Spring 2024 Link

• 2023 Heart of the Herd Winner

• District Tour Time!

• Youth Feature: Tyler Canning

• Ontario’s 2023 Master Breeders

2024 NATIONAL HOLSTEIN CONVENTION CONGRÈS NATIONAL HOLSTEIN 2024

April 23–27 AVRIL 2024 | Hamilton, Ontario

Join us in Hamilton for the 2024 National Convention! Rejoignez-nous à Hamilton pour le congrès national de 2024!

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CALENDRIER DES ÉVÈNEMENTS

APRIL 23 AVRIL

Forage & Grain competition

Ancaster Fairgrounds–Agricultural Events Centre (AEC)

Compétition de grains et fourrages (AEC), terrain d’exposition Ancaster

Ontario Spring Discovery Sale

Ancaster Fairgrounds

Vente Ontario Spring Discovery

Terrain d’exposition Ancaster

OSD Youth Showmanship & Wine & Cheese Reception

Ancaster Fairgrounds (AEC)

Concours de présentation jeunesse OSD, vins et fromages

AEC, terrain d’exposition Ancaster

APRIL 24 AVRIL

Ontario Spring Discovery Show (Heifers)

Ancaster Fairgrounds

Exposition Ontario Spring Discovery (Génisses)

Terrain d’exposition Ancaster

Dairy Bar Reception presented by OSDS Committee

Ancaster Fairgrounds (AEC)

Réception au bar laitier, présentée par le Comité OSDS

AEC, terrain d’exposition Ancaster

APRIL 25 AVRIL

Ontario Spring Discovery Show(Cows)

Ancaster Fairgrounds

Exposition Ontario Spring Discovery (Vaches)

Terrain d’exposition Ancaster

EastGen Toss & Taste: The Ultimate Cornhole BBQ Bash

Ancaster Fairgrounds-Marritt Hall

BBQ « Toss & Taste » EastGen Terrain d’exposition Ancaster, Marritt Hall Tenue décontractée)

APRIL 26 AVRIL

Farm Tours presented by STgenetics

Visite de fermes présenté par STgenetics

Tour/Circuit 1– Captain: Darcroft, Valiant, Walnutlawn

Tour/Circuit 2–Johnboy: Doanlea, Karnview, Karnvilla

Tour/Circuit 3– Rangefinder Bosdale, Browndale, Summitholm

Young Leader Tour

Circuit des Jeunes leaders

Summitholm Holsteins, Walnutlawn, Malt & Barley, Bosdale, Tiffany Falls (chutes

Tiffany)

Alternative Tour Visites alternatives

Tiffany Waterfalls (chutes Tiffany), Sherman Falls (chutes Sherman), Brantview Apples & Howell Cider, Abigail’s Tea House, Bowpark Farms

Canvas & Cocktails Soirée

Art Gallery of Hamilton Galerie d’art de Hamilton

APRIL 27 AVRIL

Holstein Canada AGM

Sheraton Hotel Hamilton

AGA de Holstein Canada

Hôtel Sheraton (Hamilton)

Master Breeder Gala Presented by Semex

Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

Gala des Maîtres-éleveurs présenté par Semex

Musée du patrimoine canadien de l’avion de guerre

GENERAL MANAGER

Pam Charlton pamcharlton@ontario.holstein.ca (519) 861-9851

EDITOR Olivia Dunn communications@ontario.holstein.ca (519) 865-5207

OFFICE COORDINATOR, Martina Arth branch@ontario.holstein.ca (519) 653-6180

BRANCH & EVENT SUPPORT ADMIN, Shelley Barfoot-O’Neill admin@ontario.holstein.ca (705) 333-9690

2023/2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT, KYLE MACLEOD kyle_macleod@hotmail.ca 519-320-0729

PAST-PRESIDENT, COLE VERBURG way2succinct@yahoo.com 613-802-3604

VICE-PRESIDENT, ALAN HAWTHORNE bobmur.farms@gmail.com 519-291-5824

NATIONAL DIRECTOR, BRIAN SLAUGHTER bslaughter@holstein.ca 519-330-6062

ADDITIONAL BOARD MEMBERS

MONICA KAGI 63redlodge@gmail.com 613-577-1658

JEFF KRUL krulej@msn.com 519-848-2227

ROBERT KOLB mountkolbfarminc@hotmail.com 416-523-7937

MAGAZINE DESIGN

Jess Willison

AD DESIGN

Jess Willison

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Bonnie Cooper

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bonnie Cooper, Claire Swale Pam Charlton, Patty Jones, Vicki Fletcher

All Canadian 4H Spring Calf

I was 19 years old when I was elected to our local Holstein Club. In those first few years of being a director, I found that the focus was mostly about having fun. We would go to some meetings, we would plan some events, and we met new people along the way; nothing too stressful. It’s only as I’ve gotten older that I have truly realized the importance of what we were doing then, and what, as the Holstein Branch, we are doing now.

These aren’t just meetings we are attending; they are the place where ideas are shared, where concerns are brought forth, where building your community is the number one priority. These aren’t just events we are planning; they are gathering places for people to talk, network, connect and share their stories. These aren’t just new people we get to meet; they are future friends, mentors and allies who become a part of your life.

It’s easy from the outside to look at a club or branch, and ask “What do you guys do?”, but I have found that it is only when you engage with the organization and attend the events, that you see the true impact of these organizations and what they mean to their communities.

Sure, there is a more instant reward and quicker gratification when you engage with your club. You can plan an event and get to see your family and friends enjoying it. But connecting and engaging with the Holstein Branch allows you to help make an impact, not just today, but for the future of this industry.

Throughout my years of being a director on both my local club and the Holstein Branch, I’ve been very fortunate to sit with some other great directors and watch some tremendous individuals take on the president’s role. I’ve learned something along the way from each and every one of them, and I plan to take the lessons I’ve learned and lead the board in a way that demonstrates that board membership is meaningful, and that Holstein Ontario is for every producer from East to West.

As President, I want to encourage us all to lean into this challenge that is summarized by one of my favourite quotes, “be curious, not judgmental”. I think this is a mindset that can help us all to grow as individuals but also bring us together as a community. This industry is an amazing thing to be a part of, but it’s not without divides. Be it, ‘Show vs Commercial’, ‘Genomic vs Proven’, ‘Tie-stall vs Free-stall’, the list can go on and on. I hope we can lessen those divides and move towards being a more united industry. My challenge for you is to ASK MORE QUESTIONS!!! Everyone that you will ever meet knows something you don’t, but we always seem scared to ask and find out what that might be. I’m all for small talk, but the true connection with one another is in the next good question after that. In the meaningful conversation you can find understanding of why someone is the way they are or does things the way they do. It brings you closer to them and you also grow in that moment. It doesn’t have to be as serious as “What’s the meaning of life?” (save that for your next conversation) but could be as simple as adding the questions “Why?” to something they have just told you.

I think if any good came out of the pandemic, it was how much we need one another to travel through life together; we aren’t meant to do it alone. So again, I encourage us all to be curious, ask questions and with each conversation try to get to know someone better than you did before. I think we will be amazed at the growth we will witness. We are more alike than we are different.

Get better insights into your dairy operation with the NEW SenseHub® Dairy 7 monitoring ecosystem. Gain the freedom and confidence to make informed decisions with data and insights collected from individual animals on reproduction, health and milk quality monitoring. With SenseHub® Dairy 7, farmers can now incorporate a variety of exciting new features in their application plan.

VISION

Passionate Farmers. Prosperous Breed. Progressive Industry.

MISSION

Providing outstanding service & exceptional opportunities to our members to ensure longevity and excellence in the Holstein Community.

CORE VALUES

Passion. Integrity. Teamwork.

CORE PILLARS

Youth Activities. Education. Breed Promotion. Industry Advocates.

Ontario Dairy Youth Trust Fund

The is a registered charity with the goal of helping to develop youth in the dairy industry to ensure Ontario’s strong future in agriculture. The charity is funded solely by donations, from industry, associations and individuals. Today’s youth are the most important resource we have in the dairy industry, and we need to ensure they develop the skills necessary to maintain and strengthen the industry into the future. Trustees of ODYTF are a group of nine individuals who are committed to ensuring sound financial management and to providing opportunities for dairy youth.

1994

2024 30 YEARS OF HELPING, OVER $1 MILLION EXPENDED

keeping youLinked in

LINKED IN IS YOUR PAGE – IT WAS CREATED FOR YOU TO SHARE YOUR FARM UPDATES, FAMILY MILESTONES, FUNNY STORIES, UNIQUE PHOTOS AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN WITH THE OVER 4,000 ONTARIO BREEDERS WHO READ THE LINK! WRITE US TODAY... WE’LL MAKE SURE YOU STAY “LINKED IN!”

100 YEARS OF THE COLLEGE ROYAL

2024 marks 100 years of the College Royal!

Congratulation to Laura Phoenix who judged Dairy Showmanship at the 100th Anniversary of College Royal. Laura is pictured on the right (photo above) with Jessica Ferguson, Champion Inexperienced Showperson. Pictured below is the top seller from the College Royal Heifer sale, Allarway Realists Romano by RIVERDOWN UNSTOPABULL, with sales staff from the College Royal. PHOTOS SUBMITTED.

THANK YOU SECRETARIES!

A big shout out to Joe Krol of Stormont, who has been an integral part of his county club for 15 years. Thank you for all you do! PHOTO SUBMITTED.

ONTARIO COUNTY HOLSTEIN CLUB BANQUETCELEBRATING THE BEST!

The Ontario County Holstein Club hosted their Annual Banquet and Fun Auction held on Friday March 1st at the Scugog Community Center, where they auctioned off donated items, announced their Breeders Cup winners, and gave out their awards. Pictured above is one of the items made by Joanne Molenaar. PHOTO SUBMITTED.

<<INSPIRE & UPLIFT

March 23rd was a day to remember at the 4-H Ontario Volunteer Conference, where dedicated volunteers joined forces to inspire and uplift young voices. It was a day filled with brainstorming and creativity!. PHOTO SUBMITTED.

HOLSTEIN KNIGHT!!

Holstein Knight at Budweiser GardensHuron, Perth, Middlesex and Oxford Holstein Clubs came together to host fans at the London Knight’s game on March 8th. The Knights dominated the Sarnia Sting with an impressive of 6-1 victory. The atmosphere was electric as everyone cheered on the Knights and celebrated the Knights triumph. PHOTO SUBMITTED.

2023 ONTARIO

The Master Breeder Shield

is the most coveted award presented annually by Holstein Canada.

Since its beginning in 1929, the Master Breeder Award recognizes the breeding achievements of Holstein Canada members. Recipients are recognized for building herds with the complete package – high production and outstanding conformation with great reproduction, health and longevity.

This year, 20 breeders from across Canada were designated with the honour, with four of them coming from Ontario.

Congratulations to the 2023 honourees!

For full listing of winners across Canada, see page 14.

NANDALE Pakenham 20-24

RICHLAND Stirling 25-29

HANALEE Embro 60+

SUNNYLODGE

CHESTERVILLE

Carl, Muriel & Mark Smith

Sunnylodge

What is one thing that you would like people to know about your farm?

We all work and make decisions together and love the farming life!

Looking back, what has been the key to your success?

We have been fortunate to breed and own some great cows that have bred on for many generations!!

What is one thing you would like to change?

We would like to have more modern facilities to raise our calves and heifers in winter climate.

Who are your mentors? Who would you like to thank?

Personally my father was my mentor. I would like to thank many farming friends and partners over the years who have made it possible for us to do what we love with our cattle! We were very fortunate to have Dr. Roger Sauve as our reproduction/ET vet for many years. A big thanks to him!

PHOTOS 1. Sunnylodge Goldwyn Linda VG-89-2YR-USA was Nominated All-American Sr. 2 Yr. Old in 2015, 2. Sunnylodge Diamondback Kinsley - Nominated All-Canadian R&W Summer Yearling 2023, All-Canadian 4-H Summer Yearling 2023, Nominated All-Ontario R&W Yearling 2023, All-Ontario 4-H Summer Yearling 2023, 3. Aerial shot of Sunnylodge Farms, 4. The Smith Family, 5. Winright SL Sidekick Jade - All-Canadian & All-Ontario 4-H Winter Heifer 2023, Reserve All-Ontario Winter Heifer 2023 & Nominated All-Canadian Winter Heifer 2023, 6. Sunnylodge Sidekick Abby was Nominated All-Canadian & All-American Milking Yearling in 2023. PHOTO 1 BY CYBIL FISHER, PHOTOS 2, 5 AND 6 BY VICKI

Nandale

NANDALE

PAKENHAM | MILKING 70 COWS | FREE-STALL

Alan & Dana, John & Beth Nanne

What is one thing that you would like people to know about your farm?

What advice do you have for young producers hoping to one day achieve a Master Breeder?

Proper management and cow comfort are both key in achieving a Master Breeder. Breed from strong cow families and use top sires to improve your herd!

Who is the Heart of your Herd?

At the present time, Knonaudale Sunnylodge Jasmine EX 92 points, is the Heart of our Herd. She is outstanding in her own right and is proving to be a great brood cow to carry on the next generation.

Tell us about some of your most prolific/prominent cow families.

In the past, Sunnylodge Elevation Jan was one of our most prominent cows. She produced the Braedale Gypsy Grand VG-88 37* and Braedale Goldwyn bloodlines! Sunnylodge Prelude Spottie VG-87 18* was named Holstein Canada Cow of Year in 1998, and she’s the second dam of Sunnylodge Skychief Amy EX-95 2E 5*. Spottie’s son, Sunnylodge Linjet was Premier Sire at World Dairy Expo! Today we are breeding from the Knonaudale Jasmine EX-96 4E 14* family.

“Set your goals and stick to them“

We were switching about 15 cows in the tie-stall and renting another facility to house our dry cows because we had no room. By tweaking nutrition and management we were able to considerably increase production; however, the milk tank was overflowing and we did not have enough manure storage. We built the new barn in 2019 to allow for future growth. John and Beth have been very supportive of allowing Alan and Dana to play an active role in the operation and make decisions to continue moving the farm forward.

Looking back, what has been the key to your success?

Making sure every animal is able to reach their full potential. Focus on high quality forages, herd health and management to reduce culling allows cows to have more opportunity to make another lactation and get scored again.

What is one thing you would like to change?

Since moving to the free-stall, we have seen the importance of correct feet and legs and the value of having some set to the hock. Set of rear leg is one of the first things to consider when selecting bulls for us now. We would like to continue to improve longevity in the new barn, increase lifetime milk production and continue to increase amount of fat and protein produced per cow.

Who are your mentors? Who would you like to thank?

4-H leaders like Daryl Ziebarth and Deb & Merlin Knapton helped spark my passion for the dairy industry and breeding good cows.

Hugh Hunter of Maple-Ain Holsteins taught me how to properly judge cows.

Past work experiences at Cedarwal Farms and Webstone Holsteins were great learning opportunities about genetics and the value of good herd management.

What advice do you have for young producers hoping to one day achieve a Master Breeder?

You do not need to spend big money on fancy facilities or famous cow families. You can always do better with what you have. Identify a bottle neck in your herd’s health or production and choose one thing to improve every year. Things like increasing preg rate or improving transition cow health are great places to start. If you are not forced to cull cows, you allow those cows to make more points for you.

Who is the Heart of your Herd?

Nandale Goldwyn Squiggle EX-92 4E 3*, our first cow to ever score 92 points. Squiggle’s daughter, Nandale Doorman Google EX-93 3E (5yr. 272-371-304), is our first cow to ever score 93 points and was Grand at our County Show. Squiggle’s granddaughter, Nandale Dragonheart Itunes EX-91 (3yr. 312-357306), is our first ever third generation EX. Squiggle’s great-granddaughter is a promising young cow, Nandale Angler Jazz VG-88-3yr (3yr. 357-364-342).

Tell us about some of your most prolific/prominent cow families. There is no single cow family that has contributed considerably more points than any other family. We really strive to ensure that every animal reaches their full genetic potential, regardless of cow family or pedigree.

“Work diligently with a positive attitude, always willing to learn and looking to improve.“

FLETCHER; ALL OTHERS SUBMITTED.

6 5 4

PHOTOS 1. A great-granddaughter of Nandale’s Heart of the Herd, Nandale Goldwyn Squiggle EX-92 4E 3*, is a prominsing young cow - Nandale Angler Jazz VG-88-3YR, 2. The Nanne Family (L to R) - John, Beth (holding Henry), Alan (holding Claire) and Dana , 3. Nandale Doorman Google EX-93 3E, a daughter of Nandale Goldwyn Squiggle EX-92 4E 4. Nandale Rambo Gloria VG-88 pictured near the flowers at Nandale, 5. An aerial view of Nandale Farms, including their new barn, built in 2019, 6. The next generation at Nandale. PHOTO 1, 3 AND 4 BY PATTY JONES; ALL OTHERS SUBMITTED.

RICHLAND

STIRLING | MILKING 80 COWS | TIE-STALL

Gary & Linda, Jeff & Jessica Richardson

What is one thing that you would like people to know about your farm?

All of the cows on our farm are home bred.

Looking back, what has been the key to your success?

Having cows that have longevity has certainly been a key to our success. Breeding for cows that are going to be built for multiple lactations. Also, promoting exercise and cow comfort. We had a barn with comfortable stalls as well as having the cows outside for exercise daily.

What is one thing you would like to change?

Something that we would like to change and are changing is the labour requirements of the operation. Milking 80 cows in a tie-stall is labour intensive and we are in the process of converting to a robot facility.

Who are your mentors? Who would you like to thank?

It certainly takes a lot of people to make a dairy operation work, especially over the span of years that it takes to win a Master Breeder shield. I would like to thank anyone who has helped over that span. Our many milkers, veterinarian’s, breeding technicians, feed suppliers.

Who is the Heart of your Herd?

Our Heart of the Herd is Richland Outside 287. She was the provincial Heart of the Herd winner in 2020. A 91 point, 5E cow who produced over 140,000 litres of milk as well as having 3 heifers that went on to score EX as well.

Tell us about some of your most prolific/prominent cow families. Our most prominent cow family would be our “S” family that goes back to our Heart of the Herd cow. This family would have contributed the most points to our shield. Other families would be our “Z” family that goes back to an Excellent Lheros cow. Also, “R” family that goes back to an Excellent Samuelo cow.

What advice do you have for young producers hoping to one day achieve a master breeder?

In order to achieve a Master Breeder shield you are going to need to have cows that are functional, so that they last multiple lactations, as well as produce lots of milk. Therefore, you need to breed cows for this, as well as putting them in an environment in which they can succeed. A comfortable barn, and proper nutrition, is a requirement as well.

“Breed for type, feed for milk.“

Hanalee

HANALEE

EMBRO | MILKING 95 COWS | FREE-STALL

Hank, Nancy, and Marty Hazeleger

& All-American R&W Junior Yearling in 2013

3. Hanalee Day Charcoal VG-88 1* has produced more than 60,000 kgs milk lifetime and is still in the herd, 4. The Hazeleger family (L to R) - Nancy, Hank, Marty and Jackianne Hazeleger, 5. Hanalee Doorman Daisy Duke EX-90 2E 4* is the dam of 14 daughters, 8 of which are VG or EX. PHOTOS

What is one thing that you would like people to know about your farm?

We are a family operation concentrating on breeding and raising productive, profitable, comfortable cows. While we understand the importance of hard work, we also try to keep a good balance between work and family time.

Looking back, what has been the key to your success? Breeding for a good balance of conformation and production has been key. We generally use the corrective mating philosophy when breeding our cows. Using tools such as classification and milk recording and embryo transfer. We are never afraid to sell a good one and hope the new owner has success and also enjoy buying into a good cow family and developing our own branch of that family. Also being involved in the industry through 4H, shows, sales and Holstein meetings helps to keep us interested in the business. Getting out and talking to fellow breeders to get different ideas and perspectives has been beneficial.

What is one thing you would like to change?

Eventually we would like to build a new barn to replace the tie stall. Possibly go to a robot facility to take advantage of modern technology and address labour shortages.

Who are your mentors? Who would you like to thank?

Both of our fathers. Gerry Hazeleger of Hazeldom and Earl Start of Startmore both earned a Master Breeder shield themselves. Gerry has a great eye for cattle and was well known for having the ability to pick out a young heifer at a sale and either sell her for a profit, or have her turn out to be a VG or EX cow.

Earl had a tremendous passion for good cows and his attention to detail was second to none. He was also a master at making mating decisions that not only improved his herd but also influenced the breed as a whole.

I would like to thank my parents who let me take control of the breeding program (their prefix was Scottview) at a young age. They also gave me the opportunity to purchase cattle and eventually buy the farm.

Who is the Heart of your Herd?

Hanalee McCutchen Cherry Coke EX-93 3E 3*. She’s a tremendous milk cow and also a great brood cow with EX and VG daughters and granddaughters, some of which have shown at the Royal Winter Fair. The last 2 years she has qualified for entry in the Cow of the Year competititon

Tell us about some of your most prolific/prominent cow families. We purchased Willsona Bolton Chelsea VG 86 21* as a young calf. She was from the famous Glen Drummond Splendor family and with the help of embryo transfer her family members counted for more than a quarter of our total points. Also members of Hanalee Durham Jasmine VG 7* a descendant of Startmore Triple Threat Tina also contributed many points.

What advice do you have for young producers hoping to one day achieve a master breeder?

Get out to shows and barn meetings and talk to fellow successful breeders and find out what works for them. Study bull proofs and make informed breeding decisions that will result in profitable cows. Strike a good balance between production and conformation when making breeding decisions. Don’t be afraid to take a risk and branch out by introducing new genetics into your herd.

“Set achievable goals and work hard to try to surpass those goals.“

PHOTOS 1. The youngest generation at Richland - Fitz driving the tractor and Duncan catching a ride, 2. The Richardson family (L to R) - Duncan, Jeff, Archie, Jessica, Fitz, Linda and Gary Richardson, 3. Duncan helping out in the barn, 4. Comfortable cows in the Richland tie-stall barn, 5. Gary, Fitz, Jeff and Duncan Richardson, 6. Jeff and his helper Duncan finishing chores. PHOTOS SUBMITTED.

PHOTOS 1. The front entrance at Hanalee Holsteins, 2. Hanalee G Busty Babe VG-87 was All-Canadian

2, 3 AND 5 BY PATTY JONES; ALL OTHERS SUBMITTED.

The Master Breeder

Shield is the highest and most coveted award presented annually by Holstein Canada.

Congratulations to our out-of-province winners from 2023! They will be recognized, along with the Ontario winners, at Holstein Canada’s Master Breeder Gala in Ontario in April.

Ontario Master Breeders are highlighted on pages 10-13.

HONOURING OUR CANADA-WIDE 2023 Master Breeders

ALBERTA

Corlane ONTARIO

Hanalee

Nandale

Richland

Congratulations to Peggy Brekveld, this year’s winner of the Outstanding Dairy Woman’s Service Award!

Peggy Brekveld was announced as the winner of this year’s Outstanding Service Award for Dairy Women. The ceremony took place during Holstein Ontario’s Annual General Meeting in London, Ontario on February 28, 2024. Karen Velthuis, who is part of the organizing committee and a past winner from 2015, presented the award to Peggy.

Before announcing Peggy as the winner, Karen spoke on all of the incredible things Peggy has done to support the dairy industry.

OUTSTANDING DAIRY WOMAN SERVICE AWARD

Peggy Brekveld

Peggy’s dedication to the industry goes beyond her role at the OFA. She currently serves as the Chair at the Agricultural Adaption Council and is a board member of Canlead Solutions. Her involvement with the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council on labor issues, food security, and bill C234 showcases her commitment to advocating for the industry at a federal level.

In recognition of her exceptional leadership, Peggy was awarded the Influential Women in Canadian Agriculture in its inaugural year in 2020. Her passion for promoting women in the dairy industry is evident through her work at the OFA, where she actively advocates for women’s representation and leadership in the farming community.

Clovis

Sunnylodge QUEBEC

Colstein

Craig Despics

Ginel

Jolipre

Julio

Laraleve

Lucyves

Paricio

Pimabo

Rescator

Valrick

NEW BRUNSWICK Clarkes NOVA SCOTIA

Lindenoord

With an impressive record of involvement on many boards and committees, Peggy has been a driving force in advancing the dairy industry. Peggy served as the president of the OFA from 2020-2023, bringing various commodities together on common issues such as the environment, labor, and farmland preservation, all of which directly impact dairy farmers.

Locally, Peggy was involved with the Thunder Bay Pizza Project for many years and was a board member between 20052011 of the Thunder Bay Federation of Agriculture, including president between 2009-2011. Peggy and her family have been regular participants at their local Dairy Show, and she has been occasionally seen in the ring. Peggy and her family have also hosted farm tours for both students and politicians of various levels of government.

Outside of her involvement in the dairy industry, Peggy finds balance in her life by actively volunteering and being a member at her local church, enjoying singing, and taking walks. Peggy also encourages farmer wellness and encourages her peers to check in on one another and take care of their own health during challenging times.

Peggy’s tireless efforts and dedication make her a role model and an invaluable asset to the dairy industry. Her talent for bringing people together and promoting common goals is remarkable and inspiring.

Established in 2011, and sponsored by Holstein Ontario, the annual award recognizes the efforts and accomplishments of Ontario women who have devoted their lives to serving, promoting, and enhancing the dairy industry. The award is the brainchild of Tara Bullock, a dedicated dairy farmer and mother of three from Lakefield, ON. Today, the coordinating responsibilities are spearheaded by Deb Knapton, the 2019 recipient.

Past recipients of this distinguished award include Heather Parkin (2011); Elaine Standeaven (2012); Nancy Beerwort (2013); Sandy O’Hara (2014); Karen Velthuis (2015); Ruth Vogel (2016); Janet Ringelberg (2017); Barb Fraser (2018); Deb Knapton (2019), Bonnie den Haan (2020), Diane Jarrell-Ray & Jessie Weir (both in 2022); and Phyllis MacMaster (2023).

Holstein Ontario’s 42nd AGM

TThe Western District played host to this year’s AGM, organized by the Middlesex Holstein Club. The countless number of tour-goers visiting farms in the London area, as well as the large crowd that gathered to celebrate the 2023 Master Breeders at the EastGen Evening of Excellence, showed just how excited everyone was to attend this amazing event. The organizing committee were wonderful hosts and did a phenomenal job of extending Western hospitality to all in attendance!

TOURS On Tuesday, hundreds of visitors enjoyed stops at ten area farms, spread all across Middlesex County. Host farms included Finch, Cavanaleck, Echo Glen, Nuview, Elliotdale, Wonbrook, Thamesdale, Comrie, Stantons, and Bloomfield. Rainy weather aside, it was a wonderful day touring these great facilities! See the highlights on our Tour Page Gallery.

EASTGEN EVENING OF EXCELLENCE

The EastGen Evening of Excellence was on the program for Tuesday evening and included a banquet dinner, presentation of the Master Breeder Awards and the All-Ontario Awards and a live Fun Auction in support of the Ontario Dairy Youth Trust Fund. It was emceed by Russell Gammon and Holstein Ontario Vice-President, Kyle MacLeod.

MEETINGS

& BUSINESS

The Convention continued into Wednesday, when the Annual General Meeting was held. Over 40 members were in attendance to receive Branch updates and vote on resolutions. During the meeting, 2023 President Cole Verburg presented his report, as did General Manager, Pam Charlton. Company financials were presented by Kyle MacLeod, and a report from Holstein Canada was presented by National Director Brian Slaughter. The business portion of the meeting adjourned just before noon and was followed by a series of special presentations.

RESOLUTIONS & BY-LAW CHANGES

Two resolutions were put forth by Dundas Holstein Club and were carried. They were as follows:

RESOLUTION SUBMITTED BY DUNDAS HOLSTEIN CLUB

ALL-ONTARIO QUALIFIERS

Whereas, it is encouraged for exhibitors from all over Canada to support our National Holstein Convention Show regardless of where it is hosted year over year;

Whereas, we do not have a show associated with our Ontario Provincial Convention;

Whereas, The Royal Winter Fair Holstein Shows are National Shows and considered a qualifier for All Ontario Awards;

Whereas, there is opportunity to encourage participation in more shows and also in promoting the Holstein breed throughout Canada;

Therefore, be it resolved, that the National Holstein Convention Show be added as a qualifying show to the All-Ontario Awards Competition.

RED CLASSES

Whereas, the Red & White Holstein is gaining more interest in Canada & Ontario;

Whereas, most larger shows in Ontario are also awarding Red Champions;

Whereas, the National Red & White Show at the Royal Winter Fair has been on a steady increase in entries year over year;

Whereas, we have exhibitors who now bring a string of both black & red animals to our shows;

Whereas, another opportunity for people to promote & market their cattle is always a positive in this industry;

Therefore, be it resolved, that the All-Ontario Awards Competition add a full list of red classes, including Junior and Senior Breeders Herd, to the competition in 2024, making note to promote this in the very near future to allow exhibitors time to prepare their cattle and have professional pictures taken throughout the year.

The 2023 Provincial Heart of the Herd winner was announced, and Adam Hunt was on hand to present this award. Gerann Shottle Melody EX-93 10E 4* was the deserving winner, having made 140,941 kgs of milk over 12 lactations. This star brood cow is the recipient of many Longtime Production awards.

Vice-President Kyle MacLeod presented the 2023 Gay Lea Production Awards, which were awarded to NEWMORNING

LEGEND LESTER (producing 14,561 kgs as a 1-Year-Old); DND RUBAN LUST (producing 21,105 kgs as a 2-Year-Old); ALBADON DURST AMELIA (producing 18,085 kgs as a 3-YearOld); JOALFARMS ABBOTT FINESSE (producing 17,903 kgs as a 4-Year-Old); GOULDHAVEN AVALANCHE EVA (producing

4, 5, 6, 7, 9

10 BY CLAIRE SWALE;

SUBMITTED.

29,910 kgs as a 5-Year-Old) and DEBOER SUPERSHOT WILLOW (producing 19,202 kgs of milk as a Mature Cow).

One of the most highly anticipated awards presented each year is the Dairy Women’s Service Award. This year, the well deserving recipient was Peggy Brekveld of Thunder Bay. Karen Velthuis, the 2015 winner, presented the award and recipients from previous years were on hand to congratulate Peggy.

Thank you to the sponsors, committee members, tour hosts and volunteers who made this year’s AGM a success!

SUPREME SPONSOR

EastGen

PLATINUM SPONSOR

Dairy Lane System

Dairy Farmers of Ontario

Farm Credit Canada

Masterfeeds

ST Genetics Canada

Sun-North Systems Ltd

TD CanadaTrust

Van Woerden Group Inc.

GOLD SPONSOR

BMO

Kubota

Quality Seeds

SILVER SPONSOR

WestWind Entreprises

Grand Valley Fortifiers

Kirkton Vet

Norwell Dairy Systems

Parion Animal Nutrition

BRONZE SPONSOR

RBC

Libro Credit Union

Oxford Bovine Veterinary Services

Wallenstein Feed & Supply Ltd.

Dortmans Bros. Barn Equip. Inc.

Farmstead Tours & Travel - Wendy Weir

Huron Tractor

Kenpal Farm Products Inc.

Pro Rich Seeds

Schoonderwoerd Bros Concrete Ltd

PHOTOS 1. Adam Hunt and Cole Verburg with the Heart of the Herd certificate for Gerann Shottle Melody EX-93 10E 4*, 2. The Grandy Family of Granron Holsteins accepting an All-Ontario award from Curtis McNeil (right), representing EastGen 3. Holstein Ontario General Manager Pam Charlton presents President Cole Verburg with a thank you gift from the branch, 4. Alan and Dana Nanne of Nandale Holsteins being presented with their Master Breeder Shield Sign by Cole Verburg, 5. Norm McNaughton (left) presenting to James Doan and Stefan Mueller, 6. EastGen Evening of Excellence table setting, 7. Some of the stunning items that were auctioned in support of the Dairy Youth Trust Fund, 8. Loa-De-Mede Farms accepting their All-Ontario Award from Norm McNaughton (left, Quality Seeds) and Curtis McNeil (right, EastGen). The Werry family, from left; Heather, Paige, Cindy and Dennis Werry. 9. The display featuring the Ontario Dairy Youth Trust Fund, 10. Norm McNaughton (left) representing Quality Seeds, Brent Howe (middle) receiving his All-Ontario award and Curtis McNeil (right) representing EastGen. PHOTOS 2,

and

ALL OTHERS

WE WELCOME YOUR IDEAS!

DO YOU HAVE A FARM YOU WOULD LOVE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT, OR THAT YOU THINK WOULD BE PERFECT FOR A FEATURE IN THE LINK?

WE ARE ALWAYS ON THE LOOKOUT FOR NEW IDEAS! FARMS BIG OR SMALL, NEW OR OLD, ROBOT OR TIE-STALL - WE LOVE THEM ALL!

CALL OR TEXT THE EDITOR TODAY WITH YOUR IDEA: 519-865-5207.

6. Welcome to Nurseland, 7. A welcoming sign at Goreland, 8. Bay Breeze herd ready for guests, 9. Welcoming committee at Graham Farms. PHOTO 2 AND 5

2024 DISTRICT FARM TOURS PRINCE EDWARD EAST-CENTRAL | MARCH 13

HALDIMAND NORFOLK

WEST-CENTRAL | MARCH 15

WESTERN | FEBRUARY 27

MIDDLESEX

EASTERN | MARCH 23

LANARK

PHOTOS 1. A beautiful display at Willow Creek Genetics, 2. A photo-ready cow at Vandermolen Farms, 3. Welcome to Vandermolen Farms!, 4. Feeding time at Spring Knoll Dairy, 5. Happy cows at Markhoeve Farms, 6. Checking out the barn at Dykmavale Holsteins, 7. Markhoeve Dairy on display, 8. Congratulations to Peartome, celebrating 100 years, 9. A friendly face at Spring Knoll, 10. Saying hello at Willow Creek Genetics, 11. A delicious lunch at Zieview, A welcome sight for visitors to Tipper Holsteins, 13. Comfortable and curious cows at Symcroft, 14. Accomplishments at Symcroft, 15. A bustling crowd in for a tour of Zieview, 16. Milk pick up at Nandale!, A fine-looking display at Tipper Holsteins, 18. A light dusting of snow over Rockyrapids on tour day, An inviting entrance to Penlow Farms, 20. The pristine barn and wow-worthy cows at Nandale, Happy cows at Paulview. PHOTOS 1-8 BY OLIVIA DUNN; ALL OTHERS BY PAM CHARLTON.

PHOTOS 1. Nicole and Andrew Elliott, Elliot of Elliottdale Holsteins ready to welcome tour guests 2. Thank you Wonbrook! Caden and David Wonnacott of Wonbrook Holsteins, 3. View at Stanton Farms Ltd., 4. Jean, Dave, and Dana at Nuview Farms. Thank you Nuview!, 5. New addition at Bloomfield Farms, 6. The beautiful barn at Comrie Farms, 7. A look into the barns at Echo Glen, 8. Many achievements at Cavanaleck Farms Ltd., 9. Johnson Family at Thamesdale Holsteins, 10. Clean and comfy cows in the barn at Finch. PHOTOS BY 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10 BY OLIVIA DUNN; PHOTOS 3, 5, 8

PHOTOS 1. In the Barn at Echo Glen Farm, 2. The line up at Graham, 3. A back scratch at Goreland, 4. Koopycrest’s display of their Master Breeder Shield, 5. A welcome sight at Kuiperscrest,

Heart Herd OF THE

GERANN SHOTTLE EX-93-10E 4*

12 LACTATIONS AT 13 YRS OLD

140,941 KGS. MILK LIFETIME

LIFETIME BCA – 233-240-237

MS: 91; DS: 93; F&L: 95; RP: 94

A NEW MELODY

“She was 10 years old and fresh for the 9th time. Already over 90,000kg of milk lifetime, scored EX-93, she was the epitome of balance in dairy character and strength. This beautiful speckled cow sired by Shottle, had an amazing wide frame, wide and deep of her chest, well sprung and open of her rib, a perfect straight and strong loin which carried through her high chine and sharp shoulder. Under her extremely wide perfect rump was a snuggly attached high wide udder with great texture and shape. Just a superb mammary system! All this carried on the best feet and legs you could ask for of a cow of such advanced age. She got up from the stall and walked around like a 3 year old. She won her class in that Breeders Cup and I named her Grand Champion overall. Easiest decision had all day!”

- ADAM HUNT, LEEDS-GRENVILLE BREEDERS CUP JUDGE, 2020

“One of the most impressive individuals I’ve ever seen on a farm in all my travels. A true Heart of the Herd!“

2023 WINNERS BY DISTRICT & COUNTY

WEST WEST-CENTRAL

COUNTY ANIMAL & OWNER

BRUCE DORAL DENZEL GALEN EX-94-4E 4*

Doral Farms Inc.

ELGIN LIDDLEROCK TAILOR SATIN EX-91-7E

Liddlerock Holsteins

ESSEX-KENT RCAT DEMPSEY KELLY EX-91-5E

Ridgetown College Of Agricultural Tech

HURON BREEZY OUTSIDE 811V EX-90-6E

Haag Farms Inc.

LAMBTON HILLSETT DE MAPLE EX-91-4E

Hillsett Farms

MIDDLESEX STANTONS MOGUL ELOISE EX-91-3E 1*

Stanton Bros Limited

OXFORD LARENWOOD LAUTHORITY CRAZY 698 EX-92-6E 5*

Larenwood Farms

PERTH SQUIBBLAND RITA WINDBROOK EX-92-4E 4*

K. Dean & Debbie Squibb

Gerann Holsteins, owned by John and Dawn Wynands, is a family-run farm that milks 250 cows on 1,500 acres of farmland in Grenville County. They were awarded a Master Breeder Shield from Holstein Canada in 2018.

“In the spring of 2010 I picked out my 4-H calf for the show season. Little did I know that this heifer would be one of the most important anchors in my life. With a few years of showing experience I felt confident that I picked a good one. Boy, did ever. Over the next 14 years every time went into the barn I could find her in an instant. And was greeted with cow kisses in exchange for some fresh grass. I made sure she was introduced to anyone I gave a tour through the barn with, and made sure they got some cow cuddles. For myself, I was not born on the farm, but sure grew up on it. And this cow grew up with me. Teaching me patience, gratitude, and perseverance. She has received numerous awards, achieved impressive milk records, been the matriarch to a cow family dynasty, but the greatest gift that this cow has ever given is being my constant companion, the reason for my love of agriculture, and gracefully being my bovine best friend forever.”

- CYDNEY SMITH

- ADAM HUNT

COUNTY ANIMAL & OWNER

BRANT-WENTWORTH HYLLTOP SHOTTLE JOKE EX-91-5E

Vellenga Farms Ltd.

DUFFERIN KENTVILLE BRAXTON GIGGLES EX-91-5E

Kentville Holsteins

GREY MARFLOACRES WINDBROOK MERNA EX-92-6E 2*

Wayne and Karen Martin

HALDIMAND-NORFOLK KEYLAS WINDBROOK NOVA EX-94-6E 3*

Douglas Winger

HALTON-PEEL CHRISLAND GOLDWYN DESTINY 196 EX-92-7E

Chrisland Holsteins

NIAGARA ABBYLAYNE GOLDWYN NADINE EX-91-5E

Albert Fledderus

WATERLOO WAYBRU DUSK SWEETLY EX-93-7E 2*

Waybru Holsteins

WELLINGTON SILVERDREAM ATLANTIC TULIP EX-90-5E

Onias W. Martin

EAST-CENTRAL EAST

COUNTY ANIMAL & OWNER

DURHAM ELDERSLIE ATLAS MELINDA EX-90-6E 1*

Elderslie Farm Holsteins

HASTINGS BREEZE HILL MASCALESE MANDI EX-93-5E

Richland Holsteins

LENNOX-ADDINGTON PYNACKER JELCO SEAVER EX-90-6E

Pynacker Holsteins

NIPPISSING-SUDBURY BLUEBERRY STANLEYCUP DUCKY VG-85-2YR

Blueberry Holsteins

NORTHUMBERLAND ALMERSON GOLDWYN GLAMOUR EX-90-4E 3*

Almerson Farms Ltd.

ONTARIO MAPLEBROUGH FEVER ROXELLY EX-90-5E 1*

Maplebrough Holsteins

PETERBOROUGH RONBETH DAMION SANDRA EX-94-10E 1*

Ronbeth Holsteins

PRINCE EDWARD KUIPERSCREST DENISON TRIXY EX-90-4E 2*

Kuiperscrest Holsteins

SIMCOE HARVDALE LAUTHORITY PEANUT EX-95-5E

Harvdale Holsteins & Dr. Tim Henshaw

TIMISKAMING-COCHRANE LORNEVA SPIRIT PAM EX-90-4E

Freedom Farms Inc.

THUNDER BAY JOALFARMS BAXTER RIANNA EX-92-6E 3*

Allan & Lorne Vis

VICTORIA MILLEN LAVAMAN CAROLINE EX-90-6E 3*

Millen Farms

YORK DANDYLAND TALENT ROSANNA EX-93-8E

Dandyland Farm

THE HEART OF THE HERD COMPETITION CELEBRATES LONGEVITY AND STRENGTH IN THE BREED, AS WELL AS PRODUCTION. THIS COMPETITION RECOGNIZES THOSE ANIMALS THAT PRODUCE YEAR-AFTER-YEAR, BREEDING BACK WITH EASE, HITTING EXTREME LACTATION NUMBERS AND RACKING UP MULTIPLE EXCELLENT SCORES.

BREAKDOWN OF COMPETITION

All animals Bred & Owned by an Ontario Member are eligible, no entry required.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Animals meeting the below minimum requirements are assigned points as per the formula, with the top number of points awarded being declared the winner.

1. Must be classified 85 or higher.

2. Must have produced at least 70,000kg lifetime.

3. Must be alive in the year of competition (determined by lactations and/or calvings occurring in the year in question).

FORMULA:

• Classification: 5 points awarded for scoring 85, with 1 point added for every point above 85, and 1 point added for every ME.

• Longtime Production: 6 points awarded to a cow that has 70,000kg, one extra point awarded for every 10,000kg over 70,000kg.

• Lactations: awarded 1 point per lactation.

• Superior Lactations & Progeny: awarded 1 point per superior lactation and 1 point for every son/daughter that has scored VG/EX, to a combined cap of 10 points.

• All-Ontario: 1 point for every All-Ontario nomination in milking form.

Tie-Breaker: Most kgs. Lifetime Butterfat.

COUNTY ANIMAL & OWNER

CARLETON-RUSSELL GILLETTE WINDBROOK TRACY EX-90-3E

Ferme Gillette Inc.

DUNDAS MELNA SHOTTLE MONA LISA EX-91-9E 1*

Melna Holsteins

FRONTENAC SUNREST GOLDWYN QUANTUM EX-92-10E

Sunrest Farm

GLENGARRY LOCHDALE ZELGADIS STORMY EX-95-7E 3*

Lochdale Holsteins

LANARK KNAPVIEW JETSTREAM DAKOTA EX-92-7E

Knapview Farms

LEEDS-GRENVILLE LILLIESDALE SHOTLE LUCKY CREAM EX-91-3E 3*

Leo Baumann

PRESCOTT RAYD’ OEX SECURE MONALIE RED EX-92-7E 1*

Ferme Raynaud Ltee

RENFREW ROBDOT JORDAN LUNA EX-92-6E

Robdot Holsteins

STORMONT GLAUDALE LUNA SHOTTLE EX-91-4E

Glaudale Farms

Pictured with Melody is Cydney Smith, the neice of John and Dawn Wynands of Gerann Holsteins. Melody was Cydney’s 4-H project in 2010. PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY CYDNEY SMITH.

Building on Opportunities at TRINAL FARMS LTD.

STORY BY BONNIE COOPER

and Kedrick, gather around one of their herd’s best Red & White cows, Trinal Ammo Laurel EX-90 2E 2. In 2019, the Horsts constructed this new barn on their Teeswater, ON, farm where they now house and feed 450-500 pregnant dairy heifer recipients for Semex at any given time,

3. Trinal Love To Win, a Solomon daughter who traces to the 2015 “Cow of the Year”, Val-Bisson Goldwyn Maya VG-88 41*, was first prize Junior Yearling at the 2019 National Spring Showcase Holstein Show in Prince Edward Island, 4. The Holstein herd at Trinal Farms, which is milked 2X/day and housed in this tie-stall barn, presently includes 7 EX, 38 VG and 36 GP cows.

or the Horst family of Trinal Farms Ltd., a multi-family farm with multiple enterprises at Teeswater, ON, there is no greater life than on a farm. A family of deep faith, the Horsts are thankful for the many blessings and opportunities that have come their way that have permitted them to succeed.

MULTI-FACETED OPERATION

The origins of Trinal Holsteins and its prefix dates back to 1987. The farm started in Fordwich, ON, when Murray and Emma Horst bought Gerald and Doreen Kennedy’s Qualified Entry (QE) Gerdor Holstein herd and farm. The Horsts continued to build the herd to purebred status and started to classify and milk record. They had three VG cows on their first classification visit. Browndale Stardust and Second-Look Jolt were among the early bulls that worked well here, with Stardust siring their first EX cow in 1996. Murray and Emma had four sons and when the two oldest, Ken and Kervin, expressed an interest in farming, the family began looking to expand their land base and dairy operation. In 2009, they purchased and moved to their present location at Teeswater.

Today, Trinal Farms Ltd. is owned by Ken, 41, Kervin, 36, and their parents, who are still actively involved on the farm. Also playing a vital

part in this Bruce County operation are Ken and Kervin’s families. Ken and wife Nancy have four children, Steffaney, 12, Kedrick, 10, Coleson, 8, and Kavan, 6, while Kervin and wife Kendra also have four children, Kenzie, 10, Kelsey, 7, Kierra, 5, and Tanner, 1. As Ken says, “I think it is a great opportunity to raise a family on a farm. It is a great way to show your children the highlights and disappointments of life.”

The Horsts milk 80 Holstein cows in their tie-stall barn. The lineup currently includes seven EX, 38 VG and 36 GP cows, with the herd averaging around 12,000 kg for milk. Cows receive a TMR of corn silage, haylage, high moisture corn and supplement. The farm encompasses 200 acres of land, plus the Horsts rent an additional 450 acres. They grow primarily forages (hay and corn).

The Horsts are a busy family with several thriving farm enterprises. In addition to the Holstein herd, they custom raise dairy heifers and beef, have a custom farm service business, and a cow/calf beef operation. While there is some overlap, Ken primarily oversees all of the livestock, while Kervin looks after the field work and Trinal Custom Farming business where they mainly do forage chopping and some square hay baling for customers. “We also have four employees,” adds Ken, “which helps to make things flow easier throughout the year because we can utilize these people on both sides of our business.”

The Horsts started custom raising Holstein heifers back in 2009 while they still owned the farm at Fordwich. In 2012, they constructed a new 113 x 300 foot heifer barn at the Teeswater farm and moved all of this business here where they could house 400-450 dairy heifers, from 7 months of age up until a month before calving, for clients. In 2021, just about the time the Horsts lost one of their longstanding customers because he decided to build his own barn, they were asked if they would house some beef cattle for someone. “Now half of our custom heifer barn holds beef where we generally feed and fatten 350-400 beef animals at any one time,” says Ken. In 2019, the Horsts built a second big heifer barn after they were approached by Semex, the Guelph, ON, based A.I. company, to house all of the pregnant recipient heifers from their internal dairy breeding program, Progenesis. Trinal presently houses and feeds 450-500 dairy recipient heifers for Semex in this barn. “So in total, we probably custom feed and raise 600-650 dairy heifers at any given time,” says Ken.

The Horsts also have their own 75-head cow/calf beef herd where they take the beef right up to finishing. “We rent another barn for these cattle in the winter and then let them run on grassland during the summer,” explains Ken.

here,” says Ken. This relationship led to the introduction of a valued, new cow family at Trinal headed by Havenvalley Gibson Zwettie EX93-3E-USA 7*. A deep-pedigreed Gibson, Zwettie had three EX, 18 VG and seven GP daughters and left many descendants here. A multi-family farm with many enterprises can have a lot of challenges and benefits. “It depends on which one you choose to focus on as to how well it runs,” states Ken. “You can choose to look at the negatives, or you can choose to look at the benefits. There are some of both. Having people responsible for different sectors of our farm I think has helped a lot and makes things run smoother because no one can be everywhere and everyone has their own interests and strong points.”

THE TRINAL BREEDING PROGRAM

“Whenever you put effort into something, then you feel more rewarded when you reap the benefits from it.”

- KEN HORST

For 12 years, Trinal was home to some Holsteins owned by Kent Raim of Arrowhead Dairy, Cedaredge, Colorado, who used the Arrowhead prefix in the U.S. and AHD in Canada. Ken met Raim at a sale at Carson’s Sales Arena, Listowel, ON, in 2007. The connection, and subsequent friendship, led Raim to house cattle at Trinal and also own many animals in partnership with the Horsts. When Raim decided to step away from the dairy business in 2019 a dispersal was held, thus bringing the Raim/Horst affiliation to a close. “It was really good to get to know Kent and we appreciate the help that he was getting us going

“I enjoy working with good purebred cows. And I enjoy type. That has never changed,” Ken says.

“I always feel if you are going to go to the barn to milk cows you might as well milk good cows. But production is important too, because it’s what pays the bills.” When it comes to breeding, Ken says, “Udders is something I always focus on. And I like big, strong cows. I know the industry has shifted a bit from the big cows, and I can agree that they can get too big, but I am also concerned that we don’t hit the other ditch. I have seen enough of that.” Ken uses conventional semen in the majority of their breedings, along with a bit of beef and some sexed semen for their heifers. They used a fair bit of Sanchez and King Doc in the past, while more recently Ken has used Chief, Avenger, Salute, Thunder Struck and Cadillac, and on the Red side bulls like Unstopabull, Ammo-P, Warrior-Red and Alpha.

The Horsts’ favourite cow family right now descends from Oakfield Gold Topaz-ET EX-93-2E 4*, a Goldwyn backed by four EX dams who Ken bought as a 2-year-old from Austin Yoder of Georgia in 2013.

PHOTOS 1. Nancy and Ken Horst of Trinal Farms and their children, from left, Kavan, Steffaney, Coleson

PHOTOS 1 BY COWSMOPOLITAN; ALL OTHERS SUBMITTED.

“This family transmits nice udders and good production and there are a number of cows in the barn that stem back to her,” he comments. While Topaz was later acquired by Hodglynn Holsteins, Kincardine, ON, and Little Star Holsteins, Watford, ON, for whom she was AllOntario and Honourable Mention All-Canadian 5-Year-Old in 2015, she left two EX daughters at Trinal. The one by Windbrook, Trinal Wind Twinkle EX-91-4E 1*, made over 88,000 kg milk lifetime and had two VG daughters. The other by Struik, Schaapman-I Struik Tina EX-90-2E 2*, came in dam and is the mother of two EX daughters. One of these, Trinal Guthrie Tiffany EX-90-2E 3*, made over 80,000 kg milk lifetime and had three VG daughters. It is through Tiffany’s 4-year-old Ammo-P daughter, Trinal Ammo-P Typhoon VG-87, that the Red Carrier gene has now been introduced into this family. Typhoon has a March 2023 Red Unstopabull daughter that the Horsts sold in the 2023 Eastcoast Style Sale in PEI last year, plus three Red Warrior-Red heifers at Trinal.

“I do have a bit of a soft spot for Red & Whites,” admits Ken, “but they have to be good. I also like buying something that has a well-known cow in the pedigree.” An individual that fits that bill is Trinal Ammo Laurel EX-90-2E who traces to the famed Comestar Laurie Sheik VG88 23*. This 6-year-old, Red Ammo-P daughter is from a Red EX-91-4E 3* Magna P dam who Ken bought in 2015. Laurel has a Red daughter,

Trinal Unstopabull

Love EX-91, who sold to Hodglynn and Rocky Allen of Australia just a couple weeks before she was second Milking Yearling at Holstein Canada’s National Red & White Show in SaintHyacinthe, QC, in 2021. Love went on to be nominated for both AllCanadian and All-Ontario Red & White Junior Cow that year. “I am hoping to IVF Laurel and get some more Red daughters from her as this is a family that is transmitting quite well for us,” says Ken.

Another Red cow that the Horsts are working with is 6-year-old Haelzle Incredibull Crimson EX-90-2E, who was purchased in the 2020 Hells-Lea Farms Dispersal, Mildmay, ON. A 12th generation VG/EX, Crimson has four young Red daughters at Trinal by AtomicRed, Warrior-Red and Unstopabull.

The Horsts have bred, owned and partnered in a number of animals that have done well in the showring. “To me, the value in showing is the exposure it gives us,” says Ken. “I am always happy to see if we have an animal that can go out there and do well in the showring. One of the highlights for me every year is going to the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and seeing all the amazing cows in the showring and what sires are putting those cows and heifers there.” Marfloacres Sanchez Lady EX95-4E 1*, who Trinal owned with Hodglynn, was Honourable Mention All-Ontario Mature Cow in 2016 after being Grand Champion at the

Junior Cow in 2021 10. Trinal Unstopabull Love EX-91, an Unstopabull daughter from Trinal Ammo Laurel EX-90-2E, she was second Milking Yearling at the 2021 National Red & White Show and then nominated for All-Canadian and All-Ontario Red & White Junior Cow for new owners Hodglynn Holsteins, Kincardine, ON, and Rocky Allen of Australia, 11. Trinal Love to Win GP-84, a Solomon daughter who was Junior Champion at the Westerner Championship Show in 2019

Bruce-Grey County Clubs Show and sixth at the Royal. The Horsts have also been pleased to supply many 4-H calves to members of the Wiarton 4-H Dairy Club like Joseph Kaptyen who in 2019 showed a great-granddaughter of Zwettie, Trinal Undenied Lexis, to second place at the TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic and then clinched the All-Ontario 4-H Summer Yearling award.

VALUE IN BREED IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS

Trinal has marketed many cattle and embryos over the years. “While there are still some good sales here and there, by and large the dairy market has definitely slowed down in recent years and we have had a drought on the marketing side,” observes Ken. “While prices were a lot better last year, I think the high price of beef is what pushed that up.” He continues, “I have always enjoyed going to good dairy sales. Unfortunately, there haven’t been a lot of them like we used to have and I think that is one thing our dairy industry is missing. Online sales have their place, but there is something about going to a sale where you can meet and talk to people that you just can’t replace with an online sale.”

Despite the slow markets, Ken says, “I don’t let that discourage me from breeding good cows. My family and I still feel registration, classification and milk recording are important. We do it because it is of interest to

us. It validates what we have. We see value in it. Registration gives you a trail to follow an animal back on. Milk recording and classification are important for us, and the breed, so we know what direction we are going in. Are we improving or going backwards? You can have a great cow in the barn today but if she is never classified when you look back on a pedigree 10 years from now you won’t know what that cow was. If you have a good daughter of that cow and can look back and see that the dam, 2nd dam and 3rd dam were VG/EX cows there is value in that.”

The Horsts have made great strides at Trinal. Positive and committed to the purebred Holstein and dairy business, Ken says, “We are always trying to improve areas where we can. We are still growing our milk quota holdings. And we are always open to opportunities.”

As Ken Horst says humbly in closing, “My family and I are thankful for the opportunities that have come our way. We give God the glory for that. We have been blessed in many ways in our family and in our business. It takes effort and good things don’t just happen. But I think whenever you put effort into something then you feel more rewarded when you reap the benefits from it.”

PHOTOS 5. The immaculate barns at Trinal Farms 6. In addition to their other farm enterprises, the Horst family has their own 75-head cow/calf beef herd where they take animals right up to finishing 7. An overhead look of Trinal Farms Ltd., Teeswater, ON 8. Welcome sign at Trinal Holsteins 9. Trinal Ammo Laurel EX-90 2E, an Ammo-P daughter who traces back to Comestar Laurie Sheik VG-88 23* and has records to 18,396 kg milk in her last lactation, she is the dam of Trinal Unstopabull Love EX-91 who was nominated for both All-Canadian and All-Ontario Red & White

PHOTO 8 BY BONNIE COOPER, PHOTO 9 BY PATTY HONES; ALL OTHERS SUBMITTED.

MAY 25, 2024

10:00am - 3:00 pm

Karnview Farms

Woodstock, ON

JULY 12, 2024

11:00am - 4:00 pm

Winright Holsteins

Winchester, ON

The Judging Schools are open to youth, aspiring judges, and judges of all levels across Ontario.

2024 Junior Shows

Eastern Junior Show

July 3 & 4 – Spencerville Fairgrounds

East-Central Junior Show

July 3 & 4 – Orono Fairgrounds

West-Central Junior Show

August 22 & 23 – Grand River Raceway, Elora

Western Junior Show

July 11 & 12 – Woodstock Fairgrounds

ontario

Holstein Happenings

APRIL 2024

April 10

Temiskaming Holstein Club Breeders Cup

April 10

Essex-Kent Breeders Cup

April 11

Bruce County Breeders Cup and Social

April 12

Elgin Holstein Club Family Bowling Night

Cy’s Bowling Lanes & Lounge, Aylmer

April 13

York Region Holstein Banquet

Stone Haven Banquet Hall, Aurora

April 17-19

Quebec Spring Show

Victoriaville

Judge: Jean-Claude Fleury

April 18

Niagara Holstein Club Breeders Cup

April 24-25

Ontario Spring Discovery Show

Ancaster Fairgrounds

Judge Ridley Wikkerink

April 25-27

National Holstein Convention

Hamilton, See page 2-3 for event details

MAY 2024

May 25

Provincial Judging School

Karnview Farms, Woodstock

JUNE 2024

June 26

Bruce County Holstein Club Golf Tournament

Walkerton Golf and Country Club

June 27

Perth County Twilight Meeting

Sandy Peaks Dairy Ltd.

June 27

Waterloo Holstein Club Twilight Meeting

Welane Holsteins

June 28

Brant-Wentworth Twilight Meeting

Hosted by Tony and Elaine Verdonk

JULY 2024

July 3

Huron County Holstein Club Twilight Social

July 3-4

Eastern Junior Show

Spencerville Fairgrounds

July 3-4

EastGen Showcase

Spencerville Fair

July 3-4

East-Central Junior Show

Orono Fairgrounds

July 4

Grey County Holstein Club Twilight Meeting

July 5

Ontario County Holstein Club Twilight Meeting

Loka Holstiens

July 6

York Twilight Meeting

Beckridge Holsteins

July 8-9

EastGen Challenge West

Woodstock Agricultural Society

July 11

Wellington County Holstein Club

Twilight Meeting

Windy Pine, Douglas M. Weber

July 11-12

West Junior Show, Woodstock Fairgrounds

July 11-12

EastGen Challenge East

Markham Fairgrounds

July 12

Provincial Judging School

Winright Holsteins, Winchester

July 12

Dundas County Twilight Meeting

Winright Holsteins

July 16

Elgin Holstein Club Family Social

July 18

Northumberland County Holstein Club

Twilght Meeting

Hoftyzer Farms Ltd.

July 18

Essex-Kent Holstein Club Twilight Social

Bart & Laura Klessens & Family

July 24

Leeds & Grenville Holstein Club Family Night

Doug Cleary, Spencerville

July 24-26

Ontario Summer Show

Lindsay Exhibition Grounds

July 30

Lanark Holstein Club Family Night & Twilight Meeting

Knapview Farm, Almonte

AUGUST 2024

August 3

West-Central Summer Showdown Youth

Dairy Show

Paris Fairgrounds

August 10

Elgin County Holstein Show

Aylmer Fairgrounds

August 15

Eastern Ontario Invitational Show

Spencerville Fair, Judge – Stephanie Warner

August 22

Simcoe County Holstein Show

Essa Agriplex

August 22

Oxford County Holstein Show

Woodstock Fairgrounds

August 22-23

West-Central Junior Show

Grand River Raceway, Elora

August 29

Brant-Wentworth Holstein Show

Paris Fairgrounds

SEPTEMBER 2024

September 13

Perth-Waterloo County Holstein Show

OCTOBER 2024

October 1-4

World Dairy Expo

Madison, WI

October 25

Perth County Holstein Club Banquet

For more event details, visit our online calendar at –www.ontarioholstein.ca/calendar

ADVERTISE IN THE LINK!

SUMMER BOOKING DEADLINE: JUNE 10, 2024

SUMMER ISSUE WILL FEATURE: BREEDER’S CUP WINNERS, SPRING SHOW RESULTS ...AND SO MUCH MORE!

HOLSTEIN YOUTH

Tyler Canning: Collaboration at Canhope Holsteins

OOn the outskirts of Palmerston lies a thriving 100-acre farm, where the Canning family works to nurture their land and livestock. With parents Shelley and Ron leading the charge, alongside their sons Travis and Tyler, Canhope Holsteins is a special hub where ideas are exchanged and plans are made to enhance their herd. Tyler describes Canhope Holsteins as an environment of creativity and growth, where every member contributes their perspective towards the common goal of breeding and herd improvement. Each morning, the Canning family embraces the day’s challenges and opportunities, united in their passion for the operation.

Tyler’s current role at Canhope Holsteins is in the day-to-day operations. Tyler’s mornings are spent in the barn for chores with his father and brother, first in the heifer barn for feeding, then straight to the cattle barn for feeding. His afternoons are spent on miscellaneous tasks around the farm, completing whatever chores need to be done for the day. From March to November, Tyler likes to make sure he can spend his afternoons doing what he really loves –working and training heifers in preparation for show season.

Preparing cows and heifers for the show ring is an ongoing task that Tyler enjoys dedicating his time to. Beyond the daily chores and breeding decisions, he invests substantial time and effort into training each cow and heifer that has a potential to show. From proper nutrition to precise grooming techniques, every aspect of their care is carefully considered to showcase the cow’s beauty and potential to its fullest extent. Tyler’s dedication shines through as he works tirelessly

to build a strong rapport with each animal, instilling confidence and trust that translates into a standout performance in the show ring. It’s a labor of love that demonstrates Tyler’s commitment to excellence in the ring and in the barn, ensuring the legacy of Canhope Holsteins. Tylers top pick in the barn is Budjon-Vail DRMN Anyways-ET. She is a standout presence at Canhope Holsteins. Acquired at the Hanalee Tag Sale in Spring 2019, she quickly captured Tyler’s heart with her extraordinary qualities. After calving in the fall of the same year, she wasted no time in making her mark on the show circuit, winning 9th place at the Royal Winter Fair in the Milking Yearling Class. Reflecting on that significant day, Tyler fondly recalls his mother’s remark, “Who is she, what is she,” a testament to the draw to this remarkable cow. From the moment they laid eyes on her, Tyler and his family knew she was something special.

Tyler talks fondly about his journey through the Dairy Club, starting at the age of 10 as a dedicated 4-H member. His inaugural participation in the TD Classic marked a pivotal moment, securing an impressive 3rd place in Junior Showmanship alongside his cherished calf, Canhope Dempsey Leslie. From the moment of his first victory, Tyler was hooked on the show ring, and competed at every TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic throughout his 4-H career. Over the years, Tyler’s showing success grew, as he secured 1st place in Junior Showmanship at the TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic in his second and third year of competition.

2019 was a special year for Tyler, particularly at The Royal’s open

show, where his 4-H calf secured a notable 5th place in the Fall Heifer calf class and was awarded the Best Bred and Owned title, a proud achievement for Tyler. The victories continued as CANHOPE BEEMER BRECKETT captured the title for both All-Canadian 4-H and All-Ontario 4-H recognition.

In his final year of 4-H, Tyler’s journey came full circle as he won the coveted title of Grand Champion Showperson at the TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic in 2022.

Tyler’s journey in the dairy Industry, as well as the world of Holstein breeding reflects not only an enthusiasm for the industry but also a strong commitment to family and tradition. As he looks ahead, he plans of managing Canhope Holsteins alongside his brother, taking on the daily operations and continuing to fulfill breeding goals. Yet, Tyler’s ambitions extend beyond the farm gates, as his aspiration to pursue a judging career highlights a dedication to furthering his expertise and contributing to the broader agricultural community.

“You never forget that bond you create when you spend all summer working with an animal to get to that point of showing her.”

- TYLER CANNING

PHOTOS 1. Tylers favourite cow – Budjon-Vail DRMN Anyways EX-91, pictured as a 2nd calf Senior 3-Year Old 2. Tyler showing Budjon-Vail DRMN Anyways at the Dufferin-Wellington County Show 2021 where she was named 1st Senior 3-Year-Old. 3. TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic 2022 where Tyler was Grand Champion Showman, 4. Tyler with Canhope Master Brianna 1st place fall yearling Dufferin Wellington county show 2023 PHOTO 1 BY PATTY JONES, PHOTO 2 BY KATRINA JOY PHOTOGRAPHY, PHOTO 3 BY ELLA WRIGHT, PHOTO 4 BY WHITNEY BALL PHOTOGRAPHY.

PHOTOS 5. Tyler leading Fraeland Fever Bella, was 1st Junior Showman at the 2014 TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic 6. Tyler with Canhope Beemer Breckett - 5th place Senior Calf RAWF 2019 and Best Bred & Owned 7. Tyler leading Canhope Master Brianna during showmanship finals, 8. A 5-Year Old Tyler with Canhope Dundee Mikayla 9. Tyler leading Hodglynn Victor Lola at the Hodglynn’s Finest Sale 2022, 10. Tyler leading Canhope Atwood McKenna, 1st Junior Showman 2015 TD Classic

PHOTO 6 BY COWSMOPOLITAN, PHOTO 9 BY CLAIRE SWALE; ALL OTHERS SUBMITTED.

Best of the Breed

Over 125,000

KGS (37.8)

..............................................

C allumlea Farms, N ew H amburg WEBERACRES AARON DONNA VG-88 ............................................

KGS (34.18) Weberacre Farms

P superiorProduction

PRODUCTION = PROFIT. JUST AS WITH THE TYPE CLASSIFICATION, IT IS IMPORTANT TO RECOGNIZE THE COWS THAT GET THE JOB DONE. Congratulations to all of the breeders and owners of the top five superior production records in each age division for January through the March 15, 2024. Please note that only cows that are scored are included in our listing.

Stanton Bros Limited, Ilderton

........................................

Ronbeth H olsteins, H astings

ABBYLAYNE SHOTTLE MORISSA VG-85 .........................................

A lbert F ledderus, L

P leasant Hill H olsteins nc., St. M arys

KGS (22.99)

KGS (30.34)

KGS (35.07)

CREEK SIDE MOBILE JELLO VG-87 130,674 KGS (33.79)

C reek S ide H olsteins, L ombardy

BRYHILL JEDYSO APPLE PIE VG-87..................................................

Fepro Farms, C obden

KGS (26.47)

MCEWEN BOLTON BIJOUX EX-91......................................................129,339 KGS (26.68)

M cewen Farms, N epean

LADIES-FIRST SUP BRYANA-ET EX-93-8E ...................................... 128,279 KGS (25.96)

A ndrew D en H aan, Fergus

WIKKERINK HILL BARBIE EX-90-3E

W ikkerink Farms L td., N orwich

(136) (393)

STANTONS METROPOLIS JENGA VG-87-2YR 02-10 398 397 429 1,224 (126) (108) (142) (376)

Stanton Bros Limited, Ilderton

SPEEDVALLEY GENTLE COURTNEY GP-80-2YR 02-11 407 352 405 1,164 (136) (85) (120) (341)

Gordon Dunk Farms Limited, Guelph

NEWMORNING THOREAU TEXI 3,574 VG-85-2YR 02-09 409 383 426 1,218 (135) (74) (131) (340)

New Morning Holsteins, Monkton

MILSTEIN DURAN MADAMEWEB GP-80-2YR 02-01 331 332 339 1,002 (118) (103) (115) (336)

Milstein Farms, Wainfleet

3 YEAR OLDS

NEWMORNING TATOO SHANNON 3,421 VG-88-3YR 03-01 415 476 457 1,348 (141) (167) (162) (470)

New Morning Holsteins, Monkton

STANTONS CAMARO ASYNDRIA VG-85-2YR 03-00 421 433 428 1,282 (128) (119) (127) (374)

Stanton Bros Limited, Ilderton

ALBADON MILKTIME QWAWA F-66-2YR 03-03

Albadon Farms Ltd., Teeswater

128,114 KGS (34.98)

428 480 421 1,329 (127) (115) (102) (344)

OVERDALE ARMY BEATRIX VG-87-4YR 03-10 413 378 395 1,186 (138) (85) (106) (329)

O verdale Farms Ltd., L’orignal

WEPPLER ALCOVE GLOVE GP-80-2YR 03-02 416 449 390 1,255 (118) (125) (84) (327)

W Weppler Farms Ltd., Clifford

4 YEAR OLDS

ROYBRIDGE KINGPIN LINKO EX-91-2E 04-11 335 547 331 1,213 (81) (255) (78) (414

Roy Spence, Elmvale

MAPLEKEYS DOORMAN CHARITY EX-94-5YR 04-05 371 398 409 1,178 (86) (98) (117) (301)

Maplekeys Farms, Aylmer

HEATHERICK ARTIST VANILLA EX-90-4YR 04-00 374 377 405 1,156 (93) (86) (117) (296)

EMERSON VG-86-3YR 04-01

409 1,176 (108) (62) (107) (277) De Boer Acres Holsteins, Selkirk

5 YEAR OLDS

OCONNORS LIVING THE DREAM VG-88-5YR 05-01

Owners of the Grand Champion Cow at a County Holstein show will receive a one-time 10% off on a half or full page ad.*

Fraeland Farms, Fergus

REGANCREST RBST BLOSSOM-ET EX-91-5YR 05-00 314 394 353 1,061 (60) (113) (91) (264)

Maplevue Farms, Listowel

OCONNORS EPIC LILAC

2024

The top CanWest DHI Management Herd in each county will receive a one-time 10% off on a half or full page ad.*

Hyland Holsteins, Kippen

MATURE COWS

VICKI FLETCHER PHOTOGRAPHY 61

*Note: Promotion will only be honoured for one year following the show or award. Please inform the Link Editor at time of booking.

(79) (87) (249)

EASTEDGE ALTON SHERRY VG-85-4YR 08-01 389 437 363 1,189 (118) (144) (97) (359)

East

Maplevue Farms, Listowel

06-00 343 377 357 1,077 (84) (90) (84) (258)

FRAELAND GOLDWYN BONNIE EX-95-3E 08-11 306 356 337 999 (69) (93) (90) (252)

Highlights

FROZEN GENETICS ONLINE SALE

FEBRUARY 14-15, 2024, UNIQUE DESIGNS AND MARKETING

TOP SELLERS

F. UNIX OR F. LAMBDA X KINGSWAY DOORMAN JET $1,100

Buyer: Philip Thein, Germany

F. ALPHA X WEEKSDALE DEVOUR WHISKY $1,050

Buyer: RGH Holsteins, Netherlands

F. ALPHA X CHEERS AVALNCH CHANTELLE ................... $1,000

Buyer: RGH Holsteins, Netherlands

110 EMBRYO AVG.................................................................... $590

CLARKVALLEY HOLSTEINS SALE

FEBRUARY 19, 2024, BEAVERTON

TOP SELLERS

MAGOLAIT DEMPSEY MAROLILY .................................... $60,000

Buyer: Alan Faris, East Gwillimbury

WESTCOAST ZOAR ANIS..................................................... $22,000

Buyer: Ferme Gusnis, Sebastien Dumouchel, QC

BLONDIN ENERGY SATELLITE $21,500

Buyer: Granron Holsteins, Oshawa

97 LOT AVG $8,850

UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH COLLEGE ROYAL

CLASSIC

MARCH 8, 2024, ELORA

TOP SELLERS

ALLARWAY REALIST ROMANO $9,200

Buyer: Beckridge Holsteins & Quality Hoslteins, Keswick

TRENT VALLEY ENERGY ICED .............................................. $7,400

Buyer: Barclay Phoenix, Keaton Phoenix & Ken Empey, Uxbridge

KARNVIEW MASTER RITZY ...................................................$5,300

Buyer: Randy Woodhouse, Clarksburg

34 LOT AVG ........................................................................... $3,673

2024 HOLSTEIN ONTARIO BOARD

MONICA KAGI FINCH - STORMONT 63REDLODGE@GMAIL.COM 613-577-1658

COLE VERBURG PAST-PRESIDENT ATHENS - LEEDS & GRENVILLE WAY2SUCCINCT@YAHOO.COM 613-802-3604

NOMINATIONS WELCOME!

388 (+70) P rotein

PRODUCED AS A 4 YEAR OLD IN 305 DAYS

JOALFARMS ABBOTT FINESSE

A llan & L orne V is 17,903 KGS Milk 1 ,095 KGS Fat 596 KGS P rotein CompositeFP 1 ,691

B CA (Deviation) 353 (+109) Milk 5 76 (+274) Fat 368 (+106) P rotein

PRODUCED AS A 5 YEAR OLD IN 305 DAYS

GOULDHAVEN AVALANCHE EVA

G ouldhaven Farms, Foresters Falls

29,910 KGS Milk 1,405 KGS Fat 975 KGS P rotein CompositeFP 2,380

B CA (Deviation) 600 (+288) Milk 759 (+ 417 ) Fat 617 (+301) P rotein

PRODUCED AS A MATURE COW IN 305 DAYS

DEBOER SUPERSHOT WILLOW

D eBoer A cres H olsteins, S elkirk

19,202 KGS Milk 937 KGS Fat 657 KGS P rotein C ompositeFP 1,594 B CA (Deviation) 351 (+62) Milk 466 (+164) Fat 389 (+89) P rotein

2024

To book your ad call or text (519) 209-5553 or email thelink@ontario.holstein.ca

THANK YOU JAMES AND ADAM!

Do you know someone who would make a good addition to our Holstein Ontario Board in the East-Central District? Would you like to make a positive impact? Contact a Board Member today!

JEFF KRUL ARTHUR WELLINGTON KRULEJ@MSN.COM 519-848-2227

ALAN HAWTHORNE VICE-PRESIDENT LISTOWEL - PERTH BOBMUR.FARMS@GMAIL.COM 519-292-6528

KYLE MACLEOD PRESIDENT EMBRO - OXFORD KYLE_MACLEOD@HOTMAIL.CA 519-320-0729

We extend our heartfelt thanks to past Board Members, James Cranston (l) and Adam Hunt. James joined the Board of Directors in 2016, representing the West-Central District, and served as President in 2022. His steadfast leadership, unique sense of humor and good business sense made him a valuable member at the Board table. Thank you, James for your eight years of service!

Thank you also to Adam Hunt, who joined the Holstein Ontario Board of Directors in 2022. Adam represented the East-Central District and his calm and quiet demeanor and his experience with shows and judging were a welcome presence at Board meetings and Branch events. Thank you, Adam, for your contributions!

WELCOME JEFF!

The Board of Directors of Holstein Ontario is excited to welcome Jeff Krul as our newest Board member representing West-Central District.

Jeff farms with his wife and 3 kids on their family farm near Arthur, along with his parents and 2 part time staff. Krul Holsteins owns 600 acres and milk 120 pure bred Holsteins. They raise replacement heifers, beef and veal and also do some cash cropping and custom work.

NATIONAL DIRECTOR BRIAN SLAUGHTER WARWICK TWP - LAMBTON BSLAUGHTER@HOLSTEIN.CA 519-786-6062

MEET COLBY

Meet our co-op student, Colby Young. Colby is from Brantford, ON, where he attends high school and is currently participating in Brant 4-H.

Colby has been around the agricultural community his entire life. He enjoys raising purebred sheep and competing at numerous county fairs including the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. Recently, Colby has worked with several different farms including Pierstein Farms at this year’s past Royal Winter Fair and currently works at H.S. Knill Transport in Paris, ON.

In the future, Colby would love a career in the agriculture industry. Taking a co-op at Holstein Ontario has allowed him to further his understanding of the agriculture industry and gain more hands-on experience for the future.

This spring, Colby is excited to join the team at Holstein Ontario. He looks forward to meeting new people, learning new skills, and travelling to a variety of shows and events in the coming months.

NAME: ANDREW, JENNIFER, TAYLOR AND WILL VANDER

MEULEN; JIM & LIZ LIVOCK

HERD SIZE: 40 MILKING HERD

Although this breeder profile is from a jersey breeder perspective, the breeding philosophy and goals are universal in the dairy industry. We all strive for excellence and prioritize herd health and productivity in our operations, regardless of breed.

1. Describe your family’s history with Holsteins.

2024 marks the 90th year for purebred Jerseys at Avonlea. The farm was started in 1934, in Oakville, Ontario by Jennifer’s grandfather and great Uncle. Today the farm, located in Brighton, Ontario is owned and operated by Andrew, Jennifer, Taylor and Will Vander Meulen, along with Jennifer’s parents, Jim & Liz Livock. We are a two-time Master Breeder herd in the Jersey breed. Two Polled Holstein heifers were purchased in 2021 at the time of the Vogue Cattle Co. dispersal. Jennifer had been the Business Administrator of Vogue for over 10 years, and wanted to have some of the blood lines that Vogue helped to develop. These two cows are still in the herd and are both VG-2Yr. Olds.

2. What are your breeding goals?

We strive to breed productive, balanced cows from deep cow families. We aim for strong type (with emphasis on feet and legs, udders and dairy strength), while maintaining high components (with emphasis on fat and protein %).

3. What genetic tools are most important in your breeding program? The genetic tools that we utilize are milk recording, classification and genomic testing. In this day and age, there is a vast amount of information at your fingertips – you just have to determine how best to use it.

4. Describe the ultimate/ideal cow for your operation: The “ultimate” cow in our herd would possess superior dairy strength, good feet and legs, and have a well attached fore and rear udder. She would have the ability to produce high solids milk and be able to breed back, year after year. She would also have a pedigree “as long as your arm”.

5. What are you most proud of in your herd/operation?

One of the things we are most proud of, is the fact that we are working with the 4th generation of family on the farm. Our children, Taylor (23) and Will (21) are still relatively young, but are a very large part of the day-to-day operation of the farm. We also take a lot of pride in watching animals that we have bred, go on and excel for other people.

6. If you could improve one thing in your herd/operation, what would it be?

We feel that you should always be trying to improve – it is important to not stand still and constantly be trying to do better! One place we would like to make changes, is with our calf housing. The 1st 3 months of life is crucial to the life span of a dairy cow, so we want to provide the best possible management to these calves.

7. If you could have ANY cow standing in your barn, who would it be and why?

We would want the next Royal or WDE Grand Champion cow standing in our barn. We love trying to develop new and upcoming cows, so to have the next Champion is always a dream come true!

8. What is one thing you would tell a young farmer starting out that you wish you had been told?

We would tell someone that it is important to have long-term goals and PATIENCE! You need to be willing to make sacrifices – with your time and money! You need to stay true to your beliefs and goals and do what works for your own personal operation – not what the neighbour does!

9. How do you use genomic information in your herd and what are your thoughts on the future of genomics?

We do utilize genomic testing, but not on the entire herd. We test the calves that we feel might produce results that we can use from a marketing standpoint. Some of the bulls that we have used in the past will not result in favourable genomic numbers. We feel that genomics is just one tool in the toolbox and we depend more on genomic data when considering health traits and haplotypes. We also like to follow some of the type data provided, esp. the JUI (Jersey Udder) index in the USA.

10. How many cows do you flush each year? How do you market your embryos that are for sale?

We typically flush multiple donors, four times a year (to correspond with show age calves). We flush cows and virgin heifers. We typically sell all the #1 embryos and implant #2 and #3 embryos and utilize a local Holstein breeder to implant these embryos. We have developed a strong foreign embryo market (since BSE forced us to find new markets for our genetics when the borders were closed). To this date, we have exported embryos to over 36 countries world-wide using email marketing and social media.

11. Which bull do you feel has had the most impact on your herd over the years and today?

Bulls such as PREMIER and VICTORIOUS have perhaps had the largest impact on the herd currently. Like with the focus on our females, we look for bulls from strong cow families that offer functional type and strong components. While not essential, we try to use A2 bulls. With our Holsteins, we also focus strongly on polled genetics.

12. What are the management practices in place on your farm that you feel contribute the most to the success of your operation? Why?

One of the things that we feel is the most important, is ROUTINE! Cattle thrive on routine -- doing the same things, consistently. We try to make high quality forages, and feed a forage heavy diet, as to try to cut back on costly grains and supplements. We aim to be able to produce marketable genetics, and appeal to a variety of producers, worldwide.