Summer 2023 Link

Holstein Ontario

20 Corporate Place, Brantford, ON N3T 5R4

Phone: (519) 653-6180 Fax: (519) 756-9982

www.ontarioholstein.ca

GENERAL MANAGER Pam Charlton pamcharlton@ontario.holstein.ca 519-861-9851

EDITOR, Andrea Emond aemond@ontario.holstein.ca (519) 209-5553

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

DATA AND INFORMATION SPECIALIST, Molly McMillan admin@ontario.holstein.ca (705) 333-9690

SUMMER INTERN, Molly Sayers info@ontario.holstein.ca

2023/2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT, COLE VERBURG way2succinct@yahoo.com 613-802-3604 PAST-PRESIDENT, JAMES CRANSTON cranstonbackup@hotmail.com 905-719-0196

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

DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE, 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

ADAM HUNT trekili77@gmail.com 613-329-2649

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

MAGAZINE DESIGN

Jess Willison

AD DESIGN

Jess Willison

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Bonnie Cooper

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Anna Haupt, Bonnie Cooper, Bruce Sargent, Claire Swale, Murilo Carvalho, Pam Charlton, Patty Jones, The Bullvine, Vicki Fletcher

we are both from farms and farming was always our dream.” In 2021 they built a new free-stall robot barn and retrofitted their tie-stall for heifers. Classification and DHI are helping them to improve their herd, increase production and reach their goals. PHOTO BY ANNA HAUPT.

16%

Based on a survey of on-farm results, calves fed BioForce® or Bionic® acidified milk replacer grew an average of 16% more g/day than on competitor milk replacers. Data was collected from 58 farms including 1,020 holstein calves.

Speak to your GVF Dairy Specialist or a GVF Ruminant Nutritionist about BioForce® or Bionic® acidified milk replacer and get your calves off to a great start.

Faster Growth Over the competition

FEATURES

26% protein from 100% milk sources

18% fat from highest quality digestible sources

Flavouring agents

Organic acids, minerals and selenium yeast

Reach out to your GVF Dairy Specialist to learn more about our Calf nutrition products.

Follow us on Twitter at @GVFDairy

EDITOR’S NOTE

ALL GOOD THINGS MUST COME TO AN END

IIt’s true what they say – all good things must come to an end – and it is with this in mind that I write my final Editor’s Note in The Link and complete what will be my last issue of the magazine.

I joined this great organization back in 2011, initially filling a maternity leave, and then being hired on a permanent basis a year later. It has been my absolute honour to have worked for the Ontario membership and to have shared so many of your stories in The Link!

Looking back, some of my fondest moments stem from the relationships I have formed. Many of you have become close friends and I know these friendships will continue long after I leave here. Over the years I have had the pleasure of sharing meals with you around your kitchen tables, meeting your kids, touring your barns and learning about your favourite cows. Though I didn’t grow up on a dairy farm, I now officially know more about cows than I ever imagined I would want to know!

I have witnessed first-place finishes and last-place finishes, toured beautiful barns, new and old, and marveled at a new baby calf being born on my very first farm tour. I have pictured cows in some crazy places, gotten lost on backroads in all sorts of weather, cried during more than one interview, and stepped in a pile of fresh manure while taking photos, at a show, in flip-flops (true story). And through it all, even in my early days when I was clearly out of my element, you all made me feel like I belonged. Thank you for these great experiences and for teaching me so much about this exciting industry!

And now to the people I have worked with during my time at the Branch! We have leaned on one another and rallied during challenging times, shared lots of laughs, learned from one another and achieved some remarkable things together. Thank you for taking a chance on me and for showing me what true passion and dedication look like. Thank you, also, to everyone who helps put The Link together each quarter. Though it’s my name and photo that appear on this page, there are many people working hard behind the scenes to produce this magazine and I am grateful for them all!

If I could leave you all with a bit of advice as I wrap up my time at Holstein Ontario, it would be this: go easy on people. Be gracious with your farm employees, your family members and those with whom you cross paths throughout your life. Be willing to ask silly questions. Be willing to look silly. Accept new challenges, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. Work hard, but take time to appreciate your accomplishments. Be nice to people. Go the extra mile and be the person your parents raised you to be, each and every day.

Although my career path is pulling me away from agriculture, I know I will always be connected to my rural roots. An editorial position is not without its commitments, and in all my “free time” now, I hope to reacquaint myself with the 4-H program that I benefitted from growing up. My son and daughter have expressed interest in joining, so who knows, I may see some of you ringside in the years ahead!

VISION

Passionate Farmers. Prosperous Breed. Progressive Industry.

MISSION

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

CORE VALUES

Passion. Integrity. Teamwork.

CORE PILLARS

Youth Activities. Education. Breed Promotion. Industry Advocates.

ONTARIO SPRING DISCOVERY

APRIL 19-20, 2023 • 179 HEAD • JUDGE MIKE DEAVER

Winter Calf MS TANG ALLIGATR A TRICK-ET

Beckridge Holsteins, Hovden Holstein Farm, Quality Holsteins, Velthuis Farms Ltd, Keswick

SHOWS

Fall Calf

WEEKSDALE LEGEND RECHARGE

Brian Joseph Enright, Jaquemet Holsteins, Velthuis Farms Ltd, Winchester

Summer Yearling HM JR DUCKETT BACKFLIP EMMY

Brian Joseph Enright, Jaquemet Holsteins, Winchester

Spring Yearling KARNVIEW DC UNSTOP ARIZONA

Ronald Grandy, Oshawa

Winter Yearling RES JR MAPEL WOOD DENVER TITLEIST

Mapel Wood Farms, Jerseyville

Fall Yearling JR CHAMP PLEASANTVIEW MASTER DANELLE

Adam Clark, Clarkvalley Holsteins, Colin & Karen Leach, Beaverton

Summer 2 Year Old ECHO GLEN DOORMAN ELLIE

Echo Glen Farm, Dorchester

Spring 2 Year Old HM INT ALTONA LEA DOC HELENA

Frank & Diane Borba, Weeksdale Holsteins Inc, PE

Winter 2 Year Old RES INT MARFLOACRES ALLIGATOR LENA

Fairbanks Cattle Company, Hodglynn Holsteins, Fergus

Fall 2 Year Old FRAELAND CRUSHABULL BANFF Brian Joseph

Enright, Dandyland Farm, Fraeland Farms, Winchester

Junior 3 Year Old HODGLYNN CRUSHABULL HEAVEN

Little Star Holsteins, Watford

Senior 3 Year Old RES CHAMP & INT CHAMP

RAYPIEN UNIX ADEL

Agriber Societa Agricola Srl, Beckridge Holsteins, Quality Holsteins, Vaughn

4 Year Old CHAMP FRAELAND DOORMAN BOURBON

Fraeland Farms, Fergus

5 Year Old HM HUFFMANDALE UNIX MAPLESUGAR

Hodglynn Holsteins, Little Star Holsteins, Matthew Forestell, Kincardine

Mature Cow BRIDGEVIEW SENNET MUFFIN

Bridgeview Farms, Brantford

Full results available at www.assistexpo.ca/results/ontario-spring-discovery/1/1

SHOWMANSHIP (sponsored by Ontario Dairy Trust Fund)

CHAMPION EMMA FINCH

RES CARSON PHOENIX

HM SYDNEY CAIN

JR AWARDS:

JR BREEDER’S HERD MAPELWOOD, JERSEYVILLE

JR BREEDER KARNVIEW FARMS INC, WOODSTOCK

JR EXHIBITOR KARNVIEW FARMS INC, WOODSTOCK

JR PREMIER SIRE GOLDEN-OAKS MASTER-ET

PREMIER AWARDS:

SR BREEDER’S HERD ALTONA LEA, BLACKSTOCK

PREMIER BREEDER FRAELAND FARMS, FERGUS

PREMIER EXHIBITOR FRAELAND FARMS, FERGUS

PREMIER SIRE GOLDEN-OAKS MASTER-ET

PHOTOS 1. Judge Mike Deaver (r) with the show’s Junior Champion, Pleasantview Master Danelle, 2. Steve Fraser showed Fraeland Doorman Bourbon to a Grand Champion finish. He is pictured here with Murray Reissner, who presented the trophy, 3. Altona Lea Farms of Blackstock, Ont. took home Breeder’s Herd honours, 4. Showmanship Judge Curtis McNeil named Emma Finch (l) as Grand Champion Showperson. Reserve went to Carson Phoenix and Honourable Mention was Sydney Cain, 5. This esteemed group of gentlemen came together to select the show’s Supreme Champion. Pictured, from l to r, are Lowell Lindsay, Brian Sayles, Court Carmichael and Larry Bennett (missing from the photo is Brent Walker). Full placings and photos can be found on the Ontario Spring Discovery’s Facebook page.

PHOTOS BY CLAIRE SWALE..

Linked 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!”

HURRYING HARD IN PRESCOTT COUNTY

RECOVERY DRINK OF CHOICE!

Dairy Farmers of Ontario were once again proud to sponsor Chatham Kent’s Trot to the Beach 5K and half-marathon event in June. Volunteers from the Essex-Kent Milk Producers were stationed at the finish line to hand out delicious ice-cold chocolate milk to all participants. Pictured here is Laura Klessens. PHOTO SUBMITTED.

THANK YOU, SECRETARIES!

Our Holstein Clubs would not be what they are without the support of their wonderful secretaries! Thank you, Secretaries, for all you do! Amy De Boer recently received thanks for her time as Secretary of the Haldimand-Norfolk Holstein Club. Other Club Secretaries reaching milestones in 2022 were:

• Pauline Frazer, Dufferin (10 years)

• Natasha Abrams, Frontenac (10 years)

• Marcy Callaghan, Victoria (10 years)

• Leanna Lowry, Lanark (10 years)

• Aaron Breukelman, Thunder Bay (10 years)

• Brandy MacLeod, Renfrew (15 years)

• Joe Krol, Stormont (15 years)

• Matt Bailey, Hastings (15 years)

• Wanda Frisken, Lennox & Addington (15+ years)

Members of the Prescott County Holstein Club enjoyed a fun day out together earlier this year. For the first time, the club executive organized a curling day at the local curling club in March. “We liked that curling is a fun winter activity so it is easier for farmers to make it out, plus it’s rookie and family-friendly.” says organizer Morgan Overvest. “It was a pretty casual day,” she adds, “we wanted to keep it simple for the first year.” Twelve teams of four signed up for the event and had lots of support from spectators. Each team played two games, enjoyed a pizza lunch, and of course, some socializing with their fellow producers. Entry fees of $25 per team went towards a grand prize draw. Morgan shares the club is trying to attract farmers to events that aren’t necessarily show-centric so that everyone can get involved. “Our goal is to run a few more social events in the next couple of years - even if they have nothing to do with cows! It’s just nice to get out and visit with neighbours and other breeders that we don’t always get a chance to see.” The club looks forward to running their Curling Day again next year, following the great feedback they received.

A KNIGHT TO REMEMBER

Members of the Oxford, Middlesex, Huron and Perth Holstein clubs enjoyed an evening out to cheer on the London Knights on March 31 as they faced the Owen Sound Attack. The evening has become somewhat of a tradition for club members, many of whom have been attending since 2015, and the approximately 300 seats available sell out every year without fail. $50 provided attendees with a seat in a designated suite, snacks and a drink. The Knights won the game 7-0 and would go on to sweep the best of seven series in just four games. PHOTOS SUBMITTED.

SPIRIT OF 4-H WINNER

Congratulations to Wellington County’s Spirit of 4-H Winner, Madison Bartlett, pictured here with Club President, Jeff Krul. Madison is an intermediate member of the West Luther 4-H Dairy Club and according to her leader Krista Bates, she embodies the true spirit of 4-H. “This past year I have watched Madison persevere after the passing of her grandfather,” says Krista. “Her grandfather would be at every show cheering her on and I’m so proud that she found the spirit to continue showing on regardless. She worked even harder, truly bonding with her calf and 4-H family.” PHOTO SUBMITTED.

HURON TWILIGHT PIX >>

Jason and Natalie Caesar and their family (pictured at right) were this year’s lucky winners of the calf draw at Huron County’s Twilight meeting this year. Each year, club directors sell tickets to raise funds for the club and a winner from a previous year donates the calf. This year’s calf, Memento Red Eye Rouge P, was donated by Memento Holsteins of Goderich (Trent Johnston and Irene Schuettel). Their son, Lucas, has twice been the lucky winner, and made sure Rouge P was looking her best for the evening. Irene is pictured second from left with club President Matt VanOsch. PHOTOS SUBMITTED.

Photo 1, from l to r, Tyson Nixon, Jesse Bradley, Blake McDonell and Travis Nixon. Photo 2, fom l to r, Craig and Katelyn Leroy, Morgan and Justin Uyterlinde. PHOTOS BY ANNIE ALLEN.

JUNIOR PREMIER AWARDS:

BREEDER’S HERD BRIAN JOSEPH ENRIGHT, WINCHESTER

BREEDER BRIAN JOSEPH ENRIGHT, WINCHESTER

EXHIBITOR DELCREEK HOLSTEINS WINCHESTER

PREMIER SIRE FARNEAR DELTA-LAMBDA-ET

MAXVILLE HOLSTEIN HEIFER SHOW

JUNE 24, 2023 • 55 HEAD • JUDGE YSABEL JACOBS

Spring Heifer WINRIGHT LAMBDA ELLEN

Brian Joseph Enright, Winchester

Winter Heifer JR CHAMP CAL-DENIER-I DL ALEXUS-ET Velthuis Farms Ltd, Osgoode

Senior Calf RES JR WINRIGHT KINGDOC CINCH

Brandon Almeida, Brian Joseph Enright, Frank & Diane Borba, Mary Inn Holstein, Winchester

HM JR WEEKSDALE LEGEND RECHARGE

Brian Joseph Enright, Jaquemet Holsteins, Velthuis Farms Ltd., Winchester

Summer Yearling WINRIGHT ALTITUDE ECSTASY

Brian Joseph Enright, Lucky Hill Dairy Ltd, Winchester

Spring Yearling WINRIGHT SIDEKICK LAVANDER

Breeze Hill Holsteins, Brian Joseph Enright, Jaquemet Holsteins, Raymond J. Smygwaty, Winchester

Winter Yearling SMYGWATYS CHIEF BRUSCHETTA

Belfast Holstein Enr, Mary Inn Holstein, Saint-Patrice-DeBeaurivage, Qc

Senior Yearling DELCREEK BOUJEE LIKE Delcreek Holsteins, Winchester

Full results available at www.assistexpo.ca/results/maxvillefair/1/1

4-H JUNIOR CHAMPIONS:

4-H JR CHAMP SMYGWATYS MASTER BRITTTaylor Mathers

Michel Beaulieu, Ste. Anne De Prescott

RES 4-H JR CHAMP WINRIGHT SL SIDEKICK JADE

Brian Joseph Enright, Ferme Jean-Paul Petitclerc & Fils Inc., Sunnylodge Farms Inc, Winchester

R&W CHAMPIONS:

RW JR CHAMP ROSENHILL BRAYDEN CALI RED Rosenhill Holsteins, St. Albert

RES RW JR CHAMP RIVERDOWN ALTITUDE DREAM DATE Rosenhill Holsteins, St. Albert

HM RW JR CHAMP ROSENHILL ALLEGIANT FAITH RED

Rosenhill Holsteins, St. Albert

PHOTOS 1. Bagpiper Erin Blair kicks off the show, 2. Winright’s Jr .Breeder’s Herd, 3. A strong Summer Yearling class lines up, 4. This year’s Showmanship Competition brought lots of smiles, 5. Velthuis Farms had Junior Champion with Cal-Denier-I DL Alexus-ET, followed by Winright Kingdoc Cinch as Reserve and Weeksdale Legend Recharge as Honourable Mention. PHOTOS BY THE BULLVINE.

FINDING PURPOSE AFTER TRAGEDY

OOn August 14, 2021, Jacob Kingma experienced the unimaginable. After pushing feed in his nine-year-old barn in Lambton County, he turned in for the night. Just after midnight, he heard some commotion outside and was startled by the frantic knocking from neighbours trying to get him up. What he saw when he got outside was “horrifying.” His barn, which had been fine just a few hours earlier, was covered in flames from top to bottom. “There was nothing I could do” Jacob says, remembering back to that fateful night. He couldn’t bring himself to take a closer look and returned to the house to let the firefighters do their job.

Despite their best efforts, 154 cows were lost in the fire. As Jacob explains, it felt like members of his own family - many of whom he had raised from calves - were taken away from him. Though a handful of cows escaped, they were badly burned and had to be euthanized the next day. Thankfully, the heifers that were housed in a separate facility were spared. It was hard for Jacob and his family, who had emigrated from Holland in 2010 and had worked so hard to build the kind of herd they had always wanted. In 2012, the family had purchased a milking herd from Jan Ploeg and built a sand-bedded free-stall barn with enough space for 120 cows. And now, less than a decade later, they were forced to start over.

Focusing on the future is what helped the family move forward and making plans for a new barn provided a much-needed distraction. “It wasn’t easy,” Jacob shares, going from milking 115 cows one day to none the next. Looking at the empty spot where their barn once stood was a constant reminder of the night they lost it all. “We definitely had our rough periods, but working on something new helped us stay strong.”

A couple weeks after the fire, Jacob and his family started touring newly built barns to come up with some ideas for their rebuild. Then in October, more good news came for the Kingmas. As corn was being taken off, Jacob received a phone call from his custom

STORY BY ANDREA EMOND

harvester. He had come across a cow in the corn field, full of burn marks and obviously belonging to the family. She was thin, but alive. Jacob rushed out on his 4-wheeler, but the cow spooked and ran further into the rows. The next morning, first thing, he went looking for her again. “We started chopping again and were almost down to the last six rows. And that’s when we found her, standing there, calmly chewing her cud.” It took two seasoned professionals on horseback with lassos in hand and a trained dog to finally catch her. “She drank for 20 minutes straight once we got her back to the barn,” Jacob says. In addition to eating the corn from the field, she had been licking the dew off the plants and drinking from puddles to survive during her month on the lam. Even more surprising, is that she delivered a healthy calf a month after she was found. Milking the newly fresh “Fire Cow” and another cow Jacob received from his good friend Renze Vanderploeg, provided some purpose when it was needed most. The Kingmas milked these cows with a mobile milker and then fed the milk to a handful of calves they had on the farm. By March of 2022, a new milkhouse was up on their property, and by June, the new barn was framed and insulated. The slowest part was the concrete, but even that was completed by late Summer. In September, just over a year after the fire, the cows moved in. “Start up was a very busy time but we quickly fell into a new routine.”

With the backing of a good insurance policy, the family was able to purchase 130 cows from fellow Lambton County breeders, Van Engelen Dairy Farms Ltd. and Stewardson Dairy to start anew. It was a busy time, full of the family adjusting to their new robot barn and getting as many cows in calf as possible. They had 55 cows pregnant in one shot and the young cows they purchased were able to quickly adapt to the robots. “We couldn’t have hoped for a better start!” Jacob shares.

Though things are moving in the right direction now, the Kingmas, like many others who have experienced a fire, will never forget that

night they saw their barn in flames. “I’m a big guy, but something like that has a huge impact on you,” Jacob says. He’s proud of his family, who has leaned on one another to stay strong, and grateful for everyone who helped in the aftermath. “It was amazing, how many people came to help clean up and offer food and support,” he says. “That helps you a lot.”

The cause of the fire was never officially determined, but the family believes it started somewhere in the milkhouse. Jacob was fortunate to have a good insurance policy in place and advises his fellow farmers to make sure theirs is up to date. “Building costs have tripled in the past few years,” he explains, noting no one ever thinks it’s going to happen to them.

Today production in the Kingma’s newly built sand-bedded freestall is 40-42 kgs per cow on average. Things are looking up for this hardworking and humble family. Their story serves as a reminder that when you are down on your luck, the best thing you can do is find purpose and keep moving forward.

PHOTOS: 1. From l to r, Jacob Jr., Ciara, Baukje and Jacob Kingma in their new barn.

2. The Kingmas have named their only surviving cow the Fire Cow,

PHOTO 1 SUBMITTED.

PHOTO

2 BY CIARA KINGMA

BRANTWENTWORTH Judge –Doug Karn

2023 Breeders’ Cup Results

Congratulations to the winners of Breeders’ Cup Competitions across Ontario! Note below, (G) = Grand; (R) = Reserve and (HM) = Honourable Mention.

1st Lactation

2nd Lactation

3 + Lactations

BRUCE Judge –Brian Carscadden

ELM BEND GOCART (R) Elm Bend Holsteins

LEGEND-MAKER VICTOR GARAFAX (G) Legend-Maker Holsteins

LEGEND-MAKER DOORMAN CHINA Don-Mair Farms & Legend-Maker Holsteins

Production HATCHLEY BONUCCI CAMILLA 399 (HM) Talsma Farms Inc.

1st Lactation

3rd Lactation

60,000kgs

1st Lactation

DUNDAS

Judge –Alan Nanne

BELMORAL MASTER TASSEL Belmoral Farms Ltd.

MEADOWBLOOM KINGBOY CINDERELLA (G) Meadowbloom Holsteins

HICKLEE ARMANI ARIEL Cameron Hickling, Adrian & Megan Franken

BURMANIA DENVER JAZZ Burmania Farms

2nd Lactation HARMONY VIEW HANNAH (HM) Winright Holsteins

3+ Lactations

60,000kgs

Progeny of Dam

VRIESDALE EXPANDER LADY LIZZY (G) Vriesdale Holsteins

VRIESDALE LINEMAN ERASER Vriesdale Holsteins

HARMONY VIEW HANNAH HARMONY VIEW CARLY Harmony View

2ND PLACE

BROWNDALE MACNUT P PIPER Browndale Farm

ELM BEND GOOSE BUMP Elm Bend Holsteins

DON-MAIR VICTOR ELDORADO Don-Mair Farms

ELM BEND GO CRAZY Elm Bend Holsteins

BELMORAL MIRAND JENNIFER Belmoral Farms Ltd.

CHRISTHILL AMMO ALIVIA Christhill Farms

CHRISTHILL MVP LADY Christhill Farms

WINRIGHT DOORMAN EMERALD Winright, Lucky Hill and Hamming

VRIESDALE OTHELLO LOYALTY Vriesdale Holsteins

WEENARDA HOTLNE ADDILYN (R) Weenarda Farms

MELNA HEADLINER COOLNESS Melna Holsteins

BURMANIA ATWOOD BOURBON

BURMANIA RANDALL BRANDY Burmania Farms

3RD PLACE

LEGEND-MAKER JACOTRED MAPLE Don-Mair Farms & Legend-Maker Holsteins

BROWNDALE MACNUT P NICKY Browndale Farm

ELM BEND GLYCERINE Elm Bend Holsteins

HYLLTOP TOPSY JOAN Vellenga Farms Ltd.

CEDARPATCH MASTER LUCY Cedarpatch Holsteins

DORAL GARAGE DOOR Doral Farms Inc.

ATOZ MERIDIAN VINUM A to Z Farms Ltd.

MELNA EXCALIBUR APPLE CRUMBLE Melna Holsteins

BURMANIA UNIX ICON Burmania Farms

AIJA UNDENIED VEIL Jaquemet Holsteins

WEENARDA KIAN KATIE Weenarda Farms

MELNA MONTROSS HALLO

MELNA MIRAND HALF TIME Melna Holsteins

DURHAM Judge –Laura Phoenix

1st Lactation MAIFIELD RANDALL FREA Almet Farms

2nd Lactation MAIFIELD KINGPIN BLANCHE (G) Almet Farms

3+ Lactations

BENRISE LAMBDA LACY Benschop Farms

FRICOSONS AVALANCHE ADORE Fricosons Holsteins & Sikmadale Holsteins

ALTONA LEA JEFFERSON GRANGER Frank Barkey & Family

SIKMADALE DOORMAN BUSCH LIGHT Sikmadale Holsteins

GRAND CHAMPION - ONTARIO CTY

SIMCOE’s 1st LACT. WINNER

GRAND CHAMPION - WELLINGTON’

GRAND CHAMPION - DUNDAS

COUNTY CLASS 1ST PLACE 2ND PLACE 3RD PLACE

MIDDLESEX

Judge –Jenn Charlton

NIAGARA

Judge –Jeff West

1st Lactation

3+ Lactations

1st Lactation

2nd Lactation

3+ Lactations

60,000 Kgs

ALFINCH APPLE-CRISP TITO Allan Lloyd Finch & David Z Finch

CAVANALECK HIGH OCTANE OSMIC Cavanaleck Farms Ltd.

SUMMERSTIME ALLIGATO HEYYALL Summers Farms Ltd.

FEEDERLANE MIRAND TAFFY Feederlane Farms & Emma Roszell

HUIZTEIN DENVER BEAUTIFUL (R)

Huiztein Farms Inc.

FEEDERLANE CONTROL LEXI (G)

Feederlane Farms

DORTHOLME CH LUSTER IN TIME John Dortmans Jr. & Certified Holsteins

DORTHOLME BREW MAGIC John Dortmans Jr.

FEEDERLANE SIDEKICK LOLLY Feederlane Farms

MOONSHINE RAMBO ANGELA Moonlight Holsteins

MOONSHINE DELTA BLOOP Moonlight Holsteins

WHITNELL CONTROL HOPPITY Huiztein Farms Inc.

GRAND CHAMPIONGLENGARRY

SLEEGERDALE POSITIVE SUNSET P Sleegerdale Farms Ltd.

ECHO GLEN DOORMAN ALOUETTE Echo Glen Farm & Andrew Den Haan

SPIERDYKE ME IN CONTROL Spierdyke Farms

ROSETONE HIGH OCTANE ROSEVALET Krestlink Holsteins

SUMMERSTIME MACADAM BAKE Summers Farms Ltd.

SUMMERSTIME DURBIN BARRY Summers Farms Ltd.

NORTHUMBERLAND

Judge –Grant Armstrong

ONTARIO

Judge –Jason Millen

OXFORD

Judge –Brian Slaughter

1st Lactation PINE GLEN SIDEKICK TASHA Pine Glen Farms

3rd Lactation

1st Lactation

MILVALEA UNIX UMBRELLA Milvalea Holsteins

MAPLEBROUGH SIDEKICK ROWENA Maplebrough Holsteins

3+ Lactations RUTI UPRIGHT GALACTICA (G) Werner & Nicolas Renggli

Progeny

1st Lactation

2nd Lactation

ELMCROFT DOORMAN ABELINE ELMCROFT DOORMAN AARON Elmcroft Holsteins

KARNVIEW ALLIGATOR STELLAR Karnview Farms

KARNVIEW FREAKY FAST Karnview Farms

3rd Lactation UP-RIDGE IMPRESSION LAVA Up-Ridge Holsteins

60,000 Kgs

1st Lactation

PERTH

Judge –Norm McNaughton

MCINTOSH BANGO McIntosh Holsteins

DOWNIEBROOK MADISON DOORMAN Downiebrook Farms Ltd.

2nd Lactation ERBCREST LAUTRUST MARCEE (HM) Erbcrest Farm

3+ Lactations

60,000 KG +

1st Lactation

2nd Lactation

PETERBOROUGH

Judge –Dan Werry

3+ Lactations

6+ Lactations

PRESCOTT

Judge –Ashley Knapton

ULMAR UNIX DAUTISTA (G) Pfister Dairy

BOERNVIEW TAMPA 4307 Boern View Farms

CROVALLEY DOORMAN ABACUS Crovalley Holsteins

RONBETH UNIX TAYLOR Ronbeth Holsteins

EMBRDALE ICE CREAM TATOO (G) Embrdale Farm

RONBETH DAMION SANDRA Ronbeth Holsteins

1st Lactation JOEL LOLA ACME (R) Michel Beaulieu

2nd Lactations BURNACRES UNIX DAKINI (G) Burnacres Farms

3+ Lactations

60,000 kgs+

Progeny of Dam

OVERDALE SIDEKICK SKYE

Overdale Farms Ltd.

REDSTONE DORCY YELLOW

Redstone Holsteins Inc.

YORELLEA MONTEREY PARADISE

YORELLEA EXPANDER QUIZZICAL

Yorellea Farms

CLAIRCREST SKYHIGH JADE Claircrest Farms

SKYLINE DEMPSEY ALECIA Skyline Holsteins

RUTI RUBELS R NEEKO Werner & Nicolas Renggli

ELMCROFT MCCUTCHEN BAMBI Elmcroft Holsteins

LOA-DE-MEDE WH DJ BRANDY

LOA-DE-MEDE WH CHIEF BRIARY Loa-De-Mede Farms Ltd. & Werrhurst Holsteins

VONBURG SIDEROAD CHOLULA C.W. Vondervoort

ROESBETT SK RISKY Roesbett Farms Ltd.

ROESBETT DOORMAN BABEALICIOUS Roesbett Farms Ltd.

DAIRYDALE ALLEGRO MITTENS Dairydale Farms Ltd.

ATHLONE MOLIERE REINDEER Athlone Farms

MAPLEVUE MARIUS PEACH Maplevue Farms

JANHOLM SILVIO DIGNITY (R) Janholm Farms

MAPLEVUE ENDURE KIRBY Maplevue Farms

EMBRDALE GOLDIE MIRAND Embrdale Farm

RONBETH UNIX NOVA Ronbeth Holsteins

CROVALLEY DOORMAN AUTRUDY Crovalley Holsteins

LIFLOC CHELIOS UNIQUA Lifloc Holsteins

BURNACRES CHIEF GLASS Burnacres Farms

OVERDALE CRUSHTIME PADDINGTON Overdale Farms Ltd.

BURNACRES DOORMAN KHLOE Burnacres Farms

WILKRIDGE ELUDE APRIL Wilkridge Farm

RAYD’ OEX UNSTOPABULL MONTANA

RAYD’ OEX AVALANCHE MONAROSE Ferme Raynaud Ltee

MILVALEA BARDO BELLA Milvalea Holsteins

ALMERSON SOLOMON WEDNESDAY Almerson Farms Ltd.

WEST PORT MIRAND BANDIT P RED Scott J. Wilson

WEST PORT AWESOME SANGRIA RED Scott J. Wilson

RUTI RUBELS ANNA BANANA RUTI CHIEF ANALESE Werner & Nicolas Renggli

GLENBERT VICTOR BALSAM Ebyholme Farms Ltd., Glenbert Holsteins, Jewelafton Holsteins, Emily Schwartzentruber

MCINTOSH LUCKY CRUSHABULL McIntosh Holsteins

BRENTRIDGE LAMBDA DIXIE Brentridge Holsteins Ltd.

MCINTOSH CHERRY BRADNICK McIntosh Holsteins

BOBMUR CONCLUSION GIFT Bobmur Farms

WEBSTAR SILVIO SUNSHINE Scenic Holsteins

DOWNIEBROOK LIANN CHIP Downiebook Farms Ltd.

NEWMORNING BOOKEM PI 2211 New Morning Holsteins

RONBETH SIDEKICK NESSA Ronbeth Holsteins

CROVALLEY SOLOMON SPOT LIGHT Crovalley Holsteins

RONBETH MILLENIUM EVA Ronbeth Holsteins

CROVALLEY AFTERSHOCK REINA Crovalley Holsteins

YORELLEA ATTRACTION DESIRE Yorellea Farms

MOUNT ELM DOORMAN JUST JOKING

Mount Elm Farms Inc.

JOEL BIG TIME AMMO Michel Beaulieu

RAYD’ OEX LAVANGUARD RHYME

Ferme Raynaud Ltee

BURNACRES JIMMY JAY BURNACRES

DURBIN RIVER Burnacres Farms

MIDDLESEX’s

3+ LACT. WINNER GRAND CHAMPIONTEMISKAMING-COCHRANE

1st Lactation WALTZ ACRE BEAU DEMPSEY Waltz Acre Farms

LOCUSTWOOD SIDEKICK PANSY Locustwood Farms

ADRIEL ALLIGATOR 50 Ebenezer Farms

PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY

Judge –Grant Armstrong

RENFREW

Judge –Ashley Knapton

2nd Lactation FAIRLEE CHIEF FINLAY Fairlee Farms

3rd Lactation FAIRLEE FRANKFURT TESSA Fairlee Farms

1st Lactation CEDARSPRING MOANA Cedar Springs Farms

2nd+ Lactation GREENLARK AMBER ROSE (G) Greenlark Farms

5th+ Lactation/ 60,000 Kgs

Progeny of Dam

SIMCOE

Judge –Collin Allardyce

ROBDOT BRADNICK RITZEY Robdot Holsteins

GOULDHAVEN DMNDBACK LISTERNIE GOULDHAVEN UNIX LILLIAN Gouldhaven Farms

1st Lactation HARVDALE DOORMAN SATIN Harvdale Holsteins

4+ Lactations HARVDALE PRINCE CHERRY Harvdale Holsteins

Dam & Daughter FARISVIEW SID ESTHER Dalton J. Faris

1st Lactation WENALLT DOC SMARTIES (R) Wenallt Holsteins

LOCUSTWOOD AIRINTAKE BUTTONS Locustwood Farms

MAYPULAYN PINKMAN M-ALI Maypulayn Farms

ROBDOT UNIX EMERY Robdot Holsteins

GOULDHAVEN IMPRESSION LOVELY (R) Gouldhaven Farms

GOULDHAVEN BRADY LANA Gouldhaven Farms

CEDARSPRING IMPRESSION WILLOW CEDARSPRING IMPRESSION MAPLE Cedar Spring Farms

CENTERFLOS UNIX MELLO Centerflos Holsteins

HAANVIEW SILVIO DOT Haanview Farms Inc.

HARVDALE CONTROL SUNSHINE Harvdale Holsteins

REDLODGE RUBICON JAMINA Redlodge Farms Inc.

WALTZ ACRE LEIGHTON LAMBDA Waltz Acre Farms

WALTZ ACRE BETTINA UNIX Waltz Acre Farms

OURQUEST LUX SASHA Ourquest Farms Inc

GOULDHAVEN CRUSHABULL ERINN Gouldhaven Farms

STRAATHOF ELUD WILLYNILLY 1678 Straathof Farms

OURQUEST SAMMY MINT OURQUEST EPIC VANILLA Ourquest Farms Inc.

RADOMERE CRUSHABULL CORAL Raymond Klein Gebbinck

ROBINS OVERWING KRUISE Robins Holsteins Limited

WALKHAVERN DEMPSEY ROXANNA Walkhavern Farms Limited

LIMBRA LIVEWIRE FLORA Huybregts Farms Ltd.

STORMONT Judge –Jonathan Rylaarsdam

TEMISKAMINGCOCHRANE

Judge –Landon Smith

2nd Lactation REDLODGE CHIP ANALIA (G) Redlodge Farms I

3rd Lactation LIMBRA CHELIOS SMURFETT LIMBRA SOLOMON WHIRLWIND Huybregts Farm

1st Lactation LORNEVA DELTA LAMBDA JESSICA Freedom Farms Inc.

2nd Lactation TRUSTMORE CRUSHTIME DESIRE (R) Pineheights Farm Ltd.

3rd Lactation LORNEVA DENVER AMELLIA (G) Freedom Farms Inc.

1st Lactation

VICTORIA

Judge –Jenn Charlton

CLARKVALLEY ACRISP LISA Clarkvalley Holsteins

2nd Lactation KAWARTHA CHIEF SUSIE Kawartha Holsteins

3rd Lactation FARROW APPLE CRISP ALLY Far-Row Holsteins

Dam/Daughter

1st Lactation

WATERLOO

Judge –Matt Walker

MILLEN PULSAR NICKI MILLEN MIRAND NADY Millen Farms

WELANE CRUSHABULL BAILEY Lewis Weber

2nd Lactation AFTERHOURS DENVER JINX Andrew J. MacLeod and Brenland Holsteins

3+ Lactations JUNEL SIDEKICK RUMMY (GRAND) Junel Holsteins

60,000 kg+

QUIET OAK MOGUL FLORIST Quiet Oak Farm

1st Lactation WEBHAVEN ALLEYOOP CRACKER Webhaven Holsteins

KNONAUDALE MUDBABY Knonaudale Farms Inc.

KNONAUDALE MUDBABY KNONAUDALE MEGASTORM Knonaudale Farms Inc.

DOUBLERIDGE ALLIGATOR NADINE Doubleridge Holsteins

LORNEVA ANGLER JACEY Freedom Farms Inc.

DOUBLERIDGE PAT LORNA (HM) Doubleridge Holsteins

FARROW DOORMAN RASPBERRY Far-Row Holsteins

SALEM ENZO FRANCISCO John W. Buckley

SCHAICREST CONTROL EMBER Robert Van Schaik

FARROW LAWMAN MAMBA

FARROW ROYAL CRUSH MALIBU Far-Row Holsteins

PERRINRIDGE CRUSHABULL AGNES Perrinridge Farms Ltd.

SAUDER HOLME UNSTOP ROSEMARY Murrel & Martha Sauder

EMVALLEY PHARO SOPHIA Emily Strenzke

CALLUMLEA MILLION CARA Callumlea Farms

RICKHAVEN LAUTRUST PARIS Rickhaven Holsteins

WENALLT SEAVER TEAGAN Wenallt Holsteins Inc.

KROLANE DOORMAN GLADYS KROLANE DOC GRUMPY Joseph J. Krol

CLA-D-MAR BREWMASTER Stewart Weber

WILLGROVE MIMOSA Willgrove Farms Inc.

GRAVELSDALE ROMAINE Renald & Simon Gravel

KAWARTHA IMPRESSION DAME Kawartha Holsteins

CLARKVALLEY KINGBOY SHENA Clarkvalley Holsteins

LEACHLAND BEEMER DIANA Colin & Karen Leach

KENCHAR GOLD CHIP GLITTER

KENCHAR ALLIGATOR GOLDEN Scott Tamlin

SAUDER HOLME DEMPSEY ALESSJA Murrel & Martha Sauder

WAYBRU AMMO P RC IDEAL P Waybru Holsteins & Springlea Holsteins

SAUDER HOLME IMPRESSION ROXETT Murrel & Martha Sauder

WAYBRU DUSK SWEETLY Waybru Holsteins

JACREST CRUSHABULL ARIANNA Jacrest Holsteins

WELLINGTON Judge –Curtis McNeil

2nd Lactation GLEN ISLAY SIDEKICK BAMBUSA (G) Andrew Den Haan & Lester and Shirley Gingrich

3+ Lactations

BRULEA FARSANO DIANA Leon Brubacher

JACREST SIDEKICK ARIZONA Jacrest Holsteins

PAULROE HIGH OCTANE CLASSIC David Martin

CANHOPE SIRWOOD BRYSTA Canhope Holsteins

GLEN ISLAY SAMMY RAY Andrew Den Haan

OXFORD’s 1st LACT. WINNER DURHAM’s 2nd LACT. WINNER GREY’s LONGTIME PRODUCTION WINNER LAMBTON’s 1ST 2-YR-OLD

HOLSTEIN BREEDERS AND ENTHUSIASTS ARE ACHIEVING GREAT THINGS ALL ACROSS OUR COUNTRY!

We are pleased to showcase the best and brightest here in our Cross-Canada Connections feature. Our goal is to bring you relevant coverage from across the country. We hope you find these connections interesting and encourage you to submit any of your own to the magazine for our next issue!

BENBIE HOLSTEINS

NAME: IAN CROSBIE

HERD SIZE: 160 MILKING HOLSTEINS

OPERATION TYPE: FREE-STALL/PACK

LOCATION: CARON, SASKATCHEWAN

What is your family’s history with Holsteins?

I am a 4th generation dairy farmer in the Caron area. Ever since my great grandfather began milking cows in the 1920’s, our family has had Holsteins on the farm. In 1988, the Benbie prefix was registered to Blaine, Neil and Elizabeth Crosbie.

What makes dairy farming in your province so unique? What are some of the challenges?

Dairy farming in Saskatchewan is definitely quite different from eastern Canada. In our area, in particular, there are very few dairy cows. It is predominantly cash cropping farms that surrounds us. Beef cattle also outnumber dairy cows in the prairies by about 20 to 1. This can be advantageous with getting a premium for drop calves during calving season and selling culls as “nurse cows” brings a nice premium as well. The climate is definitely a challenge in SK. During our harsh winters we will see temperatures drop below -30°C for prolonged stretches. Our summers can get dry as well. Currently, growing conditions are ideal for 2023, which is a nice change from the past seven years of drought.

How do you stay connected to your local dairy industry? And to the Canadian industry?

With so few dairy farms in our area, staying connected with our local industry is challenging. Attending Saskatchewan Milk producer meetings is the best way to meet with fellow provincial dairy farmers. Through social media, it has become much easier to feel connected to other farms. This goes for the Canadian industry as well. News of our industry is almost instant and word spreads quickly. I still look forward to dairy publications with stories on different farms and how they approach the business. Getting out to a few cow shows in the year is one of our favourite things to do. You get to compete with your animals against likeminded breeders who share the same passion for the Holstein cow.

What are your breeding goals?

Our breeding goals here are a balanced approach utilizing the Canadian LPI system. We put emphasis on overall GLPI and Conformation. This has led to us having a few bulls enter AI and having a former #1 Conformation cow in Canada, Benbie Lambda Ashley EX 93. Recently, we have focused a little more on polled genetics.

BENBIE HOLSTEINS CARON, SK

What genetic tools are most important in your breeding program?

Genomic testing is likely the most important tool we utilize. The test gets you your first insight into that calf’s potential. Depending on how an animal tests will heavily determine where they fit in our breeding program. Top testing females will be used in our ET and IVF program with the rest of the females being used as recipients or being bred to beef semen. We try to only produce the amount of replacement females needed to replenish our herd with our current 25 per cent cull rate.

My philosophy has shifted a little in recent years with using the genomic tests. In the past I would set an index threshold. This would determine whether a virgin heifer would be bred with dairy or beef semen. I now prefer to have the heifers calve in and be classified and on DHI before breeding them Holstein. I am also breeding more of our older, top performing cows to Holstein rather than beef as well. Genomic index is important to us, but it is not everything. When you only need about 40 replacement females a year, you want to be sure they are coming from the absolute best dams in your herd.

What cow in your barn is currently the “Heart of the Herd”?

It’s very difficult to say whether Zimmer Krusader Ava EX 96 4E or Benbie High Octane Ciara EX 95 2E deserves that title! Both cows have achieved top scores, massive milk production records, and are breeding on exceptionally well too.

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

Last year our Breeder’s Herd was nominated for All Canadian and All American. Unless someone knows of a herd before us, I believe this was the first time a breeder herd from Saskatchewan was nominated. At the 2022 Red Deer Westerner, Ciara was Grand Champion while Ava was tapped as HM Champion. An extremely proud moment for us! If you could improve on one thing in your herd/operation, what would it be?

Marketing of our genetics. I think we have bred some pretty unique and valuable cow families over the years but could definitely do a better job of promoting and selling from them.

What are your thoughts on the future of genomics?

I think genomics and purebred Holsteins could play a large role in the future of our industry. It’s precision agriculture. Profit margins are becoming smaller all the time and there is no room for poor producing animals. Genomics and data benchmarking from classification and DHI is becoming more important in my opinion. You wouldn’t apply fertilizer to your field without first soil sampling, so why would you breed a cow without knowing what her breeding potential is?

Which bulls do you feel have had the most impact on your herd over the years and today?

Over the years, Comestar Outside and Braedale Goldwyn left a lot of really good daughters. Today, Farnear Delta Lambda is leading the way. The Lambdas are our best cows in the herd and seem to be transmitting extremely well.

Being in the breeding business, what traits do you find sell the best? Which trait do you value most?

A part of our business is selling breeding bulls with the main customers being Hutterite colonies. Fat KG, overall conformation, calving ease and teat length seem to be the traits they value the most. For us, lactation persistency is becoming increasingly important. Long lactations with over 20 000kg of 4.5% BF pays for a lot of bills. It is not our goal to calve a cow in as many times as possible, but rather to let the cows produce at peak milk production for as long as possible.

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

Keeping employees happy definitely helps an operation run smoothly. Currently, three of our employees have worked at Benbie for 26, 9, and 7 years, respectively. Paying these employees a living wage, providing them with ample time off and respect on the farm seems to be what keeps them around. From a cow management perspective, I think that allowing our animals outside access for seven months of the year is huge. I’m a big supporter of getting cows off the concrete. It allows the cow the ultimate comfort and this helps her to develop into her full potential.

PHOTOS 1. Elle and Kade Crosbie make up the 5th generation at Benbie, 2. Benbie Doorman Pisces EX-93-2E-CAN (l) and Benbie Atwood Matilda EX-94-5E-CAN representing the farm, 3. The family and crew with Ciara, Grand Champion Bred & Owned National Holstein Convention. L-R, Trent Jones, Tristan Rae, Ian, Nicole, Kade and Elle Crosbie, Gary Vanderpost, Phillipa Robinson, Neil and BJ Crosbie, Nadine Crosbie, Nicolas Pelletier and Shelby MacDonald, 4. Pisces and Matilda on pasture, 5. Benbie High Octane Ciara, an EX-95-2E cow with four Superior Lactations was Grand Champion at the Westerner Dairy Showcase in 2022 and Reserve Grand at the National Holstein Convention the same year, 6. The Benbie and Robella crew at the 2022 National Holstein Convention in Saskatoon, 7. Pisces in front of the Caron, SK farm. PHOTOS 1, 2, 4 AND 7 BY ELLA WRIGHT, PHOTOS 3, 5 AND 6 BY COWSMOPOLITAN.

INVESTMENTS IN NAME FAMILIES PAYS OFF AT

INVESTMENTS IN NAME FAMILIES PAYS OFF AT Smygwatys

Apassion for high type, along with smart investments in some of the breed’s best cow families, has been the fuel behind the Smygwaty family’s growing success at Smygwaty Holsteins, Russell, ON. From humble beginnings, Terry and Holly Smygwaty, along with their three children and Terry’s parents, Raymond and Susan, have made great strides in a breeding program that is rapidly gaining respect and notice from the Holstein industry.

THE ROAD TO SUCCESS

Ray and Susan Smygwaty purchased this Russell County farm in 1981 and established a Holstein herd. They had a complete dispersal in April 1996 when son Terry thought he didn’t want to farm. While Terry went to Kemptville Agricultural College, where he met Holly, and worked summers at nearby Velthuis Farms the next two years, Ray filled the barn with calves he bought at sales. By the time these heifers were up to calving, Terry had decided he wanted to come back home and farm. “If you want to try again, we will do it,” his parents told him. The Smygwatys bought milk quota and started shipping milk again in 1998. “We focussed on buying quota and improving the farm, building a silo and a heifer barn,” recalls Terry. Susan and Holly worked off the farm to supplement the farm’s income.

The Smygwatys’ perseverance and hard work paid off! Twentyfive years later their impressive herd is 76% VG or better with 9 ME, 12 EX, 37 VG and 18 GP cows. They milk 65 cows, ship 87 kilos of milk quota, and have a BCA of 254-280-259. Their milk value per cow is $9788.

“From 2019 to the present we have bred 31 VG 2-year-olds,” say Holly and Terry proudly. In addition, they have bred or owned five Superior Production cows, 15 different Longtime Production cows, and 18 different Star Brood cows. They enjoy showing at

STORY BY BONNIE COOPER

the Carleton-Russell Club Show and Eastern Ontario/Western Quebec (EO/WQ) Championship Show.

Terry, 45, and Holly, 47, now take the lead role on this family farm. Holly is a 4-H leader, member of the EO/WQ Championship Show Committee, and helped with the farm tours during the Holstein Ontario Convention in Eastern Ontario this past February, of which Smygwatys Holsteins was a popular stop. Ray still helps with fieldwork and machinery, while Susan, retired from her government job, can always be counted on to lend a hand when they have visitors. Terry and Holly’s three children are active on the farm and in 4-H. Hailey, 17, will be attending Olds College in Alberta this fall, while Ryan is 16 and Emily 13. Terry and Holly take great pride in seeing their kids do well in 4-H, particularly showmanship where all three have won showmanship classes in Eastern Ontario. As Terry says, “You can’t buy or borrow showmanship. You’ve got to win it yourself. It is up to the person leading the calf to do a good job and make it happen. We try to teach that to our kids.” Rounding out the farm team are two long-term, part-time employees, Tom Forward and Alana McLean.

The Smygwatys own 140 acres of land, rent another 70, and grow hay and corn. In 2015, they built a new tie-stall barn. “We really focus on cow comfort,” says Holly. “We have very large stalls, a chain headrail, mats, use lots of straw, and have good lighting and ventilation. We feed a very simple TMR of haylage, corn silage, high moisture corn and protein supplements, which is top dressed with baleage.” “We also hand feed some dry hay a couple times a day to give the cows something to choose from,” adds Terry. Their calves are raised in outdoor hutches, weaned at three months, and then put into group pens in a coverall. “We want our calves to look dairy with a big rib and not super heavy, so we feed them to look that way,” says Holly.

MAKING SMART INVESTMENTS

Terry’s love for high type, deep-pedigreed Holsteins was sparked during his 4-H days. “Showmanship was always big for me,” he says. In his last years of 4-H, however, he set his sights on doing better in the conformation classes. He began partnering with friends like Marty Schep of Thunderoak Holsteins, Thunder Bay, ON, and Jason McDonald of Breeze Hill Holsteins, Winchester, ON, and buying better animals, flushing them, and then splitting up the resulting eggs and calves. “My last year of 4-H I wanted to try and do really well, so I got on a plane and flew to Nova Scotia overnight and bought a heifer. Her name was Eiklyn Jolt Harvest. My parents co-signed for me to buy her. It took me five years to pay for her,” says Terry. Harvest went on to be Honourable Mention All-Canadian 4-H Senior Calf and nominated for AllCanadian Senior Calf in 1999 after being Junior Champion at the Carleton-Russell Show, first and Champion 4-H Heifer at Ontario Summer Show, and second at the Scotiabank Hays Classic and EO/WQ Championship Show.

“Growing up I used to read the Holstein Journal,” says Terry. “I would see the All-Canadian nominations and cow family stories and dream of one day having animals of that caliber.” That inspired him to want to make investments in the genetics of some of North America’s finest cow families. “When we started in 1998 we couldn’t afford anything extra. So an expensive cow was last on the list. We had to ship milk and pay our bills,” says Terry. Partnerships with other breeders, however, soon permitted Terry to begin realizing his goal.

It is that strategy of investing and breeding from name brand cow families that has propelled the Smygwatys to the forefront today. “If you invest in something that has name recognition and a claim to fame in their pedigree, then you can breed something from it,” maintains Terry. “People know these famous cows’ names because they were good. We don’t buy embryos. We like buying a live calf or heifer that fits the ‘family mold’. If they fit the ‘family mold’ and are from proven sires and a dam that has no holes, they are the ones we want.” The Smygwatys purchase animals both privately and in sales. “Terry loves to buy animals. It is probably his hobby,” laughs Holly. “If she fits the family mold, we usually buy her,” Terry says.

Once the Smygwatys get their purchases home, they flush the special ones once and try to get a couple calves with their own prefix on the ground before the heifer even calves to get a jump on genetics and marketing opportunities. “You can multiply things really fast that way,” says Terry. “You take a nice heifer that you like and within a few months you flush her and you’re already on your way to making something that puts your name and spin on it. It’s way faster than buying embryos in my opinion. This is pretty much how we have built our herd.”

As a result of partnerships and their own purchases, the Smygwatys are now breeding and developing a herd around such respected cow families as the Roxys, Adeens, Apples, Gold Barbaras, Blexys, Bonnies and more.

Terry and Holly’s favourite cow currently is Smygwatys Soloman Daphne VG-89-3YR, a Solomon 3-year-old with 13,317 kg milk, 4.4% fat, 3.4% protein (294-339-303). Co-bred with Jason McDonald, she is a daughter of MS Dana Epic Dot-ET EX95-3E 2*, a 10-year-old Epic who completes five generations of

EX in the MS Kingstead Chief Adeen EX-94-2E-USA-DOM 11* family. Dot was Reserve Grand Champion at the EO/WQ Championship Show in 2017 and has over 67,000 kg milk lifetime to date. Due again this fall, Dot is still in great shape and is the kind of older cow you’ll find here.

Other valued purchases contributing to the present breeding program include Gold-Barbara Bette-ET EX-91, an eighth generation EX Doorman from Butz-Butler Gold Barbara-ET EX-96-3E-USA 4*, and the more recent addition, Budweisers Sdkck Bahama-ET, a 2-year-old Sidekick granddaughter of Rosiers Blexy Goldwyn EX-97-3E-USA, who they own with London Dairy Farms, London, ON. Both cows are leaving some beautiful calves that are proving to be very marketable.

PHOTOS 1. This attractive farm sign welcomes visitors and buyers to the Smygwaty family’s farm in Eastern Ontario, 2. Some of the impressive cows at Smygwatys Holsteins where 76% of the herd is currently VG or better, 3. Emily Smygwaty (at right) proudly shows Smygwatys After Party Warrior to first place in the Spring Heifer Calf class at the National Red & White Show at the Royal Winter Fair in 2022. PHOTOS 1 AND 2 BY SHEILA SUNDBORG; PHOTO 3 BY BULLVINE.

The Smygwatys like partnering with others on new acquisitions or

cattle they sell because, as Terry says, “It keeps us connected with friends and other like-minded Holstein breeders who all dream of the same kind of things.” Last year, Kingsway Farms, Hastings, ON, became partners with them in Winright Unix Trixie VG-89, a 10th generation VG/EX Unix from the Krull Broker Elegance Ex-96-3E-USA-DOM-GMD 1* family, that Terry had bought as a calf. Trixie was nominated for All-Ontario Fall 2-Year-Old in 2022 after winning her class at Ontario Summer Show. Another young cow they are excited about is Golden-Oaks Alexis-RedET, an Unstopabull backed by eight EX dams in the KHW Regiment Apple-Red-ET EX-96-4E-USA-DOM 40* family and a maternal sister to Farnear TBR Aria Adler-ET EX-96-USA. Owned with Hodglynn Holsteins, Kincardine, ON, this Spring 2-Year-Old has two young Lambda heifer calves here.

The Smygwatys do embryo transplant on about a dozen cows every year, plus a select group of virgin heifers. Picking the right bulls to mate on the right cows can be challenging, especially when you have invested in something really special, but as Terry says, “The best cow is ready to be made if you make the right mating with a really good pedigreed cow.” Goldwyn and Doorman have worked well here, and now they are going really heavy on Lambda, along with some Unix. “We typically use all proven sires and rarely use any young sires. And we don’t use any beef semen,” states Holly.

TAG SALES

In an effort to promote their herd to a wider audience, and market their surplus cattle at better than commercial prices, the Smygwatys decided to become more creative. They decided to have a Tag Sale at their farm.

Their first Autumn Select Tag Sale in 2021 averaged $4387. Their second Tag Sale in September 2022 was even more gratifying with 24 lots selling for an average of $6502. A third Tag Sale is in the works for this fall.

Topping the 2022 sale at $51,000 was Smygwatys Alligator Raindrop VG-89-USA, a recently fresh Alligator 2-year-old backed by 12 generations of VG/EX in the Glenridge Citation Roxy EX-97-4E-USA-GMD 6* family. A few weeks after the sale, Raindrop was acquired by Elmvue Farm, Johnstown, NY, for whom she became Reserve All-Canadian Fall Yearling in Milk and Honourable Mention All-American Milking Yearling after placing second at the Royal Winter Fair and fourth at World Dairy Expo. “We are still working with members of Raindrop’s family,” notes Terry. “We have five or six different branches of the Roxys in the barn. That family has always been a favourite of mine since I was a kid.”

At last year’s Royal Winter Fair, three homebred animals who sold through the Smygwatys’ 2022 Tag Sale placed in the top ten of their classes. In addition to Raindrop, a Red & White calf, Smygwatys After Party Warrior, was first Spring Calf in the National Red & White Show and 11th and first 4-H in the National Holstein Show. Co-bred with Riverdown Holsteins, Metcalfe, ON, this Warrior calf is backed by nine VG/EX dams in the Apple family and sold in the Tag Sale to Hamming Holsteins, Vernon, BC. “She was Emily’s 4-H calf so the Hammings asked if they could keep her here and have Emily show her the rest of the year before they moved her west,” relates Holly. “Emily wasn’t old enough for the TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic, so she

showed the heifer in the Royal’s open classes instead.” That move paid off with After Party finishing the season as All-Canadian Red & White Spring Heifer Calf and Honourable Mention AllOntario Red & White Junior Calf, plus Reserve All-Ontario 4-H Spring Heifer and Honourable Mention All-Canadian “Junior” –Spring Heifer for Emily. Also placing in the top ten at the Royal was Smygwatys Sidekick Amarillo, a Sidekick backed by eight EX/VG dams in the Adeen family, who was ninth Winter Heifer Calf for Harthaven Farms, Morrisburg, ON, Montdale Holsteins, Russell, ON, and the Smygwatys.

What has made their Tag Sales so successful? “We put our absolute best cows and heifers in our sales,” says Terry. “If you offer the best, there is always a market for that kind. We want people to know that they can come in here and have the opportunity to buy our best animals any day of the week. We moved a lot of animals even after our sales were over because more people realized we were willing to price and sell cattle.” “Posting good pictures and videos is also crucial to your sale,” says Holly. “If you post

PHOTOS 1. The Smygwaty family of Smygwatys Holsteins, Russell, ON. From left: Hailey, Smygwatys Holsteins is seen competing at the Eastern Ontario/Western Quebec Championship September 2022 and went on to be Reserve All-Canadian Fall Yearling in Milk and Honourable strong in the Smygwaty herd is MS Dana Epic Dot-ET EX-95-3E 2*, a fifth generation EX Adeen FISHER; ALL OTHERS SUBMITTED.

bad pictures they are there forever.” Buyer satisfaction is also important. As Terry stresses, “I am very honest and transparent with buyers because if I sell someone a bad cow once, I am never selling them another cow. We have always been that way right from the start. I tell a buyer as much as I can about an animal. I try to ensure that people are happy with what they have bought so they will come back and buy again. That is the goal. There is no benefit to sell someone a cow that is not 100 per cent.” And when a young person comes into their sales wanting to buy a certain cow they maybe can’t afford, Terry says, “We often will sell them a daughter of that cow so they can get started. This was the way I was treated when I was a young guy. There were a lot of people who helped me out like Don Carss, Peter Rylaarsdam, Glenn McDonald and my parents, so we try to do the same thing.”

CONSISTENT PATH

Terry and Holly Smygwaty are proud to have their whole family working together on the farm. They are proud of their “consistent”

herd of cows. Someday they would like to be a Master Breeder. As this enthusiastic and passionate couple looks to the future, they plan to continue on the same path they are on, aiming to breed that special cow. “We want to walk in the barn and have a consistent group of cows with really good udders who score well, milk well for a long time, and breed well,” they say. “And we want to always have really interesting pedigrees. Maintaining the level of outstanding pedigrees that we have will always be our goal.”

WE WELCOME YOUR IDEAS!

DO YOU HAVE A FARM YOU WOULD LOVE TO READ 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! EMAIL US WITH YOUR THOUGHTS: branch@ontario.holstein.ca

Hailey, Holly, Terry, Ryan, Raymond, Susan, and Emily, 2. Heifers that look dairy and have a big rib are the kind the Smygwatys like filling their barn, 3. This Junior Breeder’s Herd from Championship Show in 2022 where it was anchored by Smygwatys After Party Warrior, 4. Smygwatys Alligator Raindrop VG-89-USA sold through the Smygwatys’ Autumn Select Tag Sale in Honourable Mention All-American Milking Yearling later in the year for Elmvue Farm of New York, 5. A beautiful evening view of the barn at Smygwatys Holsteins, Russell, ON, 6. Still going deen family member who was Reserve Grand Champion at the EO/WQ Championship Show in 2017.

PHOTO 1 BY JENN STADELMANN, PHOTOS 2 AND 6 BY SHEILA SUNDBORG, PHOTO 4 BY CYBIL

NATIONAL HOLSTEIN CONVENTION 2023

HHolstein Canada celebrated 140 years of National AGM’s this year! Montreal played host to this year’s National Convention, themed ‘A Legendary Experience’ and over 285 people attended in person. The 2023 Convention took place from April 12-15 at the Sheraton Center and we’re pleased to showcase some highlights and accomplishments of Ontario Breeders who were recognized here. Congratulations to these winners and thank you to everyone who organized this memorable event!

DAY 1 – Visitors took in the Quebec Spring Show in Victoriaville and later attended a Habs game at the Bell Centre where they faced the Boston Bruins.

DAY 2 – Farm Tours! Visitors had the opportunity to take in some of the top managed herds in the Quebec South-West region.

DAY 3 – The 140th anniversary of Holstein Canada’s Annual General Meeting took place, followed by the much-anticipated Master Breeder Gala Evening!

RESOLUTIONS

Two Resolutions were brought to the table by Holstein Ontario, on behalf of Ontario breeders. The results were as follows:

WEB SERVICES – LIST Whereas, the number and percent of animals genomically tested in Canadian Holsteins is low;

Whereas, Holstein Canada members need to see more value in having their animals genomically tested;

Whereas, young animals, especially heifers, often have the highest genetic merit and the most revenue generating potential in a herd

Whereas, Holstein Canada members doing genomic testing need Holstein Canada to provide more value for their animals, similar to what is done for members whose animals are show winners; and

Whereas, potential domestic and foreign buyers need to have a source for being aware of top genetic Canadian Holstein animals.

Be it resolved, Holstein Ontario requests that Holstein Canada allocate resources in 2023 to develop a service whereby at the time of registration and genomic testing of animals (females and males) a list be created and published monthly, on its website, for at least the top 1% of tested animal listing by LPI, Pro$ and other traits that Holstein Canada sees as key to the future success of Canadian Holsteins.

For: 29 Against: 21 CARRIED.

PEDIGREES – BREEDERS’ CUP Whereas, Breeders’ Cups are becoming increasingly popular and help to promote the Holstein breed and encourage social interaction of members;

Whereas, Breeders’ Cups are judged by official judges; Whereas, County shows are increasingly struggling with relevancy and sustainability.

Be it resolved, that the top two (2) cows of each Breeders’ Cup Competition (as decided by the judge) be recognized on their pedigrees. This should be possible regardless of each County’s individual rules and classes as long as the judge chooses the top two (2) at the end of the day.

For: 36 Against: 45 DEFEATED.

PHOTOS 1. From l to r, Terry Charlton, Robert Velthuis and Mitch Kieffer proudly display their new Master Breeder Shields while sporting the Habs jerseys awarded to each Master Breeder family, 2. Doug Peart (l) and Ben Cuthbert reveal this year’s Cow of the Year, Comestar Lamadona Doorman EX-94-2E-CAN 22*, 3. The beautiful cows on display during tours, 4. Table decor for the Master Breeder gala. PHOTOS SUBMITTED.

ONTARIO’S MASTER BREEDERS

“I had such a fantastic time at the conference and got to connect with other passionate delegates and farmers in the industry. We saw some great cattle at the show and were fortunate to meet the Master Breeder Shield winners at the gala. I’m grateful for the opportunity!

- EMILY STRENZKE, 2023 DELEGATE

BELMORAL TEESWATER

CHRISTHILL TARA

ELM BEND BRANTFORD

BREEZY BRUSSELS

HAVENVALLEY WALLENSTEIN

SPRUCE LAWN DRAYTON

VRIESDALE MOUNTAIN

R J F CORBYVILLE

YORELLEA ST. EUGENE

PHOTOS 1. The Young Leaders at Ferme Estermann after a visit and a workshop in partnership with ST Genetics, 2. Holstein Canada Classifiers Alex McKay and Alex Laliberte present a Classification workshop during the visit to Ferme Montcalm & Freres, 3. Ontario was wellrepresented at this year’s conference. From l to r: Emma Finch, Emily Strenzke, Alex McKay, Joel Hartman, Kirstan Bennett and Alex Dolson, 4. The Young Leaders during a panel with 2022 Master Breeders Ferme Jeanlu, Ferme Pellerat, and Belmoral Farms. PHOTOS BY MURILO CARVALHO.

2022 CENTURY OF HOLSTEIN AWARD WINNERS

Ontario’s Recipients

Introduced in 2005, the Century of Holstein award recognizes the dedication and contribution of Holstein families through their long-standing membership with Holstein Canada. If a family’s relationship with the Association can be traced to 100 years of active, continuous membership, then it is eligible for this distinction.

The Descendants of T.O. Dolson

In 1919 Thomas Oliver, better known as T.O., married Alma McClure and took out a membership with the Holstein Association. In 1924 their son Frank was born, and the family embarked on an amazing Holstein adventure.

T.O. was one of the original directors of the Peel Holstein Club and he spent 10 years as a board member of Holstein Canada. His son, Frank’s enthusiasm was evident from an early age and when he was 20 years old, he spent 11 days in freight cars delivering Canadian cattle to California. In the years that followed, T.O. and Frank would develop their own contracts to export cattle to the U.S.A. and Mexico.

In 1949, Frank married Georgina Eccles and they were blessed with three children: Mary, Steve, and Tom. Frank and Georgina worked with T.O. for the next decade. They kept the export business going while being very committed to their local and regional 4-H programs and community events.

Unfortunately, in 1969, at the age of 47, Frank was diagnosed with Leukemia and the decision was made to disperse the Fradol herd. Sadly, Frank passed away the night before the dispersal. Georgina showed resiliency, making the decision to keep the farm and rent out the land for the next 10 years.

ACHIEVEMENTS –

Darevean Eva GP 8* (a huge number in the 1950s) was Georgina’s favourite cow. Eva was the dam of a three-time Royal Winter Fair Grand Champion, Sylvia Pabst Texal, as well as the herd sire, Fradol Supreme Max.

In 1979, sons Steve and Tom re-established the Fradol milking herd and by that fall they were back in the show ring.

In 1981, Steve married Dr. Karen Galbraith and Tom married Donna Stewart. By 1985, Tom and Donna were the sole owners of the Fradol herd, which later dispersed in 2010.

In 1982, Steve and Karen established Legacy Holsteins in Perth County in a tie-stall operation which they converted into a modern two-robot

facility. In 2016, Steve and Karen welcomed Sally and Geoff McMullen into the business.

In 2006 Steve and Karen were awarded a Master Breeder Shield. Legacy Holsteins was recently recognized by Lactanet as one of the Best Managed Herds in Canada.

Steve Dolson is also a past recipient of the Holstein Canada’s Certificate of Recognition.

Background courtesy of Doug Peart, Holstein Canada

PHOTOS 1. The Fradol barn in 1855, 2. The Dolson family was recognized during Holstein Canada’s National Convention in Montreal, 3. Steve Dolson received a Certificate of Recognition from Holstein Canada in 2017, 4. Steve and Karen Dolson with Sally and Geoff McMullen, 5. 14-year-old Frank Dolson at the Brampton Fair, 6. Tom and Steve Dolson receiving an award in 1980. PHOTO 2 BY BRUCE SARGENT. ALL OTHERS SUBMITTED.

The Descendants of A.H. Poole

In 1922 A. H. Harold Poole became a member of the Holstein Association. Two years later, he and his wife were blessed with a daughter, Lois. Although Lois (98) is no longer doing day-today chores at Maple-Ain, she is still very interested in the farm happenings and likes to keep up to date on the latest classification results.

Lois married Donald Hunter, whose family milked Milking Shorthorns. In 1958 when her dad became ill, she and Donald did chores at both family farms. This allowed Donald an opportunity to see the increased benefits of milking Holsteins. In 1959 when the Poole herd dispersed, the couple purchased 10 Holsteins and became members of the Holstein Association.

In 1977 Lois’s son, Gerald, and his wife Joanne, became partners and together they formed Maple-Ain Holsteins. Today their son and daughter-in-law, Hugh and Arlene Hunter, and their four children farm 700 acres at Smith Falls, Ont. where they milk 80 cows, many tracing back to the original Poole herd. Seven Generations have farmed the Hunter homestead through the decades and the Hunter family is proud but humbled by their rich history.

ACHIEVEMENTS –

Maple-Ain has won three Master Breeders Shields (’91 & ’97 and 2010).

Maple-Ain Matinee Dorie became Canada’s first 6E cow. Stablemate

Maple-Ain Mattador Evelyn and Dorie alternated being Canada’s first 7E, 8E, 9E cows and Evelyn became Canada’s first ever 10E cow.

Maple-Ain has been Premier Breeder and Premier Exhibitor at the Leeds County Holstein Show over 30 times.

The Descendants of William McGriskin

William McGriskin Sr. was the first generation of his family to be born in Canada. William Sr. and his son William Jr. farmed together in Agincourt, Ontario which is now under the city of Toronto. In 1922 they milked 25 cows and both joined the Holstein Association.

Six of William Jr. and his wife Lena’s 11 children took out a membership with the Holstein Association: Kawartha 1954, Hazelwood 1954, Misty River 1956, Mullmc 1966, Riskin 1973, and Shawnc 1982. Today, seven active 5th generation Holstein Canada members trace back to the 1922 start of William McGriskin: Ian McFadden, Clovermist; Joel McGriskin, Schaikin; Keegan McGriskin, Riskan; Kevin McGriskin, Kentville; Bernie McMorrow, Bernalli; David McMorrow, Kawartha; Dan Werry, Loka, and 6th generation, Joel McFadden, Clovermist

ACHIEVEMENTS –

Collette McFadden was the first of seven McGriskin descendants to become a Holstein Canada Official Judge.

Mike McGriskin was co-founder of the Ontario Autumn Opportunity Championship Show and a Curtis Clark Award winner. 4-H, Jr. Farmers, Fair boards, Holstein Clubs are just a few of the agricultural organizations that the McGriskins have volunteered with.

Two big-time McGriskin show cows, Maryann Snowflake EX,1* and Pluto Sovereign Gertie EX,7*, were purchased by Romandale and had a significant impact on the their breeding program.

The McGriskin family has achieved nine Master Breeder shields through various family members, prefixes and lineages: The McGriskin Branches (Hazelwood in ’76 and ’84, Kentville in ’94, Marksmemory in ’91 and Riskinbrook in 2014); the McMorrow Branches (Kawartha in ’91, Emilane in 2008, Kawartha in 2012); and the McFadden Branches (Hazelholme in 2003).

PHOTOS 1. Don Hunter with grandchildren Hugh (l) and Shannon at the Lombardy fair in the mid 80’s, 2. Lois and Don, displaying some of their show winnings in the 70’s, 3. The Poole family, from l to r, T. Allan, A. Harold, and Lois Poole. Seated is Lois’s mother, Mabel Poole. 4. Joanne, Gerald, Lois, Hugh and Arlene Hunter, were recognized at this year’s convention, 5. A candid shot from 1997, when two Maple-Ain cows appeared on the cover of the Holstein Journal. From l to r, Don, Hugh with Maple-Ain Mattador Evelyn EX-10E, Katie (in front), Laurie, Shannon and Lois, 6. Hugh with his kids, l to r, Foster, Connal, Duncan and Maryn. PHOTO

BY BRUCE SARGENT. ALL OTHERS SUBMITTED.

PHOTOS 1. B.T. McMorrow and Jody in 1955, 2. Descendants of the McGriskin family were recognized during Holstein Canada’s National Convention in Montreal, 3. William McGriskin Sr., 4. William McGriskin Jr. and Lena Canning with their 11 children, 5. Pluto Sovereign Gertie, 6. The McGriskin family has achieved a total of nine Master Breeder Shields to date; seven are proudly on display here.

PHOTO 2 BY BRUCE SARGENT. ALL OTHERS SUBMITTED.

Cameron & Grant Barkey – Passion, Drive and a Future in Farming

WWhen you chat with brothers Cameron and Grant Barkey, you get the immediate sense that they are “good kids.” They know their cows, understand the value of hard work, and come across as passionate, driven, adventurous and well-spoken individuals. And after you spend more than an hour with them, you know one thing to be true: wherever they go and whatever they do, they have a bright future ahead of them!

Growing up at Altona Lea Farms in Durham County, Cameron and Grant (now 21 and 19, respectively) loved nothing more than to make the half-mile trek down the road to the farm and spend the day at the farm, puttering in the garden with Grandma Barkey, playing in the pool, or generally just “getting in the way.” “We were always around!” Cameron says. It wasn’t until they were a little bit older that they started to help in the barn, first by feeding calves, and later by cleaning out stalls and pitching in wherever they could help. Fast-forward several years to today and their duties have expanded to feeding TMR to cows and heifers, feeding calves, bedding up, general cow care and handling and helping with field work. “We have an older barn, so it’s a lot of labour,” says Grant. Fortunately, there are a lot of hands to help with that work.

Cameron and Grant, along with their brothers, Ian (16) and Reid (14) help their parents Glenn and Karen Barkey on the farm. Their aunt and uncle, Carolyn and Frazer Puterbough, are partners in the operation and their three sons, Cooper (17), Callum (15) and Sawyer (8) are an integral part of this four-time Master Breeder herd’s daily operation. The families are building on the foundation laid by the late Frank Barkey and Donna Barkey, who moved to the current farm in Blackstock from Altona in 1978. Frank started the herd with

two purebred Holsteins and would be proud of Altona Lea’s herd classification today, which sits at 11 ME, 9 EX, 34 VG and 12 GP.

Community involvement has always been important to the Barkey family and 4-H is just one of the many ways they’ve given back over the years. With Glenn and Karen as long-time leaders of the Dairy Judging Club, Cameron and Grant have unofficially been part of 4-H before they were even old enough to join, tagging along to meetings and soaking up more cow knowledge than they knew what to do with. In addition to Judging, Dairy, and Clipping, Cameron has completed clubs in Beef, Sheep, Plowing, Derby and Bike. Grant has enjoyed clubs in Dairy, Beef and Sheep, but also in Bike, Woodworking, Dodge Ball and Pie Making.

4-H has brought a myriad of victories and highlights for both Cameron and Grant in the time they’ve been involved. Topping Cameron’s list is his illustrious 2013 year with 4-H calf, Altona Lea Stanleycup Gretzky. She pulled out all the stops for him that year, winning 1st Intermediate Calf at Autumn Opportunity and capturing Reserve Junior Champion at Durham County, before going on to place at the top of her class in the open show at the Royal for her new owners Chris Hill, Tim and Sharyn Abott and Michael Heath. Gretzky was also named 2013 All-Ontario and All-Canadian Intermediate Calf.

Grant’s fondest memories stem from the various 4-H Camps he has attended and an exchange he went on in 2019. He was fortunate to meet people from across Ontario and Canada through these opportunities, many of whom he considers some of his closest friends today. He’s also had some success with past 4-H calves including Altona Lea Cinderdoor Annie, who placed 14 at the Classic, and

PHOTOS 1. The Barkeys are proud of their family’s rich farming history. They are pictured here, after their 2020 Master Breeder win, l to r (b) Grant, Glenn and Cameron; (f) Reid, Karen and Ian., 2. Grant and Cameron with Altona Lea Stanleycup Gretzky, who was All-Ontario and All-Canadian Intermediate Calf in 2013, 3. Altona Lea Cinderdoor Annie was 1st place Sept calf at Durham County in 2019, 4. Glenn and Cameron share a proud moment in the show ring during the 2018 Durham County Show, 5. Grant and Cameron have been tagging along to shows with their dad, Glenn, for as long as they can remember. PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Sunnylodge Diamondback Jazzy, his 2022 project that he purchased at Winright’s Running for Red sale. Jazzy was 14th Summer Yearling at the Classic in November and is just fresh with an Armada heifer. Spurred by their interest in the Sheep Club, the brothers decided to purchase 10 ewes together in 2021. “We had shown lambs together and kind of liked them and thought we should try them out,” says Grant. So far, they’ve had two crops of lambs, which they’ve raised for a year and then direct marketed to friends and family or sold to the local sale barn. Though Cameron and Grant admit it hasn’t been an overly lucrative endeavour to date, they’ve learned a lot and are already making the necessary adjustments. “This year, instead of waiting too long, they went to sale barn as soon as they were ready,” Grant explains. “For our next crop,” Cameron adds, “we plan to sell more direct. We already sell chickens and beef through the farm, so this could be a nice addition.” Fortunately, their parents have happily encouraged the new venture, allowing them some space in the dry cow barn to raise the animals. “Mom really likes it,” Cameron says. “When I lived away from home and Grant was at school, she took care of them.”

The support the boys receive from their parents has long been the “secret sauce” to their success and the force behind their hard work. “Dad taught us a ton,” Grant says. “He got us interested [in good cows] and supported us in going to shows.” Cameron agrees, recalling one clear example of his parents’ next-level commitment. “I can remember us being on a family camping trip when I was 14. We got up on the second-last day at 5 a.m. and drove two hours so they could drop me off at a farm to clip for the week!”

Glenn and Karen were also very receptive to the idea of Cameron

gaining some experience away from home after he graduated from Ridgetown. “Blondin was at the top of my list,” Cameron shares. “They have such a high level of show cows and genetics.” Cameron’s friend and fellow Durham County dairy enthusiast Brent Sikma had worked at Ferme Blondin for a few years and helped Cameron connect the dots. During his 10-month stint at the St. Placide farm, Cameron’s main duties included morning and evening milkings and cow care and handling and helping at shows. He rotated through various roles, picking up knowledge and expertise as he went, and even learned some French along the way! “Kim and Simon were really good about letting me do a variety of different things so I could see the whole operation and learn about it,” he says.

Cameron returned home with lots of new ideas to implement at Altona Lea. His desire to master the art of clipping also paid off and he has quickly become an in-demand fitter, both for shows and classification visits. In April, he spent four consecutive weeks clipping at shows in New York, Quebec, Ontario and Wisconsin. He was at home in May, helping with planting and hay, before heading to the Alberta Dairy Congress in June. Grant, too, has caught the clipping bug, though at the moment, he has to work around his school commitment. He’s looking forward to several opportunities to showcase his skills at various county and regional shows.

Grant attends the University of Guelph where he is entering his second year of the Animal Science program. He is actively involved in extra-curricular life at school, participating in intramural hockey, the OAC Winter Games and and serving as the Class of ’26 Representative Class on the OAC’s Student Federation. This year, he was thrilled to help run the University’s College Royal Sale. “It had been 25 years since it had run. It was a really cool experience, and we were super happy with the results!”

When they have some time off, Cameron and Grant enjoy spending it outside at the pond their grandpa Barkey dug out 40 years ago. They’ll swim for the day, hang out on the beach, have a fire and can still be home for chores at night. The same pond doubles as a hockey rink in the winter and serves as a local meeting spot for friends, cousins and neighbours.

As for the future, nothing is set in stone. Grant would eventually love to milk cows, but the focus now is really on the short term and his next three years at school. After that, he’d love to work on a farm abroad. “I’m thinking of Australia,” he says.

Cameron hopes to farm in some capacity, either by taking over at home or expanding to a new place. He’s also realistic and knows that with so many family members interested in the farm, expansion and cow marketability are going to play a big role going forward. “For a long time, we’ve been a closed herd. We’re really proud of our generations of Excellent family members. Recently we’ve been buying more. It’s interesting to see what families are performing well.” Cameron is highly interested in genetics and remembers looking forward to proof day since he was eight years old. Though Glenn and Frazer ultimately have the final say, they do listen to input from the boys. Grant and Cameron own a few cows together and they enjoy making the breeding selections for those heifers as well as some of their past 4-H calves.

Meanwhile at Altona Lea, plans for a new free-stall barn are also in the works. Cameron and Grant anticipate a new facility would likely feature a parlour instead of robots, mostly because, they explain, they all love to milk cows. Regardless of what the future may bring, Cameron and Grant know they’ve had a special childhood growing up here and look forward to continuing a proud legacy of farming. “It’s been awesome,” they say. “We wouldn’t want to do anything else.”

6. Cameron, 2nd from r, with the Blondin crew and Glenvue Lumineer Bea after she was Grand Champion for Blondin at Trois-Rivieres in 2021. 7. The Barkey and Puterbough families made up over half of Durham East’s 2022 Classic Team! In back, from l to r: Reid Barkey, Callum Puterbough, Cooper Puterbough, Brooke Benschop and Miranda Gilroy. Front, l to r: Rylan Aitken, Cameron Barkey and Grant Barkey. PHOTO 6 SUBMITTED, PHOTO 7 BY ELLA WRIGHT.

AMY THOM ROCKY RAPIDS HOLSTEINS, ALMONTE

NUMBER OF COWS: 71 (40 MILKING) IN A TIE-STALL, MILKING 3X

FARM SIZE: 186 ACRES OWNED & 1500 RENTED

CROPS GROWN: WHEAT, CORN, SOYBEANS AND HAY

Amy and her husband Wes own and operate Rocky Rapids Farms, which they officially took over from his parents, Bert and Bev Thom, in 2018. The farm is also home to a beef herd and cash crop operation, as well as a custom cropping business. The couple has implemented many upgrades since becoming involved, including installing larger water lines, memory foam mattresses, green flex dividers and improving the lighting and ventilation. Amy studied at Lakeland College in Vermillion, AB, and has used her learnings to initiate several changes on the farm including better health procotols, improved record keeping and closer cow monitoring through a system called Cattle Scan. She’s proud of her contributions to the overall health of the herd and says that moving calves to hutches has virtually eliminated pneumonia in the calves. Single-use needles, accessible records and Cattle Scan boluses have allowed the Thoms to intervene faster with a sick cow and provide effective treatment to ensure a healthy lactation.

Future plans for the Thoms include having 100 per cent of the Holstein calves born on the farm to be polled, a goal which they are currently close to achieving. The less stress they can put on their calves, Amy says, ultimately leads to a healthier and more productive animal down the road. Within the next five years, Amy and Wes hope to be milking in a new robot composting pack barn, with everything under one roof. They have been buying quota for the past several years to prepare for the build. In the longer term, once all four kids are in school, Amy hopes she has more time to become involved in the cropping side of the business. Currently known as the “cow girl,” she finds working in the barn day-to-day very satisfying as it allows her to maintain a set schedule with the kids, without having to factor in the weather.

Amy is a member of the Lanark Holstein Club and enjoys organizing the club’s heifer show each year at the Almonte Fair. She loves opening their barn to the public and giving tours, showing them what it is like to milk a cow. Public perception is the biggest challenge facing the industry today, she believes, and transparency is key. Amy looks forward to becoming involved in 4-H when her kids are older.

DIRK BOUSFIELD WINDVIEW HOLSTEINS, JARVIS

NUMBER OF COWS: 78 (48 MILKING) IN A TIE-STALL, MILKING 2X

FARM SIZE: 250 ACRES OWNED & 20 RENTED

CROPS GROWN: HAY, CORN, WHEAT, STRAW AND SOYBEANS

Dirk farms in partnership with Frank Dykstra of Dykemavale on a registered dairy farm in Jarvis, Ont. Thirty-six cows owned under his Windview prefix are classified 11 EX, 13 VG and 7 GP.

Dirk attended Ridgetown College in 2016. He then worked for Ralph Rutherford at Dougford Holsteins in Selkirk for four years, contributing the necessary sweat equity to begin acquiring cows to call his own. Dirk is grateful for the opportunity he had to learn from Ralph and for the cows originating from the Dougford herd that are now part of his own herd. He is also thankful for the corporation he and Frank formed in 2020. Since that time, Dirk has focused his energy on the farm’s feeding program and is pleased with the results. They feed their milking cows TMR and offer free choice hay, while dry and close-up cows are on a X-Zelit dry cow program. Heifers receive a pellet with mineral and free choice hay or baleage and calves get grower pellet and whole milk, in addition to free choice hay and water. Dirk takes pride in the balance he has been able to achieve in his cows, with high-type cows that can produce being the kind of cows he likes to breed.

Dirk believes in Canada’s quota system and appreciates the equal playing field that enables his modest-sized herd to bid on quota. As he continues to acquire quota when he can, he plans to maximize stall space in the current tie-stall, achieving the most Kgs per stall possible, then eventually swing cows for the coming five years. He’s hopeful that at the 10-year mark, the farm will be at the point where they have maxed out their dairy facility and plans for a new barn can begin to take shape. Right now, there is space for 42 milking cows. Heifers are raised on a bedding pack and calves are individually housed until they reach one month of age when they are then moved to group housing.

Dirk is a director on his local Holstein club. In February, he was thrilled to have bred his first Excellent cow under his Windview prefix, Windview Kingboy Lola. Dirk knows he wouldn’t be where he is today if it wasn’t for those who have helped him over the years. Constant support from his parents, as well as help and cow knowledge from his dad, have allowed him to succeed in the industry he loves.

KENZIE WRIGHT WRIDAIR FARMS, HARROW

NUMBER OF COWS: 95 (45 MILKING) IN A TIE-STALL, MILKING 2X

FARM SIZE: 180 ACRES OWNED & 127 RENTED

CROPS GROWN: HAY, CORN, WHEAT, AND SOYBEANS

Kenzie is a fourth-generation dairy farmer at Wridair Farms where she and her family milk 45 in a tie-stall barn. Their LPI of 2786 placed them in the top 20 herds for LPI in Ontario for herds 20-50 cows in 2022. The farm is home to three prefixes: Wridair, Merry Meadows and Creek-Road.

In addition to a full-time teaching job, Kenzie assists in the day-today farming and milking routine. As the head of herd health, she oversees the health and treatment of each animal from vaccinations to illnesses. Kenzie also runs the calf program and looks after the breeding on the farm. With Wridair being the most southern farm in Canada, the weather can be very unpredictable and extreme, which Kenzie found drastically affected their calves’ health and growth. In collaboration with their vets and feed reps, she has spent the last few years developing a feeding program that provides each calf with the fundamentals to grow and thrive in their environment. Since implementing the new program, calves has been staying healthier from birth through to calving age.

Within the next five years, Kenzie hopes to improve their facilities to increase cow comfort as well as to accommodate the changing demands of the industry. In the longer term, she hopes to continue working on the farm’s genetics, and gain respect amongst the Holstein industry with the quality of cattle they breed. One of the tools the family is using to reach this goal is AAA breeding. The cows Kenzie is currently most excited about are Merry Meadows House Goldie, an 86-point 2-year-old and her maternal sister, Merry Meadows Luster Gabby, an Intermediate Yearling due to calve this December.

After being involved in the 4-H dairy club her entire childhood, Kenzie became a leader in 2020. Coming from a county with only seven producers, being exposed to the industry is not as common. She is eternally grateful to her parents and mentors for encouraging her and traveling with her to different shows and events and opening her eyes to the industry both in Canada and the United States. As a leader, she hopes she can pass along the same experiences to the next generation and continue to foster the love of the industry in her county.

MITCH KIEFFER BELMORAL FARMS, TEESWATER

NUMBER OF COWS: 195 (80 MILKING) IN A FREE-STALL WITH ROBOTS

FARM SIZE: 200 ACRES OWNED & 100 RENTED

CROPS GROWN: ALFALFA, CORN, WHEAT AND COVER CROPS

Mitch and his family are milking 80 cows in a newly built sandbedded free-stall robot barn they moved into in January 2022. Though the learning curve has been steeper than anticipated, the Kieffers have adjusted their management style to bring the herd’s output back to where they would like. “Everyone always told us that after a move like this, it’s a lot easier to fall than to climb up,” Mitch says.

Mitch played a major role in the planning and construction of the new facility and is proud of the changes he has implemented at Belmoral since becoming involved full-time in 2011. Since then, he has been doing the farm’s breeding and making breeding decisions. Such pairings have contributed to Belmoral winning its second Master Breeder shield last year, as well as several All American, All Canadian and All Ontario nominations. His favourite cow in the herd today is Belmoral Impression Andreescu, an 87-point 3-yearold for whom he has high hopes.

In the short term, Mitch and his family plan to continue their focus on excelling in the new barn and identifying ways to increase production and efficiency. Within the next five years, he’d like to make some minor upgrades to his equipment, while keeping his focus on functional, high-producing cows with strong conformation. Paying down some debt incurred during the building of their new barn will also be a priority and will help position the farm to take advantage of future opportunities. In the longer term, Mitch plans to expand Belmoral’s land base and quota holdings to position the farm for the future.

Mitch is active in his community, having acted as a 4-H leader for 10 years. He volunteers his time for events such as Belmore’s Wing Night and Maple Syrup Festival and can be found coaching minor hockey in the winter and baseball in the summer. Mitch has been a member of his local Holstein club for the past eight years and has served as the club’s president for two of those years. Mitch is honoured to be joining his fellow award winners out West this fall.

Established in 1980, the competition recognizes young people aged 25-35 who are actively involved in the operation of a dairy farm, and who have demonstrated leadership and taken an active role in their communities. Until 2020, winners traveled to Madison to take in World Dairy Expo. Following the success of last year’s trip to the Westerner Dairy Showcase in Red Deer, AB, this year’s group will also be making the trip West in October. Watch for their report in a future issue of The Link!

Top Classifying Herds in Ontario

Holstein Canada calculated the average final score of first lactation Holsteins classified in 2022 by herd size and province. Based on the number of female Holstein registrations for the year, the herds were then categorized into seven groups according to Master Breeder Program parameters. We have featured the top 20 Ontario herds in each category. Where do you stack up?

AVERAGE FIRST LACTATION SCORES IN 2022 BY HOLSTEIN REGISTRATIONS (7+), WITH OVER 5 CLASSIFIED

ontario holstein

EDITOR SOUGHT

DO YOU LOVE TO WRITE? DO YOU HAVE A SHARP EYE FOR DETAIL AND AN INTEREST OR BACKGROUND IN AGRICULTURE?

We are looking for someone to serve as the Editor of our Link magazine, published quarterly and mailed to all registered Holstein breeders across the province!

If you think you have what it takes, or are interested in learning more about the position, please reach out to Holstein Ontario’s GM, Pam Charlton (pam.charlton@ontario.holstein.ca)

More details to follow soon on our social media!

20

WE

SAME

Buying all types and breeds of dairy cattle

ERIC SALONEN 519-803-3722 BENJAMIN FAULKNER 519-829-9157

ATTENTION

HOLSTEIN HISTORIANS!

I have over 850 copies of backdated Holstein World magazines, looking for a new home! Copies dating from 1932-1975, with a few gaps. The perfect collection for your summer reading pleasure! If interested in this lot, please contact Mauretta Morris (519-687-2530 or jmorauct@wavedirect.net). A catalogued chart is also available.

http://barngirls.smugmug.com

pursuit ofExcellence

A NEW EXCELLENT COW OR A VERY GOOD TWO-YEAR-OLD IS A BREEDING ACCOMPLISHMENT. These cows are the highlight of any herd visit and a source of pride for their breeders and owners. From March through to the end of May, there were 711 1st time Excellent cows and 935 Very Good 2-year-olds classified in Ontario. Those classifying EX-91 and above and VG-87 and above are listed here - a complete list can be found under the Awards-Lists tab at www.holstein.ca. Congratulations to the owners and breeders of these fine animals

MARCH - MAY EX’S

BEBOSDALE MISTY OCTANE EX-93

B osdale Farms Inc., C ambridge

HOLTBYHOLME MANDY GRACIOUS EX-93

H oltbyholme H olsteins, Port Perry

LEACHLAND BEEMER DIANA EX-93

C olin & K aren L each, L indsay

LOA-DE-MEDE EMILIO POSCH EX-93

L oa-de-mede Farms L td., O shawa

PATIENCE ACRISP DARE ME EX-93

Patience H olsteins L td., Mildmay

PAULROE UNIX CHAMPAIN EX-93

D avid M artin, A rthur

SAUDER HOLME IMPRESSION ROXETT EX-93

M urrel & M artha S auder, Wallenstein

UNIQUE DEMPSEY CHARDONNAY EX-93

Jim P hoenix, C annington

J oel P hoenix, C annington

Vale-O-Skene H olsteins, L ittle B ritain

UP-RIDGE IMPRESSION LAVA EX-93

U p-Ridge H olsteins, E mbro

WEST PORT RUBI-ASP ROCKI EX-93

S cott J W ilson, Port Perry

BECKHOLM ATWOOD JHOANE EX-92

B eckholm H olsteins, S underland

BELLWIN FUEL ROSA EX-92

E ric & S arah M artin, Elora

BOSDALE KINGBOY BARBRA 1024 EX-92

B osdale Farms Inc., C ambridge

BRASHOME RAMDAM ALFALFA EX-92

B rashome Farms, G ananoque

BRENTRIDGE LAMBDA DIXIE EX-92

B rentridge H olsteins L td., Ingersoll

CAMFLAT DM JOY TO THE WORLD EX-92

CAMFLAT IPAD ELLIE EX-92

C amflat H olsteins, Woodville

CANHOPE SOLOMON LAILA EX-92

C anhope H olsteins, Palmerston

CEDARPATCH MARIO GRACIOUS EX-92

C edarpatch H olsteins, Mildmay

CHRISTHILL AMMO ALIVIA EX-92

C hristhill Farms, Tara

CROVALLEY DOUGLAS RAVIOLI EX-92

C rovalley H olsteins, Hastings

DOWNIEBROOK LIANN CHIP EX-92

D owniebrook Farms L td., St. Pauls

EASTEDGE JOSUPER MIRANDA 526 EX-92

EASTEDGE SILVER 450 EX-92

EASTEDGE SILVER 511 EX-92

E ast Edge H olsteins, S pringfield

ELM BEND GALECEY EX-92

Elm B end H olsteins, B rantford

GLENLODGE RAMBO BARBIE EX-92

D onald & J ohn S impson, Palmerston

Mintoglen Farms L td., Palmerston

GLENVUE CONTROL AMBER EX-92

D appledale Holsteins, G reenbank

J oel P hoenix, C annington

HOLTBYHOLME MISS COCO EX-92

H oltbyholme H olsteins, Port Perry

JOLIBOIS LIBERTAD OCTADEEN EX-92

Ronald G randy, O shawa

KENCHAR DOORMAN SNOWFLAKE EX-92

S cott Tamlin, Woodville

KENTVILLE D RAINBOW EX-92

Kentville H olsteins, M elancthon

KINGSWAY SIDEKICK A TOUCHDOWN EX-92

KINGSWAY UNIX ACADEMIA EX-92

K ingsway Farms Inc., Hastings

LEACHLAND SLATER DARLA EX-92

C olin & K aren L each, L indsay

MAIFIELD HIGH OCTANE ZINNIA EX-92

MAIFIELD SOLOMON PORTIA EX-92

A lmet Farms L td., Haydon

MAPLEBROUGH UNIX FAIRLEY EX-92

M aplebrough H olsteins, U xbridge

MAPLEKEYS DOORMAN CHARITY EX-92

M aplekeys Farms, Aylmer

MCINTOSH CATHERINE CASPER EX-92

M cIntosh H olsteins, E mbro

MIDDLESON UNIX TARA EX-92

Wesley A ndrews, C annington

RAIVUE TAKEOFF JANNAY EX-92

Raivue Farms L td., S underland

ROESBETT DOORMAN BABEALICIOUS EX-92

Roesbett Farms L td., L akeside

RUTI CHIEF AMBER EX-92

RUTI CHIEF SWEET PEA EX-92

Werner & Nicolas Renggli, S eagrave

SCHAICREST SUPERPOWER SEXY EX-92

Robert Van S chaik, Woodville

SECRETSPRING RANDALL BRENDA EX-92

S ecret S pring H olsteins, Elmira

SLOPELANE SOLOMON JANET EX-92

S lopelane H olsteins, M ount F orest

SUNNYFIELD CLAUDIA EX-92

S unnyfield H olsteins, S underland

ULMAR OCTANE WIZARD EX-92

P fister D airy, Mitchell

VOGUE ANSWER MINX-PP EX-92

Fraholme Farms, E mbro

Vector G enetics, Rockwood

VOGUE LOYOLA MUDSLIDE-P EX-92

M alden Valley Farms L td., Woodslee

N orth Polled G enetics, F ergus

Vector G enetics, Rockwood

WATERDALE ALONZO GEMA EX-92

G oldstar G enetics, G rand Valley

ALPAT KRISTA MERITRUST EX-91

A lpat H olsteins, St. T homas

ARWAY CONTROL ALEXANDRIA EX-91

A rway Farms, Elmvale

ASPENCREEK EPIC HOPE EX-91

A spencreek H olsteins, Kenilworth

BARGEOLANE NIGHT KENZIE EX-91

B argeolane Farms, Warsaw

BECKHOLM CONTROL VIENNA EX-91

B eckholm H olsteins, S underland

BECKRIDGE TATOO BETHANY EX-91

B eckridge H olsteins, Keswick

BELMORAL APPLE CRISP JADE EX-91

B elmoral Farms L td., Teeswater

BENJOBRAE APPLAUSE ACCOLADE EX-91

Z ekveld Farms L td., B owmanville

BENRISE AWESOME PEANUT BUTTER EX-91

BENRISE JACOBY PRESENT EX-91

B enschop Farms, B owmanville

BESLEA DOORMAN CAMARO EX-91

B eslea Farms L td., Yarker

Rick A llyn, C T

BLUCRIK CONTROL TAQUITOEX-91

M urrel & M artha S auder, Wallenstein

BOSDALE IMPRESSION CINDERELLA EX-91

BOSDALE UNIX JEANEX-91

B osdale Farms Inc., C ambridge

BRENTRIDGE KING DOC CAROLEX-91

B rentridge H olsteins L td., Ingersoll

BRISTAL DOORMAN INA EX-91

B rian A B etts, F lesherton

BROWNLANDS SOLOMON MIRANDA EX-91

B rownlands Farm, E nterprise

CARLDOT MIDNIGHT DELILA EX-91

CARLDOT SIDEKICK ADELE EX-91

C arldot Farms, Stratford

CASSEL MOGUL BROOKE 940 EX-91

C assel D airy, B right

CAVANALECK DOORMAN DANA EX-91

C avanaleck Farms L td., B elmont

CENTURYLANE SALT-E-PEANUT EX-91

D ave B eatty, C annington

CHRISLAND DOORMAN TANSY EX-91

C hrisland H olsteins, C aledon

CLAIRCREST IMPRESSION CLARISSA EX-91

C laircrest Farms, C ampbellford

CLARKVALLEY MATA PIGEON EX-91

C larkvalley H olsteins, Woodville

COXLYN GOLDCHIP GARLAND EX-91

COXLYN IMPRESSION IZZY EX-91

C oxlyn Farms L td., U xbridge

CROVALLEY SOLOMON MISS MANDY EX-91

CROVALLEY UNIX SIRI EX-91

C rovalley H olsteins, Hastings

DAIRYHIRST PEPPER 945 EX-91

Ron & M argaret Elmhirst, C ampbellford

DANDYLAND DEMPSEY GORGEOUS EX-91

D andyland Farm, S chomberg

DARCROFT DELTA SNIPER EX-91

D arcroft Farms L td., E mbro

DELDAIRY DUKE 1095 EX-91

Kyle M artin, G owanstown

DORCEE DOC JAMAICA EX-91

S pringrose Farms L td., Ayr

DOWNIEBROOK SAMANTHA SID EX-91

D owniebrook Farms L td., St. Pauls

EARINCLIFFE DOORMAN CASEY EX-91

S prucetone H olsteins, B radford

EASTEDGE SKYFALL 496 EX-91

E ast Edge H olsteins, S pringfield

ELCRAIG ALBUM PANSY EX-91

Elcraig H olsteins, A rthur

ELMHEIGHTS LIGHT MY FIRE TRIXY EX-91

Elmheights Farm, C annington

ERBCREST EXPANDER MARAYA EX-91

ERBCREST MERRICK ROWINA EX-91

E rbcrest Farm, Milverton

FARISVIEW DOORMAN JUNE EX-91

D alton J Faris, E ast G willimbury

G A F CARDINALS 1412 EX-91

G reen A cre Farms L td., N ew Hamburg

GARHAVEN HYMN’S HAVOC EX-91

G ary B & D orothy J Hunt, Tweed

GLENBERT UNIX SKYZONE EX-91

G lenbert H olsteins, E mbro

HEATHER HOLME SOLOMON MALI EX-91

G len & Curtis M cneil, G oderich

HEERDINK HOTLINE HARRIET EX-91

H eerdink H olsteins, St. M arys

HIGHVIEW CONTROL TOBY EX-91

Highview H olsteins, Port Perry

JAMESTON UNIX DEBORAH EX-91

J ames F J ohnston, N ew D undee

JANBRIAN WINDMILL SUMMER EX-91

B rian W Stephenson, A lliston

JANHOLM SILVIO DIGNITY EX-91

J anholm Farms, B runner

JEFFRED LAUTRUST LULABEL EX-91

JEFFRED SOLOMON TRUCE EX-91 Fred J effs, Stirling

JONELMA DEFEND REVEL EX-91

J onelma Farms, O ro M edonte

KARLINROCK MIDNIGHT SUKI EX-91

M arlin R M artin, Palmerston

KAYMANOR LOTUS ALAMO EX-91

K aymanor H olsteins, Stratford

KINGSWAY DOUGLAS A TWILIGHT EX-91

K ingsway Farms Inc., Hastings

KINGSWAY UNIX KOREA EX-91

K ingsway Farms Inc., Hastings Michael B arnum, B C W illiam A B arnum, C ampbellford

KOSTERVIEW PEPPER GALAXY EX-91

Kosterview H olsteins, Harriston

KUEPFER FURIOUS ATLAS EX-91

K uepfer H olsteins, Milverton

LANDOMILLS LAUTRUST PRINCESS EX-91

L andomills Farm L td., E nniskillen

LAURLEE CREW 720 EX-91

L aurlee Farm, F ordwich

LOA-DE-MEDE BEEMER JUNO EX-91

L oa-de-mede Farms L td., O shawa

MAIFIELD LAUTRUST AVRILLE EX-91

A lmet Farms L td., Haydon

MAPLEBROUGH DOORMAN ELISHA EX-91 M aplebrough H olsteins, U xbridge

MAPLEKEYS JACOBY ENJOY EX-91 M aplekeys Farms, Aylmer

MAPLEVUE LIGHT THE BOMB EX-91 M aplevue Farms, L istowel

MARKRIDGE APPLE-CRISP MACY EX-91 M arkridge H olsteins, Ingersoll

MARLAWN SHADOW CHARLOTTE EX-91 M arlawn H olsteins, St. J acobs

MARTINDEL DAY BROOKLYN EX-91 D ennis E M artin, Palmerston

MAYANNE THOREAU RUBY EX-91 M aynard W M artin, Harriston

MAYESDALE SOLOMON ASTRIX EX-91 J N M ayes, O ttawa

MILLEN SOLOMON ROCKET EX-91 Millen Farms, O memee

MILTENVIEW IMPRESSION REFLEX EX-91

Van Miltenburg H olsteins, S eaforth

MILVALEA EXPANDER FUSCHIA EX-91 C herry C rest H olsteins, M artintown Milvalea H olsteins, B altimore

MILVALEA UNIX ULLA EX-91 Hank & Nancy-lee Hazeleger, E mbro

MILVALEA UNIX UMBRELLA EX-91 Milvalea H olsteins, B altimore

MINTVALLEY LMF PAPARAZZI EX-91

Mintvalley Farm L td., B reslau

MURINDA WINDBROOK CINDY EX-91 E ast L akes D airy Inc., Yarker

OOSTVIEW CONTENDER LAKE EX-91 O ostview Farm L td., L akeside

ORANGEVIEW REVEL KYRA EX-91

O rangeview H olsteins, M ono

OSCROFT LENNON ADELINE EX-91

OSCROFT MERRICK WILLOWLEE EX-91

OSCROFT SOLOMON JAYMELYNN EX-91

O scroft Farms, S hannonville

PARBRO ALTASCION PEGGY EX-91

Parbro Farms, U xbridge

PAULLYN AWESOME RED CANDYCANE EX-91

M arlin H M artin, A lma

PAULROE LEAP YEAR TWIX EX-91

D avid M artin, A rthur

PERENNIAL SOLOMON ANITA EX-91

Parallel G enetics, E ast G arafraxa

PHILLHAVEN DOORMAN ROXY EX-91

P hillhaven H olsteins, S underland

PINERIDGELANE RAMBO SIERRA EX-91

Pineridge L ane Farm, Harriston

PLOEGSWAY LIVEWIRE ABBIE EX-91

M aplevue Farms, L istowel

PLUM VALLEY SOLOMON LEILA EX-91

K aymanor H olsteins, Stratford

RAIVUE SOLOMON CLARA EX-91

Raivue Farms L td., S underland

RICHLAND UNIX SWEETBUM EX-91

Richland H olsteins, Stirling

RIVER DALE KINGPIN GOLDIE EX-91

River D ale H olsteins, St. J acobs

RUTI ENVIOUS ALEXANDRA EX-91

Michael & J essica P hoenix, G reenbank

SKYLINE CONTROL STARLIGHT EX-91

SKYLINE O’KAFFEINE APPLES EX-91

S kyline H olsteins, C ampbellford

SPENCROFT ATWOOD LUBOMB EX-91

Roger S pence, Elmvale

SPRUCE LAWN MOGUL GLORIA EX-91

J aholme H olsteins, N ewton

SPRUCEAFTON THOREAU NIX EX-91

SPRUCEAFTON THOREAU NOVA EX-91

S pruceafton Farms Inc., Milverton

SQUIBBHAVEN RITA IMPRESS 5TH EX-91

D ave S quibb, B eeton

SQUIBBLAND RUTH DOORMAN EX-91

K D ean & D ebbie S quibb, St. Pauls

STARBRITE JACOBY DODGE EX-91

D ennis E M artin, Palmerston

STEVENLEA DARK KING LILAC EX-91

Stevenlea H olsteins, U xbridge

STONEBED CHIEF JAXPOT EX-91

K arnview Farms Inc., Woodstock

Stonebed H olsteins, Stratford

SUNUP LAUTRUST BEYONCE EX-91

J ason Kennedy, U xbridge

TALMANAC SYMPATICO RIDDELL EX-91

C lifford W T homson, G ranton

TERRYLEA CONTROL CALIBRA EX-91

Terrylea H olsteins, St. Pauls

TERRYLEA KINGDOC BELIEVE EX-91

TERRYLEA UNDENIED LUSH EX-91

Terrylea H olsteins, St. Pauls

Trevor J W illows, St. Pauls

THURSTHILL APP TRUTH EX-91

T hursthill Farms, L indsay

TOMALYNN UNIX DAKOTA EX-91

Ronald G randy, O shawa

ULMAR CONTROL TAKI EX-91

ULMAR UNIX DAUTISTA EX-91

P fister D airy, Mitchell

UP-RIDGE CHIEF LUCKY CHARMS EX-91

UP-RIDGE THUNDER STORM ARUBA EX-91

U p-Ridge H olsteins, E mbro

VALCROFT JACOBY PARKER EX-91

Valcroft Farms Inc., S underland

VC-LANGELANDS AFTER GLAM EX-91

Richard & A rlene M artin, St. J acobs

VINTAGE GRIFF RACH EX-91

V intage L and and C attle L td., B lackstock

WALNUTLAWN SIDEKICK LUCILLE EX-91

Walnutlawn Farms L imited, Tavistock

WALTZ ACRE BETTINA UNIX EX-91

Waltz A cre Farms, C onsecon

WAYBRU MOGUL DANDY EX-91

Waybru H olsteins, Elmira

WEST PORT NIGHTLIFE REESE EX-91

S cott J W ilson, Port Perry

WHISPERING PINE WICKHAM DANETE EX-91

W hispering Pines H olsteins, St. C lements

WILHOME LAUTRUST RELENT EX-91

W ilhome Farms, Picton

WINDY BRAE ANGEL EX-91

W indy B rae Farms, S eagrave

MARCH - MAY VG’S

2ND-LOOK MASTER BLASTER VG-87

Ronald G randy, O shawa

JACOBS ASHBY SHALLY VG-87

M orningmist H olsteins, Woodstock

Valiant D airy G enetics, Woodstock

HIGH POINT ROX FIRETRUCK VG-87

High Point Farms, Port Perry

MAPLEBROUGH UNIX RHODE VG-87

M aplebrough H olsteins, U xbridge

BESLEA UNIX CARRERA VG-87

B eslea Farms L td., Yarker

EASTEDGE RUBELS 660 VG-87

E ast Edge H olsteins, S pringfield

ECHO GLEN DOORMAN ELLIE VG-87

Echo G len Farm, D orchester

KINGSWAY LAMBDA ASPEN VG-87

K ingsway Farms Inc., Hastings

M urrayholm Farms Inc., M artintown

KINGSWAY DELTA LAMBDA JULEP VG-87

H oward-Haven H olsteins, B urgessville

H oward-View H olsteins, B urgessville

QUALITY LUSTER FLINN VG-87

Q uality Farms Inc., Vaughan

KENCHAR ALONGSIDE MAGGIE-MAY VG-87

J oel P hoenix, C annington

Kentville H olsteins, M elancthon

SUNNYFIELD AMORA VG-87

S unnyfield H olsteins, S underland

HIGH POINT BARDO MOJITO VG-87

High Point Farms, Port Perry

ELMCROFT MASTER RHETT VG-87

Elmcroft H olsteins, S underland

CADDEDALE CHIEF HOOLA VG-87

G lenbert H olsteins, E mbro

BOSDALE ALLIGATOR PORTRAIT B VG-87

BOSDALE ALLIGATOR PORTRAIT D VG-87

B osdale Farms Inc., C ambridge

KARNVILLA KD SUMMER STARZ VG-87

D.W. K arn Farms Inc., Woodstock

ALEAH MILLEN NAUGHTY ROLLINGVG-87

A leah Farms L td., B eaverton

M atthew & Tyler Yates, B eaverton

Millen Farms, O memee

MAPLEBROUGH SIDEKICK ROWENAVG-87

M aplebrough H olsteins, U xbridge

KARNVIEW GUNSHOW CHIEF BEYONCE VG-87

K

Inc., Woodstock

Best of Breedthe

EX-94 & Higher / VG-88 2-Year-Old & Higher

PLEASANT NOOK AS LALA LOOPSY EX-95-3E

P leasant N ook Farm, Ayr

SAUDER HOLME GOLDCHIP RIPSTICK EX-94-2E

M urrel & M artha S auder, Wallenstein

BENRISE JACOBY NAOMIEX-94

B enschop Farms, B owmanville

HUFFMANDALE UNIX MAPLESUGAR EX-94

H odglynn H olsteins, K incardine

L ittle Star H olsteins, Watford

M atthew Forestell, C ampbellford

MS MAPLE-DOWNS A S GWEN-ET EX-94

D alton J Faris, E ast G willimbury

Best of the Breed

Over 125,000 kilograms of Milk (Milk Per day of Life)

Breeders of Excellents

CONGRATULATIONS to the breeders listed here who bred their first Excellent cow between March and May 2023. May there be many more Excellent cows in your future! Thank you to Holstein Canada for making the information available. Please note, in order to appear on this list, the animal must have been bred and owned by the breeder at the time of classification.

PROLIFIC JEDI MERCY EX-90

P rolific G enetics, Mildmay

DAIRYBURG APPLICABLE JUDY EX-90

B rooksite Farms Inc, A uburn

WVD UPRIGHT 73 EX-90

Westview D airy, St M arys

WINDRIFT SUPERPOWER PRICELE EX-90

W indrift H olsteins, L indsay

KUEPFER FURIOUS ATLAS EX-91

K uepfer H olsteins, Milverton

ELMHEIGHTS LIGHT MY FIRE TRIXY EX-91

Elmheights Farm, C annington

WINDY BRAE ANGEL EX-91

W indy B rae Farms, S eagrave

SPRUCERICH EPIC TIMMIE EX-90

S prucerich Farm, Elmira

WOOLRICH MAYFLOWER DAZZLE EX-90

L arry G ingrich, Elmira

MILKY WAY BREWMASTER LUANNE EX-90

Terry B auman, Kenilworth

PINERIDGELANE RAMBO SIERRA EX-91

Pineridge L ane Farm, Harriston

KOSTERVIEW PEPPER GALAXY EX-91

Kosterview H olsteins, Harriston

WESWIN DOORMAN MAGNIFICENT EX-90

Weswin H olsteins, Ruthven

CENTURYLANE SALT-E-PEANUT EX-91

D ave B eatty, C annington

OUTLINE UNIX VIOLA EX-90

C laire A J ohnston, N ew D undee

JONELMA HERD DISPERSAL

APRIL 26 2023 , CARSONS AUCTIONS, LISTOWEL

TOP SELLERS

JONELMA SOLOMON SMOOTHIE $4,100

Buyer: Bryan Cook

JONELMA PARACHUTE REFLECT $4,000

Buyer:Jason Wideman

JONELMA SYMPATICO ELUSIVE ........................................ $4,000

Buyer: Jason Wideman

52 LOT AVG $2,852

SPRING STYLES AT KARNVIEW

APRIL 29 2023 , UNIQUE DESIGNS AND MARKETING

TOP SELLERS

HODGLYNN ALTITUDE MALLORY $50,000

Buyer: kamphuis Farms & Ja-Va-Za Enterprses, WI

KNONAUDALE BUGATTI ...................................................... $17,000

Buyer: Howe Holsteins, Futurecrest & Valleyburn, ON

KARNVIEW DC UNSTOP ATHENS ..................................... $12,500

Buyer: Far-Row Holsteins, ON

BRISTAL FARMS HERD

MAY 10 2023, CARSON SALES ARENA

• INTERCOUNTY DAIRY JUDGING

• 4 JUNIOR SHOWS ACROSS THE PROVINCE

• EUROPEAN YOUNG BREEDERS’ SCHOOL

• DAIRY YOUTH AWARD WINNERS’ TRIP

• 8 YOUTH SCHOLARSHIPS

• GRANTS & WORKSHOP OPPORTUNITIES

Invest in our Youth!

Please consider the Ontario Dairy Youth Trust Fund as your charity of choice!

We are proud to lend our support to a number of traditional & new initiatives this year: ONTARIO DAIRY YOUTH TRUST FUND PO BOX 610, 20 CORPORATE PLACE BRANTFORD, ON N3T 5R4 www.ontarioholstein.ca/ontario-dairy-youth-trust-fund

TOP SELLERS

BRISTAL MIDNIGHT LOLLY ..................................................

Buyer: Christhill Farms

BRISTAL MIAMI PET $3,800

Buyer: Milky Hills Farm

BRISTAL MIDNIGHT LIBBY

Buyer: Doug Peart 66

FROZEN GENETICS ONLINE EMBRYO

SALE MAY 18 2023, UNIQUE DESIGNS AND MARKETING

TOP SELLERS

F. VIP X MORNINGMIST JOEL IVEENA ............ $1,300/EMBRYO

Buyer: Brett Haines, MD

F. VIP X ARATHUSA ANDREAS SUNLIGHT $1,300/EMBRYO

Buyer: Jantzicrest Holsteins, ON

F. ALPHA X STRANS-JEN-D TEQULIA $1,200/EMBRYO Buyer: Marfloacres, ON

ZETTERDALE FARMS DISPERSAL

JULY 5 2023, CARSONS AUCTIONS, LISTOWEL

TOP SELLERS

ZETTERDALE JACKPOT ELM RED........................................ $5,100

Buyer: Lewis Weber

ZETTERDALE APTITUDE LELA..............................................$4,500

Buyer: Wayne Hope

ZETTERDALE SPORTSCAR CHRIS $4,400

Buyer: Jason Ceasar

174 LOT AVG .......................................................................... $2,550

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 March through the end of May 2023. Please note that only cows that are scored are included in our listing.

holstein ontarioHappenings

August 2023

August 3-4

Summer Vibes Online Sale by Unique Holsteins www.uniquedesignsandmarketing.com.

August 12

Elgin County Holstein Show, Aylmer Fairgrounds, 7 pm. Judge: Richard Osborne.

August 12

Glengarry County Holstein Show, Williamstown Fairgrounds,. Judge: Pat Lundy.

August 17

Eastern Ontario Invitational Show Spencerville Fairgrounds, 9 am. Judge: Kevin McLean.

August 21

Lambton County Holstein Show Forest Fairgrounds, 7 pm.

August 18

Prescott County Holstein Show Vankleek Hill Fair Judge: Devin O’Hara.

August 23

Niagara County Holstein Show Wainfleet Arena, 7 pm. Judge: Pete Coleman.

August 24

Simcoe County Holstein Show Essa Agriplex. Judge: Steve Fraser.

August 24

Oxford County Holstein Show, 6:30 pm Open to all counties. Woodstock Fairgrounds, Judge: Kevin McGriskin.

August 24-25

West-Central Junior Show, Elora.

August 29

Bruce-Grey Holstein Show Walkerton Fairgrounds. Judge: Jon Kingdon.

August 31

Brant-Wentworth Holstein Show, Paris Fairgrounds, 6 pm. Judge: Tyler Reynolds.

September 2023

September 1

Lanark County Holstein Show, Perth Fairgrounds, 11 am. Judge: Glenn Barkey.

September 1

Dufferin-Wellington County Holstein Show Orangeville Fairgrounds, 5pm.

September 2

Stormont County Holstein Show, Newington Fairgrounds, 10 am. Judge: Julie McDonald.

September 4

Ontario County Holstein Show, Port Perry Fairgrounds, 10 am. Judge: Kyle Rivington.

September 6

Simcoe County Golf Tournament

September 8

Durham County Holstein Show Orono Fairgrounds. Judge: Brent Howe.

September 8

Prince Edward County Holstein Show Picton Fairgrounds. Judge: Laura Phoenix.

September 15

Perth-Waterloo Holstein Show, Open to all counties. Stratford Fairgrounds, 6:30 pm.

September 15

Frontenac Holstein Show, Kingston Fairgrounds, 6:30 pm. Judge Stephanie Murphy.

September 17

Victoria Holstein Show, Lindsay Exhibiton Fairgrounds, 10 am.

September 29

Carleton-Russell Holstein Show, Metcalfe Fairgrounds, 12 pm.

October 2023

October 1

Curtis Clark Achievement Award Nominations deadline. Submit to Bonnie Cooper (becooper2010@gmail.com).

October 1-6

World Dairy Expo Alliant Energy Center, Madison.

October 3

Haldimand-Norfolk Holstein Show

October 3

Perth Holstein Club Sale

October 12

Eastern Ontario/Western Quebec Show Metcalfe

October 18

Autumn Opportunity Orangeville Fairgrounds, 9 am.

October 31

Pynacker Holsteins Sale for Gary Sonneveld, 10:30 a.m. at the farm, Bath, Ont.

IN MEMORY OF ELVIN “EL” PETHERICK

El passed away surrounded by loved ones at The Bridge Hospice, Warkworth, on Saturday June 3, 2023, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. El was a former teacher and Vice Principal in the Halton Board of Education, a Principal for the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, a long time Holstein farmer in Northumberland County who served on many agricultural committees and community organizations. El was a proud recipient of the Northumberland County Holstein Committee Distinguished Achievement Award, Agricultural Service Diploma from the Campbellford Agricultural Society, and Trent Hills Civic Award, only to list a few. He served as President of The Ontario Agricultural Society, President of The Ontario Holstein Association (2013) and President of Campbellford Seymour Agricultural Society, twice. As well, El was President and long-standing Secretary of Northumberland County Holstein Association. He will be remembered for the impact he made within Agriculture, Academics, Athletics and Antiques. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Joy, as well as his children and grandchildren.

ADVERTISING DEADLINE

IN BLACK & WHITE

Ontowa Farms Inc.

NAME: PHIL, RYAN, LORI, RALPH, JUDY MARTIN

HERD SIZE: 134 MILKING (150 TOTAL)

OPERATION TYPE: PARLOUR, FREE-STALL, MILKING 2X

LOCATION: ELMIRA, ON

1. What is your family’s history with Holsteins?

We are a fourth generation farm, approaching 100 years of membership with Holstein Canada.

2. What are your breeding goals?

Our breeding goals are to efficiently generate the correct number of replacement heifers to turn into mature cows that are better than their dams.

3. What genetic tools are most important in your breeding program? High quality female sexed Holstein semen from proven bulls has become central to our breeding program in the past six years. Our top scoring mature cows and any promising young cows and heifers are bred to sexed semen. This allows us to focus on cow families that last and provides daughters consistently for our replacement program. 50 per cent of the herd is bred for the first two services to sexed semen and the rest to beef. This turns into about 40 per cent of calvings delivering Holstein heifer calves. Other tools we use to help our breeding program are genomic testing all heifer replacement calves, milk testing and classification.

4. Describe the ultimate/ideal cow for your operation. The ultimate cow for our operation is long-lasting, easy-breeding cow, milking 13,000 kg milk with 4.2 Fat, low SCC, fast milking speed and Excellent classification for conformation. A medium height cow with wide chest width fits best into our barn.

5. What cow in your barn is currently the “Heart of the Herd”?

Ontowa Impression Essa is currently the heart of our herd. Classified Excellent, she turned nine in July. Essa is on her 7th lactation, soon to hit 100,000 kg of milk. She has given us six Holstein heifers, two are Very Good one is Good Plus and two heifers are not yet milking. Currently pregnant to Adorable, Essa and her daughters are leaving a big mark on our herd.

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

We are most proud of the high-quality milk we ship, as well as maintaining a clean farmstead with clean, healthy and good conformation cows that we show to many urban people throughout the year. We also take pride in the low-cost simplified breeding program that is providing us good cows as well as quality beef animals that we sell as finished animals.

7. If you could have ANY cow standing in your barn, who would it be and why? A cow we would love to have standing in our barn would be Comestar Lamagic Impression. We are familiar with Comestar’s genetics and the traits this cow carries are what we are breeding for.

8. What is one thing you would tell a young farmer starting out that you wish you had been told? Our advice for young farmers is to have some long-term goals, be patient but follow progress, and be willing to change direction as markets and technology change over time.

9. How do you use genomic information in your herd and what are your thoughts on the future of genomics? We genomic test all heifer calves and use that information to help us decide which ones to breed to Holstein and which ones to beef. Six years ago when we went to sexed semen only for the Holstein breedings, there were not many proven bulls that were sexed, and so we used several young sires based on their genomic numbers. Most of those bulls did not return on the proof sheet. These bulls did not necessarily hurt us, but when they did produce a proof later on, there were usually a few traits shown that would have led us to make a different decision. We like the genomic test results for the heifers since some traits are highlighted and brought to our attention for matings, but will only use proven bulls for matings.

10. How many cows do you flush each year? How do you market your embryos that are for sale? We do not flush cows since it does not fit into our program. We have significantly fewer heifers than we did five years ago, so there are fewer recipients available. These days, we prefer to get heifers from our cows.

11. Being in the breeding business, what traits do you find sell the best? What trait do you value most? We market our milking cows for the commercial replacement market. What we find sells best are 2nd calvers that are 20 days fresh and milking 45 kg, with high butterfat and less than 30,000 SCC. Fast-milking cows with good teat placement and teat length, wide chest width and all of the other good conformation traits are desirable, as are cows with high wide udders, good feet and legs and wide, sloped rumps.

12. Which bulls do you feel has had the most impact on your herd over the years and today? Bulls that have left a mark on our herd in the recent past are Unix, Impression, and Fever. We are currently using Victor, Adorable, Fuel, Pursuit, and Unix.

13. What are the management practices in place on your farm that you feel contribute the most to the success of your operation? Why? Every breeding is viewed as potentially adding value to our herd, and eventually, our financial bottom line. Healthy, high-producing, good conformation cows are the goal of our breeding. These cows are fun to work with and profitable. Today we are milking 134 cows with 16 dry cows, 108 heifers under milking age and 177 beef/dairy cross cattle from birth up to 18 months old that we are raising to finish, all generated from our herd. We now have 25 fewer heifers than we used to raise, and the heifers we do have are from the better half of the herd.

The Martin family from l to r: (back) Lori and Ryan; (middle) Isaac, Judy, Ralph and Phil; (front) Molly and Weston. PHOTO SUBMITTED.

NO. 3 PROVEN TPI SIRE

A2A2 B-Cas BB K-Cas

+3066 GTPI® | +$960 HHP$™ | +1030 PTAM

+2.71 PTAT | +2.33 UDC | +4.6 PL

+3697 LPI | +$3218 PRO$ | +9 CONFORMATION | 107 HERD LIFE

+1024KG MILK | +99KG FAT | +0.50% FAT

PARFECT enters our proven lineup as the breed’s No.3 GTPI® sire. He offers outstanding production, positive daughter fertility and a desirable linear profile. His daughters are incredibly balanced and combine strength, great feet and legs and impressive udder quality.

THE LEGACY CONTINUES TO GROW WITH THE NEXT GENERATION OF PARFECT SONS AVAILABLE THROUGH SELECT SIRES CANADA.

Contact your local Select Sires Canada representative today to add the PARFECT touch to your breeding programme!

Swale

PROGENESIS Ambrose

200HO12580

• RANGER-RED x MYSTIQUE LAMBDA ANIS VG-89-4YR-CAN

• Exciting Red carrier Ranger-Red from 13 Gen. VG or EX celebrated for their remarkable lifetime production & type!

VALIANT SPERO

Legit

• LAMBDA x LADYROSE CAUGHT YOUR EYE EX-92-USA

• 2x World Dairy Expo Class Winner, 2021 & 2022

• 9th gen VG or EX from the Blackrose family!

200HO12616

• Family of Winterbay Goldwyn Lotto EX-95-5YR-USA, Grand Champion RAWF, 2010; 2x All-Can. & All-American

• LAMBDA x SPERO VALIANT LOTTERYS SIDEPOT VG-86-2YR-CAN

Dam: Spero Valiant Lotterys Sidepot VG-86-2YR-CAN (by Sidekick)

Dam: MYSTIQUE LAMBDA ANIS VG-89-4YR-CAN (by Lambda)