Messenger www.mimilk.com

Vol. 96 Issue 3september 2013

OYDC Conference - Dairy Days – New Plant Equipment

Michigan Milk

The official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association

Inside

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EDITOR’S LETTER

4 MMPA MattersTime for Dairy Farmers to Step Up

6 Quality WatchMMPA Wishes Preston Cole Best of Luck in his Retirement

8 News & ViewsGrowing Michigan Dairy Industry Creates Need for Skilled Workforce

10 Legislative WatchPromising Start to Immigration Reform Turns to Frustration

FEATURES

11 MMPA Launches New WebsiteNew Content, New Portal for Members

12 2013 Dairy Days Dairy Youth Compete in

Dairy Activities

16 Dave VanderHaagen RetiresMMPA Legal Counsel Retires after 35 Years of Service

18 2013 OYDC ConferenceYoung Cooperators Gather in Novi to Learn About Their Co-op

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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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20 District OYDCs Meet the 2013 District Winners

22 Speaking with One Voice

MMPAC Still Relevant, Necessary and Effective

24 Unlocking Overseas Market

Ovid Plant Installs Gas Flush Bagging System for Milk Powder

28 Merchandise29 Quality Premiums30 Freeliners32 Classifieds33 Policies34 Market Report35 Staff

Cover Story“big Dreams” the latest release from bonnie mohr studios, captures the essence of the many young people that participated at this year’s michigan Dairy expo. see page 12 for a recap of Dairy Days. to order “big Dreams,” contact bonnie mohr studios at (800) 264-6647 or visit bonniemohr.com.

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

Departments18

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When Congress began its summer recess in early August having taken no positive action in the House on a farm bill, many of us were singing the farm bill blues.

some now wonder if we will ever see a “new” farm bill. there appear to be three options at this point: extend the current legislation again, let the current bill expire, or compromise and pass what would now be a 2013 farm bill.

until this summer, I have been positive that Congress would pass a farm bill. After all, the senate Agriculture Committee and the full senate passed a reasonable bill in both 2012 and 2013. the House Agriculture Committee, with strong bipartisan support, voted a bill out of committee in both 2012 and 2013. but then the fireworks began in the House when the full House voted down the proposal on June 20, 2013. subsequently the House passed a farm-portion-only bill after stripping the supplemental Nutrition Assistance program (sNAp) portion from the comprehensive farm bill, even though over 500 agricultural organizations opposed the stripped-down version.

the senate says they won’t stand for another extension of the current legislation. they have also nixed the idea of leaving the sNAp program out of a farm bill. the House, on the other hand, insists

that massive cuts in sNAp are a must and that sNAp needs to be separate from the farm portion of the farm bill. If all of this is not just rhetoric and compromise is impossible, then the outlook for passage of a farm bill is indeed very bleak.

Does that leave you wondering where you stand? It does me. We heard from countless numbers of producers in 2008 and 2009 about the tremendous cost/price squeeze they were experiencing and how we needed to develop a better national dairy program that provided less volatility while at the same time kept the u.s. producer competitive in foreign markets. It was a fair request, and I think the National milk producers Federation (NmpF), with input from dairy farmers representing various producer interests, formulated a plan of action that answered that request. I know the vast majority of dairy producers around the country, who took the time to study and understand the proposal, came to the same conclusion.

What I don’t understand is why that conclusion has not led to action by the same producers. We can now be part of the solution. Congress isn’t hearing from us often enough or loud enough to make them want to bring the farm bill discussions to a reasonable conclusion. I haven’t had a phone call from a member complaining about milk prices since June of 2012, and in our market area I get that. even though feed costs have been unusually high, the margin

has been adequate. We can’t be shortsighted, though, because a squeeze like 2008 and 2009 can happen again and might not be far off.

u.s. milk production has grown moderately despite the fact that western dairy producers have had very serious problems with those same high feed costs we’ve experienced. If we have a decent national corn and soybean harvest this fall that leads to a drop in feed costs, how much milk will we produce? It doesn’t take much of an increase to send milk prices south. Do we really want to keep experiencing these repeated boom/bust cycles, or do we want more continuity? I believe we want continuity, and this means it is time for dairy producers across the nation to step up and contact their elected officials.

even though dairy farmers make up far less than 1 percent of the population (maybe only .06 percent) we could have a positive impact on the outcome of the fall session of Congress and see a farm bill completed that includes the Dairy security Act. the fact that our numbers are small makes it even more imperative that we take action. It’s not too late to do something about the farm bill and help take better control of our markets. the opponents of a farm bill are in constant contact with Congress. Contact your Congress member early and often to say that you want a farm bill that includes the Dairy security Act.

Time For Dairy Farmers to Step Up

byKen NobisPresident

MMPA MATTERS

2 June 2012 Michigan Milk Messenger 3

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Preston Cole has a long history in Michigan’s dairy industry. He is the son of a long-time MMPA milk hauler, Preston “Pep” Cole, of Cedar Springs. He received his Bulk Milk License in 1965 at the age of 13 and spent summers working with his father.

At that time, pep was hauling into mmpA’s milk plant in saranac. eventually, the milk was delivered to the pump-over stations in muskegon and lowell.

In 1977, preston was hired as a member representative and initially worked out of the lowell pump-over station. A year later, he relocated to Northern michigan and received his license to test butterfat using the babcock method. preston tested milk at mmpA’s sault ste. marie plant until the mmpA lab took over testing duties several years later. Considering preston’s background, he was a natural fit for member representative.

preston’s creativity allowed him to contribute to mmpA in some unique roles. In 1996, he created artificial udders for milker training purposes. the first udders were made from foam and latex.

In 2001, preston created ceramic udders to increase durability and weight. these udders are currently used in mmpA’s milker training schools and other educational programs. preston also has an “eye” with the camera, contributing many photos of mmpA member farms to grace the covers of the Michigan Milk Messenger and Hoard’s Dairyman magazines. much has changed during preston’s 36-year tenure as member representative. thirty-six years ago, mmpA had 4,760 member farms producing an average of nearly 600,000 pounds per year. mmpA marketed 2.8 billion pounds of milk, receiving an average all-milk price of $9.71 per cwt. today, mmpA has about 1,300 member farms producing an average of over 3 million pounds per year. market receipts have increased from 2.8 billion to 4.3 billion pounds.

As a testament to members’ ability to increase production efficiencies, over 1 billion pounds of additional milk have been produced with almost 3,500 fewer member farms.

preston was on hand to help members deal with changes in production facilities. over the course of his tenure, many members transitioned from bucket milkers or simple pipelines in stanchion barns to sophisticated parlors and robotic milking machines. on the environmental

side, preston saw the effects of the Clean Water Act, passed five years prior to his start with mmpA, to codification of the michigan Agriculture environmental Assurance program in 2011.

preston has seen many changes to michigan’s dairy industry and 35 years from now, his successors will have just as many stories to tell. several months ago, mmpA hired two member representatives – Deb Navarre and Violet lombard – to service preston’s territory plus additional area to the south. preston’s territory will be split into two from north to south along I-127 with Deb servicing the western half and Violet servicing to the east.

over the past few weeks, Deb and Violet have been canvassing their work area to introduce themselves. business cards have been left in the blue milkhouse binders for members’ reference.

the staffing change will also allow mmpA to increase its focus on sustainability efforts such as energy audits. As mmpA goes through staffing changes, please consult the inside back cover of the Michigan Milk Messenger or call the Novi office for your member representative’s contact information.

byDean LetterDirector, Member Services

QUALITY WATCh

MMPA Wishes Preston Cole Best of Luck in his Retirement

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NEWS & VIEWS

July Milk Markets

the u.s. Department of Agriculture announced that July’s Class III price is $17.38, down 64 cents from June, but 70 cents above last June. the Class IV price is $18.90, up 2 cents from June, and $4.45 above 2012.

Nolls Named 2013 MMPA OYDC

michael and Jordan Noll of Croswell, mich. have been named mmpA’s 2013 outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators (oYDC). the Nolls were selected by a panel of three industry expert judges after the annual oYDC Conference held August 15-16 in Novi. they represent District 8 and the mid-sanilac local. As mmpA oYDC, they will represent mmpA at several state and national events including the National milk producers Federation Annual meeting in Arizona in November. Jeff and Chriss Carmichael of reed City were named the 2013 oYDC runners-up. the Carmichaels represent mmpA District 5 and the evart local.

Growing Michigan Dairy Industry Creates Need for Skilled WorkforceNew study reveals shortage of qualified labor available for dairy industry

Michigan’s dairy industry is growing and looking to hire additional workers according to a new study released by the Agricultural Leaders of Michigan (ALM). According to the study, while many farmers need to hire workers, they are finding it difficult to hire qualified workers to fill their workforce needs.

The study was conducted by Bill Knudson, an economist with the Michigan State University Product Center for Agriculture and Natural Resources, in conjunction with the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA). The study focused on the labor needs of MMPA members.

“Dairy is Michigan’s top agricultural commodity, and the industry is on track to continue growing, creating jobs and contributing to Michigan’s vibrant agricultural economy,” said Ken Nobis, president of MMPA. “The industry needs to have a qualified labor force so that we can take advantage of opportunities for growth. This survey is the first step to ensure we’re aligning employee skills with the current and future needs of agriculture in Michigan so the industry can continue to expand and contribute to Michigan’s economy.”According to Nobis, increasing milk production in Michigan has created a trend toward larger dairy farms — those with 400 cows or more. The study notes that these larger operations tend to require more highly skilled employees, suggesting that the industry should focus on developing additional agricultural training programs and identifying career paths for advancement to keep up with industry trends.

The survey identified several steps that could be taken to aid the recruitment of employees including:• The development of an online job bank• Standardizing job titles and descriptions across the industry to

make it easier for employers to communicate opportunities and recruit employees

• Reaching out to students and parents to educate them about career opportunities in the industry

In response to the study, MMPA, along with other dairy industry representatives, are exploring opportunities to develop an online job bank to help match employers with qualified workers.

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JULMAY

MARJan-13

NOVSEPJUL

MAYMAR

Jan-12

Class IIIClass IV

Class III and Class IV Price Trends

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MMPA Constantine and Ovid Plants World Dairy Expo ChampionsJust the third year submitting entries to the World Dairy Expo Championship Dairy Product Contest, the MMPA Constantine and Ovid plants were awarded two first place and two second place awards. The Constantine Plant received first and second place in the unsalted butter category as well as second in the salted butter division. Ovid placed first in the whipping cream and heavy whipping cream category. Congratulations to all of our plant employees and high-quality-milk-producing members on a job well done!

Upcoming Events

September 11 MMPA Advisory Committee Meeting Lansing

NEWS & VIEWS

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MMPA Carney August 2013

Bloniarz Farms Dave Cappaert*Getz-Milk Dairy LLC Sherwin Wilson Pleasant View Dairy Farm LLC Steven/Becky Brock Robert Paidl*Milton Patz Kraniak Brothers *Scored 100 percent

Producers scoring 95 percent or more on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Rating

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Promising Start to Immigration Reform Turns to Frustration

A fter a promising start in 2013, efforts to reform America’s immigration

policies have stalled in the House of representatives, and frustration is beginning to spread in the organizations that have worked on the issue, from agriculture, to the business community, to religious groups.

Democrats have said immigration reform should include a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, but many republicans have said they will not support legislation containing such a provision. Instead, House republicans are pursuing a number of smaller bills, each addressing a piece of the puzzle, including border security, agriculture workers and high-skilled visas.

majority leader eric Cantor (r-Va.) and Judiciary Committee Chairman bob Goodlatte (r-Va.) are leading the immigration reform efforts, including a bill to legalize undocumented young people who came to the u.s. as children. but their efforts do not include any easy path to legalization for their parents or any other currently undocumented workers. A seven-member bipartisan group in the House has been working for several months on comprehensive legislation

with a path to citizenship, but they haven’t been able to find common ground on all issues, including how to deal with the extent to which those affected by immigration reform will be treated under the new healthcare reform law.

rep. Cantor has said the House will hold a series of votes at some point, but he hasn’t been clear on the timing for them. rep. paul ryan, chair of the budget Committee, has said the House will vote this fall on several reform components.

since the senate has already passed a comprehensive immigration reform bill, the ball is in the House’s court. the majority of Americans strongly believe that immigration reform must be dealt with immediately, and any legislation should address border security, currently undocumented workers and the future flow of new workers. the process will continue this fall once Congress returns from its August recess.

LEgISLATIVE

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In addition to our standard farm policy, we offer an optional Parlor Pak to meet the needs of your dairy farm.

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www.liebleragency.com810-346-2738

Barnich Kavanaugh & Cooper, BKC Ins.(Northern Michigan)

www.bkcinsurance.com231-627-4381

Insuring Your Farm’s Protection

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M mpA recently launched a new website, adding updated content,

pictures and member resources to both the public facing site and “members only” portal of www.mimilk.com. While the previous, 13-year-old site’s overall design received a major facelift, many tried and true features remain intact.

Clay Galarneau, mmpA general manager, comments, “our goal was to give the website a more modern look and improve the navigation and functionality of the site. However, we kept the same basic information and formatting to improve members’ ease of use. We look forward to using this site to put our best foot forward with current and potential members and customers.”

Website visitors can learn more about mmpA’s 97-year history, product offerings, locations, leadership and contact information. In addition to upcoming events, recent news releases, job openings and member services, visitors will have access to the Michigan Milk Messenger archive and cooperative scholarship information.

members have been able to preview and try-on the new system using the new “members only” portal for over nine months. many features were added to expand and enhance the use of the site for tech-savvy

and vigilant record keeping producers alike.

For example, each individual farm owner, vet, nutritionist, herdsman, accountant, etc. can create their own account, and farm owners will be able to allow (or not allow) a certain user to see some or all of the farm’s data. put simply, each farm owner has their own password and can control who gets to see their quality information, financials, equities and merchandise orders. this allows flexibility and customization of information sharing.

using the new portal, members can also personalize their homepage with local weather reports, market prices, most used information, etc. members can approve forward contracts online, download a pDF of a year’s worth of milk checks and print out equity statements to take to the bank. last but not least, a “Quality Graphs” feature under the “Quality” tab provides enhanced, personalized graphing capabilities for each farm’s data.

be assured, if a farm did not give mmpA permission to upload its financial information to the old

system, it will not be uploaded to the new system. even if a producer does not utilize the portal information him/her self, marianne Gasiewski at the Novi office can grant quality information access to a vet, nutritionist, etc. learn more about the new website and portal (including log on instructions) by visiting https://www.mimilk.com/images/What’sNew.pdf. limited access to mmpA’s prior website is currently still available via ww2.mimilk.com.

Questions, comments or recommendations are welcomed and can be directed to Greg schulkey, director of management information systems, at the Novi office.

MMPA Launches New Website and Member Portal

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Michigan Youth Shine at Dairy Days

COVER STORY

O ttawa County youth Kelly raterink and Allegan County resident shelby

berens were recognized as the highest point-getters in the senior division of this year’s michigan Youth Dairy Days, an annual dairy youth activity held in conjunction with michigan Dairy expo. the 17th annual expo took place July 15–19 at the michigan state university (msu) pavilion for Agriculture and livestock education in east lansing.

As the youth-centered portion of the michigan Dairy expo, the largest annual dairy event in the state, Youth Dairy Days offers young people interested in the dairy industry opportunities to compete for premiums, ribbons and scholarships in various educational activities, including dairy quiz bowls, dairy management contests, dairy cattle judging competitions and the Dairy Days youth show. this year more than 200 youth members from around the state participated in one or more of the educational competitions, and winners may go on to represent michigan in national competitions. raterink, of Zeeland, was awarded the overall Dairy Youth Dairy Days High rank Award in the senior division and received a $1,000 cash prize. berens, of Holland, was named the reserve overall Dairy Youth Dairy Days High rank Award

winner in the senior division and received a $750 cash prize.

the overall Dairy Youth Dairy Days High rank Award is awarded to the contestant who accumulates the highest total rankings in three of four contest categories: dairy cattle judging (conformation placings and oral reasons), dairy management, quiz bowl and showmanship. the senior division is open to youth ages 15 to 19. A similar contest is held for youth ages 9 to 14 (junior division). each participant may only win the high rank award once in the junior division and once in the senior division.

melissa elischer, michigan dairy youth educator and director of Youth Dairy Days, said that the week-long educational event serves as the stage for showcasing some of the industry’s most talented and engaged young people and future dairy industry leaders. she said youth must learn a number of skills and knowledge in the weeks and months leading up to the event.

“It requires a lot of commitment on the part of young people to prepare for Dairy Days. these young people spend many hours practicing and preparing for this event,” elischer said. “once here, youth then have to budget and prioritize their time to compete in back-to-back contests, often while being responsible for taking care of their show animals in the barn.” Awards and other recognition during Youth Dairy Days, along with other dairy youth and judging program activities conducted throughout the year, are made possible through the generous support of numerous businesses, organizations and individuals.

the 2014 michigan Dairy expo is scheduled for July 21-25 at msu.

Kelly Raterink (left), of Ottawa County, and Shelby Berens (right), of Allegan County, were awarded the Overall and Reserve Overall Dairy Youth Dairy Days High Rank Award.

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Dairy ManagementSenior Division Top 10 Individuals: Kelly raterink (ottawa Co.); Ashley Cross (branch Co.); shelby berens (Allegan Co.); Kayle Jakus (Clinton Co.); Allison schafer (Clinton Co.); suzanna Hull (Hillsdale Co.); Josh markel (Clinton Co.); Isaac elzinga (Allegan Co.); Cameron Cook (Clinton Co.) and Allison pung (Clinton Co.).

Junior Division Top 10 Individuals: Alexis butcher (shiawassee Co.);  miriah Dershem (Clinton Co.); Katrina tucker (Allegan Co.); Jessie Nash (Clinton Co.); miles Wixom (Allegan Co.); miriam Cook (Clinton Co.); thomas Hull (Hillsdale Co.); megan Crevier (shiawassee Co.); Katie Wilson (Isabella Co.) and Kassidy thelen (Clinton Co.).

Novice Division Top 10 Individuals: William link (Kent Co.); Hayley Wineland (branch Co.); Anne mills (Genesee Co.); paige remenar (Clinton Co.); Clayton Weston (Hillsdale Co.); Keegan Nugent (Kent Co.); Anna moser (Ingham Co.); Israel Nobel (ottawa Co.); Irene Nielsen (Ingham Co.) and Keagan long (Ingham Co.). 

Quiz BowlSenior Division Winning Teams: First place: Allegan County and ottawa County, second place: ottawa County and saginaw County, third place: Hillsdale County and monroe County.

Junior Division Winning Teams: First place: ottawa County (team A), second place: Clinton County (team C) third place: Hillsdale (team A).

Novice Division Winning Teams: First place: Clinton County (team A), second place: shiawassee County, third place: Kent County.

Dairy JudgingSenior Division Top 10 Individuals: Kelly raterink (ottawa Co.); Jay luoma (Calhoun Co.); skylar buell (monroe Co.); lucas moser (Ingham Co.); Allison schafer (Clinton Co.); bryce Frahm (saginaw Co.); Kailey sweers (Ingham Co.); Cameron Cook (Clinton Co.); suzanna Hull (Hillsdale Co.) and Kayle Jakus (Clinton Co.).

Junior Division Top 10 Individuals: miriam Cook (Clinton Co.); Jessica Nash (Clinton Co.); Carmen Hicks (Clinton Co.); Ian black (Clinton Co.); Chelsea barnes (ottawa Co.); miriah Dershem (Clinton Co.); Nikki Nugent (Kent Co.); eric moser (Ingham Co.); Jacob Armstrong (branch Co.) and Cheyenne Jakus (Clinton Co.).

Novice Division Top 10 Individuals: Israel Noble (ottawa Co.); William link (Kent Co.); Hayley Wineland (branch Co.); sydney Krause (Ingham Co.); Irene Nielsen (Ingham Co.); Keegan Nugent (Kent Co.); Andrew bieber (ottawa Co.); Hunter Geeseman (Clinton Co.); Jake Vandermolen (ottawa Co.) and Clayton Weston (Hillsdale Co.).

Showmanshipsupreme Champion showman: Kailey sweers (Ingham)Winners of the individual classes, divided by age , were: Division 1: blaine pish (branch)Division 2: lila Howell (Hillsdale)Division 3: Anna moser (Ingham)Division 4: Josie Nash (Clinton)Division 5: shannon Good (Kent)Division 6: Caitie theisen (Isabella)Division 7: Francine brown (Allegan)Division 8: Amber Heisler (Calhoun)Division 9: Jessie Nash (Clinton)Division 10: Kristen burkhardt (livingston)Division 11: Colleen Harke (Isabella)Division 12: eric moser (Ingham)Division 13:  morgan luoma (Calhoun)Division 14:  shelby berens (Allegan)Division 15:  Dani Heisler (Calhoun)Division 16:  Kailey sweers (Ingham)

Overall Dairy Days High Rank Awardssenior Division: Winner: Kelly raterink (ottawa Co.)reserve: shelby berens (Allegan Co.)Junior Division: Winner: Jessica Nash (Clinton Co.)reserve: Carmen Hicks (Clinton Co.)

Contest Spotlight:

Michigan beef industry holds pasture-to-plate tourCulinary instructors meet the beef community� e Michigan Beef Industry Commission (MBIC) recently held a pasture-to-plate beef industry tour for 20 Michigan chefs and culinary instructors. Participants explored Oswalt Family Farms’ cow-calf operation, Liberty Beef feedlot, JBS Packing, Davis Creek Meats and Webster’s Prime steakhouse.

“We included all industry segments in one tour because we wanted to familiarize the chefs with the entire beef community,” says George Quackenbush, Director of Promotions for MBIC. “Chefs may only see our product from the time it arrives in their kitchen until it leaves on a plate. � is tour was their chance to meet the farmers, cattle feeders and processors who play an important role in getting beef to their kitchen.”

One initiative of the Beef Checkoff Program is to communicate beef ’s positive production story. MBIC encouraged Michigan’s culinary school instructors to participate in the tour because they touch the lives of future chefs and food industry professionals. “� ese folks are gatekeepers that can help us reach the Millennial generation, who we know is far removed from food production,” says Quackenbush.

Participants were required to complete pre- and post-tour surveys so MBIC could measure the eff ectiveness of the event. � e survey showed a signifi cant improvement in favorable feelings toward cow-calf farmers and managers of feedlots and beef processing plants. In addition, participants came away with a better understanding of the nutritional benefi ts of beef.

Funded by the Beef Checkoff.

Alignment with Beef Industry Long-Range PlanThe Pasture-to-Plate Beef Tour aligned with several Beef Industry Long-Range Plan core strategies and strategic initiatives. The project helped strengthen the image of beef and the beef industry by:• Engaging all industry

segments to communicate our positive beef production story

• Communicating the industry’s continuous improvement efforts

• Promoting our industry’s commitment, ongoing investment and progress in ensuring beef safety

Get to know your checkoff.

Visit www.MIBEEF.org or call 517-347-0911

“I have been reading and watching videos for the past few years and only got the downside and skewed view of this industry. The operations we visited show the other side of the picture. With this information I believe I can give a more objective view to my students.”

“The most benefi cial thing I learned was the pure respect and dedication that was demonstrated towards safety and quality.”

When asked what was the most interesting or benefi cial thing that you learned, one participant commented, “It’s hard to say as I learned a lot of new information. What I feel I can share with my students and my guests is how, at each level of distribution, food safety is of the highest concern. Everyone we met was passionate about what they do and took pride in how they did it.”

� e tour concluded with dinner at Webster’s Prime steakhouse in Kalamazoo, recent recipient of the Beef Checkoff Program’s 2012 National Foodservice Beef Backer Award. Guests were treated to a beef tasting where they sampled several diff erent types of beef, including grain-fi nished, grass-fi nished, Wagyu and dry-aged.

Reactions from tour participants

100%90%80%70%60%50%40%30%20%10%0%

Percent of tour attendees who Somewhat orStrongly agree with the following statements.

Lean beef is a naturally rich source of 10 essential

nutrients that are necessary for a healthy,

active lifestyle.

All beef, whether grass or grain-fi nished, offers

the same primary nutritional benefi ts.

By choosing lean cuts, you can enjoy beef every day while maintaining or even

improving heart heath.

Pre-tour

100%

86%

52%48%

94% 94%

Post-tour

Michigan beef industry holds pasture-to-plate tourCulinary instructors meet the beef community� e Michigan Beef Industry Commission (MBIC) recently held a pasture-to-plate beef industry tour for 20 Michigan chefs and culinary instructors. Participants explored Oswalt Family Farms’ cow-calf operation, Liberty Beef feedlot, JBS Packing, Davis Creek Meats and Webster’s Prime steakhouse.

“We included all industry segments in one tour because we wanted to familiarize the chefs with the entire beef community,” says George Quackenbush, Director of Promotions for MBIC. “Chefs may only see our product from the time it arrives in their kitchen until it leaves on a plate. � is tour was their chance to meet the farmers, cattle feeders and processors who play an important role in getting beef to their kitchen.”

One initiative of the Beef Checkoff Program is to communicate beef ’s positive production story. MBIC encouraged Michigan’s culinary school instructors to participate in the tour because they touch the lives of future chefs and food industry professionals. “� ese folks are gatekeepers that can help us reach the Millennial generation, who we know is far removed from food production,” says Quackenbush.

Participants were required to complete pre- and post-tour surveys so MBIC could measure the eff ectiveness of the event. � e survey showed a signifi cant improvement in favorable feelings toward cow-calf farmers and managers of feedlots and beef processing plants. In addition, participants came away with a better understanding of the nutritional benefi ts of beef.

Funded by the Beef Checkoff.

Alignment with Beef Industry Long-Range PlanThe Pasture-to-Plate Beef Tour aligned with several Beef Industry Long-Range Plan core strategies and strategic initiatives. The project helped strengthen the image of beef and the beef industry by:• Engaging all industry

segments to communicate our positive beef production story

• Communicating the industry’s continuous improvement efforts

• Promoting our industry’s commitment, ongoing investment and progress in ensuring beef safety

Get to know your checkoff.

Visit www.MIBEEF.org or call 517-347-0911

“I have been reading and watching videos for the past few years and only got the downside and skewed view of this industry. The operations we visited show the other side of the picture. With this information I believe I can give a more objective view to my students.”

“The most benefi cial thing I learned was the pure respect and dedication that was demonstrated towards safety and quality.”

When asked what was the most interesting or benefi cial thing that you learned, one participant commented, “It’s hard to say as I learned a lot of new information. What I feel I can share with my students and my guests is how, at each level of distribution, food safety is of the highest concern. Everyone we met was passionate about what they do and took pride in how they did it.”

� e tour concluded with dinner at Webster’s Prime steakhouse in Kalamazoo, recent recipient of the Beef Checkoff Program’s 2012 National Foodservice Beef Backer Award. Guests were treated to a beef tasting where they sampled several diff erent types of beef, including grain-fi nished, grass-fi nished, Wagyu and dry-aged.

Reactions from tour participants

100%90%80%70%60%50%40%30%20%10%0%

Percent of tour attendees who Somewhat orStrongly agree with the following statements.

Lean beef is a naturally rich source of 10 essential

nutrients that are necessary for a healthy,

active lifestyle.

All beef, whether grass or grain-fi nished, offers

the same primary nutritional benefi ts.

By choosing lean cuts, you can enjoy beef every day while maintaining or even

improving heart heath.

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100%

86%

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94% 94%

Post-tour

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C oming in third to chickens crossing roads and people with yellow-tinted locks,

one group endures being the brunt of more jokes than any other… lawyers.

It seems like everyone has their own personal assortment of lawyer jokes on hand, ready to incite audience-wide belly laughs at a moment’s notice. Coincidentally, so does David VanderHaagen, mmpA’s general counsel. And he never shies away from breaking the ice with one of his favorites.

“David is a behind-the-scenes mmpA counsel who has been tremendously important to our business’s success. He has done an excellent job applying his knowledge to prevent problems from arising for the co-op and possesses the uncanny ability of perfectly timing his comments – whether pertaining to legal advice or injecting some needed humor – to relieve the pressure of a tense moment,” Ken Nobis, mmpA president, comments.

“David received our 35-year award plaque at this year’s annual meeting, and I think he is as proud of that accomplishment as any of our members who have reached that level of loyalty.”

since his appointment by the mmpA board of directors in 1977, David has made an enduring impact on the co-op as well as the nationwide field of cooperative law, not only because of his extensive legal expertise, but his down-to-earth personality and passion for cooperative education. As David looks forward to retirement, mmpA reflects on the decades of knowledge and experience he has shared with our members.

A Rare Breed“today, lawyers familiar with the Federal milk marketing order system are a rare group. David’s familiarity and experience in this field has been uniquely beneficial to mmpA and his knowledge, experience and practice in cooperative and general law have been extremely valuable to mmpA and other cooperatives in the state for over 35 years,” John Dilland, retired mmpA general manager, says.

Not only has David shared his knowledge with cooperatives, he’s also invested substantial time as an instructor for the National society of Accountants for Cooperatives. Attempting to master a complicated craft, many new co-op accountants have benefited from his presentations on cooperative history and law.

even entering retirement, David’s passion for mmpA and other farmer

cooperatives is obvious. “mmpA is a special organization. Its leaders have never lost sight of its mission. Its members will keep mmpA strong by remaining interested and involved in business of their cooperative. I look forward to watching the future unfold for mmpA,” he explains.

the admiration is mutual and, to mmpA, David is far more than his credentials.

John elaborates, “David’s engagement as mmpA’s general counsel for over 35 years is a testament in itself to the value, respect and acceptance he has added to the position. His approachable demeanor has forged common ground with all types of audiences, helping effectively relay complicated legal principles and advice to board members, co-op members and employees alike.”

Impressive Resumethe grandson of two Dutch immigrants – one of which had a brief one-year farming stint – David’s real connection to agriculture came as a result of his interest in law. He earned an undergraduate degree from Calvin College and his law degree at the university of michigan

Celebrating 35 Years of Integrity, Passion and Service

David Vanderhaagen Retires

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law school. upon graduation, Dave joined what was then called the law firm Foster, lindemer, swift and Collins in lansing and has been there ever since.

throughout his tenure, David has become a well-known nationwide expert on cooperative law. He’s been active in the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives’ legal, tax and Accounting Committee and the National society of Accountants for Cooperatives, has served as president of the law firm (now known as Foster, swift, Collins and smith) and has been secretary and general counsel of the michigan Farm bureau Companies. He’s even been listed in the Best Lawyers in America.

but he’s happiest to be known as Jane’s husband – celebrating 44

years of marriage – elizabeth’s and John’s dad and grandpa of emma, brianna and peter.

Passing on the TorchAfter 35 years working together and building rock solid relationships, it’s not going to be easy to transition to the post-VanderHaagen era. luckily, David has helped prepare another talented, experienced member of the Foster swift team to take his place.

the mmpA board of directors have selected David’s business partner, todd Hoppe, to be mmpA’s new general counsel. todd will officially take the helm as legal counsel on sept. 5, 2013.   

John sums up the cooperative’s sentiment and well wishes, adding, “David’s advice and counsel, his

humor and his friendship have been appreciated by all at mmpA. His service to mmpA, to other cooperatives and to agriculture will be greatly missed with his retirement.”

In recognition of David VanderHaagen’s dedicated service and insight helping guide mmpA over the last 35 years, the mmpA board of directors made a contribution in David’s name to the michigan Dairy memorial and scholarship Foundation (mDmsF) at michigan state university, making him an honoree of the foundation. As a mDmsF honoree, David’s biography and photo will be kept on permanent record at msu and his photo will be displayed with the other foundation honorees at the msu pavilion.

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taking two days off the farm in the middle of August might seem crazy, especially with this year’s

delayed planting schedule. but 13 young cooperators, representing seven districts, saw the lasting value of investing two summer days to learn more about their co-op as they gathered August 15-16 in Novi for the 2013 outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators (oYDC) Conference.

the group covered topics spanning from member services to milk pricing, the farm bill to laboratory milk testing and mmpA’s dairy exports to cooperative expansion projects. but it wasn’t all presentations and powerpoint slides. oYDCs took an interactive tour of the Novi lab and office, meeting the people behind their milk tests, checks and cooperative.

the oYDCs had a chance to interact with, get to know and ask questions of co-op leaders in a relaxed,

unintimidating setting. they picked the brains of mmpA directors on hot button issues ranging from bovine tb to new dairy expansion opportunities.

District 7 oYDCs David and Kathleen Knust of Imlay City explain, “It was so nice to take a break from the day-to-day worry and stress of the farm to spend some real time dedicated to learning about mmpA. It’s hard to make time to realize the scope of our co-op’s services without stepping off the farm. the oYDC Conference gave us that chance and exposed us to mmpA services and opportunities we didn’t even know existed.”

District 10 oYDCs Jeremy and melissa petzold of Vassar add, “We had a great time during the oYDC Conference meeting other participants and getting to know farmers our own age that we wouldn’t normally meet. We also met and networked with mmpA staff who we now feel more comfortable

The ROI of Getting to Know Your Co-op

MMPA OYDC Conference participants above include: front (left to right) Kathleen Knust, Jordan Noll, Laura Halfman, Melissa Petzold, Chriss Carmichael, Carla Wardin (host) and Alicia Baker and back (left to right) David Knust, Michael Noll, Mike Halfman, Jeremy Petzold, Jeff Carmichael, Loren Hoolsema, Kris Wardin (host) and Nate Baker.

MMPA Lab Supervisor Patti Huttula explains the strict testing protocols and equipment used to test member milk samples during the OYDCs’ lab tour.

Michael Noll (left) and Mike Halfman (right) give overviews of their family dairy operations, offering a snapshot of their farm story to conference participants.

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calling if we have questions. We highly recommend that other young mmpA farmers participate in this program. You won’t regret it!” Hundreds, in fact close to a thousand, past and present mmpA members have participated in the oYDC program to date, solidifying the importance and value of the

program. For some members, the oYDC Conference is their first chance to learn about the inner workings of the co-op and how member pay prices are determined. many past participants have gone on to become mmpA leaders, serving on the Advisory or resolutions committees, board of directors or local boards. mmpA president and former District 6 oYDC Ken Nobis comments, “the oYDC program helped connect my wife and I to the co-op. We learned more about how our milk check was tabulated and made friends we still stay in contact with today. the oYDC program continues to offer tremendous value to our

members and is an important part of strengthening mmpA as we look forward to servicing future generations.”

the 2012 oYDC Kris and Carla Wardin of st. Johns hosted the two-day conference, injecting humor to put the district oYDCs at ease. three judges – mmpA board member Dan Javor, 2002 oYDC patti Jandernoa and michigan state university extension senior Dairy educator stan moore – interviewed and observed

the district oYDCs and visited the top three farms, selecting this year’s winner and runner-up. Following the conference, the judges selected michael and Jordan Noll from Croswell as the 2013 mmpA oYDCs and Jeff and Chriss Carmichael from reed City as the oYDC runners-up. Watch for feature stories on the Nolls and Carmichaels in the october Messenger. All of the 2013 District oYDCs will also be featured in upcoming issues.

the mmpA outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator (oYDC) program has been one of the co-op’s mainstays, developing young dairy leaders since 1950. For more information on the program, please contact your district board member or sheila burkhardt or Alex schnabelrauch at 248-474-6672.

The ROI of Getting to Know Your Co-op

Chriss Carmichael shares the answers to a co-op related question with the group.

MMPA OYDC Conference participants above include: front (left to right) Kathleen Knust, Jordan Noll, Laura Halfman, Melissa Petzold, Chriss Carmichael, Carla Wardin (host) and Alicia Baker and back (left to right) David Knust, Michael Noll, Mike Halfman, Jeremy Petzold, Jeff Carmichael, Loren Hoolsema, Kris Wardin (host) and Nate Baker.

2012 OYDC Kris and Carla Wardin welcome OYDCs to the conference.

Loren Hoolsema listens to updates from MMPA General Manager Clay Galarneau during the 2013 OYDC Conference.

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T imes are tight. Inputs are expensive. And being in the dairy business isn’t

getting any easier.

It’s no surprise many mmpA members are trying to improve their efficiency by cutting costs whenever and wherever possible. begging the question, “Why should members contribute to the michigan milk political Action Committee (mmpAC)?”

the answer is, ironically, another question. How can we afford not to?

Ken Nobis, mmpA president and mmpAC chairman, explains, “It’s not a matter of if lawmakers will make decisions impacting michigan dairy farms. It’s a matter of when and which way they’ll vote. the mmpAC gets us a seat at the table and gives us a chance to educate legislators about modern dairy operations and build lasting relationships. If we don’t tell our story, someone else will.”

It goes back to the popular saying, “Never gamble with something you can’t afford to lose.” It would be easy to operate under the assumption our world starts and ends at the property line. but history has taught us people, issues and events far beyond the milk house can dramatically affect a producer’s ability to operate.

today’s producers can’t risk that lawmakers’ knowledge and opinions of dairy are accurate or positive, especially since most are two to three generations removed from the farm. With a shrinking on-farm constituency, many legislators may be swayed by well-funded, opinionated activists lobbying against farmer interests. being part of the legislative process by funding and participating in the mmpAC is a sure-fire strategy to make sure dairy’s voice is heard in lansing and Washington, D.C.

“It’s a very small price to pay to ensure our way of life is protected in the legislature. We all pay 15 cents per hundredweight to promote our milk to kids. It’s only logical to give $1 per cow to promote the dairy industry to legislators,” Carlton evans, mmpA members from litchfield, explains.

take it from another mmpA member, and state senator, Judy emmons from sheridan. she relays, “A pAC is a useful tool for any organization. Not only does it provide a means to help candidates who are supportive of issues affecting our industry, but also helps educate candidates who require more knowledge about specific topics affecting milk production in michigan. the mmpAC is very effective because

my colleagues know that producers, like myself, are serious, interested and motivated to be involved in the legislative process while providing the safest milk possible.”

member pAC contributions help support pro-dairy and agriculture candidates’ campaigns on both sides of the aisle. this support solidifies relationships, giving mmpA members and staff more accessibility to lawmakers when issues affecting dairy farm interests arise. With so many interests and issues tugging at legislators, the mmpAC helps dairy farm interests cut through the static.

35 Years Later, MMPAC Still Relevant, Necessary and Effective

“It’s a very small price to pay to ensure our way of life is protected in the legislature. We all pay 15 cents per hundredweight to promote our milk to kids. It’s only logical to give $1 per cow to promote the dairy industry to legislators.”

—Carlton Evans, MMPA Member

Speaking with One Voice

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sen. emmons elaborates, “As producers who help keep the mmpAC strong and relevant with your contributions and involvement, you also have opportunities to interact with those of us serving in the michigan legislature and our counterparts in Congress. because of these discussions, urban and suburban legislators and their staffers feel comfortable seeking information from anyone affiliated with mmpA.”

mmpA’s growing pAC has helped position the co-op as a go-to source for michigan dairy information. Co-op members, leaders and staff have been contacted by lawmakers at both the state and federal level to share their expertise and relay how potential laws may impact producers and local communities.

Carlton urges members to consider contributing, affirming, “It’s our responsibility as mmpA members to get our message out to legislators at all levels. the mmpAC helps us do that most effectively and efficiently. separately, we might be one of just a few dairy farmers in our legislative district. but together, mmpAC allows us to combine those dollars to speak with one voice that grabs lawmakers’ attention and allegiance.”

mmpAC contributions can be mailed to the Novi office with a state or federal mmpA member contribution form. Contribution forms will be mailed to members in september or can be found in the member information section of the mmpA website. members can opt to send a one-time personal check or setup an automatic monthly or one-time milk check deduction. For more information or an extra copy of the contribution form, please contact Nancy muszynski or sheila burkhardt at the Novi office.

MMPAC Challenge

Support the MMPAC and you could be supporting one of your favorite charities!

MMPA will award the MMPA local with the highest percentage of members contributing to the MMPAC a matching gift (up to $1,000) to the local’s choice of one of five selected charity organizations or youth foundations.

The winning local can select from the following organizations:• Michigan 4-H Foundation• Michigan FFA Foundation• Michigan Dairy Memorial and

Scholarship Foundation• United Way• Local charity with approval by MMPA

board of directors

Contributions must be postmarked by November 6, 2013 to qualify for the MMPAC Challenge. The winning local will be announced at Leaders’ Conference on Monday, Nov. 25.

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I t’s never easy being one of the first. but, with proper planning and research, the

rewards can outweigh the risk.

mmpA’s ovid plant has installed one of the first modified atmosphere packaging units for bulk milk powders in North America, a move that will add value and differentiate the co-op’s products worldwide. With similar longstanding systems already operating in New Zealand and europe, the ovid gas flush system will solidify mmpA as a global whole milk powder supplier.

Clay Galarneau, mmpA general manager, comments, “the new gas flush bagger, which will be fully online this month, will extend the

shelf life of our whole milk powder, making us a more attractive supplier to countries looking for a safe, high quality and reliable dairy ingredient. this is one more way we’re adding value to our members’ quality milk supply and finding a market for our co-op’s increasing production.”

this new technology will help mmpA meet a real, expanding need in the global dairy product market. Growing incomes and populations in developing countries have empowered millions of worldwide consumers to look for ways to improve their diets – particularly by adding a high quality protein source. many of these consumers lack refrigeration capabilities.

therefore, whole milk powder, which couples great taste and a solid nutrient profile with convenient storage capability, is in high demand.

Lengthening Shelf LifeWhile mmpA has been manufacturing whole milk powder for three years, the traditional milk powder packaging system limits the product’s shelf life to five to six months. the product’s higher fat content is susceptible to oxidation, resulting in taste defects even a few months after production.

the gas flush system mitigates this oxidation potential by reducing the residual oxygen level in the product to less than 3 percent. Add

Unlocking The Overseas MarketOvid Plant Installs Gas Flush Bagging System for Milk Powder

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in a proprietary, seven-layer film bag that serves as an oxygen barrier, and mmpA’s new gas flushed whole milk powder will have a 18-month shelf life. A longer shelf life translates to an increased demand.

“We’ve fielded requests from the ukraine, mexico, China and other Asian countries looking for our whole milk powder to be used in infant formula, the baking industry and as reconstituted drinking milk. the gas flush system differentiates our product, adds to our product portfolio, increases our export presence and fosters the development of new markets for our products,” Jim Dodson, mmpA director of manufactured product sales, relays.

Whole Milk Powder – Two Customers, Two varietiesmmpA produces two whole milk powder varieties to cater to varying customer preferences and needs. the first contains 26 percent butterfat and is the primary export variety. this product will be packaged in 25-kilogram bags (as opposed to the traditional 50-pounders) conforming to internationally-recognized standards of measure.

the second variety is 28.5 percent butterfat and caters to the domestic confectioners’ market. many commercial baked goods utilize whole milk powder in their recipes.

While the gas flush system adds substantial value to mmpA’s export market potential, it’s also perking eyebrows here at home for customers looking to buy and store product to optimize inventory management strategies.

The Nuts and Boltsthe gas flush difference is all in the process. Whole milk powder will be dried down to less than 4 percent moisture in the ovid plant’s tower dryer – completed in 2010 – and then stored in a powder bin. the gas flush bagging system will retrieve the powder from storage, funneling it into a pre-gassing hopper. In the hopper, the powder will be flushed with nitrogen to drive free oxygen off the product.

the bagger will then open one of the specially-designed, oxygen barrier bags, purging all of the oxygen inside. It will be filled with the whole milk powder. Head space above the bag will be treated with carbon dioxide (to prevent oxygen from becoming trapped in the top of the bag) and sealed.

mmpA’s first robot, a robotic palletizer, will pick up the finished, sealed bag and stack it on pallets. An automatic stretch wrapper will then wrap the pallet (to promote pallet integrity) before a forklift transports it to stored inventory. In total, two people will operate the entire line – one operating the bagger and one warehousing completed pallets of powder.

mmpA’s manufactured product sales Department will be serving as the marketing arm, coordinating sales to both domestic and international customers. Current demand is strong and supplies outside of New Zealand have been limited, making today’s market opportunity favorable for mmpA.

Dave Wittkop, mmpA plant manager, weighs in adding, “the gas flush

system allows mmpA to maximize the capabilities of the tower dryer. the tower dryer is a flexible dryer and its capabilities extend beyond nonfat dry milk powder. Going forward, there are more value-added products that we can produce, including agglomerated and instant dry products, to further differentiate our brand and add value for our customer base.”

Opening Doors of Opportunitybeing one of the first to launch this new technology in the u.s. comes with its challenges and a steep learning curve. but, by building co-op knowledge of the market, processes and product itself, the opportunities are abundant.

Clay concludes, “We have been by our members’ sides for the past 97 years, and we’ve taken the necessary steps to ensure we’re ready to market our members’ additional supply along the way. We’ll continue finding ways to better serve our members and market their high quality milk while looking ahead, preparing for future generations of producer members.”

“We’ll continue finding ways to better serve our members and market their high quality milk while looking ahead, preparing for future generations of producer members.”

Clay Galarneau, MMPA General

Manager

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Control Butyric Acid andMaximize Every Bite!

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Strategic Growth Initiative Grant Program to Boost Michigan’s Growing Food and Agriculture Industry

the michigan Department of Agriculture and rural Development (mDArD) Director Jamie Clover Adams has announced a $3 million grant program designed to break down barriers inhibiting the growth of michigan’s food and agriculture industry. the grant program is a joint venture between mDArD and the michigan economic Development Corporation (meDC).

“the strategic Growth Initiative Grant program provides an opportunity to leverage business development and growth for michigan’s $91.4 billion food and agriculture industry,” Clover Adams said. “With increased investment in our state’s food and agriculture industry, we are fostering opportunities for job growth in high tech and innovative careers.”

All application materials including the program overview and scoring sheet are available on mDArD’s website at www.michigan.gov/mdagrants. Applications must be received by 3 p.m. Wednesday, october 2, 2013.

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Pioneer® brand inoculants help you produce high-quality corn silage.

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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

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T he merchandise program has decided to discontinue stocking the ecolab product, perform. perform is a tri-blend acid containing

phosphoric, nitric and sulfuric acids. this decision was made primarily due to concerns about its lack of effectiveness under certain water conditions.

the replacement for this product will be envirocid plus. We tested this product on two farms where perform had proven to be ineffective, both farms found envirocid plus to be very effective. envirocid plus is a red, dual-blend acid made up of nitric and sulfuric acids. It is designed to rapidly dissolve milkstone, hard water scale and other minerals. Its wetting agents help penetrate fatty and burned on soils, while maintaining low foam levels to improve cleaning efficiency.

this product would be used as an acidified rinse on all equipment at a concentration of 1 ounce per 7 gallons of cold water. A term we have all been hearing lately is “sustainability.” to aid in that goal, envirocid plus contains no phosphorus and has less nitrates as compared to most other concentrated acid products.

envirocid plus will be priced at the same level as perform. prices and package sizes are as follows.

Stock # Description Member price6012 envirocid plus 5 gallon. $40.556992 envirocid plus 15 gallon $114.116006 envirocid plus 55 gallon $349.16

If you have any questions regarding this or any other merchandise matter, please call us at the warehouse.

Envirocid PlusNow in Stock

MERChANDISE

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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

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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 - 400,000 00¢/cwt.• 401,000 - 500,000 -15¢/cwt.• 501,000 - 600,000 -30¢/cwt.• 601,000 - 750,000 -$1.00/cwt.• over 750,000 -$1.50/cwt.

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

• 10,000 raw bacteria Count• 20,000 pre-Incubated (pI) Count

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

• Greater than 100,000 raw bacteria Count

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

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

• positive drug residue • Abnormal freeze points• High load count shipment or rejected load shipment• #3 or #4 sediment• raw bacteria count over 100,000the 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.

Registered Holstein Bulls: Calves to breeding age. many with genomic info, eX and VG dams with high records out of popular sires. priced to sell. W-r-l Daniels Farm llC. Contact: rod Daniels 989-756-4935.

Two Jersey bulls service age. Call Hartland Farms at 616-527-4478.

Cows and Heifers75 Holstein Dairy Cows plus 10 dry cows and 10 close-up heifers.  Freestall & parlor herd milking 80-85lbs/day on 2X/day.  sCC avg. under 100,000.  mmpA Gold Quality award winner.  100% A-I bred on a mating program. 989-864-3297.

Jersey herd, 25-cows currently milking. High butterfat, low sCC. For more information call 989-435-2896.

245 dairy herd in Northern Michigan. Average sCC 100,000. looking for heifer contracts. Four drive-thru feed lane barns. one w/headlocks. Call 906-440-6455.

Equipment200 ft. of Badger left hand barn cleaner chain, two years old, fair condition, make offer. 231-499-9568.

John Deere 3970 Forage Harvester w/ 7-ft. hay head, 3-row 30-inch corn head, VG condition, $7,000. H&s mm1 hay merger, VG condition, $4,000. 4 Gehl 970 Forage Wagons tandem running gear, good condition, $2,500 each. IH 4000 swather. 14.5 draper head, fair condition, $1,000. Contact Keith @ 989-551-8041. thumb Area.

Two 6200 Lilliston bean combines both with bucket elevators and sun pickups, good condition, $2,500 each or $4,500 for both. 616-754-9404.

7.5 hp direct drive vacuum pump filter and ballast tank, used about 2 years, like new, $3,000. Can deliver for additional cost. Also 2 electric motors, best offer. 810-537-2521 sanilac Co.

Kewanee 42-ft. elevator, $1,200. Henke roller mill blower, $3,500. Hanson 20-ft. silo unloader, $2,500. 810-599-9021.

1 Gehl 700 2-row narrow chopper with hay head, nice. 1 John Deere 38 chopper with hay head. 260-705-8185.

5127 vertical TMR mixer in A1 condition. 420 Harvester stationary tmr mixer in good condition. 574-642-1247.

1998 Knight Mixer 3030 asking $5,000. 989-709-0955.

Dairy EquipmentZero Milk Tank with compressor & vacuum pump and calibration charts. Call 231-861-2634.

Blue Diamond parlor double 12 Herringbone rapid exit with Germania model (sb) arm takeoffs. Afimilk information system, barrel style claws. Available fall 2013. $35,000. 231-834-7558.

Mueller 1,000-gal. bulk tank with compressor and tank washer, asking $3,800. (989) 709-0955.

3-phase variable speed Boumatic Vacuum pump, 10 horse power 220 or 440 Hours. 30324.5. 989-709-0955.

Dairy FarmDairy Farm, Cheboygan, mich. 367.11 acres. 25x56 double 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. Farm, buildings & parlor. We also rent 670 acres paying $40 ac. most acres, less amt. David brown, Cheboygan, mich. 231-625-2036.

Wanted36 or more 27-inch on center self locks. 260-463-2327 ext. 5.

40 used pasture mats for freestall barn. Call David mast at 260-593-2686 ext. 4.

Used rubber mats for cows. 574-825-4373 ext. 1.

Misc.Approx. 75 straw bales, $3.00 a bale. Call 231-861-2634.

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

CONCRETE GROOVING/FLOOR TExTURING: bring existing grooves back to 100% efficiency/new construction. blue ribbon Hoof trimming, llC. 989-635-1494.

FOR SALE: 5000-4000-3000-2500-2000-1500 OH mueller late model bulk tank milk tanks, complete, will trade. 1-800-558-0112.

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

BARN WHITE WASHING AND CLEANING WITH HIGH PRESSURE AIR: serving all michigan and Indiana. miller spray service, Inc. 574-825-9776.

BARN WHITE WASHING: scholten spraying services. 616-895-6307. Allendale.

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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 515,011,523 472,529,473 +8.99

total Class 2 sales 166,555,894 289,998,405 -42.57

total Class 3 sales 506,594,324 302,170,890 +67.65

total Class 4 sales 163,428,147 194,560,795 -16.00

total production 1,351,589,888 1,259,259,563 +7.33

Class 1 utilization 38.1% 37.5%

Current Month total producers 6,042Average Daily production per Farm 7,216Average protein test 2.97%Average butterfat test 3.60%Average other solids test 5.74%Average sCC Count (mmpA) 203,000

protein price/lb. $3.2257

butterfat price/lb. $1.5693

other solids price/lb. $0.3927

Class III price @ 3.5% $ 17.38

prod. price Diff/cwt. (mich. mkt.) $1.54

uniform price @ 3.5% $ 18.92

sCC Adjustment/cwt./1000 $0.00086

2013 2012 % Change production California 3,375 3,498 -3.5

Wisconsin 2,321 2,256 +2.9

Idaho 1,174 1,187 -1.1

New York 1,125 1,113 +1.1

pennsylvania 870 860 +1.2

texas 820 779 +5.3

michigan 766 743 +3.1

minnesota 756 735 +2.9

New mexico 689 676 +1.9

Washington 546 526 +3.8

ohio 442 429 +3.0

Indiana 324 301 +7.6

* total u.s. 15,674 15,495 +1.2

* u.s. Y-t-D 119,231 119,138 +0.1

* For 23 states

monthly Avg

Cheese /lb 1.7142

butter /lb 1.4674

Nonfat Dry milk /lb 1.7270

Dry Whey /lb 0.5804

NASS Survey Prices

MARKET REPORT

July 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

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.

MASTITIS MANAGEMENTSteven Lehman 989-875-3441Ithaca cell: 989-330-1638

Christy Dinsmoore Fairgrove 989-528-9102

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 Santure st. Johns 989-488-8159

Gerry Volz 989-848-5996Fairview 989-289-9219 Merchandise—St. Louis

Duane 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 Plant Manager/Plant OperationsDavid Wittkop

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

MMPA FIELD STAFF

monthly Avg

Cheese /lb 1.7142

butter /lb 1.4674

Nonfat Dry milk /lb 1.7270

Dry Whey /lb 0.5804

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

Kendra Kissane Grand rapids 269-245-6632

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

Michael Marvin marlette 989-670-4864Energy Auditor

Thank You Dairy Buyers at the 5th Annual Michigan Livestock Expo Sale-abration

Supporters of Michigan Dairy Youth raised $43,000 at the Michigan Livestock Expo Sale-abration event

on July 16. The money raised will be used to provide scholarships and support dairy youth activities such as the Michigan Dairy Expo and other dairy youth

education programs.

2013 Dairy BuyersMeijers

Kalmbach Feeds, Inc. Michigan Milk Producers Association

The Kroger Co. of MichiganCoBank

Caledonia Farmers ElevatorNorthStar Cooperative

Dairy Farmers of AmericaZeeland Farm Services

Calder DairyFoster, Swift, Collins & Smith, P.C.

Vita PlusRoberts Dairy Service

Class ConstructionHardy’s Holsteins

United Dairy Industry of Michigan

Supreme Champion Dairy Showperson Kailey Sweers, Dansville

Supreme Champion Dairy CowParker Hardy, Tipton

Supreme Champion Dairy HeiferLucas Moser, Dansville

Grand Champion Cheese Old Europe Cheese, Benton Harbor

Michigan Milk Producers AssociationNovi, Mi

(248) 474-6672