Michigan Milk Messenger: December 2015

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

MESSENGER VOL. 98 | ISSUE 6 | DECEMBER 2015

Bacteria Counts 101 Highlights from the

NDB /NMPF/UDIA Joint Annual Meeting

Michigan Milk

MESSENGER Columns 4 MMPA Matters Wrapping up a Challenging 2015

6 Quality Watch Managing Udder Health through the Cold Winter Months

8 News & Views

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10 Legislative Watch

December Features 12 A Dairywoman, A Daddy’s Girl Top Ten OYDC Ryan and Laura Yoder

14 Legacy of Leadership Highlights from the NDB/NMPF/UDIA Joint Annual Meeting 16 NMPF Young Cooperators

Conference

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20 Dairy Plant Food

Safety Workshop

Managing Editor................................................ Sheila Burkhardt

41310 Bridge Street

Editor...............................................................................Allison Stuby

P.O. Box 8002

f: 248-474-0924

Advertising Manager......................................Nancy Muszynski

Novi, MI 48376-8002

w: www.mimilk.com

p: 248-474-6672

Circulation..................................................................................... 2,843 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.

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MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

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

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

(ISSN 0026-2315)

26 22 Bacteria Counts 101

Departments

Cover Story

Raw Bacteria, Pre Incubated and Lab Pasteurized Counts

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Merchandise

The beautiful winter

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Quality Premiums

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Freeliners

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Classifieds

their families and their

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Policies

cows a wonderful holiday

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Market Report

season. Merry Christmas!

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Staff

Cover image by Bonnie Mohr.

26 Long Hours,

Loving Family Top Ten OYDC

Brentt and Michelle Lucas 28 Fuel Up to Play 60:

Rally for School Health A Dairy Farmer’s Perspective

months of the Midwest are about to commence.

MMPA wishes all members,

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

Board of Directors Officers

Directors-At-Large Ken Nobis, St. Johns............................989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 201 Rodney Daniels, Whittemore......................................................... 989-756-4935

Ken Nobis, President

Dan Javor, Hastings...................................................................... 269-948-8345

Mark Halbert, Vice President

Mark Halbert, Battle Creek.......................................................... 269-964-0511

Eric Frahm, Treasurer Joe Diglio, General Manager/ Secretary Josep Barenys, Assistant Treasurer Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

James Reid, Jeddo........................................................................ 810-327-6830

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. Brent Wilson, Carson City......................................................... 989-584-3481 6. Tony Jandernoa, Fowler............................................................ 989-593-2224 7. Eric Frahm, Frankenmuth.......................................................... 989-652-3552 8. Leonard Brown, Sandusky......................................................... 810-648-4505

DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

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MMPA MATTERS

Wrapping up a Challenging 2015

BY KEN NOBIS, PRESIDENT

We are about to put 2015 in the history book. We are wrapping up another year in our dairy business as we think about wrapping gifts for our families and friends. Yes, it is December. We are all busy preparing for Christmas, family gatherings and good times to celebrate the true meaning of the season.

This month also marks the beginning of MMPA’s Local Annual meeting season, a great opportunity for all MMPA members to meet face to face with the leadership of their co-op.

2015 has been a challenging year. Price declines of roughly 33 percent have had negative impacts on our producers. With prices in free fall as they were through about two thirds of 2015, inventory write downs contributed heavily to negative Producer Price Differentials (PPDs). An ever-growing supply of milk has placed processing capacity challenges on dairy co-ops from the upper Midwest to New England to the Southeast regions of the U.S. MMPA is no exception, nor are we alone. The rapid growth in milk production in our market area has been a challenge for all dairy co-ops. If you want to know the story behind the story, come to your local annual meeting.

“The rapid growth in milk production in our market area has been a challenge for all dairy co-ops.

If you want to know the story behind the story, come to your local annual meeting.”

We know the milk supply will continue to grow in 2016 and we have plans in place to deal with the continued growth. Dealing with the growth isn’t as simple as building additional processing capacity—ultimately we need a viable market for whatever product we process. I believe MMPA has dealt with the supply issue very well. We continue to find markets for our members’ milk under challenging conditions.

Members who are interested in these issues would benefit from a further look at the details behind MMPA’s actions to control the situations. What better place to get those answers than the Local Annual meeting? Even in this age of multiple methods of communications, there is no more effective method of successful communication than personal contact. The Local Annual meeting provides a forum to address the questions that you have been asking.

Every year we improve the efficiency of information delivery at our annual meetings, even though we know that we can’t possibly cover every topic that is pertinent to our industry.

We try to address the more prominent issues that affect our members’ bottom lines, and then we respond to questions from members at the meeting to cover topics that are of special interest to that geographic area. For example, challenges facing members in the western Upper Peninsula may not be the same as those facing members in southwestern Michigan. Participating in your local annual meeting is an essential way to keep yourself informed.

Belonging to a strong dairy co-op is necessary in order to extract as much value as possible from the market place, and building and maintaining a strong co-op requires owner involvement. I think it is gratifying that members place as much trust in our elected leaders as they do, but members still have a responsibility to keep themselves informed about the business side of our organization.

December marks the end of another season of growing and harvesting crops, but dairy farmers never stop harvesting. We keep harvesting milk from our cows every day of the year. But the days aren’t quite so hectic, allowing us to gather together at our local annual meetings to reflect on what went right and what went wrong this year and what can we do differently to be better next year.

In the meantime, best wishes for a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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QUALITY WATCH

Managing Udder Health through the Cold Winter Months

BY LYNDSAY EARL, MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE

T

he cold winter months are quickly approaching, and with winter brings cold weather and dry, chapped teats. Dry, chapped teats can be more prone to infection due to bacteria making themselves at home in the cracks of the teat skin, allowing them easy access into the teat if proper precautions are not taken to remove them prior to unit attachment. By preventing teats from becoming dry and cracked, we can avoid some of these new infections before they occur. Consider implementing the following practices on your farm to aid in a smooth transition into and throughout the winter months.

Plan ahead – Don’t wait until the weather is frigid to start planning for winter. As we all know, the weather can turn cold quickly so we must be prepared. Start using dips with higher emollients before the temperatures drop to help condition the teat skin and prepare it for winter. The emollients act as lotions and help keep the teat skin soft and smooth. Smoother teat skin means less places for bacteria to live.

Take a look at housing – Clean, dry bedding is important year round, but especially important

“You can’t control the harsh winter weather, but you can prepare for it. Careful attention to the details listed at right may help you survive the winter with happy cows and healthy teats.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING POST DIPS SOLD THROUGH THE MMPA WAREHOUSE, CONTACT THE MOUNT PLEASANT WAREHOUSE AT 989-317-8370.

during the winter months. Wet bedding could be detrimental to udder health and teat condition and can also allow for the bedding to freeze in the stalls. Stalls should be monitored closely and may have to be refreshed more often to keep them dry and comfortable. Special care should be taken for first lactation cows and any cows with udder edema. These conditions reduce the blood flow to the udder and increase her chances of getting frostbite or chapped teats.

Windbreaks are extremely important during the winter months. Whether there are curtains, walls or a temporary stack of straw bales, windbreaks can be very beneficial to reduce the risk of frostbite teats.

Don’t skip the dip – Some may think that it is good practice to skip the dip in extremely cold

temperatures to avoid frostbite, but contrary to this belief, it is a HUGE mistake even on the coldest days. Cows can handle temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit as long as preventative measures are taken to reduce wind chills in the housing areas and walkways. It is recommended to continue normal dipping practices throughout the winter, however, on extremely cold days extra precautions should be taken. After applying the post dip, wait 30 seconds to allow time for the dip to dry. Then use a clean towel to blot the excess dip off and dry the teat. Although this may add extra time onto milking, remember, it is only necessary on extremely cold days as long as preventative measures are taken to reduce wind chills in the housing areas and walkways.

Consider your dip options – Consider using a post dip with at least 10 percent skin conditioners

(emollients). These post dips help protect the teats from bacteria between milkings and also condition the skin to keep it smooth and healthy. When applying the dip, make sure to cover the entire teat (teat sides and teat ends) for it to be most effective.

Some farms opt for a dry powdered teat dip during the cold winter months. These dips can be effective, but can be difficult to apply with good effective teat coverage.

Use salves and ointments with caution – Preventing dry chapped teats is ideal, but sometimes not always possible. For cows that develop chapped teats, it may be necessary to use salves or ointments to treat the teats. These treatment options may be used sparingly to help improve teat skin condition.

Caution should be taken when using these products to prevent the spread of mastitis causing bacteria via the milker’s hands during application.

Storage of dip – Regardless of what kind of dip you decided to use, storage is very important.

The dip must be stored in a place where it will not freeze. Freezing may cause the emollients and germicides to separate resulting in a dip that is not as effective. The ingredients cannot be remixed with any great success on the farm.

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& VIEWS NEWS &NEWS VIEWS

MMPA Among Top 100 Agricultural Cooperatives, Top 10 Milk Cooperatives MMPA is one of two Michigan agricultural cooperatives on the USDA’s annual list of the nation’s top 100 agricultural cooperatives by business volume. MMPA saw revenues increase from $957 million in 2013 to $1.153 billion in 2014, moving them up the list from 34th to 26th place. MMPA also recently moved up from 11th to 10th largest dairy cooperative in the nation, in terms of annual milk production volume.

The only other Michigan-based cooperative who made the list of top 100 agricultural cooperatives was Michigan Sugar Company, taking 76th place.

“The nation’s co-ops are essential to the U.S. economy and to rural America,” USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack stated. “The income they generate is reinvested or returned to members who spend it in their local communities. USDA is proud to continue its support of the cooperative movement.”

The total number of agriculture cooperatives declined from 2,186 in 2013 to 2,106 last year, a drop of nearly 4 percent. Despite the decline, co-op memberships grew by 1 percent, to just under 2 million.

Sign Up Now for MMPA Merck Dairy CARE Workshops!

MMPA Commemorates One Century with Anniversary Logo As 2015 comes to a close, MMPA will soon begin the cooperative’s 100th year.

Merck Animal Health—in collaboration with MMPA—will be offering Dairy

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C.A.R.E. Workshops across Michigan this December. The workshops will

Founded on May 23, 1916 at

offer attendees resources they need to maintain sound policies, develop standard operating procedures and ensure employees are properly trained. Content was developed with input from veterinarians, university experts and dairy producers and is geared toward helping farmers comply with components of the National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) program. Contact Marianne Gasiewski at 248-474-6672, ext. 215 or gasiewski@mimilk.com for more information or to register.

Michigan Agricultural College

Monday, December 1

Thursday, December 17

» 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

» 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Farmstead Inn & Conference Center

Alpine Lodge

Shipshewana, Indiana

Gaylord, Michigan

» 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

» 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Zimmerman Training Room

Holiday Inn Big Rapids

Allegan, Michigan

Big Rapids, Michigan

Tuesday, December 15

Friday, December 18

» 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

» 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Freedom Township Hall

Sullivan’s Black Forest

Manchester, Michigan

Frankenmuth, Michigan

» 5:30-8:30 p.m.

» 5:30-8:30 p.m.

AgroLiquid Headquarters

Lapeer Tech Center

St. Johns, Michigan

Attica, Michigan

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

(now Michigan State University), MMPA has spent the last century serving dairy farmers in the Great Lakes region. In celebration of the anniversary, MMPA will be using a special, limited-time logo throughout 2016 before embarking on the next century as a cooperative.

October Class III Price Down, Class IV Up The USDA announced October’s Class III milk price is $15.46 per cwt., down 36 cents from September, and $8.36 below October 2014’s price. The October Class IV price is $16.43, up $1.35 from September but $4.92 below a year ago.

Upcoming Events December Local meetings begin

December 16 Advisory Committee Meeting, Novi

January 28 Resolutions Committee Meeting, Novi

February 4-6 Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference, Mt. Pleasant

NMPF Board Advances Phase-Out of Tail Docking The board of the National Milk Producers Federation set January 1, 2017, as the date for dairy farmers participating in the industry’s Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Animal Care Program to phase out the routine practice of tail docking.

“While tail docking may be contentious for some, our producers have a great story to tell when it comes to animal care,” said Mulhern. “It is crucial that we share these stories and discuss animal care in a way that connects our values with those of our customers and consumers.”

At the Federation’s annual meeting in Orlando, Florida, the board approved a resolution hastening the previously established 2022 deadline for discontinuing tail docking. The resolution will be incorporated into the dozens of animal care measures designed for the FARM Program to ensure the consistent, optimal care of dairy cows in the United States.

NMPF started the FARM Animal Care Program in 2009 to highlight how much the dairy industry is doing to improve animal care. Dairy farmers supplying milk to dairy cooperatives and processors representing more than 90 percent of the nation’s milk supply now participate. The program demonstrates the commitment dairy producers have to providing quality care to their cows. MMPA is set to achieve 100 percent enrollment in the FARM program by Dec. 31.

Producers Scoring 95 percent of more on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Ratings October 2015 Joseph E / Ida Mae Delagrange* James J / Sarah D Delagrange Naaman Martin Howard F Lambright Herman F Mast Clyde S Miller John W Yoder David Lavon Miller David J Beechy Orla F Miller John A Bontrager Ferman R Bontrager Devon J Miller* Verlin R Miller* John H Bontrager Dennis E Miller Eli I Kuhns Aaron N Miller* Harvey J / Lamar H Yoder *100 percent DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

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LEGISLATIVE WATCH

House Panel Approves NMPF-Backed Amendment Allowing Increased Truck Weight Limits for Milk Hauling The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee approved legislation backed by the National Milk Producers Federation allowing states to increase truck weights so that milk is shipped as quickly and as efficiently as possible.

The bipartisan amendment, offered by New York Republican Richard Hanna and Connecticut Democrat Elizabeth Esty, was added to a transportation bill that could reach the House floor later this fall. It was approved on a voice vote.

“Today’s amendment recognizes the unique needs of hauling milk,” said NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “Milk is extremely perishable. Both the supply of it coming from farms, and the daily intake needs of processing plants, can fluctuate unpredictably. As a result, milk handling requirements sometimes conflict with limits on truck weights.”

To solve the problem, the Hanna-Esty amendment gives states the option to issue permits allowing milk haulers to increase their truck weights beyond Interstate Highway System limits. The permits would still need to comply with each state’s trucking laws.

“Timing is critical in moving milk to market,” Mulhern added. “This amendment recognizes the specific challenges in transporting milk and allows states to ensure that milk is delivered in a timely fashion while adhering to all transportation and food safety standards.”

Mulhern thanked Representatives Hanna and Esty for sponsoring the amendment and urged the House to take up the highway bill as soon as possible.

“Timing is critical in moving milk to market. This amendment recognizes the specific challenges in transporting milk and allows states to ensure that milk is delivered in a timely fashion while adhering to all transportation and food safety standards.”

—Jim Mulhern, NMPF President and CEO

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Full Text of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement Released

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he National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council welcomed the release of the full text of the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement by the Obama administration. The TPP dairy provisions are extremely important to the nation’s dairy industry since today we export nearly 14 percent of all U.S. milk production.

NMPF and USDEC are carefully reviewing the text and will comment when the details have been fully assessed.

There are thousands of tariff lines, hundreds of new rules, new chapters on Sanitary and Phytosanitary requirements, as well as a whole new chapter on protecting common food names.

In addition, there are several side letters with exemptions, clarifications and concessions.

All must be thoroughly reviewed before we can make a more informed determination of the final impact of the agreement on the U.S. dairy industry, and are able to determine whether or not we recommend that members of Congress support the agreement.

Once again, we express our thanks to the U.S. negotiators for their work, and to the many members of Congress who joined us in urging a balanced dairy market access outcome to the negotiations.

A Dairywoman, A Daddy’s Girl MMPA TOP TEN OYDC RYAN AND LAURA YODER

BY ALLISON STUBY

Down in Middlebury, Indiana, Laura Yoder works on her family farm driven by two loves: a love for working with her dad, and a love for dairy. Laura and her husband, Ryan, placed in the Top 10 in the MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator program in 2015.

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MyBrook Farm was founded in 1896 and Laura is the 5th generation working for her father and grandfather, Michael and Myron Oesch, who own the farm in a partnership.

Laura began helping in the fields when she was 10 and returned to the farm after she completed a degree in agricultural economics from Purdue University in 2006. Today, Laura is in charge of herd health, calf care, registers the cattle and helps out wherever

needed. Laura uses PCDART to keep track of information—including health, vaccinations and treatments— on their herd. She also is the farm’s point of contact with their veterinarian and enters the new herd health data into PCDART after each visit.

“My favorite part about working on the farm is being around the cows. I’m very passionate about our cows and taking care of the herd,” Laura attests.

The farm stays proactive with sustainable practices in their operation.

Their location along a busy road means they are more visible to the nonfarming public. In addition to recycling their plate cooler water for other purposes, they do grid soil sampling, have implemented buffer zones and use variable rate fertilizer.

Three years ago, the farm upgraded their TMR mixer to an automated Keenan feed mixer to customize rations for their herd. Their nutritionist uses the system to monitor the feed components and intake and make adjustments automatically through the Wi-Fi-enabled system. Laura and the family receive feed reports with breakdowns of rations to continually improve their milk production and monitor the herd.

But it’s clear the true driver of their motivation on the farm is family. “I love the generation aspect of working on the farm. I wanted to come back to the farm after college so I could be with my dad. I love working alongside him and the relationship we have,” Laura admits.

And MyBrook Farm truly is family operation with three—and sometimes four—generations working alongside each other at once. “Our family is very involved and our kids love being at the farm and helping with chores and feeding baby calves,” Laura said. “They are the 6th generation and we plan to make it feasible for them to farm.”

“I love the family aspect of farm life.

My kids are learning great work ethic and they enjoy helping out with their grandpa and great-grandpa,” Ryan adds. Ryan works off the farm as a middle school history teacher, but assists with farm chores and feeding calves when help is needed.

With a focus on family, and a true love for cows, Laura is truly a dairywoman and a daddy’s girl.

Ryan and Laura Yoder of MyBrook Farm Constantine Local, District 2 Children: Hudson (6), Hadley (4) and Harper (2) Herd Size: 170 milking, 200 total Acres farmed: 400 Crops grown: soybeans, wheat, rye, alfalfa, grass hay Milking regime: twice-a-day in a double six parallel parlor Sustainable practices: Recycle plate cooler water, grid soil sampling, variable rate fertilizer, cover crops, buffer strips Breeding program: Ovsynch timed AI bred heifers and cows, clean up bulls for problem cows and the Northstar High-Type Mating Program.

Certifications/Training: FARM Program, Milker Training School, Progressive Breeder Award Education: Laura graduated from Northridge High School and went on to obtain a degree in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University.

Ryan is a middle school history teacher and graduated from Westview Junior/Senior High School and Indiana-Purdue University of Fort Wayne with a degree in secondary education.

Ag, Dairy and Community involvement: Ryan and Laura volunteer at Sunday school for their local church and help coach local sports team. The farm often hosts farm tours for elementary school kids from neighboring cities.

DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

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A Legacy of LEADERSHIP HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2015 NDB/NMPF/UDIA JOINT ANNUAL MEETING

The 2015 joint annual meeting of the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board (NDB), United Dairy Industry Association (UDIA) and National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) brought together dairy producers, member cooperatives, Young Cooperators (YCs), industry representatives and staff to Orlando, Florida on October 25-28.

The conference involved various speeches, reports, banquets, general sessions and town hall meetings to work toward the good of the dairy industry. The full roster of topics and speakers covered a wide range from policy issues to consumer demands to insights for the future. In addition to two days of the general session, the meeting began with a program geared toward Young Cooperators. Learn more about this conference from 2015 OYDC Shawn and Beth VanDrie on page 16.

Here are three highlights from the joint annual meeting:

1. Animal care continues to be a major issue on the minds of consumers.

On the first day of the general session, NMPF Vice President of Animal Care Emily Meredith hosted a conversation on the shared expectations between well-known food brands and dairy producers on the subject of animal care. Panelists claimed they often hear from “hyper-conscious” consumers who want to understand how their food is produced and if animals are treated humanely. The panelists noted the benefits of the FARM Program, and how it has improved the company’s relationship with their suppliers. They also applauded the recent decision NMPF made regarding tail docking.

During the annual meeting, the NMPF board of directors voted to phase out tail docking by January 1, 2017—accelerating by five years the previously established 2022 deadline. The resolution will be incorporated into dozens of animal care measures designed for the FARM Program to ensure the consistent, optimal care of dairy cows in the United States.

2. A new organization—Newtrient, LLC—seeks to drive innovation of new technology in sustainability on dairy farms, according to DMI. Newtrient was formed in July by Dairy Management Inc. (DMI), NMPF and 12 cooperatives including MMPA. During the general session of the conference, a panel of Newtrient stakeholders explained the new company and fielded questions from dairy professionals in attendance.

According to Tom Gallagher, CEO of DMI, Newtrient is designed to accelerate the development and availability of a variety of technologies that help dairy farmers capture the nutrients in manure and create value from waste. The new company will also provide education, counseling and consultation to farmers, and will explore innovative approaches such as technology-based nutrient trading.

3. The “Legacy of Leadership” spans 100 years. NMPF and National Dairy Council celebrated their 100 year anniversaries at the joint annual meeting this year.

The U.S. Dairy Export Council and DMI—programs administered by NDB—also achieved 20 years of operation, achievements recognized at the joint annual meeting.

Jim Mooney, CEO of NMPF, and Randy Mulhern, Chairman of NMPF gave a joint presentation to mark the beginning of NMPF’s 100th year, as the organization was founded in Chicago in 1916.

TOP: NMPF CEO JIM MULHERN, NMPF BOARD CHAIRMAN RANDY MOONEY AND NMPF FIRST VICE CHAIR KEN NOBIS ADDRESSED MEMBER COOPERATIVES IN A NMPF DELEGATE MEETING HELD DURING THE JOINT ANNUAL MEETING. PHOTO CREDIT: NMPF

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The presentation highlighted the accomplishments of NMPF in the past century. The leaders noted NMPF’s recorded numerous legislative victories, including enactment of the Capper-Volstead Act in 1922, and the establishment of federal milk marketing orders in the 1930s. It was instrumental in the creation of the dairy price support program in the 1940s and convinced Congress to create the mandatory dairy check-off program in the 1980s.

“As our work today demonstrates, leadership is a journey, not a destination,” Mooney said. “It’s not just a word on a piece of paper; leadership is the tangible result of hard work.”

MMPA Takes Home National Communications Awards Every year, NMPF recognizes the communications efforts of the organization’s 30 member cooperatives nationwide. This year, MMPA received a total of seven awards in the areas of public relations, writing, design and publications. The Michigan Milk Messenger took home the first place prize in the member magazine category.

The communications team at MMPA was also honored with the Outstanding Achievement in Communications award.

The award is given to a cooperative employee or team who demonstrates outstanding achievement in various fields of communication to advance the interests and objectives of America’s dairy farmers. Sheila Burkhardt and Allison Stuby, of the MMPA member relations department, accepted the award in Orlando, Florida on October 25.

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2015 NMPF Young Cooperators Conference

BY BETH VANDRIE, 2015 MMPA OYDC

A

fter a balmy week spent in Orlando, Florida I can attest that it truly is the sunshine State. We enjoyed the tropical reprieve from our dropping temperatures in Michigan, but we brought home more than a tan from our experience at the National Milk Producers Federation’s (NMPF) Young Cooperators (YC) conference. The YC conference was held during the NDB/NMPF/UDIA Joint Annual Meeting in late October.

We were privileged to attend this year’s meeting with 2014 OYDC Brian and Carrie Preston and the 2015 OYDC Runners-Up Darren and Regina Coffey. We joined over 40 other YC’s from different Cooperatives all over the nation to gain insight into the function of the NMPF and current issues that are facing dairy.

In true Florida spirit, we kicked off the YC conference on Sunday with a pool party. We got to meet a very diverse group of YC’s and learn about the different dairy farms we had come from.

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MESSENGER | DECEMBER December 2015 2015

Complete with hot fudge ice cream sundaes to help us mingle and cultivate new friendships.

On Monday we jumped into our first meeting with speakers from farm credit agencies. Gary Matteson from Farm Credit Council in Washington D.C. advised us to be prepared for change. “Everything you are doing as a young famer will be different when you are a senior, ” he attested. He used comparisons from his life in agriculture to demonstrate that we should have a tangible plan to succeed both financially and to be happy while achieving our goals.

Jon Zander from Badgerland Financial in Mondovi, Wisconsin also highlighted what lenders are looking for in this volatile milk price era. He spoke on the 5 C’s of lending: Character, Capital, Capacity, Collateral and Conditions. What I took to heart from this first session was when Gary Matteson said, “You may inherit assets, but you’ll never inherit management skills; you need to earn those.” I felt a sense of responsibility to further commit myself to be not only a better farmer, but a better business manager too.

Our next speaker was Dr. Ron Hanson from the University of Nebraska and his insight into farm succession was very applicable for many of us YC’s. He started off with his personal story that was raw and emotion driven, and had everyone in the room engaged. He took us through potential obstacles with both the senior generation and our own peers that make passing the farm

legacy challenging. One of my favorite quotes was, “Goals without deadlines are dreams.” Communication is the key to a successful business transfer and this was well represented in the panel that Dr. Hanson had assembled. We had the opportunity to hear from three different farm families from around the U.S. that had undergone farm succession and remained prosperous and intact as a family unit.

We enjoyed a lunch break and then continued on to the next topic: “Using Agility and Empathy to Communicate with Consumers.”

This was led by Jeff Fromm with FutureCast and Carolyn Cohen with Barkley. They had a unique perception on today’s consumers and encouraged us to transfer from storytelling into “storyliving.”

Storyliving is important to connect with people’s emotions, educate, inspire and be relevant to our current culture.

This led perfectly into my favorite topic of the day, Social Media Training. It was on my heart to start my own Facebook page for my farm, but getting started has always seemed daunting. With the skills and resources that Don Schindler and Jamie Vander Molen with Dairy Management, Inc. shared I now feel confident to represent my farm authentically online.

We finished out the day with a discussion on milk pricing led by Dr. John Newton with the National Milk Producers Federation.

He educated us on current market situations and a forecast for the next couple years that seems gloomy at best. He also gave insight into the Margin Protection Program and how it is best utilized as a catastrophic insurance policy.

I feel that the information that I received at the YC program was invaluable to me not only for today, but for my future as well.

I attained a wider breadth of knowledge about NMPF and its importance to having a sustainable dairy market. I’m confident that belonging to this group allows my voice to be heard on Capitol Hill and that my interests are represented well. We are refreshed, have a bit of color and ready to persevere with our fellow dairymen and women!

PAGE 16: IN ATTENDANCE AT THE NMPF YC CONFERENCE (LEFT TO RIGHT): 2014 OYDC BRIAN & CARRIE PRESTON, 2015 OYDC SHAWN & BETH VANDRIE AND 2015 OYDC RUNNERS-UP DARREN & REGINA COFFEY. PAGE 17: RYAN BENNETT (LEFT), NMPF YC COORDINATOR, PRESENTED 2014 OYDC CARRIE & BRIAN PRESTON WITH A COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE AT THE CLOSE OF THE CONFERENCE. THE PRESTONS SERVED ON THE NMPF YC COUNCIL FOR 2014-2015 AS THE CHAIR COUPLE. IN 2015-2016, 2015 OYDC SHAWN AND BETH VANDRIE WILL REPRESENT MMPA ON THE NMPF YC COUNCIL.

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Michigan Dairy Industry Leaders Emphasize

Food Safety, Collaboration

AT DAIRY PLANT FOOD SAFETY WORKSHOP In October, MMPA and Continental Dairy Facilities, LLC hosted 57 food safety professionals from around North America at a dairy plant food safety workshop in Coopersville, Michigan.

The workshop—designed by the International Dairy Foods Association and the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy—emphasized the importance of strengthening manufacturing practices in all dairy processing facilities to diminish food safety risk and protect the reputation of the dairy industry.

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is the right forum for companies like MMPA to share our best practices and to build cooperation among industry leaders,” MMPA General Manager Joe Diglio stated. “It takes a collaborative effort from everyone along the food chain to provide safe, quality food product to our customers and consumers. The commitment to food safety will only continue to grow going forward.”

The joint sponsorship of the workshop further showcased the theme of collaboration among dairy food processors emphasized during the event.

Industry experts taught the participants procedures related to achieving and maintaining superior food safety standards in their processing plant. The training—one of over 20 workshops held nationwide—involved hands-on activities related to food safety in dairy plants, with a special emphasis on dry powder.

“We believe food safety is not a trade secret and we openly share our best practices for the good of the dairy industry. This food safety workshop

By combining the expertise of food safety professionals from dairy cooperatives and manufacturers, plant employees in attendance learned

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

techniques to improve plant standards and foster a culture of food safety at their companies. MMPA Director of Quality Amandeep Dhillon was among the team of trainers leading the workshop.

To showcase continued commitment to food safety, MMPA, Continental Dairy Facilities, LLC and Leprino Foods also welcomed regulators from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to a food safety training on October 15. Dhillon spearheaded this training alongside Edith Wilkin from Leprino Foods and Ron Thompson from Continental Dairy Facilities, in an effort to foster positive relations with regulators and increase transparency.

TOP: MMPA GENERAL MANAGER JOE DIGLIO AND CONTINENTAL DAIRY FACILITIES COO AND GENERAL MANAGER STEVE COOPER MET IN COOPERSVILLE FOR THE DAIRY PLANT FOOD SAFETY WORKSHOP IN OCTOBER. BOTH LEADERS ADDRESSED THE GROUP, EMPHASIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF FOOD SAFETY AND QUALITY IN DAIRY PROCESSING.

2015-2016 Local Meetings The information listed below was availiable at press time. All members will receive complete meeting details in the invitation from their local.

Local

Mtg. Date

Place

Location

Time

Barry-Eaton/Lansing

12/05/2015

Grace Community Church

Nashville

12:00 p.m.

Kalamazoo

12/08/2015

Old Country Buffet

Kalamazoo

11:15 a.m.

Upstate

12/08/2015

Ellsworth Christian Reformed Church

Ellsworth

11:00 a.m.

Sunrise

12/09/2015

Klacking Twp. Hall

West Branch

11:45 a.m.

U.P. West Central

12/09/2015

Home Base Restaurant

Shaffer

12:00 p.m.

Chippewa County

12/10/2015

Rudyard Christian Reformed Church

Rudyard

12:00 p.m.

Muskegon

01/04/2016

Russ’ Banquet Room

Muskegon

11:30 a.m.

Flint/Livingston Charter/Owosso

01/06/2016

Gi Gi’s Banquet Center

Corunna

12:00 p.m.

Grand Rapids

01/06/2016

Golden Corral

Walker

11:45 a.m.

Evart

01/07/2016

Rehoboth Reformed Church

McBain

11:00 a.m.

Mid-Michigan

01/07/2016

Agro Liquid Headquarters

St. Johns

11:45 a.m.

Hillman

01/08/2016

Hillman Community Center

Hillman

11:30 a.m.

Alma

01/08/2016

Maxfield’s

Blanchard

11:00 a.m.

Constantine

01/09/2016

Siloam Fellowship

Goshen, Ind.

10:30 a.m.

Huron

01/09/2016

Franklin Inn

Bad Axe

11:30 a.m.

Deford/Clifford-Mayville

01/11/2016

The Oven

Caro

12:00 p.m.

Frankenmuth

01/12/2016

Sullivan’s Black Forest

Frankenmuth

12:00 p.m.

Adrian

01/12/2016

UAW Hall

Adrian

12:00 p.m.

Jackson County Plus

01/13/2016

Gene Davis and Sons Catering

Jackson

12:00 p.m.

Dairyland

01/14/2016

St. Mary’s Hall

Carson City

12:00 p.m.

Clare-Mt. Pleasant

01/15/2016

Clare Church of the Nazarene

Clare

11:00 a.m.

Saline-Ann Arbor

01/19/2016

Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds

Ann Arbor

12:00 p.m.

Mid-Sanilac

01/20/2016

Blossomland

01/22/2016

Zeke’s Restaurant

Dowagiac

12:00 p.m.

Hillsdale-Litchfield

TBD

Ingham County

TBD

Mid-Thumb

TBD

West Michigan

TBD

POWER of the Past. » VISION for the Future.

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MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

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Raw Bacteria Count (RBC) Overview: The raw milk test is tested on the

Bacteria Counts 101 RAW BACTERIA, PRE INCUBATED

and LAB PASTEURIZED COUNTS

BactoScan. The BactoScan is an instrument that electronically measures the bacteria levels in milk.

Prior to being tested, the sample is maintained at 32 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Testing frequency: Once per month minimum,

tested more frequently by request.

Premiums: Premium of 5 cents per cwt. is added

if raw result is equal to or below 10,000 Colony Forming Units (cfu) per millimeter (mL). There will be a deduction of 10 cents per cwt. for a raw result greater than 100,000 cfu/mL. For more information on premiums, see page 33.

The required test performed each month is also a regulatory test. The bacteria count for each producer is shared with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development as a requirement of holding a Grade A permit. It is illegal to sell milk with a RBC greater than 100,000 cfu/mL. Ways to improve results on the farm:

From Somatic Cell Counts (SCC) to Bacteria Counts (Raw and PI) to component testing, the multitude of tests to be performed on milk samples seem to be endless. At times, SCC may seem like the end-all be-all for milk quality, yet there are many more tests used to determine quality and the pay price on your milk check. Bacteria counts—on raw, pre-incubated,

High RBC results can be related to poor cooling in the bulk tank; warmer temperatures allow bacteria to multiply faster than cooler temperatures.

Dirty milking equipment can also impact these counts. It is also important to ensure udder prep is satisfactory. On rare occasions, a cow can shed enough bacteria in her milk to elevate this count, these cows can be identified by a high SCC.

and lab pasteurized milk—are tests performed by the Novi laboratory to help determine milk quality.

Further, these tests are becoming increasingly

n Excellent

Less than 1,000-3,000 cfu/mL

n Good

4,000-5,000 cfu/mL

n Warning

5,000-10,000 cfu/mL

important indicators in the dairy industry as customer demands continue to evolve.

Here are the ABC’s of the LPC and bacteria tests, what they mean, and how you can improve your results:

n Action Needed 20,000 cfu/mL and above

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MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

Pre Incubated Count (PIC)

Lab Pasteurized Counts (LPC)

Overview: To perform this test, the milk sample

Overview: The LPC is the number of bacteria

is pre-incubated at 55 degrees Fahrenheit for 18 hours prior to testing it on the BactoScan. The 55 degrees Fahrenheit incubation is an optimal growth temperature for psychrotrophic (coldloving) bacteria. An elevated result could indicate the presence of a spoilage organism.

per ml of milk which survive laboratory pasteurization at 143 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes. Thermoduric Bacteria can survive pasteurization because they have developed mechanisms to resist heat and other lethal agents such as sanitizers. Most of these bacteria have an ability to create a protective form called a spore that is very tough to kill. When looking at the results in the mailer or on the MMPA website, this test is referred to as “PAST.�

Testing frequency: Once per month minimum,

tested more frequently by request.

Premiums: Premium of 5 cents per cwt. is added

if PI result is equal to or below 20,000 cfu/mL. For more information on premiums, see page 33.

PI is not a regulatory test.

Ways to improve results on the farm:Hot

water used for Clean In Place (CIP) milking equipment should be 160-180 degrees Fahrenheit at the faucet, as milking equipment cleanliness is critical to achieving a good score on this test.

Key places to check for cleanliness of milking equipment include: receiver, milking claws, inflations, swingline and bulk tank. The bulk tank should also be cooled to less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit within one hour of the end of milking.

Elevated temperatures allow bacteria to multiply more quickly. Poor udder prep can elevate bacteria levels as well, be sure to check the filter sock after each milking shift, a clean sock with little debris will reflect adequate udder prep.

n Excellent

Less than 1,000-3,000 cfu/mL

n Good

4,000-5,000 cfu/mL

n

Warning

Testing frequency: LPC tests are performed

by request of the member. Several customers also request/require LPC results on all members serving their facility.

Premiums: LPC is not a regulatory test and there

is currently no premium for LPC results.

Ways to improve score on the farm:

Prevent higher LPC results by checking the rubber components of equipment, such as milk hoses and line gaskets, for cracks and cleanliness. Any leaky gaskets should be replaced immediately.

Along with system leaks, care should be taken to minimize the introduction of air into the milk cluster when attaching them to cows. As rubber parts age, cracks start to form and bacteria collects in those cracks. Overall cleanliness of equipment can also improve results. Extended milking time of eight hours or more can lead to higher LPC results because the longer milking period creates a warmer environment for bacteria to multiply quickly. It is important to change the filter sock every four to five hours and perform at least two complete washes every 24 hours.

5,000-10,000 cfu/mL n Excellent

Less than 10-30 cfu/mL

n Action Needed 20,000 cfu/mL and above Good

30-50 cfu/mL

n Warning

50-200 cfu/mL

n

n Action Needed 200 cfu/mL and above

DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

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REGISTER TODAY!

MMPA Milker Training School Gears Up for 2016

2016 Milker Training School Dates and Locations: Registration: 9:30 a.m.

Program: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lunch included with $10 registration fee.

MMPA Milker Training School (MTS) continues to serve members by helping establish best milking practices on the farm through comprehensive training.

The training sessions aid in improving milk quality and reducing mastitis infections through education on the best milking techniques.

January 26

The recommended milking procedures are based on science and experience proven data to help milk cows quickly, comfortably and with reduced chances of spreading mastitis pathogens cow-to-cow. Following MTS practices will reduce chances of mastitis infections while also reducing the chances of high raw and PI bacteria counts and lowering coliform counts. MTS discusses how managers can monitor bulk tank coliform counts for lapses in protocol, observe filter socks to gauge successful cleaning of teats and teat ends and identify and remove clinical mastitis cases from the milking string.

February 18

MTS fulfills the National Dairy FARM Program guidelines of providing yearly training to animal caretakers on your farm. Each person completing the training session will receive a certificate of participation.

March 15 (Spanish)

To register, complete and return the form below to: MMPA Milker Training School – Member Services Department P.O. Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376

March 16 (English)

You may also register via phone or email. Contact: Marianne Gasiewski at 248-474-6672 or gasiewski@mimilk.com A $10 registration fee will be deducted from your milk check to cover lunch and material costs.

Lapeer County Tech Center 690 N. Lake Pleasant Rd. Attica, MI

At Steve Miller’s Farm 4740 W. 400 S. Topeka, IN

March 2 County Building 800 Livingston Blvd.

Gaylord, MI

Agro Liquid Headquarters 1130 S. DeWitt Rd. St. Johns, MI

Agro Liquid Headquarters 1130 S. DeWitt Rd. St. Johns, MI

April 19 Polkton Township Hall 6900 Arthur St. Coopersville, MI

MMPA Milker Training School Registration __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Name __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Producer Permit Number __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Date & Location of Session Number of people attending

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MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

MMPA Advisory Committee District 1 Art Riske, Hanover............................................... 517-524-6015 Clark Emmons, Fayette, OH................................ 419-452-6764 Jeff Alexander, Hanover....................................... 517-740-9981 Perry Cisco, Hudson............................................ 517-404-7997 Carlton Evans, Litchfield....................................... 517-398-0629

District 2 Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN.......................... 574-825-5198 Donald Bever, Delton........................................... 269-660-0498 Heather Wing, Bellevue........................................ 517-543-5577 Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN............................. 574-825-2454 Danny Ransler, Gobles........................................ 269-628-4218

District 3 Burke Larsen, Scottville........................................ 231-757-2090 Bill Stakenas, Freesoil.......................................... 231-757-9340 Gary Nelsen, Grant.............................................. 231-834-7610 Tim Butler, Sand Lake.......................................... 616-636-8567 Nico Eadie, Conklin.............................................. 616-550-4041

District 4 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard.................................... 906-478-3023 Russ Tolan, Ossineke........................................... 989-471-2993 Ron Lucas, Posen................................................ 989-379-4694 Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................................... 231-588-6084 Jeremy Werth, Herron.......................................... 989-464-4022

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MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

District 5 Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................................ 989-762-5399 Bruce Benthem, McBain....................................... 231-825-8182 Amy Martin, Leroy................................................ 231-388-0496 Mike Rasmussen, Edmore................................... 989-762-5380 Bill Jernstadt, Big Rapids..................................... 231-796-4650

District 6 Kris Wardin, St. Johns.......................................... 989-640-9420 Aaron Gasper, Lowell........................................... 616-897-2747 Steve Thelen, Fowler............................................ 989-640-1075 David Reed, Owosso............................................ 989-723-2023 Jamie Meyer, Ionia .............................................. 989-640-3372

District 7 Eric Bergdolt, Vassar............................................ 989-652-6500 Steve Foley, Millington.......................................... 989-871-4028 Rod Fowler, Chesaning........................................ 989-845-6131 John Bennett, Prescott......................................... 989-345-4264 Scott Kleinhardt, Clare......................................... 989-386-8037

District 8 Mike Bender, Croswell.......................................... 810-679-4782 Scott Lamb, Jeddo............................................... 810-404-8003 Mike Noll, Croswell............................................... 810-404-4071 Jeremy Sharrard, Peck......................................... 810-404-5076 Dale Phillips, Marlette........................................... 989-635-7917

At-Large Mark Crandall, Battle Creek................................. 269-660-2229 Tom Wing, Bellevue.............................................. 269-660-0498 Bill Blumerich, Berlin............................................ 810-395-2926 Chuck White, Fowlerville...................................... 517-521-3564

DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

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Long Hours, Loving Family MMPA TOP TEN OYDC BRENTT AND MICHELLE LUCAS

BY ALLISON STUBY

Working long hours with his eye on the future, Brentt Lucas is charging through a challenging 2015 with his family by his side. Brentt and his wife, Michelle, were named in the Top 10 Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators in the 2015 program.

Founded in 1954, Brentt is the 3rd generation of Lucases farming on Lucas Dairy Farms in Posen, Michigan.

The dairy is an LLC between Brentt, his parents, Ron and Connie, and brother Derek.

Like many farms, the operation centers on family. Michelle is a stay at home mom, but before kids she used to assist Brentt with chores out on the farm and still lends a hand when she has the time in the summer.

“Or farm is relatively small, so we get to work with mostly family. I love the family aspect to farm life. We hopefully want to pass the farm down to our kids. Our kids love being out on the farm with daddy and ‘Puppa,’ ” she smiles.

Brentt has worked on the farm since he was young and came back to the farm full time in 2002 after completing the dairy management program at Michigan State University. He now focuses on calves and young stock and manages cropping operations.

“I enjoy being able to answer to myself,” Brentt admits. “Every day is different, there are always new challenges.”

The farm underwent an expansion over the last 20 years. When Brentt was younger, they relied on a tie stall barn, milked around 40 cows and had no employees. Through the years, the farm gradually grew and they were milking around 70 cows in a stanchion barn.

In 2001, the Lucases expanded their 26

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

parlor to a double 10 parallel parlor and increased their herd size to 125 milk cows. They are currently milking 240 cows, but have room for 325 and plan to gradually expand as it makes sense economically.

Since hiring their first employee in 1995, a challenge the farm has begun to face is finding and maintaining reliable labor. Today, they have one part time and two full time employees.

But they’ve struggled to keep employees and even offer higher wages than neighboring farms. To help cut down on labor needs, they installed a new sorting rail a couple years ago, enabling one person to do a job that once took two. This also improved breeding practices and makes it easier to sort out the dry cows.

They also had to cut down milking fresh cows three times a day to twice per day when they weren’t able to find enough labor. Some of the labor issues have since been resolved and so they are back up to three times a day milking fresh cows this winter. Still, a shortage of labor means long hours for the Lucases as they work in dairy, a job only cut out for hardest of workers.

Brentt and Michelle Lucas of Lucas Dairy Farms Hillman Local, District 4 Children: Hailey (10), Landon (7) and Brayden (3). The Lucases also recently welcomed an exchange student fron South Korea, SuHyeon ‘‘Shay,” to their home.

Herd Size: 235 milking, 505 total Acres farmed: 1,100 Crops grown: corn, corn silage, haylage

The Lucases are currently working on MEAEP verification on their operation and have a Certified Nutrient Management Plan (CMNP). “For us, it’s about having good stewardship practices on our land. Working on the MAEAP verification also helped us keep better record on soil testing and manure applications. We haven’t had to make a lot of changes, we have just improved what we were already doing,” Brentt said.

Milking regime: twice-a-day in a double 10 parallel parlor, fresh cows are milked three times a day

When it comes down to it, the Lucas family is hard-working in the roundthe-clock dairy business, striving to do the best they can providing quality milk on their dairy in northern Michigan.

Ag, Dairy and Community involvement: Brentt was previously on the Alpena County Farm Bureau board and is currently on the Alpena County Soil District board. Both Michelle and Brentt work as a part of a fundraising group of parents to raise money for textbooks at Posen schools and donate dairy products to school functions. Michelle also holds a side business as a baker, baking and decorating cakes for people in their community.

Sustainable practices: Recycle plate cooler water, CMNP Breeding program: AI bred cows, clean-up bull Certifications/Training: FARM Program, MMPA Milker Training School, Zoetis Calf Care School, MMPA Energy Audit, in the process of completing MEAEP verification Education: Brentt and Michelle both graduated from Alpena High School.

Brentt also holds a two-year certification from the Michigan State University dairy management program.

DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

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Fuel Up to Play 60: Rally for School Health A Dairy Farmer’s Perspective

BY ASHLEY KENNEDY

I was asked to volunteer at the Fuel Up To Play 60 Rally for School Health as a referee. I had to think about it for all of five seconds before I knew I was going to say yes. After all, this event included going to Ford Field and doing activities down on the football field. Throw in we get to talk about drinking milk and eating dairy products, and I consider that a great day!

When the 30 schools started arriving at Ford Field early in the morning on Sept.

30, the excitement became undeniable.

The elementary and middle school kids were bouncing around thrilled to get their day started. Even though the day was supposed to be fun, there is more to it than the kids just having fun. The entire day focused around arming the kids with knowledge about eating healthy and exercising.

With retired professional Detroit Lions Herman Moore and Jason Hanson 28

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

talking about how eating a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of low-fat dairy products fuels their bodies for healthy living and exercise, the kids got geared up for the day. Jump with Jill taught kids about a balanced diet through high energy singing and dancing. They learned how to apply healthy tools to improve their school environment for fellow students. One of my favorite parts was learning about how to keep your brain active all day by either getting up and moving around regularly or by doing different brain activities that help engage both sides of the brain. I definitely could have used that when I was in school.

The highlight of the day was the 60 minutes of exercise down on Ford Field and the finale of doing a dance routine on the field with Jump with Jill. The Detroit Lions coaching staff did an amazing job of getting the kids active, making the exercise fun, interacting

with the kids in a relatable and keeping them moving. Just being down on the field was an amazing experience in itself but then to get to run drills with the Lion’s coaching staff, current players and retired players is something a kid will never forget.

From the perspective of a dairy farmer, I was thrilled to see all of these kids engaged and excited to learn about healthy eating and exercise. The impact this event can have is something I have never seen before. The committee takes the time to give kids takeaways they can use every day and teach them how to implement these ideas and techniques back home in their schools. The goal is to improve each school through student involvement.

If one of your local schools have never participated in the Rally for School Health, I highly encourage you to help them. If you would like more information about all of the Fuel Up to Play 60 activities in Michigan visit fueluptoplay60.com. Thank you to the Detroit Lions for hosting the group, to the United Dairy Industry of Michigan for asking me to participate and to the committee who helped plan this amazing event.

ASHLEY KENNEDY WORKS WITH HER FAMILY ON AN MMPA MEMBER FARM IN BAD AXE, MICHIGAN. THIS ARTICLE WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON ASHLEY’S BLOG, MESSY KENNEDY, AT MESSYKENNEDY.COM.

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

WORLD CHAMPION SWIMMER AND MICHIGAN NATIVE

Allison Schmitt Teams Up With UDIM

TO PROMOTE CHOCOLATE MILK & GOOD NUTRITION Michigan native and gold medal winning swimmer, Allison Schmitt, relies on low-fat chocolate milk to help fuel her recovery and deliver her best both in and out of the pool.

Schmitt is partnering with the United Dairy Industry of Michigan to promote chocolate milk and good nutrition to schools and student-athletes throughout Michigan. With many parents identifying chocolate milk as a ‘sometimes’ drink, this opportunity allows Schmitt to share how chocolate milk fits into her daily routine. As an advocate for living a healthy and active lifestyle, Schmitt knows the important role milk plays in growth and development because of the nine essential nutrients it provides.

“When I train and compete, I expend a lot of energy whether that be in the pool or weight room,” Schmitt said. “Low-fat chocolate milk is important to my routine and ability to refuel and rebuild. I rely on

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MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

chocolate milk to deliver the nutrients I need to compete at the highest level.”

Schmitt has amassed 18 medals in major international competition throughout her career including 12 gold, four silver and two bronze. In addition to being a world champion swimmer, Schmitt is passionate about giving back to the community and frequently visits schools and swimming organizations in her hometown of Canton, Michigan to inspire students with her message.

“We are proud to work with an athlete of Allison’s caliber in the promotion of chocolate milk. Her passion for sports and her infectious enthusiasm will translate well into our sports nutrition, school wellness and advertising programs,” says Sharon Toth, Chief Executive Officer of UDIM. “She also shares the values of our dairy farm families with a strong work ethic, commitment to excellence and family.”

About Allison Schmitt: Allison Schmitt, who is represented by Octagon, graduated from the University of Georgia as an 11-time NCAA champion, four-time national champion in the 200 and 500-yard freestyle swimming events, and helped guide the Bulldogs to a team title in 2013. The Honda Sports Awards winner in 2013 for swimming, given to the best female athlete in the country, obtained her degree in Psychology with a minor in Child & Family Development.

PICTURED BELOW: (LEFT TO RIGHT) LYNDA AND JEFF HORNING, ALLISON SCHMITT AND KATELYN HORNING TOAST WITH CHOCOLATE MILK ON A RECENT VISIT TO A MMPA MEMBER FARM, HORNING FARMS, WHERE ALLISON LEARNED ABOUT DAIRY PRODUCTION PRACTICES.

2015-2016 Local Officers Adrian Local

President: Clark Emmons V. President: Jim Marvin Sec/Treas: Gary Stout Dairy Communicators: Geraldine Emmons, Joy Marvin, Maria Marvin

Alma Local

President: Mike Rasmussen V. President: John Black Sec/Treas: Missy Prins Dairy Communicators: Cheri Chapin, Ramona Okkema, Missy Prins

Barry-Eaton Local

President: Tom Wing V. President: Bob Baker Sec/Treas: Sally Bivens Dairy Communicators: Heather Wing, Sally Bivens

Flint Local

President: Roger Bloss V. President: Peter Juengel Sec/Treas: Daniel Weil

Frankenmuth Local

President: Larry Niec V. President: Roger Keinath Sec/Treas: Bob Krafft Dairy Communicators: Barbara Wardin, Joanmarie Weiss, Margie Weiss, Debra Krafft, Beth Weiss

Grand Rapids Local

President: Tim Butler V. President: Jonathan Acker Sec/Treas: Ken Leseman Dairy Communicator: Kay Willcome

Hillman Local

Blossomland Local

President: Jerry Koebel, Jr Sec/Treas: Joshua Gamble

President: Corby Werth V. President: Jeremy Werth Sec/Treas: Ron Lucas Dairy Communicators: Katie Dellar, Connie Lucas, Janel Woodward

Chippewa County Local

Hillsdale-Litchfield Local

President: David Folkersma V. President: David Bell Sec/Treas: Loren Hoolsema Dairy Communicators: Ann Folkersma, Toni Kronemeyer

President: Scott Ferry V. President: Bruce Lewis Sec/Treas: Carlton Evans Dairy Communicators: Jennifer Lewis, Cami Marz-Evans

Clare-Mt. Pleasant Local

Huron Local

President: William Stough V. President: Scott Kleinhardt Secretary: Phillip Gross Treasurer: Doug Stevens Dairy Communicators: Michelle Stough, Bertha Mae Stough

Constantine Local

President: Richard Ultz V. President: Clyde Miller Sec/Treas: Richard Thomas Dairy Communicators: Judy Oesch, Richard Ultz

Dairyland Local

President: Del Christensen Sec/Treas: Brent Wilson Dairy Communicator: Brent Wilson

Deford/Clifford-Mayville Local

President: Ray Wolak V. President: Calvin Bodeis Sec/Treas: Diane Foley Dairy Communicators: Diane Foley, Jane Wood, Katie Wood

Evart Local

President: Gordon Dick V. President: Bruce Benthem Sec/Treas: Chriss Carmichael Dairy Communicators: Ken DeZeeuw, Amy Martin

President: Mark Ziel Secretary: Shelly Messing Treasurer: Darwin Sneller Dairy Communicators: Shelly Messing

Ingham County Local

President: Josh Lott V. President: Dan Minnis Sec/Treas: Linda Grettenberger Dairy Communicator: Evelyn Minnis

Mid-Michigan Local

President: John Hufnagel V. President: Aaron Gasper Sec/Treas: Kris Wardin Dairy Communicators: Doreen Slavik, Carla Wardin, Patti Jandernoa

Mid-Sanilac Local

President: James Herberling V. President: Gertie Van Den Goor Sec/Treas: Mike Bender Dairy Communicators: Jordan Noll, Jodi Sharrard, Sara Lee, Rita Phillips, Barbara Radloff, Gertie van den Goor

Mid-Thumb

President: Scott Lamb V. President: Robert J Rowley II Sec/Treas: William Blumerich Dairy Communicators: Melissa Sullivan, Kristie Lamb, Doris Stuever, Virginia Ankley, Kathleen Clinton, Kathleen Knust

Muskegon Local

President: Bill Stakenas V. President: Glen Sparks Sec/Treas: Sharon Powers Dairy Communicator: Terri Stakenas

Owosso Local

President: Matt Dutcher V. President: David Reed Sec/Treas: David Reed Dairy Communicator: Megghan Honke

Saline-Ann Arbor Local

President: Jeff Horning V. President: Stan Lambarth Sec/Treas: Keith Weidmayer Dairy Communicators: Arlene DeForest, Lynda Horning

Sunrise Local

Jackson County Plus Local

President: Jeffrey Alexander V. President: Tom Zenz Sec/Treas: Arthur Riske Dairy Communicator: Kathy Heisler

President: John Bennett V. President: Jeremy Beebe Secretary: Chris Daniels Treasurer: Michael O’Farrell Dairy Communicator: Abigail O’Farrell

Kalamazoo Local

Upstate Local

President: Don Bever V. President: Tim Hood Sec/Treas: Dan Ransler Dairy Communicator: Tammy Spicher

President: Marv Rubingh V. President: Terry Lautner Sec/Treas: Richard Fettig

Lansing Local

President: Gary Palosaari V. President: Gary Palosaari Sec/Treas: Eleanor Bloniarz Dairy Communicator: Karen Palosaari

President: Daniel Ritter V. President: Daniel Ritter Sec/Treas: Kristina Langmaack Dairy Communicators: Stacey Edick, Kristina Langmaack

Livingston Charter Local

President: Scott Bontekoe V. President: Chuck White Sec/Treas: Janet White Dairy Communicators: Jodi Hill

U.P. West Central

West Michigan Local

President: Paul Elzinga V. President: Norm Ter Haar Secretary: William Gruppen Treasurer: David Pyle Dairy Communicators: Jenny Elzinga, Arlene Ter Haar

POWER of the Past. » VISION for the Future.

DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

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MERCHANDISE

SilagePro – More than just an Inoculant SilagePro lowers pH fast, reduces dry matter losses and saves energy losses. SilagePro has purified enzymes and four cascading lactic acid bacteria. The enzymes splinter the cell walls and release sugars that feed the bacteria. SilagePro enzymes are unique because they work at any pH level. The four cascading bacteria in SilagePro start working immediately at any pH level during the fermentation process.

• Enterococcus faecium: grows rapidly at pH above six • Pediococcus pentosaccus and pediococcus acidilacti: grows rapidly at pH above five • Lactobacillus plantarum: grows best below pH of five Silage pH is usually stable within 96 hours. By dropping the pH fast in haylage, the chance of producing butyric acid is eliminated.

Research has shown that SilagePro can reduce dry matter losses by 3 percent over traditional inoculants and 7 percent over untreated silage. When dry matter losses occur, the loss is the non-structural carbohydrates. It would take 60 pounds of cornmeal per ton of silage to replace a 3 percent loss of dry matter. It would take 140 pounds of cornmeal to replace a 7 percent loss of dry matter.

The merchandise warehouse stocks Silage Pro in two varieties, granular and water soluble (concentrate). Silage Pro granular comes in a 50 pound bag and treats 100 tons. We also carry two concentrates, Silage Pro 100 and Silage Pro 250. The Silage Pro 100 treats 100 tons while the Silage Pro 250 will treat 250 tons. Silage Pro 500, available by special order only, will treat 500 tons.

Also available for less money, by special order, is a product called AgriSile. It contains the same four cascading bacteria as SilagePro, but does not have the enzymes.

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

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB 24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026 For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392 or one of the following service representatives: Stan Palmer 2105 Fohl Street SW Canton, OH 44706 330-407-0220

Description

Stock number

Member price

Silage Pro (50 lb)

8311

$110.00

Silage Pro 100

8312

$105.71

Silage Pro 250

8313

$257.14

Silage Pro 500

8348

$500.00

Agrisile

Special order

Call for pricing

For more information on SilagePro and other products offered by American Farm Products, go to their website at afpldt.net or call the American Farm Product representative, Arlin Koglin, at 989-553-3370.

Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636 Pat Mitchell 7273 N. Rollin Hwy. Addison, MI 49220 517-403-0928

Three Ways to Order your MMPA Merchandise 1. Place 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

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MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

PREMIUMS MERCHANDISE

MMPA Quality Premium Program

MMPA Member Testing Fees

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

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

50,000 or below............ +55¢/cwt.

201,000-225,000........... +20¢/cwt.

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

226,000-250,000............+15¢/cwt.

76,000-100,000.............+45¢/cwt.

251,000-300,000...........+00¢/cwt.

101,000-125,000.............+40¢/cwt.

301,000-400,000..........- 30¢/cwt.

126,000-150,000........... +35¢/cwt.

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

151,000-175,000.............+30¢/cwt.

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

176,000-200,000.......... +25¢/cwt.

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

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

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

Raw bacteria count and components.

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

All costs are listed per individual sample.

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

To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month To qualify for MMPA volume premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month • An average somatic cell count of 750,000 or less

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

Additional Tests Available: • Mycoplasma Cultures...........................................................................$12 • Bacteriology Cultures...........................................................................$13 – Includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility.

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

ANTEL-BIO TESTING Loc/Hlr/Producer # _________________________________ Sample Date______________________________ Member name_______________________________________________________________________________ Sample ID__________________________________________________________________________________ BLV ELISA__________ Johne’s ELISA____________ Johne’s PCR____________ Pregnancy_____________

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

This card MUST be filled out completely when sending in samples to be tested by Antel-Bio to avoid potential service charges.

33

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

33

FREELINERS To place your freeliner ad please call 1-800-572-5824, ext. 202, or fax 248-426-3412, or email your ad to: Muszynski@mimilk.com.

Bulls Registered Holstein Bulls: We now have a nice selection of service age bulls, sired by top AI sires.

Green Meadow Farms, Elsie, MI. 989-862-4291 or see our website at www.greenmeadowfarms.com.

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

Registered Holstein breeding bulls, all AI sired from top bulls, b&w, red, red carrier and some polled, high production, low SCC herd. Bulls are priced to sell. Ver Hage Holsteins, 269-673-4886 or 269-217-6076, ask for Tim. www.verhageholsteins.com.

Black River lots available in Cheboygan, Mich., lots are 123 ft. of frontage, located in the WIDE part of the Black River. We’re in the Inland Waterways. Just 5 miles from town, but nice and secluded on paved, private road. Lots are priced from $62,000 to $79,000 cash or short land contract.

Off river lots on back side are also available for pole barns or homes at $15,000 with river access. 231-6252036 or email me for more info. at brownsue99@gmail.com.

Equipment New Holland LX485 Skid-Steer Loader, 1,350 lifting capacity, fresh overhaul on engine, $9,000. 517-541-0533.

Trioliet Vertical Mixer Solomix 1200.

Twin screw, 430 cubic ft., good condition. $13,000. 574-202-0288.

Dairy Equipment

Wanted

Zero Bulk Tank 1,500 gal. Call 586-557-4494.

Registered Holsteins. Call Brent at 989-551-0681.

Dairy Farm

New Holland 824 corn head for New Holland chopper, also seeking a 3 beater forage box. 989-884-2203.

367 acre farm in Cheboygan, Mich. set up for dairy, could be heifer raising facility, or beef, etc. Nice 7 bedroom brick home. Buildings are in good shape. Will split land. Asking $990,000, for all land and home farm.

Can email packet of pictures and info.

231-625-2036 or 517-202-9421 or brownsue99@gmail.com.

2-in. double inlet receiver jar pipeline, complete unit. 260-463-8382 ext. 8.

Herd of milk cows or bred heifers to buy on a milk check assignment.

616-889-0769.

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

Misc.

enterprise with which a

Australian Blue Healer pups.

231-843-8871, leave message.

member is involved will be deleted, with permission of the member.

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

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

Example: To be included in the January issue, the freeliner must be at the MMPA office

by December 10.

34

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

CLASSIFIED ADS

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

Classified Ads | Michigan Milk Messenger

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

EMAIL: Muszynski@mimilk.com FAX: 248-426-3412

OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can

A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS

fix your scabbled floors. Diamond

UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/texturing

sawed grooves, no hammering

provides high quality traction in new &

or cracking of concrete. No hoof

old concrete, fast service. Call for your

damage. Call Opperman Grooving

below pricing 989-635-1494. BLUE

Inc., Portland. 517-647-7381.

RIBBON HOOF TRIMMING, LLC.

DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING,

FOR SALE: 5000-4000-3000-2500-

INC: No water needed. Wider,

2000-1500 OH MUELLER LATE MODEL

rougher grooves for better traction.

BULK TANK MILK TANKS, complete,

We also offer texturing for your

will trade. 1-800-558-0112.

previously grooved floors. Three operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Established since 1987. Call 1-800-365-3361.

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

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

DRY HAY & STRAW (large & small

CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-

bales) and Barley for feed.

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

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

ALFALFA HAYLAGE (excellent & fair

lowest prices. (800) 554-2288.

grades) & CORN SILAGE. 989-723-1886

www.tristatescabbling.com

or 989-277-1414.

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

Ready to go to work on your farm!

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

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

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

36

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

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

POLICIES MERCHANDISE

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

MILK SHIPPED — POSITIVE DRUGS CONFIRMED

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

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

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

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 2. The member can test the milk on the farm. If dumped, the invoice for the entire value of the loss plus transportation and member must be sure to take the stick reading, record disposal costs as required by the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. the number of pounds of milk and report the information to their This invoice may be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier.

MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of member representative. issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount • If the tank tests negative (no drugs present), the milk may be of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless released and shipped. other settlement arrangements are made.

OR

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

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

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

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

If the milk is dumped, the member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* In order to receive payment for an added water voluntary dump, the member must install a Swingline Safety Switch. The Swingline Safety Switch can be ordered from the Mt. Pleasant warehouse. The MMPA member representative will verify the switch has been installed.

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

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

MILK SHIPPED – HIGH BACTERIA COUNT

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

37

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT

If… 1. a load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. the milk cannot be sold through normal Grade A channels for reasons of quality which results in the load being sold or disposed of at a loss to MMPA, and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members that caused the contamination or rejection of the load, then, the member or members responsible will be charged the full value of the loss to MMPA plus transportation and disposal costs, and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums except for loads rejected for temperature.

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

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

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

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

DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

37

MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary | FOR MILK MARKETED IN OCTOBER 2015 Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

%

This Month Year Ago Change Total Class 1 Sales

561,644,819

548,877,240

+2.33

Total Class 2 Sales

328,146,931

312,079,177

+5.15

Total Class 3 Sales

523,673,562

314,552,655

+66.48

Total Class 4 Sales

237,917,245

243,176,826

-2.16

1,651,382,557

1,418,685,898

+16.40

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

34.0%

38.7%

National Trends (million pounds) 2015

2014 % Change

Production California

3,243 3,433

-5.5

Wisconsin

2,445 2,340

+4.5

New York

1,184

1,156

+2.4

Idaho

1,178 1,164 +1.2

Pennsylvania 875 890 -1.7

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers...................................................................................................... 5,493 Avg. Daily Production per farm...................................................................... 9,570 Avg. Protein Test.....................................................................................................3.15%

Michigan

853 816 +4.5

Texas

852 858 -0.7

Minnesota

775 761 +1.8

New Mexico

643

Avg. Butterfat Test...............................................................................................3.75% Avg. Oth Solids Test............................................................................................5.73% Avg. SCC - MMPA............................................................................................163,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb................................................................................................... $1.7019

454 450 +0.9

Indiana

339 326 +4.0

Total U.S.

Other Solids Price /lb...................................................................................... $0.0328

For 23 States

Uniform Price @ 3.5%......................................................................................... $16.59 SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000....................................................................$0.00084

AMS Survey Prices Product

Monthly Avg

Cheese /lb...............................................................................................................1.6790 Butter /lb..................................................................................................................2.5734 Nonfat Dry Milk /lb............................................................................................... 0.8951 Dry Whey /lb........................................................................................................0.2309

38

Ohio

U.S Y-T-D

Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt........................................................................$1.13

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

-2.9

Washington 545 549 -0.7

Butterfat Price /lb.............................................................................................$2.9087

Class III Price @ 3.5%..........................................................................................$15.46

662

16,028

16,017

+0.1

163,344 161,388

+1.2

MMPA STAFF MERCHANDISE

MMPA Field Staff*

Novi Headquarters

Northwest Area

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

Ben Chapin, Supervisor, Blanchard.......................................... 989-289-0731 Frank Brazeau, Energy Auditor, Oconto, WI..................... 906-250-0337 Lyndsay Earl, Ludington................................................................... 231-519-2455 Sarah Michalek, Portland...............................................................248-305-0537 Deb Gingrich, Leroy.........................................................................248-520-3580 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard.............................................................. 248-756-2062

Northeast Area Christy Dinsmoore, Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist, Fairgrove......................248-513-7920 Ashley Herriman, Alpena.............................................................. 269-245-6632 Angie Kirsch, Harbor Beach...........................................................231-414-4539 Ben Butcher, Durand.........................................................................248-514-5273 Animal Care Coordinator, Energy Auditor Lindsay Green, East Lansing........................................................989-488-8159 Animal Care Coordinator Drew Rupprecht, Clio...................................................................... 269-986-6793

South Area

General Manager Joe Diglio.................................................................................................... ext. 200 Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys.......................................................................................... ext. 240 Member Services Dean Letter.................................................................................... 989-289-9251 Milk Sales/Dispatch Carl Rasch....................................................................................................ext. 244 Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula.................................................................................................ext. 219 Manufactured Product Sales Jim Dodson.................................................................................................ext. 229 Quality Amandeep Dhillon.................................................................................. ext. 305 Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt.......................................................................................ext. 210 Human Resources Cindy Tilden................................................................................................ext. 220

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

Member Relations/Public Affairs Sheila Burkhardt...................................................................................... ext. 208

Krista Beeker, Topeka, IN............................................................... 269-986-6792

Data Processing Gregory Schulkey..................................................................................... ext. 237

Dave Brady, Grass Lake........................517-522-5965 or (c) 517-937-9061 Elyse Martin, Charlotte.....................................................................810-701-6460

Member Communications Allison Stuby..............................................................................................ext. 296

Joe Packard, Kalamazoo................................................................ 248-520-3481 Emily Smith, Bronson...................................................................... 269-535-0822

Manufacturing Plants

Other Services

Constantine Dave Davis, Plant Manager.................................................... 269-435-2835

Bulk Tank Calibration Gary Best, Lapeer...............................810-664-4984 or (c) 586-484-9279 Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor Katie Pierson, Coleman..................................................................989-289-9686

Ovid Colt Johnson, Plant Manager..............................................989-834-2221

Mastitis Management Specialist Steve Lehman, Ithaca.......................... 989-875-3441 or (c) 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

Merchandise - Mt. Pleasant Duane Farmer, Supervisor Main Line..................................................................................................989-317-8370 Toll Free 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi).............................................................800-572-5824, then dial 2

*If you are unable to

reach your assigned member representative, please contact the representatives listed in your area.

Fax............................................................................................................... 989-317-8372

39

MESSENGER | DECEMBER 2015

DECEMBER 2015 | MESSENGER

39