business,” Behnke said. “There’s no better way to spend a day or five days.”
World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 3
Cows of many colors
Thyens exhibit several breeds at World Dairy Expo By Jill Warren Staff writer
ATWATER, Minn. – A little variety is always good, and the show string at World Dairy Expo for Russ and Heather Thyen is just that. The Thyens have been walking an array of different breeds on the colored shavings for years. This will be the 16th World Dairy Expo they will show at together. The Thyens, along with Kim Olson and Gordon Larson, operate Oat Hill Dairy near Atwater, Minn. The dairy houses six different breeds of cattle, all of which see the show ring throughout the year. “We love to see every one of our animals have success,” Russ said. “No matter their color, no matter their owner.” Oat Hill Dairy was created with a conglomerate of different breed interests and backgrounds. All the owners grew up with Holsteins, and Red and White Holsteins made their appearance on the farm when the unique niche became a craze. Kim, who grew up on the Oat Hill Dairy farm site, brought Jerseys and Guernseys to the operation, Russ had an interest in Brown Swiss from growing up with a few of them on his home farm, and both Russ and Heather got involved with Milking Shorthorns by working with local Shorthorn breeders through their Select Sires jobs. The 90-cow milking herd consists of mostly Holsteins and Jerseys, with two Brown Swiss, eight Guernseys and eight Milking Shorthorns. The barn is a plethora of different colors and sizes. The show string for the Thyens is often made up of many different breeds as well. Oat Hill gives equal focus to improving each breed on its farm. At World Dairy Expo this year, representation from the Guernsey, Jersey and Milking Shorthorn breeds will be present. This is the first year in a long time that there will be no Red and White Holsteins in the show string. “Our goal is to have everything medal,” Russ said. As each breed has it’s own unique features, the Thyens point out that each individual animal also has its own personality. The combination of breed characteristics, along with animal and owner personalities dictates who gets to be the leader at each show. Everyone seems to have a favorite, and least favorite, animal. “It all depends on our moods the day of the show and the personality of the animal,” Heather said of who gets to show at Expo. You’ll most likely find Russ exhibiting the 5-year-old Jersey cow, Heather behind the halter of the Milking Shorthorns and Guernsey calf and Kim showing the Jersey calf. The teamwork at the show is a direct translation to how everyone works together at home. “Showing cows is not a one day deal,” Russ said. “None of this can be done without our support staff. From Katie Olson caring for the calves, our hoof trimmer’s dedication to our ani-
Photo by jill warren
The Thyens, along with Kim Olson and Gordon Larson, operate Oat Hill Dairy near Atwater, Minn. The dairy houses six different breeds of cattle. The Thyens, from left, Elizabeth, Russ and Heather, will be showing cattle at the World Dairy Expo for their 16th year.
mals and a lot of the outside help that we have at home and at shows.” That support staff has shared many victories over the years. This year they enjoyed success in many of their breeds’ shows; including being named the reserve grand champion Jersey and the reserve intermediate champion Milking Shorthorn at this year’s Minnesota State Fair. They were also involved in Nixs Lilly Pad’s success at World Dairy Expo in 2008, when she was named the grand champion Milking Shorthorn. Show season for the Thyens often runs from April to November. They have had success at county fairs, national shows, state fairs, and they hope to again have success at World Dairy Expo this year. With the numerous herdsmanship awards they have won at Expo over the years, as well as leading All-American and grand champion animals of numerous breeds on the colored shavings, no World Dairy Expo is as vivid as the one five years ago. “The most exciting Expo for us was five years ago, and it doesn’t even have anything to do with cows,” Heather said. “That’s when we got the call that we were getting Elizabeth.” Elizabeth is Thyens’ 4-year-old adopted daughter. While at Expo five years ago Heather got a phone call that Elizabeth was in foster care; something they had been waiting to hear for a while. Russ was in the show ring at the time and was alerted that he needed to go back to the barn immediately. Not knowing the reason for his prompt return, Russ was joyous to learn of Turn to Thyens / Page 4
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Page 4 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
Continued from Thyens / Page 3 Heather’s news. They immediately rushed home to welcome Elizabeth to their family. “Expo has a lot of important things for us, but we’ll never forget that year,” Heather said. Elizabeth has now grown to love the color variety of the animals on the farm. She is no stranger to the show ring, and enjoys telling visitors about her animals at various shows she attends with her parents. The variety of color at Oat
“The connections you make nationally and worldwide are amazing.”
- Russ Thyen Oat Hill Dairy
Hill Dairy simulates the diversity of World Dairy Expo. An assortment of cattle and an array of people make the World Dairy Expo a one-of-a-kind annual event. For Russ and Heather Thyen, World Dairy Expo is all about having a little variety. “The connections you make nationally and worldwide are amazing,” Russ said. “We love being at Expo.”
World Dairy Expo 2010: “Crowning Achievements – Golden Opportunities” World Dairy Expo will celebrate the global dairy industry in royal fashion, September 28 through October 2, at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wisconsin. More than 65,000 producers and industry enthusiasts from 90 countries are expected to attend the 44th annual event. World Dairy Expo sets the “gold standard” for industry events, featuring five full days of world-class competition among North America’s top dairy breeders. More than 2,500 head of dairy cattle will parade across the show’s famed, colored shavings. Seven national and international breed shows will culminate with the crowning of World Dairy Expo’s 2010 Supreme Champion. Five breed sales featuring top-shelf genetics will take place on the grounds during the week. The trade show at World Dairy Expo is second to none. Attendees can look forward to a gold mine of technology, products and services up and down every aisle. More than 750 companies from two dozen countries will present the world’s largest dairyfocused trade show, showcasing everything needed to manage a herd of dairy cows. Learn more about participating companies under the “Attendee Information” tab at www.worlddairyexpo. com. The site features a searchable keyword database and interactive maps to help you locate company booths at the show. World Dairy Expo also hosts numerous competitions, including national and international judging and skills contests at the 4-H, FFA, Intercollegiate and Post-Secondary levels. In addition, winners of the 2010 World Dairy Expo Championship Dairy Products Contest will be honored on the opening day of the show, and winning forage samples from the 2010 World Forage Analysis Superbowl will be on display throughout the week. An unparalleled opportunity to exchange ideas, World Dairy Expo offers free daily seminars on dairy management and other industry issues. These programs offer visitors technical expertise to stay knowledgeable and competitive in a global marketplace. Continuing education credits can be earned by members of the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists (ARPAS) and the American Association of State Veterinary Boards – RACE Program. Virtual farm tour programs allow attendees to explore a variety of successful dairy operations from across North America without leaving World Dairy Expo. The free half-hour visual presentations, led by dairy producers, are followed by a question and
Photo by mark klaphake
More than 2,500 head of dairy cattle will parade across the show’s famed, colored shavings this year. Seven national and international breed shows will culminate with the crowning of World Dairy Expo’s 2010 Supreme Champion.
answer session. Forage experts also share valuable information at free daily seminars held on the Dairy Forage Seminar Stage. Industry enthusiasts are invited to attend World Dairy Expo’s Dinner with the Stars on Wednesday evening, September 29. Four individuals will be recognized for their lifetime of service to the dairy industry. The 2010 honorees include: Liz Doornink, Wisconsin - Dairy Woman of the Year; Don Bennink, Florida Dairyman of the Year; Horace Backus, New York - Industry Person of the Year and Mr. Tadanaga Komori, Japan - International Person of the Year. Hours for World Dairy Expo are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Daily admission is $8 (US dollars) per person and season passes are $25 (US dollars) per person. Parking is free. For more information, contact World Dairy Expo at 608224-6455, via email at wde@wdexpo.com or visit www.worlddairyexpo.com.
World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 5
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Page 6 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
“The big attraction for me at WDE are the tremendous dairy shows.”
Harriet Brown, Hastings, Minn. Washington County 50 cows
How many years have you attended World Dairy Expo? My first visit to World Dairy Expo was in 1967. We found it difficult to attend regularly because we operated a 25-acre commercial apple orchard and Expo weekend was our busiest weekend for apple sales. In 1996 I was named World Dairy Expo Dairy Woman of the Year. I have attended WDE every year since then. What's the biggest attraction for you at World Dairy Expo? Why? The biggest attractions for me at WDE are the tremendous dairy shows. You will find me watching all the breed shows, but especially the Red and White show and the unbelievable Holstein show. Saturday I am at the arena before 7 a.m. to get my usual great seat. Why is this such an attraction for me? It's a privilege to watch the greatest dairy cows in North America parade on the colored shavings! What is a typical day like for you when you attend World Dairy Expo? I attend WDE Wednesday through Saturday, so each day is special. Wednesday evening I attend the Dinner with the Stars. Thursday, the past WDE Dairy Women have a noon luncheon to welcome our 2010 honoree. Then it's to another cow show.. Thursday evening I usually go to the Dairy Shrine Banquet. Friday I visit, shop at the "Purple Cow" and watch the Holstein show. That evening, with catalog in hand, I watch in awe the World Dairy Classic Sale. Saturday is show day and I sit and watch as the black and white beauties parade the colored shavings. Why is World Dairy Expo important to the dairy industry? WDE is important to the dairy industry because of the cutting edge technology that is exhibited. This technology is of interest to small, medium or large farms. Individual exhibits, virtual tours, cattle sales, barns filled with beautiful dairy cattle and food stands all in a wonderful setting make WDE a "must see" for dairy enthusiasts of all ages! Tell us about your farm. Apple Acres Farm was established in 1956. Today my son, Jim, and his wife, Diane, own and operate our 220-acre farm, milking in a tiestall barn and raising all our heifers. Jim and Diane have four children – Kayla (16), Joshua (14), Jacob (12) and Daniel (9). Diane is a full-time veterinarian in Hastings. I am the official transportation expert and "go-for," plus I help Jim with milking, calf chores, and I do the bookwork. I have 15 grandchildren.
World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 7
Students: How many years have you attended World Dairy Expo? Matt Henkes Sophomore at Iowa State University Monona, Iowa Dairy science major How many years have you attended World Dairy Expo? I have been going to World Dairy Expo since second grade. It started out that my family drove up on Thursday night and watched the Holstein shows. We started showing in 2003 when we sent one heifer with friends and then in 2004 we had our own string. We haven’t missed a year since. Why are you going to World Dairy Expo this year? This year my family is showing again. We have one Guernsey calf, one red and white Holstein heifer and two red and white Holstein cows. I also will compete in showmanship.
Labecca Johnson Sophomore at University of Wisconsin-River Falls LaCrescent, Minn. Ag marketing communications How many years have you attended World Dairy Expo? I have attended World Dairy Expo for as long as I can remember, from the young age of 6 years-old walking through the dairy barns and seeing all of the amazing cows. Why are you going to World Dairy Expo this year? To see current trends in the dairy industry as well as to watch the dairy show and witness extraordinary genetics at its prime.
What are three things at World Dairy Expo that you look forward to? What are three things at World Dairy Expo that you look forward to? 1. Cows. Seeing all of the genetics and production put behind the pride and I enjoy walking through the barns, and talking to the breeders and friends passion for dairy farming. 2. Friends and exhibitors that you don’t get to see we see each year at Expo. After that I would say watching the naming of everyday. 3. Watching Supreme Champion and all the breed shows. supreme champion and going to watch the start of the World Classic sale When was the first time you attended World Dairy Expo? What was because you never know what they will do from year to year. your impression? My first time attending World Dairy expo was when When was the first time you attended World Dairy Expo? What was I was about 6 years-old. My first impression was that there were a lot of your impression? When I was in second grade. I remember my teacher cows. I love going to Expo every year for the enjoyment of meeting with could not understand why I was getting out of school for a cow show. The other producers that share the common goal of caring for their animals first time I walked in the show ring I was in shock by how big it was and and land. They come together to show their farm and cows to people from around the world and to tell their story of producing one of the nation’s all the decorations. most perfect foods….milk.
Mike Donnelly Senior at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities Farmington, Minn. Agricultural education – leadership and communications
Jacob Achen Sophomore at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Sauk Centre, Minn. Animal science major with an emphasis in dairy production
How many years have you attended World Dairy Expo? I have been attending World Dairy Expo for five years.
How many years have you attended World Dairy Expo? I’ve been going for three years.
Why are you going to World Dairy Expo this year? My Family and I Why are you going to World Dairy love showing and exhibiting dairy Expo this year? This year I have cattle at shows, especially Expo. We the privilege of chaperoning a group go every year because it gets more of 25 Minnesota 4-H youth during exciting from year to year. We make the National 4-H Dairy Conference. friends and meet people that share During my free time at World Dairy the same interests as us. We learn Expo I plan to watch the world-class and share ideas with other breeders dairy cattle show as well as meeting industry professionals and learning about the newest advancements in the from across the nation. It is also a great marketing tool. This is the World Dairy Expo, so there are people dairy industry. from all across the globe looking at our cattle. What are three things at World Dairy Expo that you look forward to? The three things I most look forward to at World Dairy Expo include: 1. What are three things at World Dairy Expo that you look forward to? Meeting and visiting with some of the dairy industry’s most accomplished The three things that I look forward to at the World Dairy Expo are the Suindividuals. 2. Knowing that no matter which direction you turn, there is preme Champion selection of the junior and open show, walking my Milksomeone who enjoys the dairy industry just as much as you do. 3. Watch- ing Shorthorns on the colored shavings and working with my family and ing the shows and walking through the barns to see some the world’s best friends doing what we love to do. dairy cattle. When was the first time you attended World Dairy Expo? What was When was the first time you attended World Dairy Expo? What was your impression? My first time was in 2007, and I was a little overwhelmed your impression? This first time I attended World Dairy Expo was in 2005 from the quality of the animals and the products that were marketed at the as a delegate of the National 4-H Dairy Conference. It was overwhelming trade show. to know that there was so much to see in so little time. I was hooked and knew that it would not be the last time I would attend World Dairy Expo.
Page 8 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
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Page 10 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
Expo’s virtual farm tour focuses on calf feeder
Sandy Acres Dairy one of eight farms featured By Jill Warren Staff writer ELK MOUND, Wis. – It took some convincing on Marie Pagenkopf’s part to get her family on board with automatic calf feeders. But after all was said and done, the automatic calf feeder has earned its keep and has proven successful for Sandy Acres Dairy. Since May 2009, Jeff and Marie Pagenkopf have been using an automatic calf feeder on their dairy, and they will showcase their success with it as part of the World Dairy Expo’s virtual tours on Saturday, Oct. 2. “It’s worked really well for us,” said Marie, who handles the majority of the calf care. “We’ve gone from individual housing to this group housing, and the calves are doing well.” The Pagenkopfs own and operate Sandy Acres Dairy near Elk Mound, Wis. They milk 480 cows, farm 1,000 acres of alfalfa and corn, and they raise their own replacement heifers. Calves are separated into two groups based on age, with each pen averaging around 25 animals. Calves are introduced to the feeder at 4 to 6 days old, once they are drinking well from a bottle. Calves are kept on the feeder until they are 56 days old. A computer system allows Marie to input each individual calf when she
Photo submitted
Since May 2009, Jeff and Marie Pagenkopf have been using an automatic calf feeder on their dairy. The Pagenkopfs will be a part of the World Dairy Expo’s virtual tours on Oct. 2.
starts it on the feeder. A standard of 56 days is set on the computer, but she can adjust for longer time if she feels a calf is smaller to start, or is not doing well part-way through. She does a routine check of each calf about 14 days before the expected weaning date. The computer gradually increases the milk allotment for each calf as they get older, and then it begins to graduTurn to Pagenkopfs / Page 11
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World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 11
Continued from Pagenkopfs / Page 10
Photo submitted
The Pagenkopfs, from left, Kayla, Jeff and Marie, own and operate Sandy Acres Dairy near Elk Mound, Wis. They milk 480 cows and farm 1,000 acres of alfalfa and corn. They will be featured in one of eight virtual farm tours during the World Dairy Expo.
ally decrease the milk as the calf gets closer to weaning. Both pens have access to free-choice calf starter feed and hot water. Calves are allowed multiple milk feedings per day. “We’ve only lost about five out of 250 calves in the last year,” Marie said. “And it was because of other issues not related to the calf feeder.” Milk replacer is added to the feeder everyday, and the 50 calves are consuming a combined 100 pounds a day, which is up about 10 percent from before the calf feeder. Average daily weight gain for the calves is up, and antibiotic treatments have gone down. Prior to the calf feeder, the Pagenkopfs were raising their calves in individual pens, but were having disease problems despite their commitment to keeping clean pens and sanitary worker conditions. “We’d get a bug in one calf, and it would go right down the line no matter how clean we tried to be,” Marie said. “We have a lot less problems now, and I think it’s the socialization and interaction that keeps them healthy.” Cleanliness and calf monitoring are still top priorities for the Pagenkopfs. “Don’t think it’s going to babysit your calves,” Marie said about the technology. “It’s a labor savor, but you still have to take time to manage.” A walkthrough is done twice a day to check for calves that look bloated, calves that don’t want to get up, or any other abnormalities. Marie does the walkthrough every morning and another employee does it in the afternoon. Pens are thoroughly cleaned out every one to two weeks, and Marie checks the feeding tube in the automatic calf feeder everyday for damage or buildup. The nipple can last four weeks, and
Marie changes the tube that runs from the feeder to the nipple every week. Aside from daily walkthroughs and milk replacer fillings, Marie still has to take time to bottle feed newborn calves, as well as train claves to use the feeder – which usually takes three to four days. “The older the calf is when they are introduced to the feeder, the longer it seems to take them to learn,” Marie said. Pagenkopfs raise Holsteins, Brown Swiss and Holstein-Swiss crossbreds, and Marie said each breed does relatively well on the feeder. The thing Pagenkopfs like best is the resiliency of calves once they are weaned. “There’s no transition after they’re weaned. They’re already used to competing for food and water,” Marie said. “They don’t struggle after weaning because they’ve always been in a group setting.” Calf health has improved, and Marie has enjoyed the time flexibility the automatic calf feeder has given her. She no longer has set times to feed calves, which has allowed her versatility to help with other chores. “The feeder has paid for itself in one year,” Marie said. “Calves are a lot bigger, and it’s saved us on labor costs. We’ve been able to cut one full-time position.” The automatic calf feeder is a good fit for Sandy Acres Dairy. Pagenkopf’s 23-year-old daughter, Kayla, has returned to the farm, and she is looking forward to the future of the dairy. “It’s good to see that [our daughter] is excited about the feeder and the overall future of the farm,” Marie said. “The calf feeder has really been worthwhile.”
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Page 12 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
Introducing... With
“Our day starts with trying to take in as much of the trade show and viewing of cattle as possible.”
At World Dairy Expo 2010! Come check out the variety of products we can offer: • Automatic Calf Feeders • Calf Milk Pasteurizers • Calf Milk Dispensers For information Call: 920-866-2485 or Email: gregabts@netscape.net
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Jim and Laurie Orth and their daughters, Katelyn (20) and Eryn (15) Golden Prairie Dairy, Winona, Minn.; Winona County; 60 cows
How many years have you attended World Dairy Expo? We have attended World Dairy Expo with the girls the last seven years. This is very much a family event for us. Our girls look forward to World Dairy Expo every year. What’s the biggest attraction for you at World Dairy Expo? Why? Watching the naming of supreme champion would have to be the highlight of our visit to World Dairy Expo. It’s exciting to see all the high quality cows. What is a typical day like for you when you attend World Dairy Expo? Our day starts with trying to take in as much of the trade show and viewing of cattle as possible. We never seem to see as much as we like because we run into many old friends from back when we showed Guernseys at World Dairy Expo in 1989 and 1990. What information do you hope to acquire to improve your dairy operation? We enjoy seeing the improvements made to the genetics in the industry. We like to bring that information home to see it work on our herd. Why is World Dairy Expo important to the dairy industry? We feel World Dairy Expo is a great place to see beautiful cows, new technology and new techniques all in one place. As farmers, we are always trying to find the best ways to improve our herd and our facilities. Tell us about your farm. We run about 157 acres of hay, corn and oats. We milk our 60 cows in a tiestall barn. The herd mostly consists of Jerseys, Holsteins, Guernseys and some crossbreds. We raise all our youngstock with the help of our two daughters: Katelyn (20), who is a junior at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, and Eryn (15), who is a sophomore at Lewiston-Altura High School. They show in youth open shows and 4-H shows including the state 4-H dairy show. They are also involved in dairy judging.
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World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 13
“The youth are the future of the dairy industry.” Visit Udder Comfort at All-American Dairy Show: Booth open Mon. Sept. 20 through Wed., Sept. 22. & World Dairy Expo in the Coliseum Arena Level (AL 165-166) Sept. 28 through Oct. 2
GREG EVANS, Georgetown, NY with his three-year-old Sunny Acres Harmonys Kennedy, great-granddaughter of the great Kineta, picured on the farm sign. Kennedy was 2009 Intermediate Champion at All-American. “Every animal writes its own story,” says Greg Evans of the Ayrshires at Sunny Acres Farm, Georgetown, New York. He and his brother Andrew and sisters Laura and Rachel are among the thousands of young people to have shown at the All-American in Harrisburg and World Dairy Expo in Madison. In some ways, the cattle help each young person growing up on the dairy farm to “write their own stories” as well. They learn values they take with them into future careers and on the dairy farm. “The youth are the future of the dairy industry,” observes Mark Comfort, co-owner of Udder Comfort™. “We realize the tremendous investment of time and money they have in showing their cattle. We want to be an encouragement to them for a bright future.” In this spirit of encouragement, the company supports Junior events at both shows.
The Udder Comfort team extends best wishes to all for the 2010 show season, and our sincere thanks for making Udder Comfort the “choice of champions.”
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Page 14 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
Nabholz shares memories of National Cattle Congress Iowa native will judge Ayrshires, market book at World Dairy Expo By Kelli Boylen Staff Writer West Union, Iowa – Norm Nabholz has had the title of his book in his head for years. But, it was just this August that he finally held a completed copy of “Millionaires in the Cornfield – The Glory Days of the National Cattle Congress” in his hand. “I probably enjoyed writing that book more than I have ever enjoyed anything in the dairy business,” he said. Nabholz’s earliest memories of the Cattle Congress go back as far as he can remember. He is not able to pick one thing about the event that sticks out the most in his mind. “The whole thing is one great memory,” he said. “The smells of the barn, the professionalism that everyone exhibited, everything.” It is this deep-seeded love and respect of the Cattle Congress that Nabholz holds that shows through in his writing. “If you are looking for a literary masterpiece this isn’t it,” he said with a laugh. But you will find stories of the glory days of one of the greatest cattle shows of all time. His book starts out, “I can still remember the smells inside of the warm barn #2, the Jersey barn. Wheat straw, timothy hay, pine wood shavings, clean cows. In all their glory were some of the greatest cows God created, all and the men who took care of them… Life was perfect for me. How could it not be, with May Lads Wallflower, Pinn Blonde Oakland and the rest of the Heaven Hill herd laying there chewing their cuds?... The National Dairy Cattle Congress located in Iowa corn country was the home to the World’s Greatest Dairy Cattle show. The following chapters tell just a little of the cattle, their caretakers and their owners –
from the wealthiest people in the world to dirt farmers who would gather every autumn in Waterloo, Iowa, to compete during the glory years for this one of kind exhibition.” The Cattle Congress began in 1910, and for 55 years was the “gathering place for some of North America’s most influential business leaders with a common denominator, the love of dairy cattle and the competition.” Back in the day, businessmen from across the U.S. – from brewery owners to candy bar makers often owned dairy herds. Most Iowans are familiar with the Maytag Dairy, but easily recognizable business owners with names like Schlitz, Pabst, and Gamble (of Proctor and Gamble) owned herds as well. The cattle would arrive in boxcars, traveling from across the nation. Many show crews spent much of the late summer and early fall traveling the show circuit, and had the stories to go with that amount of traveling. The boxcars were maintained with the same care exhibitors still have today in the show barns, and cattle were usually clean enough they could walk from boxcar to the showring. Photo by kelli boylen The rich businessmen would often watch Norm Nabholz recently published his first book “Millionaires in the Cornfrom the stands, wearing their suits and field – The Glory Days of the National Cattle Congress.” In addition to ties. judging at World Dairy Expo this year, he will also be marketing his book. In peak years, there were between 1,200 and 1,500 cattle exhibited at the show, and the Cattle Congress lasted up dairyagendatoday.com, and these stories He has started marketing the books to eight days. became chapters of the book. mid-August through dairyagendatoday. In 1965, the operators of the Cattle There are 27 chapters in the 262 pag- com and Holstein World. Congress decided to survey the people es, divided up mostly by exhibitors, with He will be selling the book at the attending the show. Based on the results, chapter names such as “Boulder Bridge 2010 Cattle Congress Sept 16-19, the the event became more of an urban fair Farm,” “Lyon-Lang, “Curtiss Candy” and North American International Livestock than dairy show. Within a few years, the “Chambric.” Exposition show in Louisville Nov 16breed associations stopped holding their In addition to the stories, there are 19, and he will be selling them at World national shows there, and things were for- many photos dating back to the 1940 and Dairy Expo at the dairyagendatoday.com ever changed. 50s. Many of the photos were shared by booth (Coliseum, Arena Level, booth Nabholz compiled stories after talk- Agri-Graphics, Hoard’s Dairyman and 186). ing to more people than he could easily people he talked to. World Dairy Expo will be a busy keep track over the years. Some of the He self-published the book, deliver- time for Nabholz in addition to marketing stories date from way back and have al- ing it to the printers copy-ready thanks to his book – he is also a fourth-time dairy ways stuck with him. Some were more the help of Gretchen Taylor. show judge. recently gathered. He said he has had really good re- He last judged Jerseys in 2005, and In May of 2009, Nabholz began sponse so far, and many have had good Turn to Nabholz / Page 16 writing down the stories of the past for comments after reading it.
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World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 15
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Page 16 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
Continued from Nabholz / Page 14
Photo by kelli boylen
Norm Nabholz commissioned these unique models with an artist in northwest Iowa. Each model is a one-of-a-kind work of art that will be sold at the Dairy Dinner the evening of Sept. 16 at the Cattle Congress grounds, (the day of the Jersey and Brown Swiss Sale).
this year it will be Ayrshires. He has also judged the World Dairy Expo Jersey class in 1991 and Ayrshires in 1992. His first professional judging experience was in the mid 1970s at the Red River Valley Fair in North Dakota. From there, “things just started.” Soon he was judging state fairs and he has even traveled to Australia, Argentina, Ecuador and Mexico over the years. “My dad was a great cow man,” he said when reflecting about his dairy judging past. “We talked cows in the barn; we talked cows at the dinner table. It was what we did, and it was imprinted on me.” Nabholz grew up on his family’s dairy farm, and attended Iowa State for their judging team. After college he started in the dairy sale business, and that is what he has done since. Being chosen as a judge is definitely an honor, as the judges are voted on by the previous year’s exhibitors. He judges anywhere from two to twenty dairy shows a year, and he enjoys them all. “I like to look at cows, analyze them, and be out in the middle to see them up close. It is really fun.” World Dairy Expo judges have the opportunity to choose their own associates, and this year he choose Randy Franks of DeWitt, Iowa. As much as Nabholz is looking forward to seeing great cows up close in the show ring, he said he is really looking forward to working with Franks. Anyone looking for more information about Millionaires in the Cornfield or any of Nabholz’s other projects can contact him at nabholz@hawkeyetel.com or 563-422-3692, or visit with him at the Cattle Congress, World Dairy Expo or NAILE.
Champions of National Cattle Congress
At the Dairy Dinner Thursday evening, Sept. 16 at the Cattle Congress grounds, (the day of the Jersey and Brown Swiss Sale), Nabholz will be selling small models of six of the greatest cattle champions to ever grace the grounds of the National Cattle Congress. He commissioned Carol Herden to re-create these fine cows, and the attention to detail is breathtaking. Each of the six models are one of a kind, and the mold has been broken. Each model sells with a certificate of authenticity and their portrait is included. Cattle made into the models are: • Netherhall Swanky Dan, an Ayrshire owned throughout most of his career by the Curtiss Candy Company. Swanky Dan accumulated 84 championships from coast to coast, including four-time grand champion at the Cattle Congress. • Aftons Golden Marie, a Guernsey also owned by the Curtiss Candy Company. Maries traveled extensively in the 1940s and 50s, and was a two-time grand champion in Waterloo. • Mabels Tamarind Violet, a Brown Swiss owned during her show years by Welcome In Farm and Lee’s Hill farm. Selling with Violet is a mint Welcome In sale catalog. • Favorite Golden Lad, a Jersey representing Iowa, that was also a four-time grand champion at Cattle Congress. • Lyon Jesileus Madeline, also a Jersey from Iowa. She was the anchor of the Lyon Jerseys’ “day to remember” in 1958. • Harborcrest Rose Milly is the Holstein model and one of the most influential champions of all time. She was the National Show champion in 1964 and 65, and the dam of Paclamar Astronaut.
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World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 17
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Page 18 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
“I like to look at all the daughters and see what the hot new bulls are.” Rick Pagel, Mantorville, Minn. Dodge County, 70 cows How many years have you attended World Dairy Expo? I’ve been there 29 years. I’ve only missed three years since 1978. For the past few years I’ve worked for Richard Green from Delaware and Barclay Phoenix from Ontario, Canada. What’s the biggest attraction for you at World Dairy Expo? Why? The cow shows. It’s the Super Bowl of cow shows. The best cows are out there on the colored shavings.
What is a typical day like for you when you attend World Dairy Expo? For the last three years while I’ve been working for other breeders I spend my time in the barn. There really are no days and nights because the day starts at 4 a.m. and goes until midnight. I keep the display in order and work with the cows, clipping and washing them.
What information do you hope to acquire to improve your dairy operation? I like to look at all the daughters and see what the hot new bulls are. After looking at the cows I can decide which bulls to use on the cows at home.
Why is World Dairy Expo important to the dairy industry? There are two reasons: first, it’s a great place to see good registered cows of any breed. You get to see what shows, which bulls are being used, what other people are doing on their farm and look at the displays in the barns. On the other hand, it’s a great place to go through the trade show and see all the new technology out there in the dairy industry. There’s no better place to see it.
Tell us about your farm. I manage the cows on the farm and own them in partnership with John Bierbaum. We also have a boarding business, where we usually have about five to 25 cows depending on the time of year. We raise about 200 acres of crops. We grow our own forages and have them custom harvested and buy all our grain.
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World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 19
World Dairy Expo launches interactive online maps
The Upsi-Daisy Cow Lifting Chair
Visitors from around the globe can now log onto www.worlddairyexpo.com and click on the “Attendee Information” tab to learn more about each of the 750plus companies participating in this year’s show. World Dairy Expo Sales Manager, John Rozum says “We are really excited to provide this year-round resource. In addition to a full listing of our exhibitors, you can now search our site for very specific information about each one. Dairy producers are sure to find this tool valuable before, during and after the show.” Interactive options include: • Up-to-date lists of World Dairy Expo’s exhibitors, featuring company name, product category, booth location and web address. • Individual maps of the grounds, including the Outdoor Trade Mall, Exhibition Hall, Coliseum, Arena Building and Grazing Pavilion, that allow you to scroll over booth locations and see the name of the company occupying that space as well as their address and contact information. • Dairy producers who are looking for specific products or equipment will appreciate the search function of the site. For instance, if you are looking for products to treat mastitis, simply type the word into the search bar and an instantaneous list of all exhibitors supplying mastitis treatments appears along with their booth location and website link. Click on individual maps, and these same exhibitors’ booths are highlighted. Rozum notes, “Each year World Dairy Expo’s trade show features the best tools, products, equipment and technology to manage a dairy operation. We’re hoping our new search function and interactive maps help connect dairy producers with our exhibitors all year long.”
A unique chair like design which supports the skeletal frame of the cow and delivers a controlled and safe lift every time. Easy to use and doesn’t injure the cow. For more information and view a video go to www.upsidaisycowlifter.com, phone 563-451-2242, or visit the UPSI-DAISY COWLIFTING booth #TM BW10.5 at the 2010 World Dairy Expo for a demonstration.
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Page 20 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
“I am interested in the latest technology, but I am more intrigued with the genetics. Denny Popp, Rice, Minn. Benton County 25 cows
How many years have you attended World Dairy Expo? I attended World Dairy Expo for the first time in 1967. My wife, Mary, and I have gone off and on since then. We have exhibited at WDE twice and have attended consistently the past 10 years. What’s the biggest attraction for you at World Dairy Expo? Why? The dairy shows. World Dairy Expo gives you the opportunity to see the best cattle in the country in one place.
What is a typical day like for you when you attend World Dairy Expo? I make it a two-day trip. The first day I like to watch the Red and White Holstein Show and the Holstein Heifer Show, followed by visiting Exhibition Hall to see the exhibits. In the evening, I enjoy walking through the barns and visiting with fellow dairymen and then going to the World Classic Sale. On Saturday, I mainly watch the Holstein Cow Show and get gifts for the grandchildren (probably the most enjoyable part).
What information do you hope to acquire to improve your dairy operation? I am interested in the latest technology, but I am more intrigued with the genetics and how they are factoring in the true type Holstein cow. Why is World Dairy Expo important to the dairy industry? Because World Dairy Expo gives dairymen an opportunity to see the latest technology and the top show cattle exhibited all in one place.
Tell us about your farm. I farm with my wife, Mary, near Rice, Minn. We have four grown children and four grandchildren. After a cattle sale in 2005, we currently have a small herd. We are flushing some cows and doing embryo transfer work. We farm 480 acres of corn, soybeans, wheat and alfalfa.
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World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 21
Virtual Farm Tours
Visit dairies from around the U.S. without leaving World Dairy Expo 2010. Virtual Farm Tours will focus on a variety of management topics, including: farm longevity, innovative reproductive tools, grazing benefits, managing transition cows, a research dairy herd, family succession, environmental stewardship and robotic calf feeders. These free tours will be presented daily, Tuesday through Saturday, in the Mendota 1 meeting room in the Exhibition Hall. The managers will present a half-hour pictorial view of their operation, including general operation information and highlights of exceptional management practices. Time for questions and discussion will follow. The tours will be available for viewing on World Dairy Expo’s website after the show. AgSource Cooperative Services, American Jersey Cattle Association, Grow Wisconsin Dairy Team, Kansas Department of Commerce, Land O’Lakes Purina Feed, Quality Liquid Feeds and Semex and Structures Unlimited LLC are sponsors of the 2010 Virtual Farm Tours. Following is a short biography and description of each tour: Tuesday, September 28, 2 p.m. Hosted by: Valley-Drive Holsteins, LLC, Campbellsport, WI 200 Milking/Adaptation Leads to Longevity Sponsored by: Structures Unlimited LLC Over six generations have lived and worked at Valley-Drive Holsteins, LLC and it continues to thrive today. Homesteaded in 1846, the farm has grown from its original 40 acres to encompass a milking herd of 200 cows with modern milking facilities on 230 acres. Jeff Hayes and his family, including his mother Merlene and partner Daryl Winter, focus on good cows and good management to keep their business thriving. Cows are bred to the top sires available and embryos are shipped worldwide. Over a quarter of the herd can be traced back to a purchase at the 1991 Agri-Prize sale, Con-Acres-HS Zara. Additionally, cow comfort is a focus for Valley-Drive Holsteins. A new facility was built in 2007 which features a double five parlor and freestall housing. Currently, the herd has a rolling herd average of 24,832 pounds of milk and a BAA of 106.4. Wednesday, September 29, Noon Hosted by: Stewart Farms Inc., Nampa, ID 630 Milking/Innovative Reproductive Tools Sponsored by: Semex As new innovations for farm management emerge, Stewart Farms Inc. is a quick adopter of these technologies. Joe Stewart, along with his brother Jere and parents Jim and Marcella, own and operate Stewart Farms Inc. Currently, the farm uses activity detection devices that cows wear around their necks. By monitoring daily activity logs, the system has helped to pinpoint cows in heat, resulting in optimal breeding time while reducing labor and cost. Since the adoption of the system, Stewart has seen conception rates rise to 54.5 percent, number of days open reduced by 30 days, the calving interval decreased to 12.6 months and the average number of services per conception decreased from 3.4 to 2.4. Additionally, the farm uses a feed tracking system that adjusts daily feed usage, resulting in 100 percent feed consumption and reducing the feed cost per cow by $2 dollars daily. Stewart Farms is home to 630 milk cows with a rolling herd average of 26,504 pounds of milk. Wednesday, September 29, 2 p.m. Hosted by: Clover Patch Dairy, Millersburg, OH 420 Milking/ Grazing Benefits Sponsored by: American Jersey Cattle Association Operating a dairy farm that provides a high quality of life for family and employees, plus achieves long-term financial security for its owners, has been a nearly 20-year endeavor for Alan and Sharon Kozak. Every aspect of their enterprise, Clover Patch, reflects thoughtful planning and careful execution, plus perseverance in overcoming mistakes and setbacks. The Kozaks started in the dairy business in 1991 by renting the complete facility and focusing ownership efforts on cattle. They have continued that strategy to this day. By eliminating Johne’s disease, controlling involuntary culling, achieving low death losses in the replacement program, and using sexed semen, their Registered Jersey™ herd has grown to over 800 head with continuous sales of excess stock. With the dairy situated on 450 acres in north-central Ohio, the Kozaks have access to milk markets that reward them for producing milk averaging 4.8% milkfat and 3.7% protein. Intensive management of grazing pastures and hay fields, supplemented by year-round TMR, supports 60 pounds daily production per cow. Thursday, September 30, Noon Hosted by: Ripp’s Dairy Valley, Dane, WI 860 Milking/Managing Transition Cows Sponsored by: AgSource Cooperative Services Ripp’s Dairy Valley is a family affair that focuses on the comfort and productivity of their cows. The dairy is owned and operated by brothers Gary, Troy and Chuck Ripp and their families, with wives and children helping with the day-to-day operations. The partnership was formed back in 1975 and culminated with the farm becoming an LLC in 2004. During that time, the herd also grew from 260 cows to the current day herd size of 860 cows. As the herd grew, new tools for measuring herd performance were integrated, including fresh cow evaluation. By using the Transition Cow Index®, developed by the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, they were able to evaluate fresh cow performance and health. The Ripps discovered that numerous cows had negative values indicating a poor start to the lactation. To ensure healthier cows and better lactation performance, the dairy constructed a new transition cow barn in 2008. Today, cows get a better start after calving and as a result, Ripps Dairy Valley has a rolling herd average of 32,856 pounds of milk.
Thursday, September 30, 2 p.m. Hosted by: University of Minnesota Teaching & Research Facility, St. Paul, MN 130 Milking/Research Dairy Herd Sponsored by: Quality Liquid Feeds The University of Minnesota Dairy Teaching & Research Facility is committed to making a better future for the dairy industry. This facility focuses on researching the newest techniques for feeding and managing calves, heifers, and lactating and dry cows. A large amount of time and resources are dedicated to dry and transition cow research, to evaluate practical applications for moderate-energy dry cow diets: identifying forage alternatives to reduce feed costs, and the use of molasses-based liquid supplements to increase digestibility, intake, and reduce sorting. The facilities and herd have helped scientists and students conduct research for over 100 years, resulting in nearly 25,000 research articles published. However, the research doesn’t stop in the barn; milk is utilized for dairy product research, and cheese and ice cream sales on campus. Additionally, the facility serves as a teaching tool to visitors as well, educating thousands of people from intercity youth to international students.
Friday, October 1, Noon Hosted by: Cycle Farm, Sturgeon Bay, WI 240 Milking/Family Succession Sponsored by: Grow Wisconsin Dairy Team Formally bringing the next generation into the family business is an exciting time. However, the decision making on how to grow, structure and run the business can bring their own set of dynamics and challenges. Tony Brey returned home to Sturgeon Bay, Wis. in 2007 to join his parents Bill and Clarice Brey in their farming operation and his brother Jacob is a sophomore in the Dairy Science program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The family recently enrolled in the Wisconsin Dairy Farm Management Team program to gain a more solid understanding of succession planning. In the program, they utilize a management team and receive consultation about future expansions, business planning and passing the farm to the next generation. Cycle Farm is home to 240 registered Holstein cows with a rolling herd average of 23,000 pounds of milk and a BAA of 107.6, the highest in the country for herds with 150 to 199 cows. Cycle Farm is so named because of the ever-changing aspects of dairy farming.
Friday, October 1, 2 p.m. Hosted by: Royal Farms Dairy, Garden City, KS 6150 Milking/Environmental Stewards Sponsored by: Kansas Department of Commerce Royal Farms Dairy has emerged as a steward of land and resources through their water conservation efforts. The dairy minimizes water usage by using each gallon multiple times. Water that is used to cool milk is also used to flush pens and holding areas. Ultimately, this water is then stored in the lagoon until it is used to strategically fertilize and irrigate 1,600 acres, including the dairy’s and a neighboring farm’s fields. Royal Farms Dairy hopes to increase the number of irrigated acres to 2,720 acres in 2011. For their efforts, they have been honored with the Kansas Banker’s Association Environmental Stewardship Award. The dairy is a partnership of manager, Kyle Averhoff, the Irsik Family, two partners living in Washington and two partners living in Nevada. In a state where crop production is dominant and very few families make a living on less than 1,000 acres, Royal Farms Dairy is able to employ 62 people, milk 6200 cows, and house 5600 heifers all on the net consumption of water equivalent to 1-2 circles of irrigated corn. It is easy to see that this kind of economic development is very powerful for the local communities and businesses.
Saturday, October 2, Noon Hosted by: Sandy Acres Dairy, Elk Mound, WI 480 Milking/Robotic Calf Feeders Sponsored by: Land O’Lakes Purina Feed In April 2009, Sandy Acres Dairy, owned by Jeff and Marie Pagenkopf, installed a robotic calf feeder to help streamline their feeding program and minimize labor and treatment costs associated with raising more than 250 calves per year. With the robotic calf feeder, calves receive multiple milk feedings per day in group settings, which has improved nutrient intake, increased average daily weight gain, and minimized the use of antibiotics and costly treatments. The robotic calf feeder has also reduced labor needs by eliminating manual mixing and feeding of milk replacer, allowing the Pagenkopfs more time to monitor calf growth and performance and check for signs of health challenges. In addition, the Pagenkopfs observed that because their calves are well-nourished and accustomed to group pens, they experience less stress from co-mingling with other calves during the post-weaning transition. The Pagenkopfs found their investment in a robotic calf feeder worthwhile.
Page 22 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
Methane digesters, calf diets and feed costs all topics in Expo’s seminars
Dairy producers and industry representatives from around the globe will gather in Madison, Wisconsin, when World Dairy Expo takes place September 28 – October 1. World Dairy Expo strives to be a leader in education and new technology. This year, continuing education credits for dairy professionals, nutritionists, veterinarians and veterinary technicians can be earned by attending the World Dairy Expo Seminars. Members of American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists (ARPAS) and the American Association of State Veterinary Boards – RACE Program (RACE) can earn one credit for each seminar they attend. “Veterinarians and dairy professionals will see the latest technology displayed at World Dairy Expo’s trade show and the finest in dairy genetics on parade at the dairy cattle shows held during the week. Now, in addition, they can earn continuing education credits. This is a great added feature for a trip they are already making,” says Liz Matzke, seminar coordinator. There will be eight seminars held during the week, Tuesday through Saturday, in Mendota 2 meeting room located in the Exhibition Hall. Seminars are structured with a 45-minute presentation, plus time for questions and discussion. Seminar topics and credits that can be earned are listed below. Participants will learn more about: methane digesters, genomic testing, calf diets, new management technologies, feed costs, the global dairy outlook, reproductive tools and mycotoxins. Additionally, all seminars will be available for viewing after World Dairy Expo at www.worlddairyexpo.com. ABS Global, Advanced Comfort Technology, Alltech, APC, Inc., Badgerland Financial, BASF Plant Science, Jamesway Farm Equipment and Micro Dairy Logic are sponsors of this year’s seminars. Following is a brief synopsis of each Expo Seminar. “Opportunities to Advance Manure Digesters in the US” Tuesday, September 28, 1 p.m. Christopher Voell, Program Manager-AgSTAR, EPA Climate Change Division Sponsored by: Jamesway Farm Equipment Continuing Education Credits: ARPAS (1), RACE (1) There are currently 150 operating manure digesters at US livestock facilities across the US, with potential for 3,000-4,000 additional digesters. However, many policy and financial barriers stand in the way of farms realizing their own digester. Manure digester projects provide both environmental and economic posChristopher Voell sibilities, including greenhouse gas reductions, renewable energy AgSTAR generation, reducing air, land and water concerns, and providing revenue diversification for producers and rural communities. Christopher Voell will discuss the opportunities and hurdles to manure digester project implementation. Voell works in the US and abroad with producers, project developers, utilities and government agencies to advance the development of renewable biogas. “Recent Developments in Genetic Testing and Predicting Genetic Values” Wednesday, September 29, 11 a.m. Dr. Curt Van Tassell, Research Geneticist, USDA – ARS Sponsored by: ABS Global Continuing Education Credits: ARPAS (1), RACE (1) Single nucleotide polymorphism assays, more commonly known as genomic testing, are used to predict the genetic merit animals possess. As the technology evolves, the ability and cost to test for certain genes has become more readily available. High density testing provides detailed amounts of information on numerous gene pairs, while low density testing is a more cost effective way Dr. Curt Van Tassell to analyze a specific gene sequence. Dr. Curt Van Tassell of USDA USDA-ARS – ARS, will discuss how genomics testing is changing and what future benefits genomics might provide to producers. Van Tassell is a research geneticist at the Bovine Functional Genomics Laboratory and Animal Improvement Programs Laboratory. He is instrumental in the development of genomic assays and communicating the use of this tool. “Improving Feed Efficiency in Dairy Heifers” Wednesday, September 29, 1 p.m. Dr. Jud Heinrichs, Professor, Penn State University Sponsored by: APC, Inc. Continuing Education Credits: ARPAS (1), RACE (1) Healthy, well-grown calves are the foundation of the future herd. Limit feeding is an emerging heifer nutrition program that improves efficiency and reduces the amount of manure and ammonia produced. This is accomplished with higher digestibility that increases feed efficiency without compromising growth and often reducing feed costs. Dr. Jud Heinrichs will discuss these diets Dr. Jud Heinrichs and additional factors that can affect feed efficiency. Heinrichs is Penn State Univ. a professor of dairy science and extension specialist at Penn State University. During his tenure, his research and extension work has focused on dairy calf and heifer nutrition and management. Heinrich is the co-developer of the Penn State Particle Separator, which is used globally to determine forage and TMR particle sizes. “Will Precision Dairy Farming Change Dairy Farm Management?” Thursday, September 30, 11 a.m. Dr. Jeffrey Bewley, Assistant Extension Professor, University of Kentucky Sponsored by: Advanced Comfort Technology, Inc. Dr. Jeffrey Bewley Continuing Education Credits: ARPAS (1), RACE (1) Univ. of Kentucky A vast array of equipment and software exists to monitor cow
production, behavior, activity, and health creating a whole new data set for producers to consider. These technologies have the potential to change the way we manage cows, improve animal health, well-being and reproduction, and improve labor efficiency. Dr. Jeffrey Bewley will showcase a variety of new technologies that can be utilized for farm management and outline the benefits, drawbacks and investment requirements of new technologies. Dr. Bewley is an assistant extension professor of dairy systems management at the University of Kentucky. His research focuses on the application and economics of new precision dairy management technologies.
“Managing Feed Costs in 2010” Thursday, September 30, 1:00 p.m. Dr. Mike Hutjens, Professor, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign Sponsored by: BASF Plant Science Continuing Education Credits: ARPAS (1), RACE (1) Feeding the dairy herd is the most costly part of any dairy operation. Forages represent 50 to 65 percent of the feed resources which are controlled and managed by dairy farmers. Building the dairy ration around current on-farm forage inventory will be key in helping to maintain profit margins. Dr. Mike Hutjens will discuss Dr. Mike Hutjens evaluating forage inputs and building rations for optimal perforUniv. of Illinois mance in high producing cows. Nutrient levels and form, such as source of fats and oil, protein quality, and feed particle size will be important in optimizing rumen health as well. Hutjens is a professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign. He was honored in 2008 as the American Dairy Science Association Fellow and the World Dairy Expo Industry Person of the Year.
“Global Dairy Trends and Their Affect on Milk Price Volatility” Friday, October 1, 11 a.m. Torsten Hemme, Chairman of the IFCN Network, IFCN Dairy Research Center at the University of Kiel, Germany Sponsored by: Badgerland Financial Continuing Education Credits: ARPAS (1), RACE (1) Milk prices have experienced extreme volatility recently, causing an imbalance of supply and demand. The International Farm Comparison Network (IFCN) estimates there are 1 billion people operating 145 million dairy farms in the world with an average herd size of only two to three cows. Torsten Hemme will disTorsten Hemme cuss the future of milk production in the United States and Europe. Univ. of Kiel, He will examine producers’ awareness of global trends and their Germany ability to improve cost competitiveness. Hemme is the chairman and director of research of the IFCN, a network of dairy economists from over 80 countries. IFCN compiles and reports milk production costs in their annual IFCN Dairy Report. Hemme has written over 200 papers and presented numerous talks related to global dairying.
“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Reproductive Management Programs” Friday, October 1, 1 p.m. Dr. Paul Fricke, Professor, University of Wisconsin - Madison Sponsored by: Micro Dairy Logic Continuing Education Credits: ARPAS (1), RACE (1) Since the inception of Ovsynch, numerous additional hormonal synchronization protocols have been developed for lactating dairy cows for their first breeding postpartum, detecting nonpregnant cows and resynchronizing for second inseminations and more. Dr. Paul Fricke will discuss the numerous systems with relation to optimal timed insemination and heat detection. AddiDr. Paul Fricke tionally, he will present the latest research for synchronizing dairy Univ. of Wis. heifers. Fricke is a professor with the University of Wisconsin – Madison, recently promoted to a full time professor. His duties include numerous speaking engagements through his extension appointment and continuing his research on heat synchronization.
“Mycotoxins in Dairy Feeds: The Threat to Herd Health” Saturday, October 2, 11 a.m. Dr. Trevor K. Smith, Professor, University of Guelph Sponsored by: Alltech Continuing Education Credits: ARPAS (1), RACE (1) Recent research indicates that current analysis of dairy feeds for mycotoxins may be seriously underestimating the degree of mycotoxin contamination. Dr. Trevor Smith will explain the threat mycotoxins pose to immunity, which can result in lingering herd health problems including, cows that do not respond to medications and failure of vaccination programs. The most effective tools Dr. Trevor Smith currently available to minimize the harmful effects of mycotoxins Univ. of Guelph are mycotoxin adsorbents. Smith has been a professor at the University of Guelph for 33 years. During his tenure, his research in feed and food toxicology has focused on prevention of mycotoxicoses, analysis of mycotoxins in feedstuffs and characterization of the harmful effects of feed-borne toxins. *This program was reviewed and approved by AAVSB RACE program for eight hours of continuing education in jurisdictions which recognize AAVSB RACE approval. Please contact the AAVSB RACE program if you have any comments/concerns regarding this program’s validity or relevance to the veterinary profession. AAVSB RACE provider – World Dairy Expo, # 395
World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 23
Page 24 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
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Volume 12, No. 1
Dairy Day at the Capitol, March 2
Producers encouraged to inform legislators
Taking matters into his own
February 27, 2010
hands
Hendrickson building on his dairy career By Jennifer Burggraff Staff writer
– MENAHGA, Minn. always Joel Hendrickson has own By Jennifer Burggraff had the itch to own his purStaff writer dairy cattle. In fact, he he chased his rst cow when – was still in high school. BeST. PAUL, Minn. his cause he didn’t know howoldDairy producers from across Joel’s opMinnesota will have an to dad would react, Peter Mark, who portunity to meet face on est brother, for his dad and working legislators was their face with Dairy eventually took over the home March 2, 2010, during as his farm, claimed the cow Joel a Day at the Capitol. secretly gave The event is coordinated own and of the milk check. Proby the Minnesota Milk Co- cut “That’s what I’ve done penny ducers Association and since high school; every Joel operative Network. I had went to buy a cow,” PHOTO BY JENNIFER BURGGRAFF “Basically, it was started said. “I would work out a deal facility near Medairy herd on his rented cow my uncles because, as an organization, in front of his 77-cow cient for every cull year ago. we wanted to make ef time had.” Joel Hendrickson stands began dairying on his own nearly one nahga, Minn. Hendrickson use of dairy farmers’ share to going to the Capitol / Page 8 their issues with their legisla- Turn to Hendrickson tors,” MMPA executive direcabout tor, Bob Lefebvre, said “We Dairy Day at the Capitol. that people real get to wanted they are impacted by the laws of (legislators) pass in front the legislators.” A secondary purpose of legimthe event was to educate and of new technology, and environmental creased production, the usesaid. “We also want to help those who sufislators about agriculture provements,” Zimmerman re damage. Some grants went for helping the dairy industry throughout fered losses such as wind or TB outbreak. the state. concerns that producers deal with our recent “The last couple years “At the beginning, there were to larger opreach mostly we’ve been trying to the grants would be awardedhave answered those legislators,” out to urban erations. But I believe we have made. Many By Jerry Nelson difLefebvre said. “It’s beentheir concerns by the awards weoperations, including Staff writer cult; they have a lot on it’s recipients have had smaller grazing operations.” Livestock plates. But we understandhave some that are organic or are those who received second round of Minnesota BIGELOW, Minn. – The Department of Steve Dykstra is among important for them to agriannounced by the Minnesota Grant last year. Investment Grants has been a Minnesota Livestock Investment some understanding of and their ve chilscatAgriculture. Dykstra and his wife, Esther, culture.” be divided between 50 awardees Trent, 4; Stephanie, 2; Nearly a million dollars will winners have operations that involve dren – Carl, 9; Karen, 6; 1,200 acres and milk Nate Arendt, a dairy proGrant and tered all across the state. and Paula, 9 months – farm near Bigelow. The dairy cattle, beef cattle, swine, ducer from Mazeppa, Minn., Steve Dykstra at the wide range of species including head on their farm located has attended Dairy Day over apoultry. 800 Received grant funds 220 border lies just a mile to the south of the Iowa history we have had more than Capitol on and off for Curt Zimmer- last year “During the program’s two-year Dykstra farm. for Investment Grants,” said Department by his grandseven years. livestock producers apply Dykstra’s farm was purchased “It’s a good opportunity man, Livestock Development Supervisor at the Minnesota applied, while 245 “Grandpa for us to see how the legisla- of Agriculture. “Last year 574 livestock producers father in 1969. at the time,” Dykstra said. “Dad was serving in Vietnam he got back, and he said he would. tive process works,” Arendt producers applied this year.” Grants have gone to dairy farmers. farming him if he’d like to farm when said. The majority of these Investment Investment Grants that asked came back to a new home where he and Mom started Arendt operates Arendts In its rst year, two-thirds of the 40 Livestock year’s So Dad while just over half of this parand milking cows.” Holstein Resort with his his were awarded went to dairy operators, dairy operation gradually expandAs the years went by, the Dykstra made an inents, Mark and Kathi, and his 50 grants will be given to dairy producers. to reward those who have “The goal of the program is industry,” said Zimmerman, who noted ed from within.we could see that we needed a bigger milk tank,” Dykswife, Mindi. He attended “By 2008 in our state’s livestock billion into the rst Dairy Day at the Capitol processing pumped $11.6 fel- vestment 10 that livestock production and after being prompted by Page / to Grants efciency, in- Turn state’s economy. low producers. things as improvement in “We want to reward such Turn to Capitol / Page 5
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The U of M dairy will be featured as one of World Dairy Expo’s virtual farm tours on Sept. 30. From left, Dr. Jim Linn, overseer of the dairy facility; Bill Hansen, dairy farm manager; Dr. Noah Litherland, Samantha Simpson, Amy Hazel, Brad Heins, Alanna Kmicikewycz and Jennifer Becker.
By Jennifer Burggraff Staff writer FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. – Since the early 1900s, the University of Minnesota-St. Paul Campus dairy has served as a center of research and teaching to benefit producers across the state. From feeding trials by T.L. Haecker and animal husbandry studies by C.H. Eckles, to more recent cross breeding trials by Dr. Les Hansen and Johnes research by Dr. Sandra Godden, the U of M has served as a forefront of finding answers for the dairy industry.
Photo provided
The U of M dairy herd consists of 124 cows, a mix of Holsteins and crossbreds. The herd is housed in a 90-cow tiestall barn and a 40-cow compost-bedded barn.
Now surrounded by the over 280,000 residents of St. Paul, Minn., the U of M continues to do what it has always done – serve as the largest urban research dairy in the United States. It doesn’t see its urban location as a hindrance but as an opportunity to educate others, both dairy producers and urban consumers alike. For this reason, as well as its reputation as a research, extension and teaching facility, the U of M dairy was chosen as one of eight farms that will be featured in a virtual tour at this year’s World Dairy Expo. “It’s a wonderful honor,” said Dr. Noah Litherland, assistant professor of dairy cattle nutrition, research and extension with the U of M. While Dr. Jim Linn, head of the U of M department of animal science, oversees the dairy facility, Litherland, along with Bill Hansen, the U of M dairy farm manager, will present the virtual tour, which will take place at 2 p.m. on Sept. 30 in Mendota 1 meeting room in the Exhibition Hall. The presentation will last 30 to 40 minutes. The U of M dairy herd consists of 124 cows, a mix of Holsteins and crossbreds. The herd is housed in a 90cow tiestall barn and a 40-cow compost-bedded barn and is milked in a double-six herringbone parlor twice a day. Three full-time employees, as well as several parttime student workers, make up the labor force for the dairy. The cows are fed a TMR, with feed grown in U of M fields and purchased feed. Manure from the facility is composted in a composting barn on campus and sold to the city, Litherland said. Turn to U of M dairy / Page 26
World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 25
Know where to go for your dairy news: www.dairystar.com
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Page 26 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
Continued from U of M dairy / Page 24 A portion of the milk produced by the herd stays on campus for research experiments. It is also used by the food science department in making a variety of cheeses and ice cream in their pilot plant. The herd also serves as a live model for undergraduate and veterinary students. Heifer calves are raised on the St. Paul campus from birth through day 90, when they are sent to the West Central Research and Outreach Center in Morris, Minn. They return to campus as springing heifers. “It’s a busy farm,” Litherland said. “It’s unlike a lot of dairies in that all the cows are fed individually, milk samples are taken weekly, liver biopsies and muscle biopsies are taken ... the cows are poked and prodded.” “We have a small herd but we try to learn as much as possible from them to improve the industry in Minnesota.” During the virtual tour, Litherland will take attendees through the history and day-to-day operations of the dairy. From there, he will detail some of the unique research that has been and is currently being done, from reproduction and transition cow health trials to calf work and feed efficiency. “We try to do research that’s relevant to our own backyard,” Litherland said. Litherland will also highlight how the U has opened its doors to educating not only fellow dairy producers, but urban consumers as well. Large posters and a short video outline management practices and general information; feed samples are available in clear containers, and tour groups – typically led by U of M grad students – are always welcome. “A lot of kids never see live dairy cows, much less a working dairy farm,” Litherland said of the tours. “It’s a neat teaching opportunity for our grad students as well. They get to show their pride and share their knowledge of dairy.”
Photo provided
During the virtual tour, Dr. Noah Litherland will take attendees through day-to-day operations of the dairy.
Photo provided
A portion of U of M dairy herd is housed in a 40-cow compost-bedded barn. The entire herd of 124 cows is milked in a double-six herringbone parlor twice a day. The dairy will be featured in a virtual tour during the World Dairy Expo.
Photo provided
Heifer calves are raised on the St. Paul campus from birth through day 90, when they are sent to West Central Research and Outreach Center in Morris, Minn. They return to the U of M dairy as springing heifers.
Looking to the future, Litherland said he believes there will always be dairy cows on the St. Paul campus, but there has been talk about starting a large commercial dairy. There has also been talk about switching to three-times-a-day milking, getting some registered Holsteins and putting in a methane digester. He currently has a grant for an automatic calf feeder. “I’d like to see continued growth of pride in our dairy industry,” Litherland said. “I sense people want more out of our University system, so let’s provide them with what they need.” The virtual tour will conclude with time for attendees to ask questions about the herd, the facilities and the research done at the U of M.
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Value Implement Baldwin, WI
Steve Gehrke 608-778-3878
Larsen Industries Goodhue, MN
Dairyland Supply Sauk Centre, MN
K&A Implement Strawberry Point, IA
Baker Iron Works Platteville, WI
World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010 • Page 27
y e r ! g r to 0 nd a L en 50 a r h v e In Ov on - ks n ta
USED TANKS IN STOCK - 5000, 4000, 3000, 2500 Export Division
• Dari-Kool • Mueller • Sunset
Besides our domestic division, we also take pride in our Export Division which ships our tanks world wide. Our containers circle the globe with our fine remanufactured dairy tanks and equipment.
Wisconsin Dairy Supply Company
262-473-3530
Cell: 920-397-0448 • Fax: 262-473-4722 Email: widairy@idcnet.com • Web: www.milkcoolers.com WE BUY BULK MILK TANKS • DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME
Page 28 • World Dairy Expo • Dairy Star Special Edition • Saturday, September 11, 2010
New Continuous Ridge Vent from Rollomatic Custom t to your new or existing building Motorized or Manual Options Highest UV inhibitor and lock stitch style sewing for longer curtain life Get the full value of air quality control curtains at the touch of a button
Our Roll-O-Matic Curtains run up and down with ease and don’t op around. When we need to replace our old curtains we will denitely be using Roll-O-Matic! - Tom Johnson, Guttenberg, IA
“What we like most about our Roll-O-Matic Curtains is how they roll up and down with ease within 30 seconds. Dan Steffensmeier They also look great appearance wise and are maintenance free. - Mark Steffensmeier, Bloomington, WI
minutes
Visit us at our World Dairy Expo booths # AR 470 & 471
Nature’s Harmony Organic Dairy, John Reitsma & Sean Mallett, Twin Falls, ID
Features Two 16” Adjustable Ridge-Vent Curtains for Controlled Air Flow 2-4 ft. Eave Openings
“With Roll-O-Matic Curtains it’s nice to have all of our controls in one area to run the whole barn. They are heavily built, have durable curtain material and piping. They also have great customer service.” - Bob Bjorge, Dodgeville, WI
“I like the nice, clean appearance of the curtains. They are simple and easy to use without worrying about a pulley system” - Jay Stauffacher, Darlington, WI
“I have had Roll-O-Matic Curtains since 2004 and they have lasted. They’re simple and maintenance free.” - Rick Reuter, Peosta, IA “We have had Roll-O-Matic Curtains for 2 -1/2 years now and there are no signs of wear and tear. The material is very durable and there is no discoloration. They are easy maintenance and roll up with ease, even in the wind.” - Doug Raisbeck, Lancaster, WI
“We like having electronic controls on our curtains because we can control the amount of ventilation daily. Our stalls also stay a lot dryer. The material of the curtain is very durable and the overall system has a great appearance. They roll neatly and don’t look bunched up like other curtains.” - Derek Orth, Lancaster, WI
“We like Roll-O-Matic Curtains because they are simple, tough and durable. I was impressed when they withstood 50-60 mile an hour winds this last winter (2008).” - Doug & Nancy Hoeer, New Vienna, IA
“We made our decision to purchase Roll-OMatic Curtains because of the good things we had heard from other customers. They are simple and easy to use with no pulleys to worry about. They are strong, durable and they have a great installation crew.” - Jason & Chad Demmer, Dundee, IA
D evelopment R esources of I owa, Inc. 109 Industrial Parkway S #12, Strawberry Point, Iowa 52076
1-866-8-ROLLUP (1-866-876-5587) E-Mail:
dri@rollomaticcurtains.com • www.rollomaticcurtains.com
“What I like best about our curtains is the tight roll. They go up and down with ease and don’t ap in the wind.” - Lee Pattison, Garnavillo, IA