Milk Messenger: September/October 2021

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021

VOL. 104

LET’S GO! 14

PHOTO CONTEST RESULTS

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KIP AND ROCHELLE SIEGLER 2021 OUTSTANDING YOUNG DAIRY COOPERATORS

TRANSFORMING DAIRY AT MICHGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

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features

14 You Gave Us Your Best Shots

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Selected from more than 120 entries, the five winning photographs from MMPA’s fourth annual photo contest capture exactly what it means to live the dairy lifestyle.

TRANSFORMING DAIRY AT MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY Michigan State University is strengthening dairy's place at MSU by modernizing dairy education and reinvesting in industry communication.

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KIP AND ROCHELLE SIEGLER NAMED MMPA OYDC Dairy farmers and YouTube stars from Imlay City, Michigan, the Sieglers were recently selected as the 2021 MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators (OYDC) by a panel of judges represented by leaders in the Great Lakes dairy industry. milk messenger / SEP-OCT 2021

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contents

IN THIS ISSUE, MMPA'S SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT IS ON JAMES WEBER, DISTRICT 7, VASSAR, MICHIGAN.

BEGINNING THIS FALL, MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS PURSUING AN ANIMAL SCIENCE DEGREE CAN SIGN UP FOR A NEW DAIRY CONCENTRATION.

05 EDITOR’S NOTE

28 FIVE TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME BORROWERS

06 MILK MINUTE

30 YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

A Producer's Perspective on Trade

08 QUALITY WATCH

What resources are available for animal care?

IN INDIANA AND MICHIGAN

32 FREELINERS & CLASSIFIEDS

10 NEWS & VIEWS

33 FARM SUPPLY STORE

12 LEGISLATIVE WATCH

34 STAFF

20 SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT: JAMES WEBER

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MEMBER MOMENT

“Michigan’s agricultural community, especially the state’s dairy farmers, have come alongside of us throughout the pandemic. Their partnership means fresh, nutritious food and milk for families, children and seniors.”

DR. PHIL KNIGHT, FOOD BANK COUNCIL OF MICHIGAN (PAGE 12)

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VOL. 104

/ NO. 2

Milk Messenger (USPS # 345-320) is published bimonthly by the Michigan Milk Producers Association, 41310 Bridge Street, Novi, MI 48376-8002. Periodicals postage paid at Novi and additional mailing offices.

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

President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Diglio Managing Editor Sheila Burkhardt, Senior Director of Member and Government Relations

Editor’s Note

BY EMILY KITTENDORF

Fall is finally here (at least unofficially)! Kids are back in school, leaves are changing colors and the nights are colder… all meaning that harvest is here or right around the corner and before we know it local meeting season will be here.

On the Cover On the cover is this year’s OYDCs Kip and Rochelle Siegler, elected at their local

Editors Allison Stuby Miller, Communications Manager Emily Kittendorf, Communications Coordinator Advertising Emily Kittendorf, messenger@mimilk.com, 248-474-6672, ext. 234 Publication Designer reZüberant! Inc., Stacy Love rezudesign.com Printing Foresight Group, Stacey Trzeciak staceyt@foresightgroup.net

farm in Westphalia, Michigan. Kip’s a social media star with a crazy large following

Publication Office MMPA Milk Messenger P.O. Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002

on YouTube – so official he even has his own merch shop. Learn more about him and

p: 248-474-6672 f: 248-474-0924

Rochelle on page 24 and find more information about the conference on page 22.

e: messenger@mimilk.com

meeting last year and selected as finalists last month. I had a chance to meet them in August at the OYDC Conference held at Brent and Emily Simon’s (last year’s OYDCs)

w: mimilk.com

In this Issue Nothing is more fall than back to school and football! Michigan State University is in session and the animal science department has strengthened dairy’s position by

Established in 1916, MMPA is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

creating additional dairy-focused classes as part of a new dairy concentration. I met

An Equal Opportunity Employer – F/M/V/D

with three faculty members to learn more about it and other exciting dairy-related

Subscriptions: mimilk.com/subscribe MMPA members - 50¢ per year Non-members - $5 per year

updates at MSU (page 16).

Also back to school are MMPA’s summer interns, Faith Adam at Purdue University and Monika Dzuiba at MSU. Learn more about them and their internship experiences on page 11. And finally, the wait is over to view the results of the 2021 MMPA photo contest

Circulation: 2,600

(page 14). The views of the dairy lifestyle are stunning and harvest lends itself to some of

(ISSN 0026-2315)

the most beautiful photos! Take time to capture them for next year’s contest!

I wish you a happy and safe harvest!. milk messenger / SEP-OCT 2021

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MILK MINUTE

A Producer’s Perspective on Trade

BY DOUG CHAPIN, MMPA BOARD CHAIRMAN

E

arlier this spring, I was asked to take part in a new group formed by the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) and the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) called the Dairy Trade Envoy. The group is comprised of 28 dairy producers and industry staff who learn about trade policy and the value that trade represents now and in the future. The goal is to give producers and manufacturing representatives the expertise to engage with media and policy makers to provide a producer’s perspective on trade.

DOUG CHAPIN

I’d like to frame where dairy trade is today. In 2020, 16 percent of dairy solids were exported.

Now, 2021 is likely to surpass 2020. To put the volume of exports in context, we actually exported more milk solids in July 2021 than our domestic fluid milk market used. We exported over $6.5 billion of dairy products with a $12 billion impact across the supply chain. This is evidence that exports affect more than just dairy producers, they benefit the entire supply chain.

Exports allow us to balance the domestic market. We use 97 percent of the milk fat we produce here at home in the U.S., but only 80 percent of the skim solids. Exports provide a home for the unused 20 percent.

Our leading trade partners are Mexico, China, Southeast Asia and Canada. Our leading export products are Non-Fat Dry Milk/Skim Milk Powder (NFDM/SMP), whey products, cheese and lactose.

So what are a few of the challenges to trade facing our teams at USDEC and NMPF today?

While the new United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is good for dairy, we need to urge the administration to enforce it. Canada has not complied with USMCA commitments and has discouraged full utilization of USMCA dairy market access allotments. We are encouraged by U.S. Trade Representative Tai’s dispute settlement case with Canada. Mexico is a little different though. They have tried to erect regulatory barriers affecting cheese and skim milk powder. USDEC continues to monitor this situation.

Another challenge to trade has been shipping, specifically from the COVID-19 pandemic. A surge in buying from Asia resulted in a severe shortage of shipping containers and congestion at ports. In several cases, ships returned to Asia with empty containers, while U.S. docks had export products just sitting there. The House has introduced legislation (The Ocean Reform Act of 2021) that could help this issue. We’ll keep you posted on how this moves forward.

Although the Phase One China Deal offered dairy some opportunities, we still face some retaliatory tariffs. We are seeking to eliminate these and allow the U.S. to gain more market share in China.

The European Union and New Zealand have outpaced the U.S. in trade agreements. We encourage the Administration to pursue new trade agreements with the United Kingdom, Southeast Asia, Japan and China.

I appreciate the opportunity to serve as a Dairy Trade Envoy. We have already had an Envoy participant testify before the U.S. Senate on the need for enforcement of the USMCA and I’ve been able to discuss our needs with legislators on a couple of issues. One thing I’ve learned is that trade is never finished. The need for new agreements and maintenance of existing agreements will never end.

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QUALITY WATCH

What resources are available for animal care?

WE ASKED THE EXPERTS:

Christy Dinsmoore

Frank Brazeau

Ashley Kennedy

MMPA Member Representative

MMPA Member Representative

MMPA Member

‘An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ rings true for teat end health when temperatures plummet. The easiest way to prevent teat end damage due to freezing temperatures is to know the enemy: moisture and wind.

As winter approaches, monitoring CIP system water temperatures is critical.

Temperature is one of the essential factors for successful removal of milk soils from milking equipment. A prerinse start temperature of 130 degrees helps to heat up the CIP system and remove milk soils. No matter what CIP system you have (stanchion barn, parlor, manual cleaning, bulk tank, etc.), the detergent cycle ending temperature should not be below 110 degrees, but 120 degrees is preferred to keep soils in suspension.

It’s instinct to shut up barns to keep the cold and wind out, but these practices retain excess moisture that collects on teat skin and causes chapped, dry skin.

Better practices are to block drafts but ensure fresh air can still circulate, and to keep dry bedding in stalls as insulation for teat skin while cows are lying in housing areas.

It’s tempting to quit post teat dipping during extreme cold, but this poses two problems. One is the teats are not getting the benefits of skin conditioner when they need it most. The other is bacteria left behind after milking can grow unchecked by sanitizing agents. A better practice is to use post dip containing at least 12 percent emollients during winter and allow dry time before cows exit into the cold. Another option is to post dip and after 30 seconds, blot the teat ends with a paper towel to remove excess dip.

Wintertime temperatures can be brutal, but they don’t have to compromise teat health or milk quality!

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Cold winter temperatures in milking barns and unheated parlors cool milking equipment quickly after end of milking.

In turn, wash water is cooled on contact with cold equipment and more heat is lost at the wash vat during filling in a cold milkhouse.

Check prerinse and ending detergent temperatures at least once a week. If temperatures dip below recommendations, prevent loss of temperature by covering the wash vat to hold heat in, ending the wash cycle sooner before water temperatures cool, installing quick fill to reduce fill time and monitoring when hot water is used for other winter chores so that it does not deplete supply.

Automatic wash systems are meant to push start and leave, but still need monitoring to prevent high bacteria counts due to equipment failure and/or low water temperature.

Winter brings unique challenges to the farm since we use robots. The trick to keeping robots working well is to keep them warm. To prepare for winter, we prep our wood stove to keep the rooms and arms thawed out, and we put windbreaks and freezer strips around the robots. All this keeps the robots warm and keeps the cows motivated to visit the robots because they enjoy the heat too. Keeping the robots functioning in the cold ensures arms are thawed for teat prep and milker attachment and chemical lines are thawed to deliver chemicals needed to clean robots and teat prep brushes. The robots work better, leading to better teat prep, timely milking and better milk quality.

We also evaluate rations to make sure there is enough energy in their diet to keep cows healthy and producing well.

We work closely with our nutritionist to make sure we understand the digestibility of our feeds.

Winterizing the barn is also essential. We all know how difficult Michigan winters can be and checking curtains, closing open spaces in the barn and winterizing waterers is crucial. By taking all these precautions, we are working to keep our milk quality the best it can be.

Mycotoxins threaten animal health and business profitability, right across the farming sector. In the fight against them, it pays to be smarter, faster and better equipped. With Alltech, that's exactly what you'll be.

Matt Neumayer Territory Sales Manager 989-310-6013 mneumayer@alltech.com

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NEWS & VIEWS

UPCOMING

EVENT September 29 Advisory Committee Meeting

Help establish a named MDMSF endowment to recognize Dr. Joe Domecq

A

dairy industry driven effort is underway to help raise $50,000 to establish a named endowment through the Michigan Dairy Memorial and Scholarship Foundation (MDMSF) to

recognize Dr. Joe Domecq’s lifelong service to the dairy industry. The endowment will provide financial support to students participating in dairy judging and the dairy management programs at MSU.

MMPA producers scoring 95 percent or higher on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Ratings JAMES R & CONNIE M SEEFELDT STEENBLIK DAIRY INC

Many MMPA members are familiar with Dr. Domecq (pictured at left) and may have worked with him in some capacity over the years in his role as Coordinator of the Ag Tech Dairy Management program and dairy judging team coach. In addition to these responsibilities Dr. Domecq currently serves as the new Coordinator of Dairy Education within the MSU Department of Animal Science which will provide an opportunity for students to gain practical, hands-on skills and knowledge needed to succeed in many of the career opportunities that are available in the dairy industry. The goal of the fundraising effort is to establish an endowment within the MDMSF and when fully funded at $50,000, the intention would be to utilize the funds generated each year to provide support to students participating in dairy judging and dairy management programs at MSU. The establishment of the endowment is meant to recognize Dr. Domecq’s many years of dedicated service to dairy youth and the dairy industry by providing a continued source of financial support to two key dairy programs at MSU that Dr. Domecq has helped grow in support of the dairy industry.

THE MICHIGAN DAIRY MEMORIAL AND SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION IS THE LARGEST SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM IN THE MSU COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES. THANKS TO GENEROUS DONORS, MDMSF PROVIDES SCHOLARSHIPS ANNUALLY TO WORTHY MSU STUDENTS WITH PLANS TO ADVANCE THE FUTURE OF THE DAIRY INDUSTRY. TO CONTRIBUTE, VISIT: GIVINGTO.MSU.EDU/GIFT/?SID=9436

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INTERN SPOTLIGHTS

Faith Adam

Monika Dziuba

Hometown: Goshen, Indiana

Hometown: Riverview, Michigan

Schooling: Purdue University Food Science Junior

Schooling: Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Class of 2023

Dream Job: Running a wine and cheese business, building a creamery, or working in a lab.

Dream Job: Staff veterinarian for a group of dairy farms and dairy farm consulting

What led you to interning at MMPA? Having grown up on a dairy farm, I have always had a huge interest in the dairy industry and in dairy products. While pursuing my degree, it became more and more evident that I wanted to see the inner workings at a dairy manufacturing food plant.

What better place to learn than the place that my family sends their milk to?

What was the most rewarding experience as an intern at MMPA? The most rewarding experience during my internship was being able to help the Constantine plant with environmental monitoring and presenting my findings to MMPA President & CEO Joe Diglio, and the management team. For environmental monitoring at Constantine, I took over 70 pictures of different environmental zones all throughout the plant with descriptions for each picture and an explanation of how to properly perform an environmental monitoring test for lab tech training.

What do you like most about working in the dairy industry?

What I like most about the dairy industry is that we're all like family. We all want each other to succeed, we are very team-oriented and we are always willing to help each other out whether it be the dairy farmers, the people working at the plants, or the people working in office jobs.

What experiences did you gain as an intern at MMPA? In my previous experiences and in school, I have focused a lot on the harvesting of milk from the cow. As an intern with MMPA, I was able to focus on the work that goes into taking that harvested milk from the bulk tank, turning it into a safe and healthy product, and rewarding farmers for the work that they put into making that product.

What was the most exciting/rewarding experience as an intern at MMPA? The most rewarding experience as an intern was being able to work with and assist dairy farmers in a different setting than just when they call the vet out. I also really enjoyed meeting all the field reps and people that I did within the MMPA company, as it was remarkable to see the important role that each person has in keeping our farms viable and profitable.

What do you like most about working in the dairy industry?

I love working in the dairy industry because of the amazing and hard-working families that embody it. I also enjoy being a part of an industry that provides a great product to families throughout Michigan and across the country.

District 1 Director Hank Choate Retires, Brian Preston to Complete Term

HANK CHOATE

After serving on the MMPA board of directors since 2012, District 1 Director Hank Choate retired after selling his cows in August. MMPA is grateful for his years of service to the cooperative and the impact he has had on the Michigan agriculture industry.

Delegates from District 1 voted in a special election and selected Brian Preston of Quincy, Michigan to complete Choate's three-year term.

milk milkmessenger messenger//SEP-OCT SEP-OCT2021 2021

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LEGISLATIVE WATCH

USDA Establishes Dairy Donation Program Part of Continuing USDA Pandemic Assistance U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh recently announced the establishment of a $400 million Dairy Donation Program (DDP) on a call with Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow. The DDP, established by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) in accordance with the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, aims to facilitate timely dairy product donations while reducing food waste.

The establishment of DDP is part of $6 billion of pandemic assistance USDA announced in March and follows last week’s announcement of $350 million Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program for dairy farmers on August 19. It is the second part of an over $2 billion comprehensive package to help the dairy industry recover from the pandemic and improve or establish programs to make it more resilient to future challenges.

Under the DDP, eligible dairy organizations will partner with nonprofit feeding organizations that distribute food to individuals and families in need. Those partnerships may apply for and receive reimbursements to cover some expenses related to eligible dairy product donations. DDP was inspired in part by the donations made

by Michigan Milk Producers Association in conjunction with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan in response to the Flint water crisis.

“The benefits of the Dairy Donation Program are twofold – it supplements other financial support for producers while providing nutritious dairy products to American families,” said Deputy Secretary Bronaugh. “When there is surplus milk production, we encourage the milk be donated instead of being dumped. Together we can help someone in need, minimize food waste and support the U.S. dairy industry.”

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“The Dairy Donation Program is a win-win for farmers and families. It will be easier for dairy farmers to donate milk and other dairy products, which in turn helps feed vulnerable Americans, including our children,” said Senator Debbie Stabenow, Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.

“Michigan dairy farm families and food banks continue to lead by example.

I am proud of the role they played in pioneering this initiative which has become a model for the nation.”

“MMPA is excited for the launch of this new program, which builds on the significant donation partnerships we have been undertaking in Michigan for the last several years,” said Joe Diglio, president and CEO of MMPA. “Our dairy farmer members and others in the dairy sector have long supported giving back to our communities, and this program helps expand our efforts. We thank Senator Stabenow for her leadership in getting this program enacted into law, and we applaud the U.S. Department of Agriculture for its work in implementing this new program, which will aid hunger relief efforts across the country while reducing food waste and supporting local dairy farmers.”

“This program comes at a time when the need has never been greater for fresh foods to help Michiganders,” said Dr. Phil Knight, executive director of the Food Bank Council of Michigan.

“Michigan’s agricultural community, especially the state’s dairy farmers, have come alongside of us throughout the pandemic. Their partnership means fresh, nutritious food and milk for families, children and seniors.”

Dairy farmers, cooperatives, or processors that purchase fresh milk or bulk dairy products to process into retail-packaged dairy products and meet other requirements are eligible to participate. Costs reimbursed through the program include the cost of milk used to make the donated eligible dairy product and some of the manufacturing and transportation costs. Reimbursement of these costs is designed to help offset some of the costs associated with processing and donating eligible dairy products.

SOURCE: UDSA

Advisory Committee DISTRICT 1 Dan Minnis, Dansville...................517-719-5894 Scott Ferry, Litchfield....................517-214-3298 Art Riske, Hanover........................517-524-6015 Clark Emmons, Fayette, OH...........419-466-4471 Brian Preston, Quincy...................517-376-1350

DISTRICT 2 Mark Crandall, Battle Creek...........269-660-2229 Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN......574-825-2454 Danny Ransler, Gobles...................269-998-3802 Josh Gamble, New Carlisle, IN.......574-360-7828 Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN....574-202-5198

DISTRICT 3 Gary Nelsen, Grant........................231-834-7610 Bill Gruppen, Zeeland...................616-520-5143 Burke Larsen, Scottville................231-425-8988 Jonathon Acker, Sand Lake............616-648-7037 Arlyn Walt, Coopersville................616-837-8247

DISTRICT 4 Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth...........425-533-8106 Ron Lucas, Posen..........................989-379-4694 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard..............906-630-1957 Paul Ponik, Posen..........................989-464-5924

DISTRICT 5 Robert Lee, Marion.......................231-743-6794 John Black, Howard City................231-846-7252 Jack Jeppesen, Stanton.................989-330-1905 Bruce Benthem, McBain................231-920-1615 Mark Bontekoe, Marion.................231-510-0764

DISTRICT 6 David Reed, Owosso......................989-274-8147 Mike Halfman, St. Johns................989-640-1962 Steve Thelen, Fowler.....................989-640-1075 Ken Wieber, Fowler.......................989-292-1187 Renee McCauley, Lowell................616-283-6411

DISTRICT 7 John Bennett, Prescott..................989-345-4264 Rodney Fowler, Chesaning............989-302-2299 Tracy House, Mt. Pleasant.............989-621-6610 Philip Gross, Weidman..................989-289-0670 Jason Elenbaum, Mayville.............989-274-1974

DISTRICT 8 Darwin Sneller, Sebewaing...........989-977-3718 Bill Blumerich, Berlin....................810-706-2955 Mike Noll, Croswell.......................810-404-4071 Jeremy Sharrard, Peck...................810-404-5076 Bryan Schulte, Ruth......................989-551-8200

USDA Announces Improvements to the Dairy Safety Net and New Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the details of the Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program as part of meetings with farmers and a tour of farms with Senator Leahy. In June, Secretary Vilsack committed to providing additional pandemic assistance for dairy farmers in an exchange at a hearing with Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Leahy.

T

hrough the program, USDA will provide about $350 million in pandemic assistance payments to dairy farmers who received a lower value for their products due to market abnormalities caused by the pandemic. The assistance is part of a larger package including permanent improvements to the Dairy Margin Coverage safety net program.

“The Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program is another component of our ongoing effort to get aid to producers who have been left behind and build on our progress towards economic recovery,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

“Family dairy farmers have been battered by the pandemic, trade issues and unpredictable weather and are the life-blood of many rural communities throughout Vermont, the Northeast and many other regions. This targeted assistance is the first step in USDA’s comprehensive approach that will total over $2 billion to help the dairy industry recover from the pandemic and be more resilient to future challenges for generations to come.”

Under the Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program, payments will reimburse qualified dairy farmers for 80 percent of the revenue difference per month based on an annual production of up to 5 million pounds of milk marketed and on fluid milk sales from July through December 2020. The payment rate will vary by region based on the actual losses on pooled milk related to price volatility. USDA will make payments through agreements with independent handlers and cooperatives.

Handlers and cooperatives will distribute the monies on the same basis July - December 2020 payments were made to their dairy farmer suppliers and a formula set by USDA. USDA will reimburse handlers and cooperatives for allowed administrative costs.

“

“The Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program . . . is the first step in USDA’s comprehensive approach that will total over $2 billion to help the dairy industry recover from the pandemic and be more resilient to future challenges for generations to come.”

USDA will contact eligible handlers and cooperatives to notify them of the opportunity to participate in the Program. USDA will distribute payments to participating handlers within 60 days of entering into an

agreement. Once funding is provided, a handler will have 30 days to distribute monies to qualifying dairy farmers. As part of the program, handlers also will provide virtual or inperson education to dairy farmers on a variety of dairy topics available from USDA or other sources. A handler will have until March 1, 2022 to directly provide educational opportunities to dairy farmers.

The program is part of $6 billion of pandemic assistance USDA announced in March to address a number of gaps and disparities in previous rounds of assistance. Other pandemic assistance to dairy farmers includes $400 million for a new Dairy Donation Program to address food insecurity and mitigate food waste and loss; and $580 million for Supplemental Dairy Margin Coverage for small and medium farms.

Outside the pandemic assistance, USDA will also make improvements to the Dairy Margin Coverage safety net program updating the feed cost formula to better reflect the actual cost dairy farmers pay for high quality alfalfa. This change will be retroactive to January 2020 and is expected to provide additional retroactive payments of about $100 million for 2020 and 2021. Unlike the pandemic assistance, this change will also be part of the permanent safety net and USDA estimates it will average about $80 million per year or approximately $800 million over ten years for dairy headed into the upcoming Farm Bill. Full details on these additional actions to support dairy farmers will be provided when regulations are published in the coming weeks. Dairy farmers should wait until these details are available to contact their local USDA Service Center for more information.

SOURCE: UDSA

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PHOTO CONTEST

1ST PLACE LISA WARNKE “COWS OUT TO PASTURE IN EARLY MORNING.”

YOU GAVE US YOUR BEST SHOTS

BY EMILY KITTENDORF

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Selected from more than 120 entries, the five winning photographs from MMPA’s fourth annual photo contest capture exactly what it means to live the dairy lifestyle.

In this year’s contest, there were five awards given: first, second and third place judged by a panel of judges, along with a People’s Choice Award determined by public voting and a Staff Choice Award, the favorite photo among MMPA employees.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• FIRST PLACE

The first-place winner was Lisa Warnke of St. Johns, Michigan, with her photo titled, “Cows Out to Pasture in Early Morning.” The photo was taken on D&L Dairy and is the perfect setting for a prize-winning photo.

Capturing the peaceful morning scene awarded Lisa a $100 gift card to MMPA’s Farm Supply Store.

SECOND PLACE

There was a tie for second place. Julia Troyer of Laotto, Indiana, and Vickie Rupprecht, of Vassar, Michigan, both took home second-place with their photos titled, “Up Close and Personal” and “Mother’s Comfort,” respectively. As recognition for their impressive photography skills, they both receive a $50 gift card to MMPA’s Farm Supply Store.

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THIRD PLACE

Placing third was Sheldon Thomas of Middlebury, Indiana, with his photo “Early Morning Sunrise.” Taken on LeAnn Acres, the photo captures cows on pasture during a foggy, early morning sunrise. Sheldon will receive a cheese box from Heritage Ridge Creamery to acknowledge his success.

SECOND PLACE (TIE): “UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL” BY JULIA TROYER, LAOTTO, IN

SECOND PLACE (TIE): “MOTHER'S COMFORT”

BY VICKIE RUPPRECHT, VASSAR, MI

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PEOPLE’S CHOICE

The People’s Choice Award was given to “Proud Mama of Twins” captured

by Emma Perales of Marlette, Michigan, on D&P Dairy. The photo caught the eye of the general public receiving over 20 percent of all the votes in the People’s Choice contest. Emma will receive a $25 gift card to MMPA’s Farm Supply Store.

STAFF CHOICE AWARD

Lastly, Vickie Rupprecht also took home the Staff Choice Award with her photo titled “New Life.” The tender moment captured between a cow and her calf won the hearts of MMPA’s employees earning Vickie an MMPA t-shirt. Vickie’s photo rounds out the best of the best of the 2021 MMPA Photo Contest.

THIRD PLACE: “EARLY MORNING SUNRISE” BY SHELDON THOMAS, MIDDLEBURY, IN

PC

PEOPLE’S CHOICE: “PROUD MAMA OF TWINS” BY EMMA PERALES, MARLETTE, MI

SC

2021 #MMPAPhotoContest: • 127 entries • 59 photographers • 727 votes received in People’s Choice Contest • 6 winners

STAFF CHOICE: “NEW LIFE” BY VICKIE RUPPRECHT, VASSAR, MI

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TRANSFORMING DAIRY AT MSU

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TRANSFORMING DAIRY AT MSU

Transforming Dairy at Michigan State University

BY EMILY KITTENDORF

Michigan State University is back in session for the fall semester. The dorms are full, campus busses are running and Anthony Hall is bustling for the first time in over a year.

“T

here was a pretty big effort started a few years ago within the animal science department to re-envision the way that we do things. Where can we reinvest, not just in things, but in people and

expertise?” Dr. Barry Bradford, MSU C. E. Meadows Endowed Chair in Dairy Management and Nutrition said. “This generated some really thoughtful, long-term plans that led into many changes currently underway.”

While COVID-19 affected

As a part of the re-envisioning process, MSU brought stakeholder

many of the day-to-day

advisory groups together from the two colleges most influenced by

happenings at the university, it didn’t slow the momentum of finding – and strengthening – dairy’s place at MSU.

the dairy industry at MSU: the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the College of Veterinary Medicine. As a result, MSU’s dairy program is strengthening and adapting to meet today’s industry’s needs.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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Modernizing the Curriculum “The absolute clearest message from both of those efforts was that we need to put out students who have more handson, boots-on-the-ground experience,” Dr. Bradford said.

Perhaps there is no better person to spearhead the future of dairy at MSU than Dr. Joe Domecq, long-time mentor, advisor and instructor to MSU Ag Tech dairy students and 4-H dairy youth.

Having been at MSU for over 30 years in many roles including coaching dairy judging and dairy challenge teams, and most recently being named MSU Coordinator of Dairy Education, Dr. Domecq has the benefit of recognizing and interpreting the trends of today’s students.

“The type of students that are coming into Ag Tech and animal science or have an interest in dairy today don't have the industry background and practical experiences that they once had 30 years ago,” Dr. Domecq said. “There

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aren’t as many farm kids because there just aren’t as many farms. What we are seeing is a real lack of practical handson experiences and we were hearing it from stakeholders, alumni and former students that recent graduates don’t always know what's going on in a modern dairy operation.”

“

“There aren’t as many farm kids because there just aren’t has as many farms. What we are seeing is a real lack of practical hands-on experiences and we were hearing it from stakeholders, alumni and former students that recent graduates don’t always know what's going on in a modern dairy operation.”

The solution to the problem at hand was to develop a dairy concentration within the animal science major. Students interested in dairy can now pursue dairy focused classes and graduate with dairy mentioned on their diploma. The new concentration also created additional, more advanced dairy-related classes at MSU to complete the curriculum.

“The four-year animal science students are now going to take more hands-on classes and the two-year students that want to transfer to a four-year animal science degree can transfer easily and receive more advanced classes in science and in dairy production,” Dr. Domecq said. “The new curriculum should benefit both groups of students.”

In addition to the changes in curriculum, Dr. Domecq will also now not only be advising the two-year Ag Tech dairy management students, but also the four-year students pursuing the dairy concentration. This change will allow two-year students to transfer more fluidly to pursuing a four-year degree

and 4-year students gain practical insights and guidance into the dairy industry. The modern approach to refreshing the curriculum and servicing today’s students continues to play on MSU’s strengths, but humbly recognizes where improvement can be made.

“I think we have traditionally done a great job teaching students about the science of cows, for example, teaching about amino acids in dairy nutrition or hormones involved in cow reproduction,” Dr. Domecq said. “But if they've never mixed a TMR, understand feeding management, performed artificial insemination or utilized dairy software programs to analyze dairy performance, what good does it do to know about the amino acids and hormones?”

“

“Michigan’s dairy industry won’t be transformed overnight by the addition of these new classes, but the real impact comes when you're doing a better job with training.”

These hands-on classes will ensure that graduates of MSU’s animal science dairy concentration can connect the dots between the science, business and the farm. Dr. Domecq and Dr. Bradford agree that building that connection can be transformational for the dairy industry over time.

“Michigan’s dairy industry won’t be transformed overnight by the addition of these new classes, but the real impact comes when you're doing a better job with training,” Dr. Bradford said.

“Students who understand not just the fundamental science, but also the application of it are going to have a huge impact over their careers and a massive 10-, 20-, 30-year impact.”

Keeping in Touch with the Industry Along with revamping the dairy curriculum, another way to make an impact on Michigan dairy farms is to improve communication between the college and the dairy industry.

“As a college, we have a really vital role in keeping the connection with the industry so that we can communicate the things that we're doing,” Dr. Catherine Ernst, MSU Animal Science Department Chair said. “And it goes both ways because then we can learn where some of the bottlenecks are and what questions the industry needs answered.”

Spearheading the effort to improve the collaboration between MSU experts and influential dairy leaders is Dr. Bradford.

“I consider it my job to know all the people internally that could be of service to dairy farms,” Dr. Bradford said. “And then to get out and really know a lot of people in the industry so that they feel comfortable calling me and sharing what they’re dealing with, and I can help direct them to the right people.”

Dr. Bradford’s connections in the industry led him to revisiting the historical Michigan Dairy Review, a publication overseen by Dr. Dave Beede, published for over a decade.

“One of the things we really tried to do in the last year was to re-envision a more graphic intensive version of the Michigan Dairy Review,” Dr. Bradford said. “Something that has a lot of technical pieces, but also has spotlights on people because it is still a people business. We want people to know who's out there at Michigan State University, and also out there in the industry.”

The refreshed Michigan Dairy Review, now called the Spartan Dairy Newsletter, is mailed, emailed and published online. Going even more digital, MSU dairy resources, events and news is now shared across all major social media platforms. These efforts are part of Dr. Bradford’s goal of moving towards

THE REFRESHED MICHIGAN DAIRY REVIEW, NOW CALLED THE SPARTAN DAIRY NEWSLETTER, IS MAILED, EMAILED AND PUBLISHED ONLINE. GOING EVEN MORE DIGITAL, MSU DAIRY RESOURCES, EVENTS AND NEWS IS NOW SHARED ACROSS ALL MAJOR SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS.

better networking within Michigan’s dairy industry and another result of him listening to feedback from industry members.

“There are some great thinkers out there in the industry and getting their input on how we can better serve them is fantastic,” Dr. Bradford said. “Although very few people take me up on it, I always say that critical feedback is welcomed and actually appreciated.”

Transforming the Future While all of these changes are going to positively impact the industry in due time, Dr. Domecq, Dr. Bradford, Dr. Ernst and the entire College of Agriculture at MSU aren’t done yet.

Transformation takes time and continual tweaking to get it right.

“We will continue to be flexible and dynamic, striving to deliver the best education for students possible while continuing to stay at the cutting edge of research and translating that research into practice through our outreach and extension activities,” Dr. Ernst said. “We are always trying to move that frontier forward, not stay status quo and be transformational.” milk messenger / SEP-OCT 2021

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SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT

James Weber

BY ALLISON STUBY MILLER

MMPA IS COMMITTED TO COOPERATIVE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES THROUGHOUT OUR ENTIRE SUPPLY CHAIN. AT THE FARM LEVEL, MMPA MEMBERS ARE ALSO ON A SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY. WE’RE

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I

n 2014, James Weber (District 7, Vassar, MI) came

home to his family’s former dairy farm with 130 Jersey cows and a strong drive to do better. Through strategic

management and an increased focus on sustainability, he’s not shy of trying new things or making incremental changes.

CHECKING IN WITH A HANDFUL OF MEMBER

“The thing I’m most proud of is that we are continuing to chase sustainability,” he

FARMERS LEADING THE CHARGE WITH THIS

said. “It’s a project that’s never really done—we always try to find the next thing

SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT SERIES.

that we have made, but just know that there is a lot more to go.”

that can help us improve. We can look back and be proud of the accomplishments

FARM

HERD

LAND

Weber Family Dairy Vassar, MI

200 milking, 400 total

800 acres of corn, soybeans, dry beans and alfalfa

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“

“The thing I’m most proud of

the parlor, providing drinking water to

dirt. We’re looking more now into the

the herd or watering their fields.

species we put on that land so we can

To source the bedding in a newly

look at different mixes that will help

constructed freestall barn, Weber uses

scavenge and hold nutrients available

composted-bedded pack, compost

for the next crop.”

system with sawdust along with

The farm has a Comprehensive Nutrient

cow manure and urine.The pack

Management Plan, or CNMP, to ensure

that’s never really done—we

reduces costs and recycles manure

they’re making the best use of nutrients

always try to find the next

while allowing him to not use sand,

to maintain soil health. In addition,

a depleting natural resource, in his

Weber says they conduct soil testing

freestalls. His goal is to add a long-term

every three years on all their land and

manure storage that’s a compost facility.

maintain 80 acres of woods.

Through MMPA’s Cover Crop Project,

A member of MMPA’s Farmer

Weber started planting cover crops, in

Sustainability Advisory Committee,

mixes of three to seven species, last fall.

Weber meets with fellow members,

“This year we are going to be covering

MMPA staff and customers to discuss

is that we are continuing to chase sustainability. It’s a project

thing that can help us improve.

We can look back and be proud of the accomplishments that we have made, but just know that there is a lot more to go.”

about 70 percent of our land with cover crops so some will never see bare

When Weber built the barn housing his milking parlor, he topped it with 200 kilowatt solar panels, used to offset around half of the dairy’s energy costs.

He has continued to add a few extra tools to increase energy efficiency. “Any way that we are able to capture energy efficiency if it’s something that has a good return on investment, we go after it,” he said.

A recent addition is a variable speed

“

current on-farm sustainability initiatives. He wants consumers to be aware of the progress farmers have made and are continuing to work on.

“This year we are going to be

“A lot of famers are continually trying to do better with the natural resources

covering about 70% of our land

that public has such a high priority on,

with cover crops so some will

whether that be air, water or land itself.

never see bare dirt.”

That’s front and center for just about every farmer.”

KEYWORDS

pump and vacuum controlled pump to

Composting: THE PROCESS OF COMPOSTING IS A CONTROLLED DECOMPOSITION

the milking equipment which reduces

OF MANURE, CROP RESIDUE, BEDDING, OR OTHER ORGANIC MATTER BY MICRO-

energy consumption. In addition to converting to 100 percent LED lighting,

ORGANISMS IN THE PRESENCE OF OXYGEN. THE END PRODUCT IS A NUTRIENTSTABLE PRODUCT.

Weber installed thermostats on the fans

Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP): A TOTAL PLANNING

used to cool the herd, which both helps

TOOL THAT DETAILS THE ANIMAL PRODUCTION RELATED ACTIVITIES FOR A

with cow comfort and ensures the fans only run when they are needed. The

SPECIFIC FARMING OPERATION. A CNMP DESCRIBES A FARM'S PRODUCTION PRACTICES, AS WELL AS THE EQUIPMENT AND STRUCTURE(S) USED. IT COMBINES CONSERVATION PRACTICES WITH MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES TO CREATE A SYSTEM

farm also uses a plate cooler to recycle

THAT ADDRESSES ANIMAL PRODUCTION OPERATIONS, FROM FEED INPUTS TO THE

the water used to cool down milk so it

UTILIZATION OF ANIMAL MANURE.

can be repurposed when washing out

VERIFICATIONS

MMPA SUSTAINABILITY MISSION

MMPA Sustainability Survey, Certified Nutrient Management Plan, Biodiversity Action Plan, Farmers Assuring Responsible Management Animal Care

To continually strive for a more sustainable future for our community, our environment, our economy’s health, and for the lives and world around us.

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OYDC CONFERENCE

PICTURED ABOVE, BACK ROW (L-R): DR. BARRY BRADFORD, NOLAN WEIBER, BRENT SIMON, KIP SIEGLER, ZACH PIXLEY AND AARON GASPER. FRONT ROW (L-R): LISA LARSEN, EMILY SIMON AND ROCHELLE SIEGLER.

2021 Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators Gather for Annual Conference

T

he 2021 MMPA Outstanding Young

Kip and Rochelle Siegler of Imlay City, Michigan, were

Dairy Cooperator (OYDC) finalists

selected as the winning OYDCs, while Nolan Wieber of

gathered for an outdoor meeting

Rochelle milk 200 cows and farm 1,700 acres at Siegler

hosted by 2020 OYDC Brent and Emily Simon at their farm in Westphalia, Michigan

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Pompeii, Michigan was chosen as runner-up. Kip and Dairy Farm. They are members of the Mid-Thumb Local in District 8. Selection for the 2022 OYDC program will begin this winter.

on August 10. The purpose of the conference

The winning and runners-up OYDCs were selected by a

is to broaden younger members’ knowledge of

panel of judges: Aaron Gasper, MMPA director-at-large;

MMPA and foster leadership skills.

Meadows Chair in Dairy Science at Michigan State University.

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Lisa Larsen, former OYDC; and Dr. Barry Bradford, Clint

2021 OYDC Finalists Jason and Audrey Bischoff, Tawas City, Michigan Adam and Charlie Freis, Wallace, Michigan Zach Pixley, Nashville, Michigan Daren Rubingh, Ellsworth, Michigan Ryan and Katie Schumacher, Munger, Michigan Kip and Rochelle Siegler, Imlay City, Michigan Nolan Wieber, Pompeii, Michigan

FAQ: What is the OYDC Program?

Since 1950, MMPA has been identifying future leaders through the Young Cooperator and Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator (OYDC) program. The purpose of the program is to strengthen leadership abilities in young farmers, broaden young farmers’ knowledge of milk marketing and MMPA and recognize the abilities and stewardship of our young dairy farmers. Each year, MMPA selects winning and runners-up OYDC to represent the co-op at local and national events.

Focused on you.

Our commitment to producers has never been stronger, and GreenStone is ready to help you succeed in 2021 and beyond. By focusing on the needs of our members, we provide cooperative benefits in addition to the value of our unique financial products and services.

Contact your local team to discover the benefits of membership today.

800-444-FARM

Who can participate?

Anyone between the ages of 21 and 40 who is a member or affiliated with a member farm is eligible to participate in the program. If running as a couple, eligibility is based on the age of the younger spouse. OYDCs can be family or employees of a member and do not have to be “on the contract” or a voting member to be considered.

Traditionally, OYDCs are nominated by their Local. For 2022, MMPA is opening up the application process to allow qualified individuals or couples to apply independently in addition to the traditional selection process. For more information, please contact Jessica Welch (248-474-6672, ext. 303 or jwelch@ mimilk.com).

www.greenstonefcs.com GreenStone FCS is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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2021 OYDC

“LET’S GO!”

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2021 OYDC

KIP & ROCHELLE SIEGLER 2021 OUTSTANDING YOUNG DAIRY COOPERATORS

BY ALLISON STUBY MILLER

milk milk messenger messenger //SEP-OCT SEP-OCT2021 2021

2525

K 2021 OYDC

ip Siegler is pumped up for the day, stepping out

of his house and ready to go.

Through the wide-angle lens of his camera, he’s telling his over 25,000 subscribers on YouTube what’s happening on Siegler Dairy Farm in Imlay City, Michigan.

“Hey, busy day today, we’re going to get some augers, service the silo, we’re going to start chopping if we can,” he said. “It’s going to be a good one, going to be hot. Let’s go!”

The fast-paced video takes you from one chore to the next. From chopping and round baling hay to climbing to the top of a silo, Kip shows his perspective of the day’s work, narrating the action throughout the nearly 15-minute-long video. At 163,691 views to date, it’s the most popular video on the Kip Siegler Farming YouTube channel.

The team behind the channel is Kip and his new wife, Rochelle, MMPA members from the Mid-Thumb Local in District 8. The Sieglers were recently selected as the 2021 MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators (OYDC) by a panel of judges represented by leaders in the Great Lakes dairy industry.

Kip started the YouTube channel a few years ago after seeing his nieces and nephews engrossed in online videos on their smart devices over Christmas.

“I didn’t know what it was. I said, ‘What are you all watching?’ and it was YouTube. So I looked into it and saw there was farming on there. Man, I think I can do that,” he said.

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From there, Kip practiced recording and watching himself for four months. He and Rochelle taught themselves how to edit the videos and got the channel rolling.

“The first one that really went well was when I incorporated Rochelle. We did a crop survey. She was down by the corn and the corn was towering over her. It got 60,000 views just because Rochelle was in it,” he said.

But their most successful videos come from when Kip shows his viewers what he knows best. “The bread-andbutter videos are chopping,” he said.

“It’s because it’s what you know. We know those silos in and out. You’re not grasping for things to say, you’re just doing it.”

Having racked up over 3 million total views on YouTube, their next goal is to one day achieve 100,000 YouTube subscribers.

Having racked up over 3 million total views on YouTube, their next goal is to one day achieve 100,000 YouTube subscribers. While Kip speaks to all people with a close behind-the-scenes view of dairy farming, the channel is

big with middle aged males and older viewers, with 20 percent of viewers in the 65 and up crowd.

“These people, they are big dairy supporters,” he said. “They’re 25,000 strong and they’re hard core about dairy. I’m building strong dairy supporters.”

Though Kip is the internet star, the farm behind the fame is made possible by a partnership between Kip, his dad, Jeff, and his brothers, Greg and Mark.

The farm was started in 1952, making the three brothers the third generation.

As Kip and his brothers came back to work on the farm full time over the years, they’ve made it work by coming together. “Everything just fell into place. You know what each other’s strengths are. The key to that, everyone milks equally and then we play to everyone’s strengths,” he said.

Together, they have grown the farm and today are milking around 200 cows twice a day and have nearly doubled the land farmed to around 1,900 acres.

“We’re just putting up the best quality feed possible, putting everything back into the ground that we take out, so these cows are healthy as possible,” Kip said. “That’s what we’re all about.”

ABOVE: KIP AND ROCHELLE SIEGLER ON THEIR WEDDING DAY, WITH CHILDREN CATHERINE (9), CHLOE (6) AND GRANT (6 MONTHS).

LEFT: A DRONE'S EYE VIEW OF THE SIEGLER'S DAIRY FARM IN IMLAY CITY, MICHIGAN.

“

“We’re just putting up the best quality feed possible, putting everything back into the ground that we take out, so these cows are healthy as possible.

That’s what we’re all about.”

“Every day we have a whole line of things that we want to accomplish, we just get it done. We plan on being here for another 50 years. I think we’re on the right track by having our family here because those are the ones you can rely on. You need someone with a vested interest, someone who sees that they have a future. That it’s not just a job, it’s your lifestyle.”

Kip reiterated what makes a difference on their farm is teamwork. “Nobody puts themselves ahead of anything.

We’re all capable of doing everything.”

When his brother was out for a few months for a health issue, they stepped up. “We had to work nonstop, but we

didn’t bat an eye. We knew he would be back. We stepped up when we needed to step up. The commitment we have, it’s long-term. I hope that we can embed that in the younger generations, that’s the goal.”

While his brother has leaned on him in the past, lately Kip has been able to lean on his brothers. Through the late summer, Kip has been struggling with some health issues and the couple has been prepping for their September 4 wedding. With their positive attitude and their family commitment, they’re making it through challenging times.

Speaking with the Sieglers just days before their wedding, it’s obvious they’re encouraged by one another as they build their new family. Together, they have three children, Catherine (9), Chloe (6) and Grant (6 months).

“I’ve always wanted to be a mom and have a family,” Rochelle said. “The girls, they’re not my daughters, but I treat them like they’re my own. They honestly motivate me. Getting into a relationship with him, I knew what I was taking on. I just try to be a good role model for them and now I have my son. It’s everything I’ve always wanted and now I’m getting it. It was worth the wait.”

Kip says his motivation is Rochelle.

“My life started spiraling upward almost since the day I met her. She’s the one of the most positive people I’ve ever met.

People say that about me, but I’ve got to get it from somewhere too. When you have someone who believes that you can accomplish just about anything, that’s all you need. If you have someone who believes in you that much, then you make it happen,” he said.

And you can expect to see more of this on Kip Siegler Dairy Farming. As Kip has been recovering and the wedding approaches, their YouTube content has shifted to from mostly farming to more family. Kip has kept his viewers up to date with a close personal view of their family life that may be here to stay.

“I like showing the farm, I like inspiring people. Being injured, they’re like, ‘You’ve inspired us so much,’” he said about his YouTube viewers. “But I do need some inspiration right now myself.

It goes both ways. you’re not always going to be up in life, it’s good to stay positive and root people on, because at some point, you’re going to need it yourself.”

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FIVE TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME BORROWERS

FIVE TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME BORROWERS

A

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pplying for a loan can be an overwhelming experience, especially for first-time loan applicants and beginning farmers. To make the entire process easier, it’s helpful to have up-to-date accounting, make use of available resources, and lean on a loan officer.

GreenStone Farm Credit Services provides financial services to the agricultural industry - including short, intermediate and long-term loans, equipment and building leases, life insurance, crop insurance, accounting, payroll and tax services. GreenStone also specializes in residential and country home loans, and provides lending products for the purchase, improvement, construction or refinance of residences along with financing future home sites and recreational land.

Here are five lender-approved tips to help you prepare for the loan application process: 1. Stay organized.

Whether or not you’re in need of a loan, when it comes to operating any business, it’s vital to have updated and reliable recordkeeping. Staying organized year-round allows you to make better decisions for your farm and, when it is time to apply, makes the loan prep work much simpler.

2. Separate farm from home.

Regardless of your operation’s size or location, combining your farm and personal finances can eventually lead to unnecessary confusion and stress - especially during tax time. Even if your farm is located on your primary residence or you’re just starting out, keeping your finances separate will give you a better idea of your operation’s overall performance.

3. Prepare your financials.

5. Be patient.

When applying for any typical loan, you’ll need to provide pay stubs, past W-2s, bank account statements and personal information. The same goes for applying for a farm loan, in addition to having an updated balance sheet or personal financial statement, and a business plan. Keep in mind your business plan should have realistic goals that are within reach, plus reflect your farm’s previous performance or that of similar farms in the area.

The loan application process doesn’t happen overnight, especially for operating and land loans. The closing time for a loan can range from 2-6 weeks and is different for everyone.

Have patience and ask your lender directly what you can expect if time is of the essence.

4. Communicate with your lender.

Once your information is gathered, sit down with your lender to discuss your farm’s goals. Having a strong and open relationship with your lender is crucial to ensure you are both on the same page and that the expectations of your farm align. Your lender is a great resource of information. Having a good relationship with your lender will benefit you down the road as your farm grows and your operation becomes more diversified.

Getting financing for your farm is a detailed process unique to each individual scenario with one common factor: a financial services officer working in partnership with you to help find the best solution. Experts are a great resource who are ready to answer any questions you have. Using the five tips above—and your lender—as a guide will make your experience that much smoother.

To learn more about these financing options and get started with a loan request, visit www.greenstonefcs.com.

SUBMITTED BY: GREENSTONE FCS

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YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

YOUR DAIRY CHECKOFF AT WORK National News

Nearly 95% of the world’s population lives outside the U.S., which is why checkoff works with partners like Domino’s to expand opportunities in untapped categories like pizza. In a new partnership with Alamar Foods Co., which owns 455 Domino’s stores in the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan, checkoff will provide expertise on menu development and marketing to increase U.S. cheese sales.

The Dairy Checkoff podcast has two new episodes.

• One episode focuses on school milk, where Alex Peterson, Missouri dairy farmer and National Dairy Board Chair, and Audrey Donahoe, New York dairy farmer and National Dairy Council chair, host a conversation with a school foodservice director and research expert to take a deeper dive in how school milk is sourced and served to millions of students. Conversation topics include the creative approaches the checkoff is taking to ensure school milk is appealing to the next generation of dairy consumers.

• In the latest episode Dairy farmer hosts Carrie Mess of Wisconsin and Jenni Tilton-Flood of Maine are joined by Jon Moss from Pizza Ranch and Paul Ziemnisky of Dairy Management, Inc. to talk about how creative checkoff partnerships are driving the pizza category forward. Despite the pandemic, pizza sales grew in 2020 as consumers increasingly stayed home and ordered in more frequently.

• Visit www.dairycheckoffpodcast.com or on your favorite podcast platform to find both new episodes.

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“Rod’s Kitchen” Activation In partnership with the Indianapolis Colts, and our new player ambassador, Rodrigo Blakenship, we’ve created the “Rod’s Kitchen” campaign. Each month we will work with the Colts creative team to push out one of these graphics, highlighting one of Rodrigo’s favorite dairy foods/products.

These will align with themed months such as Winners Drink Milk (May), National Dairy Month (June), National Ice Cream Month (July), The Indiana State Fair (August) and more!

Indiana Dairy Featured in International Magazine The Indiana Cheese Trail has caught the attention of one of the largest and most established magazines in American cuisine—“Food and Wine”. With a readership of over 7 million and a website that sees 27 million page views a month, this article puts Indiana dairy farms and cheesemakers on the map. The highly favorable review of Indiana cheeses also shines a light on family farms, giving readers a closer connection to dairy foods and families.

Dietetics Interns Visit the Farm August kicks off many school programs, including university programs in Dietetics and Nutrition. Students from Purdue University, Indiana State University, and IUPUI joined their professors and other community thought leaders at Poland Dairy in Boswell, Indiana. The farm features both a rotary parlor and robotic milkers, giving visitors a unique view of the different types of dairy production. Students were interested to learn about the cow comfort and care that takes place on the farm. The most conversation was generated around cow diets and how they relate to human

nutrition. All left with a confidence to share the benefits of dairy and a new appreciation for the hard work and dedication of dairy farmers. These students are an important group to connect with due to their future leadership potential and connection to decide healthy diets for the general public.

National Ice Cream Month Celebrations July is celebrated as National Ice Cream Month across the country. Your state checkoff took the opportunity to showcase this delicious dairy product while connecting with the public. Reminding people of fond memories and sharing exciting food ideas are important strategies when building trust in dairy foods.

In Indiana, our annual ice cream social was held as a drive-thru event at Victory Field, home of the Indianapolis Indians baseball team. Working with the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, we raised $6000 for the organization and connected Indiana dairy farmers with Indiana communities.

In Michigan, TV personality and longtime friend of Milk Means More, spent a weekend driving around West Michigan to surprise consumers at 11 local shops with ice cream treats. Her adventures were documented on social media and had over 13K impressions.

UNITED DAIRY INDUSTRY OF MICHIGAN

UDIM is Added to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Retail Training Curriculum The Grocery Store Tour Training program created by UDIM Nutrition Outreach staff will be included in an Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics continuing education training program focused on consumers and the retail setting, to be released late fall 2021. There are more than 100,000 registered dietitians in the United States and Michigan is home to approximately 6,000.

UDIM Grant Helps Homeless Students in Detroit The Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) Office of Homeless and Foster Care helps to identify and support homeless youth so each student can successfully participate in the learning environment. Connected by our partners at Project Healthy Schools, the office reached out to UDIM and identified a need to provide students with nutritious foods in urgent cases such as loss of housing.

Through our pantry grant program, UDIM awarded DPSCD a cooler to keep milk and cheese snacks cold and safe to give to students who arrive at their office.

Moolah for Schools Supports 65 School Districts During the 20202021 School Year The Moolah for Schools Grant program kicked off in April 2020 just as the world was shutting down and our school food service teams worked non-stop to ensure that every student had access to nutritious meals, including milk. Schools were in need of equipment supporting meal distribution at the curb, via a bus or eventually in a classroom. The requests included transport carts of all shapes and sizes and small coolers to get meals from the cafeteria to the curb as well as milk coolers and mobile food carts. The program awarded equipment to 65 school districts during the 2020-2021 school year.

Street Hockey in the D Milk Means More partnered with the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Parks and Recreation for the official launch of their Street Hockey in the D summer series at Patton Memorial Center, a recurring summer feeding site for the Detroit youth community. The free six-week street hockey clinics will provide over 100 Detroit youth aged 6-14 with an opportunity to learn the basics of hockey without the added cost of skates and equipment.

For its launch, Milk Means More provided a snack station where kids were able to spin our prize wheel to learn more about dairy’s nutritional benefits on physical activity, snack on some cheese sticks, and meet Mootilda. The event wrapped up with the Detroit Red Wings surprising one lucky participant with the news they’ve been chosen to help announce the Detroit Red Wings first round selection during the 2021 NHL Draft. Everyone celebrated with a final scrimmage showcasing all the skills they had just learned, including goalie Mootilda.

Crisis Content Corner - Protecting the Next Generation Protecting the safety of everyone on the farm requires constant vigilance, especially with younger family members around. Cargill Safety Champion Ann Mesman suggests being aware of the 3 main danger areas, and utilizing these helpful tips to help prevent unnecessary loss.

1. Equipment: Being entangled, rolled/ran over, or crushed by a large piece of machinery.

Never allow extra riders, especially children who can be easily thrown out by bumps Never assume a driver sees you Teach children to maintain safe distances, regardless if equipment is on or off 2. Falling: Ag work often requires climbing on top of machinery, bins, silos and buildings.

Falling as little as 3 feet can cause injury.

Maintain ladders and safety cages Properly position and spot portable ladders Utilize fall harnesses when appropriate Have a spotter 3. Drowning/Suffocation: Manure lagoons, ponds, and wells are common sites for on-farm drowning. Fencing off these areas can help keep kids from falling in. Silage and grain piles can collapse quickly, and without warning. The gases they produce can also cause drowsiness, unconsciousness and even death.

Ventilate silos before entering - Limiting height to what equipment can deface Always have a second person nearby - Cut vertical face with a 10 degree tilt away For further information, or to set up a planning meeting for your farm, contact your state promotion staff below.

Michigan: Jolene Griffin - jolene@milkmeansmore.org, 224-567-189 Indiana: Allie Rieth - rieth@winnersdrinkmilk.com, 317-443-2296

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FREELINERS AND CLASSIFIEDS

TO SUBMIT FREELINERS AND CLASSIFIED ADS, CONTACT MMPA VIA EMAIL AT MESSENGER@MIMILK.COM OR VISIT MIMILK.COM/FREELINER-CLASSIFIED.

Freeliners

FOR SALE: 2019 SV280 CASE SKID STEER with a cab, HVAC, 500 hours, EH controls, high flow package, heavy duty rear door, new tires, four-year inclusive warranty. $38,000 or $607 monthly lease payment.

Call 989-493-1663.

Freeliners 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.

FOR SALE: 2009 NEW HOLLAND H7450 DISCBINE, drawbar swivel hitch, good rolls, one owner, $15,300. Call 989-305-2659.

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

FOR SALE: WEAVER DOUBLE 8 HERRINGBONE STAINLESS STEEL STALLS - Like new condition, $3,000. Call Dan at 810-241-8999.

• 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 rate.

• Freeliners must be received by the 10th of the month

For Sale

FOR SALE: LELY A3 NEXT ROBOT - $55,000. Chisel Plow 9 shanks $4,000. Milk Compressors 5 horse 2012 models 1,000 each. Call 989-313-7323.

Wanted WANTED: DELAVAL SINGLE PULSATION PULSATOR bodies for pipeline system. Call 616-406-5611.

FOR SALE: CUBE COOLER & CAL-RESTORE TANK. Call 810-724-8825.

WANTED: side wall tires for bumper cover and a sand shooter to bed freestalls. Call Marvin at 260768-3029 ex. 1.

FOR SALE: SPRINGING DAIRY HEIFERS – DHIA records available. Call 810-724-8825.

WANTED: 8- or 10-foot pull type combine in fair condition. Leave a message at 260-768-7363 ext. 1.

Classifieds Classifieds Policy Cost for classifieds is $25 for the first 35 words and then $5 for each additional word. Payment due with order. All ads must be received by the 10th of the month preceding desired month of publication. MMPA neither sponsors nor endorses products or services advertised in the Milk Messenger.

WANTED: 100-gallon bulk milk cooler.

Call 765-455-8664.

BARN WHITE WASHING AND CLEANING WITH HIGH PRESSURE AIR: Serving all Michigan and Indiana.

Miller Spray Service, Inc. 574-825-9776.

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.

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

We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. 3 operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. since 1987.

Call 1-800-365-3361.

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 and old concrete, fast service.

Call for your below pricing 989-635-1494.

LEGENDAIRY. No bull.

Co-Products Menu

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!

Non-GMO

products available

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

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FOR SALE: NEW & USED MILK TANKS. We stock all sizes, makes, models. Special prices to co-op members, corporate & private farms. Contact us anytime day or night. Special on 2000 gal. Muellers for $13,900 & up. 2700 & 4000 gal. Muellers call for quote. 800-558-0112.

STRAW & DRY HAY (large & small bales). Feed Oats, Feed Barley and Corn Silage. Delivery Available.

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

ALFALFA HAYLAGE (excellent & fair grades) & CORN SILAGE. Call 989-723-1886 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.

HOOF TRIMMING - 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. Also doing fly control and cement grooving. Gibson Hoof Care (Tom) 989-239-6843.

SEED CORN - "Minnesota 13" Open Pollinated 85 Day Yellow Field Corn Seed. High Protein, High Yield, High Fat, Fast Drydown. Great Digestibility! 80,000 graded seeds $100. JanksSeeds.com. Call 989-284-5052.

Concrete Grooving and Texturing

Colostrum Replacers

Call: 716-353-1137

A necessity to a newborn’s health and vitality, nutrient rich colostrum provides calves with antibodies and immunoglobulins (IgG) during the first hours of life, leaving a lasting impact on long term health and performance. Many producers find it necessary to use a colostrum replacer when they are faced with poor sanitation situations, low quality maternal colostrum, dangerous levels of bacteria numbers in maternal colostrum and the possibility of Johne’s disease in the herd. The MMPA Farm Supply Store stocks three options for your colostrum needs.

Jeff Brisky - Owner

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation

Land O’ Lakes Colostrum Replacement STOCK #: 1011

MEMBER PRICE: $29.37/ 16.6OZ PACKAGE

Land O’ Lakes Colostrum Replacement is licensed by the USDA as a single dose replacement for maternal colostrum. It provides 100 grams or more of IgG in 16.6 ounces of powder and is made from natural bovine colostrum. It should be mixed using warm water (120 °F) and can be stored refrigerated for up to 48 hours. If not used within 48 hours, it can be frozen for future use.

Ultra Start 150 Colostrum Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications)

1. Publication Title

2. Publication Number

0 0 2 6

Milk Messenger 4. Issue Frequency

_

3. Filing Date

September 2021

2 3 1 5

5. Number of Issues Published Annually

6

Bimonthly

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Not printer) (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4 ®)

6. Annual Subscription Price

$5.00

STOCK # 1022

MEMBER PRICE: $28.80/ 12.3OZ PACKAGE

Ultra Start 150 colostrum replacers contain a minimum of 150 grams of bovine globulin protein per calf feeding. It is formulated with vitamins and minerals, mixes easily, and is sourced from Grade A dairy farms in the USA.

Contact Person

Allison Miller

41310 Bridge Street, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002

Telephone (Include area code)

248-474-6672

8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher (Not printer)

41310 Bridge Street, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002

Ultra Start 150 Plus Colostrum STOCK# 1021

9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor (Do not leave blank) Publisher (Name and complete mailing address)

Michigan Milk Producers Association, 41310 Bridge Street, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002 Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

Allison Miller, 41310 Bridge Street, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002 Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

MEMBER PRICE: $35.57/ 12.3 OZ PACKAGE

Ultra Start 150 Plus colostrum replacer also contains 150 grams of bovine globulin protein but also includes “First Defense Technology” (FDT).

FDT is a veterinary biologic with guaranteed levels of antibody immunity against K99+, E. coli and coronavirus. It is the only colostrum replacer on the market with First Defense Technology!

Sheila Burkhardt, 41310 Bridge Street, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002 10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, give the names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.)

Complete Mailing Address Full Name

Michigan Milk Producers Association

41310 Bridge Street, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002

11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities. If none, check box None Full Name

THREE WAYS TO ORDER MMPA MERCHANDISE FROM THE FARM SUPPLY STORE

Complete Mailing Address

1 Order online at www.mimilk.com/farm-supply-store 12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates) (Check one) The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months Has Changed During Preceding 12 Months (Publisher must submit explanation of change with this statement) PS 3526, August 13. Form Publication Title 2012 (Page 1 of 3 (Instructions Page 3)) PSN: 7530-01-000-9931

Milk Messenger

PRIVACY NOTICE: ourfor privacy policyData on www.usps.com.

14. IssueSee Date Circulation Below

15. Extent and Nature of Circulation

Average No. Copies No. Copies of Single Each Issue During Issue Published Preceding 12 Months Nearest to Filing Date

a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run) (1)

Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies)

b. Paid Circulation (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies) (By Mail and Outside Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, (3) the Mail) Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS® (4)

Paid Distribution Class Mail®)

d. Free or (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies included on PS Form 3541 Nominal Rate Distribution (2) Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541 (By Mail and Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (3) Outside (e.g., First-Class Mail) the Mail)

e.

16.

2,537

2,537

1,221

1,221

1,147

1,147

915

915

225

225

4

4

3 Fax in your order: 989-317-8372

by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g., First-

c. Total Paid Distribution (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4))

(4)

September/October 2021

2 Call in your order: Main Line: 989-317-8370 Toll Free: 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi): 800-572-5824 then dial 2

Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means)

Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3) and (4))

f.

Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e)

g.

Copies not Distributed (See Instructions to Publishers #4 (page #3))

h.

Total (Sum of 15f and g)

i.

Percent Paid (15c divided by 15f times 100)

1,140

1,140

2,287

2,287

2,537

2,537

250

50%

50%

Service Message Center: 1-800-392-3392 Service Representatives:

Publication not required.

in the ________________________ issue of this publication.

18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner

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

17. Publication of Statement of Ownership

September/October 2020

These are SERVICE personnel only. Order your supplies through your hauler.

250

Total circulation includes electronic copies. Report circulation on PS Form 3526-X worksheet.

If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed

CHEMICAL, SANITIZER AND TEAT DIP CONTACTS

Date

9/9/2021 Allison Miller, Editor I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

» Pat Mitchell – 517-403-0928 - 7273 N. Rollin Hwy., Addison, MI 49220 » Jason Wolfe – 540-553-5755 - 1890 Canter Drive, Riner, VA 24149

PS Form 3526, August 2012 (Page 2 of 3)

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MMPA STAFF

MMPA Field Staff

Novi Headquarters

Dean Letter, Newaygo, Member Services Director.................. 231-679-0337

Main Office

Steve Lehman, Ithaca, Raw Milk Compliance.............................989-330-1638

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

Sarah Michalek, Dewitt, Sustainability Supervisor...................248-305-0537 Ben Chapin, Remus, Field Services Manager........................... 989-289-0731 Lindsay Green, East Lansing, Animal Care /Sustainability ......989-488-8159 Christy Dinsmoore, Vassar, Supervisor....................................248-513-7920 Frank Brazeau, Oconto, WI......................................................... 906-250-0337 Lyndsay Earl, Ludington, Animal Care.......................................231-519-2455 Deb Gingrich, Leroy, Animal Care/Sustainability......................248-520-3580 Courtney Gordon, Mt. Pleasant...................................................248-756-2062 Laura Gucwa, Bad Axe.................................................................248-826-6294 Ashley Herriman, Herron............................................................269-245-6632 Dave Brady, Grass Lake, Supervisor.........................................517-937-9061 Rachel Brown, Charlotte............................................................. 248-826-7243 Alyssa DeWitt, Elkhart, IN...........................................................269-967-7351 Brandon Ewers, Coldwater, Sustainability.................................231-414-4539 Joe Packard, Manchester, Animal Care......................................248-520-3481 Brittni Tucker, Eagle.....................................................................248-880-3785

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

Farm Supply - Mt. Pleasant Supervisor: Duane Farmer, Mt. Pleasant

President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Diglio.......................................................................................ext. 202 Member and Government Relations Sheila Burkhardt...........................................................................ext. 208 Management Information Systems Andrew Caldwell...........................................................................ext. 304 Chief Financial Officer Tom Downey..................................................................................ext. 240 Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula.................................................................................. ext. 219 Quality Sudeep Jain...................................................................................ext. 249 Member Services Emily Keranen...............................................................................ext. 203 Human Resources Kelly Kerrigan................................................................................ ext. 301 Sales and Supply Chain Judy Lofgren................................................................................. ext. 301 Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt........................................................................... ext. 333 Operations Darren Standorf....................................................................248-321-3656 Communications Allison Stuby Miller.......................................................................ext. 296 Emily Kittendorf............................................................................ext. 234 Corporate Controller Jeannie Strain................................................................................ ext. 311 Member Relations Jessica Welch................................................................................ext. 303

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, Mt. Pleasant................................................. 989-289-9686 Farm Supply Sales Representative

Jake Riley, Mt. Pleasant....................................................... 248-912-5070

Manufacturing Plants Constantine, Michigan Dave Davis, Plant Manager...................................................269-435-2835

Ovid, Michigan Mike Hedlund, Plant Manager............................................... 989-834-2221 Middlebury Cheese Company, Middlebury, Indiana Bela Sandor, Plant Manager...................................................574-825-9511

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

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.

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Board of Directors Officers Doug Chapin, Board Chairman Tony Jandernoa Board Vice Chairman Eric Frahm, Treasurer Tom Downey, Assistant Treasurer Joe Diglio, President and CEO Sheila Burkhardt, Secretary Todd Hoppe, General Counsel Directors-At-Large Carlton Evans, Litchfield 517-398-0629 Aaron Gasper, Lowell 616-291-4092 Bruce Lewis, Jonesville 517-869-2877 Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453 Kris Wardin, St. Johns 989-640-9420 District Directors 1 Brian Preston Quincy 517-376-1350 2 Tim Hood Paw Paw 269-657-5771 3 Bill Stakenas Freesoil 231-425-6913 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

MEMBER MOMENT

Submit your Member Moment to messenger@mimilk.com

The patina of summer fades away ushered in by tractors and grey.

In the fields the crops are aging, farmers at work see the season fading.

Anticipation builds for the work to be done, but for now we enjoy the summer sun.

PHOTO BY: FREDA DIEMER, MCBAIN, MICHIGAN

milk messenger / SEP-OCT 2021

35

P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376

Shop online for everything your farm needs to make high quality milk. Take 5% off your first online order when you use promo code

Shop online at www.mimilk.com/farm-supply-store.

WELCOME at checkout.