Michigan Milk Messenger: February 2017

Michigan 2015 Milk

T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F M I C H I G A N M I L K P R O D U C E R S A S S O C I AT I O N

VOL. 99 | ISSUE 7 | FEBRUARY 2017

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FEBRUARY 2017 FEATURES

MEMBERS TAKE HOME 14 | MMPA NATIONAL DAIRY QUALITY AWARDS

On the Cover

2017 and the next century bring new challenges and new opportunities to MMPA. Learn

18 | SHAPING THE FUTURE TOGETHER

how MMPA is “Shaping the Future Together” in the 2016 Annual Report, mailed separately to members in February.

Twelve MMPA members were awarded National Dairy Quality Awards, including 50 percent of all gold awards. Take a look at the award-winning members and their quality achievements.

With MMPA’s centennial year drawn to a close, MMPA is honing in on the future through an emphasis on the cooperative spirit and the value of working together.

This article is an excerpt from the 2016 Annual Report.

22 | ONE NAME DOES NOT FIT ALL

From allergies to ethical reasons, plant-based products posing as equally nutritional dairy substitutes have grown in popularity in many instances due to shrewd marketing and the decadent use of the term ‘milk’ on the labels. How are dairy farmers and legislators defending the use of milk?

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 2,000 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

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Elite GTPI gender SELECTed Sires 7HO12165 MONTROSS 7HO11351 SUPERSIRE 7HO11621 MAYFLOWER 7HO11752 BOB 7HO11708 ROOKIE 7HO11383 MORGAN 7HO12105 REFLECTOR New 7HO12198 KINGBOY New

GTPI ® +2771 +2644 +2609 +2593 +2574 +2566 +2556 +2555

Not only are all of these sires in the breed’s top 10 for GTPI, they are part of our industry-leading gender SELECTed lineup.

We offer a large number of sexed sires, that are truly our very best. When creating more heifers for your herd, why not use the best the industry has to offer? Call your local Select Sires representative today to place an order for these elite gender SELECTed sires!

All bulls except BOB qualify for export to Canada. CDCB/HA Genomic Evaluation 12/16. ™gender SELECTed is a trademark of Select Sires Inc. ®GTPI is a registered trademark of Holstein Association USA. gender SELECTed™ semen processed by Sexing Technologies for Select Sires shall be used only for the single insemination of one female bovine during natural ovulation with the intent to produce single offspring unless specifically approved on an individual customer basis by Sexing Technologies in writing. This semen is produced using the proprietary technology of XY LLC and Inguran LLC, as partially represented by U.S. Patents: 6372422, 7094527, 7208265, 7371517, 6357307, 7723116, 7758811and 7799569. Patents pending in US and foreign markets. XY® is a trademark of XY LLC. All gender SELECTed semen is processed using SexedULTRA™ technology. ™SexedULTRA is a trademark of Inguran LLC.

CONTENTS 6

MMPA MATTERS

We invest in scholarship and leadership

Emerging from the Economic Doldrums

8

programs annually to ensure a bright

QUALITY WATCH

future for the dairy industry.”

VFDs and VCPRs: New Changes for 2017

10

NEWS & VIEWS

12

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

16

MMPA AWARDS 10 SCHOLARSHIPS TO MSU AGRICULTURE TECHNOLOGY STUDENTS

— KEN NOBIS, MMPA PRESIDENT (PAGE 16)

DEPARTMENTS 29

MERCHANDISE

30

QUALITY PREMIUMS

20

OYDC SNAPSHOT

2016 Top 10 OYDC Samantha Mamarow

31 POLICIES

MMPA 2016 QUALITY AWARD WINNERS

32 FREELINERS

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

34

24 28

33 CLASSIFIEDS MARKET REPORT

35 STAFF

MMPA CORE VALUES:

»

QUALITY

»

INTEGRITY

Managing Editor................................................ Sheila Burkhardt Editor..................................................................Allison Stuby Miller Advertising Manager......................................Nancy Muszynski Circulation.......................................................................................2,814 An Equal Opportunity Employer – F/M/V/D Michigan Milk Messenger (USPS 345-320) is the official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association, published monthly since June 1919. Subscriptions: MMPA members, 50¢ per year; non-members, $5 per year.

»

PROGRESS

»

41310 Bridge Street P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376-8002

LEADERSHIP

»

COMMUNITY

p: 248-474-6672 f: 248-474-0924 w: mimilk.com

Periodical postage paid at Novi, MI and at additional offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Michigan Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002.

(ISSN 0026-2315)

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

5

MMPA MATTERS

Emerging from the Economic Doldrums

BY KEN NOBIS, PRESIDENT

Here we are deep in the month of February, referred to by some of us as the armpit of the calendar. Fortunately, when we get this deep into the winter doldrums we have sweet thoughts of spring that help us endure a few more weeks of the cold damp weather.

Maybe the same feeling can be applied to the cold reality of the recent dairy economic doldrums.

A year ago, we were revising our expectations downward for 2016, as milk production on the global stage continued to force prices lower than the experts had anticipated just a few months earlier. This year we have revised our expectations upwards as global production, having reacted to the low prices, now lags last year’s output enough to put some wind under our economic wings. There isn’t enough there to make us soar, but hopefully we have enough to sustain hope for better days ahead.

In the five major dairy export regions - Argentina, Australia, EU-28, New Zealand, and the United States - production is off from last year everywhere but the United States.

Production in the U.S. has grown in 2016 but at a moderate rate. Hopefully, the moderate rate doesn’t increase to a rapid rate and send prices back down; current expectations don’t indicate that rapid increases in production lie ahead.

“This year we have revised our expectations upwards as global production, having reacted to the low prices, now lags last year’s output enough to put some wind under our economic wings.”

However, our own area might be different. Members of our co-op have made good use of the advantages available to us. We have productive soils to grow feed, a climate that is conducive to cow comfort, a plentiful water supply, and a “people infrastructure” that is second to none. In addition, we are within an eight-hour drive of 50 percent of the U.S. population.

It looks to me like producers in our area also make use of certain industry advances faster and to greater advantage than some others. These include advances in genetics, nutrition, herd management, and technology. We produce high quality milk, something consumers want when they select dairy products for their families.

The bulk of our co-op’s milk continues to be produced in Michigan, while milk production continues to grow in our entire market area, which includes parts of Wisconsin, Indiana and Ohio. Michigan’s production has grown 80 percent from 2000 to 2015, while cow numbers have grown just 36 percent. In 2016, our market area represented 56 percent of the total increase in milk production for the U.S. That is a lot of milk, and it indicates a very efficient system when production grows twice as fast as cow numbers.

We expect production to continue to grow in our membership and in our market area.

We are working every day, both within our own system and with others, to accommodate production increases. In 2016 we added, with minimal investment, to our processing capacity at both Ovid and Constantine. This was a small part of the $100 million investment made by MMPA to increase processing capacity since 2009. Increasing capacity even more while remaining cost-effective is an ongoing goal. Our staff has added and/or secured new outlets for member milk sales.

We have purchased our own cheese processing facility in Middlebury, Indiana that not only sells to other vendors but also features an on-site retail outlet. We continue our efforts with Dairy Farmers of America and Foremost Farms to build a major cheese processing facility, a project that would help us all. These are just some examples of how MMPA is working to make the future brighter as we fulfill our co-op’s mission to “market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.”

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MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

101ST ANNUAL STATE DELEGATE MEETING WHEN:

March 23, 2017 Registration begins at 9:30 a.m., meeting is called to order at 10:00 a.m.

WHERE:

Lansing Center 333 East Michigan Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48933

» » » » »

ON THE AGENDA: Consideration of policy statements and resolutions Election of two director-at-large positions on the MMPA Board of Directors Recognition of MMPA’s 35 and 50 year members Announcement of MMPA Quality Award recipient Introduction of the MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators

Business will only be conducted by accredited delegates, but all members are welcome to attend.

#MMPA17

03/23

QUALITY WATCH

VFDs and VCPRs: New Changes for 2017

BY ELYSE MARTIN, MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE

The National Dairy FARM Program Version 3.0 officially went into effect on Jan. 1, 2017.

Now when you must re-enroll in the program, which is required every three years, you must comply with the new standards. Priority One areas included in FARM 3.0 include a signed Veterinary Client Patient Relationship with (VCPR). Another new change that arrived on Jan. 1 was the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD).

As many of us know, it is a common practice to utilize antimicrobials on a regular basis on our farms to preserve the welfare of our animals. Producers abilities to use antimicrobial products such as Ceftiofurs (Exceed, Excenel, Naxcel) at their discretion has allowed for superior animal health within herds.

"… producers must work closer than ever with their veterinarians to ensure the continued excellent health and welfare of their animals, along with meeting regulations set forth by the FDA."

One could argue national herd health has never been better, as we are seeing record levels of production and quality in many herds; an achievement that could not be maintained without excellent management from producers. In addition to practicing superb management, today’s producers are also implementing a myriad of sustainability protocols to lessen the impact on the environment. These combined feats of record production, record quality, set in a conscientious way make today’s producer arguably the most responsible of any in history.

Although producers are setting records for production and quality, while implementing a plethora of sustainability practices, a conversation regarding the problem of antimicrobial resistant bacteria has gained traction. Producers must now meet FDA regulations on VFD and RX protocols. The VFD is essentially a prescription that allows the producer to deliver the prescribed antimicrobial drug into the feed, the RX is issued when water based antimicrobials are prescribed.

The FDA has three goals it theorizes will be achieved by the implementation of the VFD: 1. To Protect Public Health 2. Promote Judicious use of antibiotics 3. Help Limit the development of antimicrobial resistance *As reported by Dr. Grooms DVM, PhD

The medically important drugs listed below must be prescribed by the herd veterinarian who the producer has a working VCPR. One of the most critical changes brought about by the VFD will be that no further use of antimicrobials for the use of growth promotion.

The VFD order will be generated by the herd veterinarian and distributed to the feed elevators and producers, and a record needs to be obtained for auditing purposes such as spot checking by FDA and state. The RX prescription is available from your herd Veterinarian when using water based antimicrobials for treatment.

The VFD and RX is undoubtedly another issue for producers to contend with, and ultimately its implementation means that antimicrobial products producers frequently use will be regulated more closely, not as readily available and in some cases not permitted for use in the way previously permitted. This challenge, like so many others, will undoubtedly be met by producers given their tenacity and adaptability.

To summarize, producers must work closer than ever with their veterinarians to ensure the continued excellent health and welfare of their animals, along with meeting regulations set forth by the FDA. The overall impact that the VFD and RX have on producers will likely be minimal, and only strengthen the relationships between veterinarians and producers.

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MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

MILKER Training School MILKER Training School MILKER Training School

MMPA Milker Training School MMPA Milker Training School MMPA Milker Training School

Milker Training Schools aim to help improve the marketability of MMPA members’ milk by providing Milker Training to help improve the marketability of MMPA members’and milktheir by providing milk quality andSchools animal aim stockmanship knowledge, tools and training to members milk quality and animal stockmanship knowledge, tools and training to members and their Milker Training Schools aim to help improve the marketability of MMPA members’ milk by providing employees. employees. milk quality and animal stockmanship knowledge, tools and training to members and their employees.

Strategies to help members achieve this goal include: Strategies to help members achieveand thismilk goalquality include: • Relay proper milking techniques procedures.

•Strategies Relay proper milking techniques and milk quality procedures. help members achieve goaland include: • Present to the big-picture science of this mastitis milk quality.

Present the big-picture science of mastitis and milk quality.

• Relay proper milking techniques and milk quality procedures.

Give members a chance to try-on and practice proper milking techniques and procedures.

•• Give members a chance to try-on and practice proper milking techniques and procedures.

Present big-picture and science of mastitis and milk quality.

Improvethe stockmanship animal care while supporting National Dairy FARM requirements.

• Improve stockmanship and animal care while supporting National Dairy FARM requirements.

Give members a chance to try-on and practice proper milking techniques and procedures.

• Improve stockmanship and animal care while supporting National Dairy FARM requirements.

Partnership » Quality » Animal Care Consistency » Education » Affirmation Partnership » Quality » Animal Care Consistency » Education » Affirmation Partnership » Quality » Animal Care Consistency » Education » Affirmation

February 15 February 9:30 a.m. - 15 2:30 p.m.

9:30 a.m.

2:30 p.m.

February 15 Alvin & Dorothy Hochstetler’s

April 20 April 10:00 20 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

10:00 - 3:00 p.m.

April 20 Aplex a.m.

- Alpena

DeMotts West Park Inn Aplex - Alpena 10:00 a.m.

- 3:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

- 3:00 p.m.

440 W. Sanilac Rd. 701 Woodward Ave. 440 W. Sanilac Rd. 701 Woodward Ave. DeMotts Aplex - Alpena Sandusky,West MI Park Inn Alpena, MI Sandusky, MI Rd. Alpena, MI 440 W. Sanilac 701 Woodward Ave. Sandusky, MI Alpena, MI April 13 April 10:00 13 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

A $10 per person registration fee will 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.ISD A per person fee will April 13 Wextford-Missaukee be$10 deducted fromregistration your milk check to Wextford-Missaukee ISD 10:00 - 3:00 p.m. be deducted from your milk check to Careera.m.

Tech.

Center A $10 per person registration fee will cover lunch and material costs.

Career Center ISD Wextford-Missaukee 9901 E.Tech.

13th St. cover lunch and material costs. be deducted from your milk check to 9901 E.Tech.

13th Career Center Cadillac, MI St. cover lunch and material costs.

Cadillac, MI St. 9901 E. 13th Cadillac, MI Marianne Gasiewski » 248-442-7597 » gasiewski@mimilk.com Marianne Gasiewski 248-442-7597 » gasiewski@mimilk.com P.O. Box 8002, Novi,»MI 48376 P.O. Box 8002, Novi,»MI 48376 Marianne Gasiewski 248-442-7597 » gasiewski@mimilk.com P.O. Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376

Alvin &Perrin Dorothy Hochstetler’s 9:30 - 2:30 p.m.

26671a.m.

Road 26671 Perrin Road Alvin & Dorothy Hochstetler’s Sturgis, MI Sturgis, MI Road 26671 Perrin Sturgis, MI 21 February February 10:00 a.m. 21 - 3:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

February 21 Winter Inn - 3:00 p.m.

Winter Inn - 3:00Rd. 10:00 p.m.

100 N.a.m.

Lafayette 100 N. Lafayette Rd. Winter Inn MI Greenville, Greenville, MI 100 N. Lafayette Rd. Greenville, MI To register, contact: To register, contact: To register, contact:

March 15 March 15 - 3:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

- 3:00 p.m.

March 15West DeMotts Park Inn

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

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NEWS & VIEWS December Pricing Announced The USDA announced the December Class III milk price is $17.40 per hundredweight, up 64 cents from November’s price and $2.96 above December 2015. It is also the highest Class III price since late 2014. For all of 2016, the Class III price averaged $14.87. The December Class IV price was $1.21 higher than November, but 55 cents less than December of last year.

Producers Scoring 95 Percent or Higher on Grade A Surveys Burdock Hills Dairy LLC Martin / Sheri Wenger Lynn / Douglas / Terry Huff Welchkin Acres* Heritage Farms LLC* Lynn Schwartz Vandenberg and Vandenberg Randy Bender Rodney Pillars Clearview Dairy Farm LLC Louis Fifelski Melvin Puschel * Victor Puschel * Charles Wamhoff *100 percent

Upcoming Events February District Meetings

February 2-4 Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference, Frankenmuth March 22 State Resolutions Committee Meeting, Lansing

March 23 101st Annual State Delegate Meeting, Lansing

April 7 Young Cooperator Conference, Frankenmuth 10

MMPA Hires New Director of Operations, Promotes Director of Supply Chain As MMPA continues to grow and expand, the cooperative has hired Ed Jaquay as the director of operations. In this capacity, Ed will be responsible for leading plant management at MMPA’s three dairy processing facilities and overseeing the supply chain.

Jaquay is a proven operations leader with extensive knowledge in many aspects of the food manufacturing industry. His experience at companies such as ProLiant Dairy Ingredients, Great Lakes Cheese Company and Leprino Foods have provided him a wealth of knowledge in the Cheese and Dairy Industry.

Most recently, Jaquay held the position of General Manager – Northeastern Operations with Proliant Dairy Ingredients. Jaquay holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture – Animal Science from Cornell University. He currently is a member of the Cornell food science advisory council.

In addition, MMPA has restructured to create a new supply chain department, led by Therese Tierney who has been promoted to director of supply chain.

She has 26 years of experience in retail management with focus in inventory control. She joined the MMPA milk sales team five years ago, and recently held the position of supply chain manager, with proven capabilities and keen understanding of business operations, she will certainly be an asset in her new position.

Tierney reports to Jaquay and leads the management of comprehensive plant production planning models, oversees manufacturing schedules and develops action plans to resolve issues that affect supply.

MMPA Earns Green Awards from Michigan Agri-Business Association MMPA was among Michigan agribusinesses recognized at the 7th annual Michigan Agri-Business Association (MABA) Green Awards, presented at the association’s annual winter conference in Lansing. Awards were presented to 99 businesses that demonstrated their environmental stewardship and sustainability work through the MABA program. MMPA’s locations in Ovid, Constantine and Novi all received honors.

The MABA Green Agri-Business Program recognizes proactive sustainability efforts in Michigan agriculture. The application includes an evaluation of agronomic practices, water quality and conservation measures, energy efficiency, facilities improvement, transportation, recycling, and the use of advanced site specific agriculture technology. The criteria in the program are specifically designed to help agriculture protect water quality and reduce environmental impact.

“Awards were presented to 99 businesses that demonstrated their environmental stewardship and sustainability work through the MABA program.”

Are you an MMPA member or farm employee between the ages of 21 and 40?

Interested in spending the day sharing ideas with other young cooperators within MMPA while hearing from industry and co-op leaders? Then join us at the 23nd annual Young Cooperator Conference!

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Conference registration is free to MMPA members and MMPA member employees.

RSVP details will be enclosed in the February 17 milk check or you can register online at mimilk.com/events and click on Young Cooperator Conference.

FRANKENMUTH, MI

BAVARIAN INN & CONFERENCE CENTER

Make hotel reservations by March 17, 2017 and mention MMPA to receive a discounted $124 rate.

Keynote Speaker:

Hotel Accommodations:

Dr. David Kohl of AgriVisions, LLC “Positioning Your Dairy for Success in the Economic Reset”

Bavarian Inn & Conference Center One Covered Bridge Lane, Frankenmuth, MI » 844-264-9023

For more information, please contact the MMPA Member Relations Department at 248-474-6672

Save the Date

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A lot is different since we first started, but our dedication to advancing agriculture has never changed.

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FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

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LEGISLATIVE WATCH

Dairy Groups Claim Canada’s Protectionist Trade Policies Could Impact U.S. Economy

U

nited States dairy organizations and the state departments of agriculture across the country outlined how Canada’s existing and soon-to-be-expanded protectionist policies are intentionally designed to block imports from the United States in January. These policies are in direct violation of Canada’s trade commitments under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the World Trade Organization, said IDFA, NMPF, NASDA and USDEC in a letter urging then President-elect Donald Trump and his key cabinet members to take immediate action.

The letter outlined estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that show each $1 billion of U.S. dairy exports generates more than 20,000 jobs for Americans and almost $3 billion of economic output. U.S. dairy suppliers are reporting that they are already losing business because of these programs, demonstrating that Canada’s actions are resulting in lost revenues and jobs for dairy farmers and processors across the United States.

“This negative impact is conservatively estimated at $150 million worth of ultra-filtered milk exports being lost by companies in Wisconsin and New York, which are highly reliant on their

trade with Canada. In fact, the entire U.S. dairy industry is being hurt, as milk prices are being driven down nationally

by Canada’s trade actions,” the groups said. “Having an even wider impact on America’s dairy farmers and processors, additional large volumes of skim milk powder will be forced onto the thinly traded global market resulting in a further depression of prices that will negatively impact the revenues of dairy farmers around the world.”

The letter was signed by the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA).

SOURCE: NMPF

Former USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to Take Helm of U.S. Dairy Export Council The U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) announced former U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will join the organization as president and CEO, effective Feb. 1, 2017. USDEC is a non-profit, independent organization that seeks to enhance the global demand for U.S. dairy products and ingredients.

“Growing the global market for U.S. dairy products is essential to the future of the dairy industry and America’s dairy farmers. I’ve spent my career in public service as a tireless advocate for farmers and American agriculture and can think of no better way to continue this service than by leading the U.S. Dairy Export Council,” said Vilsack. “I look forward to partnering with the dynamic team at USDEC as well as agriculture, food industry and key stakeholders at home and abroad to advance the council’s mission and strengthen trust in American dairy.”

12

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

As president and CEO, Vilsack will provide strategic leadership and oversight of USDEC’s global promotional and research activities, regulatory affairs and trade policy initiatives. This includes working with industry leaders to develop a longterm vision for building sales and consumer trust in U.S. dairy. Together with the USDEC board, he will create strategies to successfully achieve the shared vision. He will serve as the organization’s primary spokesperson and ambassador to a host of global and domestic stakeholders.

USDEC routinely partners with other dairy industry groups such as the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, the International Dairy Foods Association and the National Milk Producers Federation to address the needs of its members, which include producers, processors and cooperatives, ingredient suppliers and export traders. An important component of

Vilsack’s role will be working with and through these organizations to achieve results on behalf of the value chain.

Vilsack will succeed Tom Suber, who served as president of USDEC since its founding in 1995, and retired at the end of 2016. Under Suber’s leadership, global U.S. dairy exports showed significant growth, rising from the equivalent of roughly 5 percent of U.S. milk production to a high of 15.5 percent.

USDEC has more than 100 dairy industry, dairy exporter and affiliated entity members. Its work is supported by staff across the United States and internationally in Mexico, South America, Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

SOURCE: USDEC

YOU HAVE ROBOTS? We have feeding solutions that work.

ADM has the experience and products The Dick family, owners of Dick Haven Farm in McBain, MI, are nationally recognized for producing high-quality milk.

that will help you meet important robot feeding objectives—nutritional integrity, pellet durability and alluring palatability, but don’t just take it from us.

Ask those that really matter—our customers.

“Product consistency and a firm pellet with no feed refusals is important. The ADM pellets flow well in our system and our cows clean it up,” reports Dale Dick.

The Westendorp family, owners of Westvale-Vu Dairy & Mooville

Whether it’s an ADM . . .

• customized pellet specially tailored to your operation • product manufactured with our patented cold pelleting technology that allows higher inclusion rate of liquid palatants • or standard, pelleted, robotic feed, ADM can help your cows provide you with the best returns on your robotic milking investment.

For more information on ADM robotic milking system products, contact Bill Earley at 800-777-7692 or email bill.earley@adm.com

Creamery in Nashville, MI, produce high-quality products from healthy, comfortable, productive cows. “We demand high-quality, palatable pellets that work in our robotic system. With ADM pellets, the quality is right and the price is competitive,” says Carlyle Westendorp.

ADMAnimalNutrition.com • 800-777-7692 FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

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MMPA Members Take Home One Quarter of All National Dairy Quality Awards Twelve MMPA members were awarded National Dairy Quality Awards, including 50 percent of all gold awards.

These MMPA members were among 44 nationally recognized farms in the annual award program. One platinum award, nine gold awards and two silver awards were earned by MMPA members.

“Our member-owners do their best each day to produce the highest quality milk possible,” Joe Diglio, MMPA General Manager said. “These 12 farms that were presented with a National Dairy Quality Award exemplify superior quality milk and their dedication and commitment to excellence. We are proud to see their accomplishments recognized on a national level.”

MMPA offers a portfolio of member services to help members produce the highest quality milk possible, with field representatives working closely with each member to achieve quality goals.

MMPA also offers a quality premium incentive for its members producing higher quality milk. Over the last five years, quality premium payments rose 37 percent.

MMPA’s large representation in the National Dairy Quality Awards underscores the hard work of the cooperative’s farms while competing against other well-preforming farmers across the country.

Platinum Award

“The vast majority of dairy farmers produce high-quality milk. But, as with most endeavors, there’s ‘good’ and then there’s ‘great,’” wrote Corey Geiger, managing editor of Hoard’s Dairyman, in an article announcing the winners.

“It’s those ‘great’ herds that recently were recognized by the National Mastitis Council (NMC) through its National Dairy Quality Awards program.”

Harold and Ruth Ann Dodd, Falmouth, Michigan

The winners were selected from a pool of applicants nationwide.

The winning operations stood out for having produced high-quality milk consistently. Applications were evaluated for measures of quality, systems of monitoring udder health, milking routine, protocols for detection and treatment of clinical and subclinical cases of mastitis and strategies for overall herd health and welfare. MMPA winners were nominated by their member representatives.

Robert and Mark Rau, West Branch, Michigan

Larry, Therese, Brent and Emily Simon, Westphalia, Michigan Gold Awards Don Beattie, Holton, Michigan

Randy and Cindy Dragt, Howard City, Michigan Brad and Debbie Kartes, West Branch, Michigan Ryan Litwiller, Middleton, Michigan William and Kimberly Pirman, Skandia, Michigan

Ken and Duane VanPolen, Marion, Michigan Doug, Jake and Andrew Wirth, Evart, Michigan Silver Awards Michael Bosscher, McBain, Michigan Rod, Lynn, Chris Daniels, Luke and Audrey Bischoff, Whittemore, Michigan

About MMPA’s Platinum Award Winner

PHOTO CREDIT: HOARD'S DAIRYMAN

Simon Dairy runs milk cultures on all recently fresh heifers and cows with linear somatic cell scores greater than 4.0 or 200,000 cells per milliliter.

Follow-up treatment then depends upon those culture results. That is one of the many steps that Simon Dairy takes to ensure milk quality at their Westphalia, Michigan, dairy that is home to 890 Holsteins that average 27,743 M, 941 F, and 811 P. In addition, the Simon family also gives J-5 vaccine to all cows to build immunity against mastitis.

Likewise, fresh sand bedding is added to all freestalls once a week along with hydrated ag lime.

14

THREE GENERATIONS OF THE SIMON FAMILY ARE SHOWN AT LEFT (L TO R): EMILY, HOLDING THEODORE; CHILDREN SCARLET AND KAINE; BRENT, HOLDING ANNABELL; THERESE AND LARRY SIMON, WITH LARRY HOLDING GRANDSON JUDE.

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

2017 District Delegate Meetings

District Date

Time Place

1 Thur., Feb. 23 11:00 a.m.

Gene Davis Banquet Center

3575 Francis St., Jackson, MI

2 Mon., Feb. 27 11:00 a.m.

Blue Gate Restaurant

195 N. Van Buren St., Shipshewana, IN

3 Mon., Feb. 20 11:00 a.m.

Russ' Restaurant

1499 E. River Rd., Muskegon, MI

4 Fri., Feb. 24 11:00 a.m.

Engadine United Methodist Church

W13970 Park Ave., Engadine, MI

5 Tues., Feb. 21 11:00 a.m.

New Hope United Methodist Church

7296 Nine Mile Rd., Remus, MI

6 Wed., Mar. 1 11:00 a.m.

Main Street Café

205 N. Clinton Ave., St. Johns, MI

7 Tue., Feb. 28 10:15 a.m.

Valley Plaza Resort

5221 Bay City Rd., Midland, MI

8 Wed., Feb. 22 11:00 a.m.

Woodland Hills Golf Club

320 N. Gates Rd., Sandusky, MI

MMPA Districts

DISTRICT 1 Adrian Local Hillsdale-Litchfield Local Jackson County Plus Local Saline-Ann Arbor Local Ingham County Local DISTRICT 2 Blossomland Local Constantine Local Kalamazoo Local Barry-Eaton Local Lansing Local DISTRICT 3 Grand Rapids Local West Michigan Local Muskegon Local DISTRICT 4 Hillman Local Chippewa County Local U.P. West Central Local Upstate Local

DISTRICT 5 Alma Local Evart Local DISTRICT 6 Mid-Michigan Local Owosso Local Flint Local Livingston Charter Local DISTRICT 7 Frankenmuth Local Sunrise Local Clare-Mt Pleasant Local Deford/Clifford-Mayville Local DISTRICT 8 Huron Local Mid-Sanilac Local Mid-Thumb Local

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

15

MMPA Awards 10 Scholarships to MSU Agriculture Technology Students As a long-time supporter of Michigan State University (MSU) and dairy education, MMPA annually sponsors scholarships for MMPA members, their children and employees enrolled in the Dairy Management program in the Institute of Agricultural Technology at MSU. For the 2016-2017 academic year, MMPA awarded 10 scholarships, totaling $23,250. The scholarships recipients were honored and introduced to MMPA members at the annual Leaders’ Conference on Nov. 21 in East Lansing.

The scholarship fund aims to assist young students pursuing a career in the dairy industry. Scholarships are awarded based on academics, involvement in the dairy industry and letters of recommendation.

“We invest in scholarship and leadership programs annually to ensure a bright future for the dairy industry,” says Ken Nobis, dairy farmer from St. Johns and MMPA president. “We encourage

young people to explore careers in this industry, and scholarships are a primary mechanism to inspire these students to seek careers in dairy.”

According to the Institute of Agricultural Technology, the program delivers innovative, educational programs that develop career-ready graduates through intensive, practical learning and skill enhancement. Students in the dairy management program, advised by Dr. Joe Domecq, undergo a two-year, hands-on training program for careers in the dairy industry. A key component of the program is the completion of an internship at a dairy farm different than the student’s home farm.

Second-Year Scholarships Shelby Berens is from Holland where her family milks a small herd. She completed her internship at the Kellogg Biological Station grazing robotic dairy and participated in a study abroad program for dairy husbandry in Europe. In the future, she plans to transfer into the bachelor degree program in communications. She hopes to work on bridging the gap from consumers and dairy producers. She is a member of the MSU Dairy Club and Dairy Judging Team.

Rachel Ekkel is from Fremont where she’s involved on her family’s 55-cow dairy operation. In high school, Rachel was involved in 4-H and FFA. At MSU, she is involved in dairy cattle judging and the MSU Dairy Club. She interned at Fernjo Farms, a 2,400-cow farm in Tulare, California. After graduation, Rachel plans to return to the family

MMPA SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS WERE RECOGNIZED AT THE 2016 LEADERS’ CONFERENCE. PICTURED, BACK ROW (L-R): CASEY TEBOS,, SETH HULST, MASON SMITH AND SHELBY BERENS. FRONT ROW (L-R): CAMERON COOK, MORGAN LUOMA, EVELYN OKKEMA, RACHEL EKKEL AND HOPE MCALVEY.

16

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

farm to one day become the farm’s main herdsman.

Evelyn Okkema is from Blanchard where she works on her family’s 500cow dairy operation. In high school, Evelyn was active in various clubs including: National Honors Society, Model UN, Yearbook, Band and the Montcalm Career Center. Currently, she’s a member of the MSU Dairy Club and the State 4-H Dairy Judging Team.

Evelyn interned at Walnutdale Farms in Wayland, Michigan. She plans to transfer to the Agribusiness program before returning to her family farm.

Second-Year Employee Scholarships

Zeke Breuninger is a native of Dexter, where he works on his father’s 400-cow dairy farm. In high school, Zeke was on the wrestling team and was on the State Dairy Judging Team and the National Livestock Judging Team. Now at MSU, Zeke is a member of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity and the MSU Dairy Club.

He interned at the 3,200-cow Van Exel Dairy in Lodi, California. After graduation, he intends to work in the agriculture industry before returning to work on his home dairy farm.

Seth Hulst is from Coopersville, Michigan and works for Paul Courtade’s 60-cow dairy. He is a member of the MSU Dairy Club. Seth completed his internship on Knigge Farms, LLC in Omro, Wisconsin. In 2001, Knigge Farms became the first robotic milking herd to be established in the United States. After graduation, Seth has ambitions to return to the farm and modernize the operation.

Mason Smith, a native of Homer.

Mason works on Smith Farms, a 60-cow dairy. Mason was active in sports and the National Honor Society in high school and is currently a member of the MSU Dairy Club. Mason completed his internship at Pleasant View Dairy in Jonesville, Michigan. After graduation, Mason hopes to obtain a herd manager or herdsman position at a dairy farm.

MMPA First Year Scholarships Cameron Cook is from Pewamo. The Cooks operate a 243-cow dairy. In high school, Cameron was on the National Honor Society, Student Council, track and field team and in the local 4-H club.

Now at MSU, Cameron is a member of the Dairy Club and Dairy Judging Team. She recently competed with the 4-H judging team at World Dairy Expo where she received first place individual overall in the national contest. Cameron is interested in working in genetics, cow nutrition or dairy marketing after graduation.

Morgan Luoma is our next first-year scholarship student. Morgan is from East Leroy and her family’s farm milks 115 cows. In high school, she was a student senate member and played volleyball and tennis. Currently, she is a member of the dairy club and the dairy judging team. Morgan hopes to return to the family farm and stay active in 4-H. Casey Tebos is from Falmouth on a 230-cow family farm. Casey played baseball and soccer in high school and was active in 4-H. Now at MSU, Casey is on the dairy club and active in Campus Crusade for Christ. Casey hopes to return to the home dairy after college.

First Year Employee Scholarship Hope McAlvey is from Carson City, working Alan Pung’s 700-cow farm.

Hope personally owns six cows. In high school, she was active in sports and the Science Olympiad. Currently, she is on the 4-H Dairy Judging team, Dairy Club and Block and Bridle Club. She intends to obtain a career in the dairy industry and is passionate about genetics and 4-H.

Advisory Committee DISTRICT 1 Bruce Lewis, Jonesville.........................517-869-2877 Jeff Horning, Manchester....................734-428-8610 Art Riske, Hanover..................................517-524-6015 Clark Emmons, Fayette, OH.................419-466-4471

DISTRICT 2 Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN.........574-825-2454 Mark Crandall, Battle Creek.................269-660-2229 Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN.......574-825-5198 Don Bever, Delton..................................269-671-5050 Heather Wing, Bellevue........................269-660-0498

DISTRICT 3 Tim Butler, Sand Lake............................269-330-5538 Bill Gruppen, Zeeland...........................616-875-8162 Burke Larsen, Scottville........................231-425-8988 Bill Stakenas, Freesoil............................231-425-6913 Gary Nelsen, Grant.................................231-834-7610

DISTRICT 4 Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................231-588-6084 Jeremy Werth, Herron...........................989-464-4022 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard....................906-630-1957 Russ Tolan, Ossineke..............................989-471-2993 Ron Lucas, Posen....................................989-379-4694

DISTRICT 5 Mike Rasmussen, Edmore...................989-304-0233 Robert Lee, Marion................................231-743-6794 Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................989-506-5287 Bruce Benthem, McBain.......................231-825-8182 Amy Martin, Leroy..................................231-388-0496

DISTRICT 6 David Reed, Owosso..............................989-723-2023 Jamie Meyer, Ionia..................................989-640-3372 Kris Wardin, St. Johns............................989-640-9420 Aaron Gasper, Lowell............................616-897-2747 Steve Thelen, Fowler.............................989-682-9064

DISTRICT 7 John Bennett, Prescott.........................989-345-4264 Mark Iciek, Gladwin...............................989-426-5655 Eric Bergdolt, Vassar..............................989-652-6500 Philip Gross, Weidman..........................989-289-0670 Rodney Fowler, Chesaning.................989-302-2299

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS FOR THE

DISTRICT 8 Darwin Sneller, Sebewaing.................989-977-3718

2017-2018 ACADEMIC YEAR ARE DUE

Bill Blumerich, Berlin.............................810-706-2955

SEPT. 1, 2017. FOR MORE INFORMATION,

Michael Bender, Croswell....................810-404-2140

PLEASE VISIT MIMILK.COM/MEMBERSHIP/

Patrick Bolday, Emmett........................810-395-7139 Michael Noll, Croswell..........................810-404-4071

MEMBER-INVOLVEMENT/SCHOLARSHIPS.

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

17

MICHIGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

Shaping the Future Together Editor’s note: the following is an excerpt from the 2016 MMPA Annual Report, which will be mailed separately to members during the month of February.

Fostering Our Farms Our members are the core of our business. As a cooperative, our members own the Association, collectively participate in its governance and take pride in producing superior quality milk.

We serve our farms, putting their needs first and helping them improve every day. From nationally recognized Milker Training Schools to on-farm equipment evaluation to mastitis management programs, MMPA works closely with members to achieve high quality milk.

2016 ANNUAL REPORT

Shaping the Future Together MICHIGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

With MMPA’s centennial year drawn to a close, we are honing in on the future through an emphasis on the cooperative spirit and the value of working together. In 2016, a storm of challenges impacted the dairy industry, yet MMPA is weathering these winds and shaping the future together.

Our members’ hard work is well earned and rightfully recognized. MMPA members consistently make a mark on the National Dairy Quality Awards.

And the quality continually improves every year. A culture of quality and continuous improvement has led to a rise in awards in the MMPA Quality Award program. From just 12 percent of the membership in 1998, 45 percent of MMPA member farms earned a quality award in 2016.

Our family dairy farmers put animal care above all else. During fiscal year 2016, MMPA reached 100 percent enrollment in the National Dairy FARM Program for animal care.

Our members work hard to do their best on the farm, so MMPA pushes to market their milk to the greatest advantage possible in return.

Cultivating Our Industry Working together isn’t just a necessity at the farmer cooperative level. Industrywide, MMPA is active in the issues shaping our members’ future.

In 2016, topics like trade and genetically modified ingredients crescendoed.

Through MMPA’s involvement in the National Milk Producers Federation and the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, we ensured our members’ voice and needs were heard on these issues.

At the state level, MMPA is involved in the Michigan Alliance for Animal Agriculture (M-AAA) and the Agriculture Leaders of Michigan. Through these coalitions, MMPA supports animal ag research, promotes agriculture and defends the needs of our industry.

From the state level, up to national governance and international trade, MMPA cultivates the needs of our members in the evolving dairy industry.

18

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

Marketing Our Milk It’s well stated: “marketing our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible” is our mission. Yet this mission is not just a statement, it’s a commitment MMPA holds true to everyday. Our members produce a quality product and MMPA ensures members receive the best return possible for their efforts.

2016 was characterized by lower prices in the marketplace and a continued surge in milk production. Together, MMPA faced headwinds and tailwinds throughout the year as the cooperative stayed devoted to our mission.

2017 and the next century bring new challenges and new opportunities

The massive milk flush impacted how MMPA marketed members’ milk, managing a 4 percent growth over last year’s record volumes through strategic initiatives with customers, improvements at our processing plants and by exploring new opportunities. MMPA’s two manufacturing plants in Ovid and Constantine, Michigan, produced record volumes of milk during the fiscal year, equivalent to an additional 1 million pounds of milk per day.

to MMPA, and the

Through the trials of 2016, MMPA has worked tirelessly and reached successes in marketing more milk than ever before in MMPA’s century-long history.

TOGETHER.

cooperative is shaping the future

Shaping Our Future Working through the centennial year, MMPA has reflected on the power of the cooperative’s past. But MMPA is more focused on its vision for the future and what lies ahead. Working together to shape our own future will be the key to the next century.

All the same, MMPA’s strategy for best serving members in the future involves three components: asset maximization, business development and strategic alignment with customers.

Our assets—the MMPA dairy processing plants—reached great successes in 2016 and are vital to the future success of MMPA. MMPA continually explores new business ventures to bring the best return to members. In 2016, two of these development opportunities were made public: the exploration of joint ownership of a Michigan cheese plant with two other coops and the purchase of the Deutsch Käse Haus.

Moving forward, working closely with customers will become more and more important. MMPA is positioned to develop strategic alignments with customers that share our values and our vision.

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

19

OYDC SNAPSHOT

TOP 10

OYDC 2016 Samantha Mamarow Mamarow Farm Saline, Michigan Saline-Ann Arbor Local, District 1

Our farm:

Mamarow Farm is a sole proprietorship owned by my parents. The farm was founded April 21, 1926 and I am the fourth generation.

I learned at a young age to never say that I was bored because I wouldn’t be for long. I enjoy working with the cows and each one’s personality, as well as being outside.

Our herd:

What makes a difference:

We have 90 cows and 220 total head.

We milk twice a day in a flat barn with headlocks, 18 units and 18 stalls.

Genuinely caring and sharing your story with those around you. I volunteer at Washtenaw County’s Rural Education Days, a three-day event for third graders in my county to learn about Michigan Agriculture at various food, demonstration and animal stations. It’s really exciting to see the adults and kids’ reactions to the animals and facts.

Our land:

We farm 300 acres of corn, alfalfa, sorghum and triticale.

Our mission:

To produce high quality milk by giving our animals the best possible care.

The best part of being a dairy farmer:

The best part of being a dairy farmer is that there is always something to do whether you planned to do it or not.

20

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

What’s next:

I want to maintain our herd size while finding ways to implement more technology and management aids to become more time, labor and cost efficient.

Symposium Registration & 2017 Michigan Dairy Health Symposium

Details Can Be Found At: THURS., FEB. 23, 2017 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. www.qualitymilkalliance.com/events www.qualitymilkalliance.com/events

Cows, Milking Speakers Machines & People Interactive Workshops

This is the inaugural Michigan Dairy Health Symposium in what will be an annual meeting for dairy producers, veterinarians and other industry professionals concerted with the health of Panel Discussions dairy cattle. This symposium will highlight the lessons learned from a USDA-funded project to reduce mastitis and antibiotic use, led by Michigan State University.

CEs Available

More details can be found at:

www.qualitymilkalliance.com/events

Speakers THURS, FEB 23, 2017 Interactive Workshops

EVENT LOCATION:

LansingEvent Community College West Location

Panel Discussions Cows, Milking CE Credits Available Machines & REGISTRATION FORM – MICHIGAN DAIRY HEALTH SYMPOSIUM: COWS, MILKING MACHINES & PEOPLE People 5708 Cornerstone Dr., Lansing, MI 48917

(Aprox. 1.5 miles from the Creyts Rd. South Exit 1A off I-496)

Participant Information:

5708 5708 Cornerstone Cornerstone Dr. Dr. Lansing, MI 48917 Lansing, MI 48917 Payment Method:

1.5 (Approximately Personal check payable to Michigan Statefrom University.

1.5 miles miles from (Approximately This is inaugural NAME (PRINT CLEARLY) This is the the inaugural Michigan Michigan Dairy Dairy Health Health Symposium Symposium in in Creyts Rd South Exit 1A the Exit 1A off off the Creyts Rd South card (check one): what will ___________________________________________________________________________ what will be be an an annual annual meeting meeting highlighting highlighting management management Please charge my credit I-496) I-496) ORGANIZATION (IF APPLICABLE)

VISA Mastercard American Express of of major major dairy dairy health health issues. issues. The The symposium symposium is is for for dairy dairy ___________________________________________________________________________

producers, veterinarians and other industry professionals ____________________________________________________ STREET ADDRESS veterinarians and other industry professionals producers,

Credit card # (Or call in at 517-884-7816) concerned with ___________________________________________________________________________ concerned with the the health health of of dairy dairy cattle. cattle. This This first first CITY/STATE/ZIP

____________________________________________________ 8:30 symposium relates relates to to the the lessons lessons learned learned from from the the USDAUSDA8:30 AM AM –– 5 5 PM PM symposium

3-digit CCV Code Exp. Date ___________________________________________________________________________ funded project to reduce mastitis and antibiotic use, led funded project reduce mastitis and antibiotic use, led DAYTIME PHONE (AREA to CODE + NUMBER) ____________________________________________________ by Michigan ___________________________________________________________________________ by Michigan State State University.

University.

Signature ___________________________________________________________________________

EMAIL ADDRESS (PRINT CLEARLY)

Dairy producer or farm personnel ($20) Dairy industry professional ($75) Veterinarian ($75) CE Certificate requested

Return Registration form (one per person) to: Kristine Kounelis Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences 736 Wilson Road – Room D202 VMC East Lansing, MI 48824 FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

21

From allergies to ethical reasons, plant-based products posing as equally nutritional dairy substitutes have grown in popularity in many instances due to shrewd marketing and the decadent use of the term ‘milk’ on the labels.

One Name Does NOT Fit All

By Melissa Hart

From almond milk to rice yogurt, the labeling of plant-based protein substitutes has been a free-for-all in the dairy case and the baking aisle.

Combine this with the falling fluid milk consumption and farmgate milk prices that compare to those of the 1980s and it’s no wonder dairy dispersals are filling sale calendars and multigenerational farms are hanging up the milkers one last time.

Meanwhile, party politics are creating a deeper divide in Washington, D.C. except on one issue: milk labeling.

This is one policy position that has garnered agreement from both Republicans and Democrats in the halls of Congress.

In a letter to Commissioner Califf of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), thirty-two politicians on both sides of the aisle stressed the importance of accurate labeling of plant-based proteins that serve as milk substitutes. They strongly believe that the use of the term “milk” by manufacturers of plant-based products is misleading to consumers, harmful to the dairy industry and a violation of milk’s standard of identity. They requested that the FDA exercise its legal authority to investigate and take appropriate action against the manufacturers of these misbranded products.

Federal standards of identity stipulate that milk and related foods must be made from animal sources to use these established dairy terms. Plant-based products have no real dairy ingredients and therefore spur the misconception that they have the same nutritional value as a real dairy product.

22

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

Beth Briczinski, Vice President, Dairy Foods & Nutrition at National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) weighed in on the debate, “We have never said the products shouldn’t be allowed in the market. But the reason why the government has standards for many foods is so that imitation products cannot pass themselves off as something they are not, particularly when their nutritional content varies widely, and is often inferior to the product they are imitating.”

When comparing protein content of the various plant-based milk substitutes the content varies. In once eight-ounce glass of milk there are eight grams of protein. This far outweighs the same eight-ounce glass of almond milk that provides one gram of protein or coconut milk that contains five grams of protein or rice milk that is a mere 0.7 grams of protein in an eight-ounce glass.

Soy milk comes closest to real dairy protein with 6-10 grams of protein per eight ounces.

Dairy producer and almond grower Steve Maddox of Maddox Dairy in Riverdale, California agrees that labeling a plant-based product as a dairy product is misleading to the public. “Even as an almond grower, I have a big issue with misleading the consumer and it starts with labeling. Almond milk is not a milk replacement because it doesn’t replace the nutrients,” Maddox said. “They are misleading the consumer in two ways, they are not only calling these alternative products milk but they are saying they have as much protein in them as milk and they don’t.”

Maddox also noted that what many consumers don’t realize is that almond milk is made from the almonds that are less than desirable or basically the waste almonds that would have been discarded otherwise.

New regulations are not what the members of Congress are asking for,

DAIRY PRODUCER AND ALMOND GROWER STEVE MADDOX OF MADDOX DAIRY IN RIVERDALE, CA

just enforcement of present regulations.

Briczinski explains, “We’re not asking for new laws or regulations, just the acknowledgement that plant-based foods should not be able to create and use new terms such as almond “milk”, soy “cheese” and rice “yogurt” that are in conflict with existing definitions that clearly define milk as an animal-based substance.”

The enforcement of dairy specific terms and resulting product labeling is actually much stronger in other comparable English-speaking nations.

Briczinski explained, “The same almond ‘milk’ brand is sold in the U.S., Canada and the UK. But only in the U.S. is the term “almond milk” displayed, where in the other two countries it is absent from the label.

This is the type of change we are asking the FDA to enforce for our country.”

According the Briczinski, FDA has said very little and done relatively nothing regarding mislabeling of plant-based dairy substitutes. Although in the past, when Congress had raised an issue, they were more likely to listen. She

“What people may fail to grasp is that the vegetable alternatives are imitations, and not an acceptable substitute from a nutritional standpoint. That’s what has been lost in the debate …"

commented, “The only enforcement action in the recent past is that the FDA did challenge the maker of Muscle Milk back in 2011 to change some of the wording on that product’s label – although the overall name of the product hasn’t changed. That’s why congressional action is helpful, because it’s harder to ignore.”

Regarding the growing market share for plant-based dairy substitutes, Briczinski remarked that these imitators have capitalized on a lax regulatory system to elbow their way into a market, using dairy-friendly terms, imagery and packaging to position themselves as substitutes.

“What people may fail to grasp is that the vegetable alternatives are imitations, and not an acceptable substitute from a nutritional standpoint. That’s what has been lost in the debate: the most popular types of plant beverages pale in comparison to real milk in terms of protein content, and often many other vitamins and minerals,” said Briczinski.

Will the FDA take a stand on this issue? Based on experience, Briczinski concluded, “FDA has stonewalled repeated requests to step up enforcement on this issue. The good news is that it’s much harder for FDA to ignore a congressional request, so we are more optimistic there will be a formal response. Hopefully, one that involves a defense of the existing milk labeling standards.”

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

23

ADRIAN

S & T Farms PTP

Gold

Oberlin Farms LLC

Marvin Farms Inc.**

Jeff & Larry Nielsen

Silver

Wilson Centennial Farm LLC

Vissers Dairy LLC*

Double Eagle Dairy Inc.

Fred Feight and Sons

Gordon H. Behrenwald

Scott D. Norden

Dragt Farms

N. Randy & Eric Bleich

Mervin G. Dailey

Dwight Mansfield

Kenneth Vredenburg

2016 MMPA Quality Awards

Matthew Smith

Kent L. Inniger

Editor’s note: The Quality Awards listing was misprinted in the January

Whelan Farms*

2017 issue. A corrected list of member quality awards follows.

Wilbert, Todd & Kurtis Sieler

ocal meetings this season will include presentations of quality awards to 512 members for the production of outstanding quality milk over the last fiscal year (October 1, 2015 to September 30, 2016). Bronze, silver and gold awards will be presented to those members who met the established criteria for each award.

South Creek Farms

L

Bronze quality awards are presented to MMPA members

who met both quality premium categories (10,000 or less raw bacteria and 20,000 or less PI count) and maintained a somatic cell count of 250,000 or less for nine or more months out of the previous fiscal year.

Bronze

Martinline LLC Gary A. Middleton

Ammon R. Martin Cindy Eldred Ephraim & Esther Martin Glen H. Miller Central Michigan Milk Production

Gary L. Ries

BARRY-EATON

Hartland Farms Inc.

Gold

ALMA Gold Ryan J. Litwiller Ronald & Kevin Litwiller Silver Louis & Ronald Brecht*** William Hough Dairy Inc.

Silver quality awards are presented to those members

Koutz Dairy LLC

who met the same criteria as in the bronze award category for 12 months out of the previous fiscal year.

Bruce Carey Pine Hills Dairy LLC

Chase Crest Hill Farms LLC* Crandall Dairy Farm LLC* Hammond Dairy Farm LLC Silver Endsley Dairy Farms LLC** Ivan L. Mast Pixley Dairy Farm LLC Miller Vue Farm Brent & Nina Butler FFHR LLC

Bollinger Farms LLC

Bronze

Jered Litwiller

Cary Dairy Farms Inc.

TLC Dairy

Halbert Dairy Farm LLC

Gary & Cory Nielsen

Ladine Farms

Robert F. Durham

Steven G. Hochstetler

Star awards will be presented to those members who have

Bruce A. Litwiller

Dan & Lynda Walden

received a quality award for five (one star), 10 (two stars), 15 (three stars) or 20 (four stars) consecutive years.

Vanderploeg Holsteins LLC

Jacob Mast

Vanderploeg Holsteins II LLC

B & K Farms LLC

Douglas B. Kamer

BLOSSOMLAND

Hooks Farms

Gold

Bebow Dairy Inc.

Jerry, Jerry & Terry Koebel

Bronze

Bronze

Albern Olson*

Howard Payne

Gold quality awards are presented to members who

met the same criteria as in the silver award category and averaged a somatic cell count of 100,000 or less during the previous fiscal year.

512 TOTAL QUALITY AWARDS 333

BRONZE

141

38

SILVER

GOLD

Carter Farms LLC* Titus B. Zimmerman* Joel Ensz** Chapin Family Farm LLC*** Tara Chapko Paulen Farms Inc. Friesen Legacy Farm LLC Troy Haynes Judge Dairy Farm Inc.

24

Double-B Dairy

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

CHIPPEWA COUNTY Bronze David & Tammy Bell* Folkersma Farm LLC Taylor Creek Farm LLC

CLARE-MT PLEASANT

Bronze

Karl M. Bontrager

Ronald J. Brinks

Silver

Virgil D. Yoder

Martin Yoder Jr.

Dick Haven Farms LLC

Elton F. Dubois*

Michael M. Graber*

Justin Meyers

James A. Oudman

Clark Dairy Farm LLC

Devon Ray Yoder*

John W. Yoder

Kevin P. Ardis

Le Var Farms LLC

David E. Yoder*

Gerald M. Martin

Kerwin J. Hamming

Gross Dairy Farms Inc.

Joseph & Ida Mae Delagrange

Calvin F. Miller

Rudvan Family Farms LLC

Rick Lee Newman

Ervin D. Mast

Allen Yoder

Buning Dairy Farm LLC

John Koch

Daniel Lee Mishler

Bronze

Samuel Jay Bontrager

Tara Anthon Cattle & Management

David N. Miller

DEFORD/CLIFFORD- MAYVILLE

Uriel Y. Miller

Joseph D. Mishler

Gold

Nathan Webster

Raymond & Miriam Kuhr

Jeremiah & Rachel Ramer

Meadow Muth Farms LLC

Andrew Leon Stanley

Garrett Beef Farm

Jesse & Chelsea Ramer Dewayne E. Mishler

Silver

FLINT

Pohl Dairy Farm Inc.

Silver

Robert S. Millard

Wilbur J. Herschberger

Calvin J. Bodeis

Mark Hilty

Kenith & Jane Wood

Cole Riverview Farms Inc.

Gross Farms Inc. Norm, Philip & Steve

John H. Bontrager

Bronze

Bronze

Martin C. Fox

Jonathan J. Yoder

Laura & Shelly Nesbit

Apple Dairy Corp

Jack Evans

Joseph E. Miller

EVART

Weil Dairy Farm*

House Dairy LLC

Stanley Yoder Family

Gold

Packard Farms LLC

Frye Family Farm LLC

Van Polen Farms****

Eli E. Shrock

Joni Borkholder

Harley & Marietta Lambright

FRANKENMUTH

Raymond Buchholz

Carl Zook

Mark F. Diemer

Silver

Daniel & Emma Coblentz

Alva Lengacher

Michael L. Bosscher

Petzold Dairy Farms LLC

Raymond L. Miller

End Road Farm

Richard R. Wardin

Wakiana Dairy Inc.

Robert, Michael, Matthew & Harold Cnossen

Krafft Farms LLC

CONSTANTINE Gold Matthew D. Miller Larry M. Hershberger* Vernon R. Miller Thaddaeus Coning

David K. Fisher Marvin E. Eash Mybrook Farms Alvin D. Bontrager Milton D. Bontrager

Zuiderveen Farms

Kenneth & Carol Tebos Tacoma Dairy Inc. Doddedale Farms Gilde Farms LLC

Glenn A. Cotherman Schooley Farm LLC

K & K Kern Farms LLC* Corner Oak Farm

Haubenstricker Dairy Farm LLC Bronze Fowler Dairy LLC Dennis W. Hetzner Wardin Brothers Dairy LLC

Silver

Ferman R. Bontrager

Silver

Freeman E. Yutzy*

Larry Niec Farms LLC

Rufus B. Zimmerman

Jonathan Lee Taylor**

Robert Pletcher

Eric J. Frahm

David E. Miller

David L. Dezeeuw

The Graber Family

Dennis E. Miller

Keith A. Deruiter

Joe D. Stutzman

David L. Mast

Wirth Farms LLC

Willie Yoder Jr.

Daniel A. Bontrager

Omer F. Miller

Bronze

Devon J. Miller

Jerry D. Lehman

Daniel Diener

Omer M. Miller

Dorvin Shaum

Zuiderveen Farms*

Lamar J. Eash

Lavern J. Kurtz

Aris Dairy Farm LLC*

Jacob W. Weaver

Marvin M. Shrock

Sunny Side Dairy*

Harley H. Lambright

Glen R. Mast

Gaylord & Gerald Denslow**

Allen Troyer

Mervin A. Bontrager

Star City Farm Inc.

Wayne S. Kaufman

Orva & Naomi Hershberger

Booms Dairy LLC

Maynard J. Mast

Herman F. Mast

Leon Hamming

Ervin L. Eash

Clyde S. Miller

Bode Valley Farm Inc.

Maynard & Laura Lehman

Brent & Joan High

Jernstadt Dairy Farm LLC

David H. Miller

Vernon A. & Vernon V. Hochstetler

Yonkman Dairy

Wilbur P. Miller

Benthem Homestead Farms Inc.

Douglas L. Geissinger

William A. Benson

Ernest & Erma Wengerd

Dale A. Brinks

GRAND RAPIDS Silver T & G Dairy LLC Bronze Swift Dairy Farm Inc. L & E Robinson Farms LLC Byma Dairy LLC Fisk Farms Mark & Cheryl Richmond Marten & Sharlene Brower James Schaendorf Franklin S. Bowman John Byma & Team David Kraft Klamer Farms Inc.

(Continued on next page)

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

25

2016 MMPA Quality Awards (continued) HILLMAN

HURON

JACKSON COUNTY PLUS

MID-MICHIGAN

Silver

Gold

Silver

Gold

Brian Centala

Oak River Dairy LLC

Grand Valley Farms

Leroy O. Zimmerman

Skudlarek Dairy Farm LLC*

Silver

Bronze

Hogan Dairy Farms LLC

Christensen Farms*

Dallas Family Farms

Riske Farms

Silver

Sauer Dairy Farms Inc.

Kundinger Farms Inc.

Bienz Double View Farm

Diller Farms

Bronze

Williams Family Farm LLC

Riverview Dairy LLC*

Joseph & Brandon Kubacki

KALAMAZOO

Ervin Lee Yoder

John C. Richmond & Sons Dairy Farm*

Gold

Bronze

Starward Farm*

Nathan & Jodie Mitchell

David J. Leavine*

Risky Endeavor Dairy* Fred, Corby & Cody Werth*

Gregory & Shelly Messing & Ashley Kennedy****

Matthew & Taylor Noffze Kevin, Karen & Travis Zbytowski Todd Hemmingson

VerHage Dairy Farm Andrew W. Johnson

Wieber Dairy LLC*** Steenblik Dairy Inc. Schneider Dairy LLC H & K Dairy LLC Aron W. Whitaker

Silver

Stony Creek Dairy LLC

Webers Meadow LLC

Jeffry & Patricia Thelen

Joseph P. Zbytowski*

Arnold Schuman

Bronze

Andrew J. Feldpausch

Clinton Briley

Prime Land Farm

Leaky Faucet Dairy

Leroy & Stephanie Schafer

Grams Farms

Paul G. Leipprandt & Son Inc.

Martin & Sheri Wenger

Jon & Tina Thelen

LTD Dairy

Delcath Farms

Bernard Baker

Sanborn & Sons LLC

Robert Hemmingson

Nugent’s Farm Dairy

James C. Jackson

Green Meadow Farms Inc. 1

Lucas Dairy Farms LLC

Zielland Farms

Victor Puschel

Green Meadow Farms Inc. 2

Butterwerth Dairy Farm LLC

William C. Mazure

Vandenberg and Vandenberg

Samuel I. Ramer

Chippewa Dairy LLC

R L S Dairy Inc.

Rodney Pillars

Bronze

Vernon D. Yoder

Daniel Van Erp

Timothy Hood, Charles Hood & Tamara Spicher

Stephen Burkholder

Penney Farms

Anson K. Martin*

Randy Bender

Berlyn Acres II LLC**

Louis Fifelski

Steven C. Roth

Melvin T. Puschel

Stout Dairy

Kevin Dykstra

Fedewa Dairy LLC

LANSING

Adkinson Farm

HILLSDALE-LITCHFIELD

Albert J. Gusa

Silver

INGHAM COUNTY

Donald Lindsey

Silver

Richard & Patricia Hawkins*

Kubiak Family Farms

Drakeland Farms LLC

Chuck & Linda Grettenberger

Easterday Dairy Farm

Bronze

Marilyn & Jeffrey Willson

Marten Family Dairy LLC

Daniel L. Williams

Larry L. Steffey**

Ted & Jonathan Keenan

MSU Dairy - Dept. of Animal Science***

Bronze Poling Dairy Farm Ferry Farms LLC* Gordon, Joy & Justin Porter Dale & Carol Baker Jeremy & Jenelle Brenner Margro Farms Herman’s Holsteins LLC

Silver Wayne & Marvin Hochstetler Danon & Clark Reeder

Dutch Meadows Dairy LLC*

Cook Dairy Farm Robert & Richard Skriba Wadell Dairy Farm LLC Cornerstone II Dairy LLC

David Lyon

Bronze

Ri-Val-Re Farms

Donald Walters II

Fogle Farms Risch Farms

Chris, Kristina, Hans & Patricia Langmaack

Graf Acres LLC

Ritter Farms

Clona Farms LLC

Lyon Farm LLC

Ron Launstein

LIVINGSTON CHARTER

Kenneth & Sandra Wyrick

Casey Moore

Silver

Thelen Dairy Inc.

Rapid Ridge Farms LLC

Larry & Karen Adams

William C. Platte

Bon-Tek Operations LLC

Lew-Max LLC

Bronze

D & M Schrader Dairy LLC

Charles & Janet White

T & H Dairy II

Steven H. Simon Cliff & Kent Thelen Simon Dairy Farm LLC Nobis Dairy Farms Slavik Farms Houska Farms Inc.

P H Farms LLC Allen & Eileen Ramer T & H Dairy II Double A Dairy LLC 26

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

MID-SANILAC

MUSKEGON

SUNRISE

UPSTATE

Silver

Gold

Gold

Gold

Frederick & Candice Inbody

Doug & Shelly Ekkel & Family

Anschuetz Dairy Farm

Rubingh’s Dairyland LLC

Sharrard Farms LLC*

Koppenol Dairy Farms Inc.

Cedar Lane Dairy Farms**

Silver

Radloff Dairy LLC

Stroven Dairy Farm

Circle K Farms Inc.

Douglas K. Warner

Gale, David & Harland Schultz

Dewey Farm LLC

W-R-L Daniels Farm LLC

Richard J. Fettig

Parr Dairy Farm LLC

Silver

Silver

Muxlow Dairy Farm

Bronze

Riverside Dairy LLC

Clemens Dairy Farm Inc.

Cumper Dairy Farms

Boss Dairy Farms Inc.

Albert Lee Tiles*

Bennett Dairy Farm LLC*

Steven & Lisa Alexander

David & Sue Brown

Larsen Farms**

Wenkel Farms

Bronze

Norris Dairy Farm Inc.***

Derek Brewer

D & P Dairy LLC

J-Max LLC

Bronze

David M. Varosi*

Sueann M. Higgins

Brad & Nicole Wren

Shell Farms Inc.

Tri-R Farms LLC

Col-Shee Family Farm

Reba Zimmerman & Sons

Bronze

J & B Dairy LLC

Weaverland Farms

Herman & Rebecca Lambright

Lemajru Dairy Farm LLC

Bradley R. Booms

Donald A. Beattie

Reetz Dairy LLC

Welter Dairy Farms LLC

Sunglow Dairy LLC

Weber Dairy Farms LLC

David Shoemaker

Paul Carol Courtade

Barry Troyer

Fischer Dairy Farm

Beuschel Fruit & Dairy LLC

Timothy Hagley

Edward Joe Lawler

Robert T. Wackernagel

Gallagher Dairy Farm Inc.

MK Farms LLC

Howe Farms Inc.

Twin Dairy

Timothy Mater

Stakenas Farms Inc.

Double B Dairy

David & James Heberling

Powers Dairy Farm LLC

Noll Dairy Farm Inc.

U.P. WEST CENTRAL

David J. Marsh

Roger Markey

Ackerberg Farms

Rick L. Sutton

Carson Acres LLC

Goma Dairy Farms LLC

Glen, Casey & Andrew Sparks

Silver James & Connie Seefeldt Wieciech Farms

WEST MICHIGAN Gold Dennis Raterink Sun Quest Hoof Trimming LLC Silver Seth Ponstein* Welchkin Acres** Arlyn J. Walt Heritage Farms LLC Timothy Baker Nienhuis Dairy Farm LLC Daybreak Dairy LLC Woodbridge Dairy Farm LLC Bronze William & Robert Gruppen Pyle Dairy Farm Inc.* Mark & Elizabeth Ponstein* Melview Farms LLC

Bronze

OWOSSO

Norman Terhaar

MID-THUMB

Milton A. Patz

Silver

James H. Iciek

Silver

Drayton Family Dairy LLC

Ritter Farms LLC****

Robert & Donna Pepper

Oman Family Dairy Farm

Mark Hilaski

Bronze

Pirman Corner Farm Inc.

John & Philip Kuyers

Jason W. Szakal

Dave Cappaert

David Sovis

Pleasant View Dairy Farm LLC

Braid Farms Inc.

Brad Pellegrini

SALINE-ANN ARBOR

Robert Paidl

Paramount Enterprises Dairy LLC

Gleason Dairy Farm Reid Dairy Farm LLC Alfred, Doris & Duane Stuever* Bronze Andrew A. Brown Richard Noake Lester & Barbara Knust Steven & David Spencer Thomas Neil Wagner Blumerich Farms William & Virginia Ankley Tracy & Theresa Sohn

Silver Horning Farms LLC Breuninger Farms LLC*** Bronze Lambarth Farms LLC** Brian D Sweetland Huehl Acres

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

27

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

2017 Producer Grants Available to Promote Michigan’s Dairy Industry Many of you are already connecting with consumers and sharing your dairy story. We want to help you continue providing dairy information and products to those in your area through the 2017 Dairy Promotion Grants.

From January 1 through December 1, 2017, The United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) Dairy Promotion Grant Program is available to provide funding for Michigan dairy producers, dairy farm employees or dairy cooperative employees to conduct promotional events in support of the dairy industry.

The promotional activity must take place during the 2017 calendar year. The funding cycle is open year-round for the UDIM Dairy Promotion Grant Program, but funds are awarded on a first come, first served basis.

Individuals may apply for multiple grants; however, no more than $1,500 can be received in a grant year by a single farm entity (which includes family members and dairy farm employees). A maximum of $1,500

annually can be awarded for the purchase of dairy products, with up to $500 of that amount to fund event support items (includes items such as signage, banners, coolers, and ice).

Promotional events must focus on at least one of the following criteria: • Enhancing awareness of the nutritional and health benefits that come from including dairy products as part of a balanced diet • Increasing knowledge about and awareness of the dairy industry; and/or • Advancing the image of the dairy industry and fostering public trust.

Grant funds may not be used for prizes or gifts. Grant money cannot be used to purchase items for resale or to be used at profit-generating or political events.

To review information on the grant submission process, eligibility and the reimbursement process, visit milkmeansmore.org/dairy-producers/ grant-program/grant-application.

CHILDREN MADE BUTTER AND HOMEMADE ICE CREAM, AND RECEIVED STRING CHEESE AND DAIRY INFORMATION AT THE SALINE COUNTY FAIR.

28

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

DAIRY PRODUCTS PROVIDE A REFRESHING TREAT DURING THE RURAL URBAN DAY IN GRATIOT COUNTY.

Resources All Michigan dairy farm families are eligible to apply for the grant, to help spread dairy information to your community. We encourage you to look through the promotional items UDIM has available to pass out at your event, including activity books and crayons, nutrition information handouts, pens, pencils, posters, banners, etc. New this year, Milk Means More table cloths are available to purchase from the UDIM office with your grant. These can be used at events where you display dairy products or information. We have a dairy item for every event!

Past Grant Activities Your peers across the state have used the grants to share dairy’s story in their community by: • Hosting a local school for a farm tour • Cooking competitions that include lots of dairy products • Sharing dairy treats during an outdoor community movie night • Organizing a milk donation program for a local food bank • Providing dairy products after local races, or physical fitness challenge • Hosting a dairy industry information booth at a community event • Passing out dairy products during a community parade or event Each grant is unique to the farm applying for the funding and the community in which the event takes place. Borrow ideas from your dairy peers and turn them into an event for YOUR community.

For questions regarding the UDIM Dairy Promotion Grant Program, please call United Dairy Industry of Michigan at 1-800-241-6455.

MERCHANDISE

Chemical, Sanitizer and Teat Dip Contact Information These are service personnel only.

Order your Member Merchandise

#5091

supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB

Hat Sale As was announced in December’s Messenger, the MMPA logo has changed. As a result, the warehouse has a stock of hats with the old logo. To make room for the new hats, we will be selling these hats at a substantially reduced price. The affected hats will be sold at this price until stock is completely depleted. Listed below are the sale hats and the new prices.

24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026

DESCRIPTION

MEMBER PRICE

For Service, call the

5091

Winter hat with ear flaps

$10.97

Ecolab Service Message Center

5092

Black hat with blue strip

$9.04

5093

Navy

$7.70

5095

Green Camo

$8.71

or one of the following

5096

Navy/Khaki

$7.65

5100

½ mesh hat

$7.75

service representatives:

5105

Orange Camo

$10.11

STOCK #

1-800-392-3392

Ben Johnson

Artec to Serve as Alternative for Wintercare Many of the products manufactured by A&L have been discontinued as a result of the acquisition by Ecolab. One of these products is Wintercare. Wintercare is a dip primarily used during the cold months to help prevent teat chapping. We have now completely sold out of all sizes of Wintercare at the warehouse. An alternative to Wintercare is Artec. It also has a strong emollient package and will aid in the prevention of teat damage due to freezing temperatures. It is available in 5 gallon, 15 gallon and 55 gallon containers.

4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636 Pat Mitchell 7273 N. Rollin Hwy.

DESCRIPTION

MEMBER PRICE

Addison, MI 49220

6064

Artec 5 gallon

$95.00

6981

Artec 15 gallon

$246.38

517-403-0928

6077

Artec 55 gallon

$827.89

STOCK #

Jason Wolfe 1890 Canter Dr.

Three Ways to Order your MMPA Merchandise 1. Place order through your milk hauler

Riner, VA 24149 540-553-5755

2. Call in your order:

Duane Farmer, Supervisor......................................................989-317-8370

Toll Free..................................................................................... 877-367-6455

Orders (Novi)..................................................... 800-572-5824 then dial 2

3. Fax in your order:

29

MMPA Merchandise fax........................................................... 989-317-8372

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2016

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

29

PREMIUMS MERCHANDISE

MMPA Quality Premium Program

MMPA Member Testing Fees

Somatic Cell Count premiums and deductions (in addition to Federal Order SCC Adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels:

Payment for testing will be made through an automatic milk check deduction. All costs are listed per individual sample.

50,000 or below............ +55¢/cwt.

201,000-225,000........... +20¢/cwt.

51,000-75,000................+50¢/cwt.

226,000-250,000............+15¢/cwt.

76,000-100,000.............+45¢/cwt.

251,000-300,000...........+00¢/cwt.

101,000-125,000.............+40¢/cwt.

301,000-400,000..........- 30¢/cwt.

126,000-150,000........... +35¢/cwt.

401,000-500,000........ -$1.00/cwt.

151,000-175,000.............+30¢/cwt.

501,000-600,000.........-$1.50/cwt.

176,000-200,000.......... +25¢/cwt.

601,000 and greater.. -$2.00/cwt.

Cow Tests: $1 Cow samples may be tested for: Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae, Strep non ag, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative staph, gram negative and/or SCC. Additional testing can be coordinated through your MMPA member representative to include:

A payment of 5¢/cwt. will be added for each of the following, if the count is equal to or below: • 10,000 Raw Bacteria Count • 20,000 Pre-Incubated (PI) Count

Raw bacteria count and components.

There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for: • Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count A high raw count deduction will be waived if the producer has received the quality premium the previous three months for raw bacteria count.

All costs are listed per individual sample.

To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month: • Positive drug residue • Abnormal freeze points • High load count shipment or rejected load shipment • #3 or #4 sediment • Raw Bacteria count over 100,000 The count levels for raw and PI will be determined on one test run per month.

To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month To qualify for MMPA volume premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month • An average somatic cell count of 350,000 or less

All herd tests must be scheduled with the laboratory through your MMPA member representative.

Additional Tests Available: • Mycoplasma Cultures...........................................................................$13 • Bacteriology Cultures...........................................................................$15 – Includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility.

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea - PCR.........................................................................................................$40 - ELISA........................................................................................................$6 • Johne’s Milk Test - PCR.........................................................................................................$40 - ELISA – cows.........................................................................................$6 - ELISA – tank......................................................................................... $10 • Bovine Leukosis Test - ELISA – cows.........................................................................................$6 - ELISA – tank......................................................................................... $10 • Milk Pregnancy ELISA.................................................................... $4.50 Lab test results by mail: $2/month All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA member representative or the laboratory for proper sample submission protocol.

NORTHSTAR MI LABORATORIES Loc/Hlr/Producer #____________________________________ Sample Date__________________________ Member name_______________________________________________________________________________ Sample ID__________________________________________________________________________________ BLV ELISA__________

Johne’s ELISA_________

Johne’s PCR_________

Pregnancy_________

Refer to above for current pricing. The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer.

This card MUST be filled out completely when sending in samples to be tested by NorthStar Labs to avoid potential service charges.

30

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

POLICIES MERCHANDISE

MMPA Policy on Drug Residue in Milk MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED

MILK SHIPPED — POSITIVE DRUGS CONFIRMED

If a member suspects milk in the farm bulk tank contains drug residue:

If a member ships milk from the farm and testing by approved laboratory methods show that the milk contained drug residue, the member will be assessed the penalties imposed by the state regulatory agency and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums.

1. Call a MMPA member representative to have the milk in the tank tested. A “hold” must be placed on the tank contents until the test results are known.

OR 2. The member can test the milk on the farm. If dumped, the member must be sure to take the stick reading, record the number of pounds of milk and report the information to their member representative.

• If the tank tests negative (no drugs present), the milk may be released and shipped.

• If the tank tests positive (drugs present), the member representative will authorize the member to dump the tank of milk. The member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* • If for any reason MMPA personnel must pick up samples at the farm for testing three or more times within 12 consecutive

months, the member involved will be charged $25 per trip.

If a loss is incurred by MMPA due to the disposal and/or non-marketability of a load of milk or milk products containing drug residue, then the member responsible will be provided an invoice for the entire value of the loss plus transportation and disposal costs as required by the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance.

This invoice may be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier.

MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made.

Milk from that member’s farm tank must be tested and found clear of drugs before the next tank of milk can be picked up.

A hauler whose entire load sample shows the presence of drugs will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all show negative.

ALL POSITIVE DRUG RESIDUE SHIPMENTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE ENFORCEMENT AGENCY.

MMPA Milk Quality Policy QUALITY QUESTIONABLE

REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT

When a member suspects that the milk in the farm bulk tank is of poor quality they should call a MMPA member representative who will authorize milk in the tank to be dumped. If the member dumps the milk on their own, they must be sure to take the stick reading and record the number of pounds of milk, and report the information to the member representative.

If…

If the milk is dumped, the member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.*

3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members that caused the contamination or rejection of the load, then, the member or members responsible will be charged the full value of the loss to MMPA plus transportation and disposal costs, and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums except for loads rejected for temperature.

In order to receive payment for an added water voluntary dump, the member must install a Swingline Safety Switch. The Swingline Safety Switch can be ordered from the Mt. Pleasant warehouse. The MMPA member representative will verify the switch has been installed.

Reimbursement for the Swingline Safety Switch and the voluntary dump will then be made to the member.

The member assumes all liability for losses incurred as a result of shipping poor quality or contaminated milk.

MILK SHIPPED – HIGH BACTERIA COUNT If… 1. a load of milk is received (unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. a sample from the load has a bacteria count of 300,000 or more and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members having a bacteria count of 300,000 or more, then the member or members involved will be charged the value of one-half of one day’s production** and will be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums. * The member will only be paid for two (2) voluntary dumps in a rolling 12 month period. ** For members using more than one bulk tank, the assessment will be based on the value of milk in the tank or tanks in violation of the MMPA quality policy.

1. a load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. the milk cannot be sold through normal Grade A channels for reasons of quality which results in the load being sold or disposed of at a loss to MMPA, and,

4. MMPA will provide an invoice to the member for the amount of the loss, to be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made.

If a member has three or more occurrences within 12 consecutive months, that member must appear before the MMPA board of directors to review steps taken on the farm to correct the quality problem which will enable MMPA to continue to market the milk for this member.

HAULER A hauler whose entire load sample exceeds 300,000 cells per mL bacteria count will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all are less than 100,000. A hauler will be responsible for all costs incurred by MMPA for loads rejected for temperature.

Charges and assessments made under this program will be withheld from milk checks of members or haulers involved.

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

31

FREELINERS

To place a freeliner, fax your ad to 248-426-3412 or email your ad to: Muszynski@mimilk.com

Freeliner Policy The Freeliners column is open to current MMPA members who wish to advertise— at no charge—goods or services relating directly to their dairy farm operations.

• An item submitted will be published for no more than two consecutive months (one month, unless otherwise requested). After that, it will be withdrawn.

• It will be published again for no more than two consecutive months only if the member resubmits the item by writing or calling the Novi office.

• Reference to a name of a firm or other commercial enterprise with which a member is involved will be deleted, with permission of the member.

• If the member does not wish such deletion, he/she may choose to have the item published as a Classified Ad at the regular per-line Classified Ad rate.

• Freeliners must be received by the 10th of the month preceding the desired month of publication.

« Freeliners and Classifieds can now be submitted online. » Visit www.mimilk.com/michigan-milk-messenger/advertise/ freeliner-and-classified-ads

Bulls

Cows & Heifers

Registered Holstein Bulls:

30 Holstein milk cows. Averaging 110

We now have a nice selection of

SCC and 92 lbs. of milk. Will sell in

service age bulls, sired by top

groups as well, first come first pick.

AI sires. Green Meadow Farms,

734-776-0285.

Elsie, MI. 989-862-4291 or visit www.greenmeadowfarms.com.

Service age Holstein bulls.

Call Steve Alexander, 810-6228548 evenings or 810-404-8548.

Registered Holstein breeding bulls, all AI sired from top bulls, b&w, red, red carrier and some polled, high production, low SCC herd. Bulls are priced to sell. Ver

Dairy Equipment Beta Snap Block Heater Tester. Use to test for antibiotics in cows before you ship their milk. Asking $75, will throw in 17 Beta test packs and Tetra test packs. We still have the Mueller 2,000 gal. Mueller bulk tank for sale, $10,000. Call 231-625-2036.

Hage Holsteins, 269-673-4886 or 269-217-6076, ask for Tim. www.verhageholsteins.com.

Equipment Kinze 3000 No-Till Corn Planter, six row w/Interplant. 810-724-8825.

Misc.

Haylage, Corn Silage, wrapped 1st cut, round bales and some dry cow.

Delivery available. 231-250-8592.

Small Farm Looking for Experienced Milker. Starting pay $10 per hr. Located in Holton, MI. Farm strives for excellent milk quality. Call Jennifer 231-218-4134.

Wanted Portable vacuum pump and Delaval or Surge bucket milker with claw and pulsator for family cow. 260-705-8185.

32

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

CLASSIFIED ADS

Cost for classifieds is $20 per ad, up to six lines. All ads must be received by the 10th of the month before the month of desired publication. Send check or money order for $20 for up to 6 lines with your order. MMPA neither sponsors nor endorses products or services advertised in the Messenger. You may submit your ads by: MAIL:

Classified Ads | Michigan Milk Messenger P.O. BOX 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002

WANTED TO BUY: USED BULK MILK TANKS, 200 gallons & larger, Sunset & Mueller, 1-800-558-0112.

ALPHALFA HAYLAGE (excellent & fair grades) & CORN SILAGE. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

DRY HAY & STRAW (large & small bales) & BARLEY FOR FEED. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

CALF JACKETS. Keep your calves warm this winter. Very durable, water repellent, Cordura outer shell, with double faced quilted Thinsulate lining.

FARMERS: INCREASE YIELDS 7 PROFIT by using the 1# crop production system. Distributors needed. 260-768-8137 ext. 1

No Velcro. $25 each. 517-543-2415.

FAX: 248-426-3412

MICHIGAN CERTIFIED OAT SEED & SPRING BARLEY SEED. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can fix your scabbled floors. Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking of concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving Inc., Portland. 517-647-7381.

CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-STATE SCABBLING, home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices. (800) 554-2288. www.tristatescabbling.com A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/ texturing provides high quality traction in new & old concrete, fast service. Call for your below pricing 989-635-1494. BLUE RIBBON HOOF TRIMMING, LLC. FOR SALE: 5000-4000-3000-25002000-1500 OH MUELLER LATE MODEL BULK TANK MILK TANKS, complete, will trade. 1-800-558-0112.

or 989-277-1414.

NEW KATOLIGHT PTO GENERATOR, 60 KW, keep everyone warm and producing if there is a power outage. Call Brent at 248-770-5122.

EMAIL: Muszynski@mimilk.com

DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: NO water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better traction.

We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. Three operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. since 1987.

Call 1-800-365-3361.

JUNE CLOVER SEED. 989-723-1886

1,250 GAL DELAVAL BULK TANK with electric agitator motor and motovario gear box, $1,500. Jason Yoder, Mio, Mich. 989-826-1687.

PTO and Automatic Start Generators 1-800-248-8070 M-40 South Hamilton, MI 49419 www.hamiltondist.com

Concrete Grooving and Texturing Call: Jeff Brisky - Owner Toll Free: 1-800-294-1202 Cell: 1-716-353-1137

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS OVER 100 SERVICE AGE BULLS FOR YOUR SELECTION! A special herd sire or a truck load of breeder bulls.

Ready to go to work on your farm!

• Sired by the top sires from the U.S. and Canada • From our top production cows

GREEN MEADOW FARMS 6400 Hollister Road, Elsie, MI 48831 Phone: 989-862-4291

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

33

MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary

| FOR MILK MARKETED IN DECEMBER 2016

Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

This Month

Year Ago

% Change

Total Class 1 Sales

569,601,250

547,506,002

+4.04

Total Class 2 Sales

279,544,099

167,306,623

+67.08

Total Class 3 Sales

366,996,648

581,715,398

-36.91

Total Class 4 Sales

323,966,257

278,456,138

+16.34

1,540,108,254

1,574,984,161

-2.21

(million pounds)

2016 2015 Change

Production

California

3,380

3,364

+0.5

Wisconsin

2,520

2,477

+1.7

New York

1,246

1,203

+3.6

Idaho

1,197

1,165

+2.7

Texas

953

853

+11.7

Mideast Federal Order #33

Pennsylvania

919

904

+1.7

Total Producers..............................................................................................................5,150

Michigan

910

876

+3.9

Avg. Daily Production per farm............................................................................ 10,595

Minnesota

816

807

+1.1

New Mexico

1,246

1,203

+3.6

Washington

547

548

-0.2

Avg. SCC - MMPA.....................................................................................................165,000

Ohio

459

458

+0.2

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33

Indiana

350

348

+0.6

* Total U.S.

16,779 16,381

+2.4

* U.S Y-T-D

199,433 195,507

+2.0

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

37.0%

34.8%

Avg. Protein Test......................................................................................................... 3.22% Avg. Butterfat Test...................................................................................................... 3.91% Avg. Oth Solids Test................................................................................................... 5.76%

Protein Price /lb...........................................................................................................$2.692 Butterfat Price /lb.......................................................................................................$2.335 Other Solids Price /lb................................................................................................$0.206 Class III Price @ 3.5%..................................................................................................$17.40 Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt........................................................................... ($0.81) Uniform Price @ 3.5%.................................................................................................$16.59 SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000...................................................................................$0.001

AMS Survey Prices Product

Monthly Avg

Cheese /lb....................................................................................................................... 1.799 Butter /lb......................................................................................................................... 2.100 Nonfat Dry Milk /lb...................................................................................................... 0.958 Dry Whey /lb................................................................................................................... 0.399

34

National Trends*

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2017

* For 23 States

MMPA STAFF MERCHANDISE

MMPA Field Staff Northwest Area

Novi Headquarters

Supervisor Ben Chapin, Blanchard......................................989-289-0731

Main Office Local line...................................................... 248-474-6672 Toll free......................................................... 800-572-5824

Animal Care Coordinator Deb Gingrich, Leroy...........................................248-520-3580

General Manager Joe Diglio................................................................ ext. 202

Frank Brazeau, Oconto, WI................................906-250-0337 Lyndsay Earl, Ludington.....................................231-519-2455 Sarah Michalek, Portland...................................248-305-0537 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard.................................. 248-756-2062

Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys......................................................... ext. 240

Northeast Area Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Christy Dinsmoore, Fairgrove.............................248-513-7920 Animal Care Coordinator Lindsay Green, East Lansing...............................989-488-8159 Ben Butcher, Durand.........................................248-514-5273 Ashley Herriman, Alpena...................................269-245-6632 Bridget Moore, Snover......................................231-414-4539

Southwest Area Supervisor & Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers....................................269-967-7351 Dave Brady, Grass Lake..... 517-522-5965 or (c) 517-937-9061 Elyse Martin, Charlotte......................................810-701-6460 Krista Schrock, Orland, IN..................................269-986-6792 Emily Smith, Bronson.........................................269-535-0822 Brittni Tucker, Elsie.............................................248-880-3785

Southeast Area Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Steve Lehman, Ithaca....... 989-875-3441 or (c) 989-330-1638 Andrea Meade, Livonia......................................248-880-4113 Joe Packard, Manchester...................................248-520-3481

Board of Directors

Member and Government Relations Sheila Burkhardt..................................................... ext. 208

Officers

Quality Amandeep Dhillon.................................................. ext. 305

Mark Halbert, Vice President

Manufactured Product Sales Jim Dodson............................................................. ext. 229

Joe Diglio, GM / Secretary

Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula........................................................... ext. 219

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

Operations Ed Jaquay............................................................... ext. 248 Member Services Dean Letter................................................... 989-289-9251 Milk Sales/Dispatch Carl Rasch............................................................... ext. 244 Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt.................................................... ext. 210 Management Information Systems Andrew Caldwell.....................................................ext. 304 Communications Allison Stuby Miller................................................. ext. 296 Suppy Chain Therese Tierney....................................................... ext. 217

Ken Nobis, President

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

Josep Barenys, Asst. Treasurer

Directors-At-Large Ken Nobis, St. Johns 989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 202 Rodney Daniels, Whittemore 989-756-4935 Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453 Mark Halbert, Battle Creek 269-964-0511 James Reid, Jeddo 810-327-6830 District Directors 1. Hank Choate Cement City 517-529-9032

Other Member Services

Member Relations Jessica Welch.......................................................... ext. 303

Bulk Tank Calibration John Lehman, Elsie............................................248-444-6775

Human Resources Bill Zoli.................................................................... ext. 301

2. Tim Hood Paw Paw 269-657-5771

Manufacturing Plants

3. David Pyle Zeeland 616-772-1512

Sustainability Coordinator Kendra Kissane, Grand Rapids...........................248-880-4234

MMPA Labs Novi (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)

In Michigan....................................................800-572-5824 Toll Free 800-233-2405 Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.)..................... 989-834-2515 Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.).........800-391-7560

Constantine, Michigan Dave Davis, Plant Manager............................ 269-435-2835 Ovid, Michigan Colt Johnson, Plant Manager........................ 989-834-2221 Deutsch Käse Haus, Middlebury, Indiana Elsie Raber, Plant Manager............................ 574-825-9511

Merchandise - Mt. Pleasant Supervisor: Duane Farmer Main Line......................................................... 989-317-8370 Toll Free............................................................ 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi)..................................800-572-5824, then dial 2 Fax................................................................... 989-317-8372 Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor Katie Pierson.....................................................989-289-9686

If you are unable to reach your assigned member

4. Corby Werth Alpena 989-464-5436 5. Doug Chapin Remus 231-972-2106 6. Tony Jandernoa Fowler 989-593-2224 7. Eric Frahm Frankenmuth 989-652-3552

representative, please contact the representatives listed in your area. Your assigned member representative is listed on your quality statements or can be found by visiting mimilk.com/contact/ field-staff and searching by your producer number.

8. Scott Lamb Jeddo 810-327-6135

FEBRUARY 2017 | MESSENGER

35