Michigan Milk Messenger: February 2018

Michigan 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. 100 | ISSUE 8 | FEBRUARY 2018

FOCUS ON COOPERATION

ANNUAL REPORT SUMMARY

Page 22

MILKER TRAINING SCHOOLS Page 17

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FEBRUARY 2018 FEATURES

On the Cover

15 | NATIONAL QUALITY AWARD WINNERS

Dairy Quality Awards, making up over a third of the total winners. Take a look at the award-winning members and their quality achievements.

Soft snow covers the Great Lakes Region while icy tree branches glimmer in the sunrise.

Seventeen MMPA members were awarded National

16 | HOW DO YOU MILK A COW?

Meanwhile, the work on a dairy

Get a comprehensive look at MMPA's exclusive training for its members pertaining to milk quality. Going into its 21st year, this program has been a key asset to many

farm never stops and MMPA

producers on achieving their goals.

members persevere through the bitter cold winter of 2018.

PHOTO BY: BRENT BEEKER, CONSTANTINE, MICHIGAN

ON COOPERATION – A LOOK 22 | FOCUS INSIDE THE 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

Through cooperation, MMPA strives to enhance our milk marketing, support our members and ignite our community outreach efforts. Read more in this excerpt from the 2017 Annual Report.

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 1,700 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

FEBRUARY 2018 | MESSENGER

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CONTENTS 6

MMPA MATTERS

"We feel it is vital to invest every

Shedding Light on the Dairy Economy

8

year to ensure a bright future for

QUALITY WATCH Meeting Animal Care Standards with

the dairy industry."

Newborn Calves

— KEN NOBIS (PAGE 26)

10

NEWS & VIEWS

12

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

DEPARTMENTS

14

DISTRICT MEETINGS

29

MERCHANDISE

21

TOP 10 OYDC SNAPSHOT: MICHAEL AND LAURA FINKBEINER

30

QUALITY PREMIUMS

26

MMPA AWARDS NINE SCHOLARSHIPS TO MSU AND PURDUE STUDENTS

28

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

Let us help you share your dairy story in 2018

31 POLICIES 32 FREELINERS 33 CLASSIFIEDS 34

MARKET REPORT

35 STAFF

MMPA Core Values: » Quality » Integrity » Progress » Leadership » Community Managing Editor................................................ Sheila Burkhardt Editors.............................. Allison Stuby Miller, Krista Schrock Advertising Manager......................................Nancy Muszynski Circulation......................................................................................2,707 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.

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

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 2018 | MESSENGER

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MMPA MATTERS

Shedding Light on the Dairy Economy

BY KEN NOBIS, MMPA PRESIDENT

Here we are in February, the month sometimes referred to as the armpit of the calendar.

The armpit this year is especially pungent, as we have experienced a dry summer, wet fall, and early cold winter on top of a three-year drought in milk prices. As we look ahead to the sweet smell of spring, MMPA’s winter meeting season is wrapping up, so I thought I would reminisce about what we experienced.

This was the second year of our updated meeting season format. We presented three sets of Member Information meetings, and that provided 22 opportunities throughout 2017 for our members to participate in in-depth discussions of developments in the dairy industry and the operation of MMPA. In addition, each Local Annual meeting then offered the opportunity for discussions with the district directors plus the opportunity to carry out the business of the co-op, such as election of delegates and local officers.

The majority of the Local Annual meetings were held in January 2018.

“Our goal has always been to shed as much light on the dairy economy as possible. Based on the feedback from members who attended the Member Information meetings, I think we accomplished our goal.”

Our goal has always been to shed as much light on the dairy economy as possible. Based on the feedback from members who attended the Member Information meetings, I think we accomplished our goal. The current meeting format allows time for more thorough discussion so that members can better understand the current economic challenges that face our industry. It’s not that any of us like the economic information, but those who attended felt they gained a better understanding of why we are where we are today.

I did not talk to anybody during or after the Member Information meetings who was completely happy with the current situation. However, the range of emotions was somewhat surprising. They ranged from very negative viewpoints about the future of dairy to those who were not happy but were accepting of the current situation. One of the comments shared by the owners of a small farm was that they weren’t happy with the current situation, but they were at least making it. Neither of the owners held a job outside of the farm. Another viewpoint shared by a young medium-sized producer was that, even though prices were not projected to be very good during 2018, he felt that he was looking ahead to a raise as a result of having made his last payment on a loan during December 2017.

Maybe the most telling comment was made by a producer who was in business in the 1980s when many people thought dairy was dead, that there would never again be a bright day for dairy farmers. He noted that he not only survived that time but had some very good years. His observation has always been reflective of dairy, because our industry is cyclical in nature.

February will soon be behind us, and we will look ahead to warm days and sunshine.

MMPA board and management staff continue to work diligently to make sure we are in the best position possible as we look for ways to add more value to our members’ milk. I always look forward to talking with members, and I hope that our conversations during the coming months will be about positive developments in our industry.

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MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

102 ANNUAL STATE DELEGATE MEETING ND

WHEN:

March 15, 2018 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, MI 48933

ON THE AGENDA: • Consideration of policy statements and resolutions • Election of one director-at-large position on the MMPA Board of Directors • Recognition of MMPA’s 30 and 50 year members • Presentation of Valued Partner award • 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.

Members not serving as delegates should RSVP to Nancy Muszynski at 248-474-8872, ext. 202.

www.mimilk.com/events/annualmeeting18

#MMPA18

QUALITY WATCH

Meeting Animal Care Standards with Newborn Calves

BY BRITTNI TUCKER, MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE

To continually strive to provide proper animal care while creating a safe work environment, many dairy farms perform disbudding. Part of any farm’s calf care program should involve proper procedures for disbudding that comply with the National Dairy FARM Animal Care program. Disbudding, the practice of removing buds from a young calf before horn tissue matures, is important to minimize injuries to other animals and caretakers as the animal grows and enters the herd. According to the American Veterinarian Medical Association, disbudding should be done at the earliest age practicable. To achieve the best results and reduce animal discomfort, disbudding must be done prior to eight weeks of age.

To ensure the safety and well-being of both the calf and operator, there are three

“To ensure the safety and wellbeing of both the calf and operator, there are three recommended practices through the FARM Animal Care program: using a butane or electric burner, applying a caustic paste or using genetic selection for polled animals.”

recommended practices through the FARM Animal Care program: using a butane or electric burner, applying a caustic paste or using genetic selection for polled animals.

Burning is the most labor-intensive method. When using this method, a local anesthetic and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be used for the well-being of the animal. A well-trained individual should make sure the burning device is hot and clean to create a solid ring around the horn bud. This will ensure the horn producing cells have been completely destroyed. Improper procedure may result in a ‘scur’ or partial horn growth.

Caustic paste application is an alternative method that can be done quickly and at a very young age. To reduce displacement of the paste from calf movements, it is best to apply within three days of birth. The caustic paste must be used cautiously, however, because it can damage other tissue if improperly administered. Other precautions that need to be taken are using gloves while applying and isolating the calf for a few hours to allow the paste time to dry so it doesn’t get rubbed onto another animal.

Lastly, polled genetics may be an option for farms. Dairy bulls who carry the polled gene have been more readily available through artificial insemination companies. This method is ideal with the benefits of not having a horn to remove, however with genetics, there is not a guarantee of a polled calf being born. This trait is still being developed to expand the options for herd breeding programs.

While each method contains its own challenges, each dairy farm with the guidance from their veterinarian needs to make the decision on which method works best for their operation. Training and written standard operating procedures for the chosen method are vital to making sure the disbudding is done with minimal stress and discomfort to the calf. The safety of the person charged with the task must also be included in the written procedure. Following FARM program guidelines will lessen the impact on the calf while providing a safe working environment for farmers and employees.

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MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

MMPA & Land O’Lakes present...

CALF CARE SCHOOLS MMPA/Land O’Lakes Calf Care Schools demonstrate to members and their employees the proper means to care and treat calves to help them grow in to happy, healthy heifers and cows. In addition to general calf care guidelines, the program will include: colostrum management and quality information, mixing and weighing demonstrations, live calf demonstrations, educational necropsy and calf care SOP writing information.

Registration: 9:00 a.m.

Program: 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

To register for Calf Care School, please contact: Marianne Gasiewski, MMPA Member Services P.O. Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376 248-474-6672, ext. 215 gasiewski@mimilk.com A $10 per person registration fee will be deducted from your milk check to cover lunch and material costs.

April 17 Gerald & Rose King’s 7600 S 600 W Topeka, IN April 18 Shiawassee County Fairgrounds 2900 E Hibbard Rd. Corunna, MI April 19 Hillman Community Center 24220 Vetrans Memorial Hwy. Hillman, MI

NEWS & VIEWS Producers Scoring 95 percent or higher on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Ratings

Gather your Best Shots for the Inaugural MMPA Photo Contest

Writh Farms LLC

Across the stunning landscapes of the Great Lakes region, members have the unique opportunity to capture beautiful scenes like the morning fog rolling across corn fields, a newborn calf’s big eyes taking in new wonders of the world or memorable moments of farmers caring for their cows. To showcase members’ photos, MMPA is offering a photo contest in 2018.

Many Blessings Dairy Inc Samuel Yonkman * Gilde Farms LLC Matthew/Kimberly DeRuiter Dale Brinks *100

December Pricing Down The USDA announced the December Class III milk price is $15.44 per hundredweight, down $1.44 from November and $1.96 less than December 2016. For the entire year, the Class III price averaged $16.17 in 2017. The December Class IV price is 48 cents less than November at $13.51, and $1.46 lower than December 2016.

Upcoming Events FEBRUARY District Meetings FEBRUARY 8-10 Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference, Mt. Pleasant MARCH 14 Resolutions Committee Meeting, Lansing MARCH 15 102nd Annual State Delegate Meeting, Lansing APRIL 6 Young Cooperator Conference 10

Contest applicants are encouraged to submit photos that are reflective of what encompasses our cooperative and capture a wide variety of the dairy farm lifestyle.

Three winners will be selected, with the top prize winning a gift certificate to the MMPA merchandise program and space on the cover of the Michigan Milk Messenger. Photos can be submitted throughout the year, but must be entered by August 1 to be considered in the competition. For more information, visit mimilk. com or contact Krista Schrock at kschrock@mimilk.com.

Deadline approaching to complete USDA 2017 Census of Agriculture Farmers and ranchers across the nation received the 2017 Census of Agriculture and have until February 5 to complete the census. Producers can mail in their completed census form, or respond online via the improved web questionnaire.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service has extensively revised the online questionnaire to make it more convenient for producers.

Revisions and additions to the 2017 Census of Agriculture aim to capture a more detailed account of the industry. Producers will see a new question about military veteran status, expanded questions about food marketing practices, and questions about on-farm decision-making to better capture the roles and contributions of beginning farmers, women farmers, and others involved in running the business.

Response to the census of agriculture is required by law under Title 7 USC 2204(g) Public Law 105-113. The same law requires NASS to keep all information confidential, to use the data only for statistical purposes, and only in aggregate form to prevent disclosing the identity of any producer. The time required to complete the questionnaire is estimated at 50 minutes.

Conducted once every five years, the census of agriculture is a complete count of all U.S. farms, ranches, and those who operate them; it is the only source of uniform, comprehensive, and impartial agriculture data for every state and county in the country. Farmers and ranchers, trade associations, government, extension educators, researchers, and many others rely on census of agriculture data when making decisions that shape American agriculture – from creating and funding farm programs to boosting services for communities and the industry. The census of agriculture is a producer's voice, future, and opportunity.

For more information or to complete the census online, visit agcensus.usda.gov.

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

FRIDAY, APRIL 6, 2018

Interested in spending the day sharing ideas with other young cooperators

McCAMLY

within MMPA while hearing from industry and co-op leaders? Then join us at the 24th annual Young Cooperator Conference!

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

RSVP details will be enclosed in the February 16 milk check or you can register online at www.mimilk.com/events (click on Young Cooperator Conference.)

PLAZA HOTEL BATTLE CREEK, MI

Hotel Reservations Make hotel reservations by March 20, 2018 and mention MMPA to receive the discounted $114 rate.

McCamly Plaza Hotel 50 Capital Ave. SW, Battle Creek, MI 49017 Phone: 1-888-622-2659

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

2018 Save the Date MMPA Advisory Committee DISTRICT 1

DISTRICT 4

DISTRICT 7

Brad Hart, Clayton..................................517-445-2649

Dave Folkersma, Rudyard....................906-630-1957

Scott Kleinhardt, Clare..........................989-386-8037

Josh Lott, Mason.....................................517-740-9981

Russ Tolan, Ossineke..............................989-471-2993

Philip Gross, Weidman..........................989-289-0670

Art Riske, Hanover..................................517-524-6015

Ron Lucas, Posen....................................989-379-4694

Jason Elenbaum, Mayville...................989-274-1974

Bruce Lewis, Jonesville ........................517-869-2877

Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................231-588-6084

John Bennett, Prescott.........................989-345-4264

Jeff Horning, Manchester....................734-428-8610

Jeremy Werth, Alpena...........................989-464-4022

James Weber, Vassar..............................989-297-1850

DISTRICT 2

DISTRICT 5

DISTRICT 8

Danny Ransler, Gobles..........................269-628-4218

Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................989-506-5287

Mike Noll, Croswell.................................810-404-4071

Dan Ritter, Potterville............................517-645-7318

Bruce Benthem, McBain.......................231-825-8182

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

Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN.......574-825-5198

Amy Martin, Leroy..................................231-388-0496

Nick Leipprandt, Pigeon......................517-897-4155

Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN.........574-825-2454

Mike Rasmussen, Edmore...................989-304-0233

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

Mark Crandall, Battle Creek.................269-660-2229

Robert Lee, Marion................................231-743-6794

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

DISTRICT 3

DISTRICT 6

Bill Stakenas, Free Soil...........................231-425-6913

Aaron Gasper, Lowell............................616-897-2747

Burke Larsen, Scottville........................231-425-8988

Steve Thelen, Fowler.............................989-682-9064

Gary Nelsen, Grant.................................231-834-7610

Brad Ritter, Byron....................................586-405-4749

Tim Butler, Sand Lake............................269-330-5538

David Reed, Owosso..............................989-723-2023

Bill Gruppen, Zeeland...........................616-875-8162

Jamie Meyer, Ionia..................................989-640-3372

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LEGISLATIVE WATCH

U.S.D.A. PUBLISHES

Agriculture and Rural Prosperity Task Force Report U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue, presented the findings of the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity at the 2018 American Farm Bureau Annual Convention in Nashville, Tennessee in January.

The task force was established in April 2017 with an executive order “to ensure the informed exercise of regulatory authority that impacts agriculture and rural communities.”

As Secretary of Agriculture, Perdue served as the task force’s chairman and identified over 100 recommendations to help improve life in rural America.

The recommendations centered around

these five areas: E-Connectivity, Quality of Life, Rural Workforce, Technology, and Economic Development.

“WHILE THE TASK FORCE WORKED TIRELESSLY TO IDENTIFY SOLUTIONS TO THE PROBLEMS PLAGUING OUR RURAL COMMUNITIES, THERE IS MORE WORK AHEAD,” STATED SECRETARY PERDUE.

The Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity identified over 100 actions for the federal government to consider in order to achieve a vision of a better rural America. These actions

Michigan 2015 Milk

include legislative, regulatory, and policy changes and were built around these key indicators: E-Connectivity, Quality of Life, Rural Workforce, Technology, and Economic Development Read the Rural Prosperity Task Force Report in its entirety on the newly unveiled Rural Prosperity website (www.usda.gov/ruralprosperity), which includes a link for farmers, ranchers, foresters, and producers to submit comments and ideas on regulatory reform.

SOURCE: USDA

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. 101 | ISSUE 1 | JANUARY 2018

NAFTA: “MEND IT, NOT END IT”

View full issues of the Michigan Milk Messenger in a digital magazine or read select features as a web article on your computer, tablet or mobile phone.

COLLABORATION TAKES CENTER STAGE AT MMPA LEADERS’ CONFERENCE

mimilk.com

www.mimilk.com/news/messenger 12

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

H t a c I

®

R E T BET ITY L A U Q CU T Y R E V E

Chris Britton DuPont Pioneer Account Manager

Stephen Hawk Grower

Pioneer® brand alfalfa varieties with HarvXtra® technology deliver higher-quality hay and forage, no matter when you cut.

Pioneer.com/HarvXtra HarvXtra® is a registered trademark of Forage Genetics International, LLC. HarvXtra® alfalfa with Roundup Ready® technology is enabled with technology from The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Inc. Roundup Ready® is a registered trademark used under license from Monsanto Company. Do not export Pioneer ® brand alfalfa seed or crops containing Genuity® Roundup Ready® technology, including hay or hay products, to China pending import approval. In addition, due to the unique cropping practices, do not plant this product in Imperial County, California. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Alfalfa with the Genuity® Roundup Ready ® technology provides crop safety for over-the-top applications of labeled glyphosate herbicides when applied according to label directions. Glyphosate agricultural herbicides will kill crops that are not tolerant to glyphosate. ACCIDENTAL APPLICATION OF INCOMPATIBLE HERBICIDES TO THIS VARIETY COULD RESULT IN TOTAL CROP LOSS. Pioneer ® brand products are provided subject to the terms and conditions of purchase which are part of the labeling and purchase documents. ® TM SM , , Trademarks and service marks of DuPont, Pioneer or their respective owners. © 2018 PHII. DUPPFO17044_VA_020518_MMM

FEBRUARY 2018 | MESSENGER

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2017-2018

DISTRICT MEETINGS

DISTRICT

DATE

TIME

1 Thurs., Feb. 15 11:00 a.m.

2 Mon., Feb. 19 11:00 a.m.

3 Mon., Feb. 19 11:00 a.m.

4 Fri., Feb. 23 11:00 a.m.

5 Tues., Feb. 13 11:00 a.m.

6 Mon., Feb. 5 11:00 a.m.

7 Tues., Feb. 13 10:15 a.m.

8 Wed., Feb. 14 11:00 a.m.

What are MMPA districts?

LOCATION

Gene Davis Banquet Center 3575 Francis Street, Jackson Blue Gate Restaurant 195 N. Van Buren St., Shipshewana, IN Russ’ Restaurant 1499 E. River Road, Muskegon Audie’s Restaurant 314 Nicolet Street, Mackinaw City New Hope United Methodist Church 7296 Nine Mile Road, Remus Agro-Liquid Fertilizers 1130 S. DeWitt Road, St. Johns Valley Plaza Resort 5221 Bay City Road, Midland Woodland Hills Gulf Club 320 N. Gates Road, Sandusky

The territories in which the Locals of the association are located are divided into districts. After the last redistricting approved by MMPA delegates in 2014, there are eight MMPA districts. In accordance with MMPA bylaws, the district delegates elected by the locals shall meet once per year at least 15 days prior to the Annual State Delegate Meeting. At the district level, local delegates elect district officers, members of

WhY do theY meet?

the advisory and resolutions committee and a district director to represent the district on the MMPA board of directors.

During district meetings, delegates also review the resolutions provided by the resolutions committee and propose new and/ or amended resolutions for the committee’s review.

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MMPA Members Take Home One Third of All National Dairy Quality Awards

S

eventeen MMPA members were awarded National Dairy Quality Awards, making up over a third of the total winners. These MMPA members were among 46 nationally recognized farms in the annual award program. One platinum award, seven gold awards and nine silver awards were earned by MMPA members.

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. In 2017, MMPA paid out $17.7 million to members in quality premiums.

PLATINUM AWARD

SILVER AWARDS

Larry and Paulette Werth, Jeremy Werth and Paul Werth, Alpena, Michigan

Karl Bontrager, Wolcottville, Indiana

GOLD AWARDS

Norm and Mark Buning, Falmouth, Michigan

Don Beattie, Holton, Michigan Brad, Mark and Larry Crandall, Battle Creek, Michigan Gordon Dick, McBain, Michigan Brad and Debbie Kartes, West Branch, Michigan

Michael Bosscher, McBain, Michigan Harley and Marietta Lambright, LeRoy, Michigan William Pirman, Skandia, Michigan Jerry and Sharron Powers, Pentwater, Michigan

Brent Simon, Westphalia, Michigan

Mark and Bob Rau, West Branch, Michigan

Ken, Duane, Anna and Laurie VanPolen, Marion, Michigan

Allen and Aaron Slater, Holton, Michigan Ken and Carol Tebos, Falmouth, Michigan

Douglas Warner, Charlevoix, Michigan

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

“Congratulations to our member farms being recognized through the National Dairy Quality Awards program. Attaining consistent milk quality at this level results from proactively doing the ‘right’ things for animal health and comfort day in and day out,” says Dean Letter, Director of Member Services. “High milk quality and animal care results from a proactive commitment to do the right thing every time, every day.”

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.

(R TO L): JENN BUCHNER, JEREMY WERTH, PAUL WERTH, LARRY AND PAULETTE WERTH, EVAN BEYER (BEHIND LARRY PAULETTE), AUSTIN MALANEY, JOSH JONES, CJ MALANEY AND ETHAN BUCHINGER. PHOTO CREDIT: COREY GEIGER, HOARD'S DAIRYMAN

About MMPA’s Platinum Award Winner Milking system setup, cows that need extra attention, milking routines, and employee schedules would be among the first items seen on the walls when walking into the office and milking center at Butterwerth Dairy, Alpena, Michigan. It’s this attention to detail and excellent communication that also helped get the dairy back on its feet when its herd was depopulated in 2015 after bovine tuberculosis crossed from northern Michigan’s deer herd into its dairy herd. As a result, the farm renovated freestalls and switched from Jerseys to Holsteins to quickly return to milking cows.

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MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

HOW DO YOU MILK A COW?

The low down on MMPA’s milker training school

BY KRISTA SCHROCK

Pre-dip.

Massage dip into skin for ten seconds.

Move to the next cow in the set of four.

Hurry back to the beginning to wipe the dip off and attach the milking unit within ninety seconds of starting.

Wait until cows are done milking and remove the unit.

Don’t forget to post dip their teats.

Repeat.

F

ollowing this routine stepby-step takes place every day on many MMPA member farms, as over 5,400 Milker Training School alum put into practice an MMPA recommended milking procedure. Milker Training School, a day-long training program that teaches participants how to milk a cow, demonstrates this procedure with practice on fake, but realistic udders in an infamous PVC pipe parlor.

The milker training school staff, including mastitis management specialist, Christy Dinsmoore, strive to reinforce proper procedures and prevent procedural drift from lowering quality on member farms.

“We focus on practical learning and hands on approaches to help make the information stick,” Dinsmoore said. “Our intent is trying to place the best tools in the milker’s hands to implement and improve.”

The one-day training starts with a classroom style presentation in the morning followed by hands-on learning in the afternoon. The schools have evolved over the years, but the mission has stayed the same. The schools provide training to members

and their employees to help improve the marketability of their milk. The trainings are designed for all skill levels, with topics including learning the basics of milking cows, getting a more in-depth look at mastitis—an infection in the udder—and a refresher for more experienced milkers.

“It is important for our employees to attend a milker training school because it is easy to get in the habit of cutting corners in the parlor over time,” Katelyn Packard, MMPA member in Manchester, Michigan, described about maintaining consistency in milking procedure.

“The schools also offer good information on what mastitis is and why prevention is so important.”

Milker training school can trace its roots back to 1997, when now retired member representatives, Tom Herremans and Gil Johnson, were challenged by the board of directors to offer a new service to members with a class on how to properly milk cows.

Their goals were to teach farmers tools to lower SCC, understand the concepts behind mastitis management and achieve their milk quality goals.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

“We focus on practical learning and hands on approaches to help make the information stick,” Dinsmoore said. “Our intent is trying to place the best tools in the milker’s hands to implement and improve.”

FEBRUARY 2018 | MESSENGER

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In addition to the knowledge gained and the practice in the PVC parlor, students go home with a copy of the presentation and a better understanding of what mastitis management services are available through MMPA. Basic standard operating procedures for tasks like using a California Mastitis Test (CMT) and sending a cow milk sample into the lab for SCC and culture results are available to attendees as well.

CHRISTY DINSMOORE LEADS MANY OF THE MILKER TRAINING SCHOOL SESSIONS.

FIVE REASONS TO ATTEND MILKER TRAINING SCHOOLS 1. Achieve lower SCC levels to meet market demands 2. Help acclimate new employees to proper milking protocol 3. Become an expert on the concepts of mastitis management 4. Improve profitability with healthy, more productive cows and reduce mastitis infections 5. Meet FARM program requirements for annual training

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MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

“With high employee turnover, there is always a need for retraining on farms. I loved seeing the willingness to learn and dispelling the misconceptions people had about milking cows,” recalled Herremans.

Some members find the training beneficial to managing employees.

“Our farm appreciates the depth of information given throughout the day and touching on other topics such as animal care and what tools are available through the co-op merchandise program,” Packard added.

“It is very helpful, especially for our new employees, to hear what mastitis is and tips on how to prevent and detect it from someone other than their boss. They are able to ask questions as they think of them in the small group setting without the intimidation that may come from large classrooms,” explained producer Jeremy Beebe of Whittmore, Michigan.

"Having a refresher for our long time milkers is vital to reminding everyone the importance of our procedure to make quality milk. Practicing in the PVC parlor with the ceramic udders is a great teaching tool for people who will be tweaking their routine before milking real cows,” Beebe continued.

Many of the handouts and protocols accessible through the training schools are translated into Spanish for convenience. These can be obtained through a farm’s member representative or by attending a school. Also, Spanish translated classes are available upon request.

While having the same objectives, on-farm schools have a different format. The presentation is shorter and more focused toward the farm’s needs. They are geared for larger farms with employees in charge of milking. Milkers practice the routine in the parlor during milking time instead on the practice udders used at the formal schools.

“With this type of training, we can focus more on the individual farm’s milking routine so everyone receives the same message,” said Lyndsay Earl, a member representative and milker training school team member.

“The dedication to the follow up and enforcement of farm’s milking routine from the farm manager is key to a successful training process and consistent experience for the cows.”

Farms can meet their quality goals with the knowledge and tools provided at milker training school.

Using the MMPA recommended procedure helps make sure the cows have the same experience at every milking. “Timing and consistency can make or break a milking routine,” asserts Dinsmoore.

February 14 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Gerald & Rose King 7600 S 600 W, Topeka, IN

February 28 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Clarksville Research Station 9302 Portland Rd, Clarksville, MI

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

Strategies to help members achieve this goal include: • Relay proper milking techniques and milk quality procedures.

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

• 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.

Milker Training School classes can be taught in Spanish upon request.

Milker Training School Values Partnership, Quality, Animal Care Consistency, Education and Affirmation

To Marianne Gasiewski at 248-442-7597 or or To register, register,contact: contact: Marianne Gasiewski at 248-442-7597 gasiewski@mimilk.com.

A $10 per person registration fee will be gasiewski@mimilk.com. A $10 per person registration fee will be deducted from your milk check to cover lunch and material costs. deducted from your milk check to cover lunch and material costs.

March 13 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Eddie G’s 8484 W. Marlette Rd., Marlette, MI

March 28 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

The Shack 2263 W. 14th St., White Cloud, MI

April 12 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Clare Church of the Nazarene 10160 S Grant Ave., Clare, MI

April 24 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Whittemore Fire House 503 S. Bullock St., Whittemore, MI

FEBRUARY 2018 | MESSENGER

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20

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

OYDC SNAPSHOT

TOP 10

OYDC 2017 Mike & Laura Finkbeiner

A fourth generation farmer, Mike works on the farm in Manchester, Michigan, with his parents and younger brother. He focuses much of his time on the nutrition, herd health and the crop side of operation. “We all pitch in to get whatever needs done completed. I enjoy working with my dad and brother. It is a great place to raise a family,” he says. Meanwhile, Laura teaches at Colombia Central Elementary school.

ABOUT US…

Mike keeps positive through the challenging times, with an open mind and hope for a better future.

They also try to plan ahead during the good times for the bad years to make it through.

Children: Lola (9 months)

Cows: 350 milking and dry

Land: 1,200 acres farmed

Milking facility: Milking two times a day in a double 10 herringbone

Local: Saline-Ann Arbor, District 1

Finkbeiner’s management practices include AI breeding, making the cows more efficient, attention to conservation of the land, high quality forages, consistency throughout the operation and milk quality. Mike and Laura plan on taking on more ownership of the farm, building a larger parlor and installing a sand recovery system.

FEBRUARY 2018 | MESSENGER

21

MICHIGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

CooperatioN. It’s not a word we take lightly.

As a cooperative, the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) has been by and for our now 1,700 farm families since the outset. But in an evolving industry like dairy, it is time cooperation extends from cooperation among our dairy farmers to industry-wide cooperation to serve the greater needs of all.

Challenging times like these past few years are shaping the nature of our business, but through cooperation we strive to enhance our milk marketing, support our members and ignite our community outreach efforts. Throughout fiscal year 2017, MMPA has maintained strong financial standing, positioning the cooperative well for investments and opportunities for growth in the future.

22

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

EDITOR’S NOTE: THE FOLLOWING IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE 2017 MMPA ANNUAL REPORT, WHICH WILL BE DISTRIBUTED SEPARATELY TO MEMBERS DURING THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY.

ENHANCES MILK MARKETING MMPA’s three dairy processing plants make up 45 percent of all milk marketed. Holding the largest share of the MMPA milk marketing portfolio, we continually strive to improve efficiencies to meet the growth of our milk supply and what’s ahead. Recognizing forecasted growth in the region, MMPA has more than doubled total processing capacity since 2008, now accommodating an additional 4.4 million pounds of milk per day in MMPA owned plants.

The butter market continues to be a bright opportunity for MMPA. With award-winning butter, we are looking at new ways to market our product for the best return to members.

One case initiated this year is a small-scale pilot project of packaging two-pound rolls of butter to sell in the Heritage Ridge Creamery retail store.

The dairy industry today has transformed from only a few years ago. Consumers have new desires, customers have new requirements and cooperatives are working to adapt.

Collaboration with fellow cooperatives and customers is an increasingly strategic way for MMPA to market members’ milk to the greatest advantage.

SUPPORTS MEMBERS With a members-first mentality, MMPA strives to help members improve every day and provide services to meet their needs. The MMPA laboratory in Novi, Michigan is in a phased expansion to better meet the needs of customers and members. The footprint of the laboratory was enlarged by 44 percent to prepare for added testing capabilities.

Milk testing is being integrated in the new software system, which has enhanced online member resources, milk checks and quality results.

With verification of animal care and sustainability standards becoming a greater need in the marketplace, MMPA is working alongside members to share the stories of how our members are good stewards of their land and animals. To fulfill these needs, MMPA cooperates with industry programs like the National Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) program and the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP).

MMPA continued a member communication program started last year, the member information meeting series. In 2017, 22 member information meetings brought the MMPA message to communities near members in the summer and winter. The goal of the meetings is to promote in-depth discussions with our members by being there to listen and to respond to the concerns and issues raised.

In the cooperative spirit, MMPA members have a variety of opportunities to hold leadership positions within MMPA—from local and district officer positions to dairy communicators to statewide committee positions. As MMPA works cooperatively in managing the business, so too are members encouraged to take part in the cooperative process.

FEBRUARY 2018 | MESSENGER

23

MICHIGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

IGNITES OUTREACH MMPA continued community engagement efforts this past year with another milk donation to serve the 82 counties in Michigan. The donation was fulfilled during the summer, and allowed Michigan food banks to provide milk – the most requested food item – to its patrons, including many families with children in need of milk.

Collaboration with industry partners enables milk donations to flourish. No truer is this statement than with the case of the 2016 milk donation to support food insecure families in the wake of the Flint Water Crisis. In recognition of how community partnerships can help serve a greater need, MMPA, the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, The Kroger Co. of Michigan and Michigan State University (MSU) Extension were together honored by the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy during the 2017 U.S. Dairy Sustainability Awards for the partnership’s donations to Flint, Michigan.

MMPA’s legislative and government relations arm promotes member interests to legislators in Washington, D.C. and Lansing, Michigan, on issues including international trade, school nutrition and dairy imitators. Through membership in the National Milk Producers Federation, Agriculture Leaders of Michigan, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives and the International Dairy Foods Association, our cooperative amplifies members’ needs.

Middlebury Cheese Company’s First Year with MMPA During fiscal year 2017, MMPA acquired a small cheese plant in Indiana, the Middlebury Cheese Company, LLC. While initial challenges marred the first few months of operation, MMPA faced them head-on to resolve in a short period of time. MMPA has made its mark on its wholly-owned subsidiary by making food safety quality improvements and is looking ahead by managing an expansion project that will bring capacity up to 1 million pounds of milk per day in the first phase. Heritage Ridge Creamery, a new brand for cheese and butter sold at the on-site retail store was launched to reflect both the legacy of the plant in its Amish community and the robust history of MMPA as a farmer-owned cooperative. Topping off Middlebury’s first year under the MMPA umbrella, the creamery’s pepper-jack cheese won the top honor in the National Milk Producers Federation Championship Cheese Contest.

24

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

MMPA Awards Nine Scholarships TO MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY AND PURDUE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

A

s a long-time supporter of dairy education, the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) annually sponsors scholarships for members, their children and employees enrolled at Michigan State University and Purdue University.

For the 2017-2018 academic year, MMPA awarded nine scholarships, totaling over $21,000. The scholarship recipients were honored and introduced to MMPA members at the annual Leaders' Conference on Nov. 20 in East Lansing, Michigan.

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.

“ENCOURAGING YOUNG PEOPLE TO PURSUE CAREERS IN AGRICULTURE, SPECIFICALLY THE DAIRY INDUSTRY, IS IMPORTANT TO MMPA. WE FEEL IT IS VITAL TO INVEST EVERY YEAR TO ENSURE A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR THE DAIRY INDUSTRY,” SAYS KEN NOBIS, MMPA PRESIDENT AND DAIRY FARMER FROM ST. JOHNS, MICHIGAN. “THESE SCHOLARSHIPS HELP STUDENTS FIND CAREERS WITHIN THE DAIRY SECTOR AND INSPIRE THEM TO STRENGTHEN THIS INDUSTRY.”

The MSU scholarships available are for students enrolled in the Dairy Management Program. According to the MSU 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.

In addition to the MSU Scholarships, MMPA also awards one scholarship to a member or a child of a member who is a student at Purdue University College of Agriculture.

Scholarship applications for Michigan State University the 20182019 academic year are due Sept. 1. for the MSU scholarships.

In continuation of MMPA’s efforts to support youth development and education, MMPA is a supporter of the Michigan Dairy Ambassador Scholarship and Leadership program and the Michigan Dairy Memorial and Scholarship Foundation.

26

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

Second Year MSU Scholarships Cameron Cook is from Pewamo, Michigan. The Cooks

operate a 270-cow dairy, of which Cameron owns ten cows.

At MSU, Cameron is a member of the MSU Dairy Club and MSU Dairy Judging Team. She recently earned high individual honors at both Louisville and Harrisburg National dairy judging contests, Ag Tech division. This past summer, Cameron completed an internship at Maddox Dairy, a 3,500cow dairy farm in Riverdale, California. After graduation from the Ag Tech two-year program, Cameron plans to transfer to the four-year Agribusiness Management program. Her career plans include working in the dairy industry specifically the genetics of cows.

Morgan Luoma and her family milk 60 cows in East

Leroy, Michigan. Morgan personally owns 25 cows. She is a member of the MSU Dairy Club, the Ag Tech dairy judging team and Spartan Spectacular Dairy Sale committee. Recent accomplishments include 3rd place Ag Tech Dairy Judging team at the World Dairy Expo and 4th place individual overall at Harrisburg. This past summer, Morgan completed an internship at Migliazzo Dairy, a 900-cow dairy farm in Atwater, California. Morgan is transferring to a four-year degree program at MSU with plans to work within the dairy industry and one day take over the family farm.

Casey Tebos is from Falmouth, Michigan on a 120-cow family farm. Now at MSU, Casey is an active member of the MSU Dairy Club. He hopes to work with dairy cattle forage treatments, seed sales with Mycogen Seeds and help on the family farm with his dad and brother. This past summer Casey completed an internship at the Alan VanderHorst Farm, a 12,000-cow dairy farm in Dublin, Texas.

Second Year Employee MSU Scholarship MMPA also awarded one second year employee scholarship to Hope McAlvey, from Carson City, Michigan. Hope is the daughter of Brian and Jackie and was employed at Alan Pung’s 700-cow farm. Hope personally owns eight cows. Currently, she is on the Ag Tech Dairy Judging team, involved with the MSU Dairy Club, Block and Bridle Club and a 2017 Michigan Dairy Ambassador. Hope placed 5th overall in the Harrisburg National judging contest. She intends to obtain a career in the dairy industry as a herdsman on a progressive dairy farm. Hope completed an internship at Fern – Joe Farms, a 2,000-cow dairy in Tulare, California.

MMPA First Year MSU Scholarships

First Year Employee MSU Scholarship

Jacob Arens is from Westphalia, Michigan. The Arens own and operate Double A Dairy, milk 400 cows and farm 1,200 acres. They raise all of their own young stock and Jacob owns 25 cows and heifers. In high school he received the FFA State Degree, participated in the Clinton County 4-H program in Dairy Judging and Dairy Quiz Bowl. Currently Jacob is participating in the MSU Dairy Club.

Nolan Wieber is from Fowler, Michigan and works on this

Gerrit Baker is from Bryon Center, Michigan and his family

farm milks 70 cows, seven of which he owns, and farm 500 acres. In high school he was very active in swim and dive and was All-conference both junior and senior years. He is currently active in the MSU Dairy Club and Dairy Judging.

At World Dairy Expo Gerrit was 17th overall in the 4-H judging contest. After graduation from MSU he would like to work for a company that specialized in genetics and breeding or go back and take over the family farm.

uncles’ farm, Wieber Dairy. They milk 250 cows and farm 800 acres. Nolan is currently a member of the MSU Dairy Club. After graduation he plans to work on this uncles’ farm and maybe someday own it.

Purdue University Scholarship In addition to the MSU Scholarships, MMPA also awards one scholarship to a student at Purdue University College of Agriculture. This year’s recipient is Jason Perkins from LaGrange, Indiana where is family milks 500 cows and farms 2,300 acres. Currently Jason has been on the Dean’s list every semester at Purdue University and is majoring in Agriculture Economics. After graduation he has accepted a position with Cargill with possible future plans of returning to the family farm.

Adam Wiles from Middleton, Michigan, milks 120 cows and

farm 500 acres along with his family. In high school Adam was a member of SADD, youth group and was Varsity football captain for two years and participated in track for 4 years. Currently, he is a member of the MSU Dairy Club. After graduation from MSU, Adam plans to return to the family farm.

BELOW: MSU SCHOLARSHIP STUDENTS WERE HONORED AT THE MMPA LEADERS’ CONFERENCE ON NOV. 20. BACK ROW, FROM LEFT: GERRIT BAKER, CASEY TEBOS, ADAM WILES AND NOLAN WIEBER. FRONT ROW, FROM LEFT: HOPE MCALVEY, MORGAN LUOMA, CAMERON COOK AND JACOB ARENS.

FEBRUARY 2018 | MESSENGER

27

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

IN 2018, LET US HELP YOU

SHARE YOUR DAIRY STORY

H

earing from the experts is the best way to know the truth about any topic, especially the food we eat. Consumers continue to be interested in learning where their food comes from, how it was raised and how it got to the grocery store, and ultimately their plate. They want to hear from you – the dairy experts.

Many of you are already connecting with consumers and sharing your dairy story. We want to help you continue providing positive dairy information.

Below are resources that The United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) continues to provide Michigan’s dairy farm families, including Dairy Promotion Grants, promotional materials and communication workshops.

Communication Workshops As dairy farmers your priority each day is caring for your cows and producing high quality milk.

How do you share what you do?

Are you able to convey to family, friends and neighbors the hard work you put into producing milk for consumers?

UDIM hosts workshops to arm producers with the tools and resources to tell their dairy story. UDIM will handle the planning logistics – all you have to do is recruit your fellow dairy producers!

For questions regarding the UDIM Dairy Promotion Grant Program, to order promotional materials, or to schedule a small communication workshop, please call United Dairy Industry of Michigan at 1-800-241-6455.

28

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

Dairy Promotion Grant The Dairy Promotion Grant Program is once again available to help Michigan dairy farm families, dairy farm employees or dairy cooperative employees conduct dairy promotional events. Farm families can apply for up to $1,500 annually for the purchase of dairy foods and event support items (banners, coolers, ice, etc.).

EVENTS MUST FOCUS ON AT LEAST ONE OF THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:

• Enhancing awareness of the nutritional and health benefits that come from including dairy foods as part of a balanced diet • Increasing knowledge about and awareness of the dairy industry • Advancing the image of the dairy industry and fostering public trust.

FOR FULL DETAILS AND TO COMPLETE THE APPLICATION, VISIT HTTP://WWW.MILKMEANSMORE.ORG/ DAIRY-PRODUCERS/GRANT-PROGRAM/GRANT-APPLICATION.

IN 2017, YOUR PEERS ACROSS THE STATE USED THE GRANTS TO SHARE DAIRY’S STORY IN THEIR COMMUNITY BY:

• Including dairy in holiday baskets given to those in need • Providing milk at summer reading programs • Cooking demonstrations that featured dairy foods • Hosting a community farm tour • Providing dairy products after local races or physical fitness challenges • Passing out dairy products during a community parade or event UDIM has promotional items available to help you spread the good word about dairy. These range from pens and stickers, to nutrition handouts that tout the benefit of dairy in our diet. We have a dairy item for every event and every audience! Call the UDIM office to place an order: 1-800-241-6455.

MERCHANDISE

Cloth and Disposable Towels for Udder Prep Proper udder prep prior to milking is an important part of reducing Somatic Cell Counts (SCC) and maintaining a low SCC level. A low SCC count is key to producing good quality milk on the farm. When combined with an effective pre-dip, the towels listed below can help you practice good udder prep procedures which help maintain that low SCC count.

The merchandise warehouse carries several options that vary from disposable paper towels to washable cloth udder prep towels. We have included a towel comparison to help you decide which option would work best for your farm. Please be sure to call the warehouse with any questions regarding these towels.

Cloth towel Stock # Towel Member Price

5294

Masterweave

5300 5261

# in Case Price per or Package Towel or Roll

50

$0.4240

cotton/poly weave

Oxford washcloth

$7.04

12

$0.5867

86% cotton/14% poly

Microfiber towel

$32.81

50

$0.6562

light blue microfiber cloth

Paper towel # in Case Price per or Package Towel or Rolll

Towel Type

5255

V- Single fold

$68.88

3500

$0.0197

brown single fold in a wrapper

5280

Roll cow

$27.60

4200

$0.0066

350'/roll, brown

5281

Hand towel

$37.00

2560

$0.0145

128 sheets/roll, white household paper

5283

Sani-prep 1772

$37.96

1980

$0.0192

white single fold in a box

5284

1770 Single fold

$37.96

2400

$0.0158

white single fold in a box

5295

Dairy towels

$35.63

2000

$0.0178

25#, heavier, softer material, size

These are service personnel only.

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

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

Towel Type

$21.20

Stock # Towel Member Price

Chemical, Sanitizer and Teat Dip Contact Information

and quantity unpredictable

Caution: To avoid contamination of milk, thoroughly wash and dry udder and teats before each milking using an individual clean towel.

For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392 or one of the following service representatives: Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636 Pat Mitchell 7273 N. Rollin Hwy. Addison, MI 49220 517-403-0928 Jason Wolfe 1890 Canter Dr. Riner, VA 24149 540-553-5755

1 Place order through your milk hauler 2 Call in your order:

THREE WAYS TO ORDER YOUR MMPA MERCHANDISE

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

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

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

3. Fax in your order:

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

FEBRUARY 2018 | MESSENGER

29 29

MERCHANDISE PREMIUMS

MMPA Quality Premium Program 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: 50,000 or below.............................................................................. +55¢/cwt.

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

76,000-100,000.............................................................................. +45¢/cwt.

101,000-125,000....................................................................................+40¢/cwt.

126,000-150,000............................................................................. +35¢/cwt.

151,000-175,000.................................................................................... +30¢/cwt.

176,000-200,000............................................................................ +25¢/cwt.

201,000-225,000.................................................................................. +20¢/cwt.

226,000-250,000............................................................................ +15¢/cwt.

251,000-300,000.................................................................................+00¢/cwt.

301,000-400,000.......................................................................... - 30¢/cwt.

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

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

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

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: Raw bacteria count and components.

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

Additional Tests Available: All costs are listed per individual sample.

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

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 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.

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 EU SCC Requirement All MMPA member milk must meet the requirements of European Union certification for SCC which is an average of 400,000 or less calculated by a rolling geometric mean.

• 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. Lab form provided below for your convenience.

NORTHSTAR MI LABORATORIES Loc/Hlr/Producer #___________________________________________ Sample Date_____________________ Member name________________________________________________ Sample ID________________________ BLV ELISA _________ Johne’s ELISA _________ Johne’s PCR _________ Pregnancy _________ Refer to fee schedule above for current pricing. The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer.

To avoid potential service charges, this card MUST be filled out completely when sending samples to be tested by NorthStar Labs.

30

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

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.* 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, 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.

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 2018 | MESSENGER

31

FREELINERS

Freeliners and Classifieds can now be submitted online.

Visit www.mimilk.com/michigan-milk-messenger/ advertise/freeliner-and-classified-ads

Bulls Registered Holstein Bulls: We now have a nice selection of service age bulls, sired by top AI sires. Green Meadow Farms, Elsie, MI. 989-862-4291 or visit www.greenmeadowfarms.com.

Service age Holstein bulls. Call Steve Alexander, 810-622-8548 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 Hage Holsteins, 269-673-4886 or 269-217-6076, ask for Tim. www.verhageholsteins.com.

1000 gal Mueller Bulk Tank and Washing System, Mueller AccuTherm Plate Heat Exchanger, SprayMaster 3 Iodine Pump, Boumatic Air Star Vacuum Pump. All in good working condition. 616-893-8756

Equipment New Holland, model 892 forage harvester with electric controls, hay head, #824 2-row corn head, screen used for snaplage, nearly new knives and shear bar, good condition, $4,800. 989-574-7229

Misc.

2017 Corn Silage, bunker, packed and covered. Sample available Ionia County. 616-893-8756

Big Holstein AI Springing

Wanted

heifers. $1,600 each. Your

800 gal. Mueller bulk tank.

616-432-1658.

choice. 989-330-6416

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 desired month of publication.

Cows Breeding age heifers and Holstein bred heifers due in March and April.

Call 231-869-5233.

Milking Equipment

LEGENDAIRY.

Surge Double 5 Auto Flow Parlor, 50 plate pre-cooler, crowd gate,

No bull.

Kuhn merger, like new, 3970 John Deere chopper with 7 ft. hay head,

Co-Products Menu

936 versatile 4 wheel drive tractor.

Soybean meal, canola meal, hominy, oat hulls, wheat midds, citrus pulp, malt sprouts, beet pulp, soybean hulls, cereal feed, cottonseed, distillers, gluten feed, wet feeds and more!

616-218-9350 16 glass 65lb weigh jars and mounting hardware with extra parts. 12 Delaval HiFlow Sensors and SST Takeoff Pads. Jars $100 per unit and sensors $100 and pads $450 per set. 989-306-1336

32

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

Non-GMO

products available

Contact merchandisers at ZFS, Inc: MI/IN/OH: 866.888.7082 WI: 800-523-6760 www.zfsinc.com/divisions/ingredients

CLASSIFIED ADS A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS 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:

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.

MAIL:

Classified Ads

Michigan Milk Messenger

FOR SALE: NEW & USED MILK TANKS.

P.O. BOX 800 Novi, MI 48376-8002

We stock all sizes, makes, models.

Special prices to co-op members, corporate & private farms. Contact us

EMAIL: Muszynski@mimilk.com

anytime day or night. Spring special

FAX: 248-426-3412

2000 gal. Muellers for $13,900 & up.

2700 & 4000 gal. Muellers call for OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can

Concrete Grooving and Texturing

fix your scabbled floors. Diamond

Call: Jeff Brisky - Owner

damage. Call Opperman Grooving

sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking of concrete. No hoof Inc., Portland. 517-647-7381.

Toll Free: 1-800-294-1202 Cell: 1-716-353-1137

quote. 800-558-0112.

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

ALPHALFA HAYLAGE (excellent & fair grades) & CORN SILAGE.

DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING,

Call 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

INC: NO water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better

NEW KATOLIGHT PTO GENERATOR,

traction. We also offer texturing

60 KW, keep everyone warm and

for your previously grooved

producing if there is a power

floors. Three operators will travel

outage. Call Brent at 248-770-5122.

Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. 1987.

HOOF TRIMMING - 20 YEARS OF

Call 1-800-365-3361.

EXPERIENCE. Also doing fly control and cement grooving. Gibson Hoof

CONCRETE GROOVING BY

Care (Tom) 989-239-6843.

TRI-STATE SCABBLING, home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction,

FOR SALE: SPRINGING HEIFERS out

lowest prices. (800) 554-2288.

of an AI bred herd. Aron Whitaker,

www.tristatescabbling.com.

Elsie, MI. 989-666-6565.

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS OVER 100 SERVICE AGE BULLS FOR YOUR SELECTION!

PTO and Automatic Start Generators

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

1-800-248-8070 M-40 South Hamilton, MI 49419

GREEN MEADOW FARMS

www.hamiltondist.com

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

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

FEBRUARY 2018 | MESSENGER

33

MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary | FOR MILK MARKETED IN DECEMBER 2017 AMS Survey Prices (monthly average, per pound)

Cheese 1.6481 / LB

Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33 # This Month # Year Ago % Change

Total Class 1 Sales

541,188,321

569,601,250

-4.99

Total Class 2 Sales

261,850,391

279,544,099

-6.33

Total Class 3 Sales

540,709,990

366,996,648

+47.33

Total Class 4 Sales

317,127,223

323,966,257

-2.11

1,660,875,925

1,540,108,254

+7.84

32.6%

37.0%

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers...............................................................................4,756 Avg. Daily Production per farm....................................................11,265 Avg. Protein Test...........................................................................3.22%

Butter 2.2319 / LB

Avg. Butterfat Test.........................................................................3.95% Avg. Oth Solids Test......................................................................5.75% Avg. SCC - MMPA......................................................................155,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb.......................................................................... $2.0378

Milk Powders

Other Solids Price /lb................................................................. $0.1070

NonfatDry Milk

Class III Price @ 3.5%.................................................................... $15.44

0.7237 / LB

Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt..................................................... $0.16

Dry Whey

Uniform Price @ 3.5%................................................................... $15.60

0.3030 / LB

SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000..................................................... $0.00082

National Trends* (production in millions of pounds)

*For 23 States 34

Butterfat Price /lb....................................................................... $2.4951

MESSENGER | FEBRUARY 2018

2017

2016

% Change

California 3,371 3,380 -0.3 Wisconsin 2,546 2,520 +1.0 New York 1,219 1,246 -2.2 Idaho 1,206 1,209 -0.2 Pennsylvania 916 911 +0.5 Michigan 933 910 +2.5 Texas 1,030 953 +8.1 Minnesota 825 816 +1.1 New Mexico 689 668 +3.1 Washington 541 547 -1.1 Ohio 463 459 +0.9 Indiana 355 350 +1.4 Total U.S. 16,974 16,777 +1.2 U.S Y-T-D 202,388 199,362 +1.5

MMPA STAFF MERCHANDISE

MMPA Field Staff

Novi Headquarters

Manager of Field Services Ben Chapin, Blanchard......................................989-289-0731

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

Northwest Area Supervisor Sarah Michalek, Dewitt.....................................248-305-0537 Animal Care Coordinator Deb Gingrich, Leroy...........................................248-520-3580 Frank Brazeau, Oconto, WI................................906-250-0337 Lyndsay Earl, Ludington.....................................231-519-2455 Elyse Martin, Charlotte......................................810-701-6460 Bridget Moore, Perrinton...................................231-414-4539 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard.................................. 248-756-2062

Northeast Area Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Christy Dinsmoore, Vassar.................................248-513-7920 Animal Care Coordinator Lindsay Green, East Lansing...............................989-488-8159 Ashley Herriman, Herron...................................269-245-6632 Laura Lubeski, Bad Axe......................................248-826-6294 Emily Peacock, Imlay City...................................248-826-7243

Southwest Area Supervisor Dave Brady, Grass Lake......................................517-937-9061 Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers....................................269-967-7351 Brittni Tucker, Wyoming....................................248-880-3785 Steve Post, White Pigeon...................................248-938-1555

Southeast Area Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Steve Lehman, Ithaca........................................989-330-1638 Rachel Botta, Findlay, OH...................................248-533-2288 Joe Packard, Manchester...................................248-520-3481

Other Member Services

General Manager Joe Diglio................................................................ ext. 202 Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys......................................................... ext. 240 Hedging and Business Development Aaron Beak............................................................. ext. 256

Officers

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

Mark Halbert, Vice President

Management Information Systems Andrew Caldwell.....................................................ext. 304

Joe Diglio, GM / Secretary

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

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

Sales James Feeney.......................................................... ext. 258

Directors-At-Large

Kris Wardin, St. Johns 989-640-9420

Member Services Dean Letter................................................... 989-289-9251 Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt.................................................... ext. 210 Communications Allison Stuby Miller................................................. ext. 296 Krista Schrock............................................... 269-986-6792 Supply Chain Therese Tierney....................................................... ext. 217 Member Relations Jessica Welch.......................................................... ext. 303

Manufacturing Plants

MMPA Labs

Constantine, Michigan Dave Davis, Plant Manager............................ 269-435-2835 Ovid, Michigan Colt Johnson, Plant Manager........................ 989-834-2221 Middlebury Cheese Co., Middlebury, Indiana Henry England, 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

Josep Barenys, Asst. Treasurer

Operations Ed Jaquay............................................................... ext. 248

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

Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.).........800-391-7560

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

Ken Nobis, St. Johns 989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 202

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

Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.)..................... 989-834-2515

Ken Nobis, President

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

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

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

In Michigan....................................................800-572-5824 Toll Free 800-233-2405

Board of Directors

If you are unable to reach your assigned member 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.

Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453 Mark Halbert, Battle Creek 269-964-0511 Mark Iciek, Gladwin 989-387-4767 District Directors 1 Hank Choate Cement City 517-529-9032 2 Tim Hood Paw Paw 269-657-5771 3 David Pyle Zeeland 616-772-1512 4 Corby Werth Alpena 989-464-5436 5 Doug Chapin Remus 231-349-4059 6 Tony Jandernoa Fowler 989-593-2224 7 Eric Frahm Frankenmuth 989-652-3552 8 Scott Lamb Jeddo 810-327-6135

FEBRUARY 2018 | MESSENGER

35

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