michigan milk messenger: july 2013

Michigan Milk Messenger 1

July 2013Volume 96 Issue 1

2 July 20132 June 2012 Michigan Milk Messenger 3


Contents

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

An Equal Opportunity Employer – F/M/V/D

Michigan 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. P.O. Box 8002

Novi, MI 48376-8002 Telephone: 248-474-6672 FAX: 248-474-0924

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)

MMPA Matters ............................................... 5Quality Watch ................................................. 6News & Views ................................................. 8Legislative Watch ........................................... 10Merchandise Memo ....................................... 24Freeliners ....................................................... 26Classifieds...................................................... 28Policies .......................................................... 29Market Report ............................................... 30MMPA Lab Lines .......................................... 31MMPA Staff .................................................. 31

On the Cover

Volume 96 Issue 1www.mimilk.com

Departments

FeaturesJuly 2013

20


July 2013Volume 96 Issue 1

18

129 MMPA Welcomes Director of Quality Amandeep Dhillon

10 The Wardins Travel to Washington, D.C.

12 The Rest of the Story: Robotic Milkers

15 34th Annual Ag Expo, July 16-18 at Michigan State University

16 Ice Cream, Cows and Fun, Oh My!

17 MSU Food Systems Fellowship Intern Ashley Cooley

18 2013 MMPA 4-H Tour

20 MSU to Host 4-H Dairy Days and 17th Annual Michigan Dairy Expo July 15-19

23 MMPA John Dilland Fellowship Intern Cassie Parks

Once again this year, Kroger stores in Michigan will feature MMPA member farms on signs in the dairy section. This is just one of many ways Kroger works to connect the farm to consumers at the retail level.

4 July 2013

Officers President: Ken NobisVice President: Bob KranTreasurer: Mark Halbert General Manager/Secretary: Clay Galarneau Ass’t. Treasurer: Joe DiglioGeneral Counsel: David VanderHaagen

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

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.

Mission Statement“To market our members’ milk to the

greatest advantage possible.”

Michigan Milk Producers Association

Advisory Committee

Board of Directors

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

FRONT ROW (l-r): Mark Halbert, Treasurer, Director-at-Large; Hank Choate, District 1; Brad Ritter, District 6; Ken Nobis, President, Director-at-Large; Bob Kran, Vice President, District 11; James Reid, District 7; Leonard Brown, District 8; Clay Galarneau, General Manager/Secretary. BACK ROW (l-r): Brent Wilson, District 5; Joe Diglio, Director of Finance/Assistant Treasurer; David VanderHaagen, General Counsel; Dan Javor, District 4; Rodney Daniels, Director-at-Large; Tim Hood, District 2; Eric Frahm, District 10; John Kronemeyer, District 12.

District SixAaron Gasper, Lowell 616-897-2747 Anthony Jandernoa, 989-593-2224 St. Johns David Reed, Owosso 989-723-8635 Kris Wardin, St Johns 989-640-9420

District SevenBill Blumerich, Berlin 810-395-2926Pat Bolday, Emmett 810-395-7139 Scott Lamb, Jeddo 810-327-6135Chuck White, Fowlerville 517-521-3564

District EightMike Bender, Croswell 810-679-4782Tim Kubacki, Sebewaing 989-883-3249Dale Phillips, Marlette 989-635-7917Steve Schulte, Harbor Beach 989-479-9339

District TenJohn Bennett, Prescott 989-345-4264Ken Daniels, Sterling 989-654-2546Rod Fowler, Chesaning 989-845-6131Scott Kleinhardt, Clare 989-386-8037

District ElevenJim Good, Caledonia 616-891-1414Frank Konkel, Hesperia 231-854-8041 David Pyle, Zeeland 616-772-1512Bill Stakenas, Free Soil 231-757-9340

District TwelveRobert Barron, Gladstone 906-786-7027Dave Folkersma, Rudyard 906-478-3023Corby Werth, Alpena 989-379-3772Jeremy Werth, Alpena 989-464-4022

District 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 269-671-5050Francis Burr, Mendon 269-778-3552Richard 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


MMPA MattersBy Ken Nobis

President

National Dairy Policy Efforts Continue

Spring 2013 has been a reversal of spring 2012 for most of us, moving

from an early dry season to a late wet season this year. Inconsistencies, especially in weather patterns, are no surprise to anyone. One thing that has been consistent, though, is our effort to see the Dairy Security Act of the farm bill passed. That effort will be heading in a new direction soon as a result of the farm bill being voted down in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The farm bill provided a focal point to many discussions at the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) board meeting last month that I attended in my role as first-vice-chair. NMPF keeps its hand on the pulse of what’s happening in the nation’s capital, and MMPA does its best to take positive action in the legislative process as well. MMPA contacted every representative in our membership area, many of them multiple times, urging them to support the farm bill and emphasizing the importance of including the Dairy Security Act in the bill. We met face-to-face with as many as schedules permitted. It is easy to lose faith in the operation of our government in Washington, D.C., but Michigan has some legislators who recognize the importance of agriculture.

Among these are Congressman Dan Benishek, Republican, and Congressman Dan Kildee, a recently elected Democrat. They requested an ag “briefing” recently. Congressman Benishek is a physician elected in 2010 and reelected in 2012. He requested to be on the House Agriculture Committee and he got his

wish in January 2013. Congressman Benishek is eager to know more about agriculture, which I suppose presents quite a learning curve coming from a career in the hospital operating room. Congressman Kildee comes from an urban background so he, too, wants to learn more about this important part of our economy.

A forum highlighting Michigan agriculture was developed to fill this request for information, and I presented the dairy portion. Topics included our national ranking in dairy production, jobs created by our industry, why Michigan is a good place to produce milk, trends in consumption, challenges of the global marketplace and (of course) the farm bill.

The farm bill moved out of the House Ag Committee with strong bipartisan support, but after that the House of Representatives failed to pass it by a vote of 195 to 234 on June 20. At this point I don’t know what the path forward will look like. Both the Senate-passed version and the House Ag Committee version of the proposed farm bill saved taxpayer dollars and provided a better safety net for farmers

than the current program. In spite of these facts, the House chose to reject reform and farm program spending reduction at a time when government spending is out of control. We will continue to advocate for reforms that establish a fiscally responsible safety net that is relevant in the global economy of the 21st century.

Another important function at the national level is to manage Cooperatives Working Together (CWT). The NMPF board, responding to the CWT Committee, voted to extend the program through December 31, 2015 to avoid a December 31, 2013 sunset. It also voted to establish the funding level at 4 cents per hundredweight, enough to run the program and maintain, if not increase, the export levels achieved in the last few years. The wisdom and foresight shown by NMPF to support this vital program becomes even more apparent in the face of the defeat of the farm bill and the safety net it would have provided.

The June meeting of the NMPF board was a busy one where dairy industry representatives worked together in unison to try to resolve issues that we face each day. I look forward to sharing updates about these issues in the coming weeks.

The wisdom and foresight shown by

NMPF to support this vital program (CWT) becomes even more

apparent in the face of the defeat of the Farm

Bill and the safety net it would have provided.

6 July 2013

By Dean LetterMMPA Manager of Producer Testing

and Herd Health Programs

Quality WatchBy Dean Letter

Director of Member Services

MMPA Wishes Tom Herremans Farewell

By the time you read this, Tom Herremans will have worked his

last day as one of MMPA’s mastitis management specialists. Tom started with MMPA in March 1982 after a career as a vocational agriculture instructor and FFA advisor. Over this time, much has changed in MMPA and milk quality, and Tom had a lot do with facilitating some of these changes.

In 1982, MMPA had 4,700 member farms that produced 3.4 billion pounds of milk. According to the National Agriculture Statistics Service, the average cow in Michigan produced about 13,500 pounds of milk per year. The legal limit for somatic cells (SCC) was 1,500,000 cells/mL. At that time, MMPA did not pay SCC premiums.

Since 1982, the average dairy cow increased production to 23,700 pounds annually. The legal limit for somatic cells was reduced; first to 1,000,000 cells/mL in 1986, then to 750,000 cells/mL in 1993. As you may know, many dairy organizations have pushed to reduce the legal limit to 400,000 cells/mL in the past few years, without success.

Today, in 2013, MMPA has about 1,300 member farms producing over 4 billion pounds of milk. Since 2012, MMPA maintains compliance with the new European Union SCC limit of 400,000 cells/mL at the farm level. Over the past couple of years, the co-op average SCC has consistently been under 200,000 cells/mL and continues to make progress toward the 150,000 benchmark. Tom played a large role in this milk quality improvement.

During Tom’s career at MMPA, he made monumental contributions to MMPA’s mastitis management program. Tom’s curiosity in the milking machine’s role in udder health led to work with the Milk Machine

Committee at the National Mastitis Council (NMC). With his help, the committee developed guidelines which described the parameters of proper milking machine function. This group also developed a standardized protocol for checking milking machine performance.

In 1995, Tom began development of MMPA’s Milker Training Schools (MTS). The first school took place in February 1996 in Carson City. Since then, over 4,000 people have taken part in the schools. Tom continues to be a pioneer in modern milking procedures, acknowledging the impact people have on udder health and milking machine performance.

Early on, Tom emphasized the need for increased teat end sanitation. People attending one of Tom’s schools may remember that there were only four ways a cow can get mastitis – left front, right front, left rear and right rear. He emphasized that through improved teat end sanitation, bacteria numbers are reduced which lessens the opportunity for udder infection.

Over the years, through MTS, members learned how udder prep timing can influence milker machine function. Tom emphasized stimulation to attendees; he stressed that incorporating teat and teat end massage into the recommended udder prep routine improves teat sanitation and provides the 10 to 20 seconds of stimulation the cow needs to trigger an oxytocin release from the pituitary gland.

Tom has also discussed the importance of lag time – the amount of time from the onset of stimulation to milk cluster attachment – throughout his tenure. “Sixty to 90 seconds! Sixty to 90 seconds!” Tom wanted producers

to allow enough time for the oxytocin to take effect in the udder, but not so much time that the oxytocin would be gone before the cow finished milking. His emphasis on proper timing improved milk flow rates and often improved milking speed. Members left the schools with a new appreciation for the job people do in the milking barn or parlor.

Thankfully, MMPA has a group of people to pick up where Tom has left off. Steve Lehman and Christy Dinsmoore will continue the cooperative’s focus on mastitis management and milk quality. Both Steve and Christy can provide expertise in various aspects of mastitis management. Steve manages a group of member reps, providing milking machine analysis based on NMC protocol, while Christy has taken the lead on MTS. With the help of Steve, Christy and other co-op staff, MMPA will maintain its commitment to milk quality and mastitis management.

Tom has made a tremendous impact on the Member Services Department during his 31-year career at MMPA. We wish to take this opportunity to thank Tom for 31 great years and wish him every happiness and success in his future endeavors!

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8 July 2013

News & ViewsThe latest dairy news

Upcoming Events

July16-18 Ag Expo East Lansing

15-19 Michigan Dairy Expo East Lansing

May Class III Continues to Climb

The May Class III milk price is $18.52 per hundredweight, up 93 cents from April and $3.29 above last year. Similarly, May Class IV milk is up 79 cents from April at $18.89. That’s $5.34 higher than May 2012. Analysts project this will be the summer’s price peak and expect June prices to decline.

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

MMPA ConstantineMay 2013Matthew Dunks Kevin/Mark Klingaman Thomas Pierce N. Randy/Eric Bleich Jake Eicher Sparks Cederlee Farm LLC

MMPA VanderploegMay 2013Vanderploeg Holsteins II LLC

MMPA Green MeadowsMay 2013Green Meadow Farms Inc *Green Meadow Farms Inc

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Mastitis Bacteriology and Decision Making Workshop Slated for August 3

Want to get a better handle on what causes mastitis in your herd? You can.

On Saturday, August 3 from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Michigan State University (MSU) Extension will offer a workshop on the organisms that cause mastitis and how you can use on-farm or in-clinic culturing techniques to identify those organisms.

This workshop will teach dairy producers, employees, veterinary technicians and other industry professionals basic mastitis bacteriology, milk culturing techniques and interpretation and application of culture results for both individual cow and the dairy herd. It will help dairy producers develop a mastitis control program specific to the challenges that their herd faces.

Participants will practice plating milk samples, utilizing diagnostic bacterial typing methods, examining cultures of various organisms and determining unknown cultures. Animart has donated a complete starter kit for on-farm milk culturing that will be given away to one participant.

The workshop will be offered at the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine, in the Buchanan Room, on the East Lansing campus. Class size is limited to 16 with a minimum of 12 participants. The class will be taught by Ron Erskine and Andres Contreras from the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine along with MSU Extension Educator Phil Durst.

Registration cost is $115 and includes lab supplies, lunch, snacks and a parking pass. To register, send a check payable to “MSU” to:

Dr. Ron Erskine, 736 Wilson Rd., LACS D202 VMC, E. Lansing, MI 48824

For more information, contact Ron at [email protected] or 517-353-4637 or Phil at [email protected] or 989-387-5346. For a copy of the flier, visit http://dairyteam.msu.edu.

On-farm culturing can help you identify the invaders that reduce milk quality and improve udder health in your herd.


MMPA Welcomes Director of QualityAmandeep Dhillon

Amandeep Dhillon joined MMPA in late April as the co-op’s new director

of quality. Working in tandem with the plants and Product Sales Department, Amandeep’s goal is to make MMPA “the food safety and quality leader amongst U.S. dairy cooperatives by delivering exceptional products and services to customers.” Her ambitious goals and can-do spirit have made Amandeep a welcomed and valuable addition to the cooperative.

“We are pleased to add a person of Amandeep’s level of experience and technical expertise to our management team,” says MMPA General Manager Clay Galarneau. “Our attention to food quality and safety has been a key component to our past success and will drive future growth opportunities for our members.”

Amandeep’s first item of business is to get both MMPA plants Safe Quality Foods (SQF) certified. SQF certification is recognized and required by many global retailers, food processors and foodservice providers. Consequently, this certification will increase MMPA’s marketing power and access to customers at home and abroad.

In addition to SQF certification, Amandeep is charged with overseeing and improving quality and food safety management systems as well as training and developing quality personnel. She aims to empower these personnel with the qualities and skills they need to be vigilant quality assurance touch points to ensure the safety and marketability of MMPA products.

She adds, “My goal is to increase our members’ value by ensuring the dairy ingredients we formulate at the plants exceed U.S. and worldwide customer quality and safety expectations. Fostering a culture of continuous improvement through the use of monitoring systems and tangible key performance indicators, we can measure employee performance to enhance the return on our members’ investment.”

Touting over a decade of food safety and quality assurance experience, Amandeep has served as global food safety director and a quality assurance executive for multiple Fortune 500 and Fortune 50 companies globally. With a master’s degree in microbiology and food technology, her scientific background, people management expertise and experience with food industry processes offer a unique, dynamic skill set to the position.

While Amandeep grew up in India, her overarching goal is to help the U.S. reclaim its spot as the world’s food industry leader. She explains, “I want to help improve MMPA’s position globally and bring the rest of the dairy and food industry along with us. By improving the quality of our food ingredients at the plants, we can better accomplish our mission ‘to market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.’”

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MILKTESTPREGNANCY

10 July 2013

Legislative WatchIssues important to today’s dairy farmers

The Wardins Travel to Washington, D.C.

The day everyone met in

Washington, D.C. for the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) Young Cooperator (YC) Dairy Policy and Legislative Forum is the same day the Senate passed the farm bill. Coincidence?

Yes, completely. But it set a great backdrop for the meeting.

As the chair couple of the 2013 NMPF YC Advisory Council, our first task was to help plan the YC section of the NMPF annual meeting in Phoenix this coming fall. We then gathered with 60 YCs from around the county and heard from NMPF President Jerry Kozak and NMPF Chief Operating Officer Jim Mulhern about the current issues in our industry. We had a question and answer session with the staff about the farm bill, immigration, REAL Seal® and other topics of interest.

Due to flash floods, the YCs settled for a bus tour of D.C. and socialized afterward. It was all farm talk and funny stories. Conversing with young farmers from all over the country – whether their business situations are the same or different – is a great part of these meetings.

The next day, the NMPF staff presented the latest information about current agricultural issues. Then we were all off to Capitol Hill to meet with our respective state representatives.

Shelia Burkhardt, Kris and I met with staff in Sen. Carl Levin, Rep. Dave

Camp and Sen. Debbie Stabenow’s offices. We spoke with them about the Dairy Security Act, immigration reform and trade issues that are affecting the dairy industry today. They were receptive and asked good questions. It was nice being able to make the case for our interests in person, instead of by email like usual.

At night, we went to a Capitol Hill reception celebrating the dairy

industry. It was interesting mingling with the interns, dairy industry people and government staffers. When people asked what company I worked for, it was fun to tell them that I was an actual farmer.

On our last morning, we attended the NMPF Political Action Committee breakfast where Rep. Frank Lucas, chair of the House Agriculture

Committee, spoke passionately about the farm bill.

After that, we sat in on the NMPF board meeting. One of the best parts of attending the meeting was seeing up close how our NMPF board and staff are doing their best to ensure our industry has a secure future. Whether they’re speaking to the group or talking to you one-on-one, there’s no mistaking the passion they possess for their work in agriculture. While we’re producing milk, they’re doing their best to make sure we have a viable market and fair laws.

On our last evening in D.C., Speaker John Boehner – for the first time – publically supported a vote on the farm bill.

Coincidence? Of course. But it provided a tidy ending for the trip.

We’d like to thank MMPA for giving us the chance to lobby, see our national organization at work and meet with other young dairy farmers. We greatly appreciate the opportunity.

Kris and Carla Wardin (right) meet with Adam Pradko (left) in Rep. Dave Camp’s office.


MMPAFor the second time in a year, the

Senate approved a comprehensive farm bill containing the dairy policy reforms backed by the National Milk Producers Federation. The Senate passed the Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act of 2013 by a vote of 66-27 on June 10.

The Senate measure contains the Dairy Security Act (DSA) backed by NMPF and its farmer members, which creates a more effective safety net for dairy producers.

“On this strong bi-partisan vote, the Senate has again shown its determination to put politics aside, and work to implement new and better policies for America, including the country’s dairy farmers,” said Jerry Kozak, President and CEO of NMPF. “NMPF appreciates the determination of the leaders of the Senate, and in particular, the leaders of the Agriculture Committee, Sens. Stabenow

and Cochran, for shepherding this historic legislation through the Senate.”

The farm bill moved to the U.S. House the week of June 17 where, after voting on 103 amendments to the bill, Representatives failed to pass the final version of the bill.

“We always knew we faced a difficult challenge in the more urban and suburban-oriented House, especially with House Speaker John Boehner personally committed to defeating the Dairy Security Act, “ said Kozak. “But we’re hopeful that the House and Senate will eventually find a way to write a compromise farm bill. When they do, we believe the agriculture conferees who develop that final bill will understand the importance of the more balanced approach to dairy policy contained in the Senate-passed farm bill.”

During the amendment process, Reps. Goodlatte and Scott offered and House members adopted an amendment to strip out the Dairy Market Stabilization program from the DSA. “The House rejection of its Agriculture Committee’s dairy proposal, which included margin insurance plus market stabilization, is a fiscally reckless vote, with negative implications for the dairy producer sector, but also for the entire farm bill,” said Kozak. “By eliminating the market stabilization component, the Goodlatte-Scott amendment removed the cost control mechanism from this measure, greatly increasing government and taxpayer cost exposure.”

The current farm bill expires at the end of September following a nine-month extension approved in January 2013, when the House failed to move last year’s farm bill proposal to the full floor for a vote.

Failure to Pass Farm Bill a Disappointment to Dairy Farmers

Attention Young Dairy Cooperators:Join Fellow YCs on a Trip to

World Dairy Expo ‘13!

If you’ve ever wondered what all the excitement is about in Madison, Wis. the first week of October, now’s your chance

to be there in person! Join fellow Michigan young dairy farmers for a trip to World Dairy Expo, October 3-5.

Who: Michigan Young Dairy Farmers (age 18-41)

What: Huge Dairy Trade Show, World Class Dairy Cattle Show and a Farm Tour on the way to Wisconsin

When: October 3 -5, 2013

Where: Madison, Wisconsin

Cost: Round-trip ground transportation from Michigan & two dinners provided. Room cost ($149 + tax/room per night), gate entrance ($10/day) and lunches paid by participants.

Space is Limited!To reserve a spot, request a

registration form from Laura Moser at

[email protected] or 517-652-4524 and return it by August 15 with a $50 deposit

per person.

Questions? Call Laura Moser 517-652-4524.

12 July 2013

No matter how many times you’ve watched a laser eye flawlessly detect each teat or milk cups seamlessly attach and milk each quarter, there’s something

intriguing about robotic milkers. Increasing in prevalence, more dairy farmers are asking about the practicality and feasibility of robots.

You’ve got questions. Our members have answers.

Three MMPA members, operating two brands, tackle the common questions and debunk the myths of robotic milkers.

What was the best part of switching to robots? What are the advantages?

Abigail: We have more time to spend with family and do other things (on and off the farm) that need to be done. Robots do all of the milking which means less physical stress on our bodies. The cows are more comfortable, rested and milked more often. (Plus, this year it gave us more time to devote to planting corn when we had dry weather.)

Amy: The big advantages are decreased labor, more time to spend with family, increased cow comfort and reduced stress placed on the cows.

Margie: We’re able to be on time to wedding receptions and other parties too, without the hassle of lining up someone to milk the cows. The rush to get out in the morning is gone, so we can relax and let winter and spring storms blow over before going out. The cows now have the entire day to

themselves. They are much calmer around us when we walk through the barn because they know we are not coming to push them somewhere.

What was the hardest part of switching to robots? What are the disadvantages?

Abigail: Initial training of cows and changing their routine. A machine can be unforgiving to a scared animal that doesn’t know what to expect. We’ve also found that the robot’s program is not set to as high of quality standards as we have. We have had to be vigilant in catching cows cropping up with mastitis.

Amy: Retraining employees was more difficult than we expected. Retraining cows to think for themselves was tough.

Margie: Now, it’s harder to find a time to work with the cows. There is no “best time” for herd health, hoof trimming, vaccinating, etc., because no matter when you schedule it in a robotic system, there is disruption in the cows’ day.

How long did it take to train the cows?

Abigail: Four days to remove gates and 2 ½ months for the cows to be fully adapted.

Amy: Most learned to enter the robot within a few days.

Margie: Within one week the gates were out, and within three weeks they were all using the robot on their own.

The Rest of the Story: Robotic MilkersAnswering the Frequently Asked Questions from Firsthand Experience

Farm Name: Lemajru Dairy Farm LLCOperator Quoted: Abigail O’FarrellNumber of Cows: 140 (milking and dry)Type of Robotic System: Lely Astronaut A4Number of Robots: 2Setup: Retrofitted Freestall BarnInstallation Date: February 13, 2013

Farm Name: Gingrich MeadowsOperator Quoted: Amy MartinNumber of Cows: 300 milkingType of Robotic System: GEA MiOne multi-box systemNumber of Robots: 8Setup: New BarnInstallation Date: April 2012

Farm Name: Weiss Centennial FarmOperator Quoted: Margie WeissNumber of Cows: 55 milking (150 cows and heifers)Type of Robotic System: LELY Astronaut A3Number of Robots: 1Setup: Retrofitted BarnInstallation Date: June 16, 2011


Continued on page 14

What’s the lifespan of each robot?

Margie: LELY still has some Astronaut A1s in operation that were installed in 1993. They have a very proactive maintenance plan, and I am confident in at least a 20-year lifespan for our robot.

How many cows do you have to “fetch” per day? What’s your fetch criteria?

Abigail: Our fetch list ranges from 5 to 10 percent of the herd now that the cows are fully adapted. It is dependent on feed, weather and stage of lactation. We fetch cows that exceed 12 hours since last milking, new fresh cows or cows that have two or less milkings per day.

Amy: Our fetch list depends on each cow’s typical daily production versus their trips to the robot. We fetch four times a day.

How many times does the robot call you per day/week? What criteria are you using for calls?

Amy: Probably, on average, we get called three nights a week because of a disabled box.

Margie: Our robot calls only if it cannot milk cows because of a problem. It seems to go in streaks. There will be a month where it calls maybe once, and then it gets a bug and will call once a day for four days straight.

What has your production done since the switch? Quality? Labor needs?

Abigail: Our production has gone up by 10 pounds per head thus far. Our true milking time is down to about three to four hours compared to 10 hours per day in the old system. Our PIC and raw bacteria count are slightly higher, but are coming down. Our SCC is the same with more cows going into the tank. Our biggest glitch in quality was our freeze point and the inability of the tank to fully drain post-wash when the motor acted up.

Margie: Prior to the robot, the cows averaged 60 pounds per day. Since we started with the robot, production has steadily climbed. We now average 80-85 pounds on a consistent basis. Our milk quality has gotten a bit worse. We used to average about 100,000 SCC in the stanchion barn. We are now at around 125,000.

What additional information does the robot(s) provide?

Abigail: Heat detection, rumination information, conductivity of each quarter, time it takes each quarter to milk out, pounds of milk per day and temperature of the milk.

Amy: We pay most attention to the conductivity and heat activity.

Margie: I get milk weight, butterfat, protein, conductivity

(SCC) and color. I also get a weight, activity reading and rumination reading for each cow. The LELY T4C program transfers and interprets the data into user-friendly graphs and tables to make management easy and efficient.

How has this additional information changed your management decisions?

Abigail: It has allowed us to pinpoint cull cows that are less productive in our system. We have been able to catch more subclinical mastitis cases and metabolic problems. It also helps us catch more animals in heat.

Amy: We get accurate daily milk production numbers and can monitor herd health and production more closely.

Margie: The biggest difference is the breeding program. Before the robot, I had a 35 percent conception rate. I estimated a pregnancy to cost about $42 (semen and labor cost). Since we started using the robot, I no longer need the Timed AI program, and my conception rate is typically 40-45 percent and costs about $22 per pregnancy. In addition, I can now make informed, economically-sound decisions on who to cull based on production and components in their milk.

How did you decide what system to implement?

Abigail: We considered each company’s experience here and abroad. The technical service with Lely has been amazing!

Amy: We visited lots of farms outside Michigan. Out of all the systems we toured, our dealer and the GEA robot rose to the top.

How have you personalized the robot setup and procedure?

Abigail: Our wash prep is almost the same as our old system. I have the conductivity warning set at a tighter standard than the program standard so that I can hopefully catch cows before they become a full-fledge mastitis case.

Amy: There is a lot that can be adjusted, such as prep time, pulsation and vacuum, that caters to our individual herd needs and setup.

How do you develop the pellet ration? How has that impacted your TMR?

Abigail: In our previous setup, we already offered grain in the parlor. We used that nutrient base in pellet form. Since we had previously fed dry hay (not mixed in the ration), we needed to mix the hay with the silage mix and needed a new mixer to do the job. Since that point, we have tweaked the PMR ration in the bunk to entice the cows to eat more pellets at the robot.

Amy: With robots, producers want an energy-dense pellet. We feed for 60 pounds of milk in TMR and the rest of our nutrition regiment is offered through the robot.

14 July 2013

Margie: We now feed a partial mixed ration (PMR) at the bunk, which is set to meet the needs for 60 pounds of milk. The pellet then provides energy and protein for the additional milk each cow gives. For every 10 pounds of production, the cows get 1 pound of pellets. The pellet has to be very hard and palatable to the cows to get them to milk on their own.

What is the average number of milkings per cow per day?

Abigail: 2.7-2.9

Amy: 2.7

Margie: We average between 3.0 and 3.3 visits per day. Early lactation cows come 4-5 times, and late lactation cows come 1-1.5 times per day.

How many cows failed to make the transition?

Abigail: All but one cow made the transition. (She tried to outsmart the robot and kicked the arm when she ran out of pellets, causing her to fail. She would then come back around to be milked again, receiving more pellets. This time she would fail because she did not have enough milk in her udder and the milker would squawk and fail her again. She would fail up to eight times a day to get pellets, and we ran out of patience with her!) We sold eight cows for dairy purposes to give the cows more free time to come up to the robot.

Amy: None – all of our cows made the transition.

How often do you change the filter sock? Other do-it-yourself maintenance?

Abigail: Socks are changed three times a day. We check inflations and take off ropes two times a day at clean up and when there’s a high rate of failures.

Amy: We change the sock four times per day and clean the robot boxes two times per day.

How often is company maintenance required?

Amy: We have scheduled quarterly maintenance. The cost is comparable to parlor maintenance cost.

Margie: The service dealer comes out four times per year to replace all of the consumable parts on the robot and also does a thorough checkup. We are two years in, and we can fix almost all of the problems we encounter. However, if we do have something that requires the dealer (maybe two times per year), they are quick to respond. The cost is no more than what it cost to have service done in our old stanchion barn.

Is robotic milking economically feasible?

Abigail: When I calculated the payback period for robots, factoring labor savings, I found that they could pay for themselves in just over five years. But, because of the time saved, we are able to pursue other ventures that can

bring in additional revenue and help pay for the robots faster. I would recommend that any producer looking into robots talk with their banker early and take them to see a robot in action. Hopefully they won’t give them the blank stare treatment that we received when asking for the loan. Financing was our biggest hurdle.

Amy: Robots are economical when compared to a new parlor, taking into account labor savings. Visit many different farms to see how they operate.

Margie: Our loan is a seven-year loan with a payment of about $3,000 per month. Based on the increased milk yield alone, the robot nearly pays for itself. Factor in improved cow health and our lifestyle, and it is definitely economically feasible.

If you could go back, would you do it again? What would you do differently?

Abigail: No regrets. We wish we could have done it sooner! We would slightly redesign our holding pen to make it larger and easier to scrape with the skidsteer.

Amy: We would definitely do it all over again! We have no regrets switching to robots. The labor savings and reduced employee turnover has removed a lot of the time and stress involved with training new people.

Margie: This has been the best decision we’ve made in the last 10 years, both from a labor standpoint as well as an economic standpoint. There is one thing I would change. Some other barn layouts use a sort gate after the robot to put special needs cows into their own pen. They then have access to feed and water and also a return alley to the robot. In essence, they are in their own group. In our small herd, fresh heifers are put out in the barnyard with mature boss cows immediately after their first milking. A separation pen would give those heifers a chance to recuperate from calving. It would also make fetching them to the robot easier and less disruptive to the rest of the herd.

“Robots are not for everyone. They require a different type of management

than a traditional farm. You need to be proactive in maintenance, able to adapt to new technology and comfortable learning constantly. Robots adjust how you manage

cows, but they do not take away the necessity to be with the cows.”

— Abigail O’Farrell, Lemarju Dairy


Ag Expo, Michigan’s largest outdoor farm show, returns to the Michigan

State University (MSU) campus July 16-18 for the 34th time, bringing a variety of educational and commercial activities and exhibits to the state’s agricultural community as well as to homeowners, families and anyone who wants to know more about agriculture.

This year, Ag Expo will bring participants the latest technology in agricultural production, current research findings from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) faculty and a full schedule of demonstrations and educational sessions to help manage farms and businesses.

“Ag Expo is one of those events that really pulls people in from all over the state,” said CANR Dean Fred Poston. “I’m looking forward to getting back there. There’s something for everyone at Ag Expo, from the novice grower to the experienced farmer.”

Across the expo grounds, nearly 250 exhibitors will feature products and services that help Michigan agricultural producers continue to succeed. MMPA will be in attendance, promoting the

addition of the co-op’s new butter churn in Ovid.

Demonstrations on equine pastures, sprayers, tillage, mortality composting and biodiesel processing will be available. Visitors can test drive wheel loaders, telehandlers and skidsteers. Wheelchair users can test drive chairs in tough terrain and learn about customized tools to make jobs around the farm easier. Youth can try their hand at a simulated commodities marketing display in the CANR tent. MI-Alpaca will be on hand to demonstrate the spinning and skirting of alpaca fleece. Additionally, this year, senior CANR leaders will provide an update on college activities.

“We take great pride in Ag Expo,” Poston said. “It’s a great place to showcase the work that’s being done in our college, MSU Extension and AgBio Reseach. We are looking forward to connecting with our alumni, stakeholders and friends throughout the week of Expo.”

The event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 16 and 17, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 18. Admission to the grounds and parking at Farm Lane and Mt. Hope Road are free.

For more information about Ag Expo, call 800-366-7055 or visit www.agexpo.msu.edu.

34th Annual Ag Expo, July 16-18 at Michigan State University

July 16-18, 2013Tuesday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. • Wednesday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. • Thursday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

For 2013 exhibitor or visitor information visit our website:

www.agexpo.msu.edu or call: 1-800-366-7055

On June 15, several MMPA Novi employees and their families traveled to St. Clair County to attend Breakfast at the Farm at the home of MMPA board member Jim Reid. The employees enjoyed learning more about member farms and participating in all of the fun activities during the day.

There are four more Breakfast on the Farm events planned for this year. Take these opportunities to bring a non-farming friend or neighbor out to a farm so they can learn more about today’s modern farms.

July 13, Walt Dairy Farm, Coopersville (Ottawa County).

Aug. 17, Humm Farm, LLC, Breckenridge (Gratiot County).

Sept. 7, Black Locust Farms, LLC, Stanton (Montcalm County).

Sept. 21, Ferry Farms, LLC, Litchfield (Hillsdale County).

MMPA Staff Enjoy Breakfast on the Farm

16 July 2013

Families, summer camps, daycare providers and kids of all ages (and the young at heart) will want to head to Michigan State University

(MSU) on July 17 for the 16th annual Great Dairy Adventure. The family-oriented and volunteer-operated educational event is a fun family outing and a popular field trip destination for many summer children’s programs. The event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the MSU Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education located on the MSU campus on Farm Lane between Mt. Hope and Forest roads. There is no admission fee to attend the Great Dairy Adventure, and parking is free.

In addition to enjoying a variety of free dairy treats, children of all ages can take their turn milking a cow by hand, petting calves, experimenting with dairy recipes and creating craft projects, all while learning about cows, dairy farming and the importance of consuming dairy products as part of a healthy lifestyle. MSU athletes will also be on site for autographs and to pose for milk mustache photos, and attendees will be able to visit one-on-one with MSU large animal veterinary students during hands-on activities with cows. From making and eating a cheese “bug” to touching and smelling the feeds that cows eat, there will be a variety of take-home projects, activities and educational stations.

Two areas, a cow cutout craft and coloring station and a Milker Training School station, will be sponsored and manned by MMPA employees and Dairy Communicators.

Attendees will have numerous chances to interact with real Michigan dairy farmers at the various displays and educational stations and can ask questions about how food gets from the farm to their tables.

New on display this year will be a robotic milking unit. Great Dairy Adventure attendees will have a chance to see and ask questions about the latest milking technology available; robotic milkers are currently being used by nearly 30 dairy farms in Michigan.

“Our hope is that event attendees leave the event with a better understanding of the importance of including dairy products as part of a balanced diet,” said Carla McLachlan, MSU event and program manager. “In addition to sharing information about the multi-step journey milk takes from the farm to our refrigerators, we will be putting a face on the ones who care for the cows 365 days a year to make sure we are producing and delivering a safe and wholesome product to consumers.”

Parents and people who work with children will receive nutrition education materials offering simple ideas for teaching kids about the importance of including three servings of dairy in their daily diets. They will also receive tips on adding physical activity to their daily routine to help develop stronger bones as part of a healthy lifestyle. Everyone is encouraged to bring a camera to capture memories in the making.

For more information about the Great Dairy Adventure contact Carla McLachlan at 517-432-5402.

Ice Cream, Cows and Fun, Oh My!Sixteenth annual Great Dairy Adventure scheduled for July 17 at MSU

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Get to know us... Rosebush Sale Barn, Inc. is a dairy cattle auction market located in Rosebush, Michigan, where we have over 10,000 clients. Our sales consist of 650-1000 head of opens, springers and cows, as we are one of the largest dairy sales in a three state area and the demand for good cattle is strong. We pride ourselves in providing the best in cattle auction ser-vices, which includes top sales management services on your farm or at our sales facility. We have been serving the dairymen’s needs for over 35 years and guarantee payment from a full bonded and licensed company. We handle any size of herds of cows or groups of heifers, whether we sell them privately, on your farm or through our established auction mar-ket. If there is a sale in your future and your life’s work is on the line, you need and deserve the best management team, look to Rosebush. Top prices, low expenses and high returns for dairymen are our priority!

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One down, three to go. MMPA’s Michigan State University (MSU) Food Systems

Fellowship Intern Ashley Cooley just completed her first year (of four) at the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine. Now, she’s spending her summer giving back to MMPA dairy farms.

From shadowing member representatives to attending inspector meetings and training seminars to assisting with other MMPA projects and education days, Ashley’s summer is all about learning through immersion.

Her primary focus is conducting research on proper udder prep during dry-off procedures and testing the effectiveness of repetitive training coupled with a detailed explanation of why each step in udder prep is important. Ashley’s research is based on 24 Michigan farms with varied capacity, SCC and udder prep protocols.

A mutually beneficial relationship, by the end of the summer, Ashley hopes to gain knowledge of dairy cooperatives and member services while contributing valuable feedback to MMPA on how to improve its member farms’ udder prep during dry-off periods.

“I applied for MMPA’s internship because I wanted the opportunity to participate in research that would make a difference in the dairy industry,” Ashley comments. “I felt that improving my knowledge of how to conduct research and increasing my understanding of the relationship between producers and co-ops, like MMPA, would prove invaluable in my future as a veterinarian.”

An Ohio-native, Ashley earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Findlay Ohio before moving north. Her interest in dairy stems from two summers of work and shadowing experience on a 3,000-cow dairy, Bridgewater Dairy, in her hometown of Montpelier. She enjoys the variety, challenge and collaborative nature of the dairy industry and hopes to remain connected to dairy throughout her

professional career. “What I like about working in the dairy industry is the fact that every farm is different and yet are all working toward the same goal of providing a safe and wholesome product,” she explains.

From her MMPA experience thus far, Ashley has noticed the cooperative advantage. “Caring, passionate member representatives offering a host of quality-inducing, efficiency-maximizing

services plus conscientious producers concerned with both the health and welfare of their animals equals the MMPA difference,” she explains.

Ashley plans to finish veterinary school at MSU and hopes to work for a mixed animal veterinary practice that combines her interest in both small animal and dairy medicine.

MSU Food Systems Fellowship Intern Ashley Cooley

Hastings Mutual has specialized in insuring farms since 1885. Plus, you receive a 10% farm policy discount with your MMPA membership!

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

Parlor Pak Endorsement:

• $20,000MilkSpoilage• $5,000ReproductiveMaterial• $50,000SuddenandAccidentalPollution• $50,000FarmBusinessIncomeandExtraExpense

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Contact your local Hastings Mutual

agent today!Ayres Insurance

(Southwest Michigan)www.theayres-group.com

269-651-1761

Clevenger Insurance Agency, Inc.(South Central/Eastern Michigan)

www.clevengerinsuranceagency.com517-368-5771

Liebler Agency, Inc.(Eastern Michigan/Thumb)

www.liebleragency.com810-346-2738

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

www.bkcinsurance.com231-627-4381

Insuring Your Farm’s Protection

18 July 2013

Eleven participants, two chair people and seven chaperones congregated

at MMPA’s Novi office June 17-18 for the 76th annual MMPA 4-H Tour. Ranging in dairy background and experience, the students spent two days learning about cooperatives, agricultural careers, milk marketing, milk testing, dairy processing, current dairy issues and 4-H dairy opportunities.

Along with listening to various MMPA departmental directors and MSU staff, students met with each MMPA department to learn more about the group’s function and role as well as the skills and training needed to succeed in each area.

“With so many employment opportunities in agriculture, we like to showcase the diversity of MMPA

employees to help students understand that dairy extends beyond the farm level,” says MMPA General Manager Clay Galarneau. “The 4-H Tour centers on dairy cooperatives, but we try to make the experience hands-on and relevant for students, highlighting ways they can get involved in the industry after high school and/or college.”

Participants not only listened to facts about MMPA and the dairy industry, they experienced parts of each firsthand.

Director of Member Services Dean Letter helped each student try on a typical farm-level dairy procedure giving each student the chance to run an IDEXX SNAP Test using either antibiotic positive or negative milk. Novi Lab Supervisor Patti Huttula helped participants conceptualize

MMPA-level milk testing with a tour of the lab’s equipment and visual examples of plated milk samples and water samples. Students also enjoyed touring Michigan Dairy in Livonia, especially watching a fresh batch of chocolate milk being pumped into jugs and carted down conveyor belts for delivery.

One of this year’s participants Blake Lulham, from Corunna, comments, “I would definitely recommend the tour to other students interested in dairy. I learned so much about the steps, tests and people needed to get milk from the farm to peoples’ tables. It’s a great way to meet new people and build friendships in the Michigan dairy industry.”

2013 MMPA 4-H Tour

4-H Tour participants, chaperones and staff pictured above include: front (left to right) Erica Dueling, Amanda Dueling, Melissa Elischer, Cassie Parks, Ashley Cooley, Allison Pung, Renee Russell, De Buell, Skylar Buell, Lisa Venema, Libby Venema, Lydia Rubingh and Kathy Heisler and back (left to right) Warren Rubingh, Zeke Breuninger, Blake Lulham, Jill Lulham, Kayle Jakus, Jennie Bromley, Heidi Bromley, Whitney James, Trisha Quince, Wendy Jakus and Courtney Heisler.


Photos:Top left: Blake Lulham and Courtney Heisler get hands-on dairy farm experience as they test a milk sample for antibiotics during the 4-H Tour’s hands-on lab presentation. Many producers use a similar test to screen their bulk tank for antibiotics before shipping.Top right: Ron Cherwalk, quality assurance manager at Michigan Dairy in Livonia, talks to students about the importance of milk quality from the farm level all the way to grocery stores.Middle far left: Participants wait for the results of their IDEXX SNAP Tests while listening to the on-farm services offered by MMPA member representatives.Middle left center: Always a tour highlight, students enjoyed asking questions throughout and after a tour of Michigan Dairy.Middle right center: Director of Member Services Dean Letter teaches the students to perform a SNAP Test to screen milk samples for antibiotics.Middle far right: Zeke Breuninger takes in the basics of milk marketing during a presentation led by MMPA General Manager Clay Galarneau.Bottom left: Lydia Rubingh, Skylar Buell and Kayle Jakus work together during a co-op team challenge, preparing to pitch their team’s cooperative idea to the group.

20 July 2013

Hundreds of youth and hundreds of dairy cows and their owners

from across the Great Lakes state will converge on the Michigan State University (MSU) Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education July 15 – 19 for the annual Michigan 4-H Dairy Days and 17th annual Michigan Dairy Expo.

Michigan Dairy Expo, the largest annual dairy event in the state, is a week-long event that combines youth activities with purebred dairy breed association youth and open show events. The mission of Michigan Dairy Expo is to encourage and promote youth involvement in dairy activities, showcase the Michigan dairy industry and provide continuing education

opportunities for the dairy industry in Michigan and neighboring states.

Michigan 4-H Dairy Days is the youth-centered portion of the Michigan Dairy Expo. 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.

On Monday, exhibitors will move in their cattle for the weeklong event and youth will compete in the 4-H dairy management contest. Tuesday activities include a day-long youth show beginning at 7:30 a.m. (showmanship contests and breed shows) and at 6 p.m. the fifth annual Michigan Dairy and

Livestock Expo Sale-abration auction, where champion animals and products

MSU to Host 4-H Dairy Days and 17th Annual Michigan Dairy Expo July 15-19


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will be auctioned off to raise money for scholarships and youth educational programming and activities.

Michigan 4-H dairy youth members will compete in the dairy cattle judging competition on Wednesday. In addition, the 16th annual Great Dairy Adventure consumer education day will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. This family-oriented and volunteer-operated educational event is a fun family outing and a popular field trip destination for many summer children’s programs. New on display at the Great Dairy Adventure this year will be a robotic milking unit. Attendees will have a chance to see and ask questions about the latest milking technology available and currently being used by nearly 30 dairy farms in Michigan.

Thursday events include the 4-H dairy quiz bowl, the Michigan Dairy Expo Celebration Picnic and Dairy Youth and 4-H Recognition Program and the Michigan Jersey Futurity and 27th annual Michigan Holstein Association Great Lakes State Futurity. The evening will conclude with an ice cream social.

Open and youth breed show activities begin Friday at 7:30 a.m. with showmanship classes. These will be followed by heifer and cow classes and the selection of the supreme champion heifer and cow in the youth and open shows.

All 4-H Dairy Days and Michigan Dairy Expo events take place at the MSU Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education located on the MSU campus on Farm Lane between Mt. Hope and Forest roads. There is no admission fee to attend, and parking is free.

For more information about 4-H Dairy Days and the Michigan Dairy Expo or to download a complete schedule of events, visit www.midairyyouth.ans.msu.edu or contact Carla McLachlan at 517-432-5402.

22 July 2013

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A dairy convert, MMPA John Dilland Fellowship Intern Cassie Parks is originally from Clinton, Mich. and

didn’t grow up on a dairy farm or in the agricultural realm at all. True, she had experience with a few beef cattle. But until her first year of college, engineering was Cassie’s career destination.

Then she switched her major to animal science, joined the Michigan State University (MSU) Dairy Club and the rest is history.

Graduating in May with a bachelor’s degree in animal science and an agribusiness management specialization, Cassie applied for the MMPA internship because of her past experience with the co-op. “I truly believe in the opportunities and value MMPA gives to the members. In my mind, MMPA is great, but it is really the people who make this such a successful and wonderful place,” she says.

The John Dilland Fellowship Internship is designed to expose college students to all aspects of MMPA. Cassie spends most of her time working in the Manufactured Product Sales Department, but also gets the chance to ride along with member representatives, work with finance and accounting, attend outreach events and tour MMPA plants. Her goal is to gain background on what happens to milk after it leaves MMPA member farms.

She comments, “I had no concept of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into the production of milk products,

sales and delivery. This is a wonderful opportunity, and I jump at the chance to learn something new every day.”

One of Cassie’s major takeaways to date is the importance of interdepartmental communication and cooperation in accomplishing the co-op’s mission: “to market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.” She elaborates, “Even in an office setting, teamwork is critical. My time at MMPA has shown me that the employees and members of this co-op are not only a team, but a family.”

Cassie plans to utilize the co-op and dairy product knowledge she gains this summer to better serve producers as she transitions into a dairy services role.

MMPA John Dilland Fellowship Intern Cassie Parks

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24 July 2013

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Fly population control is very important on dairy operations during the warm spring and summer months.

Minimizing disease transmission to livestock and humans and preventing product contamination are extra challenges during fly season.

MMPA Merchandise stocks two products members can purchase to use as tools in their fly management program: QuikStrike and Prozap LD-44Z.

QuikStrike

QuikStrike strips are a ready to use, self-contained product, designed to be placed in fly foraging areas. The active ingredient, Nithiazine, kills flies seconds after they feed on Quikstrike. The flies are attracted to the sugar base matrix and a strong fly pheromone attractant.

QuikStrike is effective only after flies ingest the active ingredient Nithiazine. Therefore, it needs to be placed in areas where flies actively feed. The best placement is 2-4 ft. above ground level in an area protected from children, animals, direct sunlight, wind and rain.

QuikStrike strips are effective for six to eight weeks and are helpful in controlling flies in calf raising areas, milking barns and feed storages. QuikStrike is available in a box containing 2 strips per package.

Stock#: 5503 Member price: $20.88/pkg.

Prozap LD-44Z

MMPA Merchandise stocks Prozap LD-44Z farm insect fogger. The active ingredients in Prozap LD-44Z, Pyrethrins and Piperonyl Butoxide, repel and kill a host of insects. Prozap LD-44Z contains no CFC’s and may be used in milkrooms and livestock housing areas, if used according to label directions. Prozap LD-44Z is available in a 20-oz. aerosol can.

Stock #: 5501 Member price: $10.81/can.

Fly Control


These are service personnel only. Order your Member Merchandise

supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB24 -Hour Medical Emergency

Hotline: 1-800-328-0026

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Ben Johnson4461 Cambridge Dr.

Port Huron, MI 48060810-824-0636

Jason Koerth7509 Aborcrest Dr.Portage, MI 49024

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Pat Mitchell7273 N. Rollin Hwy.Addison, MI 49220

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A & L Laboratories24 -Hour Medical Emergency

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P ayment 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

26 July 2013

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 contacting their MMPA Member Representative or 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.

Bulls

Registered 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.

One milking Shorthorn bull. One Guernsey bull. Two Jersey bulls.269-758-3268

Guernsey bull can be registered SilveradoXPieXTom Dees Clone Jackson Brothers. 989-673-3369.

Cows and Heifers

33 cows, 6 fresh in June, 6 due in July. For more information call 989-827-9614.

Equipment

Gehl Model 1265 Chopper with a three-row corn head, 7-ft. hay head, tandem axel. Good condition, always stored inside. $7,000 or best offer. Call 517-930-2699.

195 New Holland manure spreader, 425 bushel, 20-in. truck tires, $11,000. Good working condition. 810-300-8654. China, Mich. 48054.

Penta 3020 SD with 6-ft. flip up conveyor. Lavern Kurtz, 574-642-3468 ext. 3.

(4) 16.1 by 16.5 floatation tires on rims. 269-758-3268

Harvestore Hercules unloader, 7 ½ hp. motor. Phone 231-347-8005.

Gross Machine shop dump wagon 9’ x 17’ on 1600 single axle Knowles running gear, $13,000. 989-640-3371, Fowler, Mich.

John Deere 8630, 4wd, 20.8x38 Tires, PTO is currently out in tractor, $15,000 OBO. John Deere 4320 18.4x34, $9,000 OBO. John Deere 3970 Chopper, new knifes last year, 7 ½ hay and 2 row corn, $10,500. Call or text 989-274-1974.

John Deere 935 disc mower with impellers 11.5 foot and Hesston 5800 5x6 twine wrap round bailer. 989 673-3369.

Calumet 3750 top fill tanker spreader excellent condition. Knight 8024 slinger manure spreader, good condition. Asking $10,500 each. Call 616-886-0969.

Dairy Equipment

Surge misc. 2-in. and 3-in. pipe and fittings. 16 Delaval Mark 3 65 pound milk meters with quick attach. Surge Alamo 100 plus vacuum pump, 5-hp. 12 Delaval parlor feed stainless steel mangers. 989-255-6113.

Mueller 1,000 gal. bulk tank with compressor and tank washer, $3,800. 989-236-5482 or 989-763-3236.

800 gal. high performance Mueller bulk tank, agitator, two compressors, water cooled condenser, works well. 430 hydrastatic battery operated feed cart, stainless steel box, works well, $500 obo. 260-593-0472.

Wanted

A complete pipeline system. Abe Bontrager, 260-499-3318 ext. 9.

Good working head chute. 260-593-0472.

FreelinersCall 1-800-572-5824 ext. 202 to place your ad

or email to: [email protected]

28 July 2013

Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 224

Mail ads to: Classified Ads, Michigan Milk Messenger, PO BOX 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002. Or email to [email protected]. 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)

OPPERMAN GROOVING: 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.______________________________________

ClassifiedsCall 1-800-572-5824 ext. 202 or email to: [email protected]

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


MILk ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED

If 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 CONFIRMED

If 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 QUESTIONABLE

When 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 COUNT

If:

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 SHIPMENT

If:

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 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

30 July 2013

MARKET STATISTICSMideast Federal Order #33

(pounds)

Mideast Federal Order #33

COMPONENT PRICING INFORMATIONMideast Federal Order #33

NATIONAL TRENDS(million pounds)

This Month year Ago % Change

Total Class 1 Sales 539,206,769 511,568,958 +5.40


Total Class 3 Sales 479,660,761 561,213,301 -14.53


Total Production 1,568,270,346 1,594,105,055 -1.62

Class 1 Utilization 34.4% 32.1%

Current Month

Total Producers 6,140

Average Daily Production per Farm 8,239

Average Protein Test 3.05%

Average Butterfat Test 3.67%

Average Other Solids Test 5.75%

Average SCC Count (MMPA) 163,000

Protein Price/lb. $3.3597

Butterfat Price/lb. $1.7884

Other Solids Price/lb. $0.3887

Class III Price @ 3.5% $ 18.52

Prod. Price Diff/cwt. (Mich. Mkt.) $0.17

Uniform Price @ 3.5% $ 18.69

SCC Adjustment/cwt./1000 $0.00091

2013 2012 % Change Production California 3,726 3,744 -0.5

Wisconsin 2,366 2,339 +1.2

New York 1,177 1,153 +2.1

Idaho 1,175 1,172 +0.3

Pennsylvania 935 914 +2.3

Texas 840 847 -0.8

Minnesota 791 777 +1.8

Michigan 784 765 +2.5

New Mexico 714 722 -1.1

Washington 558 550 +1.5

Ohio 478 470 +1.7

Indiana 347 330 +5.2

* Total U.S. 16,525 16,384 +0.9

* U.S. Y-T-D 85,487 85,877 -0.5

* For 23 states

Market ReportFor Milk Marketed in May 2013

Monthly Avg

Cheese /lb 1.8274

Butter /lb 1.6483

Nonfat Dry Milk /lb 1.6374

Dry Whey /lb 0.5765

NASS Survey Prices


MMPA FIELD STAFF

NOVI (Headquarters)248-474-6672

800-572-5824General Manager

Clay Galarneau, ext. 200

Member Services Milk Sales/Dispatch Finance/Controller Dean Letter, ext. 213 Carl Rasch, ext. 244 Joseph M. Diglio, ext. 240Laboratory Supervisor Manufactured Product Sales Credit/Insurance Patti Huttula, ext. 219 Jim Dodson, ext. 229 Cheryl Schmandt, ext. 210Human Resources Member Relations/Public Affairs Data Processing Cindy Tilden, ext. 220 Sheila Burkhardt, ext. 208 Gregory Schulkey, ext. 237 Member Communications Laura Moser, ext. 296 Alex Schnabelrauch, ext. 211

MANUFACTURING PLANTS Constantine Ovid 269-435-2835 989-834-2221 Plant Manager Plant Manager/Plant Operations Dave Davis David Wittkop

Novi: 800-572-5824 (in MI) 800-233-2405 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mon-FriOvid: 989-834-2515 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. DailyConstantine: 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.LouisOffice ...................989-289-9219

Frank Brazeau .......................920-834-4059 Oconto, Wis. ......... mobile 906-250-0337

Ben Chapin ................................................... Big Rapids ............ mobile 989-289-0731

Preston Cole ...........................231-584-2587 Mancelona ............ mobile 989-289-9301

Lyndsay Earl................................................. Ludington ............. mobile 231-519-2455 Angelee Kirsch ............................................. Harbor Beach ....... mobile 231-414-4539

Violet Lombard ............................................ East Lansing, .....................248-520-3481

Deborah Navarre ......................................... Leroy ...................................248-520-3580

Lindsay Santure ........................................... St. Johns ................. mobile 989-488-8159

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

MMPA Staff

SOUTH AREA

Supervisor: Ed Zuchnik ............................. ColdwaterOffice ................269-967-7351

Krista Beeker ................................................ Howe, IN ............. mobile 269-986-6792

David Brady ...........................517-522-5965 Grass Lake............ mobile 517-937-9061

Emily Butcher ............................................... Middlebury, IN...... mobile 269-535-0822

Kendra Kissane ............................................ Grand Rapids ....... mobile 269-245-6632

Andrew Rupprecht ...................................... Clio ........................ mobile 269-986-6793

Elyse Martin ................................................. Eaton Rapids ......... mobile 810-701-6460

Ed Zuchnik ................................................... Three Rivers ......... mobile 269-967-7351

Merchandise—st. LouisSupervisor: Duane Farmer .989-681-2334 Fax .......................................989-681-3988 Toll Free..............................877-367-6455 Orders (Novi) ..800-572-5824 then dial 2

MASTITIS MANAGEMENT

Steven Lehman ......................989-875-3441 Ithaca ................... mobile 989-330-1638

Christy Dinsmoore ....................................... Fairgrove .............. mobile 989-528-9102

Monthly Avg

Cheese /lb 1.8274

Butter /lb 1.6483

Nonfat Dry Milk /lb 1.6374

Dry Whey /lb 0.5765

Other Services:Gary Best ...............................810-664-4984 Lapeer ................... mobile 586-484-9279 Bulk Tank Calibration

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

Michael Marvin ............................................ Marlette ..............................989-670-4864 Energy Auditor

Shared Values.Shared Vision.

Membership in Michigan Milk Producers Association

goes much farther than designating a place to market your

milk. When you join forces with MMPA you are aligning with a cooperative that

has your best interest in mind. MMPA works on your behalf on issues important to today’s

dairy farm families: youth education, leadership, policy issues and quality milk production.

Michigan Milk Producers Association. Member Owned. Member Driven.

www.mimilk.com 800.572.5824.

michigan milk messenger: july 2013

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