Michigan Milk Messenger: May 2015 by Michigan Milk Producers Association

Messenger Michigan Milk

The official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association

Inside Also Inside

www.mimilk.com VOL. 97 ISSUE 11 MAY 2015

Quality Award Winner • YC Conference • DC Meeting

Michigan Milk Messenger

contents EDITOR’S LETTER

MMPA Matters

Quality Watch

8 10

The FARM Program: Necessary to Sell Your Milk

Alive and Well: Protecting Your Water Supply

News & Views

Legislative Watch

Features

MMPA / 4-H Milk Marketing Tour June 17-18

Q & A with 2014 MMPA Quality Award Winner Jacob and Elaine Jahfetson

Messenger | May 2015

2015 MMPA Young Cooperator Conference

Managing Editor.......................................................Sheila Burkhardt Editor......................................................................Alex Schnabelrauch Advertising Manager............................................Nancy Muszynski Circulation..........................................................................................2,972

An Equal Opportunity Employer – F/M/V/D Michigan Milk Messenger (USPS 345-320) is the official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association, published monthly since June 1919. Subscriptions: MMPA members, 50¢ per year; non-members, $5 per year.

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

Telephone: 248-474-6672 FAX: 248-474-0924 www.mimilk.com

Periodical postage paid at Novi, MI and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Michigan Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002. (ISSN 0026-2315)

18 18 20 22

Fading Blue Corduroy

Departments

Cover

National Ag Teacher Shortage

24 Merchandise

Spring has sprung and with it

2015 MMPA Dairy Communicator Meeting In Brief Industry Updates and News

Quality Premiums

comes the busy planting season. Check this issue for recaps of

26 Freeliners

spring MMPA meetings along

with tips from our 2014 MMPA

Classifieds

29 Policies 30 Market Report 31

Quality Award Winner. Photo credit: Misty Morning Photography

Staff

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.

Directors-At-Large

Officers Ken Nobis, President Mark Halbert, Vice President Eric Frahm, Treasurer Joe Diglio, General Manager/ Secretary Josep Barenys, Assistant Treasurer Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

Ken Nobis, St. Johns................................ 989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 201 Rodney Daniels, Whittemore................................................................989-756-4935 Dan Javor, Hastings.................................................................................269-948-8345 Mark Halbert, Battle Creek................................................................... 269-964-0511 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

Messenger | May 2015

Board of Directors

MMPA MATTERS

The FARM Program: Necessary to Sell Your Milk Dairy producers are accustomed to intense regulatory oversight because of the food safety implications that are part of milk production. We understand the need to ensure we are sending a high quality product to market from our farms every day.

arder to understand, though, is why consumers also worry about the mistreatment of our animals. “Why is providing our customers with a high quality, nutritious food not enough? Don’t they realize we care about and take care of our animals?” our members sometimes ask. “And, by the way, where was our co-op when these requests (directives) were forced on us?”

Messenger | May 2015

When animal care became an important issue for consumers, the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) developed guidelines it believed would efficiently address consumer concerns about where food comes from and how it is produced. A few generations back, the connection between city and country cousins was more direct, but it is not so today. However, many of our city cousins have developed a keen interest in the food they eat and are trying to reconnect with how food is produced. This has resulted in new challenges for all farmers, including dairy producers.

The NMPF animal care guidelines, called Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM), were formulated to meet those challenges. MMPA was involved in developing the guidelines and feels they fulfill their purpose

in as few steps as possible. Initially, compliance with FARM was voluntary; but because of pressure from consumers, MMPA’s customers have asked us to make the program mandatory. After weighing the consequences, the MMPA board decided last year our only choice was to mandate FARM compliance by all members effective December 31, 2015. Eighty-nine percent of our member milk was enrolled in the program voluntarily before we announced the need to make it a requirement of MMPA membership. We were – and still are – very proud of that fact. We thought 89 percent should be good enough, but our customers responded that less than 100 percent could be construed to mean animal care isn’t a priority with some of our members. I absolutely don’t believe that animal care is not a priority. (But then I’m not a consumer who has no link to dairy production.) Having talked to the MMPA field staff and visited with producers who are opposed to signing up, I understand the independent spirit in a farmer’s DNA is rubbed the wrong way by this requirement. When the MMPA board decided to move from voluntary to mandatory participation, we knew it wouldn’t be a popular decision, even

Ken Nobis

President

though it was necessary to retain market access. As market access requirements go, this one is less onerous than others. Yes, it requires more documentation, and we hear complaints from family-only operations that written protocols aren’t necessary for them. However, family members tend to specialize in one area of the operation, leaving knowledge gaps for other family members if they need to fill in unexpectedly. Personally, I find that when I put unwritten protocols in writing, I sometimes recognize I hadn’t thought the issue through as well as I could have. We probably wouldn’t be dealing with this issue were it not for undercover videos. Yes, some of the scenes in those videos are contrived. But they have effectively brought unwanted and unwarranted scrutiny that won’t go away; if anything, it will probably increase as new technology makes it even easier to watch our operations. Familiarizing ourselves with the FARM program and complying with its sound management practices will put another feather in MMPA’s cap. Our customers will have another reason to do business with MMPA. This will help support our mission “to market MMPA members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.”

QUALITY WATCH

Alive and Well: Protecting Your Water Supply Last month’s “Quality Watch” stressed the importance of Grade A surveys and check ratings. This month, we’ll focus on one of the Grade A inspection’s most complicated portions: the farm water supply.

Messenger | May 2015

ater supply debits are broken down into high hazard debits (five points) – cross connections between safe (potable) water supplies and unsafe (non-potable) water supplies, chemicals or sewers; submerged inlets; or any condition that may cause direct contamination of the well – and low hazard debits (two points) – potential submerged inlets and conditions that may cause indirect contamination of the well.

Dairy farms have great potential for cross connections between safe and unsafe water supplies. Some have separate water systems where reclaimed plate cooler water is repressurized for other uses. No backflow prevention is necessary if the reclaimed water systems are physically disconnected (with an air gap, not just valving) from the farm’s safe water supply. If backflow prevention is necessary, a reduced pressure zone backflow preventer (RPZ) or a double check valve with intermediate atmospheric vent (Watts 9D or equivalent) will suffice, allowing water to drain from a vent to prevent backflow. This vent must not be plugged. Single or double check valves (without vents) do not provide adequate protection for dairy farm water supplies. Per PMO requirements, milking areas must have a potable water supply for cleaning milking equipment during milking. Many CIP systems inject cleaning chemicals into water as it’s added to the wash vat and bulk tank. If the chemical container supplying these systems is larger than one gallon, backflow protection is necessary between the

injection point and the connection to the water system. The same rule applies for chemicals added to the water for udder washing or chemicals added to the water system for disinfection or water treatment. These chemicals must also meet National Sanitary Foundation (NSF) requirements for addition to drinking water if they are added to the potable water system. The backflow prevention devices referenced above will, in most cases, provide sufficient protection. Direct contamination of the well is a five-point debit and includes missing or damaged well caps, damaged well casings and standing water or deep depressions near the well casing. Your state inspector or member representative can help ensure well locations meet specific isolation distances from cattle housing, pastures, lagoons and fuel and pesticide/ herbicide storage; state laws often supersede the PMO.

Steve Lehman

Technical Area Supervisor

a potable water supply line is in direct contact with a contaminant contained within a vessel. Using an RPZ or Watts 9D-style device provides protection from submerged inlets. An air gap or vacuum breaker may also be effective. Air gaps must be at least twice the diameter of the inlet pipe, and most vacuum breakers must be installed so no shutoff valves exist between the vacuum breaker and the end of the pipe or hose. Potential submerged inlets are two-point debits, while existing submerged inlets are fivepoint debits. Pressure washers or booster pumps must not be able to draw a vacuum on the potable water system. The Watts N36 relief valve is no longer recognized by MDARD as an adequate measure of protection. While existing installations may remain, any modifications or additions will require direct potable water supply connections be protected by a low pressure cutoff switch or RPZ. The preferred method is to connect the pressure washer to a supply reservoir that is isolated from the potable water system. Pressure washer violations may be considered major or minor debits.

A list of the types and point values of water supply debits may be found on pages 95-100 of the 2011 revision Indirect contamination of the well is a two-point debit and includes loose well of “Methods of Making Sanitation caps, unsealed electrical openings to the Ratings of Milk Shippers” at http://1.usa. gov/1DDGJJv. well, unscreened vents and frost-free hydrants within 10 feet without proper To aid regulatory agencies in the backflow protection. The Watts #8 evaluation of your water system, vacuum breaker (or equivalent) meets MMPA has developed the “Water the requirement for proper backflow Supply Record Card” that can be found prevention in the case of frost-free in the blue MMPA Milkhouse Binder hydrants. containing your Grade A permit. Your Submerged inlets (or potential submerged inlets) occur when the end of a potable water supply line extends below the top rim of a container that may hold a contaminant (including nonpotable water), or when the exterior of

member representative will assist you in completing this form. If you are drilling a new well, planning a new water supply system or making changes to your existing system, contact your member representative and state inspector.

NEWS & VIEWS

March Prices Begin to Stabilize The USDA announced March’s Class III milk price rose 10 cents to $15.56 per hundredweight, although it is $7.77 below March 2014’s price. The March Class IV price is $13.80, down 2 cents from February, and $9.86 below a year ago.

Producers Scoring 95 percent or more on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Ratings

Messenger | May 2015

Packard Farms LLC Bebow Dairy Inc. Central Michigan Milk Production LLC * Green Meadows Farm Inc. Green Meadows Farm Inc. Double Eagle Dairy Inc. Vanderploeg Holsteins LLC Vanderploeg Holsteins II LLC Terry/Jerry Jr/ Jerry Koebel Ferry Farms LLC Thomas Pierce MSU Kellogg Farm Milton Preston Joni Hochstetler Carl Zook Howard Payne Terry/Jerry Jr/Jerry Koebel Ferry Farms LLC Rich Acres Farms Christopher/Beth Brenner* The Preston Farms Easterday Dairy Farm Carlton/Carol Marz/David/Cecelia Evans Daniel Williams Thomas Pierce Wagner Family Farms LLC Milton Preston Allen Yoder Joni Borkholder *100 percent

MMPA Hires New CFO Josep Barenys MMPA has hired Josep Barenys to help guide the cooperative’s strategic growth as chief financial officer. Josep has over 14 years of experience working in international dairy processing finance. After college graduation, he joined Dannon Spain as a dairy financial analyst and moved to Miami in 2005 to work as finance director for the company’s Latin America and North America operations. Most recently, Josep served as senior director of finance operations for Dannon North America in White Plains, New York. He has bachelor’s degrees in business administration and business economics from Pompeu Fabra University and Catalonia Polytechnic University – Barcelona Tech, respectively.

“Josep’s background and expertise will enhance our ability to evaluate and execute progressive strategic initiatives. Adding his leadership to our existing talented team will help move MMPA into the future and have an immediate impact on our plan to continuously improve,” MMPA General Manager Joe Diglio says. “We are thrilled to secure such a talented individual that will add value and benefit the entire team. As MMPA looks forward and plans for the future, Josep’s diverse experience will help us think differently and explore new development concepts.” As MMPA CFO, Josep will help lead vital functions of the cooperative’s business including human resources, accounting and credit and risk.

SAVE THE DATE!

Mark your calendars for an upcoming MMPA/Merck Animal Health Herd Health Plan Workshop in your area. Dates and locations follow:

MMPA/Merck Animal Health HHP Workshops

May 26 – Double Tree Bay City-Riverfront, Bay City May 27 – Crossroads Banquet Center, Grand Rapids May 28 – Okemos Conference Center, Okemos Participants will leave with resources to develop farm-specific standard operating procedures, a start to a Herd Health Plan and protocol for euthanasia and down cow movement. Register by May 22 by calling Marianne Gasiewski at the Novi office (248474-6672, ext. 215 or Gasiewski@mimilk.com.) Each workshop will start at 10 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m. Lunch will be provided.

District One Art Riske, Hanover......................................................... 517-524-6015 Clark Emmons, Fayette, OH......................................... 419-452-6764 Jeff Alexander, Sand Lake............................................ 517-563-8729 Perry Cisco, Hudson...................................................... 517-404-7997 Carlton Evans, Litchfield.............................................. 517-398-0629

District Two Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN................................ 574-825-5198 Donald Bever, Delton................................................... 269-671-5050 Jim Droscha, Charlotte................................................. 517-543-5577 Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN.................................. 574-825-2454 Danny Ransler, Gobles................................................. 269-628-4218

District Three 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 Four Dave Folkersma, Rudyard............................................ 906-478-3023 Steve Brock, Daggett.................................................... 906-753-6439 Ron Lucas, Posen........................................................... 989-379-4694 Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth......................................... 231-588-6084 Jeremy Werth, Herron.................................................. 989-464-4022

District Five 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 Six 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 Seven 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 Eight Mike Bender, Croswell.................................................. 810-679-4782 Scott Lamb, Jeddo......................................................... 810-404-8003 Mike Noll, Croswell........................................................ 810-404-4071 Tim Kubacki, Sebewaing............................................. 989-883-3249 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

MSU CANR Dean Search Process Begins MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) Dean Fred Poston plans to retire at the end of 2015. The process for selecting his replacement is shared by the CANR faculty represented by the College Advisory Council (CAC) and MSU Provost June Youatt. In accordance with the guidelines established in the CANR Bylaws for Academic Governance, a committee composed of the following will lead the search process: nine faculty members, one member of the CANR Chairs and School Directors group, one MSU Extension educator, one staff representative, one graduate student, one undergraduate student, one MSU College Dean and the Associate Provost/ Associate Vice President for Academic Human Resources (member with voice only.) The committee is working with an executive search firm experienced in academic administration to identify and recruit candidates. Phil Korson, president of the Cherry Marketing Institute, will chair a Stakeholder Advisory Council (StAC.) Though he is a non-voting member of the search committee, he will participate in all critical search committee functions and is charged with gathering input from stakeholders, commodity groups and MSU alumni. This includes screening candidates and developing a process for stakeholders to interact with finalists. More information on the process and progress will be available on the MSU CANR website as it becomes available.

Upcoming Events May Hauler Meetings Continue

June 17-18 MMPA 4-H Milk Marketing Tour Novi 30 Advisory Committee Meeting Novi

Messenger | May 2015

MMPA Advisory Committee

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

NMPF Applauds Introduction of Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act Legislation Will Establish Labeling Guidelines to Help Farmers and Consumers

he issue of labeling foods made with genetically modified ingredients took center stage on Capitol Hill as March drew to a close.

• GMOs Increase Food Variety and Protect our Food Supply: GM technology adds desirable traits from nature, without introducing anything unnatural or using chemicals, so that food is more plentiful.

Lidback said the need to build a viable small business led her family to embrace using genetically modified seeds for feed. “I also believe that biotechnology enables us to lessen the environmental impact that growing can have because less fertilizer and pesticides are used to grow an abundant crop,” she said. If the marketplace forced her to use nonGMO feed grains – most of which would be certified organic – her farm’s feed bill would more than double each month, from $5,328 to $12,000, Lidback added.

• GMOs Have a Strong Track Record of Success: GM technology is not new. In fact, it has been around for the past 20 years, and today, 70 to 80 percent of the food we eat, both in the United States and away from home, contains ingredients that have been genetically modified.

Jim Mulhern, NMPF President and CEO

Messenger | May 2015

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) Provide Great Benefits to American Consumers:

On March 24, Vermont dairy farmer Joanna Lidback and Land O’Lakes Chief Executive Officer Chris Policinski were among six witnesses testifying on mandatory GMO labeling laws before the House Agriculture Committee. The following day, NMPF joined numerous other agriculture groups in endorsing new, bipartisan federal legislation establishing a protocol for food marketers wishing to voluntarily label foods with GMO ingredients.

“Rather than create a confusing patchwork of state policies, this federal legislation would establish uniform rules and a national certification program for foods that have been produced without bioengineering.”

Fast Facts on GMO Labeling

Policinski called mandatory GMO labeling “an effort to stigmatize a form of technology and attempt to drive it out of the marketplace.” He said a state-by-state patchwork of mandatory GMO labeling laws “would be a logistical nightmare, creating dozens of different standards, different definitions and different exemptions.” A better approach, he said, would be voluntary national labeling, which would respect both the consumer’s right to choose in the marketplace and also a farmer’s right to choose a safe, proven technology.

The day after the committee hearing, a bipartisan group of 17 House members reintroduced the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act, under which the Food and Drug Administration would set national standards for companies wishing to label their products as either containing or not containing genetically modified ingredients. NMPF immediately endorsed the bill. “Rather than create a confusing patchwork of state policies, this federal legislation would establish uniform rules and a national certification program for foods that have been produced without bioengineering,” NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern said. “If food companies wish to voluntarily label their products as GMO-free, this legislation lets them do it.”

• GMOs Make Food More Affordable: GM technology helps reduce the price of crops used for food, such as corn, soybeans and sugar beets by as much as 15 to 30 percent. • GMOs Help the Environment: Ingredients grown using GM technology require fewer pesticides, less water and keep production costs down. • GMOs Make it Easier to Address Global Hunger: One in eight people among the world’s growing population of 7 billion do not have enough to eat. Safe and effective methods of food production, like crops produced through GM technology, can help us feed the hungry and malnourished in developing nations around the world.

If forage is worth making, it is worth protecting. More than just an inoculant. • Control butyric acid • Increase rate of NDFd in rumen

A Federal Labeling Standard For Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) Will Help Americans by:

• Gain 5% more silage at feedout

• Keeping Grocery Bills Down: A recent Cornell University study found that statewide GMO labeling laws could increase costs in the checkout aisle by an average of $500 per family per year. Some families could see their grocery bills increase by $1,500 annually. • Eliminating Confusion: Remove the confusion and uncertainty of a 50 state patchwork of GMO safety and labeling laws, and affirm the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as the nation’s authority for the use and labeling of genetically modified food ingredients. • Advancing Food Safety: Require the FDA to conduct a safety review of all new GMO traits before they are introduced into commerce. FDA will be empowered to mandate the labeling of GMO food ingredients if the agency determines there is a health or safety issue with an ingredient derived from a GMO.

• Higher starch retention • 4-day fermentation

Silage Pro®

American Farm Products INC. www.afpltd.net

American Farm Products Arlin Koglin 989-553-3370 Available through MMPA Merchandise • Informing Consumers: The FDA will establish federal standards for companies that want to voluntarily label their product for the absence-of or presence-of GMO food ingredients so that consumers clearly understand their choices in the marketplace.

• Providing Consistency: The FDA will define the term “natural” for its use on food and beverage products so that food and beverage companies and consumers have a consistent legal framework that will guide food labels and inform consumer choice.

Messenger | May 2015

• GMO Safety has been Affirmed by the Leading Global Science and Health Organizations: Many of the most influential regulatory agencies and organizations that study the safety of the food supply, including the FDA, the American Medical Association (AMA), the World Health Organization (WHO), Health Canada, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Academy of Sciences, have found genetically modified food ingredients are safe and there are no negative health effects associated with their use.

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

MMPA Meets with Michigan House Ag Committee

ictured at left is Representative Dan Lauwers (R-81), chairman of the Michigan House Agriculture Committee, with MMPA President Ken Nobis.

During the presentation, Nobis reviewed a variety of information about MMPA and Michigan’s dairy industry, saying, “Milk production in Michigan has increased 60 percent since 2000 while cow numbers have increased 30 percent during this time.” Nobis commented on several expansion projects MMPA has implemented at the Ovid and Constantine manufacturing plants and discussed the increasing role of the export market in the dairy industry. He reviewed milk’s journey from the farm to the consumer and commented on the quality of MMPA member milk. “Nearly half of the awards presented in the recent National Quality Award Program were given to MMPA members,” Nobis added.

$3.6 Million Paid to MMPA Members

ichigan Milk Producers Association

“The almost $5.5 million in equity retirements

(MMPA) made cash payments of $3.6

and cash patronage refunds is a reflection of our

million in equity retirements in April.

commitment to return value to our member-

These cash payments represent the retirement of the

owners,” Joe Diglio, MMPA general manager, says.

2006 equities. This is in addition to the $1.8 million in

“We’ve been able to serve Michigan dairy farmers

cash patronage from 2014 earnings paid to members

for nearly a century due to our high-quality milk

earlier this year. Combined, MMPA has distributed nearly

supply, responsible financial management and

$5.5 million in addition to the monthly milk checks to its

competitive member value return.”

dairy farmer members in the first four months of 2015.

During fiscal year 2014, MMPA members earned

Messenger | May 2015

$15.2 million in over-order value. These premiums

“The almost $5.5 million in equity retirements and cash

serve as a reflection of MMPA’s financial strength

patronage refunds is a reflection of our commitment

and are a combination of quality, volume and

to return value to our member-owners,” Joe Diglio,

over-order premiums. MMPA has achieved these

MMPA general manager, says. “We’ve been able to serve Michigan dairy farmers for nearly a century due

benchmark goals through earnings from the

to our high-quality milk supply, responsible financial

association’s plant operations and from its bulk

management and competitive member value return.”

milk marketing operations.

Learn more @ the about co-ops and MMPA/4-H Milk Learn more milk marketing... @ the Marketing Tour about co-ops and MMPA/4-H Milk June 17-18! milk marketing... Marketing Tour What:

MMPA/4-H Milk Marketing Tour - two days of dairy & milk marketing tours, presentations and activities

Who: What:

15-18-year-old (asMarketing of Jan. 1, 2015) other students MMPA/4-H Milk Tour 4-H/FFA - two daysmembers of dairy &ormilk marketing interested in dairy orand milk marketing tours, presentations activities

June 17-18!

When: June 17-18, 2015 Who: 15-18-year-old (as of Jan. 1, 2015) 4-H/FFA members or other students interested Where: Novi, Mich.in dairy or milk marketing When: JuneI 17-18, 2015 Why Should Attend? 1. Meet other students interested in dairy Where: Novi, Mich. 2. Tour a dairy processing plant

Why Should I Attend? 3. Meet leaders in the Michigan dairy industry

>>> >>>

1. other students interested in dairy 4-H Dairy Conference in 4. Meet Earn the chance to attend the National 2. Madison, Tour a dairy processing plant Wisc. 3. Meet leaders in the Michigan dairy industry Space is4.limited thetofirst 30 register today! Earn the to chance attend thestudents, National 4-Hso Dairy Conference in Call the MMPA Member Relations Department with questions 248-474-6672. Madison, Wisc.

*Students who have already participated in the MMPA/ 4-H Milk Marketing Tour are not eligible to attend.

Space is limited to the first 30 students, so register today!

Call the MMPA Member Relations Department with questions 248-474-6672. Please complete this form & mail it to: Melissa Elischer, Registration Michigan State University, Anthony Hall, 474 S. Shaw Ln.,

*Students who have already participated in the MMPA/ 4-H Milk Marketing Tour are not eligible to attend.

Rm 1287H, East Lansing, MI 48824

complete this form & mail it to: Melissa Elischer, Participant InformationPlease Registration Michigan State University, Anthony Hall, 474 S. Shaw Ln.,

Registrations Due May 27 Rm 1287H, East Lansing, MI 48824 Name:________________________________ Address:_______________________ Participant Information City:___________ State:___ Zip:_____ Registrations Due May 27 County:___________________ Phone:______________ Age:___ Gender:___ Name:________________________________ Affiliation: 4-H ____ FFA ____ Other City:___________ ____ Address:_______________________ State:___ Zip:_____ County:___________________ Phone:______________ Age:___ Gender:___ Affiliation: 4-H ____ FFA ____ Other ____ Name:________________________________ Address:_______________________ City:___________ Adult Chaperone Information State:___ Zip:_____ Phone:______________ Name:________________________________ Address:_______________________ City:___________ State:___ Zip:_____ Phone:______________

Messenger | May 2015

Adult Chaperone Information

Q & A with 2014 MMPA Quality Award Winner Jacob and Elaine Jahfetson We caught up with back-to-back MMPA Quality Award Winners Jacob and Elaine Jahfetson to see how the couple, who has been dairy farming for over three decades, has managed to produce such high quality milk. Battling the harsh weather conditions of the northwest Upper Peninsula, the Jahfetsons milk 24 cows in Keweenaw Bay (Baraga County.) They achieved the following quality averages during the 2014 fiscal year: a somatic cell count of 40,083, pre-incubated bacteria count of 2,333 and raw bacteria count of 1,417.

in the teat ends, and it’s almost impossible to get all that bacteria out of those cracks during udder prep. When and why did you start focusing on milk quality? After our local dairy co-op went bankrupt in the 1980s because of milk quality issues, we missed three milk checks. Then we signed on with MMPA. We focused more on milk quality when we started getting quality premiums. When the price of milk went down over the years, it was always nice to get that extra income because of our quality. Explain your milking procedure. We wash the udder using Bac-Drop solution mixed with water and use Sani-Prep towels, continuing to wipe and clean the teats thoroughly until the towel comes back clean. We focus on the teats, especially the teat ends. (We’re very fussy with udder prepping.) The unit is attached. When the milk stream lessens, we release the vacuum and pull the unit straight down – not at an angle. Then we post dip with I-deal. The unit is dipped in a mixture of sanitizer and water and allowed to drip.

What’s your farm setup? We milk in a 22-stall stanchion barn built in 1931. A calf barn is attached, and we also have a small barn for heifers. Because of overcrowding, a few dry cows and several heifers were kept in loose housing over the winter.

Messenger | May 2015

What’s your rolling herd average? Butterfat? Protein?

In April, our RHA was 18,538 pounds, butterfat was 696 pounds and protein was 580 pounds. How many cows left your herd last year? Six – two were udder related. We went 11 months without a new case of mastitis and ended the year with two cases total.

Do you cull mastitis cows? If the cow responds well to treatment and has a soft, healthy udder, we usually don’t cull. If the udder is hard and fibrous, we are more likely to cull. If a cow has contracted mastitis on back-to-back lactations, we don’t breed her back. Cows don’t get a third chance, even if it’s a different quarter. Mastitis slows you down. How often is your milking system evaluated? We like to get it checked every nine months. In 2011, three cows came down with hot mastitis cases because our vacuum pressure gauge wasn’t measuring pressure at the inflation correctly. When the vacuum isn’t correct, it’s very harmful to the teat ends. Bacteria can collect in the cracks

How do you maintain healthy teat ends? We do our best to prevent over milking, ensuring there’s not too much vacuum pressure and confirming the unit isn’t angled while it’s attached. How do you detect mastitis? Before getting Internet service last year, we’d call the MMPA Novi lab often for our test results. Now, we watch our MMPA counts every other day online and try to catch mastitis as early as possible. We’re typically around a 30,000 cells/mL SCC. But since we’re a smaller herd, one quarter of one cow will elevate our counts to over 100,000 cells/mL in no time. It only takes one high quarter to bounce us up and take us out of contention for

the MMPA Gold Quality Award. I also check the DHI linear scoresheet and CMT paddle any cow higher than a 3.5. If a cow has a swollen, hard udder, we CMT paddle her immediately.

What about dry cows? We cut them down on feed at the end of their lactation; then we dry them off with Tomorrow. We dip each quarter after this treatment and add a leg band so treated cows aren’t milked by mistake. If she has been a problem cow, I paddle and treat her with Today before the dry treatment. Do you have written protocols for detecting and treating mastitis? We do now, but we didn’t years back. In case we’re laid up, they are there for whoever takes the reins. Since we have one barn where all the cows – dry and milking – are kept, we have to be careful and use leg bands for treated and dry cows so others know whose milk is safe to go into the tank. What was your biggest quality breakthrough? In July 2000, our SCC was 435,000 cells/mL, raw bacteria count was 16,000 cells/mL and PI count was 460,000 cells/mL. What really put us over the edge was losing some of our greatest producing cows to preventable mastitis. We were having to sell cows with high counts, even though they gave us great milk

volumes. It took us a while to figure out what was really going wrong. But once we figured out the issue, got rid of the problem cows and achieved better quality, it was much easier to maintain. Is it easier or harder to produce quality milk with a smaller herd? I think it’s easier to improve quality as a smaller herd because we have fewer cows to keep track of and can be perfectionists. However, in larger herds it’s easier to maintain superior quality. In our situation, one bad quarter in the bulk tank can make a huge difference in our test results. What would you say to MMPA members struggling with high counts? Study what you’ve done in the past 12 months, and if your counts aren’t good, you have a problem. Identifying the problem is key. Are you breeding problem cows back? Is your equipment working correctly? Are your milkers trained, educated about

what they are doing and interested in milking? It’s important that your udder prep is thorough even with a large number of cows. You can’t have dirty teat ends and expect high quality milk. Whatever you do, don’t over or under milk, and make sure you’re on DHI test. If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? It would have been nice to go through a short dairy course to learn new, modern practices before we started in the dairy business. And we should have used the CMT paddle sooner. We didn’t use it for our first five years in business, and it’s so important to detect and monitor treatment of mastitis cows. What’s next? We’re going to retire in the next year or two. It’s difficult with only six shippers in our three-county area. There are no young people starting out in the business, so we’ll sell the cows and raise a few beef cattle and some hay. We still love to dairy, but it’s harder on our bodies, and we can’t keep doing it forever. We are thankful for all the help and advice from MMPA throughout our farming career and enjoy being part of the co-op. The Jahfestons were named MMPA’s 2014 Quality Award Winner at the Annual State Delegate Meeting on March 19. Pictured on the previous page (left to right) are Jason, Elaine, Jacob, David and Jackie Jahfetson. Jacob (left) and Elaine (top) have worked to improve their Upper Peninsula herd’s quality for over three decades.

Messenger | May 2015

What’s your protocol with fresh cows? We use the same udder prep routine we use with the other cows and milk into a bucket. We use the cleanest unit to make sure we prevent bacteria from getting into the freshened udder. We use Udder Comfort lotion on swollen fresh udders twice a day for three to four days. Cows and heifers with swollen udders get two shots of a diuretic (Salix.) On the fourth milking, we paddle the fresh cow to see if the milk is mixing in. If it is, once the diuretic is free from her system, her milk goes into the tank. If the paddle shows high SCCs, we treat with Today in the infected quarter and repeat 12 hours later.

2015 MMPA Young Cooperator Conference Keys to the Future of Dairy: The Four Legged Milk Stool By Allison Stuby “The future of the dairy industry will be determined by how dairy farmers react to a changing world,” Gary Sipiorski, Vita Plus dairy development manager, relayed to attendees during the MMPA Young Cooperators (YC) Conference in Lansing on April 10.

n his presentation to the 80 YCs in attendance, Sipiorski reflected on a visit to Nobis Dairy Farm in 1991. “Just like your president, I want everyone in this room to still be in the dairy business 24 years from now,” he added.

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In addition to Sipiorski’s presentation, YC Conference attendees had a chance to hear co-op updates from MMPA President Ken Nobis and MMPA General Manager Joe Diglio, checkoff highlights from United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) CEO Sharon Toth and dairy nutrition talking points from UDIM Director of Nutrition Affairs Kathi Eckler. In the afternoon, participants toured both the MMPA Ovid Plant and Nobis Dairy Farm in St. Johns before wrapping up the evening with dinner and team trivia.

Sipiorski examined keys to the future of dairy, urging YCs to focus on the four legged milk stool: 1 Know how to keep your cows as comfortable as possible 2 Grow high quality feed 3 Know your numbers 4 Know how to work with people

With these solid legs supporting the weight of a dairy farmer’s operation, Sipiorski sees a bright future for the savvy dairyman and woman. Further, he warned producers about the future opportunities and threats of the dairy business: volatility of commodities, fluctuations in exports, global events, domestic product innovations, consolidation of farms and infrastructure, new technologies, generational transfers and profitable preparation.

“Let’s talk about change. ” Sipiorski said. “When facing change, some people see a mountain, while others see a speed bump.” As Sipiorski outlined, the process of change starts with denial, then continues onto anger, realization, depression, acceptance and finally growth. “You need to know this process, because you will go through it,” he asserted. Fluctuations in milk prices are a constant battle, and Sipiorski urged the young farmers to be smart about their money, especially when prices are favorable. “Were you smart last year?” he asked. “The best way to accommodate price fluctuations is to be smart when prices are high.” In his remarks, he recommended farmers pay off payables, pay down their line of credit, build up cash, repair and replace needed equipment, be careful about paying down term loans (you have to rewrite the loan to get the principal back), prepay future expenses and prepare for coming years when margins are high.

Sipiorski advised YCs to develop a business plan, know goals and objectives, understand strengths and weaknesses and have a plan for financial and business transitions. Change is coming in a variety of forms to the future of the dairy industry. But the key is to be prepared and rest on the solid foundation of the fourlegged milk stool. “Some people say, ‘I don’t like the future,’” Sipiorski concluded. “I say, ‘Yes, it’s pretty scary. But it depends on how you look at it. I choose to look at the dairy industry not like a sunset, but a sunrise of new opportunity and potential for success.’”

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“I don’t care how many cows you have, I want you to be in the top third,” Sipiorski said. ”Using a 2014 third quarter summary from the accounting firm of Nietzke and Faupel, the difference between the average cost of production for all of the herds in the report and the cost of production for the top third of producers was $1.66 per hundred pounds of milk. What seems to be pocket change translates to $332 per cow. Applying that information in a conservative example of 20,000 pounds of milk per cow if you have 1,000 cows, you’re looking at $330,000 for the top 30 percent herds of additional income over all of the herds in the report. You need to do better than just break even to stay in business.”

Fading Blue Corduroy “I believe in the future of agriculture, with a faith born not of words but of deeds…”

he FFA Creed has been memorized and recited by millions of agriculture students across the country since 1928. Even after decades of modernization, the organization still stands as a symbol of agricultural leadership, growth and career success. Yet, despite record state and national membership, the organization is facing a threat that could mean far fewer students donning the blue corduroy jacket.

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“Nationwide, 48 states are experiencing a shortage of agriculture, food and natural resources (AFNR) educators,” Dr. Randy Showerman, AFNR cluster state supervisor and state FFA advisor, explains. “With fewer farm families supplying students to the industry, there has never been a more important time for rural and urban students to learn about agriculture and the sector’s career opportunities.”

High Demand, Low Supply Michigan is home to 6,734 FFA members and 8,251 agriculture education students. Despite impacting less than 1 percent of total high school enrollment, the program is gaining popularity. “Accordingly to a Purdue study, FFA members are more actively engaged in school and community activities than their peers, more likely to attend two- and four-year colleges and much more likely to identify a career goal in agriculture than the typical student,” Dr. Showerman explains. “These factors have made the program attractive to agricultural and urban school districts alike.” But even as more schools show interest in agriculture education, the state has discovered the hard truth – no teachers, no students, no programs.

The numbers speak for themselves:

• Last year two agriculture education programs were forced to close because of the teacher shortage.

• Thirty of Michigan’s 126 current

agriculture educators are annually authorized – utilizing their agriculture experience as a temporary certificate in lieu of an AFNR education degree.

• There are three open positions currently waiting to be filled.

• Three school systems are interested in starting new programs.

• There are zero agriculture education

graduates in their fifth year of college currently student intern teaching.

Roadblocks Abound So what’s keeping graduates out of the classroom? Dr. Showerman explains, “Larger class sizes, fewer programs with extended summer contracts, increased demands in the classroom and higher salary potential in agriculture business and industry drive many potential teachers to pursue other careers. The versatility of our graduates make them desirable hires for the rest of the industry, and regardless of the $15,000-20,000 of scholarships awarded to the average agriculture education student, many can’t justify a year of unpaid student teaching.” While the statistics look bleak and the barriers seem insurmountable, five passionate Michigan State University (MSU) students – the only Michigan institution offering a degree in AFNR education – are bucking the trend and preparing for a year of intern teaching. “I wouldn’t be who I am today without agriculture education and FFA,” Casie Forbush, 22-year-old MSU AFNR education senior and granddaughter to one of MMPA’s early members, attests. “I was painfully shy growing up, and FFA gave me poise and confidence. Even though becoming an agriculture educator is far from easy, I want to pass that opportunity on to others.”

Industry and MSU Collaboration Rest assured, these future agriculture teachers aren’t alone. Both industry and educational partners have recognized the imminent impact of the agriculture teacher shortage and are taking action.

The Michigan FFA Foundation and MSU Department of Community Sustainability is helping drum up financial support along with additional training and mentorship opportunities through their new “Challenge 24” program; their goal is to annually bring in 24 freshman prospective teachers by 2024. (Three of the 24 planned scholarships have been funded to date.) Ten high school sophomores and juniors will kick off the inaugural Challenge 24 Academy July 27-28, spending two days learning more about MSU’s AFNR education program, writing and teaching practice lessons plans and asking questions. Those completing the academy will be eligible to receive $2,400 in scholarships.

this opportunity to FFA members entering any college at the university. It’s a testament to the agriculture industry’s continuous partnership with the university and the widespread credibility of FFA and agriculture education,” Dr. Showerman says.

Getting Involved Yet, the agriculture educator shortage is far from remedied. “Many students don’t see agriculture education as a possible career. We need your help encouraging the young people in your communities to become ag teachers,” Dr. Showerman urges. “If we had more teachers, we could have far more Michigan programs.” For the dairy industry, the benefits of FFA and agriculture education extend far beyond the blue jacket. “I had to explain to a biochemistry classmate why there’s no ‘gluten-free’ label on milk,” Casie says. “There’s a deficit of agriculture knowledge in our culture, and that’s why I want to be an AFNR educator. My goal is to grow and teach students so they become more informed consumers and agriculture advocates.” For more information about the Michigan FFA Association and how you can support the program, visit www.MichiganFFA.org or contact the Michigan FFA Foundation at 517-432-2482. Whether you’re an FFA alumnus or supporter, the Michigan FFA is encouraging you to get involved. You can make a difference by:

The university is also chipping in, announcing that FFA members completing a state approved secondary AFNR education program and earning the State FFA Degree will qualify for six general MSU credits. “MSU’s administration is very excited to offer

• Serving as a guest speaker • Hosting a student’s fair project or

• Supporting the Michigan FFA Foundation’s endowments or the Challenge 24 program

FFA farm tours

• Judging leadership contests • Sitting on your local agriculture

Casie Forbush (top left) is one of only five statewide college students graduating with an agriculture education degree and teaching certificate over the next two years. Despite developing students’ potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success, the National FFA Organization is struggling to open new programs due to a nationwide teacher shortage. Photo credit: Alan Green, Michigan FFA Association

Messenger | May 2015

In another effort to reduce educational costs, former Michigan FFA Project Consultant Charles Snyder recently unveiled a $500,000 planned gift to help support agriculture education students during their fifth-year student intern teaching experience.

education advisory committee 19

MMPA Dairy Communicators Meeting Communicating the Nutritional Truth to Consumers By Allison Stuby

Messenger | May 2015

Why do I need milk? What if milk upsets my stomach? Isn’t organic milk more nutritious? Doesn’t pasteurization remove all of the nutrition?

Today’s consumer has a lot of questions about dairy and more than a few barriers to achieving the recommended three servings a day. But with a day of informational sessions and trainings under their belt, over 50 MMPA Dairy Communicators (DC) attending the group’s annual meeting on April 16 have a toolbox of information and resources to help answer consumer questions. In addition to updates from MMPA President Ken Nobis and United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) Executive Director of Communications Staci GarciaNagel, the participants had their choice of attending four breakout sessions. These sessions included dairy nutrition, digital customer insights, classroom presentations and Instagram and were presented by UDIM Director of Nutrition Affairs Kathi Eckler, Dairy Management Inc. Senior Vice President of Digital Initiatives Don Schindler and dairy promoter Leona Daniels. In the first afternoon breakout, Eckler empowered the DCs with dairy nutrition information. Eckler demonstrated how to communicate effectively with consumers in a world with many voices spreading

Pictured below: UDIM’s Kathi Eckler (top) and longtime dairy promoter Leona Daniels (bottom) both led breakout sessions during MMPA’s Dairy Communicator Meeting on April 16. Pictured at right: The 2015 MMPA Dairy Communicator service award winners at this year’s meeting included: front (left to right) Doreen Slavik and Kay Willcome and back (left to right) Terri Stakenas, Joanmarie Weiss, Arlene Ter Haar, Bertha Mae Stough and Carla Wardin. A complete list of recipients is listed on the next page.

misinformation. “There are too many people talking about nutrition and they muck up the real message,” Eckler said. “We need to keep putting our message out there and communicate the truth to consumers.” She stressed the importance of being prepared to respond to questions and sharing the true message. “When faced with a consumer question, first recognize what their understanding is and then try to direct them to the right information,” Eckler advised. “But if you don’t know the answer to a difficult question, don’t fake it – punt! Direct them to UDIM resources and staff. We have five nutritionists available to answer difficult questions.” Eckler asserted throughout her presentation that listening and understanding consumer questions helps farmers grasp concerns and address the real problem. “Ask why they’re asking,” Eckler urged. “If you don’t make assumptions about what the person is asking and why, the underlying concern may be simpler than you think.” Eckler provided the DCs with great talking points to field some of the most common dairy questions. Her tips are included on the next page.

MMPA Dairy Communicator Service Awards 25 Years Kay Willcome Grand Rapids Local 20 Years Ken DeZeeuw Evart Local

Why Do I Need Milk? Milk is packed with important nutrients including calcium, protein, phosphorus, potassium and vitamins A, B and D. “Keep focused on the message that milk is a nutrient powerhouse. Calcium is they key important nutrient and don’t forget the importance of Vitamin B for energy,” Eckler said. “There are four nutrients that Americans don’t get enough of in their diet, and milk provides three: calcium, Vitamin D and potassium.”

What if Milk Upsets my Stomach? Some consumers are lactose intolerant because they don’t produce enough lactase to digest milk. Eckler recommended common solutions for these consumers including lactose-free milk, hard cheeses, yogurt and eating dairy with other foods. “Lactose intolerance can be an acquired problem and the solution is to eat dairy. You can recommend the ‘go low, go slow’ method. Try small amounts of dairy first and then increase it slowly to build tolerance,” Eckler said.

Isn’t Organic Milk More Nutritious? Organic products are an increasing force in the food marketplace, causing some consumers to believe organic milk is a superior product. According to Eckler, studies show no difference between organic and conventional milk.

Doris Stuever Mid-Thumb Local 15 Years Debra Krafft Frankenmuth Local Doreen Slavik Mid-Michigan Local

“There is no nutritional advantage to organic milk,” Eckler explained.

Terri Stakenas Muskegon Local

Doesn’t Pasteurization Remove all of Milk’s Nutrition?

Arlene Ter Haar West Michigan Local

“Are you getting questions about consumers wanting to drink raw milk?” Eckler asked the group of DCs. According to Eckler, some consumers who elect to drink raw milk are misinformed about the process of pasteurization and do not realize how fast the milk is heated and at what temperature. Pasteurization raises raw milk to 160° Fahrenheit for 15 seconds to remove harmful bacteria such as listeria. “There’s nothing nutritionally wrong with raw milk, but it is a food safety concern because people that don’t live on your farms haven’t built up immunities to the bacteria in your milk,” she said.

5 Years Ramona Okkema Alma Local Bertha Mae Stough Clare-Mt. Pleasant Local Barbara Wardin Frankenmuth Local Carla Wardin Mid-Michigan Local Joanmarie Weiss Frankenmuth Local

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Tips from a Registered Dietician: Answering Difficult Questions

IN BREIF

Free Family Learning Experience at Breakfast on the Farm Events Five Breakfast on the Farm (BOTF) events are scheduled for July and August. These events are open to people of all ages and provide a great family learning environment.

Application Deadline for the 2015 Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship is May 31, 2015 Since 2000, the Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund (MYLSF) has awarded more than $360,000 in scholarships and educational awards to outstanding youth who have exhibited at the premier livestock events in the state of Michigan.

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To be eligible for either the MYLSF general scholarship or the statewide scholarship, the applicant must be a resident of Michigan and a graduating high school senior or a high school graduate continuing their education at an accredited institution in the year in which they are applying. For the general MYLSF scholarship, the applicant must be a youth exhibitor at the Michigan Livestock Expo, the Michigan Dairy Expo or the former Michigan State Fair, for a minimum of three calendar years prior to the year of application. For the statewide scholarship, an applicant must be a youth exhibitor at a local, county or statewide exhibition for a minimum of three years prior to the year of application.

Specific proceeds from the Michigan Livestock Expo Sale-Abration auction as well as charitable donations help fund the scholarships. In 2014 approximately $15,000 was deposited in the Michigan Education Saving Plans for youth exhibitors that compete in judging and showmanship events at the Michigan Livestock Expo on the Michigan State University campus. Applications and qualification requirements for the MYLSF and the statewide scholarship can be obtained at www.michigan.gov/mda-mylsf. Applications must be postmarked no later than May 31, 2015.

Michigan State University Extension started BOTF in 2009 to help educate consumers about modern farming practices, reaching more than 61,000 children and adults to date. Visitors will be able to meet the families behind the food that’s on their dinner table each night and learn about agriculture from experienced and knowledgeable agricultural producers. The day includes a free breakfast featuring Michigan-grown food products and a selfguided tour of the farm, with volunteers from the local community available to answer questions.

Upcoming Breakfast on the Farm dates and farm hosts are: July 11

Mason County – Stakenas Farms Freesoil, Michigan

July 25

Sanilac County – Roto-Z Dairy Farm Snover, Michigan

Aug. 8

Van Buren County – Hood Farms Family Dairy Paw Paw, Michigan

Aug. 15

Gratiot County – Wheeler Dairy Breckenridge, Michigan

Aug. 29

Hillsdale County – Pleasant View Dairy Jonesville, Michigan

All of the events will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the breakfast ending at noon. Although this is a free event, tickets are required for the breakfast. Ticket pick-up locations will be announced approximately one month before each event. To find out more about a Breakfast on the Farm event in your area, visit breakfastonthefarm.com.

Mark Adam Named NorthStar Cooperative, Inc. General Manager The NorthStar Cooperative board of directors selected Mark Adam for NorthStar’s next executive vice president and general manager effective March 31, 2015.

Beef Checkoff Announces Updated Veal Quality Assurance Manual The Beef Checkoff recently released an updated Veal Quality Assurance (VQA) program which can be found on the recently updated www.VealFarm.com. The VQA program brings consistency and uniformity to on-farm care to result in a safe, wholesome, quality veal product. By being VQA-certified, veal farmers are helping to build trust and confidence in that product and demonstrating a commitment to quality to consumers.

The announcement was made last fall by NorthStar board President Paul Trierweiler after past Executive Vice President and General Manager Gary Smith announced his intention to retire from the cooperative. In this role since 2003, Smith’s leadership has been instrumental in growing the cooperative. During the last 11 years revenues have grown from $13.5 million to over $25.5 million, enabling the cooperative to return more than $5.1 million in patronage to member-stockowners during that same time.

“Gary has poured his heart and soul into our organization and his passion for NorthStar is evident in the success we have experienced during his leadership,” Trierweiler said. “At the same time, on behalf of the board, we are truly excited about our future with Mark Adam as general

“All livestock producers have an ethical obligation to

manager. We know he has the leadership and staff to

provide for the health and well-being of animals in their

build on our existing strengths and continue the positive

care,” Lauer adds. “The VQA program allows veal farmers

course NorthStar has been on to ensure our future growth

to certify their commitment to that ethical obligation by

and sustainability.”

pledging to adopt a series of quality production practices, Patient Relationship (VCPR).”

Involvement in the VQA program begins with your veterinarian. Program materials can be accessed on www.VealFarm.com.

Adam is no stranger to NorthStar or the dairy industry, with lifelong experiences in the A.I. and DHI industries. Adam joined the NorthStar team in 2000 as the director of DHI Services, where he was responsible for managing a field staff of 75 as well as two milk analysis laboratories. In 2009, Adam was appointed to the newly created position director of integrated services, where his focus has been on developing field service teams from cross-company business units to further enhance NorthStar’s service to producers. Messenger | May 2015

complete training and confirm a Veterinarian-Client-

MERCHANDISE

Master Fly Control this Spring After a very long wait, spring seems to have finally arrived. Temperatures are on the rise, and as the temperatures increase, so do the flies. Fly population control is very important on dairy operations during the warm months of the year. Minimizing disease transmission to livestock and humans and preventing product contamination are extra challenges during fly season. MMPA Merchandise stocks two products members can purchase to use as tools in their fly management program: QuikStrike and Prozap LD-44Z.

QuikStrike QuikStrike strips are a ready to use, self-contained product designed to be placed in fly foraging areas. The active ingredient, Nithiazine, kills flies seconds after they feed on Quikstrike. The flies are attracted to the sugar base matrix and a strong fly pheromone attractant. QuikStrike is effective only after flies ingest the active ingredient Nithiazine. Therefore, it needs to be placed in areas where flies actively feed. The best placement is 2-4 ft. above ground level in an area protected from children, animals, direct sunlight, wind and rain. QuikStrike strips are effective for six to eight weeks and are helpful in controlling flies in calf raising areas, milking barns and feed storages. QuikStrike is available in a box containing two strips per package. Stock#: 5503

Member price: $18.75/pkg.

Prozap LD-44Z MMPA Merchandise stocks Prozap LD-44Z farm insect fogger. The active ingredients in Prozap LD-44Z, Pyrethrins and Piperonyl Butoxide, repel and kill a host of insects. Prozap LD-44Z contains no CFC’s and may be used in milk rooms and livestock housing areas, if used according to label directions. Prozap LD-44Z is available in a 20-oz. aerosol can. Stock #: 5501

Member price: $11.18/can.

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

Messenger | May 2015

Valero Meal

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!

Order Your MMPA Merchandise through your milk hauler or call: Duane Farmer Supervisor 989-317-8370 Toll Free: 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi): 800-572-5824 then dial 2 Fax: 989-317-8372

PREMIUMS

Somatic Cell Count premiums and deductions (in addition to Federal Order SCC Adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels: 50,000 or below.................................+55¢/cwt. 51,000-75,000.....................................+50¢/cwt. 76,000-100,000...................................+45¢/cwt. 101,000-125,000................................+40¢/cwt. 126,000-150,000................................+35¢/cwt. 151,000-175,000................................+30¢/cwt. 176,000-200,000................................+25¢/cwt. 201,000-225,000................................+20¢/cwt. 226,000-250,000................................+15¢/cwt. 251,000-300,000................................+00¢/cwt. 301,000-400,000................................- 30¢/cwt. 401,000-500,000..............................-$1.00/cwt. 501,000-600,000..............................-$1.50/cwt. 601,000 and greater.......................-$2.00/cwt. A payment of 5¢/cwt. will be added for each of the following, if the count is equal to or below: • 10,000 Raw Bacteria Count • 20,000 Pre-Incubated (PI) Count

There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for: • Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count A high raw count deduction will be waived if the producer has received the quality premium the previous three months for raw bacteria count. To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month: • Positive drug residue • Abnormal freeze points • High load count shipment or rejected load shipment • #3 or #4 sediment • Raw Bacteria count over 100,000 The count levels for raw and PI will be determined on one test run per month. To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month 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

MMPA Member Testing Fees Payment for testing will be made through an automatic milk check deduction. All costs are listed per individual sample. Cow Tests: $1 Cow samples may be tested for: Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae, Strep non ag, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative staph, gram negative and/or SCC. Additional testing can be coordinated through your MMPA member representative to include: Raw bacteria count and components. All herd tests must be scheduled with the laboratory through your MMPA member representative.

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

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 Stan Palmer 5303 E. Swan Drive #3 Port Clinton, OH 43452 419-797-2101 Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636 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 Jeff Timm NW 8665 C.R. M Shawano, WI 54166 612-840-0555

Messenger | May 2015

MMPA Quality Premium Program

FREELINERS

To place your 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. Service age Reg. Holstein bulls: Deep pedigrees, some red carriers. Jenesis Genetics, 231-924-6163 or 231-225-8615. Reg. 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. Service Age Bulls: AI sired Red & White and Black & White Holstein bulls out of high butterfat and protein dams. Also Jersey and Holstein x bred bulls. Jerry Good 616-262-6904.

Equipment 2 Diesel Daewoo irrigation engines with 700 gpm caprari pumps. Aprox. 700 hrs on each. Switched to electric. Excellent condition. $11,000 each. 2 Kubota diesel generators 480v 3 phase 25kw. Used to run pivots. Excellent shape. $5,000 each. John Deere diesel 40kw 3 phase standby generator. 208 240 and 480v. 300 hrs. $8,000. 2 Steiner belt feeders 80ft and 100ft. $1,000 each. 2 patz single chain conveyors. 20ft and 30ft. $1,000 and $200. Silo distributor $200. 989-613-0694.

Messenger | May 2015

Patz 575 feed mixer, nice machine, 25 new knives, $8,000 OBO. Call 260-768-8137 *Would consider trading w/round baler.

Case Magnum 270 duals front and rear, $53,700. 231-388-0339. Claas 820, 4 WD, 3900 hours, 13-ft. hay head, $67,300. 231-388-0339. Vermeer 505L round baler, auto tie system, field ready, $4,750. 989-233-5137.

Used Jamesway silo unloader parts. International #56 four row wide corn planter. Delaval pulsators and electronic brain. Antique combination cook stove. Call 269-792-6630 ask for Jim or leave a message. 7.5 HP Tuthill Oilless vacuum pump Mod. # 003-22R2 with filter and vacuum regulator $2,500. Zero 600 gal. bulk tank w/5 HP Copeland compressor, washer and extra parts $1,500. 1100 gal Delaval bulk tank w/5HP Copeland compressor w/washer $700. Delaval Milking system – 7 Deltron 200 SC pulsators, large flow claws, Receiver jar and pump, 240’ of 2” milk line, 240’ of 2.5 vacuum line, 22 Dual stall cocks $5,850. Will sell as package or separate. Call Myles at 810-357-8804 or Carl at 810-304-0413.

Schultz corn cultivator, 7 row, 3 pt. hitch. 616-291-4092.

Dairy Equipment 2005 Boumatic Vision double six milking parlor, automatic detachers, low line, 600 gal. bulk tank. Call for more information 989-551-1429.

Dairy Farm 367.11 acre farm in Cheboygan, Mich. At present it’s a dairy farm, but it can be a place to raise heifers, or beef, etc. 400 free-stall barn, + pother bldg. Think outside the box, how much are you paying per month to have someone raise your short bred heifers, we’re doing 100 right now for $2 a day, do the math, for what it cost you a month to farm them out, you could have a heifer farm of your own at what you’re paying per month for someone else to raise them. 130 acres of alfalfa will be planted this year, 200 ac. of wheat all in for 2015. You can pretty much raise anything up here that you can down state. We rent another 600 acres with highest rent $40 ac. Price is $990,000, and we are ready to make a deal. Call 517-202-9421 or 231-625-2036 to talk and have info and pictures sent.

Misc. 1st cutting haylage. 989-640-3370. Calf free stalls. 989-640-3370.

Freeliner Policy The Freeliners column is open to current MMPA members who wish to advertise—at no charge—goods or services relating directly to their dairy farm operations. • An item submitted will be published for no more than two consecutive months (one month, unless otherwise requested). After that, it will be withdrawn. • It will be published again for no more than two consecutive months only if the member resubmits the item by writing or calling the Novi office. • Reference to a name of a firm or other commercial enterprise with which a member is involved will be deleted, with permission of the member. • If the member does not wish such deletion, he/she may choose to have the item published as a Classified Ad at the regular per-line Classified Ad rate. • Freeliners must be received by the 10th of the month preceding the desired month of publication. Example: To be included in the June issue, the freeliner must be at the MMPA office by May 10.

Wanted Registered Holsteins. Call Brent at 989-551-0681. Small herd of dairy cows. Phone 517-930-6552.

www.mimilk.com

CLASSIFIEDS

Classified Ads ($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 fix your scabbled floors. Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking of concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving Inc., Portland. 517-647-7381. DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: NO water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better traction. We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. Three operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. 1987. Call 800-365-3361. CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-STATE SCABBLING, home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices. 800-554-2288. www.tristatescabbling.com A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/ texturing brings existing grooves back to 100% efficiency and provides high quality traction in new & old concrete, fast service. BLUE RIBBON HOOF TRIMMING, LLC. 989-635-1494. FOR SALE: 5000-4000-3000-25002000-1500 OH MUELLER LATE MODEL BULK TANK MILK TANKS, complete, will trade. 800-558-0112.

WANTED TO BUY: USED BULK MILK TANKS, 200 gallons & larger, Sunset & Mueller, 800-558-0112. MICHIGAN CERTIFIED OAT SEED, Spring Barley seed, Roundup Ready II, Liberty Link, and MCIA 2323 soybean seeds. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414. DRY HAY & STRAW (large & small square bales) and barley for food. 989723-1886 or 989-277-1414. JUNE CLOVER SEED. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414. ALFALFA HAYLAGE (excellent & fair grades) & corn silage. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

FOR SALE: 2 Rubber Round-up tire scrapers, 1 Quick tach $700, 1 Bucket style $500. 3 brush spring style back scratchers $100 each. 1 Man-u-MIT Manure tank 3300 gal w/injectors clean nice stored inside $4000. 1 Houle 10ft 3pt 6in twin nozzle manure pump stored inside excellent cond. $6,000. 2 electric warming plates 2ft x 4ft $30 each. Double 8 Herringbone parlor w/ air indexing rail & gates. 12 Surge Westfalia take off 2 years old. 12 Boumatic Flowstar milkers and pulsator. Boumatic plate cooler 3in low line. Dairy Chemical auto dispenser. Complete set up. 1 12in 3pt post hole digger used very little $600. Call 989-551-9715.

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

FARMERS: ARE YOU LOOKING TO INCREASE YIELDS & QUALITY OF YOUR FORAGES? You can now learn from the experts. Find out what it takes to hit the 300 bu. per acre mark on corn. For free info call 888-2660014 *8475 BARN WHITE WASHING AND CLEANING WITH HIGH PRESSURE AIR: Serving all Michigan and Indiana. Miller Spray Service, Inc. 574-8259776.

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS Messenger | May 2015

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

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

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 non-marketability of a load of milk or milk products containing drug residue, then the member responsible will be provided an invoice for the entire value of the loss plus transportation and disposal costs as required by the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. This invoice may be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made. Milk from that member’s farm tank must be tested and found clear of drugs before the next tank of milk can be picked up. A hauler whose entire load sample shows the presence of drugs will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all show negative.

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

MMPA Milk Quality Policy 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.

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.

Messenger | May 2015

QUALITY QUESTIONABLE

MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary for Milk Marketed in March 2015 Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

National Trends

% Change

2014 % Change

California

3,700

3,811

Wisconsin

2,435 2,350 +3.6

Production

This Month

Year Ago

Total Class 1 Sales

528,668,966

528,832,470

-0.03

Total Class 2 Sales

337,262,774

199,728,901

+68.86

Total Class 3 Sales

409,023,670

492,888,523

-17.01

Total Class 4 Sales

284,698,293

226,703,398

+25.58

New York

1,172

1,559,653,703

1,448,153,292

+7.70

Idaho

1,172 1,157 +1.3

33.9%

36.5%%

Class 1 Utilization

1,159

-2.9

+1.1

Pennsylvania 941 929 +1.3 Texas

889 894 -0.6

Michigan

852 796 +7.0

Avg. Daily Production per farm........................................................8,864

Minnesota

814 780 +4.4

Avg. Protein Test.................................................................................. 3.14%

New Mexico

686

Washington

568 562 +1.1

Ohio

468 460 +1.7

Indiana

343 330 +3.9

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers.....................................................................................5,676

Avg. Butterfat Test.............................................................................. 3.81% Avg. Oth Solids Test........................................................................... 5.73% Avg. SCC - MMPA.............................................................................174,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb................................................................................$2.4875 Butterfat Price /lb.............................................................................$1.8444 Other Solids Price /lb......................................................................$0.2918 Class III Price @ 3.5%......................................................................... $15.56 Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt...................................................($0.23) Uniform Price @ 3.5%....................................................................... $15.33 SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000...................................................... $0.00079

Messenger | May 2015

2015

Total Production

(million pounds)

AMS Survey Prices Product

Monthly Avg

Cheese /lb............................................................................................ 1.5750 Butter /lb.............................................................................................. 1.6945 Nonfat Dry Milk /lb........................................................................... 1.0217 Dry Whey /lb........................................................................................ 0.4824

714

-3.9

* Total U.S.

16,877

16,690

+1.1

* U.S Y-T-D

48,560

47,768

+1.7

* For 23 States

MMPA STAFF

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

General Manager Joe Diglio............................................................................... ext. 200

Deb Navarre, Leroy......................................................248-520-3580

Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys...................................................................... ext. 240

Northeast Area

Member Services Dean Letter............................................................... 989-289-9251

Christy Dinsmoore, Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist, Fairgrove...248-513-7920

Milk Sales/Dispatch Carl Rasch.............................................................................. ext. 244

Lindsay Green, Energy Auditor, East Lansing... 989-488-8159

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

Ashley Herriman, Alpena..........................................269-245-6632 Angie Kirsch, Harbor Beach ................................... 231-414-4539 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard.................................................................N/A

Manufactured Product Sales Jim Dodson........................................................................... ext. 229

Drew Rupprecht, Clio................................................ 269-986-6793

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

South Area

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

Ed Zuchnik, Supervisor & Energy Auditor, Three Rivers................................269-967-7351 Krista Beeker, Topeka, IN ........................................ 269-986-6792 Dave Brady, Grass Lake.....517-522-5965 or (c) 517-937-9061 Elyse Martin, Charlotte...............................................810-701-6460 Joe Packard, Kalamazoo............................................248-520-3481 Emily Smith, Bronson..................................................269-535-0822

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

Human Resources Cindy Tilden.......................................................................... ext. 220 Member Relations/Public Affairs Sheila Burkhardt................................................................. ext. 208 Data Processing Gregory Schulkey............................................................... ext. 237 Member Communications Alex Schnabelrauch........................................................... ext. 211

Manufacturing Plants Constantine Dave Davis, Plant Manager................................. 269-435-2835 Ovid Colt Johnson, Plant Manager............................ 989-834-2221

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

Merchandise - Mt. Pleasant Duane Farmer, Supervisor Main Line................................................................................989-317-8370 Toll Free...................................................................................877-367-6455 Orders (Novi).................................................800-572-5824, then dial 2 Fax..............................................................................................989-317-8372

*If you are unable to

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

Messenger | May 2015

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