Michigan Milk Messenger: March 2019

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. 101 | ISSUE 9 | MARCH 2019

ULTRAMOTIVATED EXPANSION INCREASES CONSTANTINE DAILY CAPACITY BY 1.3 MILLION POUNDS OF MILK (PAGE 16)

mimilk.com

MICHIGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION 1996 Gover Parkway Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

American Farm Products 1382 Industrial Drive, Suite 4 Saline, MI 48176

989.317.8370 mimilk.com

Toll Free: 800.624.7530 Fax: 734.485.4343

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Source E® should be fed 2-3 times the first day and 2 times on the second day. Milk and milk replacer feedings should continue unless advised by a veterinarian.

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MARCH 2019 FEATURES 16 |

EXPANSION INCREASES CONSTANTINE DAILY CAPACITY BY 1.3 MILLION POUNDS OF MILK Guided by the board of directors, the MMPA team completed a 7,500 addition to make new value added products in

On the Cover The Constantine dairy plant added ultra-filtered milk processing to its

Constantine. With an accelerated timeframe, construction was completed in six months and the new project fits in line with MMPA’s strategy.

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Michigan youth gathered at the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference for leadership training and commencing a year of

product mix in latest

dairy promotion and outreach. Read more about the program and the 2018 scholarship winners.

expansion. Learn more on page 16.

MICHIGAN DAIRY AMBASSADOR PROGRAM: SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS AND A LOOK AHEAD

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MAKING EMPLOYEES VALUED PARTNERS IN YOUR DAIRY BUSINESS Phil Durst of Michigan State University Extension, along with colleagues, Stan Moore and Martin Manual share how farms can transform their productivity of their farming operations by looking at their employee management during the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference.

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 1,600 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

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CONTENTS 6

MMPA MATTERS

“I enjoy the satisfaction of providing

Optimism in the face of adversity

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a quality food product to consumers QUALITY WATCH

“How can members make the most of the merchandise program?”

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NEWS & VIEWS

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LEGISLATIVE WATCH

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MICHIGAN ALLIANCE FOR ANIMAL AGRICULTURE TO ADDRESS INDUSTRY RESEARCH AND OUTREACH NEEDS MEET THE 2019 DIRECTOR AT-LARGE NOMINEES

and educating our community about dairy farming.”

— REBECCA BAHRMAN (PAGE 24)

DEPARTMENTS 26 POLICIES 27

QUALITY PREMIUMS

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FREELINERS & CLASSIFIEDS

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MERCHANDISE REPORT MARKET REPORT / DISTRICT MEETINGS

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OYDC FINALIST SPOTLIGHT

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YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

31 STAFF

MMPA Core Values: » Quality » Integrity » Progress » Leadership » Community Managing Editor................................................ Sheila Burkhardt Editors.............................. Allison Stuby Miller, Krista Schrock Advertising Manager......................................Nancy Muszynski Circulation..................................................................................... 2,609 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.

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MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

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MMPA MATTERS

Optimism in the face of adversity

BY KEN NOBIS, MMPA PRESIDENT

I’ve heard it said many, many times that farmers are among the most optimistic people in the world. Our optimism has been tested in the past few years, but I think our reputation holds up, even in the face of adversity. With the spring season right around the corner, that optimism gets a boost with longer days, more peeks at the sun and warmer weather. We would like to put not only the past winter behind us, but also four years of cloudy dairy economics. Will this spring see our basic optimistic nature rewarded with a turn-around in dairy economics? MAYBE, just maybe, we will see some relief in 2019.

“Will this spring see our basic optimistic nature rewarded with a turnaround in dairy economics?

MAYBE, just maybe, we will see some relief in 2019.”

Milk production among the European Union, United States, New Zealand, Australia and Argentina (the top five dairy exporters) is lower year-over-year for the first time in almost two years. If that trend continues, we should see increased price strength in the coming months.

Global milk production, particularly in the European Union after they removed their quotas effective April 1, 2015, weighs heavily on U.S. prices. We have no control over how much milk is produced globally and the effect that has on our domestic milk prices.

The year after the E.U. removed quotas, they purchased and stored over 400 million metric tons of milk powder, referred to as intervention stocks. That excess powder has been an effective deterrent to higher milk prices everywhere. The good news is the supply of powder is finally working its way out of the system, which should mean some price strength, probably by mid-summer.

A highlight for the dairy industry was the signing of the Farm Bill by the President with overwhelming support of Congress. The next step is for USDA to implement the programs in the Bill. The Senate and House Agriculture Committees will work with USDA to insure the implementation moves ahead as rapidly as possible. Various groups, in our case National Milk Producers Federation, will work with USDA to monitor portions of the Bill. Thirty-five days were lost in that process during the government shutdown; however, the Farm Bill will be retroactive to January first. Every assessment I have seen indicates that dairy producers will have a far superior safety net than the 2014 Farm Bill turned out to provide.

Members attended informational and local meetings throughout the winter months, where MMPA explained methods that have been put in place to help meet challenges.

Members learned how MMPA milks as much value as possible out of the system and puts it in the hands of our members keeping in mind, however, that it is utterly impossible to control every factor that affects the value of dairy products The future is a little brighter for dairy. That doesn’t mean there aren’t challenges ahead, a major one related to trade issues that haven’t been resolved. We will continue to work with our partners to bring about a successful outcome for our industry in all trade – and other – issues. MMPA continuously adapts to meet the mission of “marketing our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.”

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

FOCUSED.UNITED. UNITED. STRONGER. FOCUSED. STRONGER.

103RD ANNUAL STATE DELEGATE MEETING

ON THE AGENDA: • Consideration of policy statements and resolutions

• Election of two director- at-large positions on the MMPA Board of Directors

• Recognition of MMPA’s 35- and 50-year members

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019 Registration begins at 9 a.m.

Meeting called to order promptly at 10 a.m.

LANSING CENTER 333 E. Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933

• Presentation of Valued Partner award

• Announcement of MMPA Quality Award recipient

• Introduction of the MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators (OYDC)

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 248-474-6672, EXT. 202.

MIMILK.COM/ANNUAL-MEETING-2019

#MMPA19

QUALITY WATCH

How can members make the most of the merchandise program?

Duane Farmer

Drew Rupprecht

Scott Smith

Merchandise Program Supervisor

Thistle Dew Dairy

Milk Hauler

My farm takes part in the monthly direct farm delivery program, and appreciate the variety of products, ease of ordering, monthly direct farm delivery and patronage program.

We appreciate how easy it is to order and how helpful both the field and warehouse staff are when identifying the products best for our operation.

Since I started hauling milk thirty years ago, I have been offering MMPA merchandise program deliveries. As a milk hauler, I serve as a middle man between the merchandise warehouse and my farms. I hold a small inventory of a wide assortment of cleaners, teat dips, brushes, inflations and various small parts that my farms may need so I can deliver them in a timely manner upon request then they are billed through the program.

Through a recent survey, we learned that some of our members were either unaware that MMPA had a Merchandise Program or how to use it. Many do not know what products are available or are uncertain on how to have them delivered.

The merchandise warehouse carries a large variety of products to help our members operate their dairy farms.

Products such as CIP cleaners, manual cleaners and teat dips are available.

Udder prep towels, milk filters, antibiotic test kits, inflations and milk replacer can also be purchased through the merchandise program.

In addition to items we routinely stock, we can source many specialty items through our vendors.

There are several ordering and receiving options for MMPA members. Please contact us at the warehouse for all your ordering and delivery options.

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

The direct delivery option of the Member Merchandise Program as a major convenience for our farm.

I appreciate that we don’t have to worry about making time for special trips for supplies or wondering if the order we placed online will be back ordered or delivered in a timely manner.

This program offers a wide variety of products, useful in many aspects of our daily activities around the farm from calf care products to milk quality tools to equipment cleaning and sanitizing chemicals and beyond.

I really enjoy helping offer this service to my farms because I think it is a great service especially to smaller farms. My farms that take advantage of the MMPA merchandise program can order supplies in quantities they need rather than in bulk or planning several months ahead to ensure they don’t run out of anything before their next delivery.

NEW FOR 2019!

SIGN UP NOW FOR DAIRY CARE ACADEMY

What is Dairy Care Academy?

Dairy Care Academy is a new FREE MMPA program to help farms meet training requirements for the F.A.R.M. program.

The interactive, day-long training will include three sessions covering milking practices, dairy stockmanship and calf care.

Learn more at mimilk.com/dairy-care-academy Contact Marianne Gasiewski at 248-442-7597 or gasiewski@mimilk.com

March 12:

Eddie G’s, 6485 W. Marlette Road, Marlette

March 20:

Litchfield Regional Training Center, 181 Simpson Drive, Litchfield

April 3:

Mecosta County Building, 14485 Northland Drive, Big Rapids

April 9:

George N. Fletcher Public Library, 211 N. 1st. Avenue, Alpena

Registration at 9:30 a.m. All trainings are from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and include lunch.

NEWS & VIEWS

Correction Congratulations to Brian Wenkel of Standish, Michigan, a Silver National Dairy Quality Award winner. Wenkel was mistakenly left off the list of winners published in the February issue of the Michigan Milk Messenger.

We apologize for the error.

January milk prices up from last year The USDA reported that January’s Class III price is $13.96 per hundredweight, up $0.18 from December. The Class IV price was $0.39/cwt. higher than last month’s price at $15.48.

Producers scoring 95 percent or higher on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check ratings Robert Paidl Sherwin Wilson Freis Dairy LLC Getz-Milk Dairy LLC Kraniak Brothers

Upcoming Events

MMPA submits letter to FDA regarding dairy product labeling MMPA sent a letter to the FDA on behalf of the membership expressing the dissatisfaction with the allowance of plant-based beverages and foods to be marketed as equitable dairy alternatives by using words like “milk” in their names. The letter was submitted as part of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s public comment period regarding whether the agency should restrict the use of dairy terms on plant-based imitators.

GIVE US YOUR BEST SHOT FOR THE SECOND ANNUAL MMPA PHOTO CONTEST Send us your photos that capture the essence of our cooperative and the dairy farm lifestyle. Submit high resolution photos now through July 1, 2019.

Three winners will be selected and win prizes including a $100 certificate to the member merchandise program and publication in the Michigan Milk Messenger. In addition, this year a ‘People’s Choice’ winner will be selected.

March 12 Dairy Care Academy, Marlette

March 13 Resolutions Committee Meeting, Lansing

March 14 103rd Annual State Delegate Meeting, Lansing

March 27-28 Young Cooperator Tour

April 9-10 Indiana Milk Quality Conference, Plymouth, IN

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MESSENGER MESSENGER | MARCH | MARCH 2019 2019

For more information, visit: www.mimilk.com/photo-contest or contact Krista Schrock at kschrock@mimilk.com

2019 Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship deadline is May 17, 2019 Since 2000, the Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund (MYLSF) has awarded $533,000 in scholarships and educational awards to outstanding youth who have exhibited at the premier livestock events in the state of Michigan.

In 2019, a select number of applicants may be offered an opportunity to be interviewed, at the discretion of the MYLSF, prior to the Michigan Livestock Expo Sale-Abration event for larger scholarship awards up to $5,000.

The 2018 $3,000 general scholarship winners were Bradford Chapman of South Rockwood and Caitlin Henne of Eaton Rapids. The 2018 $2,500 scholarship winner was Brady Littlefield of Burr Oak. The 2018 $2,000 general scholarship winners were Lydia AcMoody of Coldwater and Kristen Burkhardt of Fowlerville.

The 2018 $1,500 general scholarship winners were Payton Hines of Quincy, Alexandria Schut of Belding and Kylie Slavik of Ashley. The 2018 $1,000 scholarships winners were Morgan Bolinger of Owosso, Mariah Jansen of Sturgis, Morgan Louma of East Leroy, Laken Claire Polega of Unionville, Nathan Scoville of Laingsburg and Renee Souva of Bronson. The 2018 $500 scholarships winners were Lauren Bickel of North Branch, Miriah Dersham of St. Johns, Hannah Dutcher of Owosso, Jessica Nash of Elsie, Madalyn Stewart of Charlotte and Abigail Walkowe of Manchester. A 2018 statewide $1,000 scholarship was awarded to McKenzie Chapman of Bellevue.

Applications and qualification requirements for the MYLSF and the statewide scholarship can be obtained at www.michigan.gov/mda-mylsf. Applications must be postmarked no later than May 17, 2019.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONTACT JEFF HAARER, MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT, AT 517-284-5642 OR ERNIE BIRCHMEIER, MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU, AT 517-679-5335.

MMPA Advisory Committee DISTRICT 1 Scott Ferry, Litchfield............................517-214-3298 Jeff Horning, Manchester....................734-428-8610 Brad Hart, Clayton..................................517-445-2649 Daniel Minnis, Dansville.......................517-521-3529 Art Riske, Hanover..................................517-524-6015

DISTRICT 2 Mark Crandall, Battle Creek.................269-660-2229 Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN.........574-825-2454 Danny Ransler, Gobles..........................269-998-3802 Dan Ritter, Potterville............................517-645-7318 Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN.......574-825-5198

DISTRICT 3 Tim Butler, Sand Lake............................269-330-5538 Bill Gruppen, Zeeland...........................616-520-5143 Bill Stakenas, Free Soil...........................231-425-6913 Burke Larsen, Scottville........................231-425-8988 Gary Nelsen, Grant.................................231-834-7610

DISTRICT 4 Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................425-533-8106 Jeremy Werth, Alpena...........................989-464-4022 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard....................906-630-1957 Russ Tolan, Ossineke..............................989-471-2993 Ron Lucas, Posen....................................989-379-4694

DISTRICT 5 Robert Lee, Marion................................231-743-6794 Mike Rasmussen, Edmore...................989-304-0233 Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................989-506-5287 Bruce Benthem, McBain.......................231-920-1615 Amy Martin, Leroy..................................231-388-0496

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!

DISTRICT 6 David Reed, Owosso..............................989-723-2023 Mike Halfman, St. Johns.......................989-640-1962 Aaron Gasper, Lowell............................616-897-2747 Steve Thelen, Fowler.............................989-690-1075 Brad Ritter, Byron....................................586-405-4749

DISTRICT 7 John Bennett, Prescott.........................989-345-4264 Rodney Fowler, Chesaning.................989-302-2299 Scott Kleinhardt, Clare..........................989-386-8037 Philip Gross, Weidman..........................989-289-0670 Jason Elenbaum, Mayville...................989-274-1974

Non-GMO

products available

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

DISTRICT 8 Bill Blumerich, Berlin.............................810-706-2955 Darwin Sneller, Sebewaing.................989-977-3718 Mike Noll, Croswell.................................810-404-4071 Jeremy Sharrard, Peck...........................810-404-5076 Pat Bolday, Emmett................................810-395-7139

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

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LEGISLATIVE WATCH

NMPF, IDFA Support Legislation Allowing Whole Milk in School Meals The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) welcome the introduction of legislation sponsored by Reps. Glenn Thompson (R-PA) and Collin Peterson (D-MN), chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, allowing whole milk in school nutrition programs.

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2019 (H.R. 832) has eight other co-sponsors, including Rep. Mike Conaway (R-TX), ranking Republican on the House Agriculture Committee.

Adding whole milk to school menus reflects research showing that such products benefit children and gives school administrators one more tool with which to develop healthy eating habits.

“Whole milk provides yet another way for children to receive dairy’s nutritional benefits as part of a healthy eating pattern,” said Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF. “This bill encourages the proper nutrition they need to lead healthy lives.”

“We thank Rep. Thompson for his leadership and Chairman Peterson for being an original co-sponsor on this bill to allow schools more flexibility to offer the same types of milk that children and teens enjoy at home. Providing expanded milk options will help ensure that students get the nutrients that milk uniquely provides, including calcium, vitamin D and potassium,” said Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of IDFA. SOURCE: NMPF

U.S. Dairy Industry Supports Changes to Section 232 Process The U.S. dairy industry endorsed bipartisan, bicameral legislation to reform a powerful White House trade tool to ensure it is used as intended

by Congress to respond to genuine national security threats. Rolling back current retaliatory tariffs and keeping others from forming in the future is the dairy industry’s top trade priority.

America currently sends 16 percent of its dairy production overseas, and industry officials see a lot of room for expansion in the future.

The Trade Security Reform Act, sponsored by Reps. Ron Kind (D-WI) and Jackie Walorski (R-IN), and Sens.

Rob Portman (R-OH) and Doug Jones (D-AL), aims to change the process by which the Administration imposes Section 232 tariffs. The Portman-Jones and Kind-Walorski bills tighten Section 232 rules to ensure it is only used for true national security purposes while 12

MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

taking into consideration a number of economic and security concerns.

To do so, the legislation instructs the Department of Defense to investigate possible threats, and, when a legitimate threat is identified, asks the Department of Commerce to develop recommendations to respond. It also enhances the role Congress plays in the Section 232 process.

Section 232 was created by Congress to combat trade issues that pose a national security threat. In recent years, this process has been used to levy duties on imports of steel and aluminum from Mexico and other countries. In response, Mexico imposed retaliatory tariffs on a range of U.S. goods, including cheese.

Those retaliatory tariffs have been a heavy weight on U.S. cheese exports to our largest export market. An economic study released by Informa

Agribusiness Consulting estimates lost dairy exports of $1.1 billion over five years unless those tariffs are dropped. To date, the U.S. government has refused to remove the steel and aluminum tariffs and as such, Mexico has maintained its retaliatory tariffs.

“Agriculture is being hurt by retaliatory tariffs; the bill’s sponsors should be applauded for finding a common-sense process to a complex issue,” said Tom Vilsack, chairman and CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council. “It protects one of the president’s tools to combat threats to our national security while allowing for the full consideration of true safety and economic factors at play.”

SOURCE: NMPF

MICHIGAN ALLIANCE FOR ANIMAL AGRICULTURE TO INVEST

$2.6 MILLION IN 2019

T

he Michigan Alliance for Animal Agriculture (M-AAA) will invest $2.6 million in 2019 to support research and outreach that directly benefits the animal agriculture industries.

Addressing short- and long-term critical industry priorities linked to sustainability — managing antibiotic resistance, curbing infectious diseases, improving animal welfare and boosting environmental stewardship — are the initiative’s primary goals.

“I’m proud that as we enter the fifth year of M-AAA, we’ve been able to collaborate successfully with the animal agriculture industries and the state of Michigan to offer timely, valuable information and potential solutions to critical issues,” said George Smith, the associate director of Michigan State University (MSU) AgBioResearch and associate dean for research in the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

“On behalf of the M-AAA leadership team, I want to thank the state of Michigan for its third consecutive year of financial support for M-AAA and the commodity organizations for their continued commitment to the program.”

Twenty projects were chosen for funding in 2019. Grants are awarded in one of three categories: research, extension or seed funding.

“We really value the ability to help direct university research toward issues that are affecting farmers today,” said Mary Kelpinski, the chief executive

officer of the Michigan Pork Producers Association. “Serving as one of the reviewers allows me the opportunity to make sure the funded research proposals are benefiting today’s farming needs and future challenges.

Farming has changed over the years, and we need to continue to find ways to raise more food in a safer, more sustainable manner to feed our growing populations.”

Maninderpal Singh, an assistant professor in the MSU Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, leads the first project to receive joint funding from M-AAA and Project GREEEN (Generating Research and Extension to meet Economic and Environmental Needs). Project GREEEN operates a competitive grants program similar to M-AAA for research and outreach within plant agriculture.

Jeannine Schweihofer, a meat quality MSU Extension educator, is examining shelf-life and packaging concerns associated with uncured vacuum packaged meat products. The objective is to increase efficiency for processors, enabling the production of larger batches of products while reducing the time and resources expended.

Singh is seeking to improve the management of ear rot and fungal contamination of corn silage, a valuable feedstuff for cattle, swine and poultry.

Contamination can result in health challenges for these animals.

Twenty projects were chosen for funding in 2019.

Grants are awarded in one of three categories:

1 RESEARCH

2 EXTENSION

3 SEED FUNDING

Elizabeth Ferry, an MSU Extension educator, is using M-AAA funding to provide outreach and training on emergency response preparedness for accidents or emergencies that involve livestock. First responders often don’t have the training or equipment to handle livestock trailer accidents. This training will help first responders know what equipment is needed and how to use it to safely and humanely move livestock.

“The dedicated funding drives more targeted research to address Michiganspecific issues,” said Ron Bates, the director of the MSU Extension Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute.

“The M-AAA improves our ability to quickly and effectively communicate these research results back to Michigan farmers in forms they can use to improve their farm businesses.”

For a complete list of 2019 projects, visit maaa.msu.edu/projects.

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

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at the

103rd Annual State Delegate Meeting will elect two at-large members to serve a three-year term on the MMPA board of directors.

There are five candidates vying for the two open positions.

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2019 DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE CANDIDATES

Delegates

MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

POSITION ONE

Ken Nobis Ken Nobis is a member of the MMPA Mid-Michigan Local in District 6. He is the current MMPA President, having served as President since 2007. He has been on the MMPA Board of Directors since 1992. He served as Vice-President from 2000 to 2007. Leadership roles outside of MMPA include serving on the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) Board of Directors as the NMPF Treasurer and First Vice-Chair. He earned a U.S. Dairy Farm Sustainability Award in 2015 and the MSU Department of Animal Science Dairy Farmers of the Year Award in 2006 with his business partner Larry Nobis. He and Larry own a 1,050-cow dairy in St. Johns, Michigan. Nobis and his wife Liz have two children.

“The experience I bring in all aspects of our dairy and co-op business is positive for MMPA. I continue to be active on my own farm operation and understand the daily challenges. I have been successful in working with the many different players in the dairy world from producers, to processors, to policy makers at all levels, to consumers.”

Aaron Gasper Aaron Gasper is a member of the MMPA Mid-Michigan Local in District 6. He currently serves on the MMPA advisory committee, as the Mid-Michigan Local vice president, the MMPA nominating committee and the MMPA resolutions committee. Gasper and his wife, Andrea, were the 2007 MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators (OYDC).

Other leadership roles Gasper has held include the Ionia Farm Bureau Young Farmer chair, Ionia Farm Bureau membership chair and Ionia Soil Conservation board member. He has received an MMPA 20-year milk quality award and was a 2001 Dairy Shrine Award winner. Aaron owns a 550cow dairy farm in Lowell, Michigan. Aaron and Andrea have two children.

Brad Ritter Brad Ritter is a member of the MMPA Owosso Local in District 6. He served as the MMPA District 6 Director from 2011 to 2014, has been on the MMPA advisory committee and along with wife, Tonia, was the 2008 MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator (OYDC).

While serving as the MMPA OYDC, they served on the NMPF Young Cooperator advisory council as the chair couple. Other leadership roles held by Ritter include serving on the Michigan Farm Bureau state dairy advisory committee, Shiawassee County Farm Bureau board director and currently as the Shiawassee County dairy committee president. Brad and his business partners own a 220-cow dairy in Byron, Michigan. He and Tonia have three children.

“I would continue to bring the thoughts and ideas of our membership to the Board. I feel the ‘grass-roots’ of our membership and how the membership is informed is the reason we are still a strong milk co-op.”

“I want to see the continued prosperity of the dairy industry to ensure the opportunities for my family to be involved for the next generation. I want to be engaged in leading our co-op through these changing times in dairy marketing, legislative initiatives and new market and product development.”

POSITION TWO

Gertie van den Goor Gertie van den Goor is a member of the MMPA MidSanilac Local in District 8. She was elected to the MMPA board of directors in 2016 as a director-at-large.

She is currently an MMPA Dairy Communicator and has held leadership roles in MMPA as a delegate and on the advisory committee.

She and her husband, Geert, were selected as the MSU Department of Animal Science Dairy Farmers of the Year in 2014. Gertie serves as a Sanilac County Foundation Board member and as Vice President of Harrington House. Gertie and Geert operate a 3,000cow dairy in Marlette, Michigan and have three children.

“I gained a very good understanding in my first term on the Board of the challenges and opportunities that are out there for MMPA and the industry. I am not afraid to share an idea, even when it looks like a crazy one. I believe that we need to have tough conversations about hard subjects in order to make the co-op better.”

Bryan Schulte Bryan Schulte is a member of the MMPA Huron Local in District 8 and currently is serving as a delegate. Other roles Schulte has held are the St. Anthony’s parish men’s club president, the MFB natural resource committee and the Michigan Sugar East district nominating committee chairman. He and his wife, Amy, own a 750-cow dairy in Ruth, Michigan and have three children.

“I would like to serve on the Board of Directors to help guide our management team to serve our members to the best of our co-ops’ abilities. I feel that my knowledge in general accounting and budget management, creating and building customer relationships, an out of the box thinking and approach to problem solving, and the ability to work well with others would benefit the membership.”

It all starts with you.

On March 14, we will mark a special day of appreciation when we return $82 million to our member-owners. Patronage is a result of our shared success and a reflection of our members’ continued hard work, dedication and commitment.

For more information contact your local GreenStone branch today.

800-444-3276

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

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

EXPANSION INCREASES CONSTANTINE DAILY CAPACITY BY 1.3 MILLION POUNDS OF MILK

BY ALLISON STUBY MILLER

In Constantine, Michigan, the corner of Station Street and East 2nd Street sits in a new shadow. Gleaming in the sun and reaching up to 78 feet tall, 17 water and milk silos tower over the village corner.

Rewind a few months, stand on that same corner and you’ll find an entirely different view.

T

he transformation began in June 2018. First, a crew installed footers to support the foundation of a 7,500 square foot addition to the existing milk processing plant. Then custom built machinery was fit into place.

Those silos paraded through the village, a crane tilted them 90 degrees to mount into place. Soon after, skim milk started flowing through the new system. And at last, the first load of ultra-filtered milk departed.

All in six months’ time.

The MMPA dairy plant – located six miles north of the Michigan-Indiana border – underwent a 1.3 million pounds of milk per day expansion.

Completed in November 2018, the project comes at a time when more milk processing capabilities are needed in the Great Lakes region.

“Our ability to execute a project like our Constantine expansion in the timely manner we did demonstrates our commitment and determination to proceed with our strategy,” Joe Diglio, MMPA chief executive officer, said. MMPA’s strategy includes asset maximization, business development and strategic alignment with customers.

The MMPA board of directors— made up of 13 elected dairy farmer members—approved the project in April 2018. They were confident in the innovative vision of MMPA staff and took on the risk of moving away from MMPA’s traditional product mix, according to the team involved.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 18)

ULTRA-FILTERED MILK END USE PRODUCTS

INFANT NUTRITION

CHEESE

YOGURT

SPORT DRINKS

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

17

CONSTRUCTION AT THE CONSTANTINE PLANT BEGAN IN JUNE 2018 AND WAS COMPLETED IN NOVEMBER.

THE UF PROJECT TEAM ONSITE DURING CONSTRUCTION INCLUDED AARON BEAK, DAVE DAVIS AND JESSE MAHONEY.

THE MMPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS TOURED THE NEW ADDITION TO THE CONSTANTINE PLANT DURING THEIR FEBRUARY MEETING. FROM LEFT: KEN NOBIS, TIM HOOD, CARLTON EVANS, GERTIE VAN DEN GOOR, SCOTT LAMB, DAVE PYLE, MARK ICIEK, DOUG CHAPIN, TONY JANDERNOA, ERIC FRAHM, HANK CHOATE, TODD HOPPE, KRIS WARDIN AND CORBY WERTH.

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17)

“Transitions can take place slowly or rapidly.

It really depends on how prepared you are to embrace a changing environment.”

JOE DIGLIO, MMPA CEO

The board continually reviews expansion opportunities at every meeting to determine what opportunities are best for MMPA members.The ultra-filtered project fit into MMPA’s strategy and met the co-op’s timing, capital and return on investment goals, according to the team. The board realized the need for immediate investments along with other long term solutions to accommodate the region’s milk supply.

“They were like, ‘Can you get it done tomorrow?’” Dave Davis, Constantine plant manager recalled from conversations with the board.

Even with great leadership, construction of a project of this scale can take a long time. MMPA completed construction in six months. For Davis, meeting the aggressive deadline was possible due to “great teamwork” among staff. In addition, over 20 construction and

18

MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

equipment vendors were involved, all locked into meeting the project’s accelerated timing. “At one point, we had 110 people onsite,” he said.

The new value added product, ultra-filtered milk, builds upon Constantine’s existing portfolio of mainly commodity dairy products like butter and powder. Ultrafiltered milk is a fluid dairy product created by concentrating protein and removing minerals and lactose.

The process also removes water naturally found in milk during concentration, called cow water.

When the plant receives member milk, it is first separated into skim milk and cream, then pasteurized.

Some of the cream is churned into MMPA’s award-winning butter.

As for the skim milk, it can be evaporated, dried or concentrated into ultra-filtered milk. From there, ultra-filtered milk can be used in infant nutrition, cheese standardization, yogurt and dairy nutrition drinks.

The new addition to MMPA’s product line adds value for members not just for the product itself, but by displacing skim milk previously destined for condensed skim. The value to members is “two-fold,” Jim Feene, senior director of sales says. “It’s not just adding new products, it’s displacing one of our lowest margin products.”

While designing and constructing the new addition to Constantine, the team paid close attention to sustainability and efficiency. The system has a low water and carbon footprint, according to Aaron Beak, MMPA director of business development and hedging.

“We installed more energy efficient equipment, improved biosecurity and focused on all the bells and whistles,” he said.

P n D re o is se w C a av ou so ai nT n la s bl e

“The ultra-filtration plant can generate up to 85,000 gallons of pasteurized equivalate water per day. We use the clean water to clean and operate the

UF system,” Davis added.

Ultra-filtered technology runs milk through a series of membranes to get a particular result based on the customer’s needs, according to Beak. MMPA’s system allows for customization, which makes it unique.

for higher-protein, lower-carb, lowerlactose products. Consumers pay close attention to food labels these days, and ultra-filtrated milk allows for a shorter ingredient list on retail products while meeting those needs, according to the team.

“Our system is make-to-order,” Beak said. Some customers know what they want, while in other cases MMPA develops a product to fit their needs.

“The timing [for the expansion] was as soon as possible because the market was ripe for opportunity,” Feeney said.

Customer relationships are “critical” for this system and its strategic location in southern Michigan, Feeney adds. “We will continue to work with historical customers as well as new opportunities,” he said. “There are products that don’t exist today we want to work with customers to develop.”

Looking ahead, the team says there is room for more growth in both technology and sales opportunities.

With the board’s support and a motivated staff, the expansion is one way MMPA is adapting to a continually evolving dairy industry.

The ultra-filtered milk system fits market demands as consumers search

“Transitions can take place slowly or rapidly,” Diglio said. “It really depends on how prepared you are to embrace a changing environment.”

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19

2019 MICHIGAN DAIRY AMBASSADORS

Look Ahead to a Year of Dairy Promotion Seven Michigan youth were named Michigan Dairy Ambassadors after gathering at the 2019 Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference for leadership training, commencing a year of dairy promotion and outreach in Michigan. The program welcomes students in high school and college to hone in on their skills and learn how to communicate about their passion in dairy.

“The Michigan Dairy Ambassador program gives youth with a special interest in dairy the opportunity to connect with consumers and share their ‘dairy story,’” said Jessica Welch, a member of the Dairy Ambassador planning team and MMPA member relations coordinator. “Our goal is to equip each Michigan Dairy

Ambassador with the communication skills and tools to represent the dairy community and industry in a positive way.”

The Dairy Ambassadors began their year with a day-long leadership training on Feb. 8 in Frankenmuth, Michigan. Throughout the day, ambassadors took part in dairy promotion brainstorming, sat in on Drew Vermeire’s presentation titled, “Management of Young Calves for 2020 and Beyond” and an inspirational presentation by Mark Jewel titled, “Beyond Survival: Rediscovering How to Thrive in Tough Times.” They wrapped up the afternoon with training to harness their “Youth Voice” with Sara Keinath from MSU Extension.

Led by Welch and Bridget Moore, Industry Relations Specialist at the United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM), the ambassadors were guided through engagement activities and challenged to try new things such as starting conversations with new people.

Ambassadors will take part in further trainings and represent the dairy industry at promotional and outreach events throughout the year. Next up for the ambassadors is a communications training at UDIM in March and representation at industry events throughout the year, including Dairy Day at the Capitol, Michigan Livestock Expo Sale‐abration, Michigan 4‐H Dairy Days Awards Banquet, Breakfast on the Farm and the MMPA Leaders’ Conference.

The newly designed, participationbased program will offer the ambassadors an opportunity to earn an interview after accumulating points. Their application, resume, participation and interview will determine the junior and senior scholarship winners for 2019.

Recipients will be announced at the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference’s Michigan Dairy Industry Recognition Night February 2020. The Michigan Dairy Ambassador program is administered by the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference.

2019 MICHIGAN DAIRY AMBASSADORS JUNIOR AMBASSADORS: IAN BLACK, EAGLE, KEEGAN NUGENT, CLARKSVILLE, JONATHAN SAYLES, BAY CITY, ABBY VANDYK, KALAMAZOO, KATIE WILSON, BLANCHARD SENIOR AMBASSADORS ELYSE ZIMMERLEE, BELLEVUE, AND BRYNNEN GARDNER, BELMONT.

20

MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

2018 Michigan Dairy Ambassador Scholarship recipients were announced at this year’s recognition night. The senior scholarship was awarded to Leta Larsen of Scottville, Michigan and the junior scholarship was awarded to Abby VanDyk of Kalamazoo, Michigan.

2018 DAIRY AMBASSADOR SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS Two scholarship recipients were

2018 Junior Michigan Dairy Ambassador Abby VanDyk Kalamazoo, MI

selected from the group of 2018 Michigan Dairy Ambassadors.

These students went through

“My favorite part about being a Dairy Ambassador is that I had a chance to Agvocate for the amazing dairy community. I was able to promote dairy to the people who thought about the false advertising of the dairy industry.

My favorite project was when I created a display that was exhibited at my County Fair.”

the training program in February 2018 at the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference in Mt. Pleasant and then served a year as a Michigan Dairy Ambassador. The scholarship winners were selected based on their performance and an interview. The junior and senior

2018 Senior Michigan Dairy Ambassador Leta Larsen Scottville, MI

representatives will receive a $1,000 and $1,500 scholarship, respectively.

“I enjoyed interacting with individuals of all ages, but in particular, I loved teaching children about the dairy industry. Seeing their eyes light up when they pet a cow or watch a cow being milked is a great feeling.

Showing them that milk doesn’t just come from the grocery store and giving them the ability to put a story and a face with the product they put on their cereal, or drink with their dinner is a very rewarding.”

y r i a D revenue protection

Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan, has been named MMPA’s RECOMMENDED INSURANCE PROVIDER for Dairy Revenue Protection Insurance.

American Farm Bureau Federation in cooperation with American Farm Bureau Services, Inc. developed this new policy to protect your farm from unexpected declines in milk prices and production. Our team of dedicated Crop Insurance Specialists are ready to explain this policy and illustrate what it can do for your farm.

Protect your farm today by calling (800) 544-CROP for more information or to locate a Crop Insurance Specialist near you!

RECOMMENDED PROVIDER

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

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MAKING EMPLOYEES

VALUED PARTNERS IN YOUR DAIRY BUSINESS

BY MELISSA HART

NOW MORE THAN EVER, AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS NEED TO TRANSFORM THE PRODUCTIVITY OF THEIR FARMING OPERATIONS USING AN INSIDE RESOURCE; THEIR EMPLOYEES.

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

“W

hen it comes to management, employees are a critical part of the business, and whatever their job, we need their minds involved,” explained Phil Durst of Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) as he and his Extension colleagues, Stan Moore and Martin Mangual, kicked off the opening session of the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference held recently in Frankenmuth, Michigan.

Durst explained that dairy producers need employees for more than just the physical work of their job but also for their ideas and decision making.

the work ethic of the employee. While business leaders may not be comfortable in the coaching or mentoring role, it is necessary in order to help employees become valued partners.

Historically dairy producers have used extrinsic motivators to manage their employees. This usually involves a bonus or reward for a job well done and a punishment of some type if they don’t do their job. While this management system has shown it doesn’t work well and can negatively affect job performance, farmers continue to use it.

Intrinsic motivators, those that are internal to the individual, have been proven to move people to action.

There are four core motivators; competence, autonomy, “This is a critical aspect of the employee that we need to relatedness and purpose. When a business leader helps capture more of,” Durst added. Because it is becoming to meet these basic needs of employees, more difficult to find good employees, they are more likely to be intrinsically developing them into productive assets motivated and stay in the job. should be a priority.

CORE “Availability of employees has changed remarkably in the last ten years. There are just fewer people available to work on farms,” Durst continued. “This ought to tell us that we need to manage those employees a whole lot better because we can’t replace them.”

Durst pointed to a book by Eric Chester, Reviving Work Ethic. In this book, Chester defines work ethic as employees knowing the right thing to do and doing it. Chester says a work ethic is marked by seven qualities: positive attitude, reliability, professionalism, initiative, respect, integrity and gratitude.

MOTIVATORS Competence

Autonomy

Relatedness

Purpose

“I want to change your mindset from being an employer to a business leader.” Durst encouraged the crowd, “An employer is a passive term, but a business leader is someone who leads the business and leads the people in all of the business aspects.” Durst went on to say that leaders take a role in developing employees so that the employees will be assets to the business and partners who make the business better.

“You as a business leader have a role in your employees knowing what to do and in doing it. You have a role in the work ethic of your employees and in accomplishing the goals of the business,” Durst explained.

As employees move from little knowledge about their job to increased knowledge of the duties they should perform, they become more valuable. But Durst maintains that training only affects the cognizance of an employee, they either know what to do or they don’t. Coaching develops

Teaching employees gives them competence. This will help them become the expert on the tasks you have asked them to do. Once they are competent, give them autonomy, the authority to do their job and make decisions. But with that, you also need to agree on the standards they are expected to meet.

Coaching employees in the core values and culture of your business will meet their need for relatedness. And showing employees the bigger picture and helping them see how important they are in influencing whether the farm is successful, gives the employee purpose.

Other considerations in making employees a valued partner in the business is the culture. Is everyone striving toward the same set of goals? Creating goals with the input of your employees is an opportunity to improve work culture and it will provide them with some ownership and responsibility.

There are no guarantees, people leave jobs for various reasons. It’s not uncommon to invest time and energy in an employee only to have them leave. But their departure should not discourage business leaders from investing in the next employee.

“Remember the vision of what you are trying to achieve. As business leaders you need to continue to learn because we never know it all. And we need to be continuously teaching.” Durst concluded. “The end goal is having employees as a valued and functioning part of your business.”

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

23

OYDC SPOTLIGHT

2018

OYDC FINALISTS Rebecca & Andy Bahrman

ABOUT US…

In November of 2014, Rebecca and her family began milking cows on Pirman Corner Dairy Farm in Skandia, Michigan. Rebecca and her husband Andy were recently married in June 2018. When Rebecca isn’t working at her off the farm job as a nurse at Lakewood Medical or as a local EMT, she milks cows, does the herd health duties and manages the farm records. Her husband Andy works as an MSU Extension crop specialist. He also handles many of the farm repairs and as a relief milker when needed.

“I love to promote milk. My favorite part about being a dairy farmer is being

Cows: around the cows and working as a family,” said Rebecca. “I enjoy the satisfaction 30 milking, 60 total head Milking facility: milking two times per day in a four-stall step up parlor

of providing a quality food product to consumers and educating our community about dairy farming.”

Future plans at Pirman Corners Dairy Farm include expanding the milking herd to 50 cows, focusing on Land: providing continued excellent animal care and quality 300 acres of peas, oats, hay milk. They would like to expand their land base to do and pasture more grazing on pasture as well.

Member of: UP West Central Local, District 4

24

MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

“Surrounding ourselves with positive people and seeking out support from other dairy farmers helps us keep looking toward the future through the current challenges in the [dairy] industry,” Rebecca said.

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

Dairy Producer Grants are Back, with a Few Changes

S

haring about your dairy and the dairy food you produce can go a long way in helping local community members understand what you do. One way to focus on the goodness of dairy is to focus on the nutritious and delicious dairy foods you produce daily, and remind others of the benefits they provide.

Advocating for dairy in your local community can teach consumers about your business and highlight the high quality dairy foods we enjoy.

In 2018 you and your peers increased consumer trust and shared the dairy story with nearly 100,000 people in communities across the state! Feel free to incorporate these ideas into your own promotion plans: • Supplying a refrigerator in a school weight room and filling it with milk for students to drink after practice.

• Donating single serve dairy foods to food banks, for parents to put in their children’s lunches.

• Hosting a wine and cheese pairing at a local winery.

own communities through the Dairy Promotion Grants. Each Michigan dairy farm can apply for up to $1,500 towards the purchase of dairy foods and support items for local activations (i.e. ice, coolers, Milk Means More table cloths).

Changes for 2019 New this year, the dairy provided must be a visible addition to the event. An incremental product that would not have been used before and must be visible at the event. For example, milk to drink with a meal would qualify, but butter used in an already-planned recipe would not. Another example of an acceptable use is providing butter for rolls, rather than margarine.

ONE DAIRY FAMILY PARTNERED WITH A LOCAL WINERY TO PROVIDE CHEESE SAMPLES AND CHEESE PAIRING GUIDES.

As the team at United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) connects with consumers across the state on your behalf, we want to help you connect directly with consumers in your

We have also created tabletop signs announcing the dairy foods were donated by a local dairy farm family.

An electronic file will be included in the grant approval email, which you can print and use at your events.

For more details and to complete the application, visit https:// www.milkmeansmore.org/dairyproducers/dairy-grant-program/.

If you have any questions, please call the UDIM office.

To order dairy promotional items for your next event, call Lisa at the UDIM office at 517-349-8927. We will gather general information and send resources that best fit your event and those attending.

MILK AND EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS WERE PROVIDED TO RUNNERS AT 5K’S ACROSS THE STATE.

If you have questions about the Dairy Promotion Grant please contact Bridget Moore at bridget@ milkmeansmore.org.

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

25

POLICIES

Drug Residue Policy

MMPA Milk Quality Policy

MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED

MILK ON FARM – QUALITY QUESTIONABLE

MILK SHIPPED – REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT

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

When a member suspects that the milk in

IF a load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant

1 Call a MMPA member representative to have the milk in the tank tested.

should call a MMPA member representative

A “hold” must be placed on the tank contents until the test results are known.

dumped. If the member dumps the milk on

OR 2 The MMPA 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.

MILK SHIPPED — POSITIVE DRUGS CONFIRMED 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.

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

ALL POSITIVE DRUG RESIDUE SHIPMENTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE ENFORCEMENT AGENCY. 26

MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

the farm bulk tank is of poor quality they who will authorize milk in the tank to be 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 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 a load of milk is received (unloaded) at a dairy processing plant AND IF a sample from the load has a bacteria count of 300,000 or more AND IF 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.

AND IF 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 IF 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.

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.

MILK HAULERS A hauler whose entire load sample exceeds 300,000 cfu 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 cfu per mL.

TEMPERATURE BULK TANK FARMS A hauler will be responsible for all costs incurred by MMPA for loads rejected for temperature.

DIRECT LOAD FARMS A hauler will be responsible for the freight and disposal charges for all loads of milk rejected for temperature. If farm conditions indicate an on-farm cause for the load to be warm, the member will be responsible for the loss of milk value. In the case where a member cannot be shown as the cause of the rejected load for temperature, the hauler will be responsible for the freight, disposal charges, and loss in milk value.

QUALITY PREMIUMS

MMPA Quality Premium Program

MMPA Member Testing Fees

SOMATIC CELL COUNT (SCC) PREMIUMS AND DEDUCTIONS

Payment for testing will be made through

Somatic Cell Count premiums and deductions

All costs are listed per individual sample.

(in addition to Federal Order SCC Adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels:

an automatic milk check deduction.

COW TESTS: $1 Cow samples may be tested for:

50,000 or below...................................... +55¢/cwt.

• Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae

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

• Strep non ag

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

• Staphylococcus aureus

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.

• 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

ADDITIONAL TESTS AVAILABLE: All costs are listed per individual sample.

• 10,000 Raw Bacteria Count • 20,000 Pre-Incubated (PI) Count

__________________________

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea

There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for:

- ELISA..................................................................... $6

• Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count

• Johne’s Milk Test

A high raw count deduction will be waived if the

- PCR......................................................................$40

- ELISA – cows...................................................... $6

- ELISA – tank..................................................... $10

To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month:

• Bovine Leukosis Test

• Positive drug residue

- ELISA – tank..................................................... $10

• High load count shipment or rejected load shipment

__________________________

• Bacteriology Cultures – includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility....................................$16

- PCR......................................................................$40

• Abnormal freeze points

__________________________

Member name:

previous three months for raw bacteria count.

Loc/Hlr/Producer #

• Mycoplasma Cultures...................................... $14

producer has received the quality premium the

Refer to fee schedule to the left for current pricing.

The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer.

Sample Date:

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

A payment of 5¢/cwt. will be added for each of the following, if the count is equal to or below:

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

through your MMPA member representative.

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

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

NORTHSTAR MI LABORATORIES

- ELISA – cows...................................................... $6

• Milk Pregnancy ELISA................................ $4.50

__________________________ Sample ID: __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

n BLV ELISA

LAB TEST RESULTS BY MAIL – $2/MONTH

n Johne’s ELISA

• Raw Bacteria count over 100,000 The count levels for raw and PI will be determined

All tests must be scheduled through your

n Johne’s PCR

on one test run per month.

MMPA member representative or the

• #3 or #4 sediment

laboratory for proper sample submission

To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month

n Pregnancy

protocol. Lab form provided below for your convenience.

If you would like lab test cards EU SCC REQUIREMENT All MMPA member milk must meet the

provided to you, please contact

requirements of European Union certification

the MMPA laboratory in Novi

for SCC which is an average of 400,000 or

at 800-572-5824.

less calculated by a rolling geometric mean.

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

27

FREELINERS & CLASSIFIEDS TO SUBMIT ADS, EMAIL MESSENGER@MIMILK.COM, FAX 248-426-3412, OR VISIT MIMILK.COM/FREELINER-CLASSIFIED

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.

FREELINERS

Milking Equipment

Bulls

3000g Dairy Kool Milk Tank. Includes wash equipment and chart recorder.

Has (2) 3ph cooling units that are approx. 3 years old that can be sold with or without tank. Very good condition. 231-510-4978.

Service age Holstein bulls. Call Steve Alexander, 810-622-8548 evenings or 810-404-8548.

Cows Looking for more butterfat & protein?

Have 45 purebred Jersey cows for sale.

2/3 of herd in 1st & 2nd lactation. Mostly fresh December, January & February.

Serious inquiries only. 260-593-0282 ext. 2.

165 registered Holstein herd and bred heifers. 25,400m (2x) 4.3%bft 3.3%p 130,000scc rha Have received the progressive genetic award from Holstein Association for 27 consecutive years. Have classified for 60 yrs. with an approximate BAA of 103. A young herd with many et’s, some r&w and some polled. Mattress free stall barn, herringbone parlor and cows on pasture seasonally. Genetics have stressed components, health traits and functional type with tpi’s over 2600. For more information call Wardin Brothers at 989-860-9791.

2 Lely A4 Manager Robots, many extras, call for details. Wakarusa, Indiana.

574-538-8642.

3,000 gal. Surge Stainless Milk Tank with dual 5 hp. single phase compressors and free heater. Good working condition. $22,000. Call 810-241-8999.

800 gal. Mueller Tank with 3 hp compressor. Good working condition. $2,500. Call 810-241-8999.

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 Michigan Milk Messenger.

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

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

28

MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

CLASSIFIEDS 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.

Call 517-647-7381.

s s s g g g n n n i i i s s s s s e e e l l l B B B y y y n n n a a a M M M CA CA CALLLFFFFA FA FARRRM M M FEEDING FEEDING FEEDING AND AND AND MANAGING MANAGING MANAGING CALVES CALVES CALVES FROM FROM FROM BIRTH BIRTH BIRTH TO TO TO 10 1010 WEEKS WEEKS WEEKS OF OF OF AGE AGE AGE

BRUCE BRUCE BRUCE HILL HILL HILL ELISABETH ELISABETH ELISABETH COTTON COTTON COTTON

989-329-0809 989-329-0809 989-329-0809 989-387-7068 989-387-7068 989-387-7068

• • • New New New facility facility facility • • • Located Located ininin MidMidLocated MidMichigan Michigan Michigan • • • Calf Calf Calf facilities facilities facilities are are are housed housed housed indoors indoors indoors • • • All calves calves have have AllAll calves have individual individual pens pens individual pens • • • Protocol Protocol available available Protocol available upon upon request request upon request Transportation • • • Transportation Transportation available available available

MERCHANDISE AMERICAN FARM PRODUCTS DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: NO water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better traction. We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. Three operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. 1987.

Call 1-800-365-3361.

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

CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-STATE SCABBLING, home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices. Call (800) 554-2288. www.tristatescabbling.com.

NEW KATOLIGHT PTO GENERATOR, 60 KW, keep everyone warm and producing if there is a power outage.

Call Brent at 248-770-5122.

FOR SALE: 35 ft. IH Field Cultivator, used, good condition, with Vibrashank, $800. Call 989-593-2488.

A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/ texturing provides high quality traction in new & old concrete, fast service. Call for your below pricing 989-635-1494. BLUE RIBBON HOOF TRIMMING, LLC. FOR SALE: 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. Spring special 2000 gal. Muellers for $13,900 & up.

2700 & 4000 gal. Muellers call for quote.

Call 800-558-0112.

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

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

SEED CORN - 85 Day “Minnesota 13” open pollinated, heirloom yellow field corn seed. Non-GMO, 80,000 viable seeds per bag. $95. High yield, high protein, fast dry down, great stalk strength. Free delivery available.

Visit JanksSeeds.com 989-284-5052.

Electrolytes and Scours prevention Calf scours are a concern for every dairy farm. The merchandise program stocks several products from American Farm Products that can aid in the prevention of scours and speed up the recovery from them. When used together, these products can be an excellent care and prevention package.

Maxibac: Maxibac Calf Gel is a concentrated gel containing billions of specialized lactic acid bacteria and a yeast culture specially formulated for monogastric animals. It is used at birth to populate the gut with beneficial bacteria that can protect the animal from the overgrowth of harmful organisms. Give Maxibac at birth and when calves face environmental stresses such as transporting, environmental changes and feeding changes.

When a calf scours, Maxibac will restore the level of beneficial bacteria in the gut and restore gut pH to levels that will inhibit harmful organisms. Each 80cc syringe provides 8 doses.

STOCK #8301

MEMBER PRICE: $ 12.80 EA.

Stand Up: Stand Up Calf Gel is a more aggressive culture of lactic acid bacteria that can live in more hostile environments. It is given when extreme environmental or physical problems exist, and the animal is in danger of imminent death. Each 30cc syringe contains 2 doses.

STOCK #8302

MEMBER PRICE: $10.84 EA.

Source E: Source E is an aggressive electrolyte supplement for the rehydration of calves that are scouring or have insufficient water intake. Source E is used in conjunction with Maxibac or Stand Up to return gut pH and digestive bacteria to normal. Source E contains no sodium bicarbonate therefore milk and milk replacer feedings can continue as normal.

It is available in 4oz packs or 10 lb and 25 lb containers.

STOCK #8308 - 20/4OZ PACKS

MEMBER PRICE: $ 72.00

STOCK #8309 - 10# PAIL

MEMBER PRICE: $ 121.13

STOCK #8310 - 25# PAIL

MEMBER PRICE: $ 255.00

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

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

THREE WAYS TO ORDER YOUR MMPA MERCHANDISE

ECOLAB 24-Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026 Service Message Center: 1-800-392-3392 Service Representatives: » Pat Mitchell 517-403-0928 7273 N. Rollin Highway Addison, MI 49220 » Jason Wolfe 540-553-5755 1890 Canter Drive Riner, VA 24149

1 Place your order through your milk hauler 2 Call in your order: Duane Farmer, Supervisor 989-317-8370

Toll Free: 877-367-6455

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

3. Fax in your order: MMPA Merchandise fax 989-317-8372

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

29

MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary AMS Survey Prices (monthly average, per pound)

Cheese 1.3742 / LB

|

FOR MILK MARKETED IN DECEMBER 2018

Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33

# This Month # Year Ago % Change Total Class 1 Sales

557,879,918

541,188,321

+3.08

Total Class 2 Sales

181,917,989

261,850,391

-30.53

Total Class 3 Sales

571,486,912

540,709,990

+5.69

Total Class 4 Sales

263,509,387

317,127,223

-16.91

1,574,794,206

1,660,875,925

-5.18

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

35.4%

32.6%

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers...............................................................................4,441 Avg. Daily Production per farm....................................................11,439 Avg. Protein Test...........................................................................3.23%

Butter 2.2425 / LB

Avg. Butterfat Test.........................................................................3.99% Avg. Oth Solids Test......................................................................5.75%

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb.......................................................................... $1.1417 Butterfat Price /lb....................................................................... $2.5080 Other Solids Price /lb................................................................. $0.2775

Milk Powders

Class III Price @ 3.5%.................................................................... $13.78

Nonfat Dry Milk

Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt..................................................... $1.27

0.9020 / LB

Uniform Price @ 3.5%................................................................... $15.05

Dry Whey

SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000..................................................... $0.00069

0.4685 / LB

National Trends* (production in millions of pounds)

*For 23 States 30

MESSENGER | MARCH 2019

California Wisconsin New York Idaho Texas Michigan Pennsylvania Minnesota New Mexico Washington Ohio Indiana Total U.S.* U.S Y-T-D *

2018

3,425 2,574 1,244 1,265 1,079 931 856 833 670 567 440 342 17,133 204,825

2017

3,369 2,539 1,219 1,206 1,030 933 911 689 689 541 459 355 16,978 202,455

% Change

+1.7 +1.4 +2.1 +4.9 +4.8 -0.2 -6.0 +1.0 -2.8 +4.8 -4.1 -3.7 +0.9 +1.2

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

Chief Executive Officer Joe Diglio................................................................ ext. 202

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 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard.................................. 248-756-2062 Brittni Tucker, Eagle...........................................248-880-3785

East 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 Gucwa, Bad Axe......................................248-826-6294 Emily Peacock, Otisville......................................248-826-7243

South Area Supervisor Dave Brady, Grass Lake......................................517-937-9061

Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys......................................................... ext. 240 Hedging and Business Development Aaron Beak............................................................. ext. 256 Quality Sudeep Jain............................................................ ext. 249

Josep Barenys, Asst. Treasurer

Sales James Feeney.......................................................... ext. 258 Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula........................................................... ext. 219 Manufacturing Kaylan Kennel............................................... 248-880-5413 Human Resources Kelly Kerrigan......................................................... ext. 301 Member Services Dean Letter................................................... 989-289-9251

Communications Allison Stuby Miller................................................. ext. 296 Krista Schrock............................................... 269-986-6792

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

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

Controller Shelly Sowers.......................................................... ext. 259 Supply Chain Therese Tierney....................................................... ext. 217 Member Relations Jessica Welch.......................................................... ext. 303

Manufacturing Plants Constantine, Michigan Dave Davis, Plant Manager............................ 269-435-2835 Ovid, Michigan Ron Steinhorst, Plant Manager...................... 989-834-2221 Middlebury Cheese Company Middlebury, Indiana ................................ 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

Kris Wardin, Vice President

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

Other Member Services

Sustainability Coordinator Kendra Kissane, Byron Center...........................248-880-4234

Ken Nobis, President

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt.................................................... ext. 210

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

Officers

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

Joe Packard, Manchester...................................248-520-3481 Anna Tucker, Mt. Gilead, OH.............................248-533-2288 Brandon Evans, Coldwater................................231-414-4539

Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers....................................269-967-7351

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.

Joe Diglio, CEO / Secretary

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel Directors-At-Large Ken Nobis, St. Johns 989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 202 Kris Wardin, St. Johns 989-640-9420 Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453 Carlton Evans, Litchfield 517-398-0629 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

MARCH 2019 | MESSENGER

31

P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376

YOUNG COOPERATOR TOUR MARCH 27-28, 2019 JOIN US FOR A TWO-DAY BUS TRIP TO THE SIMPLE WAY OF LIFE! DAY ONE we will travel by bus to Constantine, Michigan to tour the MMPA processing plant, enjoy an authentic dinner at an Amish family farm and overnight at the Blue Gate Inn located in Shipshewana, Indiana.

DAY TWO will begin with breakfast and conversation with MMPA leadership and a tour of Heritage Ridge Creamery located in Middlebury, Indiana. Our trip will conclude with a farm tour of Hood Farms Family Dairy in Paw Paw, Michigan.

REGISTER ONLINE: conta.cc/2RoNb1U Or call 248-471-2135.

Space is limited to the first 50 people.

HOTEL RESERVATIONS: 800-545-4725 MORE INFORMATION: mimilk.com/YCTour

MIMILK.COM

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