Messenger www.mimilk.com Vol. 96 Issue 7

January 2014

Leaders’ Conference • NMPF Annual Meeting

Michigan Milk

The official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association

Inside

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EDITOR’S LETTER

4 MMPA MattersIs 2014 the Year for Dairy

Farmers?

6 Quality WatchCongratulations to All Quality Award Winners!

8 News & ViewsCalf SchoolsMilk Check Settlement Dates

FEATURES

10 Local Meeting Schedule

12 Elwood Kirkpatrick’s Dairy Promotion Vision Recognized

14 All In 2013 District 1 OYDC Nate

and Alicia Baker

17 MMPA Milker Training Schools

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contentsMichigan Milk Messenger

Managing Editor............................. Sheila BurkhardtEditors ............. Laura Moser, Alex SchnabelrauchAdvertising Manager .................Nancy MuszynskiCirculation ................................................................... 4,200

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

41310 Bridge St. Telephone: 248-474-6672 P.O. Box 8002 FAX: 248-474-0924Novi, MI 48376-8002 www.mimilk.com Periodical postage paid at Novi, MI and at additional offices.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Michigan Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002.

(ISSN 0026-2315)

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18 Back on the Farm District 6 OYDC Mike and

Laura Halfman

20 2013 MMPA Leaders’ Conference

22 2013 NMPF Young Cooperators Conference

24 2013 Joint Annual Meeting

Cover StoryWinter time means meeting season for MMPa members. Be sure to attend your local meeting and sign yourself or an employee up for a Milker Training school near you.

Officers: President: Ken nobisVice President: Bob KranTreasurer: Mark Halbert General Manager/secretary: Clay Galarneau assistant Treasurer: Joe DiglioGeneral Counsel: Todd Hoppe

Michigan Milk Producers association, established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 2,000 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and ohio.

Michigan Milk Producers Association

Board of Directors Directors-At-LargeKen nobis, st. Johns 989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 201rodney Daniels, Whittemore 989-756-4935Mark Halbert, Battle Creek 269-964-0511

District Directors 1. Hank Choate, Cement City 517-529-9032 2. Tim Hood, Paw Paw 269-657-5771 4. Dan Javor, Hastings 269-948-8345 5. Brent Wilson, Carson City 989-584-3481 6. Brad ritter, Byron 810-266-4091 7. James reid, Jeddo 810-327-6830 8. leonard Brown, sandusky 810-648-450510. eric Frahm, Frankenmuth 989-652-355211. Bob Kran, Free soil 231-464-588912. John Kronemeyer, Pickford 906-647-7638

For listing of other MMPA leaders visit mimilk.com

Departments

26 MMPA Quality Awards

535 member farms recognized

32 Merchandise33 Quality Premiums34 Freeliners36 Classifieds37 Policies38 Market Report39 Staff

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If the deep freeze continues, this winter may be remembered by future generations in the context of, “You think this is bad? You should have seen what winter was like when I was a kid.” We would all agree that weather is naturally a topic of daily concern in an industry that is so dependent on which way the wind blows.

But what events (other than the weather) will we remember years from now? Will we be able to say that the farm bill of 2012 was enacted in 2014? I hope so, because the Dairy Margin Protection Program coupled with the Dairy Market stabilization Program provisions of the act will set the path for a more stable dairy industry.

of course, the farm bill is not the only thing that will capture our attention in the year ahead. Will 2014 be remembered as the year during which MMPa members reached an even more significant level of participation in the national Dairy Farmers assuring responsible Management (F.a.r.M.) Program? eighty percent of our member milk supply has agreed to participate in this national animal care guideline

program. ninety percent would be a great place to be a year from now, bringing our goal of 100 percent participation much closer. Compliance with these standards is important to ensure our ability to market our milk.

Production is another area of focus for 2014. Will we see a continuation of the trend in milk production moving from west to east in the u.s.? Production in our geographic region has grown more rapidly than in other areas. We think it will continue, even though weather and other variables influence our production. Herd management continues to improve, resulting in higher production per cow.

We are quite certain that MMPa member milk production will expand in 2014, but how much? Cow numbers continue to grow, but determining the rate of growth is a guessing game. It would be nice if we could look into a crystal ball and see precise production numbers for this year, five years from now and even 10 or 20 years from now. We also need to estimate consumption trends for dairy products, both domestic and global, to plan for the future. But since exact data is not available until after the fact, we are left with the challenge of responsibly predicting these numbers for the future based on information we can gather now.

The bottom line is your board members are heavily involved in the process of predicting future

member milk production and what type of facilities will be required to process it. additional processing capacity is necessary, so now we have to decide which products will be manufactured using the milk that you provide and how those products will be processed. Various possibilities are being considered by the board and management working together. We are still in the early stages, but we are making progress. early in 2014, we will establish a path to follow so that we are positioned for the years ahead.

The beginning of the new year gives us an opportunity to reflect and then move forward. We see reasons to be optimistic. Globally, we see an expanding middle class that wants to improve its diet and recognizes that dairy, with its high quality protein, is a natural fit.

Total dairy consumption is holding steady in the domestic market, with fluid consumption declining while consumption of products like yogurt, cheese and butter increases. Directing member milk to fill the needs of product demand is our goal. Maximizing returns for our members is always at the forefront of our efforts, as we strive to “market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible” in fulfillment of MMPa’s mission.

Is 2014 the Year for Dairy Farmers?

byKen NobisPresident

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For the last 15 years, MMPA has honored its members with three levels of quality awards: bronze, silver and gold. This local meeting season, MMPA plans to honor its members with 341 bronze awards, 148 silver awards and 46 gold awards. MMPA will honor more members this year than any year since the program’s inception.

In addition to recognition at local meetings, some MMPa members will be honored for their excellent milk quality at the national level later this month. The national Mastitis Council (nMC) honors the best of the best in milk quality. The national Dairy Quality award Platinum level awardees will be recognized at the nMC annual Meeting in Fort Worth, Texas. at press time, the awardees have not been announced, but I believe MMPa will be well represented again this year. look to the January 10 issue of the Hoard’s Dairyman for a list of platinum, gold and silver level winners.

MMPa can partner with members wishing to improve their milk quality through an assortment of services. acquiring good information is the first step in developing a milk quality improvement plan. MMPa member representatives can help develop

sampling strategies and interpret test results to develop an action plan to achieve quality goals.

This is particularly valuable for members striving to lower their bulk tank somatic cell count. In light of changing quality premiums taking effect this month, I strongly encourage members who may be adversely affected by the changes to contact their member representative to review their mastitis management program.

since 1996, MMPa has provided its members Milker Training schools. Throughout the schools, many important milking and milking prep procedures are highlighted, showing both new milkers and seasoned owners how to maximize milk quality. For example, the importance of udder sanitation is emphasized along with the timing of certain steps of the udder prep procedure. We focus on timing because using optimal udder prep timing has been shown to improve milking speed by more effectively utilizing the oxytocin the cows produce naturally.

MMPa generally host classroom-style Milker Training schools through February and March at various locations. The dates and locations of the 2014 schools are included on page 17.

Congratulations to those members who earned a quality award this year. I hope to see even more quality award winners next year.

MMPA’s Participation in the National Dairy FARM Program Reaches Another Milestone

MMPa has been participating in the national Dairy FarM Program (Farmers assuring responsible Management) for three years. The program was born out of farmer recognition that consumers want food from farms that routinely take excellent care of their animals. The MMPa board of directors’ farms were among the first MMPa farms to enroll in FarM and are scheduling to have their farms re-evaluated by their member representatives.

other members that were early adopters of the program three years ago are being contacted by their member representatives to re-enroll. The program has evolved since its inception, increasing its focus on written standard operating procedures for animal care activities such as feeding calves, milking, caring for special needs animals and moving non-ambulatory animals.

MMPa has enrolled 80 percent of its milk supply in the program and continues to work toward having all members participate. Widespread participation in a common sense animal care program such as FarM is critical to showing consumers the dairy industry takes animal well-being seriously and continuously strives to improve animal care.

Members interested in getting more information on the national Dairy FarM Program or other MMPa services are encouraged to call their member representative or the novi office.

QUALITY WATCh

Congratulations to All Quality Award Winners

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smoother softer teats, in all kinds of weather. That means better teat sanitation, lower somatic cell counts and improved milkability throughout your herd.

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NEWS & VIEWS

Upcoming Events

January Local Meetings Continue

February4 Resolutions Committee6-8 Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference - Mt. Pleasant

Across the Board: November Milk Prices Increase strength in the commodity markets resulted in an increase in all four of the class prices for milk during the month of november. The november Class III price increased 61¢, settling at $18.83 per hundredweight. The Class IV price also increased to $20.52 per hundredweight, up 35¢ from october.

Milk production during november declined as is normal for this time of the year and is remaining at seasonally low levels. However, production during november 2013 did exceed last year’s production

level by 3 percent.

Only Two MMPA Calf Training Schools Left! The national Dairy FarM Program recommends farms document all employee training for new and existing employees on an annual basis. To help fulfill this recommendation, MMPa and land o’lakes animal Milk Products Co. are offering calf training schools again this year Dec. 10-13 and Jan. 30-31 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The classroom-style meeting is limited to 25 per date, so reserve your spot early!

2013/2014 Dates and Locations Jan. 30, 2014 – russo’s Mainstream sports Bar & Grille (Hopkins) Jan. 31, 2014 – Van Buren Hotel (shipshewana, Ind.)

To register, contact Marianne Gasiewski at the novi office (800-572-5824 ext. 215). Please be ready to provide your farm information, desired school, phone number and the number of people attending.

Direct Deposit Schedule The MMPa direct deposit program provides for the direct deposit of members’ net milk proceeds to their bank account through the use of a secure electronic funds transfer system. This system assures the timely deposit of funds on the dates listed below and eliminates the need for monthly trips to the bank.The direct deposit service is free to MMPa members. Members on direct deposit still receive their check statement by mail. The statement is the same as the one attached to the milk check. The direct deposit stub of the statement indicated the amount transferred into the member’s bank account.

If you are interested in simplifying your banking and signing up for direct deposit or desire more information, please contact the MMPa Member services Department at 800-572-5824.

January 17 FridayJanuary 27 Monday February 18 TuesdayFebruary 26 Wednesday March 17 MondayMarch 26 Wednesday april 17 Thursdayapril 25 Friday May 16 FridayMay 27 Tuesday June 17 TuesdayJune 26 Thursday

July 17 ThursdayJuly 25 Friday august 18 Mondayaugust 26 Tuesday september 17 Wednesdayseptember 26 Friday october 17 Fridayoctober 27 Monday november 17 Mondaynovember 26 Wednesday December 17 WednesdayDecember 26 Friday

Settlement Dates Processed Through JP Morgan Chase Calendar Year 2014

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NEWS & VIEWS

MMPA Advisory CommitteeDistrict OneCarlton evans, litchfield 517-398-0629 Brad Hart, Clayton 517-445-2649Glenn Preston, Quincy 517-639-4182art riske, Hanover 517-524-6015 District TwoDonald Bever, Delton 269-671-5050richard Thomas, 574-825-5198 Middlebury, In Michael oesch, Middlebury, In 574-825-2454

District FourDavid Bivens, Bellevue 269-758-3980Mark Crandall, 269-660-2229 Battle CreekJames Droscha, Charlotte 517-543-5577David lott, Mason 517-676-4593

District FiveBruce Benthem, McBain 231-825-8182Tom Jeppesen, stanton 989-762-5399Bill Jernstadt, Big rapids 231-796-4650 Mike rasmussen, edmore 989-762-5380

District Sixaaron Gasper, lowell 616-897-2747 anthony Jandernoa, 989-593-2224 st. Johns David reed, owosso 989-723-8635 Kris Wardin, st Johns 989-640-9420

District SevenBill Blumerich, Berlin 810-395-2926Pat Bolday, emmett 810-395-7139 scott lamb, Jeddo 810-327-6135Chuck White, Fowlerville 517-521-3564

District EightMike Bender, Croswell 810-679-4782Tim Kubacki, sebewaing 989-883-3249Dale Phillips, Marlette 989-635-7917steve schulte, Harbor Beach 989-479-9339

District TenJohn Bennett, Prescott 989-345-4264Ken Daniels, sterling 989-654-2546rod Fowler, Chesaning 989-845-6131scott Kleinhardt, Clare 989-386-8037

District ElevenJim Good, Caledonia 616-891-1414Frank Konkel, Hesperia 231-854-8041 David Pyle, Zeeland 616-772-1512Bill stakenas, Free soil 231-757-9340 District Twelverobert Barron, Gladstone 906-786-7027Dave Folkersma, rudyard 906-478-3023Corby Werth, alpena 989-379-3772Jeremy Werth, alpena 989-464-4022

MMPA Board Member Promotes Dairy Exports in Dubai

MMPa District 7 Director Jim reid was selected amongst the DMI board of directors to represent Michigan and u.s. dairy farmers on the u.s. Dairy export Council’s (usDeC) latest trade mission to Dubai. The ninth largest port in the world, Dubai is the gateway to millions of potential dairy consumers in the Middle east and north africa (Mena). an arid region already importing 90 percent of its food supply, Jim and other u.s. dairy leaders and farmers met with Mena trade leaders to begin the process of exploring opportunities for increased u.s. dairy imports in the region. With such a large, persistent demand, Mena importers relayed that they are looking for consistent dairy products catered to the demands of local consumers from dependable

suppliers, not just surplus product. Jim adds, “This region has a young, rapidly growing population; 50-60 percent of residents are under 30 years old. as a whole, they are affluent, tech-savvy and very knowledgeable about their diet and are looking for quality sources of protein, like dairy. It’s a market we want to be a part of and there’s tremendous potential to continue growing the amount of dairy the region sources from the u.s.” Throughout the mission, it was evident that Mena countries are attractive trading partners for u.s. dairy. since 40-50 percent of shipments to Dubai are food products, the port understands the unique handling, safety and quality concerns associated with imported food. It also boasts an efficient, upscale infrastructure primed for receiving high volumes of imports and products intended for re-export.

In addition, the large number of u.s. ships already transporting goods to Dubai makes it cheaper for the u.s. to service Mena’s dairy demand than new Zealand or australia.

Moving forward, Jim and usDeC believe u.s. dairy products, formulated with Mena consumers in mind, have the potential to increase demand in the region and secure market opportunities for u.s. dairy.

MMPA board member Jim Reid, pictured with chefs Mark Todd (left) John Esser (right) during the USDEC Trade Mission to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Photo Courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman

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Local Date Place Location TimeDeford/Clifford-Mayville

Monday, Jan. 6 liz’s american Diner Caro 12 noon

Frankenmuth Tuesday, Jan. 7 DaVinci’s restaurant Frankenmuth 12 noon

Flint/livingston Charter/owosso

Wednesday, Jan. 8 Gigi’s Banquet Center Corunna 12 noon

Grand rapids Wednesday, Jan. 8 Golden Corral Buffet Walker 12 noon

Dairyland Thursday, Jan. 9 Bloomers Twp Hall Carson City 12 noon

Mid-Michigan Thursday, Jan. 9 Clinton Co. resa Building

st. Johns 11:45 a.m.

West Michigan Wednesday, Jan. 15 Zeeland Township Hall Vriesland 11:30 a.m.

alma Friday, Jan. 10 Maxfield’s retaurant Wyman 11:30 a.m.

Hillman Friday, Jan. 10 Hillman Community Center

Hillman 11:30 a.m.

Constantine saturday, Jan. 11 siloam Fellowship Goshen, In 10:30 a.m.

Huron saturday, Jan. 11 Franklin Inn Bad axe 11:30 a.m.

Ingham County Wednesday, Jan. 15 Brookshire Inn Williamston 10:30 a.m.

Mid-Thumb Wednesday, Jan. 15 Holly Meadows Golf Course

Capac 11:30 a.m.

evart Thursday, Jan. 16 rehoboth reformed Church

McBain 11 a.m.

Muskegon Thursday, Jan. 16 russ’ Banquet room Muskegon 11:30 a.m.

Clare/Mt. Pleasant Friday, Jan. 17 Clare Church of nazarene

Clare 11 a.m

Deckerville saturday, Jan. 18 D’ville Diner Deckerville 12 noon

saline-ann arbor Tuesday, Jan. 21 Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds

ann arbor 12 noon

Jackson Co. Plus Wednesday, Jan. 22 Gene Davis & sons Jackson 12 noon

Mid-sanilac Wednesday, Jan. 22 liberty lanes sandusky 12 noon

Hillsdale-litchfield Thursday, Jan. 23 Hillsdale County Fairgrounds

Hillsdale 12 noon

Blossomland Friday, Jan. 24 Zeke’s restaurant Dowagiac 12 noon

Brown City-Marlette saturday, Jan. 25 eddie-G’s Marlette 12 noon

2013-2014 Local MeetingsNote: Information listed was available at press time. All members will receive complete meeting details in the invitation for their local meeting.

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Mich Tank Ad.pdf 1 12/4/13 11:11 PM

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W atching dairy exports exceed 15 percent of dairy sales makes it

difficult to remember an industry without a strong export market. But it wasn’t so long ago that export sales barely reached 3 percent. one vital component to the considerable increase in export sales is the u.s. Dairy export Council (usDeC). The formation and initial leadership of usDeC in the mid-1990s was the vision of dairy leaders at the time, most notably, then MMPa President elwood Kirkpatrick. elwood was one of the founding members of usDeC and the first chairman of the council. elwood’s efforts in leading usDeC and other notable promotion efforts such as the formation of Dairy Management, Inc (DMI) and Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) were recognized this past november when he was presented with the richard e lyng award by the national Dairy Promotion and research Board (nDB). The award is named for former u.s. Department of agriculture secretary richard e. lyng, who played a key role in implementing policies that led to the establishment of the nDB 30 years ago. The lyng award honors dairy industry leaders who have made a significant contribution to dairy promotion that benefits the entire industry. “elwood Kirkpatrick served the dairy industry for nearly 30 years, playing an instrumental role in domestic and international dairy marketing,” said steve Maddox, California dairy producer and outgoing chairman of the nDB. “elwood’s contributions brought efficiencies to producer

investments in promotion and found new markets for our products that are still making a difference today. “Kirkpatrick also served as the first chairman of the u.s. Dairy export Council, where he led efforts to establish and grow the u.s. dairy export sector. In the mid-1990s when the council was created, dairy exports represented less than 3 percent of annual milk production. seeing the potential to grow export markets, Kirkpatrick led activities that grew demand for u.s. dairy around the world. Today, exports represent 15 percent of annual milk production,” Maddox added.

elwood was elected to serve on the Michigan Milk Producers association (MMPa) board of directors in 1979 and served as president of MMPa from 1981 to 2007. He served on the executive committee of the national Milk Producers Federation (nMPF) for 23 years, including serving as nMPF vice president from 1983-2003. “I really enjoyed my time serving at MMPa and nMPF,” elwood says. “I had the chance to work with some really good people, and had a lot of exciting opportunities. I would like to think we made a difference for the industry.” an example of elwood’s leadership character emerged in the late 1980s when he helped lead the charge to unify the promotion and marketing efforts of the u.s. dairy industry, bringing together

the activities of the united Dairy Industry association and the national Dairy Board through the formation of Dairy Management Incorporated, saving american dairy farmers millions of dollars and creating a more effective national dairy promotion program.

Through his leadership position with nMPF, elwood also helped put the framework for

the Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) program into place. Today, we see how these two programs have merged to elevate the u.s. dairy export market to where it is today. elwood’s ability to see past current situations and have a vision for the future laid the foundation for the success realized by usDeC and the CWT program. “It wasn’t always easy to convince people to join usDeC,” elwood says. “at the time, surplus products were going to the government so not everyone believed we needed to build exports. It took a lot of meetings and a lot of conversations, but we got it done.” since retiring as MMPa president in 2007, elwood and his wife Michelle, have moved back to the home farm in Kinde where his daughter lisa and her husband Craig; and his son, ronnie, raise 1,500 head of dairy steers and crop farm. as part of the richard e. lyng award, the nDB will contribute $2,500 to the elwood Kirkpatrick Dairy science research Fund at Michigan state university.

Elwood Kirkpatrick’s Dairy Promotion Vision Recognized

Past MMPA President Elwood Kirkpatrick and his wife, Michelle.

2 June 2012 Michigan Milk Messenger 3

By alex schnabelrauch

J ewelers. audiologists. Dieticians. When leafing through Forbes’ list of “least

stressful jobs,” dairy farmer is nowhere to be found. no surprise to District 1 outstanding young Dairy Cooperators nate and alicia Baker, they know firsthand the strain dairying can put on the body, mind and pocketbook.

“We have just two non-family employees which means there’s never enough time. Cows need to get fed. Barns need to be cleaned. equipment needs to be repaired. Between the time crunch and weather, the challenges can sometimes get overwhelming,” nate relays.

regardless, the Bakers both agree they wouldn’t trade their lifestyle for a less stressful occupation. “There’s nothing more rewarding than watching the progression on a farm – seeing a calf grow and become a productive member of the dairy herd. For farmers, we’re ‘all in’ everyday, doing everything we can to take better care of our animals and land,” alicia elaborates.

By focusing on the positives and contributing innumerable hours of hard work, the Bakers have found their niche in the dairy business.

Keeping an Eye on ImprovementThe youngest of four brothers, nate’s father, Dale, always pushed his sons to get an education before making the decision to continue

the family business. But even after two years at college, there was no doubt nate was coming back to the home farm.

In 2001, he officially joined the operation full-time, giving his new “city girl” wife her first taste of farm life. “sure, we dated riding in the tractor, and I spent plenty of time watching him do chores, but becoming a farm wife was definitely a change – a hard, but wonderful change,” alicia smiles.

Currently, nate, his father and brother, alger, work together on rosedale Dairy Farm, just off us-12 in Jonesville. a third generation dairy farmer, nate helps with the fieldwork, milking (one day a week) and equipment maintenance and serves as the herdsman. Continuous improvement is what gets him up in the morning.

“I’ve attended MMPa’s Milker Training school twice just to get the most up to date information to increase our quality and productivity. I go with our milkers even though that’s not my primary role. I refuse to ask our employees to do something that I wouldn’t or haven’t already done myself,” nate affirms.

More Than DairyIn addition to an off-farm income (alicia works as an instructional assistant at Williams elementary school and a dietary aid at Hillsdale

All In2013 District 1 OYDC Nate and Alicia Baker

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Top: Nate and Alicia Baker collectively juggle two off-farm jobs and a dairy and beef business while keeping up with the schedules of their four busy kids. Bottom: Nate works with his father and brother to manage and operate their 160-cow dairy in Jonesville.

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Nate and Alicia BakerDistrict 1 OYDC Hillsdale-Litchfield Local

Children: Mackenzie (10), Morgan (8), Marshall (6) and Maverick (4)

Herd Size: 160 milking, 20 dry

Replacements: 130

Acres Farmed: 1,100

Crops Grown: corn, alfalfa, soybeans and wheat

Milking Regiment: twice-a-day milking in a double-12 herringbone parlor

Sustainable Practices: reclaimed pasteurizer cooler water, on-farm mortality composting

Breeding Program: cows are aI’ed, heifers are bred natural service

Education: nate and alicia both graduated from Jonesville High school in 1999. They each earned associate’s Degrees from Ferris state university – nate was part of the auto body program and alicia studied early childhood education.

Certifications/Training: FarM Program, Milker Training schools

Ag, Dairy and Community Involvement: nate has been part of the Jonesville Volunteer Fire Department since 2001.

County Medical Care Facility) the Bakers have also added a second enterprise to their dairy operation to help contribute to the bottom line: Bakers Beef.

“In 2009, I convinced alicia that we should start a beef operation in one of the barns at our home. We’ve raised calves from one week of age to feeder size ever since. We buy bull calves from the home dairy and another local dairy,” nate elaborates.

raising about 100 calves and feeders at any given time, nate does the morning chores before he heads to the dairy for the day, and alicia handles the evening chores when she gets home from work. recovering from a bad strain of pneumonia that wiped out three-quarters of the calf herd in 2010, the operation has grown over the years and has added a dimension of diversity, and therefore flexibility, to the Bakers’ balance sheet.

The Holstein Lifestyleat the end of the day, the Bakers still admit the dairy business is far from easy. Balancing on and off farm enterprises and occupations while raising four kids means time is in short supply. Most days, it’s a battle against the clock.

“But my kids get to learn real world lessons – the importance of hard work and integrity, hands-on animal care and the circle of life – before they even get to elementary school. They can be a part of what I do and understand my line of work,” nate says. “sure the hours are longer than a typical job. But my kids and family can go with me, ride along and take pride in being a part of feeding our community and world.”

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ASK BEFORE YOU BUY!

Only Buy Cattle with

RFID TAGS!

Know the Law

michigan.gov/mdard517.284.5769

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registration: 9:30 a.m. Program: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (lunch is provided)

February 12 shipshewana shipshewana event CenterFebruary 26 litchfield Ferry FarmsMarch 6 Bad axe Huron County expo CenterMarch 18 st. Johns agro-Culture liquid Headquarters (english)March 19 st. Johns agro-Culture liquid Headquarters (spanish)april 9 newaygo Cronk’s oakridge restaurantapril 23 alpena a-PlexMay 1 Clare Clare Church of nazarene

Milker Training School Registration

name:

address:

Telephone:

Producer Permit number:

Date and location of session you Will be attending:

number of People attending:

Send this form to: MMPa Milker Training school Member services Dept. P.o. Box 8002 novi, MI 48376-8802

or call/email Marianne Gasiewski with this information at 248-474-6672 or Gasiewski@mimilk.com.

2014 Milker Training School Locations and Dates

attention to detail and consistency in milking procedures make the difference between a good milking routine and an excellent one. Whether you or your employees have been milking for 30 years or three months, at MMPa Milker Training schools (MTs) you will learn best milking procedures which will lead to improved milk quality, higher monthly quality premiums, reduced new mastitis infections and antibiotic use and increased milk production.

MMPa MTs is a day-long session offered free of charge to MMPa members and their employees. a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training helps participants understand the “why” and “how” of an excellent udder prep procedure. Both managers and employees are encouraged to attend to promote consistent, operation-wide adoption, implementation and reinforcement of milking procedure techniques.

The registration form and schedule are included below. each MTs is limited to 35 people; however, a

second session may be held to meet demand. Please register early to help us determine if a second day is needed at some locations. Contact your MMPa member representative or the Member services Department at the novi office (see contact information below) with any questions or registration information.

Hispanic Milker Training SchoolsHave trouble communicating with spanish-speaking employees? some Michigan dairy farms employ Hispanic milkers and, more often than not, the language barrier makes communication between milkers and owners difficult.

To help overcome this obstacle, MMPa offers MTs taught by a spanish speaking instructor. a concurrent, but separate, session is also held to give employers and/or milking supervisors an overview of the techniques the employees are taught so everyone is on the same page after attending MTs.

2014 MMPA Milker Training Schools

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Back on the FarmBy alex schnabelrauch

A t 18, Mike Halfman had zeroed in on a few potential careers,

none of which included cows, milk or manure. “I still remember him saying, ‘This is my last day milking cows!’ We can all see how that turned out,” his wife, laura, smiles.

Trying his hand at land surveying and construction, a love for the outdoors brought him back to the one place he never thought he’d end up: home. Despite the never-ending “to do” list, the Halfmans are balancing family, hobbies and community service with the demanding dairy farming schedule.

Two-in-One Dairy Though the history of T & H Dairy spans four generations and 130 years, its growth was gradual until more recent history. Growing up, Mike’s parents milked 120 cows in Fowler. By 2005, four years after Mike returned full-time, two barns had been added and the herd grew to 750. yet, the change was just beginning.

“It all started in the winter of 2006. like most dairy farmers, we sit down in the winter and start dreaming and scheming, playing out ‘what if ’ scenarios about the future of the farm,” Mike explains. “our vet mentioned a farm for sale in Ionia (previously owned by Matt and linda arends) and we started penciling it out, crunching the numbers. eventually, with help from financial consultants, we decided to move forward and expand the operation.”

The rest is history. The farm’s partners – Mike along with his father, uncle and brother – extended the partnership to a local herdsman, Jamie Meyer, offering him the opportunity to manage the newly acquired farm. By the end of March, T & H Dairy was up and running in Ionia.

sharing labor, financials and most equipment, the two locations – situated 20 miles apart – are treated as one farm. While the mature milking herds are separated, heifers are comingled and shifted as space and logistics allow.

“With five partners, there’s definitely some overlap of responsibilities. But we each try to stay out of each other’s way. It allows us to be more hands-on and supervise our over

40 full- and part-time employees directly instead of relying on hired supervisors. everyone has their niche and we work together to get the job done,” Mike says.

This flexibility gives Mike a chance to manage an assortment of farm tasks, helping with fieldwork, budgeting, strategic planning, feeding cows and employee management as well as working

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Top: Mike and Laura Halfman work as part of a five-way partnership operating two dairies and over 3,000 acres. Bottom: Mike dedicates countless hours focused on improving the herd’s genetics and strategic plan while doing his part to balance the two dairys’ workload.

2013 District 6 OYDC Mike and Laura Halfman

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Mike and Laura Halfman District 6 OYDC Mid-Michigan Local

Children: Madison (12), emily (10), Thomas (8), Katelyn (4) and Kyle (2)

Herd Size: 1,540 milking, 220 dry

Replacements: 1,450

Acres Farmed: 3,400

Crops Grown: corn, alfalfa, soybeans and wheat

Milking Regiment: three-times-a-day milking in a double-10 (Fowler) and double-8 (Ionia) herringbone parlor

Sustainable Practices: reclaimed plate cooler water, fluorescent lighting

Breeding Program: cows are aI’ed, clean-up bull with the heifers

Education: Mike graduated from Fowler High school in 1996 and took one year of surveying classes at Ferris state university. He also studied residential building at lansing Community College for one year and graduated from the Michigan state university Dairy Management Program in 1999. laura graduated from Fowler High school in 1997 and earned an associate’s Degree in travel and tourism from lansing Community College.

Certifications/Training: FarM Program

Ag, Dairy and Community Involvement: Mike and laura have volunteered at Breakfast on the Farm and Family Fun on the Farm events and have hosted school tours and Michigan state university dairy judging team workouts. Mike is a member of the Fowler Knights of Columbus and Clinton County Farm Bureau. laura is treasurer for the Fowler PTa and has volunteered at Fowler schools and the family’s church.

alongside Jeff to handle herdsman duties for the Fowler herd.

An On-Farm HobbyBut Mike’s responsibilities don’t end with the typical farm tasks. “over the years, we’ve really gotten into buying, selling and marketing registered cattle and building up our herd’s genetics,” he relays. “By utilizing embryo transfer and genomic testing, we can market genetics and add to the operation’s profitability. In my mind, if I can use the same barns and feed the same amount of forage while increasing cash flow, it’s a no brainer.”

In fact, the Halfmans just sold a heifer which placed in the top five in the country in type at the 2013 World Dairy expo.

The Dairyman and Dairy PromoterWhile not a farm girl by birth, Mike’s wife of over 13 years, laura, enjoys raising their five kids on the family farm. Formerly employed with an association for charter schools in lansing, the stay-at-home mom’s schedule is anything but relaxed. Between managing kids’ schedules, promoting dairy and volunteering for numerous community events, laura also finds time to operate a new bakery business (using only real butter of course) dubbed “laura Bakes.” Thanks to her involvement off the farm, T & H Dairy helps support the no More sidelines program for special needs youth, donating milk to the group’s autumn dance.

“We realize it’s our job as dairy farmers to not only do a good job on the farm, but to also be a good community member, actively telling dairy’s story,” laura elaborates. Mike adds, “Whether it’s the farm or a community event, at the end of each day I like being able to look back and see what we’ve accomplished. It’s rewarding to watch firsthand how the long hours and hard work pays off. The only bad part is it all starts again tomorrow. our work is never done.”

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L ocal officers, delegates, advisory Committee members and dairy

communicators gathered in force on Monday, november 25 at the Kellogg Center in east lansing for the annual MMPa leaders’ Conference.

Joined by CoBank senior Director of Industry research Terry Barr and Michigan state university (Msu) College of agriculture and natural resources (Canr) Dean Fred Poston, members received industry updates, the dairy market outlook and co-op news, including an overview of proposed changes to the bylaws.

“Designed as a kick-off to the local meeting season, leaders’ Conference is another way we try to keep our members informed about industry,

state and national affairs. since we are owned by our 1,300 member-owners, this is our chance to update them on the co-op’s position,” Clay Galarneau, MMPa general manager, comments.

starting off the agenda, CoBank’s Terry Barr gave attendees a recap of overall supply and demand trends over the past decade, focusing on what dairy can expect in the next five years. “Farmers are better prepared for market transitions today than they were in 2009. By 2018, I think we’ll see subdued growth in China’s demand, but the u.s. consumer should begin recovering from the economic downturn. Interest rates will more than likely begin to rise, and price volatility will continue. We’re going to see some major pull back in terms

of policy as well – legislators are going to be forced to take action and make changes if we’re going to be competitive in the global marketplace,” he shared.

Barr drove home the fact that inaction on the u.s. policy front – in his words, “policy paralysis” – is holding the country back from realizing its full economic potential. Case and point: Congress’s inability to compromise on a farm bill.

He closed, “The next five years hold the potential for significant market transition which means there will be more risk involved and premiums

MMPA Leaders’ Conference 2013

Left: MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Dean Fred Poston reiterated the college’s commitment to its Land Grant mission. Top middle: CoBank’s Terry Barr present MMPA leaders with his five-year economy projections and dairy market forecast. Bottom middle: 2013 OYDC Mike and Jordan Noll emceed the conference luncheon. Right: MMPA Director of Finance Joe Diglio updated members on the MMPA Ovid Plant investment.

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awarded for superior management. Global protein and dairy markets will continue to change which will, in turn, change our definition of self sufficiency. no longer will self sufficiency mean just producing enough to meet domestic demand. It will mean having a reliable worldwide supply chain to meet global demand.”

Following Barr’s presentation, President Ken nobis reported on growing dairy export numbers nationwide (15.5 percent of total supply), the real® seal campaign and provided an update on the TB incident in saginaw County which hopefully will not jeopardize Michigan’s split state status.

nobis pledged the industry’s unwavering support for the Dairy security act and the wholehearted commitment to advocating for its approval in the farm bill before the end of the year even though he is frustrated with the lack of progress to date. He also outlined proposed bylaw changes and a district realignment proposal that will be discussed throughout local and district meetings and voted on at the annual meeting. More information about these proposed changes will be featured in the February issue of the Messenger.

nobis’s final note was a broad, reassuring message in regards to ongoing pressure and questions regarding dairy sustainability.

“sustainability is really just telling people what you’re doing – how you’re saving energy, being more efficient and taking care of your animals. We’re already being

sustainable. We just have to be better about sharing these stories with customers and consumers,” he concluded.

During the luncheon, emceed by 2013 outstanding young Dairy Cooperators (oyDC) Mike and Jordan noll, the MMPa Msu scholarship recipients were recognized along with the other district oyDCs. senior Michigan Dairy ambassador Katelyn Horning addressed the crowd and raffled off two free registrations for the 2014 Great lakes regional Dairy Conference.

Canr Dean Fred Poston gave MMPa members an Msu update, emphasizing, “We’re still committed to the land Grant mission and to agriculture. We want to work with you to help better prepare your successors, whether they come from a farm or not.”

after lunch, Galarneau’s presentation covered some of the major co-op action items. He shared: The MMPa board of directors is in the process of reviewing options for possible partnership opportunities to accommodate the membership’s growing milk supply.

a new marketing agency has been created by several of the major milk cooperatives in the Michigan, Indiana and ohio area to consider milk pricing, pooling and balancing agreements to help facilitate more orderly marketing of milk and improve member pay prices.

MMPa’s membership enrollment in the national Dairy FarM Program has grown to 80 percent of the member milk supply.

The gas flush bagger (completed last fall) and new butter churn (which should be online by the end of next summer) are presenting more value-added opportunities to enhance member equity.

Galarneau wrapped up his presentation applauding MMPa members, saying, “MMPa is getting really high quality milk from our members. We have the sCC counts that attract potential customers to Michigan, and that’s where we want to be.”

overall, the conference provided a snapshot of the co-op’s progress and future outlook, setting the stage for three months of member meetings before the MMPa state annual Delegate Meeting on March 20, 2014.

MMPA Owosso Local Wins the MMPAC Challenge

Congratulations to the owosso local for winning the 2013 MMPaC Challenge! The owosso local had the highest percentage of members contribute to the Michigan Milk Political action Committee during the recent fundraising campaign. The will receive a matching gift of up to $1,000 designated toward the local’s choice of one of five charity organizations or youth foundations. Thank you to all of the members who have contributed to the MMPaC!

“MMPA is getting really high quality milk from our members. We have the SCC counts that attract potential customers to Michigan, and that’s where we want to be.” — Clay Galarneau, MMPA general manager

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A s a little girl, my idea of dairy farming had something to do with london’s Dairy ice cream and its milk plant in Port Huron. I

could look through the windows toward the back of the factory and watch the gallon jugs being filled with milk. In the front of the dairy, whether a turtle sundae or chocolate malt, any frozen lactose dessert appeased the soul and mind.

at that point, I had no clue the time and energy that went into farming – none! Marrying Mike opened my eyes to truly hard working, amazing people.

Going to the national Milk Producers Federation (nMPF) young Cooperators (yC) Conference has further expanded my views beyond the little local dairy plant back home. It’s my privilege to share some of the high points from our experience at the yC Conference and nMPF annual Meeting.

one of the biggest, most surprising facts shared throughout the four-day conference is that the u.s. is exporting millions of pounds of milk, butter, cheese and dry milk to China, Mexico, the Middle east and other distant countries through the Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) Program. one out of every seven tanker loads of milk goes oversees. so not only do we have farmers with cows that produce a ton of milk, but we also have amazing marketers and salespeople exporting our products overseas.

The thought process behind producing, marketing and selling can be quite overwhelming. adding to that, we have political agendas to contend with such as europe proposing to sue u.s. dairies for using cheese names such as asiago, Parmesan, Feta and Gorgonzola claiming these names belong to europe. They believe the u.s. should not be able to use these names despite the fact that we have used them for 100 years.

and let’s not forget the ever present farm bill. Will it pass? Won’t it? Will it include the Dairy security act? Does it help fund obamacare?

In all seriousness, as a dairy producer, if we are not

proactive in addressing issues ranging from cow care to consumer conversations to collaborating co-ops, we will lose the battle. What battle you may ask? Farmers face a multitude of issues that are all part of the battle. Issues

2013 NMPF Young Cooperators Conference

By Jordan noll, 2013 MMPa oyDC

MMPA was well-represented at the NMPF YC meeting by (l-r) 2013 OYDC Michael and Jordan Noll; 2012 OYDC Kris and Carla Wardin and 2013 OYDC Runners-up Jeff and Chriss Carmichael.

NMPF YC Coordinator Sarah Olson presents the Wardins with their plaque for serving as the YC Chair couple. (NMPF photo)

such as raw milk vs. pasteurized, organic vs. conventional, rBsT free, the Dairy security act, antibiotics and GMos are just a few.

When you look at this list, you may notice that most have to do with the consumer’s view on products, whether true or misconceived. one of the conference’s wonderful speakers, Bruce Vincent, relayed how people today have a lot of time and money which means they vacation and fall in love with two things: one, natural environment and, two, cultural environment. as people fall in love with their environment, misinformation gets into the media and becomes law, but it is not truth. People have grasped a “Disneyesque utopia” meaning the trees and animals are the good guys and the bad guy that shows up is man (more specifically a “capitalist man”) and we are in fact saving our environment to death.

The well-intentioned environmentalist groups from 40-50 years ago that used to give messages of hope have been mutilated and instead give messages of fear. Fear sells. Truth can win, but truths do no good if they are not talked about. Mr. Vincent emphasized the importance of leading whether by running for office or supporting those who do by volunteering your time. When people lead, others follow.

If society believes they must choose between your business and a clean environment or animal welfare, which will they choose? We as leaders need to articulate how we can have it all. The world is run by those who show up, be it planning boards, legislative hearings, industry gatherings, editorial pages, etc. anything we do makes a difference. Bruce Vincent was in forestry. He came from a logging family in

Chriss and Jeff Carmichael listen to the speakers during the conference.

Continued on page 25

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E ach year, three leading dairy farm organizations, the national Milk Producers

Federation (nMPF), the national Dairy Promotion and research Board (nDB) and the united Dairy Industry association (uDIa), gather for a joint annual meeting.

This gathering of top industry leaders provides a snapshot of current industry trends and a chance to recognize the good work being done on behalf of dairy farmers. Bringing these groups together at one time also provides an insight to the vast number of people working every day to advance the u.s. dairy industry. From the political efforts of nMPF to the promotion and educational efforts of DMI it is reassuring to see the amount of time and effort put forth to support dairy farmers.

at this year’s meeting, Michigan dairy farmers were well represented by MMPa and uDIM board members as well as three young couples. Michigan’s presence at the national level was easily recognizable as MMPa members were recognized for their leadership in different areas. our 2012 oyDCs Kris and Carla Wardin led the young Cooperator annual meeting prior to the start of the joint meeting. The Wardins served this past year as the nMPF young Cooperator Chair Couple. Both Kris and Carla did a fantastic job leading the yC group and were outstanding MMPa representatives. at the conclusion of the yC session, 2013 oyDCs Mike and Jordan noll were selected as the secretary

couple of the nMPF yC advisory Council.

Past MMPa President elwood Kirkpatrick was recognized for his past leadership in dairy promotion with the presentation of the richard e. lyng award. This award is presented to individuals who have worked to advance the efforts of dairy promotion. elwood’s work in developing the u.s. Dairy export Program was noted in the award presentation (see page 12). also receiving recognition for national leadership was Past MMPa Board Treasurer Velmar Green, who was named an Honorary lifetime Director on the nMPF board. This honor was bestowed on Velmar for his 40 plus years on the MMPa board and service on various committees. In addition to the awards and recognition, MMPa President Ken nobis presided over sessions in his role as nMPF first vice-chairman.

Changes in National LeadershipThe 2013 Joint annual Meeting marked the end of Jerry Kozak’s tenure as nMPF Ceo and President as he retires from the federation. Taking over the helm at nMPF is long-time industry leader Jim Mulhern. also retiring at the close of 2013 is Jim Tillison, CWT Chief operating officer.

NMPF’s New Leader Challenges Membership“We need your financial commitment, yes,” Chief operating officer Jim Mulhern told nearly 1,000 attendees at the organization’s annual meeting. “But even more importantly, we need your time and effort and engagement. The more engagement our members have … the more our organization can achieve for our members. It’s a virtuous circle.”

Mulhern will take over as nMPF president and Ceo January 1, 2014, when long-time leader Jerry Kozak

2013 Joint Annual Meeting

NMPF Leaders Jim Mulhern, Jerry Kozak and Randy Mooney greet the audience at the Joint Annual Meeting. NMPF Photo

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retires. The organization is the voice of more than 32,000 dairy producers in Washington.Thirty years ago,” Mulhern said, “nMPF, like many organizations, could be a neatly defined hierarchy, and be successful….But not anymore.” Today, he said, both nMPF and the entire dairy industry must be more engaged in the free and rapid flow of information. “If there’s a message I can leave with you today, it’s that the future of nMPF is not a function of what I want … or any one leader,” he said. “rather, the successful future of nMPF will be a function of the active engagement that our board, our delegates and, yes, our grassroots members, have in the organization and the industry.” Mulhern also stressed the need for increased transparency in the dairy industry. “look at how food marketers have increased the flow of information about their products,” he said. “Twenty years ago, it was calorie and nutrition information on the back panel. Ten years ago, it was absence claims about artificial sweeteners and growth hormones. and now, it’s whether a product is locally and sustainably produced. Whether it can be traced back from the store to a field or barn.” Mulhern called that “transparency in action,” but he added it can also be misused. “The strategy of some food companies is to try to increase sales by scaring consumers into paying more for their particular product because of how it was produced,” he said. “That’s not transparency. It’s fear-based marketing….left unchecked, it not only affects the marketplace; it also affects the policy environment. We must tell our story because if we don’t, others—who don’t have our interest at heart—are telling a very different, and harmful, story.”

Mulhern said transparency requires telling stories about brands and product categories and entire industries. “The clean lines that used to exist between farmer and processor and distributor and retailer have blurred,” he said. “Transparency has created a value chain where everyone is accountable for what they do, and why they do it.” on other subjects, Mulhern said once the 2013 farm bill is enacted nMPF should tackle reform of the federal milk marketing order system and consider addressing some changes to federal identity standards for dairy foods—but only if they benefit farmers.

Continued from page 23 Montana where, despite the fact that a saw mill no longer exists, he still speaks of hope. He said, “Water and animals are next. Don’t make timber’s mistakes.”

as mentioned before, fear sells. Certain companies and special interest groups have clung to this fact. and although we have a very rigorous testing system and GMos have been on the market 20 years with not one incident of health or safety issues, we are seeing an attempt for mandatory GMo food labeling. We have already seen targets on foods such as Chobani® yogurt: “Cows naturally eat grass; factory farm cows are fed a diet of GMo corn, soy, alfalfa and cottonseed. Chobani® uses milk from cows fed GMos. How natural is that?”

In this instance, because activists claim there are GMos in this dairy product, they are advocating to prohibit the use of the word “natural” on the product’s packaging. as we know, GMos are very important as we feed a growing world population. research confirms milk safety. as dairy farmers, we need to enter the natural/GMo conversation. What do consumers want to know? ask them.

The nMPF Conference helped me understand that we are part of something immensely bigger than ourselves, but working together we can accomplish anything. as Herman edwards said at the conference, “you [dairy farmers] have an impact on every child, every person in america. People don’t pat you on the back and you don’t get on sportsCenter, but don’t lose sight.”

Consumers need to know our food standards are high and cow care is essential to us so that they can enjoy their turtle sundae or chocolate malt without any health fears other than wondering how many they can eat without it starting to show on their waistline.

Top: NMPF Chairman Randy Mooney(l) and CEO and President Jerry Kozak (r) present Velmar Green with the Honorary Director for Life citation. Bottom: MMPA board member Jim Reid (r) accepts the Richard E. Lyng Award on Behalf of Elwood Kirkpatrick from NDB Chairman Steve Maddox (l).

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2013-2014 MMPA Quality AwardsM

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Adrian Local Silvereric & randy Bleich *Hartland Farms Inc.Matthew smith Whelan Farms

BronzeTimothy D. Brasher Perry Cisco emmons Farms llCFred Feight & sons Dwight Mansfield Marvin Farms Inc.Gary a. Middleton stoutcrest Farms Vissers Dairy llC

Alma LocalGoldBebow Dairy Inc.De Grins oer Dairyrandy G. Dragt Kevin & ronald litwiller *Paulen Farms Inc.spring lake Farms llC ****

SilverBebow Dairy Inc.louis & ronald BrechtChapin Family Farm llClad & agnes DoolittleDouble-B Dairy *** Cindy eldred Hooks Farms Kent l. Inniger Jeff & larry nielsen

Peters & Peters Dairy Farm Doeke & Melissa Prins **TlC Dairy

BronzeGordon H. Behrenwald arland & ruby CarterDouble eagle Dairy Inc.Joel ensz Basil ervin Jr.Hillhaven Farms Inc.richard D. Hyde Koutz Dairy llCBruce a. litwiller ryan J. litwiller Glen H. Miller Gary & Cory nielsenoberlin Farms llCalbern olson Peacock Farms Pine Hills Dairy llCs & T Farms PTP *newlyn Toews Vanderploeg Holsteins II llCKenneth Vredenburg Mark Wiles William Hough Dairy Inc.

Barry-Eaton LocalGoldCrandall Dairy Farm llC

SilverChase Crest Hill Farms FFHr llCHammond Dairy Farm llC *

leonard, Maxine, andrew & Kevin Pixley

BronzeB & K Farms llCBurdock Hills Dairy llC *Cary Dairy Farms Inc.endsley Dairy Farms llCJacob Mast Miller Vue Farm schuurmans Dairy Farm Inc.

Blossomland Local SilverTerry Koebel & Jerry Koebel Jr. **

BronzeGamble Family

Brown City-Marlette LocalSilverJerry l. Blatt Cumper Dairy Farms Fischer Dairy FarmParr Dairy Farm llCradloff Dairy llC

BronzePatricia & Peggy BachschmidtMuxlow Dairy Farm ** ronald & Wendy PothrDr Dairy Farms llCDavid shoemaker rick l. sutton

Chippewa County LocalSilverTaylor Creek Farm llC

BronzeDavid & Tammy BellDavid a. lamb

Clare-Mt. Pleasant LocalGoldJudge Dairy Farm Inc.

SilverClark Dairy Farm llCelton F. Dubois Gross Dairy Farms Inc.le Var Farms llCrick l. newman

BronzeDaniel & emma CoblentzJack evans Gross Farms Inc.H. Brushaber sons Farm llCHouse Dairy llC **Mark & Becky IciekDonald Kuehl sr. & Family ****James & Mary ann Miller FamilyJonas y. Miller Paul s. Miller stevens Farms

During local meetings, MMPa will present quality awards to 535 member farms in recognition of their outstanding quality milk production. Bronze, silver and gold quality awards will be presented to those members who met the established criteria for each award. This year, MMPa will award 341 bronze, 148 silver and 46 gold awards.

Bronze quality awards are presented to MMPa members who met both quality premium categories (10,000 or less raw bacteria and 20,000 or less PI count) and maintained a somatic cell count of 250,000 or less for nine or more months out of the previous fiscal year. silver quality awards will be presented to those members who met the same criteria as in the bronze award category for 12 months out of the previous fiscal year. Members who qualified to receive a Gold award met the same criteria as in the silver award category and averaged a somatic cell count of 100,000 or less during the previous fiscal year.

star awards will be presented to those members who have received a quality award for five (one star), 10 (two stars), 15 (three stars) or 20 (four stars) consecutive years.

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Constantine LocalGoldThaddaeus Coning Vernon r. Miller

SilverDaniel a. Bontrager Gerald D. Bontrager Milton D. Bontrager Philip D. Bontrager ** neal l. Borkholder Jake r. eicher lamar J. eash larry M. Hershberger alva lengacher Calvin F. Miller David H. Miller Glen F. Miller ****David W. nissley Perkins Twin Creek Farm Inc.Dorvin shaum ** Michael r. stoltzfus Jacob W. Weaver *David e. yoder Freeman e. yutzy

BronzeDave & lorene Beechy alvin D. Bontrager ** Daniel Jay Bontrager Ferman r. Bontrager Jonathon Bontrager Karl M. Bontrager olen J. Fry Michael M. Graber Ira l. Hochstetler * Vernon & Vernon Hochstetler *ervin J. lehman * Jerry D. lehman leland F. lehman enos lengacher naaman Martin David l. Mast Glen r. Mast Herman F. Mast Clyde s. Miller David e. Miller Devon J. Miller

Matthew D. Miller richard J. Miller steven D. Miller Vernon e. Miller Wilbur P. Miller Marion & Marianne MishlerHenry J. Mullett Mybrook Farms Marion nisley Wakiana Dairy Inc.John r. Weaver ernest & erma WengerdDarrel D. yoder Devon ray yoder lyle D. yoder Paul J. yoder Phillip, esther & nathan yoderraymond D. yoder Virgil D. yoder rufus B. Zimmerman *Carl Zook

Dairyland LocalSilverD & J Dairy llC *Mervin G. Dailey **

BronzeDavid Kraft ammon r. Martin anson K. Martin ephraim & esther Martinallen & eileen ramerWilson Centennial Farm llC *leroy o. Zimmerman Titus B. Zimmerman

Deckerville LocalSilverBradley & Brian Boomserdman Farms edward Joe lawler *

Bronzesteven r. Boice robert, Veronica & robert DallasMK Farms llC

Deford/Clifford-Mayville LocalSilverCalvin J. Bodeis * Meadow Muth Farms llCKeith & Jane Wood

BronzeBernard s. Dadacki sunrise Dairy

Evart LocalGoldMichael l. Bosscher Harold, Matthew, Michael & robert CnossenKeith a. Deruiter Dick Haven Farms llCMark F. Diemer ****Doddedale Farms **end road Farm ****Gilde Farms llCleon Hamming Van Polen Farms Wirth Farms llC

Silverronald J. Brinks Daniel DeZeeuw Dairy llCDavid l. Dezeeuw lee’s Woodland Farm llC *sunny side Dairy Zuiderveen Farms

Bronzearis Dairy Farm llCWilliam a. Benson Benthem Brothers Inc.Benthem Homestead Farms Inc. **Timothy J. Bode Dale a. Brinks Buning Dairy Farm llCBWT Farms llC * Gaylord & Gerald DenslowKerwin J. Hamming Harry & Karolyn MartinJerry J. Mitchell ** north acres Dairy rudvan Family Farms llC **

schooley Farm llCMark shaarda andrew leon stanley star City Farm William stein Tacoma Dairy Inc.Jonathan lee Taylor Kenneth & Carol Tebos *Touchdown Dairy yonkman DairyZuiderveen Farms

Flint LocalSilverCole riverview Farms Inc.K & K Kern Farms llC

BronzeWeil Dairy Farm

Frankenmuth LocalSilverschumacher & sons Farms llCrichard r. Wardin

BronzeFowler Dairy llCeric J. Frahm Haubenstricker Dairy Farm llCDennis W. Hetzner Knoll Dairy Farm Inc.larry niec Farms llC *Petzold Dairy Farms llC ****schiefer Farms llC *

* Five consecutive years ** Ten consecutive years*** Fifteen consecutive years**** Twenty consecutive years

Grand Rapids LocalSilverMed-o-Bloom Farms llCPotgeter Farms stoney Hill Farm Inc.

BronzeFranklin s. Bowman Byma Dairy llCFisk Farms John Byma & TeamKlamer Farms Inc.stephen & Denise KnoxKenneth leseman Mark & Cheryl richmond **lance robinson James schaendorf Joel s. starr

Hillman LocalSilverClinton Briley Butterwerth Dairy Farm llC *Brian Centala J & D Dairy Inc.risky endeavor Dairy skudlarek Dairy Farm sweet Farms Inc. Fred, Corby & Cody WerthJoseph P. Zbytowski

BronzeChippewa Dairy llCChristensen Farms Todd Hemmingson Jason & Mary Catherine Dellar & John Jagelewskiandrew e. Kauffman Wilbur Miller nathan & Jodie MitchellMyron siegert never ending Farms Thomas r. newman richard & June oliversauer Dairy Farms Inc. *Galen schalk robert J. Troy eric & Janel Woodwardervin lee yoder Vernon D. yoder

Hillsdale-Litchfield LocalGoldeasterday Dairy Farm

SilverHerman’s Holsteins llC

BronzeDale & Carol BakerChristopher & Beth BrennerDrakeland Farms llCTimothy & Katharina DunnCarlton, Carol, David & Cecelia evansFerry Farms llCrichard & Patricia HawkinsDonald lindsey Pleasant View Dairy James & Barbara WallenDaniel l. Williams

Huron LocalGoldJ&M Block Farms llC

SilverHighland Dairy llCJohn C. richmond & sons Dairy FarmGregory & shelly Messing & ashley KennedyJoseph & Valerie KubackiParamount enterprises Dairy llC *allen & Pamela stilesDaniel Van erp

BronzeDarrin lutz Farms Inc.Delcath Farms Gusa Dairy Farms Hornbacher Farms Timothy & Debra Kubacki *neal laeder David J. leavine loren J. Mazure William C. Mazure nugent’s Farm Dairy oak river Dairy llCPaul G. leipprandt & son Inc.Prime land Farm rose Valley Dairy llCs & M Dairy Inc.starward Farm Dian Volmering Zielland Farms

Ingham County LocalGoldKevin Cavanaugh Msu Dairy - Dept. of animal science

SilverClona Farms llC

Fogle Farms * ron l. launstein larry l. steffey

BronzeGraf acres llClinda Grettenberger Kubiak Family Farms David lyon Msu Kellogg Farm risch Farms

Jackson County Plus LocalSilverHillside Dairy Farms riske Farms ** Williams Family Farm llC

BronzeGrand Valley Farms Howe Farms

Kalamazoo LocalGoldVerHage Dairy Farm **** Webers Meadow llC

SilverClearview Dairy Farm llCDemann Farms llClouis Fifelski Craig & linda Jo newlandrodney & Claude PillarsMelvin T. Puschel VanDenBerg and VanDenBerg

BronzeJames C. Jackson andrew W. Johnson ransler Farms scales Prairie Farm

Lansing LocalBronzeHeyboer Farms Inc.Wayne & Marvin HochstetlerChris, Kristina, Hans & Patricia langmaacklyon Farm llCDonald Walters II Livingston Charter LocalSilverDonal Farm llC

Bronzelarry & Karen adams

Clarinda Farms llCGeorge & Hope FyrciakCharles & Janet White

Menominee-Vacationland LocalSilversteven & Becky BrockKraniak Brothers James & Connie seefeldt

Bronzerobert Paidl Pleasant View Dairy Farm llCVan De Walle Farms llC

Mid-Michigan LocalGoldsteven C. roth larry a. simon * aron W. Whitaker

SilverBerlyn acres II llCCarter acres Dairy * Clintonia road Dairy llCCornerstone II Dairy llCD & M schrader Dairy llCandrew & John FeldpauschMichael T. Hogan Houska Farms Inc.Miller Bros Inc.riverview Dairy llCsanborn & sons llCleroy & stephanie schafer **steenblik Dairy Inc.stony Creek Dairy llCWadell Dairy Farm llC **Wieber Dairy llClisa M. Wilson

BronzeHoward C. andersen IIDavid Castner Thomas & Dianne CookDutch Meadows Dairy llCGeorge Grecu IIIGreen Meadow Farms Inc.H & K Dairy llCGeorge & shirley Hazlelew-Max Holstein llCMcCormack enterprises Inc.alan J. Millernobis Dairy Farms nugentdale Farms llCPeckins Farms llC

2013-2014 MMPA Quality AwardsM

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James J. Pohl Melvin & Pamela PohlGene l. schneider richard & robert skribaslavik Farms Barry & angela stoutT & H Dairy IICliff & Kent ThelenJeffry & Patricia Thelen

Mid-Sanilac LocalSilversteven & lisa alexandersharrard Farms llCWelter Dairy Farms llC

Bronzeroger Markey Timothy Mater noll Dairy Farm Inc. *Harland, Gale & David schultzThomas C. schultz Triple M Farms David M. Varosi raymond & loren Zimmerman

Mid-Thumb LocalSilverGleason Dairy Farm *richard noake

BronzeWilliam & Virginia ankleyandrew a. Brown Blumerich Farms David W. Brusie & sons Inc.Huron-Clinton Metropolitan authorityroger a. Johnson lester, Barbara & susan Knustreid Dairy Farm llCsiegler Dairy Farm llCDonald slesinski Tracy & Theresa sohnalfred, Doris & Duane stueverThomas neil Wagner

Muskegon LocalGoldDonald a. Beattie ** Carson acres llCsueann M. Higgins Koppenol Dairy Farms Inc.

SilverDaniel Boerman Dewey Farm llCWayne Hecksel Powers Dairy Farm llC *riverside Dairy llCsunglow Dairy llCDiane, Gary & Karen Wolford

Bronzeackerberg Farms Tom W. Barends Car-Ver land llCroger J. Deters Doug & shelly ekkelCorliss T. Gulembo IIIlarsen Farms Bruce a. Majeske norris Dairy Farm Inc.Mark rottier silver sky Dairy llCslater Farms 88th llCslowpoke Farm llC *Glen, Casey & andrew sparksstakenas Farms Inc. ***stroven Dairy Farm albert lee Tiles John & Kathryn Troyerrobert & Betty Troyerudder Pressure llCudderside Dairy llCDavid VanderZanden Theodore M. Wolschlager

Owosso LocalSilverDavid sovis *

Bronzereed Dairy Farm llCritter Farms llCsandhill Dairy llCJason szakal

Saline-Ann Arbor LocalSilverBreuninger Farms llCMarcus s. Bristle Horning Farms llCstanley & Patricia lambarth

BronzeJune, nanci & Joy Hamiltonedward & Jane Mamarow

Sunrise LocalGoldanschuetz Dairy Farm llCCedar lane Dairy Farms Circle K Farms Inc. **

SilverCurry Farms Derek Brewer Weber Dairy Farms llC

BronzeJeremy Beebe Bennett Dairy Farm llCnicholas Clark Clemens Dairy Farm Inc.Kenneth & leona DanielsGallagher Dairy Farm Inc.Joseph e. Kauffman Pineview ridge Farm llCPoirier Farms samuel schmucker Jr.Barry Troyer West end Dairy Inc.W-r-l Daniels Farm llCBrad & nicole Wren

Upstate LocalSilverDean edgecomb BronzeMarvin J. rubingh stanek Farm *

West Michigan LocalGoldnienhuis Dairy Farm llC **seth Ponstein Woodbridge Dairy Farm llC *

SilverDaybreak Dairy llCHeritage Farms llC ***arlyn J. Walt

Bronzealflen Dairy Farms Inc. Timothy Baker Haveman Farms llCMark Hilaski Vernon Klinger John & Philip Kuyerslawrence lenhart Melridge Farms * robert & Donna PepperMark & elizabeth PonsteinPyle Dairy Farm Inc.Dennis raterink ** norman TerHaar Delwyn Wedeven Welchkin acres

Western U.P. LocalGoldJacob a. Jahfetson

BronzeD & B Dairy Farm Inc.Herioux Farms llCGary & Teresa Palosaar

* Five consecutive years ** Ten consecutive years*** Fifteen consecutive years**** Twenty consecutive years

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Early registration ends January 17!

Great Lakes Regional DairyConferenceFebruary 6–8 Soaring Eagle Casino and ResortMount Pleasant, Michigan

Here’s just a sampling of what you’ll experience:

• Hear Dr. Normand St-Pierre of The Ohio State University forecast the future of dairying in the Midwest.

• Listen as experts from Rabobank discuss the world’s dairy economy and hear real-world examples for boosting your bottom line.

• Heifers can make or break your operation. Join Dr. Robert James of Virginia Tech University to learn what gives your operation the best return.

• Learn to improve your farm’s meat and milk quality as Dr. Ron Erskine of Michigan State University walks you through ways to reduce risk of drug residue.

• Learn how to get the most out of your parlor when you join Dr. Tom Fuhrmann, owner of DairyWorks, as he shares ways to improve your parlor’s efficiency through cow flow, milking procedures and a focus on cow health.

• Explore topics that will prove beneficial to not only producers but also to farm owners, employee managers, financial managers and businesses that work directly with farms. Sessions will answer questions critical to the success of farming today and in the future:

– Are you following the new labor laws?

– Are you prepared for your next financial or human resources audit?

– What does the Affordable Care Act mean as it applies to your farm?

– How can you prepare and protect your farm from a crisis such as pressure from animal activists, a manure spill or an accident?

– Are there ways you can manage your risk through milk and grain marketing?

• Check out the Great Lakes Commercial Heifer Extravaganza IX Sale and the Exhibitor Showcase.

www.glrdc.msu.edu • 517-884-7089 • honkemeg@msu.edu

Bridging the Gap: Optimizing Nutrition Throughout the Dairy Life Cycle

JANUARY 14 & 15

2014MiDwesT

DAiRY CONfeReNCe

JBS United is excited to announce that we will be hosting our 6th Annual FREE Technical Conference for Dairy Producers in the Midwest.

2014 will again have TWO DATES and LOCATIONS, making it easy and convenient for you to attend, so start planning now! In addition to our educational presentations, there will be various industry professionals and suppliers on hand to answer your dairy questions.

ConferenCe CoSt: freeThese conferences are free, but we do ask you to register. Conferences run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with lunch included.

SpeakerS & topICS:James Drackley, ph.D., Professor of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois. “Setting the Stage: Nutritional Management of the Dry Cow and Young Calf” - Dr. James Drackley

Mike Hutjens, ph.D., Animal Sciences Professor, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “Broadening the Scope of Profitability: Maximizing Longevity and Lifetime Productivity in the Dairy Herd” - Dr. Mike Hutjens

wHo SHoUlD attenD?Anyone in the Dairy Production industry with an interest in animal nutrition (dairy farmers, feed mill customers, industry professionals, etc.).

DateS & loCatIonS:JanUary 14 ConferenCe The James B. Henry Center for Executive Development (www.bus.msu.edu/edc/home.cfm) Michigan State University, 3535 Forest Rd., Lansing, MI 48910, Ph: (517) 353-4350 or (800) 356-5705 Note: Lodging may be available at Candlewood Suites.

JanUary 15 ConferenCe Sauder Village (www.SauderVillage.org) 22611 State Route 2, Archbold, OH 43502, Ph: (419) 446-2541 or (800) 590-9755

regISter onlIne & More InforMatIon:Visit www.MDC.JBSunited.com, or contact Lisa Coverdale, Marketing Manager, by calling either (317) 758-2664 or (800) 382-9909, or email at Lisa.Coverdale@tektm.com.

James Drackley,

Ph.D.

Mike Hutjens,

Ph.D.

tHIS year’S DaIry ConferenCe IS foCUSeD on…

Register at MDC.JBSunited.com

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To order call: 1-800-572-5824 then dial 2

Order Your MMPA Merchandise

through your milk hauler or call:

Supervisor:Duane Farmer 989-681-2334

Fax: 989-681-3988

Toll Free: 877-367-6455Orders (Novi)

800-572-5824 then dial 2

34% minimum protein13% maximum crude fiber

4% minimum fat

Valero Meal

16% maximum fiber6% minimum protein

2.1% maximum calcium2% minimum fat

Citrus PulpLow Fat Hominy7% minimum protein7% maximum fiber4% minimum fat

Improve bottom-line $$. Lower feed costs. Maximize production.Ingredients from your trusted source.

Soybean meal, soybean hulls, cereal feed, cottonseed, distillers, gluten, canola meal, beet pulp, wet feeds, and more!

Traditional ZFS® Menu

Zeeland Farm Services, Inc.® MI: 866.888.7082 Fax: 616.772.7067 www.zfsinc.com

Winter Teat Dips

MERChANDISE

W ith January comes cold weather and this is a good time to think about the use of a “winter dip.” MMPa has two such products

in our warehouse: a&l’s Wintercare and ecolab’s artec. Both products can be used year round, but they are designed specifically for cold weather application.

WintercareWintercare is a very gentle, orange post-dip with 74 percent skin conditioners, moisturizers and emollients that provides excellent skin care. It is formulated with a 1 percent Capric/Caprylic acid combination which provides excellent bacteria kill and mastitis prevention. The unique skin conditioners form a film on the teat surface that helps seal the orifice. extreme weather conditions and cold wind chill may require cows’ teat ends to be blotted after dipping.

Item Stock# Member PriceWintercare -- 5 gallon 3535 $100.66Wintercare – 15 gallon 3536 $289.96

Artececolab’s artec is a blue post-dip that is effective against mastitis-forming bacteria with the use of 1.5 percent heptanoic acid. It was proven to work very quickly in only 15 seconds of kill time. artec also contains a triple blend of emollients for superior teat conditioning (78

percent system including glycerin and lanolin). The dip can be used very well during cold weather as skin protection reducing the need for teat salves or creams. once again, during extreme cold, teat end blotting may be required after dipping.

Item Stock # Member Priceartec – 5 gallon 6064 $95.00 artec – 15 gallon 6981 $273.75artec – 55 gallon 6077 $919.88

Udder CreamFor those of you that do experience some teat chapping or freezing, Ken ag’s udder Cream can help. This product can be used in cold or warm weather. udder Cream softens and soothes chapped teats and udders in wintertime and aids in the prevention of dryness during sunny and windy summer conditions. Caution: To avoid contamination of milk, thoroughly wash and dry udder and teats before each milking using an individual clean towel.

Item Stock # Member Priceudder Cream 14 oz. tub 5710 $4.69

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These are service personnel only. order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB24 - Hour Medical Emergency

Hotline: 1-800-328-0026 For service, call the

ecolab service Message Center 1-800-392-3392

orstan Palmer

5303 e. swan Drive #3Port Clinton, oH 43452

419-797-2101

Ben Johnson4461 Cambridge Dr.

Port Huron, MI 48060810-824-0636

Jason Koerth7509 aborcrest Dr.Portage, MI 49024

269-207-3773

Pat Mitchell7273 n. rollin Hwy.addison, MI 49220

517-403-0928

A & L Laboratories24 - Hour Medical Emergency

Hotline: 1-800-424-9300

Kurt Fiene8356 C.r. 115

Kenton, oH 43326612-889-1063

Jeff TimmnW 8665 C.r. M

shawano, WI 54166612-840-0555

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

scheduled Herd Tests $1 Scheduled Herd Test samples are tested for: Culture for streptococcus agalactiae, strep non ag, staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative staph, coliform and sCC.

Additional testing can be coordinated through your MMPA Member Representative to include: raw bacteria count and components.

All herd tests must be scheduled with the laboratory through your MMPA Member Representative.

Members who choose to receive their lab test results via U.S. postal service: $2/month

Additional Tests Available: All costs are listed per individual sample. • Mycoplasma Cultures $12• Bacteriology Cultures $13 – Includes identification of bacteria

and drug susceptibility.

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea - PCr $40 - elIsa $ 6• Johne’s Milk Test - PCr $40 - elIsa – cows $ 6 - elIsa – tank $10

• Bovine leukosis Test - elIsa – cows $ 6 - elIsa – tank $10• Milk Pregnancy elIsa $4.50

All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA Member Representative or the laboratory for proper sample submission protocol.

somatic Cell Count premiums and deductions (in addition to Federal order sCC adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels:

50,000 or below +55¢/cwt.51,000-75,000 +50¢/cwt.76,000-100,000 +45¢/cwt.101,000-125,000 +40¢/cwt.126,000-150,000 +35¢/cwt.151,000-175,000 +30¢/cwt.176,000-200,000 +25¢/cwt.201,000-225,000 +20¢/cwt.226,000-250,000 +15¢/cwt.251,000-300,000 +00¢/cwt.301,000-400,000 - 30¢/cwt.401,000-500,000 -$1.00/cwt.501,000-600,000 -$1.50/cwt.601,000 and greater -$2.00/cwt.

A payment of 5¢/cwt. will be added for each of the following, if the count is equal to or below:

• 10,000 raw Bacteria Count• 20,000 Pre-Incubated (PI) Count

There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for:

• Greater than 100,000 raw Bacteria Count

a high raw count deduction will be waived if the producer has received the quality premium the previous three months for raw bacteria count.

To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month:

• Positive drug residue • abnormal freeze points• High load count shipment or rejected load shipment• #3 or #4 sediment• raw Bacteria count over 100,000The count levels for raw and PI will be determined on one test run per month.

To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be:

• no abnormal freeze points during the month

To qualify for MMPA volume premiums there must be:

• no abnormal freeze points during the month• an average somatic cell count of 750,000 or less

MMPA Quality Premium Program

MMPA Member Testing Fees

Chemical, Sanitizer & Teat Dip Contact Information

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Freeliner PolicyThe Freeliners column is open to current MMPa members who wish to advertise—at no charge—goods or services relating directly to their dairy farm operations.

• an item submitted will be published for no more than two consecutive months (one month, unless otherwise requested). after that, it will be withdrawn.

• It will be published again for no more than two consecutive months only if the member resubmits the item by writing or calling the novi office.

• reference to a name of a firm or other commercial enterprise with which a member is involved will be deleted, with permission of the member.

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

• Freeliners must be received by the 10th of the month preceding the desired month of publication. example: to be included in the January issue, the freeliner must be at the MMPa office by December 10.

BullsRegistered Holstein Bulls: We now have a nice selection of service age bulls, sired by top aI sires. Green Meadow Farms, elsie, MI. 989-862-4291 or see our website at www.greenmeadowfarms.com.

Service age Holstein bulls. Call steve alexander, 810-622-8548 evenings or 810-404-8548.

Service age Reg. Holstein bulls, deep pedigrees, some red carriers. Jenesis Genetics, 231-924-6163 or 231-225-8615.

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

Crossbred bulls from november. 810-724-8825.

Cows & Heifers45 cow Jersey herd due from april thru July 2014, 100% aI bred, grazing herd, excellent breeding. Contact sweet Farms, Midland, Mich. 989-736-6508. no milk assignment please.

High quality milk cows, 80 pound average on 2X, your pick. 734-776-0285.

40 Holstein dairy cows. 30 Holstein springer heifers for Jan, Feb. and March. 810-837-0192.

Equipment“Roto Grind” bale chopper, model 760, 1,000 rPM. Chops to any size bale, eliminates cows sorting feed. new 12-6-11, perfect condition, and is stored under cover. selling because we bought a JD silage baler. $14,500. Cheboygan, Mich. 231-625-2036.

White 2-105 Cab Tractor, approx. 5,000 hours, well maintained. also, various skid loader bucket attachments. Call 574-214-8185.

John Deere 130 Reel Style seed mixer, partially relined in 2012, $9,000 obo. 734-776-0285.

New Holland model 900 chopper with hay head, $6,500 obo. new Holland self-unloading wagons, $2,000 each obo. Call sweet Farms 989-736-6508.

Case-IH 900 cyclo 6 row corn planter. Corn and Bean drums $4,500 obo. Gehl-McConnell hay merger 14-16 feet $2,200 obo. Phone 989-640-4414

New Holland FP230 chopper, 3-row corn head, hay head. excellent shape. Call 989-464-5436 or 989-464-5435.

Dairy EquipmentPoly Square Big Foot Calf Hutch/Nursery with chain and necklace kit (nylon collars). 5’ wide X 7’6” long; Weighs approx. 130 pounds; stackable; easy cleaning; easy access bottle holder. Bucket holder with (2) 5-quart buckets; fence brackets; rear vent; center flow adjustable vent. approximately 25 available, $250.00 each. some brand new. 231-499-2911 or riversidedairyllc@gmail.com. (ludington, MI) http://www.polydome.com/big_foot_calf_nursery.html

Two Delaval CF1000 Computer Calf Feeders with 4 nipples and laptop with software. Will feed milk or milk replacer, $17,500 for everything or could split them up too. 517-749-9112.

Calf-Tel hutches. 616-634-2958.

Dairy FarmDairy Farm, Cheboygan, Mich. 367.11 acres. 25x56 double 16 parallel parlor put in 3 yrs. ago, 2,000-gal. bulk tank, 400 free-stall barn, 48x100 calf barn, 80x80 commodity barn, 64x280’ hay barn, 32x56 maternity barn, 44x100 tool pole barn. 45 acre pasture by barn. 7-bedroom l shaped brick home, built 1976. Can send packet with more info & appraisal if interested. Turn key operation if you want cows & equipment, or will sell farm separate. We also rent 670 acres paying $40 ac. most acres, less amt. David Brown, Cheboygan, Mich. 231-625-2036.

Silver Sky Dairy, LLC. and its re, Hesperia (newaygo Co.) MI.  928 acres owned (670 tillable); 150 rented.  Double-10 herringbone Delaval Blue Diamond parlor, 96x312’ free stall barn, 285 stalls, 5000-gal tank, 80x120’ heifer barn, 32x108’ sunroof calf barn; several outbuildings for hay/equipment storage, bulk commodity bins, silos. 4 houses on property. 300 mostly registered Holstein herd and 300 heifers, all aI w/top TPI/$nM bulls, DHIa rHa 25,000#milk, 960#fat, 100,000sCC, culled hard. 3 seasons graze dry and mid-lactation cows. equipment available for purchase as well. no young generation to take over. Frank & shari Konkel, lance & nancy Johnson.  Barn ph. 231-854-4602. e-mail for more info: shari_konkel@frontier.com.

Misc.Herdsman for 500 cow dairy. Call 810-577-3894, ask for everett.

Approx. 3,000 bales of small squares 2nd and 3rd cutting alfalfa. approx. 200 big squares of 2nd and 3rd cutting alfalfa. 810-837-0192.

Wanted310 or 311 New Holland baler. Farmhand grinder mixer. 260-768-4550 ext. 2.

Guernsey to purchase for 4-H showman. Virginia ankley 810-724-8077.

12 string type detachers, complete, used. 260-705-8185.

Used bulk tanks for storage and other stainless steel tanks 200 gal. to 3,000 gal. 989-826-5453.

Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 202 to place your ad or email to: Muszynski@mimilk.com or fax 248-426-3412.

FREELINERS

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Mail ads to: Classified ads, Michigan Milk Messenger, Po BoX 8002, novi, MI 48376-8002. email to Muszynski@mimilk.com or fax 248-426-3412. ads must be received by the 10th of the month before the month of desired publication. send check or money order for $20 for up to 6 lines with your order. MMPa neither sponsors nor endorses products or services advertised in the Messenger.

ClassifiedAds($20peradupto6lines)

1-800-248-8070

M-40 South

Hamilton, MI 49419

PTO and Automatic

Start Generators

GeneratorsWinpower & KatolightStocking up to 100 KW

24 HourEmErgEncy SErvicE

serving Michiganfor the past 30 years800-345-1887

Midwest Power systeMs

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS

a special herd sire or a truck load of breeder bulls. ready to go to work on your farm!

GREEN MEADOW FARMS

• sired by the top sires from the u.s. and canada

• from our top production cows.

www.greenmeadowfarms.com6400 hollister rd.

elsie, mi 48831ph: 989-862-4291

over 100 service age bulls for your selection!

Concrete Grooving and TexturingCall: Jeff Brisky - Owner

Toll Free: 1-800-294-1202Cell: 1-716-353-1137

Concrete Services Company

CLASSIFIEDS

OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can fix your scabbled floors. Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking of concrete. no hoof damage. Call opperman Grooving Inc., Portland. 517-647-7381.

DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: no water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better traction. We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. 3 operators will travel Michigan and other states. no interest payment terms. est. since 1987. Call 1-800-365-3361.

CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-STATE SCABBLING, home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices. (800) 554-2288. www.tristatescabbling.com

A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/texturing brings existing grooves back to 100% efficiency & provides high quality traction in new & old concrete, fast service. Blue rIBBon HooF TrIMMInG, llC. 989-635-1494.

FOR SALE: 5000-4000-3000-2500-2000-1500 OH MUELLER LATE MODEL BULK TANK MILK TANKS, complete, will trade. 1-800-558-0112.

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

JUNE CLOVER SEED, MICHIGAN CERTIFIED oats and spring barley seed. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

CORN SILAGE, HAYLAGE & HAY. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

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MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTEDIf a member suspects milk in the farm bulk tank contains drug residue:

1. Call a MMPa Member representative to have the milk in the tank tested. a “hold” must be placed on the tank contents until the test results are known. - or -

2. The member can test the milk on the farm. If dumped, the member must be sure to take the stick reading, record the number of pounds of milk and report the information to their membership representative.

• If the tank tests negative (no drugs present), the milk may be released and shipped.

• If the tank tests positive (drugs present), the membership representative will authorize the member to dump the tank of milk. The member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.*

• If for any reason MMPa personnel must pick up samples at the farm for testing three or more times within 12 consecutive months, the member involved will be charged $25 per trip.

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

If a loss is incurred by MMPa due to the disposal and/or non-marketability of a load of milk or milk products containing drug residue, then the member responsible will be provided an invoice for the entire value of the loss plus transportation and disposal costs as required by the Pasteurized Milk ordinance. This invoice may be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPa must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made.

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

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

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

MMPA Policy on Drug Residue in Milk:

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

If the milk is dumped, the member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.*

In order to receive payment for an added water voluntary dump, the member must install a swingline safety switch. The swingline safety switch can be ordered from the st. louis warehouse. The MMPa Member representative will verify the switch has been installed. reimbursement for the swingline safety switch and the voluntary dump will then be made to the member.

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

MILK SHIPPED – HIGH BACTERIA COUNTIf: 1. a load of milk is received (unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. a sample from the load has a bacteria count of 300,000 or more and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members having a bacteria count of 300,000 or more, then the member or members involved will be charged the value of one-half of one day’s production** and will be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums.

**For members using more than one bulk tank, the assessment will be based on the value of milk in the tank or tanks in violation of the MMPA quality policy.* The member will only be paid for two (2) voluntary dumps in a rolling 12 month period.

REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENTIf: 1. a load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. the milk cannot be sold through normal Grade a channels for reasons of quality which results in the load being sold or disposed of at a loss to MMPa, and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members that caused the contamination or rejection of the load, then, the member or members responsible will be charged the full value of the loss to MMPa plus transportation and disposal costs, and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums except for loads rejected for temperature. 4. MMPa will provide an invoice to the member for the amount of the loss, to be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPa must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made. If a member has a third occurrence or more within 12 consecutive months, that member must appear before the MMPa board of directors to review steps taken on the farm to correct the quality problem which will enable MMPa to continue to market the milk for this member.

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

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

POLICIES

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MARKET STATISTICS Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

Mideast Federal Order #33

COMPONENT PRICING INFORMATION Mideast Federal Order #33

NATIONAL TRENDS(million pounds)

This Month Year Ago % Change

Total Class 1 sales 556,102,493 560,604,832 -0.80

Total Class 2 sales 150,388,783 225,084,127 -33.19

Total Class 3 sales 480,924,426 322,542,678 +49.10

Total Class 4 sales 118,520,173 201,054,104 -41.05

Total Production 1,305,935,875 1,309,285,741 -0.26

Class 1 utilization 42.6% 42.8%

Current Month Total Producers 6,130average Daily Production per Farm 7,101average Protein Test 3.25%average Butterfat Test 2.89%average other solids Test 5.71%average sCC Count (MMPa) 158,000

Protein Price/lb. $3.6316

Butterfat Price/lb. $1.6336

other solids Price/lb. $0.3955

Class III Price @ 3.5% $ 18.83

Prod. Price Diff/cwt. (Mich. Mkt.) $1.09

uniform Price @ 3.5% $ 19.92

sCC adjustment/cwt./1000 $0.00093

2013 2012 % ChangeProduction California 3,284 3,264 +0.6

Wisconsin 2,205 2,218 -0.6

new york 1,080 1,058 +2.1

Idaho 1,072 1,092 -1.8

Pennsylvania 845 847 -0.2

Texas 779 761 +2.4

Michigan 733 729 +0.5

Minnesota 725 739 -1.9

new Mexico 641 646 -0.8

Washington 502 493 +1.8

ohio 425 435 -2.3

Indiana 308 299 +3.0

* Total u.s. 14,979 14,929 +0.3

* u.s. y-T-D 171,994 170,955 +0.6

* For 23 states

Monthly avg

Cheese /lb 1.8612

Butter /lb 1.5205

nonfat Dry Milk /lb 1.8892

Dry Whey /lb 0.5831

NASS Survey Prices

MARKET REPORT

November 2013

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STAFFMMPA

General ManagerClay Galarneau, ext. 200

Member ServicesDean Letter, ext. 213

Milk Sales/DispatchCarl Rasch, ext. 244

Finance/ControllerJoseph M. Diglio, ext. 240

Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula, ext. 219

Manufactured Product SalesJim Dodson, ext. 229

QualityAhmandeep Dhillon, ext. 304

Credit/InsuranceCheryl Schmandt, ext. 210

Human ResourcesCindy Tilden, ext. 220

Member Relations/Public AffairsSheila Burkhardt, ext. 208

Data Processing Gregory Schulkey, ext. 237

Member Communications Laura Moser, ext. 296Alex Schnabelrauch, ext. 211

Novi: 800-572-5824 (in MI) 800-233-2405 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mon-Fri

Ovid: 989-834-2515 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily

Constantine: 800-391-7560 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily

MMPA Labs

If you are unable to reach your assigned member representative, contact any one of the representatives listed in your area.

NORTH AREA Supervisor: Gerry Volz st. louis office 989-289-9219

Frank Brazeau 920-834-4059oconto, Wis., cell: 906-250-0337

Ben Chapin Blanchard 989-289-0731

Lyndsay Earl ludington 231-519-2455

Angelee Kirsch Harbor Beach 231-414-4539

Violet Lombard Hubbard lake 248-520-3481

Deborah Navarre leroy 248-520-3580

Lindsay Green Dewitt 989-488-8159

Gerry Volz 989-848-5996Fairview 989-289-9219

Merchandise—St. LouisDuane Farmer, supervisor 989-681-2334 Fax 989-681-3988 Toll Free 877-367-6455 orders (novi) 800-572-5824 then dial 2

MANUFACTURING PLANTS

Constantine269-435-2835Plant ManagerDave Davis

Ovid989-834-2221

NOVI (Headquarters)248-474-6672 • 800-572-5824

MMPA FIELD STAFF

Monthly avg

Cheese /lb 1.8612

Butter /lb 1.5205

nonfat Dry Milk /lb 1.8892

Dry Whey /lb 0.5831

SOUTH AREA Supervisor: Ed Zuchnik Coldwater office 269-967-7351

Krista Beeker Howe, In 269-986-6792

David Brady 517-522-5965Grass lake cell: 517-937-9061

Emily Butcher Middlebury, In 269-535-0822

Andrew Rupprecht Clio 269-986-6793

Elyse Martin eaton rapids 810-701-6460

Ed Zuchnik Three rivers 269-967-7351

Other Services:Gary Best 810-664-4984lapeer cell: 586-484-9279Bulk Tank Calibration

Katie Pierson Coleman 989-289-9686Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor

Steven Lehman 989-875-3441Ithaca cell: 989-330-1638Mastitis Management

Christy Dinsmoore Fairgrove 989-528-9102Mastitis Management

Plant Manager/Plant OperationsDavid Wittkop

12/13 USDA-CDCB/HAUSA/AJCA/BSCBA/ABA Genomic Evaluation. 12/13 USDA-CDCB/AGA/AMSS Type Evaluation. •Eligible for semen export to Canada. ™JUI is a trademark of the American Jersey Cattle Association. SMGTPI is a servicemark of Holstein Association USA. *Limited semen availability.

When you are searching for total performance sires to add to your breeding program look no further than Select Sires. Leading sires for Net Merit, Type and total performance indexes in all six major dairy breeds call Select Sires home. Place your order today!

Total Performance Leaders GTPI NM$ Rel.% Type Rel.%•7HO10721BOOKEM +2257 +691 91 +2.79 95 7HO10524ROBUST* +2248 +765 90 +1.95 93•7HO10849SHAMROCKNew+2227 +711 87 +2.79 86•7HO10228GULF +2214 +575 88 +2.84 93•7HO10606OBSERVER +2186 +654 93 +2.64 98•7HO10679KIDNew +2170 +679 87 +1.88 90•7HO10690PLANNew +2158 +649 86 +1.90 87•7HO10700MAUSERNew +2146 +675 87 +1.56 89•7HO10723SPURNew +2139 +528 85 +2.71 87 GPPR NM$ Rel.% Type Rel.%•7BS826 AUGUST*TM +175 +435 76 +0.8 79•7BS828 MVP*TM +147 +328 76 +0.3 80 PPR NM$ Rel.% Type Rel.%•7MS346 ACE +131 +374 78 +0.1 74

GJPI NM$ Rel.% Type Rel.% 523JE927MAGNUMJH1F +221 +637 86 +0.9 93•7JE1046 ZIPPERJH1F +221 +520 80 +0.6 79•7JE1038 VALENTINOJH1C +215 +461 92 +2.4 97•7JE1067 GOLDAJH1FNew +211 +416 79 +1.8 73 PTI NM$ Rel.% Type Rel.%•7GU398 ALSTAR +146 +444 82 +0.5 92•7GU405 GRUMPY* +133 +415 80 +1.1 90 GPTI NM$ Rel.% Type Rel.%•7AY84 BURDETTE +534 +350 92 +1.9 93•7AY87 POWER +534 +419 75 +0.4 66

SM

Largephotos(ltor):Golden-OaksBookemDemi-ET(VG-85),GoldenOaksFarm,Wauconda,Ill.,Erbsen andB&ZSSIS-RockOdele7366-ET(VG-85),JohnZook,Eden,Wis.,Erbsen. Smallphotos(toptobottom):JarsOfClayValentinoBridget(VG-88%),JimQuist,Fresno,Calif.,NorthLanesAugustDime“VG88”,secondlactation,BlessingFarms,Ft.Wayne,Ind.;Melody-LaneBurdetteSally,firstfive-year-oldandreservegrandchampion,InternationalAyrshireShow,2013,KaylynWood,Saranac,N.Y.andLangHavenAlstarNuance(VG-85-VG-85-MS),KirstieandJennaLangrehr,WestSalem,Wis.

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