February 2013 Volume 95 Issue 8
Michigan Milk Messenger 1
2 February 2013
February 2013
12
Contents
Volume 95 Issue 8 www.mimilk.com
Features
18
9
MMPA Members Capture Four Platinum National Milk Quality Awards
10 Congress Extends Farm Programs into 2013 to Avert Dairy Cliff 12 Being Better to Support More Chad and Amanda Outman ~ District 5
16
16 Dairy Challenge Has Benefits for All 18 Continuing the Legacy Frank & Jennifer Drake Keller ~ District 1 21 2013 MMPA Milker Training Schools 22 The Best of the Best – Milk Quality as Good as It Can Be!
Departments
Managing Editor...................... Sheila Burkhardt Editors........................................... Laura Moser .................................. Alex Schnabelrauch Advertising Manager.............. Nancy Muszynski Circulation............................................... 4,200
MMPA Matters................................................ 5 Quality Watch.................................................. 6 News & Views.................................................. 8 Legislative Watch............................................ 10 Merchandise Memo........................................ 24 Freeliners........................................................ 26 Classifieds...................................................... 28 Policies........................................................... 29 Market Report................................................ 30 MMPA Lab Lines........................................... 31 MMPA Staff ................................................... 31
An Equal Opportunity Employer – F/M/V/D Michigan Milk Messenger (USPS 345-320) is the official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association, published monthly since June 1919. Subscriptions: MMPA members, 50¢ per year; non-members, $5 per year. 41310 Bridge St. P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376-8002 Telephone: 248-474-6672 FAX: 248-474-0924 Periodical postage paid at Novi, MI and at additional offices.
February 2013 Volume 95 Issue 8
On the Cover The 2012 MMPA Annual Report is inserted in this issue. Be sure to check out the strong financial standing of the cooperative!
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Michigan Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002.
(ISSN 0026-2315) Michigan Milk Messenger 1
Michigan Milk Messenger 3
Michigan Milk Producers Association
Michigan Milk Producers Association, established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 2,200 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.
Board of Directors
Officers President: Ken Nobis Vice President: Bob Kran Treasurer: Mark Halbert General Manager/Secretary: Clay Galarneau Ass’t. Treasurer: Joe Diglio General Counsel: David VanderHaagen Directors-At-Large Ken Nobis, St. Johns .........................989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 201 Rodney Daniels, Whittemore.............989-756-4935 Mark Halbert, Battle Creek................269-964-0511 District Directors 1. Hank Choate, Cement City...........517-529-9032 2. Tim Hood, Paw Paw....................269-657-5771 4. Dan Javor, Hastings......................269-948-8345 5. Brent Wilson, Carson City............989-584-3481 6. Brad Ritter, Byron........................810-266-4091 7. James Reid, Jeddo........................810-327-6830 8. Leonard Brown, Sandusky............810-648-4505 10. Eric Frahm, Frankenmuth............989-652-3552 11. Bob Kran, Free Soil......................231-464-5889 12. John Kronemeyer, Pickford..........906-647-7638
FRONT ROW (l-r): Mark Halbert, Treasurer, Director-at-Large; Hank Choate, District 1; Brad Ritter, District 6; Ken Nobis, President, Director-at-Large; Bob Kran, Vice President, District 11; James Reid, District 7; Leonard Brown, District 8; Clay Galarneau, General Manager/Secretary. BACK ROW (l-r): Brent Wilson, District 5; Joe Diglio, Director of Finance/Assistant Treasurer; David VanderHaagen, General Counsel; Dan Javor, District 4; Rodney Daniels, Director-at-Large; Tim Hood, District 2; Eric Frahm, District 10; John Kronemeyer, District 12.
Mission Statement
“To market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.”
Advisory Committee District One Brad Hart, Clayton Perry Cisco, Hudson Carlton Evans, Litchfield Glenn Preston, Quincy
517-445-2649 517-547-3231 517-398-0629 517-639-4182
District Six John Hufnagel, Westphalia Anthony Jandernoa, St. Johns Aaron Gasper, Lowell David Reed, Owosso
989-640-1394 989-593-2224 616-897-2747 989-723-8635
District Two Donald Bever, Delton Francis Burr, Mendon Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN Susan Troyer, Goshen, IN
269-671-5050 269-778-3552 574-825-5198 574-533-4506
District Four David Bivens, Bellevue Jeff Butler, Nashville Mark Crandall, Battle Creek David Lott, Mason
269-758-3980 517-852-1859 269-660-2229 517-676-4593
District Five Tom Jeppesen, Stanton Bill Jernstadt, Big Rapids Robert Lee, Marion Mike Rasmussen, Edmore
4 February 2013
989-762-5399 231-796-4650 231-743-6794 989-762-5380
District Ten John Bennett, Prescott Rod Fowler, Chesaning Scott Kleinhardt, Clare Ken Daniels, Sterling
989-345-4264 989-845-6131 989-386-8037 989-654-2546
District Eleven District Seven Bill Blumerich, Berlin Pat Bolday, Emmett Scott Lamb, Jeddo Chuck White, Fowlerville
810-395-2926 810-395-7139 810-327-6135 517-521-3564
District Eight Mike Bender, Croswell 810-679-4782 Tim Kubacki, Sebewaing 989-883-3249 Dale Phillips, Marlette 989-635-7917 Steve Schulte, Harbor Beach 989-479-9339
Jim Good, Caledonia Frank Konkel, Hesperia David Pyle, Zeeland Bill Stakenas, Free Soil
616-891-1414 231-854-8041 616-772-1512 231-757-9340
District Twelve Robert Barron, Gladstone Ron Lucas, Posen Corby Werth, Alpena Jeremy Werth, Alpena
906-786-7027 989-379-4694 989-379-3772 989-464-4022
MMPA Matters
By Ken Nobis President
MMPA Members Remain Upbeat
A
s I write this month’s column in mid-January, we are in the home stretch of our Local Annual Meeting season. During this 2012/2013 season, I’ve had the pleasure of speaking at meetings that span the entire MMPA membership area from Indiana to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. I started the season in December at the Upstate Local in Ellsworth. From there I crossed the Mackinac Bridge to visit the three locals located across the impressive expanse of the Upper Peninsula, and through all this I saw no snow. My next stop was the Sunrise Local held at Standish in the middle of December, followed by a break until after the holidays—still no snow. The roads were dry and the members upbeat; no snow is unusual, but upbeat members are the norm. As always, I truly welcome the opportunity to visit with members one-on-one and in relatively small groups across the region. My first meeting in 2013 was the Mid-Michigan Local, an easy five mile drive, and again, no snow. During the second week of January, I visited locals in Adrian, Grand Rapids and Zeeland and again no snow. Saturday of the same week found me driving to Middlebury, Ind. for the Constantine Local. This is our largest local and they have so many quality award winners (70) that the awards are passed out as the members enter the meeting to conserve time. Not only was there still no snow, it was 60 degrees when I left Middlebury. This was doubly weird for me, because it is the first time I have traveled to Middlebury for an Annual Meeting and not run into snow. (Although when I was there two years ago it was “lake effect
snow” and everybody knows that’s not the same as real snow.) Now it is the middle of January, and I recently returned from one of our newly merged locals. The first meeting of the St. Clair-MacombLapeer Local was a success with a very good turnout in Capac. I will finish the circuit next week, speaking again in the Thumb area and in southern Michigan. So you see what I mean when I say I have covered the geographic expanse of MMPA in recent weeks. I mentioned that MMPA members are an upbeat crowd, and this was evident in the discussions at the meetings. Topics focused on co-op issues such as the dairy market including marketing our members’ milk, maintaining favorable balance sheets, producing quality milk, operating our plants and of course working on the 2012 Farm Bill. It has been comforting to hear firsthand from many of our members that they have been able to deal with extreme weather issues this past year. Many of us received timely summer rains that greatly benefited our ability to harvest adequate forage supplies. I’ve learned from talking to our southern Michigan, northern Ohio and northern Indiana producers, who were in a severe, summer-long drought situation, that their cows are milking extremely well on the drought-stunted corn silage. Of course their margins are still pinched but not nearly as badly as they anticipated before actually feeding 2012 corn silage. Our members are excellent managers who are looking forward to a less challenging year, but of course we don’t know for sure what 2013 will bring. Another year of
major drought would make for a very difficult year, with budgets and feed supplies already wounded from the 2012 experience. While it has been nice to travel on dry roads, the lack of subsoil moisture has become a matter of concern the farther the calendar stretches into winter. At this point, the “no snow” landscape is becoming an underlying concern, as we observe no build-up of the much depleted soil moisture that we will desperately need for a good harvest next fall. Some of our current apprehension could have been moderated if members of Congress had completed their job assignment and finished the 2012 Farm Bill. Instead, the bill was not allowed to be introduced on the floor of the House of Representatives, so a debate and vote never took place. This was especially disheartening, since the bill had passed the full U.S. Senate with strong bipartisan support after which it received strong bipartisan support in the House of Representatives Agriculture Committee. The legislation, had it been passed, would have provided an improved safety net and saved taxpayers money. Instead, legislators extended the higher cost and less effective 2008 Farm Bill until September 30, 2013. The lack of action makes no sense to me…but maybe that’s why cockroaches came in ahead of Congress in a recent popularity poll. Whatever happens on the state and national political front, I hope that you enjoy this quiet time of the year on the farm, with or without snow, as you make plans for the busy months that will soon be here.
Michigan Milk Messenger 5
Quality Watch
By By Dean Dean Letter Letter
MMPA Manager of Producer Testing Director of Member Services and Herd Health Programs
New Faces Helping MDARD Conduct All Grade A Inspections
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s our members know, the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) requires all Grade A farms to be inspected at least once every six months. Grade A farm inspections are essential to ensuring compliance with the Grade A law to allow for interstate shipment of Grade A milk and dairy products. Until a few years ago, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) had sufficient staff to conduct virtually all of the required onfarm milk safety inspections in Michigan as stipulated by the PMO. However, there have been exceptions in the more recent past because of state budget cuts and employee retirements. Michigan is one of only a few states in the U.S. that has a Certified Industry Field Representative Inspection Program for its Grade A dairy farms as outlined in Section 5 of the PMO. The program enables Certified Industry Field Representatives (in our case, MMPA member representatives) to conduct Grade A dairy farm inspections in place of the regulatory inspections normally conducted by MDARD staff. MDARD still maintains oversight of the program and conducts audits. Due to a budget shortfall in 1998-1999 and again in 2005-2006, the number of MDARD (then MDA) dairy inspectors was cut, and the industry began conducting Grade A dairy farm inspections on approximately 350 farms in Huron, Sanilac and Tuscola counties under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the department. When funding became available, Dairy
6 February 2013
Section inspectors resumed all of the dairy farm inspection duties in these counties. MMPA and other industry representatives stepped up to the plate again in 2010 when MDARD lost six staff members to retirement. The Certified Industry Field Representative Inspection Program was instituted to assure Michigan’s Grade A dairy farms remained in compliance with the minimum six month inspection requirements of the PMO. What started out as a MOU stating that the industry would take over Grade A dairy inspections in 19 counties expanded to include 55 of the 75 Michigan counties with licensed dairy farms. As of June 1, 2011, 90 percent of Michigan dairy inspections were conducted by the industry. On Oct. 17, 2011, MDARD hired three new dairy inspectors who, after being trained, assisted the other 12 state inspectors to take on 77 percent of the inspection load. As of November 2012, 78 percent of Michigan dairy farms received Grade A inspections from MDARD. Thanks to a $300,000 earmark in Governor Snyder’s 2013 budget to restore state-run dairy inspections, MDARD recently hired three more fulltime dairy inspectors. MDARD’s milk safety program appreciates the support from the industry to help restore funding to the dairy program. The new inspectors are currently training to take their assigned work areas on March 1, 2013. At that time, all dairy farms in the state will be under inspection by MDARD. As we look forward to the transition back to 100 percent MDARD-administered Grade A
inspections, here’s some background on the new inspectors. Shawn Lee comes to MDARD from the New Jersey Department of Health where he was supervisor of the milk and water laboratory as well as state laboratory evaluation officer for industry milk laboratories. He has over 11 years of microbiology experience and two years of inspection experience. Shawn is assigned to Oceana, Newaygo and Mecosta counties for farm inspections and will also inspect Country Dairy, Yoplait and the Reed City Milk Plant. Amber Parmelee is the new dairy inspector assigned to Clare, Gladwin, Midland, Bay and Arenac counties. She graduated from Michigan State University in August of 2012 with a master’s degree in public health. During her program of study, she assisted with research on Bovine Leukemia Virus focusing on the effects of the virus on human and herd health. Kristin Rawlings grew up on a family dairy farm near Harbor Beach in the thumb of Michigan and previously served as an MMPA member representative. She attended Michigan State University and graduated with an agribusiness management degree in 2005. Kristin will be covering farms in Sanilac, St. Clair, Lapeer, Macomb and Oakland counties. We look forward to working with Shawn, Amber and Kristin and are encouraged by their experience, background and level of expertise.
Simply Better
Save the Date: MMPA Calf Training Schools
Corn Silage Inoculants Alfalfa
As many of you know, the National Dairy FARM Program recommends farms document all employee training for new and existing employees on an annual basis. To help fulfill this recommendation, MMPA and Land O’Lakes Animal Milk Products Co. are offering calf training schools Feb. 12-14, 2013. The classroom style meeting is limited to 25, so reserve your spot early!
With today’s rising feed costs, growing and managing your own forages can make a significant difference in your bottom line. Trust Pioneer® brand products and management advice to help you get more mileage out of your silage. To learn more, ask your Pioneer sales professional about specific corn silage hybrids, alfalfa varieties and inoculants to best suit your operation or go to www.pioneer.com/forages
Three dates and locations offered: • February 12 at Brentwood (in Caro, Michigan) • February 13 at the Clinton County RESA (in St. Johns, Michigan) • February 14 at the Holiday Inn (in Big Rapids, Michigan)
To register, contact Marianne Gasiewski at the Novi office (800572-5824 ext. 215). Please be ready to provide your farm information, desired school, phone number and the number of people attending.
The DuPont Oval Logo is a registered trademark of DuPont. ® TM SM , , Trademarks and service marks of Pioneer. © 2013 PHII. FORAG025903P360MVAR2
FORAG025903_P360M_VA_R2.indd 1
1/8/13 2:21 PM
Michigan Milk Messenger 7
News & Views The latest dairy news
December Class III Drops $2.17 The December Class III price is $18.66, down $2.17 from November, but only 11¢ lower than last year. The December Class IV price also decreased to $17.83, down 83¢. However, the Class I price increased which will, at least temporarily, offset the dramatic change in Class III. The December milk-feed price ratio was 1.65, down from 1.73 in both October and November. This means that in December a pound of milk at test would create enough revenue to purchase 1.65 lbs. of 16 percent protein mixed dairy feed. Generally, a ratio below two implies milk prices are not high enough to cover feed and other production costs.
Producers scoring 95 percent or more on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Rating MMPA Marquette January 2013
District Date 1
Time
Thurs., Feb. 14 11:00 a.m.
2 4
6 7 8 10
Gene Davis Banquet Center, Jackson Das Dutchman Essenhaus, Middlebury, IN
Mon., Feb. 18
11:00 a.m.
Tues., Feb. 12
11:00 a.m.
New Hope United Methodist Church, Remus
Tues., Feb. 19
11:00 a.m.
Main Street Cafe, St. Johns
Wed., Feb. 13
11:00 a.m.
Ruggero’s, Flint
Mon., Feb. 25
11:00 a.m.
Franklin Inn, Bad Axe
10:15 a.m.
Valley Plaza Conference Center, Midland
Thurs., Feb. 14 11:00 a.m.
5
Place
Wed., Feb. 20
Quality Suites, Lansing
11
Fri., Feb. 15
11:00 a.m.
Russ’s, Muskegon
12
Fri., March 1
11:00 a.m.
United Methodist Church Engadine
Upcoming Events
Gary & Teresa Palosaari Jacob Jahfetson* Elizabeth & Galen Vandrese Robert & Gerald Webber Angela Drayton Richlo Dairy Farms D & B Dairy Farm Inc * Maxine Zawada
*100 percent
8 February 2013
2013 MMPA District Meeting Schedule
February
District Meetings 7-9
Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference, Frankenmuth
21
UDIM Annual Meeting
March 20
MMPA Resolutions Meeting, Lansing
21
MMPA Annual Meeting, Lansing
MMPA Members Capture Four Platinum National Milk Quality Awards
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our of the six producers recently announced as National Dairy Quality Award Program platinum winners belong to the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA). In total, 19 MMPA members are among only 51 producers across the country receiving recognition through this program. Of those 19 members, four are platinum winners, 10 are gold winners and 5 are silver winners. “Our members take pride in producing high-quality, wholesome milk,” says Clay Galarneau, MMPA general manager. “Such a strong showing with 19 national quality awards clearly demonstrates that MMPA members are dedicated to excellence and produce some of the highest quality milk in the country. We couldn’t be more proud of our member’s tireless commitment to quality.”
Branch, Mich.; Tim Berry and Dale Armbrustmacher, Fowler, Mich.; Jeremy Beebe, Whittemore, Mich.; Crandall Dairy Farm, Battle Creek, Mich.; Gordon Dick, McBain, Mich.; Randy and Cindy Dragt, Howard City, Mich.; Timothy and Janice Mater, Deckerville, Mich.; Duane and Janet Molhoek, Falmouth, Mich.; Edward, Clara, Carl and William Stakenas, Free Soil, Mich.; and Brent, Nancy and Tyler Wilson, Carson City, Mich. Silver Winners: Michael Bosscher, McBain, Mich.; Mark Diemer, McBain, Mich; Ron, Beth and Kevin Litwiller, Perrinton, Mich.; Mark and Robert Rau, West Branch, Mich.; and David and Karen VanderZanden, Casnovia, Mich.
Platinum Winners: Don Beattie, Holton, Mich.; Ryan and Charina Dellar, Harrisville, Mich.; Bradley, Robert and Deborah Kartes, West Branch, Mich.; and Michigan State University Dairy, East Lansing, Mich.
MMPA offers a portfolio of member services to help members produce the highest quality milk possible. Christy Dinsmoore, MMPA mastitis management specialist, explains, “From nationally recognized Milker Training Schools to on-farm equipment evaluation and individual mastitis management programs, MMPA works closely with members to achieve high quality milk.”
Gold Winners: Charles and Julie Nelkie, and Abigail O’Farrell, West
“We are fortunate to have so many members striving for top
The MMPA members receiving awards are:
quality milk production,” says MMPA Mastitis Management Supervisor Tom Herremans. MMPA also offers a quality premium incentive for its members producing higher quality milk. This past year MMPA paid $14.8 million in quality premiums to its dairy farmer members. The National Dairy Quality Award Winners were selected from nearly 200 applicants. The winning operations stood out for having produced high-quality milk consistently. Applications were evaluated for measures of quality, systems of monitoring udder health, milking routine, protocols for detection and treatment of clinical and subclinical cases of mastitis and strategies for overall herd health and welfare.
Ryan and Charina Dellar
Don Beattie and Jennifer Saxton(Photo courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman)
The Kartes Family (Photo courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman)
MSU Dairy Farm Team (Photo courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman)
Michigan Milk Messenger 9
Legislative Watch Issues important to today’s dairy farmers
Congress Extends Farm Programs into 2013 to Avert Dairy Cliff
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he quest to pass a new farm bill will remain NMPF’s main focus in 2013, after a last-minute fiscal cliff deal in Congress on New Year’s eve extended existing farm programs – including key dairy programs – into 2013. “We will spend the coming months figuring out how to move farm policy forward. The status quo is not an acceptable outcome, either for farmers or taxpayers,” said Jerry Kozak, President and CEO of NMPF. The fiscal cliff package, among other things, extended the MILC program through Sept. 30, 2013 and the price support program through Dec. 31 of this year. Thousands of news stories in
the last two weeks of December speculated that consumers would face a dairy cliff after January 1: the return of the 1949 agriculture law that potentially could double farm-level milk prices. During a post-Christmas lame duck session, Congress considered including the Dairy Security Act – the new margin insurance-based safety net for dairy farmers – in the overall farm bill extension as a way to prevent the permanent law from returning. In the end, however, most existing programs were extended. “As 2012 ended, we helped make visible the need to create a better dairy policy for farmers. Returning to the 1949 law is not a viable long-term
solution, but neither is the system we still have, featuring price supports at ineffectively low levels, along with direct payments that don’t recognize the realities of today’s dairy sector. We need to keep that need visible in 2013 so we end up with a better system,” Kozak said. Kozak did express satisfaction that the overall fiscal cliff deal prevented the estate tax from returning at punitively high levels in 2013. The fiscal cliff package includes a 40 percent rate on estates valued at more than $5 million, up from the previous 35 percent rate, but far less than the 55 percent top rate on $1 million estates that could have become permanent absent the new package.
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10 February 2013
MMPA YC CONFERENCE Network | Learn | Connect | Grow
Connecting Younger Members. Sharing New Ideas. Join us for the 19th annual Young Cooperator Dairy Leadership Conference! One day, 100 other young dairy farmers, a town hall meeting, dairy management workshop, farm tour and three hours of cards and dice add up to a one-of-a-kind conference that gives younger MMPA members the chance to interact with co-op and industry leaders one-on-one. Spend the day meeting other young dairy producers, learning about current industry issues, hearing strategies to improve your business and helping shape the future of our co-op.
Town Hall Meeting The three morning session presenters – MMPA President Ken Nobis, MMPA General Manager Clay Galarneau and Director of the United Dairy Industry of Michigan Sharon Toth – will each give a short presentation followed by a town hall meeting-style dialogue between attendees and speakers. Discussion topics include: •• What can we be doing to proactively protect our farms?
•• ••
April 12, 2013
Bavarian Inn Lodge One Covered Bridge Lane Frankenmuth, MI
What’s the future outlook for the dairy industry? MMPA? The latest legislative and regulatory issues impacting the dairy industry.
Afternoon and Evening Program
Leading and Managing Your Dairy Staff
Managing cows can sometimes be easier than managing people. Tom Fuhrmann, DairyWorks president, will offer insight on a major step towards enhancing a farm’s productivity and profitability: developing key employees (supervisors) into leaders and managers. Whether you’re working with family or hired help, Tom will offer real steps towards improving your bottom line.
Tour of Rainbow Creek Farms
Before dinner, buses will take participants to Rainbow Creek Farms, in Millington, owned by MMPA members Steve and Diane Foley. The Foleys rebuilt their 140cow dairy after a 2011 barn fire, converting to robotic milkers.
Casino Night
To cap off the conference, each YC will receive $150 of Monopoly money to participate in a night of Blackjack, Roulette, Texas Hold ‘Em, Craps and Euchre hosted by CasinosWild, Inc. Prizes will be awarded to the top three winners and the first person to go broke.
Registration and More Information
Conference registration is free to MMPA members and MMPA member employees. Send the YC Conference registration card mailed in the January 26 milk check by March 28 to: MMPA Member Relations Department PO Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376 For additional information, contact Alex Schnabelrauch at 800572-5824 ext. 211 or email aschnabelrauch@mimilk.com. Hotel Reservations Make hotel reservation by March 13 and mention MMPA to receive the discounted $125 rate. Call 1-888-775-6343 to make your reservation.
Michigan Milk Messenger 11
Being Better to Support More Chad and Amanda Outman ~ District 5 By Alex Schnabelrauch
C
ontinuous, passionate improvement is not just a value, but a mantra for Chad and Amanda Outman, District 5 OYDCs. And that progressive mindset is what helps set the northern Michigan dairy apart. “Many people think being a profitable dairy means adding more cows. That’s not our philosophy. We want to get better before we get bigger,” says Chad who farms with his parents, brother and sister at Doddedale Farms in Falmouth, Mich. Toting bumper yields and high quality milk, the MMPA Gold Quality Award winning dairy operates with just one non-family employee, using their complementary specialties and passions to add value to the operation. It takes precise quality management, attuned 12 February 2013
cropping and a desire to constantly “be better” to support four families off the farm’s 900 acres and 220 milking cows. Doddedale Farms Chad and his brother, Dries, work in partnership with their parents Harold and Ruth Ann Dodde to keep the 60-year-old farm producing a high volume of high quality milk. Boasting an average SCC of 85,000 and enough corn and alfalfa to feed their own herd with some to spare, Chad is no stranger to the game of margins. Quality premiums and selling surplus grain have added to the farm’s bottom line and kept the farm afloat despite tough economic conditions. The herd is milked twice-a-day at 3 a.m. and 3 p.m. in a double six
parabone parlor. Updated about 10 years ago, the family enjoys the advantage of attaching milking claws from the rear while still fitting more cows in the parlor during each rotation. The farm employs two full-time milkers – Chad’s brother, Dries, and sister, April – and three part-time milkers – Ruth Ann, Amanda and a local high school student. Harold also helps out milking, feeding calves and cropping. Internal replacements fuel the future of the operation and, aside from a clean-up bull, the breeding program is completely AI. They use the SelectDetect system as a management tool for their reproduction program. For Chad, their success isn’t based on the fact that they do anything out of the norm at Doddedale Farms. Rather, they set
themselves apart by doing things extraordinarily well. He adds, “Supporting four families with a relatively small herd isn’t easy. It comes down to putting in the time and effort to do things right day-in and day-out.” Playing to His Strengths While Dries is the farm’s primary milker, herdsman and reproduction program manager, Chad is charged with feeding, scraping, maintaining and cropping. He smiles, “I don’t mind getting covered with fuel and oil. But I can’t stand getting covered in… that other stuff while milking in the parlor. We’re lucky that we each enjoy different aspects of the farm and complement each other.” After graduation, Chad worked as a welder, in a machine shop and as a fuel truck driver, but came back to the farm in 1991. When asked about the switch, he explains, “Every job has its ups and downs but in the end, you’ve got to love what you do. Working on the family farm allows me to set my own schedule and be my own boss.” For Chad, being outside all day whether it’s in the cab of the tractor or the skid-steer is the highlight of farm life. Fieldwork is his specialty. He explains, “Even though it’s not the cheapest route, we invest in Pictured above: Chad and Amanda Outman both enjoy the family aspect of a quality, appropriate amount of working on their family’s farm in Falmouth, Mich. (Lower left) Chad’s specialty is fertilizer. We take care of the land fieldwork and lives by the fact that proper land management has a positive effect and let the land take care of us.” Working Two Jobs… By Choice Chad worked his way back to the family farm. But how did his enthusiastic, light-up-a-room wife, Amanda, end up by his side? “It’s a funny story actually. I worked at a vet clinic and met Chad when he and his sons brought their dog in to be neutered. I teased the boys about keeping their dog for myself. Chad said he would consider a trade for a bag of Peanut M&M’s.
on yields and milk production. (Lower right) While not a regular milker, Chad is charged with feeding the cows and scraping stalls to keep the herd comfortable. And I went to work immediately,” she beams. “I sent a bag of Peanut M&M’s with the vet when he went out to Chad’s farm. Chad came in later that day with a giant Hershey’s Kiss with his number wrapped inside. We went on our first date the next day.” They were married in 2009 and have been visibly in love ever since.
While most dairy farmers’ wives take some time adjusting to the lifestyle and schedule, Amanda embraced it wholeheartedly. “My dad was a herdsman so I was used to the hours. Honestly, I wouldn’t know anything else! I like being a part of something so much bigger than myself. Milk doesn’t just come to our house, but to our neighbors and consumers across the globe,” she elaborates.
Continued on page 14
Michigan Milk Messenger 13
Continued from page 13 In addition to working a fulltime job doing bookwork and serving customers at McBain Grain Company, Amanda chooses to work on the farm as well. She milks with her mother-in-law every other weekend. “We have a lot of fun together, and while I come out covered with manure from head to toe, Ruth Ann leaves looking just as good as she did when she started. I tell Chad, ‘What happens in the parlor, stays in the parlor,’” she smirks. Just the Beginning With two boys, Noah (13) and Caleb (11) helping feed calves, scrap pens and do fieldwork in the summer months, the fourthgeneration farmers say they might consider coming back to the farm. “Right now, my favorite part is when the cows get out. It is fun chasing them especially when it’s dark,” Noah smiles.
never-ending improvement and take pride in doing things right. Chad closes, “We want to get better by improving our quality and efficiency. Always getting better is what keeps dairy farmers in business.”
miLK test
Pregnancy
delivering more through dHi.
Although happy that they enjoy working on the farm, Chad doesn’t share the boys’ love for midnight cow wrangling. As he looks toward the future, Chad says that things will slowly transition as he and Dries begin assuming more of the big-picture management of the farm. They’re currently working on “learning the ropes” of tax prep from their father, Harold. Down the pike, the brothers will also work with Ruth Ann transitioning into the business’s financial management.
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With radiating positive attitudes and contagious smiles, the Outmans are walking billboards for the joy still found on family farms. They stick to their philosophy of
1.800.631.3510 northstarcooperative.com 14 February 2013
2013 MMPA State Annual Delegate Meeting The annual delegate meeting of the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) will begin at 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 21 at the:
Lansing Center, 333 E. Michigan Avenue Lansing, Michigan. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. Business will be conducted only by accredited delegates, but all members are welcome to attend. The agenda will include consideration of policy statements, resolutions and the election of one director-at-large position on the MMPA board of directors. If the Lansing Center parking area is full, the North Grand ramp located next to the Radisson Hotel has a walkway to the Lansing Center.
Michigan Milk Messenger 15
Dairy Challenge Has Benefits for All
N
ot just anyone would hand over their farm’s herd, production and financial records to meticulous evaluators looking for improvement opportunities. Litchfield MMPA members Scott and Ali Ferry did one better; they let them traipse around their farm armed with clipboards, all in the name of hands-on education. Scott assures, “It may seem uncomfortable to open up every aspect of your business; however the Dairy Challenge is an extraordinary opportunity, not only for the students to get their boots on the ground, but for us as a farm to receive a complete strategic analysis of our operation.” The annual state Dairy Challenge kicked off on November 28, 2012 as 75 Michigan State University (MSU) animal science, agribusiness management, ag technology dairy management and veterinary students traveled to the Ferry’s farm. Seventeen teams split into novice, advanced, ag tech and veterinary divisions to, in the words of Associate Professor and MSU Dairy Challenge team coach Dr. Miriam Weber Nielsen, “Use their knowledge of nutrition, reproduction, health, milk quality, cow comfort and financial management to identify bottlenecks on the farm and recommend improvements that will pay off for the farm.” Two days before the visit, students received the farm’s production and herd management data and financial information. Following an on-site farm evaluation and interview with Scott, teams analyzed the data and developed a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation with their assessment of the dairy and their priorities for improvement.
16 February 2013
An active part of the tour, Scott relays, “As the farm owner/ operator, the students were allowed 10 minutes as a group to pepper me with as many questions as they could get in within their time limit. Let me tell you, they know their stuff! They crawled over every inch of our operation and were able to hunt Top: Students tour the farm of MMPA members Scott down things we had and Ali Ferry while drafting their recommendations overlooked.” for the annual MSU Dairy Challenge last November. A week later, the (Bottom) Participants listen to instructions from Associate Professor and MSU Dairy Challenge team teams reassembled coach Dr. Miriam Weber Nielsen before beginning to present their recommendations to their on-farm evaluations. the Ferrys and a panel use of classroom knowledge during of judges. Following completion of the final presentations, Dairy Challenge has taught me dairy industry principles and how to students were invited to an informal evaluate a dairy farm so much better dinner and awards presentation as than just a classroom discussion. The well as a presentation by the judges. Dairy Challenge forces you to make Participant, vet student and a decision, give sound reasoning to a member of the 2012 National back it up and stick to it. This builds MSU Dairy Challenge team Carrie a tremendous amount of confidence Szybisty comments, “The practical
Photo Credit: MSU University Relations
and self-assurance while helping us network with our future colleagues and possible bosses.” Industry professionals served as the event’s judges and ranged from veterinarians to nutritionists to MMPA employees Tom Herremans and Christy Dinsmoore. Christy reflects, “The students seemed to really enjoy getting out on the farm and having a chance to show off what they have learned all year in the classroom. It is a great opportunity for them to look at all angles of farm management and understand that you can’t focus on one area without affecting another.”
between farmers, agribusiness and universities working together to provide a stronger future for the industry. It is a great team effort for everyone’s benefit. Plus, it serves as a highly relevant extracurricular activity for students interested in working on or with farms after they graduate,” adds Dr. Weber Nielsen.
were invited to participate in the Midwest Regional Dairy Challenge later this month. Four-year students can tryout during the spring semester to represent MSU at the National Dairy Challenge, which will be cohosted by MSU, Ohio State and Purdue in Fort Wayne in 2013 and 2014. New this year, the Dairy Challenge Academy also allows additional two or four-year students to participate in an educational workshop version of National Dairy Challenge at the national contest.
A new fan of the partnership, Scott and Ali give Dairy Challenge rave reviews, commenting that the students’ and judges’ presentations offered a tremendous amount of information they were able to take home and immediately implement.
Support from all of the Dairy Challenge sponsors makes the MSU, regional and national Dairy Challenge events possible. Additional information on the regional and national Dairy Challenge events and a listing of corporate sponsors is available at <http://www. dairychallenge.org>. For more information about the MSU Dairy Challenge program, contact Dr. Weber Nielsen at msw@msu.edu or 517-432-5443.
Immersing students firsthand into the world of farm evaluations, Dairy Challenge helps students better understand what, how and why industry experts evaluate certain segments of dairy operations with hopes of grooming the next generation of experienced dairy professionals. It’s a hands-on investment in the future.
“I would highly encourage other MMPA members to serve as host farms for Dairy Challenge events. After hosting Dairy Challenge, it’s clear that the future of the dairy industry looks extremely bright! I hope to have a chance to work with these students in my career. These are highly motivated individuals who have a great start to a successful future,” Scott concludes.
“In my mind, the best part about the program is that it’s a partnership
Five students from the novice division, recommended by the judges,
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800.631.3510 • northstarcooperative.com
Michigan Milk Messenger 17
Continuing the Legacy Frank & Jennifer Drake Keller ~ District 1 By Alex Schnabelrauch
F
or District 1 OYDCs Frank Keller and Jennifer Drake-Keller, dairy farming isn’t just their present. Agriculture has been the common strand connecting six generations of Jennifer’s family, weaving a rich family history of perseverance, dedication and hard work on the Jackson County farm. It all stated in 1862 when Jennifer’s great-great-greatgrandfather, Alonzo Munro Drake, purchased 120 acres of land in Jonesville, Mich. One hundred fifty years later, Drakeland Farms LLC has snowballed far beyond Alonzo’s wildest dreams. What started out as a new, first generation crop farm has evolved into a high-tech, sustainable dairy operation that speaks to the family’s 18 February 2013
resilience, longevity and vitality built one year at a time. Drakeland Farms Since 1862 Since Alonzo’s purchase in 1862, the Drake’s farm has changed hands five times and has been home to pigs, chickens, sheep and cows over the years. But the farm’s endurance didn’t come without some tough decisions. Because of his children’s interest in continuing the family farm, Jennifer’s grandfather rebuilt the entire operation from scratch just four months after purchasing it from his parents when a fire destroyed the farm’s milking parlor, cow barn and hay barn. In the end, the damage proved no match for the Drake family’s commitment.
Growth has characterized the farm even into the operation’s more recent past. “When we got married in 2001, they had 85 cows and it was just the three of them,” Frank explains. “Now, they’re milking 500! And they’ve hired seven full-time and one part-time employee. I might not work on the farm, but I’m still proud of what they’re doing.” Expansion and Innovation Since Jennifer’s father, Dan Drake, purchased the farm in 1988, not only has its herd quintupled, but its acreage has increased from 400 to 950. The farm transitioned to an equal, three-way partnership between Dan, Jennifer and her older brother, James, in 2003.
The Drakes milk three times a day in their double 12 herringbone parlor, originally built in 2003 so the three partners could milk the then 220-cow herd while managing fieldwork on their own. “It just became too much. We spread ourselves too thin,” Jennifer recalls. “So we hired employees and expanded the herd to provide for all three families while managing the workload.” Fueled by internal replacements, a neighbor raises the farm’s heifers from 8 months of age to four months after they’re bred. While the entire farm is A-I bred, heifers are AI’ed with sexed semen. Transponders on every cow record activity, conductivity and production records. A computerized sort gate separates vet-check cows after milking without the need for headlocks. The Drakes also installed an incinerator to assist with mortality management. “We try not to use it,” Jennifer quips. “But when we do, it takes just 10 hours and all we have to do is clean out the ashes.” Even though the farm has been around for a century and a half, the Drakes make it a priority to participate in modern dairy programs. They send milkers to MMPA Milker Training Schools, participate in the National Dairy FARM Program and are in the process of MAEAP verification as well.
Pictured above: Frank and Jennifer Keller walk through the farm’s newest freestall barn, built by Frank’s construction company. (Lower left) Participating in all aspects of the farm’s management, Jennifer spends plenty of time in the farm office updating records and running employee payroll. (Lower right) In junior high, Jennifer started feeding calves and has been working on the farm ever since.
A Heart for Dairying Even though she grew up on the dairy, Jennifer’s prior interests expanded far beyond the family business. True, she started doing calf chores in junior high and took on the night milking in high school, but returning to the farm wasn’t always a sure thing.
“My dad never pushed it on us, but the opportunity to farm as the next generation was always there,” she remembers. “When it came down to it, I made the decision my senior year — I wanted to be part of continuing the legacy of our farm. I love being outside and working with animals. That won me over.” After graduation, Jennifer decided to attend Michigan State University and enrolled in the Dairy Management Program. Since her return in 2000, Jennifer has enjoyed working with
her dad and brother sharing the farm responsibilities equally. “It’s not like any of us specialize in just one area of the operation. We each do a little bit of everything — feeding, accounting, keeping records, managing employees, treating and doing fieldwork. We’re versatile and do what needs to be done that day,” she confirms. Juggling Two Hectic Schedules Like balancing a farmer’s schedule isn’t enough, Frank has a profession with hours that may be just as long
Continued on page 20 Michigan Milk Messenger 19
Continued from page 19 as dairymen: construction. He owns his own business – CamCo Builders, LLC – and employs three other workers building everything from barns to houses. “Summer is crazy around our house. Jennifer is out in the fields for 10 to 12 hours a day. I’m on job sites from morning to night, too. We both get home after dark and the grocery shopping still has to be done and the house still needs to be cleaned. There just needs to be more hours in a day,” Frank smirks. Sports fill up what’s left of the family’s chaotic summer schedule. The couple’s children – Cameron, 10, and Cowen, 8 – play little league, basketball and football. Frank makes time to coach his sons’ little league teams while being the Jonesville High School varsity football assistant coach to boot.
“In the summer, if we’re not working on the weekend, we’re traveling to one of the boys’ baseball tournaments. But we knew what we were getting into from the start. Even before kids, our schedules were extremely busy,” Frank says. Yet, having a construction expert in the family can come in handy. “Frank built our newest cow barn in December 2009, making room for our latest expansion,” Jennifer smiles. The Legacy Lives On Talking about entrusting Cameron and Cowen with some farm chores this summer, the Keller’s ultimate goal is to continue the Drake family legacy. “In 10 years, we want the farm to be in a position to carry on if the next generation decides to be involved,” Jennifer states. “We’ve been MMPA members for 50 years,
and hopefully we’ll be dairying for many more.” On August 25, 2012 the Drakes hosted a farm open house 150 years (to the day) after Jennifer’s greatgreat-great grandfather purchased the farm. Nothing made the Drakes and Kellers more proud than sharing their farm’s past, present and bright future with over 500 neighbors, friends and family.
If Your Cows Could Tell You What Needs Fixed... What Would They Say? Feed Efficency • Components • Calving • Breeding • Production
Let Agri-King Nutrition Help Solve Their Problems 20 February 2013
517-819-7002 • 800-435-9560 www.agriking.com
2013 MMPA Milker Training Schools
Don’t miss a great opportunity to improve milk quality
A
ttention to detail and consistency in milking procedures make the difference between a good milking routine and an excellent one. Whether you or your employees have been milking for 30 years or three months, at MMPA Milker Training Schools (MTS) you will learn best milking procedures which will lead to improved milk quality, higher monthly quality premiums, reduced new mastitis infections and antibiotic use and increased milk production. MMPA MTS is a day-long session offered free of charge to MMPA members and their employees. A combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training help participants understand the “why” and “how” of an excellent udder prep procedure. Both managers and employees are encouraged to attend to promote consistent, operation-wide adoption, implementation and reinforcement of milking procedure techniques. The registration form and schedule are included below. Each MTS is
“I’ve been to MMPA’s Milker Training School five times and I still learn something new every time. It’s a great program that makes you want to be better at what you do.” – Jason Dellar, Nu-Dream Dairy, Harrisville, Mich. limited to 35 people; however, a second session may be held to meet demand. Please register early to help us determine if a second day is needed at some locations. Contact your MMPA member representative or the Member Services Department at the Novi office with any questions or registration information. Hispanic Milker Training Schools Have trouble communicating with Spanish-speaking employees? Some Michigan dairy farms employ Hispanic milkers and, more often than not, the language barrier makes communication between milkers and owners difficult. To help overcome this obstacle, MMPA offers MTS taught by a Spanishspeaking instructor. A concurrent, but
2013Milker Training School Locations and Dates
separate, session is also held to give employers and/or milking supervisors an overview of the techniques the employees are taught so everyone is on the same page after attending MTS. Schools at Additional Locations The 2013 MTS locations were selected based on MMPA producer responses to the MTS survey. Trainings were placed in any area where 15 or more members requested a school. If members would like a school offered in an area other than the locations already selected, and know that 20-30 people would attend from that area, it’s not too late! To request a school at a location not listed below, contact Christy Dinsmoore at (989) 5289102 or Dinsmoore@mimilk.com or the Member Services Department at the Novi office.
Milker Training Registration Name
Registration: 9:30 am Program: 10:00am to 3:00pm (Lunch is provided)
Address
Eaton Rapids February 6
Edgewater Apartments
Telephone
Coopersville February 21
Polkton Township Hall
Prudenville March 6
Houghton Lake Historical Playhouse
Brown City March 14
Brown City Missionary Church
Greenville April 16
Greenville Community Center
Greenville April 17 (Spanish)
Greenville Community Center
Stephenson April 3 & 4
MSU Extension Office
Producer Permit Number Date and location of session you will attend:
Number of people attending: English Hispanic Send this form to: MMPA Milker Training School P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376-8002
Michigan Milk Messenger 21
The Best of the Best – Milk Quality as Good as It Can Be! By Tom Herremans Mastitis Management Supervisor
E
very year I look forward to the January issue of the Hoard’s Dairyman because it announces the National Dairy Quality Award winners. One of the nations’ most prestigious milk quality awards, it recognizes those producers who consistently produce the highest quality milk. The National Dairy Quality Awards are awarded at three levels of excellence. Platinum is the highest award, with gold and silver awarded to the other quality winners. The purpose of the awards is to recognize producers that represent the “best of the best” in quality milk production from any size farm, from any geographic location across the United States. MMPA Members – Frequent Winners of National Quality Awards The platinum winners from 2006 through 2012 total just 43 awards. MMPA members were the recipients of 15 of those 43 total platinum awards. Many more MMPA members have received gold and silver awards in that same seven-year period. This year there was a total of 51 platinum, gold and silver awards across the country. Nineteen of those awards were received by MMPA members. This is an amazing testimonial to the commitment to quality made by many MMPA members. Best Quality Possible – No Longer Just an Option Today’s dairy producers recognize the importance of milk quality for the future viability of the dairy industry. Processors and consumers alike, both here in the U.S. and overseas, are literally demanding that the milk supply be the best quality possible.
22 February 2013
The current customer view regarding milk quality has gravitated from “good quality is OK” to a much loftier expectation for the quality of the milk they buy. “If better is possible – good is NOT enough” is a statement that better reflects current customer expectations regarding milk quality. Customers will get what they want. SCC – the Gold Standard for Milk Quality More than ever, the somatic cell count (SCC) is considered to be the best predictor of overall milk quality. The European Union’s standard, that has an upper limit of 400,000 SCC, is predicated on this concept. If we look at the overall quality history of the National Dairy Quality Award winners, it soon becomes obvious that consistently low bacteria counts are usually associated with low SCC. Research has identified that there really is a direct relationship between low SCC milk and the best overall milk quality. This relationship becomes easily understood if a dairy producer considers two facts about milk quality: •
Almost all bacteria found in milk enter during the time the milking unit is on the cow.
•
Most new infections in lactating cows (new infections almost always cause a cow’s SCC to go up) are caused by bacteria that entered the gland while the milking unit is on the cow.
Milk Harvest Time – Make or Break Time for Milk Quality To identify the secrets used by National Dairy Quality Award winners one should observe them in action at milking time. While there may appear to be differences in their milking routine, these top quality farms have two “secrets” in common: •
The cows being milked come into the parlor with clean teats and udders.
•
The udder prep routine absolutely ensures that teat barrels and teat ends are meticulously cleaned before the milking unit is attached.
These two factors are so important to milk quality that dairy producers should think of them as critical control points. Both of these factors have a direct bearing on the number of bacteria in the milk and the number of bacteria that might enter the mammary gland and cause a new infection. Every Producer can Achieve 100,000 SCC or Lower… Any MMPA member who wants an SCC of 100,000 or lower has a wealth of resources available to help achieve that goal. In fact, more and more members achieve this goal every month. MMPA member reps are trained to provide assistance with
milking techniques and routines that maintain milk quality and reduce the chance for new infections. Excellent milking routines that result in parlor efficiency without compromising milk quality are not complex nor time consuming, but they are very specific when addressing the technique and timing of each and every task performed in the milking routine. It’s attention to the detail of udder prep that separates average quality milk from excellent quality. MMPA Milker Training Schools – a Unique Opportunity The MMPA Milker Training Schools (MTS) are entering their 17th season. This training opportunity allows owners and employees alike to be exposed to techniques proven to be effective in maintaining excellent milk quality and reducing new infections in lactating cows. The MTSs are a combination of fast-paced instruction that focuses on the most effective milking routines possible and a wet lab where these techniques can actually be practiced. George Bernard Shaw once said, “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” The wet lab portion of MMPA’s MTS ensures that there is no illusion about the important components of an effective udder prep procedure. The Best of the Best Don’t Become the Best by Accident If you want to decrease your SCC as much as possible (no - it cannot be too low) and you have questions about what you can do to achieve a lower SCC, plan to attend a MTS. If you are not comfortable training your employees in excellent milking technique, plan to attend a MTS with your employees. The best of the best do the common tasks uncommonly well. This is especially true of udder prep routines. Registration and locations for this 2013 MTSs is found is this edition of the Michigan Milk Messenger. Sign up early to ensure that you have a spot reserved. See you at Milker Training School!
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Merchandise Memo To order call: 1-800-572-5824 then dial 2
Calf Blankets and Feeding Equipment:
I
f you have been through a typical Michigan winter, you know the value of a good, warm coat. Staying warm in the winter can also be a challenge for baby calves. For those calves that need a little help staying warm, the warehouse stocks calf blankets by Udder Tech. These blankets are made of water resistant nylon and feature a single layer of Thinsulate insulation. This single layer has an R-value of 1.67. These unique blankets are designed to stay on the calf, are easy to put on and take off and can be machine washed and dried. They feature quick-release buckles, no Velcro to get matted, an extra strap length for growth and a belly strap to keep the blanket snug when lying down. Double layer insulated blankets and a smaller size blanket for Jersey and twin calves are available on a special order basis. Calf Blanket- Regular Stock number: #5636 Member price: $34.86
“A full service insurance agency” We specialize in Farms and offer a full range of coverages to serve all of your insurance needs. • Competitive – Farmowners.
The warehouse also stocks 2qt and 3qt Snap cap bottles and Snap cap nipples made by the E-Z Nurse Company. These bottles feature pint graduations for easy measurement. The Snap cap nipple is easy to attach, simply turn the base up and snap the edges down firmly around the bottle top. This is made easier by warming the nipple with hot water first. We are also stocking a new and improved metal whisk. It is longer and heavier than our previous model. It is a stainless steel 18” whisk from Land O’ Lakes and features more robust whips and a thicker handle for a more secure grip. 2 qt Snap bottle Stock number: #8251 Member Price: $2.56 3qt Snap bottle Stock number: #8250 Member Price: $3.53 Snap Nipple Only Stock number: #8252 Member Price: $1.88 Mixing Whisk Stock number: #8254 Member Price: $10.00
• Co-op Members in good standing receive additional premium discounts on Farmowners policy. • Group Medical – Regardless of health conditions for 2 plus groups. • Low Cost Term Life “Debt Protection.”
616.656.7260 mfu@comcast.net
Order Your MMPA Merchandise through your milk hauler or call: Supervisor: Duane Farmer 989-681-2334 Fax: 989-681-3988 Toll Free: 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi) 800-572-5824 then dial 2
24 February 2013
MMPA Quality Premium Program
S
omatic Cell Count premiums and deductions (in addition to Federal Order SCC Adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels: • 50,000 or below +55¢/cwt. • 51,000 - 75,000 +50¢/cwt. • 76,000 - 100,000 +45¢/cwt. • 101,000 - 125,000 +40¢/cwt. • 126,000 - 150,000 +35¢/cwt. • 151,000 - 175,000 +30¢/cwt. • 176,000 - 200,000 +25¢/cwt. • 201,000 - 225,000 +20¢/cwt. • 226,000 - 250,000 +15¢/cwt. • 251,000 - 400,000 00¢/cwt. • 401,000 - 500,000 -15¢/cwt. • 501,000 - 600,000 -30¢/cwt. • 601,000 - 750,000 -$1.00/cwt. • Over 750,000 -$1.50/cwt. A payment of 5¢/cwt. will be added for each of the following, if the count is equal to or below: • 10,000 Raw Bacteria Count • 20,000 Pre-Incubated (PI) Count There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for: • Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count
A high raw count deduction will be waived if the producer has received the quality premium the previous three months for raw bacteria count. To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month: • Positive drug residue • Abnormal freeze points • High load count shipment or rejected load shipment • #3 or #4 sediment • Raw Bacteria count over 100,000 The count levels for raw and PI will be determined on one test run per month.
For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392 or
To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month
Stan Palmer 5303 E. Swan Drive #3 Port Clinton, OH 43452 419-797-2101
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.
Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636
MMPA Member Testing Fees
P
ayment for testing will be made through an automatic milk check deduction. All costs are listed per individual sample. • Scheduled Herd Tests $1 Scheduled Herd Test samples are tested for: Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae, Strep non ag, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative staph, coliform and SCC. Additional testing can be coordinated through your MMPA Member Representative to include: Raw bacteria count and components. All herd tests must be scheduled with the laboratory through your MMPA Member Representative.
Chemical, Sanitizer & Teat Dip Contact Information
Members who choose to receive their lab test results via U.S. postal service: $2/month Additional Tests Available: All costs are listed per individual sample. • Mycoplasma Cultures $12 • Bacteriology Cultures $13 – Includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility.
• Bovine Viral Diarrhea - PCR - ELISA • Johne’s Milk Test - PCR - ELISA – cows - ELISA – tank
$40 $ 6 $40 $ 6 $10
• Bovine Leukosis Test - ELISA – cows - ELISA – tank
$ 6 $10
• Milk Pregnancy ELISA
$4.50
These are service personnel only. Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.
ECOLAB 24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026
Jason Koerth 7509 Aborcrest Dr. Portage, MI 49024 269-207-3773 Pat Mitchell 7273 N. Rollin Hwy. Addison, MI 49220 517-403-0928
A & L Laboratories 24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-424-9300 Kurt Fiene 8356 C.R. 115 Kenton, OH 43326 612-889-1063 Jeff Timm NW 8665 C.R. M Shawano, WI 54166 612-840-0555
All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA Member Representative or the laboratory for proper sample submission protocol. Michigan Milk Messenger 25
Freeliners
Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 202 to place your ad or email 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. 989-8624291 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
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 contacting their MMPA Member Representative or by writing or calling the Novi office. • Reference to a name of a firm or other commercial enterprise with which a member is involved will be deleted, with permission of the member. • If the member does not wish such deletion, he 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.
26 February 2013
priced to sell. Ver Hage Holsteins, 269-673-4886 or 269-217-6076, ask for Tim. www.verhageholsteins.com. Service age Reg. Holstein bulls, deep pedigrees, some red carriers. Jenesis Genetics, 231-924-6163 or 231-225-8615.
Dairy Equipment 600 gallon DeLaval tank with compressor and automatic washer $1,200. Call 989-213-6696.
Red & White and Black & White Holstein bulls for breeding heifers. Free delivery. Call Jerry Good 616-262-6904.
Double five with Germania takeoff with 3-inch pipeline, washer, plate cooler and 10 hp pump. Also 1,350 gal. Mueller cooler complete with washer temperature chart and compressor. (989) 587-6562, Fowler, Mich.
Cows and Heifers
Misc.
Bred heifers. 616-835-6776.
Tested Haylage and Corn Silage. Delivery available. 231-250-8592.
High quality Holstein cows. Herd average over 80 pounds on 2 times milking. 734-776-0285.
Equipment Gleaner M2 diesel 6-row black corn head, 15 ft. grain head, SCH cutter bar, all in really good condition. Quick sale $10,000. 989-862-4421. 1947 Model R Moline, older restoration, excellent condition, $2,000. 616-218-9350. Yetter Air Seed Conveyor $1,500.00. IH 6388 2+2-nicest one left, 3300 hours, new firestone 18.4-38 $24,500. 6720 Penta mixer wagon, used 3 years, Heavy duty under carriage $23,500. DeLaval Automatic Calf Feeder. New 2008, used 2 years, RFID identification system, waste milk and milk replacer compatible $7,500.00 firm. If interested 989-5510681. Gehl grinder mixer model 95, mechanical drive, no scale, $1,500. 616-837-8982.
Corn Silage. Processed and inoculated. Delivery available. 231825-2525 or 231-499-4256.
Wanted 600 to 3,000 gal. bulk tanks for storage use only. Mio, Mich. 989-8265453. Milking equipment 500-600 gal. bulk tank with washer, pipeline and milking units. Leave message 574825-4569. Dairy help, light maintenance and fieldwork. 616-218-9350. MMPA toy tanker truck and/ or MMPA 75th Anniversary milk delivery toy. Call 269-671-5050. Patz gutter system, counter clockwise rotation, prefer higher paddles. 574-642-1300 ext. 3160.
Michigan Milk Messenger 27
Classifieds Call 1-800-572-5824 Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 202 or email ext. 224 to: Muszynski@mimilk.com
Classified Ads ($20 per ad up to 6 lines)
Mail ads to: Classified Ads, Michigan Milk Messenger, PO BOX 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002. Or email to Muszynski@mimilk.com. 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. OPPERMAN GROOVING: Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking of concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving Inc., Portland. 517-647-7381. ______________________________________ DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: NO water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better traction. We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. 3 operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. since 1987. Call 1-800-365-3361. ______________________________________ CONCRETE GROOVING By TRI-StaTE Scabbling, home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices. (800) 554-2288. www.tristatescabbling.com ______________________________________ Concrete Grooving/Floor Texturing: Bring existing grooves back to 100% efficiency/new construction. Blue Ribbon Hoof Trimming, LLC. 989-635-1494. ______________________________________
For sale: 5000-4000-3000-2500-2000-1500 OH Mueller late model bulk tank milk tanks, complete, will trade. 1-800-558-0112. ______________________________________ Wanted to buy: Used bulk milk tanks, 200 gallons & larger, Sunset & Mueller, 1-800-558-0112. ______________________________________ Hoof trimming: certified, experienced, w/ references. Craig Martin, 517-231-7790. ______________________________________ Seed Oats, Spring Barley and Medium Red June Clover Seed. 989-723-1886 or 989-2771414. ______________________________________
Generators Winpower & Katolight
Stocking up to 100 KW 24 Hour Emergency Service serving Michigan for the past 30 years 800-345-1887 Midwest Power Systems
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
GREEN MEADOW FARMS
• FROM OUR TOP PRODUCTION COWS.
6400 HOLLISTER RD. ELSIE, MI 48831
www.greenmeadowfarms.com
PH: 989-862-4291
Improve bottom-line $$. Lower feed costs. Maximize production. Ingredients from your trusted source.
Zeeland Farm Services, Inc.® MI: 866.888.7082 Fax: 616.772.7067 www.zfsinc.com
Low Fat Hominy 7% minimum protein 7% maximum fiber 4% minimum fat
Citrus Pulp
16% maximum fiber 6% minimum protein 2.1% maximum calcium 2% minimum fat
Valero Meal
PTO and Automatic Start Generators 1-800-248-8070 M-40 South Hamilton, MI 49419
28 February 2013
34% minimum protein 13% maximum crude fiber 4% minimum fat
Traditional ZFS® Menu Soybean meal, soybean hulls, cereal feed, cottonseed, distillers, gluten, canola meal, beet pulp, wet feeds, and more!
Policies MMPA Policy on Drug Residue in Milk: MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED
MILK SHIPPED — POSITIVE drugs CONFIRMED
If a member suspects milk in the farm bulk tank contains drug residue:
If a member ships milk from the farm and testing by approved laboratory methods show that the milk contained drug residue, the member will be assessed the penalties imposed by the state regulatory agency and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums.
1. Call a MMPA Member Representative to have the milk in the tank tested. A “hold” must be placed on the tank contents until the test results are known. - OR 2. The member can test the milk on the farm. If dumped, the member must be sure to take the stick reading, record the number of pounds of milk, and report the information to their membership representative. • If the tank tests negative (no drugs present), the milk may be released and shipped.
• If the tank tests positive (drugs present), the membership representative will authorize the member to dump the tank of milk. The member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* • If for any reason MMPA personnel must pick up samples at the farm for testing three or more times within 12 consecutive months, the member involved will be charged $25 per trip.
If a loss is incurred by MMPA due to the disposal and/or nonmarketability of a load of milk or milk products containing drug residue, then the member responsible will be provided an invoice for the entire value of the loss plus transportation and disposal costs as required by the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. This invoice may be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made. Milk from that member’s farm tank must be tested and found clear of drugs before the next tank of milk can be picked up. A hauler whose entire load sample shows the presence of drugs will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all show negative. ALL POSITIVE DRUG RESIDUE SHIPMENTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE ENFORCEMENT AGENCY.
MMPA Policy on Milk Quality QUALITY QUESTIONABLE
REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT
When a member suspects that the milk in the farm bulk tank is of poor quality they should call a MMPA Member Representative who will authorize milk in the tank to be dumped. If the member dumps the milk on their own, they must be sure to take the stick reading and record the number of pounds of milk, and report the information to the Member Representative.
If:
If the milk is dumped, the member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* In order to receive payment for an added water voluntary dump, the member must install a Swingline Safety Switch. The Swingline Safety Switch can be ordered from the St. Louis 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. **For members using more than one bulk tank, the assessment will be based on the value of milk in the tank or tanks in violation of the MMPA quality policy.
1. A load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. the milk cannot be sold through normal Grade A channels for reasons of quality which results in the load being sold or disposed of at a loss to MMPA, and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members that caused the contamination or rejection of the load, then, the member or members responsible will be charged the full value of the loss to MMPA plus transportation and disposal costs, and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums except for loads rejected for temperature. 4. MMPA will provide an invoice to the member for the amount of the loss, to be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made. If a member has a third occurrence or more 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 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.
* The member will only be paid for two (2) voluntary dumps in a rolling 12 month period.
Michigan Milk Messenger 29
Market Report For Milk Marketed in December 2012
MARKET STATISTICS Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds) This Month
Year Ago
Total Class 1 Sales
540,266,199
551,224,672
-1.99
Total Class 2 Sales
211,871,962
228,986,343
-7.47
Total Class 3 Sales
422,554,082
409,966,873
+3.07
Total Class 4 Sales
269,059,274
175,131,898
1,443,751,517
1,365,309,786
37.4%
40.4%
Total Production Class 1 Utilization
NATIONAL TRENDS (million pounds)
% Change
2012
2011
+53.63
Production California
3,416
3,496
-2.3
+5.75
Wisconsin
2,343
2,220
+5.5
Idaho
1,119
1,108
+1.0
New York
1,116
1,071
+4.2
Pennsylvania
900
889
+1.2
Texas
803
809
-0.7
Minnesota
786
753
+4.4
Michigan
762
722
+5.5
New Mexico
674
676
-0.3
Washington
515
513
+0.4
Ohio
456
439
+3.9
Indiana
317
303
+4.6
15,693
15,426
+1.7
186,624 182,734
+2.1
Mideast Federal Order #33 Current Month Total Producers 6,190 Average Daily Production per Farm 7,524 Average Protein Test 3.15% Average Butterfat Test 3.84% Average Other Solids Test 5.75% Average SCC Count (MMPA) 163,000
* Total U.S. * U.S. Y-T-D
COMPONENT PRICING INFORMATION Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price/lb.
$3.3113
Butterfat Price/lb.
$1.7276
Other Solids Price/lb.
$0.4758
Class III Price @ 3.5%
$ 18.66
Prod. Price Diff/cwt. (Mich. Mkt.) Uniform Price @ 3.5% SCC Adjustment/cwt./1000
30 30February February 2013 2013
$0.86 $ 19.52 $0.00090
% Change
* For 23 states
NASS Survey Prices Monthly Avg Cheese /lb 1.7925 Butter /lb 1.5981 Nonfat Dry Milk /lb 1.5384 Dry Whey /lb 0.6610
MMPA Staff NOVI (Headquarters) 248-474-6672 800-572-5824 General Manager Clay Galarneau, ext. 200 Member Services Milk Sales/Dispatch Finance/Controller Dean Letter, ext. 213 Carl Rasch, ext. 244 Joseph M. Diglio, ext. 240 Laboratory Supervisor Manufactured Product Sales Credit/Insurance Patti Huttula, ext. 219 Jim Dodson, ext. 229 Cheryl Schmandt, ext. 210 Human Resources Member Relations/Public Affairs Data Processing Cindy Tilden, ext. 220 Sheila Burkhardt, ext. 208 Gregory Schulkey, ext. 237 Member Communications Laura Moser, ext. 296 Alex Schnabelrauch, ext. 211
MANUFACTURING PLANTS
Constantine 269-435-2835 Plant Manager Dave Davis
MASTITIS MANAGEMENT Tom Herremans......................231-853-2045 Ravenna................. mobile 269-967-0890 Steven Lehman.......................989-875-3441 Ithaca .................... mobile 989-330-1638 Christy Dinsmoore........................................ Fairgrove............... mobile 989-528-9102 NORTH AREA Supervisor: Gerry Volz................................ St. Louis Office....................989-289-9219 Frank Brazeau........................920-834-4059 Oconto, Wis........... mobile 906-250-0337 Ben Chapin.................................................... Big Rapids............. mobile 989-289-0731 Preston Cole............................231-584-2587 Mancelona............. mobile 989-289-9301 Lyndsay Earl................................................. Ludington.............. mobile 231-519-2455 Angelee Kirsch.............................................. Harbor Beach........ mobile 231-414-4539 Lindsay Santure............................................ St. Johns.................. mobile 989-488-8159 Gerry Volz...............................989-848-5996 Fairview................. mobile 989-289-9219
MMPA FIELD STAFF
Ovid 989-834-2221 Plant Manager/Plant Operations David Wittkop
SOUTH AREA Supervisor: Ed Zuchnik.............................. Coldwater Office....................269-967-7351 Krista Beeker................................................. Howe, IN .............. mobile 269-986-6792 David Brady............................517-522-5965 Grass Lake............ mobile 517-937-9061 Emily Butcher................................................ Middlebury, IN...... mobile 269-535-0822 Kendra Kissane............................................. Hudsonville............ mobile 269-245-6632 Andrew Rupprecht....................................... Clio......................... mobile 269-986-6793 Elyse Martin.................................................. Eaton Rapids.......... mobile 810-701-6460 Ed Zuchnik.................................................... Three Rivers.......... mobile 269-967-7351 Other Services:
If you are unable to reach your assigned member representative, contact any one of the representatives listed in your area.
MMPA Labs Novi: 800-572-5824 (in MI) 800-233-2405 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mon-Fri
Gary Best................................810-664-4984 Lapeer .................... mobile 586-484-9279 Bulk Tank Calibration
Ovid: 989-834-2515 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily
Katie Pierson................................................. Coleman................. mobile 989-289-9686
Constantine: 800-391-7560 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily
Michael Marvin............................................. Marlette...............................989-670-4864 Energy Auditor
Merchandiseâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;St. Louis Supervisor: Duane Farmer..989-681-2334 Fax........................................989-681-3988 Toll Free...............................877-367-6455 Orders (Novi)...800-572-5824 then dial 2
Michigan Milk Messenger 31
32 February 2013 2 June 2012