Messenger www.mimilk.com Vol. 96 Issue 6

December 2013

Ovid Investment Update • Pour it Forward

Michigan Milk

The official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association

Inside

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EDITOR’S LETTER

4 MMPA MattersFace-to-Face Still the Best

6 Quality WatchProtect Your Cows’ Money Makers

8 News & ViewsNDB AppointmentNMPF Awards

10 Legislative Watch Farm Bill Conference

Begins on Capitol Hill

FEATURES

12 Unprecedented Return on Investment

Ovid Plant Investment Earning its Keep

13 2013-14 MMPA Local Meetings

14 Realigning Priorities

2013 District 7 OYDC David and Kathleen Knust

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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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16 Milk Quality Benefits from

Monthly Meetings

18 Perpetual Transition, Constant Dedication

2013 District 10 OYDC Jeremy and Melissa Petzold

22 ‘Tis the Season of Generosity Pour it Forward with UDIM and Kroger

Cover StoryAs winter approaches and the holiday season nears, we wish all our members and friends a season filled with peace and happiness. read how uDIm and Kroger are partnering to help others with the “Pour it Forward” program on page 22.

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

24 2013-2014 MMPA Local Officers

32 Merchandise33 Quality Premiums34 Freeliners36 Classifieds37 Policies38 Market Report39 Staff

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We are at the beginning of the meeting season, and we want MMPA to be poised to make the most of it. How can we make your meeting a good one? There are many, many ways to communicate today, and each has advantages and disadvantages. We have land lines, mobile phones, text messaging, e-mail, videos, print and on-line newspapers and periodicals, and an ever-increasing array of social media avenues. How often have you been 10 minutes into drafting an email when it occurs to you that you could be more efficient with a phone call? How often have you thought to yourself that what you wanted to convey is best said out loud rather than in writing which can be quickly forwarded or shared across cyberspace with others? While effective communication choices are seemingly limitless and sometimes daunting, face-to-face communication continues to offer advantages that cannot be found anywhere else.

I was reminded of the importance of face-to-face interaction recently while talking with someone who spends every working day promoting u.s. dairy products. He explained to me the pitfalls of texting and emails (in particular) include: he receives no clues or information gained by observing body language that might indicate

whether the person at the other end truly agrees with him or instead is rejecting him, and no indication that he might even be royally offending the person. Yes, we can unknowingly offend each other in a face-to-face interaction, too, but at least body language gives us more indicators and opportunities to turn the situation around before it has gone too far.

Telephones are a step up because the other person can interrupt and ask for clarification while the conversation is in progress. I appreciate the phone calls I receive from mmPA members. even though a good phone conversation can be fruitful, face-to-face is even better because all of our senses can be used to effectively communicate.

What’s interesting is that we have so many communication avenues, but we still have gaps left by our failure to communicate effectively. Face-to-face exchanges are not always possible. local meetings provide a once-a-year opportunity to meet and greet each other and exchange ideas, so I can only wonder why every member does not show up. It’s only a few hours out of your year.

We are now in the process of preparing for these meetings. Tell us how we can make the local meeting an experience that adds value to your membership in mmPA. Tell us what you like; tell us what you don’t like. After all, each member is a part owner of this cooperative. Your board

of directors is willing to effect change, but we need your input on what that change should look like and how it will make our cooperative better.

maybe the number one discussion item will vary from local to local. No problem – just let your interests be known to us before your meeting so that we can tailor the discussion and prepare some information for your local.

each member of mmPA is a part owner, so each member has rights. but with rights come responsibilities. I think most, if not all, members want to see their cooperative grow and prosper. Participation is the key to moving forward. Participation of each member helps fulfill our mission statement, “to market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.”

let me know what you think. A call or text to my mobile phone 248-996-3757, an email to nobis@mimilk.com, or a note sent by u.s. mail to 1513 N. lowell road, saint Johns, mI 48879 will result in a quick response.

sheila burkhardt, director of member relations and public affairs, is always looking for good ideas and would like to hear from you also. We look forward to communicating with you and, most importantly, seeing you face-to-face at your local meeting.

Face-to-Face Meetings Still the Best

byKen NobisPresident

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Cows’ teat skin is similar to human lips; both in sensitivity and texture. When our lips begin to chap and dry out in cool, dry weather cows’ teats do too.

rough, chapped teat skin is irritating and painful for cows, and it creates many micro-cracks and crevices for bacteria, especially staph Aureus, to colonize. Then it’s just a matter of time before the bacteria break through the teat end barrier and cause a mastitis infection. It’s not uncommon for contagious mastitis outbreaks to occur on farms that quit post-dipping in the winter months.midwestern winters are challenging for dairies, but with some planning, chapped or frostbitten teats can be prevented.

Chose Post-Dips WiselyProduct selection is important. Post-dips containing at least 10 percent skin conditioning agents are recommended in the cool, dry months. skin conditioners are designed to keep teat skin and teat ends smooth and supple through cold winters. Post-dip only works effectively if it covers the entire teat barrel and end.

Powder dips that contain a sanitizing agent may have a place in a farm’s post-dipping regimen, but they may prove difficult to effectively apply. You may consider using a powder dip for night milking (when temperatures drop)

and a conventional dip during the day milking; monitor for any chemical reaction between liquid and powder dips. be wary of thick barrier dips in the winter; they may take as long as 20 minutes to dry.

When Jack Frost BitesWhen the wind chill drops below -25° F, avoid chapped or frozen teats by letting teat ends dry before turning cows out of the parlor or milking barn. blotting the teat ends with a towel 30 seconds after the start of dip contact time can speed the drying process. It is the drip of dip on the teat end that (when it freezes) also damages teat skin. And just because you don’t dip doesn’t mean the teat is dry; even the thin film of milk left after milking may freeze if a cow is turned out into cold weather conditions.

Providing wind breaks can reduce the wind chapping factor greatly. Temperatures of -20° F can be tolerated under calm wind conditions.

special care should be taken for first lactation cows and any cows with udder edema. These conditions reduce the blood flow to the udder and increase the cow’s chances of getting frostbitten or chapped teats.

other concerns on a dairy include suckling heifers wetting teats on the heifers they suckle, wet bedding exposing teat skin to moisture and poor ventilation driving up humidity. All of these factors draw heat from the teat skin more quickly.

monitor your cows’ teats often so you can take action as soon as there are observed changes in teat skin condition.

Limited Treatment OptionsPreventing chapped or frostbitten teats is much easier than treating them. If frostbite or chapping of teats occurs on your farm, supportive therapy with sparing use of salves or oils may be necessary to restore teat skin condition. but there is no specific treatment.

In fact, treatment methods can actually spread mastitis-causing bacteria from cow to cow via greasy milker hands. These bacteria are very difficult to remove before the milker is attached at the next milking. studies show that salves and oils are no better at healing damaged teat skin than post-dip with 1 percent iodine and 10 percent skin conditioners. And remember, already frostbitten teats are more susceptible to refreezing.

Cold Weather Can also Affect Your Teat DipDon’t store teat dip containers in areas where they may freeze; freezing causes separation of ingredients resulting in higher concentrations of active ingredients near the bottom of the container. stirring the product beforehand will help, but it is difficult to remix.

You cannot control the weather, but you can reduce its impact on the cows’ teats.

byChristy Dinsmoore Mastitis Management Specialist

QUALITY WATCh

Protect Your Cows’ Money Makers: Don’t let Jack Frost Nip Cows’ Teats

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AN EXCELLENT PRE- AND POST-DIP SOLUTION.LSA technology also gives you more powerful broad spectrum protection. It kills mastitis-causingpathogens, including bacteria, fungi and viruses. Even when exposed to high levels of organic

contaminants, which can lower the effectiveness of other traditional non-iodine dips, MASTICARE stays as effective as iodine. It’s gentle too. You’ll see less irritation and

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

www.AandL-Labs.com

EXL Labs_MastiCare Ad_Michigan Milk_9-13_Layout 1 9/13/13 1:07 PM Page 1

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NEWS & VIEWS

Upcoming Events

December9 MMPA Advisory Committee Novi, MI Local Meetings begin

MMPA SIMON NORTH CLINTONOctober 2013Steenblik Dairy Inc.BMF Dairy LLC MMPA ALLENDALE SOUTHOctober 2013Pyle Dairy Farm Inc Dennis Raterink Norman Terhaar Nienhuis Dairy Farm LLC James Huggett Ladine Farms Daybreak Dairy LLC *Steven Hochstetler Country Corners Farms LLC Haveman Farms LLC William / Robert Gruppen Wayne / Marvin Hochstetler Ivan Mast

*Scored 100 percent

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

October Class III up 8¢

The usDA announced that october’s class III milk price is $18.22 per hundredweight, up eight cents from september, but down $2.80 from a year ago. The class IV price is $20.17, 74 cents higher than september’s price, and $1.63 more than last year.

MMPA Member Cheri Chapin Appointed to National Dairy Board

Agriculture secretary Tom Vilsack announced the appointment of 14 members to the National Dairy Promotion and research board last month. “These appointees represent a cross section of the dairy industry and I am confident that the industry will be well served by them,” said secretary Vilsack. Newly appointed members are: cheryl l. chapin, remus, mich.; carol l. Ahlem, Hilmar, calif.; christopher J. brazil, escalon, calif.; brian o. medeiros, Hanford, calif.; lisa Vander eyk, Pixley, calif.; eddie s. schaap, clovis, N.m.; sarah e. lloyd, Wisconsin Dells, Wis.; and Joseph m. Kelsay (term ending on october 31, 2015), Whiteland, Ind..

reappointed to serve second terms were: renae A. De Jager, chowchilla, calif.; Jeffrey A. Hardy, brigham city, utah; Zachary H. myers, Jonesville, N.c.; David P. crowl, Forest Hill, md.; sanford stauffer, Nicholville, N. Y.; and susan m. Troy, Wilmette, Ill..

The Dairy board was established under the Dairy Production stabilization Act of 1983, as amended, to develop and administer a coordinated program of promotion, research, and nutrition education. The 38-member Dairy board is authorized to design programs to strengthen the dairy industry’s position in domestic and foreign markets. The program is financed by a mandatory assessment on all milk marketed commercially and an assessment on milk and dairy products imported into the united states.

MMPA Members and Employees Earn Awards at NMPF Joint Annual Meeting mmPA was well represented and returned home with its fair share of accolades at the recent National milk Producers Federation (NmPF)/National Dairy board (NDb)/united Dairy Industry Association (uDIA) Joint Annual meeting held November 11-13 in Phoenix, Ariz. The NDb honored former mmPA president of 26 years elwood Kirkpatrick with the richard e. lyng Award for his dedication and service to dairy promotion. The award is named after 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 28 years ago. The lyng Award honors dairy industry leaders who have made a significant contribution to dairy promotion that benefits the entire dairy industry. NmPF also recognized mmPA member and past board member Velmar Green as an honorary director. Velmar was selected for this honor because of his exemplary service not only to NmPF, but also to the entire dairy industry. mmPA Director of member services Dean letter was also recognized as the second place entry in the column/editorial division of the member cooperative communications competition for his June 2013 Quality Watch article titled, “recommended Farm biosecurity measures.”

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NEWS & VIEWS

Save the Date: MMPA Calf Training Schools

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 cost to attend is $10 per person. The classroom-style meeting is limited to 25 per date, so reserve your spot early!

2013/2014 Dates and Locations

Dec. 10, 2013 Gratiot-Isabella resD (Ithaca) (FULL)

Dec. 11, 2013 ramada Inn (Grayling)

Dec. 12, 2013 msue sanilac county (sandusky) (FULL)

Dec. 13, 2013 steaks eatery (Jackson)

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.

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 231-825-2814Tom Jeppesen, stanton 989-762-5399bill Jernstadt, big rapids 231-796-4650 mike rasmussen, edmore 989-762-5380 District Six Aaron 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

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LEgISLATIVE

Farm Bill Conference Begins on Capitol hill

T he Farm bill conference formally began last month on capitol Hill, as the 41

House and senate members of the joint conference committee outlined their priorities and pledged to finalize a compromise bill this fall. NmPF issued a statement urging the lawmakers to include the senate’s Dairy security Act in the measure, and reject the House dairy language because it lacks the market stabilization component supported by NmPF.

The principal leaders of the House and senate Agriculture committees are now working informally to resolve the key points of contention between the two chambers’ respective versions. In addition to dairy policy, the lawmakers must reconcile differences including country of origin labeling for meat, the national implications of california’s egg production requirements, whether to require conservation compliance as part of crop insurance and most prominently, the level of funding reduction for food stamps.

These issues will have to be addressed relatively quickly, given that holiday schedules will limit the amount of time for the House and Senate to pass a final bill prior to the end of the year.

NmPF is continuing its efforts to educate lawmakers about the importance of having a voluntary margin insurance program coupled with the market stabilization program, in order to make the overall dairy safety net as effective and affordable as possible. Dairy farmers can contact their members of congress to urge that the Dairy security Act be included in the farm bill by using NmPF’s Dairy GreAT system found at www.NmPF.org.

NMPF Urges USDA to Enhance Dairy Consumption Opportunities in Schools

In comments submitted to the usDA, NmPF urged the agency to make adjustments in a proposed rule affecting how dairy products are made available to school students beyond the lunch line. The NmPF comments single out as a point of concern the “favorable treatment afforded to competing beverages – which, in contrast to milk and juice, do not supply significant amounts of nutrients essential to students’ diets” and points out that the proposed regulation confers an unfair and inappropriate advantage to these products.

The comments are in response to usDA’s

interim final rule establishing nutrition standards for foods sold outside

of school meal programs. because

dairy products in those settings are

competing against other foods and beverages, NmPF urged usDA to limit the time and place that non-dairy, non-juice lower-calorie and calorie-free beverages are available.

In addition, NmPF also asked usDA to include low-fat flavored milk as an allowable beverage, extend the saturated fat exemption for reduced-fat cheese to combination foods and clarify the final rule’s saturated fat standard.

Those changes – particularly allowing the reintroduction of low-fat flavored milk, which was removed from federal school nutrition regulations three years ago – will “further enhance dairy consumption in order to close the gap between current dietary recommendations and consumption of milk and dairy products.” NmPF pointed out that actual average consumption of milk is “barely half the usDA’s recommended amount and, after early childhood, all age groups continue to fall further short of recommended amounts.”

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by Alex schnabelrauch

Unprecedented Return on Investment The average savings account accumulated roughly .06 percent interest last year. roth IrAs returned around .1 percent annual interest. even long-term u.s. stocks have averaged a 7 percent return over the past century. but mmPA’s investment in the ovid plant expansion has, even according to conservative estimates, blown those roIs out of the water.

“over a four-year period, since the ovid plant expansion was completed, we’ve generated 150 percent return on the expansion investment back to members,” Joe Diglio, mmPA director of finance and controller, explains. “members have invested 10 cents per hundredweight in the form of equity capital retains into their

cooperative since April 2008, while the co-op has returned an annual average of 15 cents in realized value between 2010 and 2013. Where else could we have achieved such stellar returns?”

Outperforming ExpectationsThe $62 million investment in mmPA’s ovid Plant, endorsed by delegates in 2008, was not taken lightly nor made without thoughtful consideration and countless calculations. but, even projecting an annual 3 percent growth in the mmPA member milk supply, no one could have predicted the growth and change in the dairy marketplace that has occurred over the past four years.

“With the ability to process the additional milk produced by

our members – which grew 5 percent in 2012 and nearly 5 percent again in 2013 – and the capacity to nimbly navigate markets to capitalize on surplus milk available at market prices, the value of return projected by our original models has grown exponentially. bottom line,

we’re realizing stronger returns than our most optimistic expectations,” Joe elaborates.

In 2009, mmPA and other michigan dairy plants were filled to capacity, translating into a shortage of customers for extra mmPA milk. excess milk produced by mmPA members had to be shipped to distant markets at a distressed price, taking a destructive toll on the mmPA pay price. consequently, the goal of adding capacity to the ovid plant was to prevent recent history from repeating itself and keeps mmPA milk closer to home.

currently, rather than being forced to sell member milk at a reduced price to other buyers, mmPA can process and produce quality products

Ovid Plant Investment Earning its Keep

Continued on page 20

COVER STORY

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Local Date Place Location Timebarry-eaton/lansing saturday, Dec. 7 Grace community

churchNashville 12 noon

Kalamazoo Tuesday, Dec. 10 old country buffet Kalamazoo 11 a.m.

upstate Tuesday, Dec. 10

menominee/Vacationland/Western u.P.

Wednesday, Dec. 11

sunrise Wednesday, Dec. 11 K of c Hall standish 11:30 a.m.

chippewa Thursday, Dec. 12 rudyard christian reformed church

rudyard 12 noon

Deford/clifford-mayville

monday, Jan. 6 liz’s American Diner caro 12 noon

Adrian Tuesday, Jan. 7 rome Grange Hall Adrian 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 bloomer Twp. Hall carson city 12 noon

mid-michigan Thursday, Jan. 9 clinton co. resA building st Johns 11:45 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

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.

by Alex schnabelrauch

D avid and Kathleen Knust look like the typical early 20-somethings, fresh out

of college and just beginning adult jobs. but age can be deceiving.

At 23, David has more than a decade of hands-on farm experience. “I always wished the school bus would drop me off at the farm instead of at home,” David smiles. “every day I walked to the farm after school and wouldn’t leave until dark. I loved it then, and I still love it now.”

Now employees of lbDsK Farms – owned by David’s grandparents, lester and barbara, and his mother, susan – David and Kathleen are exactly where they want to be.

Facing Challenges, Realigning PrioritiesThe story of going back to the family farm seems familiar enough. However, the Knusts’ circumstances are anything but typical.

In the midst of drafting transition plans, David’s father passed away in a farm accident. As the only surviving child and intended heir to the business, the loss was a hard, devastating blow to the close-knit family. The future seemed vague, even well-laid plans were uprooted and the Knusts felt lost.

“Thankfully, dairy people are more like family than coworkers. They know what you’re going through. When you’re hurting, they hurt too. And when your neighbor

needs it, you help,” Kathleen elaborates.

The Ankley family, mmPA members from Imlay city, covered milking shifts during the visitation and funeral. David’s other grandpa, michael Fleming, took charge of the farm’s planting and harvesting. A new employee was hired to balance work load. And David, just a junior in high school, took on more responsibility to keep the operation afloat.

“The one positive thing about my dad’s accident is it changed how we approach farming. In the words of my Grandpa Fleming, ‘We farm to live; we don’t live to farm.’ We’ve realized certain things can wait. If the alley scrapper breaks christmas morning, we can take care of it later. Family comes first,” David explains.

Years in the Makingone of the constants amongst the family’s struggles, David and Kathleen have been joined at the hip for eight years. meeting as high schoolers, David was Kathleen’s ride home every Thursday from night FFA meetings.

“I had horses and was in 4-H; a friend roped me into joining FFA. After I met David, I started working on the farm and fell in love with the cows… and David of course,” Kathleen laughs.

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Top: David and Kathleen Knust work on David’s family farm and split herd and field work to best suit their individual interests and skills. Bottom: David, charged with planting, harvesting and managing the farm’s 980 operated acres, takes a look at the corn crop before its carried up to the silos.

Realigning Priorities2013 District 7 OYDC David and Kathleen Knust

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David and Kathleen Knust District 7 OYDC Mid-Thumb Local

Herd Size: 101 milking, 12 dry

Replacements: 110

Acres Farmed: 980

Crops Grown: corn, alfalfa, soybeans, oats and wheat

Milking Regiment: two-a-day milking in a double-6 herringbone parlor

Sustainable Practices: reclaimed plate cooler water, biodiesel usage to fuel equipment

Breeding Program: AI, clean-up bull with heifers

Education: David graduated from Almont High school in 2008 and received a two-year certificate double majoring in agriculture and diesel mechanics from the university of Northwestern ohio in 2010. Kathleen graduated from Imlay city High school in 2009 and earned a two-year certificate from the michigan state university Dairy Herd management program in 2011.

Certifications/Training: FArm certified, milkers attend mmPA milker Training school

Ag, Dairy and Community Involvement: David and Kathleen have worked together to conduct various agriculture outreach events and activities including hosting a 2007 fall farm tour, presenting dairy facts during Project reD, volunteering at breakfast on the Farm events and serving on the lapeer county Farm bureau membership Drive committee.

It wasn’t long before David scrolled “Will you marry me?” on the side of Kathleen’s favorite brown swiss cow. she said yes, and they were married in July of 2012.

Now the farm’s herdswoman, Kathleen manages herd health, takes half of the milking shifts, feeds cows and calves and breeds and vaccinates the herd. Taking a team approach, David focuses on the other side of the operation, managing the field work and equipment maintenance as well as taking the evening milking and feeding shifts. In tandem with David’s grandparents, Grandpa Fleming and three employees, the couple has helped improve milk quality to an average 107,000 cells/ml scc.

Little Things Make a Big Differencelooking beneath the surface, the Knusts invest time and effort into a couple unique management strategies to add to the operation’s profitability. “Times are tight. so to help add to our margins, we’re a Hubbard Feed Dealer serving 30 customers ranging in size and scope. Plus, this helps us save money on our feed costs,” David relays.

Kathleen adds, “We’re also a Johne’s-free herd. every cow is tested before drying up, and positive animals are removed from the herd before the next calving cycle. It’s our goal to prevent Johne’s from hampering our herd’s production potential.”

Yet the farm still struggles with the long-time challenge of transition planning. “since my dad passed, there’s such an experience gap between the owner generation (my grandparents) and the next generation. With just a few years of adult, full-time farm experience under my belt, it’s hard to start the conversation of transitioning the family business,” David says. “but, in the end, we wouldn’t be as happy anywhere else doing anything else with anyone else.”

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W ith the milker Training school (mTs) season fast approaching and

customer milk quality standards continuing to rise, we encourage members to review their milking procedures.

• Are employees practicing good udder prep techniques?

• Have employees experienced procedural drift from the farm’s established milking procedure?

• How often are milking procedures reviewed and employees retrained?

sending employees to mTs is a great way to teach or reinforce the importance of good udder prep techniques; but it doesn’t stop there!

A new survey, released by Dr. rebecca schewe assistant professor at mississippi state university, found that almost 45 percent of owners believe they have an issue with mastitis on their farms. While the majority of these producers do not believe there are issues with employees following proper milking procedures, they do believe their employees play an important role in mastitis management.

The survey also discovered that farms that hold employee meetings, at least on an annual basis, to discuss milk quality have lower bulk

tank somatic cell counts (scc) than farms that don’t. This is thought to be the result of a communication gap between farm owners and employees. often times when discussing mastitis issues with farm owners, it is discovered that the udder prep techniques they taught their employees are not being practiced in the parlor.

Holding meetings with employees to discuss milk quality helps bridge the communication gap and reinforce farm management expectations in the parlor. These meetings can be used to set scc goals, reemphasize udder prep techniques and discuss other milk quality issues that may be occurring on the farm.

It is also important that all employees helping in the parlor attend these meetings. This leads to uniformity between shifts which may, in turn, help reduce the incidence of mastitis. As a bonus, holding meetings at least on an annual basis helps meet training criteria for the National Dairy FArm Program.

mmPA member rich byma holds employee meetings monthly to discuss scc goals and udder prep techniques and cover other issues that might be occurring on his farm. All employees are required to

Milk Quality Benefits from Monthly Meetings

by lyndsay earl

Source: “Meeting With Employees to Discuss Milk Quality” by Dr. Rebecca Schewe of Mississippi State University.

Source: “Meeting With Employees to Discuss Milk Quality” by Dr. Rebecca Schewe of Mississippi State University.

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attend these meetings to avoid miscommunication between shifts. He stated that since starting the monthly meetings, communication has greatly improved on his farm.

He also believes the meetings have helped improve his farm’s milk quality.

remember: milk quality never improves once it leaves the cow. Therefore, the job farm owners and employees do in the parlor greatly affects the quality of the milk leaving the farm.

Whether you would like to improve your scc or just foster effective communication on the farm, employee meetings may be a good place to start. And don’t forget to check out the mTs schedule below!

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

“milk quality never improves once it leaves the cow.” —lyndsay earl

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Perpetual Transition, Constant Dedication2013 District 10 OYDC Jeremy and Melissa Petzold

by Alex schnabelrauch

J eremy and melissa Petzold don’t have to consult history books to understand recent

dairy farm trends and technology upgrades. They’ve had front row seats, experiencing the transitions firsthand.

When Jeremy returned to the farm after college, his parents were milking 38 cows in a stanchion barn and operating 300 acres. To make room for Jeremy and his brother, the operation expanded to 150 cows and 700 acres, adding a freestall barn and parlor.

Yet, that was just the first transition the Petzolds took in stride. Another came 20 years later accompanied by a much larger price tag.

A Fork in the Road“In 2012 we really had two options: invest substantial money to update the parlor or look at other options. It was a kick in the pants that really made us look at the long-term farm and succession plan,” Jeremy recalls.

At the time, Jeremy’s parents, chester and shirley, were beginning to talk about transitioning off the milking crew. Jeremy’s brother, John, had already settled into his role heading up the field work. That left Jeremy, a self-proclaimed cow man, as the only milker for the future operation. even so, he was the most skeptical when someone brought up the word “robots.”

“He was very careful about every detail – if robots would be good for the cows, if they would pay themselves off, if they would work with our barns. We visited different robotic dairies, multiple times, and he crunched every number possible before he was finally sold on the idea,” melissa elaborates.

breaking ground in July 2012, the Petzolds constructed an addition to the barn and retrofitted their facilities to accommodate three robots. While balancing harvest, the project was completed in just five months. on Dec. 6, 2012, the Petzolds’ farm officially became a robotic dairy, and they haven’t looked back.

Heavy Metal EmployeesJust considering the numbers,

the transition to robots has exceeded the family’s expectations. Productivity has gone up an average of 10 pounds per day. somatic cell counts have dropped 20 percent. breeding rates are through the roof. And economically, the robots are slowly, but surely, paying for themselves.

looking passed the balance sheets, everyone has noticed the cows are calmer and, in the Petzolds’ opinion, happier. Jeremy adds, “They can get up to eat, drink and be milked whenever they want. The cows pick their own schedule. That makes for a more efficient herd.”

Family life has changed as well, giving Jeremy the flexibility to make it to kids’ sporting events and school activities. “everyone asks us what

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Melissa and Jeremy Petzold have weathered the family farm’s many changes, updates and transitions over the past two decades, installing robotic milkers in 2012.

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Jeremy and Melissa PetzoldDistrict 10 OYDC Frankenmuth Local Children: landon (17), serena (14) and Asher (12)

Herd Size: 155 milking, 30 dry

Replacements: 150

Acres Farmed: 700

Crops Grown: corn, alfalfa, soybeans and wheat

Milking Regiment: 24-hour milking capabilities with three lely A4 robotic milkers

Sustainable Practices: reclaimed plate cooler water, reuse of grey water for cleaning, soil sampling

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

Education: Jeremy graduated from millington High school in 1991 and took one year of pre-veterinary and Ag Tech classes (with a dairy focus) at michigan state university. melissa graduated from Vassar High school in 1994, was a licensed emT and is currently a licensed agent in property and casualty insurance and works for Farm bureau Insurance.

Ag, Dairy and Community Involvement: Jeremy and melissa have both served as 4-H volunteers and enjoy hosting informal farm tours for their friends, family and neighbors.

we do with all our free time, but we really don’t have any. our time is just more flexible; we are still finding things we can do and do better to benefit the farm,” Jeremy affirms.

reassigning roles after the latest transition, Jeremy still heads up the cow side of the business, serving as herdsman and the primary robot mechanic. John takes the lead on field work and also handles some of the daily barn chores. melissa is in charge of feeding, treating and taking care of the calves. Jeremy’s parents help fetch cows, handle the accounting and fill in wherever and whenever necessary.

roles have changed. milkers have too. but the Petzolds’ dedication to doing things right, no matter the size or scope, remains.

Planning for the FutureFarm transitions weren’t the only changes melissa has had to adapt to since saying “I do” in 1995. she did not grow up on a farm, but her love for animals helped get her through the tough transition to the long hours and lack of free time that come with farm life. And her love, respect, and admiration for Jeremy has seen her through all the adjustments since. she smiles, “Jeremy is such a hard worker, but he’d never tell you that. He has poured his heart into this business and it shows.”

With three kids and two nephews who may one day be interested in taking over the family farm, the Petzolds have intentionally left the door open for future additions and adaptations to the dairy, including room to add another robot. “We’ve seen the farm through some large transitions over the past 25 years – both physical and personal – and we want to make sure that it’s ready for more if need be,” Jeremy closes.

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Continued from page 12that are sought after by our customers. This adds value to members in two ways. one: the co-op captures additional margins by balancing the local milk supply and converting it into marketable dairy ingredients. Two: member milk growth can be balanced internally instead of selling excess milk at reduced prices to outside customers. (The average member returns and total realized value of the investment were calculated using these two variables.)

As member production surpassed everyone’s expectations, these two value generators have returned exponentially more to member pay prices – an average 15 cents per year since commissioning the new assets – than originally expected.

The Perfect StormWhen mmPA secured the $62 million loan back in 2008, the co-op had no idea its timing couldn’t have been better.

“We embarked on the expansion at a time when interest rates were low and volumes coming into the plant were at an all-time high. Not only were we borrowing money at a favorably low rate, we were able to take advantage of market conditions that favored mmPA’s manufacturing operations,” Joe relays. “We benefitted from the stability of a long-term, low-fixed-rate lease working in tandem with a floating interest rate loan which allowed us to capitalize on the unprecedented low interest rates created by the financial crisis. It was the perfect storm, and our members have reaped the benefits.”

In fact, after four years, more than one-third of the total borrowings has

paid for itself in the form of member pay price returns. Not to mention, the combination of the lease and loan has further enhanced the co-op’s financial position, setting mmPA up for its next step – whatever that may be – with a strong working capital position.

“It’s important to have financial institutions in our corner. our lenders (JP morgan chase and cobank) are committed partners helping mmPA successfully achieve strategic initiatives that continue to add value to our members. With their help, no matter what our next steps might be, mmPA is financially sound and agile enough to adapt to our members’ growing production needs while still offering very competitive pay prices,” Joe concludes.

“over a four-year period, since the ovid plant expansion was completed, we’ve generated 150 percent return on the expansion investment back to members.” - Joe Diglio

The inaugural Great Lakes Crop Summit is a two-day event that will highlight the latest argonomic and business information to help in your farm's success!n Expert speakers from around the Midwest will hold concurrent sessions addressing corn, soy and wheat issues as well as general production techniques.n 12 Restricted Use Pesticide Creditsn 10 Certified Crop Advisor Creditsn Ag Leadership Roundtable n Farm Trade Show

January 22 - 23, 2014

FireKeepers Hotel & Casino

Battle Creek, MII-94 at Exit 104

Great LakesCrop SummitFarmer led, Farmer Focused

CONCURRENT SESSIONS m Great Lakes soybean seed QuaLity report Dr. Seth Naeve, UNiverSity of MiNNeSotam soybeans: VariabLe rate pLantinG MiSSy BaUer, B&M CoNSUltiNg m decidinG Factors For soybean yieLd Dr. laUra liNDSey, ohio State m soybean disease preVention / ManaGeMent Dr. MartiN ChilverS, MSU; Dr. KierSteN WiSe, PUrDUem soybean systeMs: a nationaL approach Dr. Seth Naeve, UNiverSity of MiNNeSota

m corn pLanter adjustMent For top yieLds MiSSy BaUer, B&M CoNSUltiNgm corn nitroGen: GettinG it in the pLant Dr. KUrt SteiNKe, MiChigaN State UNiverSitym corn aFter corn: ManaGinG downside risks Dr. BoB NielSeN, PUrDUe UNiverSitym corn crop stress and yieLds: tiMinG is eVerythinG Dr. BoB NielSeN, PUrDUe UNiverSity

m hiGh yieLd wheat systeMs MiSSy BaUer, B&M CoNSUltiNgm nitroGen & hiGh QuaLity wheat yieLds Dr. KUrt SteiNKe, MiChigaN State UNiverSitym preVention and controL oF wheat diseases Dr. MartiN ChilverS, MSU; Dr. KierSteN WiSe, PUrDUe

SOYBEANCORN

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Bring your farm partners to attend a variety of these concurrent sessions.

The Summit is a convention and trade show brought to you by:n Michigan Wheat Programn Michigan Soybean Promotion Committeen Corn Marketing Program of Michigan

JOIN US! HERE’S HOW...Register Online:www.GreatLakesCropSummit.com

Give Us A Call: (517) 668-2676 or (888) 323-6601

Questions?Email: tsisung@micorn.orgPhone: (888) 323-6601

m a yieLd Map to success m uaVs and roboticsm bees, coLony coLLapse disorder m cLiMate chanGe - what FarMers can expectm MichiGan’s water resourcesm is irriGation the answer?m FieLd MappinG appsm usinG Facebook For your FarM

GENERAL

Registration: $125 before January 8 $100 additional attendees

jan. 22: 9 a.M. - 5 p.M. jan. 23: 7:30 a.M. - 11:30 a.M.

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by Alex schnabelrauch

F our cups. That’s the amount of milk the average food bank

client has access to each year. A far cry from the usDA’s suggested three servings a day, michigan dairy farmers and the Kroger co. of michigan were appalled. but instead of dwelling on the problem, they started fixing it.

one gallon at a time, thousands of Kroger customers helped give fresh, nutritious milk to families in need throughout the metro Detroit and Flint areas during the month of November. The campaign, aptly named “Pour it Forward,” united dairy farmers, Kroger, food banks and consumers to feed the hungry.

“The united Dairy Industry of michigan (uDIm) approached Kroger with the idea in the spring and has been involved in the planning and execution of the program from the very beginning. The collaboration directly aligns with the National Dairy council’s Feeding America partnership, fighting to eliminate hunger and promote healthy food choices. michigan dairy farmers care about the people struggling in their communities, so it’s a no-brainer for uDIm to be involved in filling food banks with the healthy, nutrient-powerhouse that is milk,” uDIm ceo sharon Toth explains.

Donating four million meals to food banks last year, Kroger and its manager of Integrated communications Dale Hollandsworth couldn’t be happier with the partnership, saying, “As a grocery store, we feel a strong responsibility to feed the hungry. The need is enormous as one in every six michiganders, and one in every four michigan children, doesn’t know where they’ll be getting their next meal. milk is a good, nutrient-rich way to fill

people’s stomachs, and we’re proud to give back during the holiday season and beyond.”

uDIm and Kroger partnered with the goal of donating 25,000 gallons of Pure michigan Kroger milk, supplied by mmPA member farms, to families served by two michigan food bank distribution systems – Forgotten Harvest in metro Detroit and the eastern michigan Food bank in Flint. As of November 10, over 8,500 paper milk gallons were

‘Tis the Season of generosity Michigan Dairy Farmers and Kroger “Pour it Forward,” Giving Milk to Those in Need

A gift for the body, from the heart.Forward.pour it

Always a good choice

When you purchase a special gallon milk scan card, available in the dairy department or at any register, 100% of your donation

will help provide Pure Michigan® Kroger Milk to Forgotten Harvest. Give a gift of milk today!

1 gallon =A GLASS OF MILK FOR 16CHILDREN

IS09333_FH_channel_12x13_vFIN.indd 1 10/22/13 11:34 AM

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purchased by Kroger customers, signifying 8,500 donated gallons of milk destined for families in need.

but customers weren’t the only ones rallying behind the campaign. “our employees really got behind and were excited about the program. stores were competing with stores. regional managers were competing with regional managers. michigan is truly a very giving state. From employees to customers, everyone bought into ‘Pour it Forward’ because it hit so close to home,” Kroger marketing media manager brandon barrow relays.

Kroger covered the transportation costs to deliver milk to the food banks (at times and locations and in quantities according to each facility’s needs) as well as advertisements in its paper ads, in-store broadcasting network, dairy case and registers. In total, 102 Kroger stores – close in proximity to the Forgotten Harvest and eastern michigan Food bank coverage zones – participated in the program.

uDIm, in partnership with Kroger and Forgotten Harvest, supported promotion efforts aimed at enhancing the program’s success through traditional and social media outreach. ongoing commitment to quality nutrition and solid relationships with state and national dietetics organizations allowed uDIm to enlist yet other partners to increase the promotion’s support.

The southeastern michigan Dietetic Association (smDA) responded to uDIm’s request to extend the reach of “Pour it Forward” by having its registered dieticians use workplace displays and social media contacts to encourage further participation. The effort was part of smDA’s commitment through an Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics partnership with the National Dairy council to bring more nutrient-rich foods to food banks to ensure children receive adequate nutrition.

“There’s nothing closer to farmers’ hearts than feeding people. everyone, especially those facing food insecurity, need the nutrients

and protein offered by milk and dairy products. michigan dairy farmers are proud to be part of this program and take pride in producing safe, healthy and delicious food for all people,” mmPA member Katie Dellar remarks.

currently, on a pounds basis, dairy products make up only 5.3 percent of the food available at food banks. The partnerships forged through ‘Pour it Forward’ helped distribute milk to more than 260 local food agencies (community food pantries, churches, outreaches, etc.) in four counties.

Addressing michigan dairy farmers and Kroger, Forgotten Harvest executive Director susan Goodell recognizes, “Your gift means so much to the thousands of kids who come home after school with the reassurance that a tall glass of milk awaits them, milk that their mother and father might not have been able to afford that week. This is a gift of health and by our measure a gift of the heart. Thank you.”

“There’s nothing closer to farmers’ hearts than feeding people.”

— mmPA member Katie Dellar

“Pour it Forward” partners during the campaign’s kickoff. Pictured from left to right: UDIM CEO Sharon Toth, MMPA member Jason Dellar, Joan Sycko of the Southeastern Michigan Dietetic Association, MMPA member and Dairy Communicator Katie Dellar, The Kroger Co. of Michigan Division President Jane Homco and Forgotten Harvest Executive Director Susan Goodell.

MMPA member Katie Dellar speaks to a crowd of Forgotten Harvest volunteers and representatives from UDIM and Kroger during the “Pour it Forward” kickoff in November.

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Adrian LocalPresident: clark emmonsV. President: Jim marvin Sec/Treas: Gary stoutDairy Communicators: Geraldine emmons, Joy marvin, maria marvin

Alma Local President: Doug chapinV. President: mike rasmussenSec/Treas: missy PrinsDairy Communicators: cheri chapin, ramona okkema, missy Prins

Barry-Eaton LocalPresident: Jeff butlerV. President: Tim slocumSec/Treas: sally bivensDairy Communicators: michelle Klingaman, Heather Wing, sally bivens

Blossomland LocalPresident: Jerry Koebel, Jr.Sec/Treas: Joshua GambleDairy Communicator: Heather carpenter

Brown City-Marlette LocalPresident: Dale PhillipsV. President: Dan ParrSec/Treas: Dale PhillipsDairy Communicators: rita Phillips, barb radloff, Gertie van den Goor

Chippewa County LocalPresident: David FolkersmaV. President: David bellSec/Treas: loren HoolsemaDairy Communicator: Ann Folkersma

Clare-Mt. Pleasant LocalPresident: William stoughV. President: Douglas stevensSec/Treas: bertha mae stoughDairy Communicators: michelle stough, bertha mae stough

Constantine LocalPresident: richard ultzV. President: clyde millerSec/Treas: richard ThomasDairy Communicator: Judy oesch, richard ultz

Dairyland LocalPresident: Del christensenSec/Treas: brent Wilson

Deckerville LocalPresident: John szymanski, sr. V. President: michael erdmanSec/Treas: Dennis leeDairy Communicator: sara lee

Deford/Clifford-Mayville Local President: ray WolakV. President: calvin bodeisSec/Treas: Alice ZajacDairy Communicators: Diane Foley, Jane Wood

Evart LocalPresident: Gordon DickV. President: William JernstadtSec/Treas: larry buningDairy Communicators: Ken DeZeeuw, Amy martin

Flint LocalPresident: roger blossV. President: Peter JuengelSec/Treas: Daniel Weil

Frankenmuth Local President: larry schumacherV. President: Dennis HetznerSec/Treas: roger WeissDairy Communicators: bethany Weiss, barbara Wardin, Joanmarie Weiss, margie Weiss, eleanor bruse, Debra Kraft, Amy bergdolt

Grand Rapids LocalPresident: Jim GoodV. President: Ken lesemanSec/Treas: Gary PotgeterDairy Communicator: Kay Willcome

Hillman LocalPresident: corby WerthV. President: Jeremy WerthSec/Treas: ron lucasDairy Communicators: Katie Dellar, connie lucas, Janel Woodward

Hillsdale-Litchfield LocalPresident: scott FerryV. President: bruce lewisSec/Treas: carlton evansDairy Communicators: Jennifer lewis, cami marz-evans

Huron LocalPresident: mark ZielV. President: Tim KubackiSecretary: shelly messingTreasurer: Darwin snellerDairy Communicators: Debbie Kubacki, lorelei lutz, shelly messing

Ingham County LocalPresident: Josh lottV. President: John PowellSec/Treas: lynn PowellDairy Communicator: evelyn minnis

Jackson County Plus LocalPresident: Jeffrey AlexanderV. President: rick surbrookSec/Treas: Arthur riskeDairy Communicator: Kathy Heisler

Kalamazoo LocalPresident: Don beverV. President: charles WamhoffDairy Communicator: Tammy spicher

Lansing LocalPresident: Jim DroschaV. President: Daniel ritterSec/Treas: Kristina langmaackDairy Communicators: stacey edick, Kristina langmaack

2013-2014 MMPA Local OfficersM

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Livingston Charter LocalPresident: scott bontekoeV. President: chuck WhiteSec/Treas: Janet WhiteDairy Communicator: Jodi Hill

Menominee-Vacationland LocalPresident: robert barronV. President: scott mellgrenSec/Treas: eleanore bloniarzDairy Communicator: eleanore bloniarz

Mid-Michigan LocalPresident: John HufnagelV. President: Aaron GasperSec/Treas: Kris WardinDairy Communicators: Doreen slavik, carla Wardin, Patti Jandernoa

Mid-Sanilac LocalPresident: James Herberling V. President: steven AlexanderSec/Treas: mike benderDairy Communicator: Jody sharrard

Mid-Thumb LocalPresident: scott lambV. President: robert J. rowley IISec/Treas. William blumerichDairy Communicators: melissa sullivan, robin Falker, Kristie lamb, Doris stuever, Virginia Ankley, Kathleen clinton

Muskegon LocalPresident: bill stakenasV. President: Glen sparksSec/Treas: sharon PowersDairy Communicators: Nancy Johnson, Terri stakenas

Owosso LocalPresident: matt DutcherV. President: David reedSec/Treas: David reedDairy Communicator: Penny reed

Saline-Ann Arbor LocalPresident: Jeff HorningV. President: stan lambarthSec/Treas: Keith WeidmayerDairy Communicators: Arlene DeForest, lynda Horning

Sunrise LocalPresident: Kenneth DanielsV. President: John bennettSecretary: Daniel FiskTreasurer: Jeffrey JakubikDairy Communicators: leona Daniels

Upstate LocalPresident: Glen rubinghV. President: richard FettigSec/Treas: Gail rubinghDairy Communicator: sylvia Verville, Gail rubingh

West Michigan LocalPresident: Paul elzingaV. President: Norm Ter HaarSecretary: William GruppenTreasurer: David PyleDairy Communicators: Jenny elzinga, Arlene Ter Haar

Western U.P. LocalPresident: Gary PolosaariV. President: steve coteySec/Treas: benny HeriouxDairy Communicators: barbara cotey, Gerald miron, Karen Palosaari, Audrey Herioux

102804d_NCBA_426_Standard_Filet_a04.ai

LeoBurnett/NCBA/102804

NCBA 2013 Print

PM: Hopkins

Operator: MP 03/20/13_3:05pm STUDIONEDIGITAL

Leo Burnett • NCBA • “Filet” Standard Ad • 426 • 2013

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102804d_NCBA_426_Standard_Filet_a04.ai

LeoBurnett/NCBA/102804

NCBA 2013 Print

PM: Hopkins

Operator: MP 03/20/13_3:05pm STUDIONEDIGITAL

Leo Burnett • NCBA • “Filet” Standard Ad • 426 • 2013

LEO BURNETT U.S.A.A DIVISION OF LEO BURNETT COMPANY, INC.

Ad No. 426 — Job No. 610-BIBEEAP3001 — NCBA “Filet” Standard Ad — 4C — (T 7.75" x 10.5") — 2013

102804d_NCBA_426_Standard_Filet_a04.ai

Printed in the U.S.A.

CD: L. Shandling AD: M. Hester CW: G. Apfelbach Prod: A. Jarvis

Funded by The Beef Checkoff

Based on USDA data for total fat using a 3 oz. serving of cooked

Tenderloin Filet compared to a 3 oz. serving of cooked skinless chicken thigh.

Get the recipe and 10 essential nutrients all in

one delicious meal at BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com

THAN 3 OZ. OF SKINLESS CHICKEN THIGH.

MAY WE SUGGEST A WAY TO CELEBRATE?

FILET HAS

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

2 June 2012 Michigan Milk Messenger 3

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

Example:

My Sign:

Send Sign To: _____________________________________________________________________ (Name)

______________________________________________________________________ (Address, including house number and road name)

______________________________________________________________________ (City, State and Zip Code)

Method of Payment ($40 per sign): Enclosed is my check or money order for _______as payment for ____ MMPA member sign(s).

Please deduct the cost of the farm sign from my milk check. Permit Number ___________ Location ________________ Hauler _______________

Signature_________________________________________________________

MMPA Member Farm Sign

This 24” x 36” reinforced fiberglass sign comes personalized with your name or farm name on both sides. Resists moisture and other forms of weathering. The cost is $40 per sign.

You can receive a $25 rebate toward the member merchandise program by taking a picture of your sign in-stalled on your farm.

Mail order form and picture for the rebate to: MMPA Member Sign, Michigan Milk Producers Associa-tion, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376.

Please allow 4-5 weeks for delivery.

Order Yours Today!My name (or farm name) should appear as follows: Print clearly in capital letters. One square for each letter, number, punctuation mark or space between words. (Try not to use more than 22 squares.)

A L I N C O L N & S O N S

Your Name

MMPA Member Farm Sign

This 24” x 36” reinforced fiberglass sign comes personalized with your name or farm name on both sides. It resists moisture and other forms of weathering. The cost is $40 per sign. You can receive a $25 rebate toward the member merchandise program by taking a picture of your sign installed on your farm.

Order Yours Today!Farm Name should appear as followsPrint clearly in capital letters. One square for each letter, number, punctuation mark or space between

words. (Try not to use more than 22 squares.)example

A l I N c o l N & s o N smy sign:

send sign To: ______________________________________________ _______ (Name)

_________________________________________________________________

(Address, including house number and road name)

_________________________________________________________________

(city, state and Zip code)

method of Payment ($40 per sign):

enclosed is my check or money order for _______as payment for ____ mmPA member sign(s).

Please deduct the cost of the farm sign from my milk check.

Permit Number ___________ location ________________ Hauler __________

signature _________________________________________________________

Mail order form and picture for the rebate to:

MMPA Member SignMMPA

PO Box 8002Novi, MI 48376.

Please allow 4-5 weeks for delivery.

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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

Calf Blankets and Feeding Equipment

MERChANDISE

L ike it or not, winter is back. let the teeth chattering and shivering begin! staying warm in the winter can also be a challenge for

baby calves. To keep their teeth from chattering, the warehouse stocks calf blankets by udder Tech. These blankets are made of water-resistant nylon and feature a single layer of Thinsulate insulation. This single layer has an r-value of 1.67.

These unique blankets are designed to stay on the calf, are easy to put on and take off and can be machine washed and dried. They feature quick release buckles, no Velcro to get matted, an extra strap length for growth and a belly strap to keep the blanket snug when lying down. Double layer insulated blankets and a smaller size blanket for Jersey and twin calves are available on a special order basis.

Calf Blanket- Regular Stock number: #5636 Member price: $33.61

Snap Cap BottlesThe warehouse also stocks 2 and 3 quart snap cap bottles and snap cap nipples made by the e-Z Nurse company. These bottles feature pint graduations for easy measurement. The snap cap nipple is easy to attach. simply turn the base up and snap the edges

down firmly around the bottle top. This is made easier by warming the nipple with hot water first.

Metal WhiskWe are also stocking a new and improved metal whisk. The whisk is longer and heavier than our previous model. It is a stainless steel 18 inch whisk from land o’ lakes and features more robust whips and a thicker handle for a more secure grip.

2qt Snap Bottle Stock number: #8251 Member Price: $2.75

3qt Snap Bottle Stock number: #8250 Member Price: $3.56

Snap Nipple Only Stock number: #8252 Member Price: $1.44

Mixing Whisk Stock number: #8254 Member Price: $10.00

These items can be ordered by calling the warehouse or by placing an order with your milk hauler.

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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 - 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.

Equipment“Roto Grind” bale chopper, model 760, 1,000 rPm. chops and 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.

Harvestore Silo Unloader, Alliance 2400 20-ft. single phase with 10-hp motor, also oiler with auto arm advance controller, $7,500 obo. call bill 810-648-2379.

Harvestore Roller Mill, 1 excellent shape - 1 for parts, $800 obo. call bill 810-648-2379.

A pair of 3-hp.HP. Scrule compressors, $1,200. IH truck cab and chassis single axle gas and 3500 NH tub grinder $4,500. 269-209-7960 or 269-721-8302.

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

Dairy EquipmentDelaval Auto Wash 3000 pipeline washer. removed and complete. $100. 616-681-9668.

Poly 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 each. some brand new. 231-499-2911 or riversidedairyllc@gmail.com. (ludington, mI) http://www.polydome.com/big_foot_calf_nursery.html

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. 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.  rolling hills, managed woodlands, scenic, a mile from village/school, no development nearby.  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.

Wanted30 or 40 cows on milk consignment. 989-588-9854.

Vertical, stationary TMR mixer, must be able to handle hay. Joseph mishler, Howe, IN. 260-499-4228 ext. 5.

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

Guernseys to purchase for a 4-H showman. Virginia Ankley 810-724-8077.

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.

Classified Ads ($20 per ad up to 6 lines)

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.

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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 REPORT

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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 576,503,103 575,999,263 +0.09

Total Class 2 Sales 179,282,869 287,817,111 -37.71

Total Class 3 Sales 486,718,967 206,829,893 +135.32

Total Class 4 Sales 85,973,920 144,369,141 -40.45

Total Production 1,328,478,859 1,215,015,408 +9.34

Class 1 Utilization 43.4% 47.4%

Current Month Total Producers 6,227Average Daily Production per Farm 6,882Average Protein Test 3.15%Average Butterfat Test 3.79%Average Other Solids Test 5.72%Average SCC Count (MMPA) 171,000

Protein Price/lb. $3.4107

Butterfat Price/lb. $1.6638

Other Solids Price/lb. $0.3852

Class III Price @ 3.5% $ 18.22

Prod. Price Diff/cwt. (Mich. Mkt.) $1.35

Uniform Price @ 3.5% $ 19.57

SCC Adjustment/cwt./1000 $0.00090

2013 2012 % Change Production California 3,339 3,307 +1.0

Wisconsin 2,277 2,256 +0.9

New York 1,113 1,083 +2.8

Idaho 1,106 1,137 -2.7

Pennsylvania 865 863 +0.2

Texas 801 772 +3.8

Michigan 764 744 +2.7

Minnesota 744 746 -0.3

New Mexico 652 656 -0.6

Washington 524 512 +2.3

Ohio 438 446 -1.8

Indiana 315 298 +5.7

* Total U.S. 15,356 15,172 +1.2

* U.S. Y-T-D 156,988 156,026 +0.6

* For 23 states

Monthly Avg

Cheese /lb 1.8025

Butter /lb 1.5454

Nonfat Dry Milk /lb 1.8366

Dry Whey /lb 0.5731

NASS Survey Prices

October 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.

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 Plant Manager/Plant OperationsDavid Wittkop

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

MMPA FIELD STAFFSOUTH 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

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

Christy Dinsmoore Fairgrove 248-513-7920Mastitis Management

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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 576,503,103 575,999,263 +0.09

Total Class 2 Sales 179,282,869 287,817,111 -37.71

Total Class 3 Sales 486,718,967 206,829,893 +135.32

Total Class 4 Sales 85,973,920 144,369,141 -40.45

Total Production 1,328,478,859 1,215,015,408 +9.34

Class 1 Utilization 43.4% 47.4%

Current Month Total Producers 6,227Average Daily Production per Farm 6,882Average Protein Test 3.15%Average Butterfat Test 3.79%Average Other Solids Test 5.72%Average SCC Count (MMPA) 171,000

Protein Price/lb. $3.4107

Butterfat Price/lb. $1.6638

Other Solids Price/lb. $0.3852

Class III Price @ 3.5% $ 18.22

Prod. Price Diff/cwt. (Mich. Mkt.) $1.35

Uniform Price @ 3.5% $ 19.57

SCC Adjustment/cwt./1000 $0.00090

2013 2012 % Change Production California 3,339 3,307 +1.0

Wisconsin 2,277 2,256 +0.9

New York 1,113 1,083 +2.8

Idaho 1,106 1,137 -2.7

Pennsylvania 865 863 +0.2

Texas 801 772 +3.8

Michigan 764 744 +2.7

Minnesota 744 746 -0.3

New Mexico 652 656 -0.6

Washington 524 512 +2.3

Ohio 438 446 -1.8

Indiana 315 298 +5.7

* Total U.S. 15,356 15,172 +1.2

* U.S. Y-T-D 156,988 156,026 +0.6

* For 23 states

Monthly Avg

Cheese /lb 1.8025

Butter /lb 1.5454

Nonfat Dry Milk /lb 1.8366

Dry Whey /lb 0.5731

NASS Survey Prices

October 2013