michigan milk messenger: october 2015

MESSENGERMichigan Milk T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F M I C H I G A N M I L K P R O D U C E R S A S S O C I AT I O N

VOL. 98 | ISSUE 4 | OCTOBER 2015

Shawn and Beth

VanDrie

2015 MMPAOutstandingYoung DairyCooperators

MESSENGER | OCTOBER 20152

Managing Editor ............................................... Sheila Burkhardt

Editor ..............................................................................Allison Stuby

Advertising Manager .....................................Nancy Muszynski

Circulation .................................................................................... 2,843

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Michigan Milk Messenger (USPS 345-320) is the official

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MESSENGER

12

16

Columns 4 MMPA Matters Moving Forward from a

Not So Sweet Year

6 Quality Watch What Do Your Culture Results Mean?

8 News & Views

10 Legislative Watch

October Features

12 On Cows and Community 2015 MMPA OYDCs

Shawn and Beth VanDrie

16 Much Ado About Poo MMPA Member Farms Exhibit

Innovation in Manure Management

18 Keeping Up on the Dairy 2015 MMPA OYDC Runners-up

Darren and Regina Coffey

Michigan Milk

OCTOBER 2015 | MESSENGER 3

18

Board of Directors

Officers

Ken Nobis, President

Mark Halbert, Vice President

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

Joe Diglio, General Manager/ Secretary

Josep Barenys, Assistant Treasurer

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA)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.

Departments28 Merchandise

29 Quality Premiums

30 Freeliners

32 Classifieds

33 Policies

34 Market Report

35 Staff

MESSENGER

Directors-At-LargeKen Nobis, St. Johns ...........................989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 201

Rodney Daniels, Whittemore ........................................................ 989-756-4935

Dan Javor, Hastings ..................................................................... 269-948-8345

Mark Halbert, Battle Creek ......................................................... 269-964-0511

James Reid, Jeddo ....................................................................... 810-327-6830

District Directors1. Hank Choate, Cement City ...................................................... 517-529-9032

2. Tim Hood, Paw Paw ................................................................ 269-657-5771

3. David Pyle, Zeeland ................................................................. 616-772-1512

4. Corby Werth, Alpena ............................................................... 989-464-5436

5. Brent Wilson, Carson City ........................................................ 989-584-3481

6. Tony Jandernoa, Fowler ........................................................... 989-593-2224

7. Eric Frahm, Frankenmuth ......................................................... 989-652-3552

8. Leonard Brown, Sandusky ........................................................ 810-648-4505

21 MMPA Butter Shines in World Dairy Expo Championship Dairy Product Contest

26 UDIM Works With You to Donate Milk Across the State


were selected as this year’s

MMPA Outstanding Young

Dairy Cooperators. Read

more about the VanDries

and their farm on page 12.

Cover Story

Moving Forward from a Not So Sweet YearBY KEN NOBIS, PRESIDENT

Another summer has managed to slip away as we move into October, the beginning of fiscal year 2016 for MMPA. One year ago, our members were still enjoying a record year for milk prices, but this year has not been so sweet.

One might consider this to be an opportunity for character building—that would be the positive acceptance of reality.

One year ago, we knew the export market was shrinking. China cut back on dairy purchases in early 2014. Russia had stopped importing dairy products from the European Union in response to sanctions resulting from Russia’s incursion into the Ukraine. According to data presented by the United States Dairy Export Council (USDEC), those two actions meant that 7.4 million tons (milk equivalent) of dairy products needed to find a new home. In the same time frame, milk production in the major dairy exporting countries increased by 5.6 million tons. While lower prices have caused an uptick in imports by countries like Mexico, Japan, and Egypt, it has not been nearly enough to counterbalance the declines and the increased production.

U.S. production increase is projected to be 1.3 percent greater for 2015 than 2014, which was up about 2.3 percent over 2013. Increases in the E.U. and New Zealand were much greater, about 5.5 percent in the E.U. and 10 percent in New Zealand. Because today’s dairy industry is global in nature, supply and demand issues around the world have a direct impact on dairy producers in the U.S.

With heavy dairy inventories in China, New Zealand and the E.U., the crystal ball gazers don’t see a decent price recovery for another year. The low might, hopefully, be in place; however, it will take time to work off the inventories. We have been experiencing three-year cycles consisting of a good year, a bad year and a breakeven year. For this pattern to continue, we will need to see cost reductions in 2016 to generate a breakeven scenario for many producers.

Bright spots may be hard to find in situations like this, but they do exist. It is encouraging to see seven straight months with year-over-year gains in whole milk consumption. This is especially gratifying since it follows a forty year decline in fluid consumption, led by declines in whole milk consumption. Butter consumption is up over 25 percent in the last five years, now that dairy fat is not considered a villain food but is instead seen as a healthy flavor enhancer. The proliferation of cooking shows, most of them promoting butter, has increased consumption. The announcement by McDonald’s Corporation that it is swapping liquid margarine for real butter in its English muffins, biscuits and bagels can only increase butter use. By the way, McDonald’s buys butter from Butterball Farms, and Butterball buys its butter from MMPA.

MMPA’s producer members haven’t been sitting on the sidelines watching the world go by during the past hectic year. We keep moving forward together, as shown by the impressive accomplishment that our co-op set a record low 176,000 somatic cell count for July. Our plants attained the Safe Quality Foods Level 3 with an excellent rating this summer. In my 20 plus years on the MMPA Board, I have never seen as much interest in our milk as I see today. It requires a team effort to produce, process and market a quality product. Having a world-class product makes it possible for MMPA to further our mission to “market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible,” even when it isn’t easy.

MMPA MATTERS

“Bright spots may

be hard to find in

situations like this,

but they do exist. It

is encouraging to see

seven straight months

with year-over-year

gains in whole milk

consumption.”

MESSENGER | October 20154

QUALITY WATCH


What Do Your Culture Results Mean? BY LYNDSAY EARL, MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE

You send cow samples to the lab to be tested for SCC and have cultures ran. You get the results back, and see the pluses and minuses next to SAU, SNA, SAG, Gram Negative. But do you know what these results mean? Culture results can be a valuable tool to help you make informed treatment decisions on your farm. Having a basic understanding of what your culture results mean may help make these decisions a little easier.

The MMPA Novi lab can test your cow samples for the following organisms: Staph Aureus, Strep NonAg, Strep Ag, and Gram negative bacteria.

Strep Ag (SAG) is a contagious mastitis pathogen. These bacteria can only survive in the udder, but can survive for short periods of time on common wash rags and in milking equipment, resultingin the spread of infection from cow to cow during milking. These bacteria respond well to antibiotic treatment, especially if treated at dry off, and should be re-cultured two to three weeks after treatment or at freshening to verify that the infection has been cleared. The best ways to control the spread of Strep Ag are to use separate towels to prep each cow and to get complete post dip coverage on all teats. Dry treating all cows will also keep this organism under control.

Strep Non-Ag (SNA) bacteria come primarily from the cow’s environment including bedding material, manure and fresh pens mud. These infections can be clinical with visible signs of infection including garget and swollen quarters, or subclinical which has no visible signs. The infections typically result in an elevated SCC. In most cases, these infections are eliminated by the cows immune but must be closely monitored to determine if the aid of antibiotics are needed. A clean housing environment and good udder prep practices are essential for controlling Strep Non-Ag.

Staph Aureus (SAU) is a contagious mastitis pathogen that is spread from infected cow to non-infected cows typically during milking by common wash rags, milker’s hands and milking equipment, but may also survive on the teat skin and in the environment. These infections can be difficult to treat and may continue from one lactation to the next, even with the use of dry cow treatment. Good udder prep and post-dipping practices are very important to control these contagious pathogens. Infected cows should be milked at the end of milking to avoid spreading the bacteria to uninfected cows, and purchased cows should be cultured prior to mixing them in with the rest of the herd. Culling may also be necessary to reduce the number or rid the herd of Staph Aureus. Fly control has also been shown to help reduce the spread of this bacteria from teat to teat, especially among heifers.

Coagulase Negative Staph (Staph SPP “C”) are non-contagious bacteria that are typically found on teat skin and in the cow’s environment in bedding and manure. Typically these infections are subclinical and result in a mild increase in SCC. Good post dip practices are important to controlling these bacteria, as well as dry cow treatments. Farms that have a high level of Staph SPP infections should re-evaluate their Post dip products and application practices. Clean bedding, alleyway’s, and holding areas are also important when controlling these infections.

Gram Negative infections include E. Coli and Klebsiella. These bacteria are commonly found in manure, bedding, water, and soil. These infections occur when the teats come in contact with a contaminated material and typically occur during the first two weeks prior to freshening through the first 60 days after calving. Milk from an infected quarter may be clinical or subclinical in mild cases, and although supportive therapy such as extra fluids and anti-inflammatory’s may be helpful, in severe cases, intermammary antibiotics are of limited success. In most cases, the cow’s immune system will fight off the infection on its own.

When culturing the milk on your farm, whether it be cow samples or bulk tank samples, it is helpful to have an understanding of what the culture results mean. If you have any questions about the culture results on your farm, contact your Member Representative for further explanation.

“Culture results can be

a valuable tool to help

you make informed

treatment decisions

on your farm. Having

a basic understanding

of what your culture

results mean may help

make these decisions

a little easier. ”

CWT Member Co-ops Capture Export Sales of 3.7 Million Pounds of Products in August

Cooperatives Working Together member cooperatives, operating in a very competitive world market, won 12 contracts to sell 3.673 million pounds of dairy products to customers in five countries. The 2.2 million pounds of American-type cheeses, 661,387 pounds of butter, and 828,938 pounds of whole milk powder will be shipped from August 2015 through January 2016.

These contracts bring the

year-to-date totals through

August to:

• 45.3 million pounds

of cheese

• 28.063 million pound

of butter

• 34.106 million pounds

of whole milk powder

In total, CWT-assisted transactions will move the equivalent of 1.299 billion pounds of milk on a milkfat basis to customers in 33 countries on five continents. These totals are adjusted for contract cancellations.

Developed by the National Milk

Producers Federation (NMPF),

CWT is a voluntary export

assistance program supported

by dairy farmers producing 70

percent of the nation’s milk.

By helping to move U.S. dairy

products into world markets,

CWT helps maintain and grow

U.S dairy farmers share of these

expanding markets which, in

turn, keeps dairy farmer milk

prices at reasonable levels.

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65 Anniversaryth

MMPA half page - rev 7-28-15.indd 1 7/28/2015 3:07:07 PM

NEWS & VIEWSNEWS & VIEWS


McDonald’s Transitions to Real Butter

Butter is truly in vogue. In early September, the natural

fat garnered an unexpected endorsement. Sources close to

McDonald’s report that once its franchises have used up

their supplies of liquid margarine, they will switch to

real butter.

McDonald’s iconic Egg McMuffins, along with its bagels and biscuits, will

be toasted in butter, and consumers will have more chances to buy them.

Beginning October 6, all 14,300 McDonald’s U.S. locations will end their

10:30 a.m. breakfast cut-off and serve either Egg McMuffins or biscuit

sandwiches, along with a few other breakfast items, all day. The fast-food

giant may inspire some of its competitors to feature butter as well. This

news is good for Michigan and great for MMPA members.

McDonald’s purchases butter from Butterball Farms,

a company headquartered in Grand Rapids,

Michigan that buys butter from MMPA.


Nominating Committee Accepting Applications for Board of DirectorsFour positions on the MMPA Board of Directors—two at-large and two district—are up for election in 2016. The two at-large terms will be voted on at the 2016 State Annual Meeting and are currently held by Ken Nobis and Dan Javor. In addition, the terms of District Directors Brent Wilson of District 5 and Leonard Brown of District 8 are up for election at the District Delegate meeting in February.

To be nominated for a position on the board of directors, each candidate must submit an application. The State Nominating Committee will evaluate applications and may interview candidates for the at-large positions. The District Nominating Committee will review applications for those interested in the District Board positions.

Any member interested in being nominated for the at-large or district positions should contact Nancy Muszynski at the Novi office at 248-474-6672, ext. 202 or [email protected] for an application form. Application forms for director positions must be submitted to the Novi office by November 15, 2015.

Michigan Milk Political Action Committee Challenge

Support the Michigan Milk Political Action Committee (MMPAC) and you could be supporting one of your favorite charities! MMPA will award the MMPA district with the highest percentage of members contributing to the district’s choice of one of five selected charity organizations or youth foundations. The winning district can select from the following organizations:

• Michigan 4-H Foundation

• Michigan FFA Foundation

• Michigan Dairy and Memorial Scholarship Foundation

• United Way

• Local charity with approval by MMPA board of directors

Contributions must be postmarked by November 5, 2015 to qualify for the MMPAC Challenge. The winning district will be announced at the Leaders’ Conference on Monday, November 23.

Upcoming Events

October 26-29 NMPF/NDB/UDIA

Joint Annual Meeting,

Orlando, Florida

November 23 MMPA Leaders’ Conference,

East Lansing

December Local Meetings Begin, Statewide

A&M University. Researchers estimated 150,418 employees worked on U.S. dairy farms in 2013, and 51 percent of them, or 76,968, were immigrants. It found the average hourly wage on dairy farms in 2013 was $11.54, 16 percent higher than in 2008. By comparison, the federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour.

The report concluded a total loss of immigrant labor would reduce the size of both the U.S. dairy herd and the nation’s milk production by nearly a quarter. More than 7,000 dairy farms would close, it added.

Through economic modeling, researchers estimated more than a third of the total economic damage from losing all immigrant labor on dairy farms would be from reduced farm milk sales. The rest would come from losses in employee compensation, reduced purchases by farm employees and lost sales to businesses that support dairy farms, such as feed and equipment dealers.

Likewise, researchers said, milk sales support many more jobs beyond the farm than on the farm. As a result, while a total loss of immigrant labor on dairy farms would mean 76,968 fewer people working on farms, it would also mean the loss of 131,240 jobs outside the farm.

Mulhern added that Washington’s failure to act on immigration reform is also preventing economic growth and job creation in other ways. “The lack of a reliable source of workers is causing farmers to second-guess decisions to expand,” he said. “That’s economic activity lost to both rural and urban communities — all because Washington won’t act on immigration reform.”

LEGISLATIVE WATCH


“This report reinforces the urgent need for Congress to address this issue,” said NMPF President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Mulhern. “Farms that rely on hired foreign workers need their current labor force as well as an effective program to ensure an adequate future workforce. And the way to do that is to enact comprehensive immigration reform.”

“The notion immigrants are taking these jobs away from American workers is simply not true,” added Randy Mooney, a dairy farmer from Rogersville, Missouri, and the chair of NMPF’s board. “Dairy farmers have tried desperately to get American workers to do these jobs with little success —despite an average wage well above the U.S. minimum wage.”

The report was produced for NMPF by Texas AgriLife Research at Texas

Half of all workers on U.S. dairy farms are immigrants, and the damage from losing those

workers would extend far beyond the farms. The loss of immigrant workers could cost the total U.S. economy more than $32 billion, according to a new report commissioned by the National Milk Producers Federation.

The report, which includes the results of a nationwide survey of farms, found one-third of all U.S. dairy farms employ foreign-born workers, and those farms produce nearly 80 percent of the nation’s milk.

It concluded a complete loss of immigrant labor could cause the loss of one-in-six dairy farms and cut U.S. economic output by $32.1 billion, resulting in 208,000 fewer jobs nationwide. Some 77,000 of the lost jobs would be on dairy farms.

Losing Immigrant Workers onDairy Farms Would Cost the Economy

» MORE THAN $32 BILLION «


MMPA Advisory Committee

District 1Art Riske, Hanover .............................................. 517-524-6015Clark Emmons, Fayette, OH................................ 419-452-6764Jeff Alexander, Hanover ...................................... 517-740-9981Perry Cisco, Hudson............................................ 517-404-7997Carlton Evans, Litchfield ...................................... 517-398-0629

District 2Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN ......................... 574-825-5198Donald Bever, Delton........................................... 269-660-0498Heather Wing, Bellevue ....................................... 517-543-5577Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN ............................ 574-825-2454Danny Ransler, Gobles........................................ 269-628-4218

District 3Burke Larsen, Scottville ....................................... 231-757-2090Bill Stakenas, Freesoil ......................................... 231-757-9340Gary Nelsen, Grant.............................................. 231-834-7610Tim Butler, Sand Lake ......................................... 616-636-8567Nico Eadie, Conklin ............................................. 616-550-4041

District 4Dave Folkersma, Rudyard ................................... 906-478-3023Russ Tolan, Ossineke .......................................... 989-471-2993Ron Lucas, Posen ............................................... 989-379-4694Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth ................................... 231-588-6084Jeremy Werth, Herron ......................................... 989-464-4022

District 5Tom Jeppesen, Stanton ....................................... 989-762-5399Bruce Benthem, McBain ...................................... 231-825-8182Amy Martin, Leroy ............................................... 231-388-0496Mike Rasmussen, Edmore .................................. 989-762-5380Bill Jernstadt, Big Rapids..................................... 231-796-4650

District 6Kris Wardin, St. Johns ......................................... 989-640-9420Aaron Gasper, Lowell .......................................... 616-897-2747Steve Thelen, Fowler ........................................... 989-640-1075David Reed, Owosso ........................................... 989-723-2023Jamie Meyer, Ionia ............................................. 989-640-3372

District 7Eric Bergdolt, Vassar ........................................... 989-652-6500Steve Foley, Millington ......................................... 989-871-4028Rod Fowler, Chesaning ....................................... 989-845-6131John Bennett, Prescott ........................................ 989-345-4264Scott Kleinhardt, Clare......................................... 989-386-8037

District 8Mike Bender, Croswell ......................................... 810-679-4782Scott Lamb, Jeddo............................................... 810-404-8003Mike Noll, Croswell .............................................. 810-404-4071Jeremy Sharrard, Peck ........................................ 810-404-5076Dale Phillips, Marlette .......................................... 989-635-7917

At-LargeMark Crandall, Battle Creek ................................ 269-660-2229Tom Wing, Bellevue ............................................. 269-660-0498Bill Blumerich, Berlin............................................ 810-395-2926Chuck White, Fowlerville ..................................... 517-521-3564

Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming.

In light of the potential for confusion and inconsistent application of the regulation following the court’s ruling, NMPF said in a letter to the EPA and the Army that the government should suspend enforcement of the WOTUS nationwide.

“The EPA implementation schedule for the Clean Water Rule now treats dairy farmers differently nationwide, and clearly falls short of the EPA’s goals of ‘greater clarity, consistency, and predictability when making jurisdictional determinations,’” NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern said in the letter. “Therefore, we ask EPA and the Corp of Engineers use their enforcement discretion and cease application of the recent WOTUS rule in all 50 states, until such time as it can be evenly applied in every state.”

NMPF submitted comments on the proposed rule to the EPA and Corps of Engineers in November 2014, outlining its concerns with the lack of clarity and

NMPF Asks EPA,Army Corps to Suspend National Enforcement of New Water RegulationPending Resolutionof Court CasesThe National Milk Producers Federation urged the Obama Administration to hold off on the national enforcement of the new Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) regulation, in response to a court decision suspending the regulation in some states, but not others.

On August 27, the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota halted implementation of the water regulation, granting a temporary injunction in favor of 13 states that brought suit in North Dakota against the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Army Corps of Engineers. The EPA said after the court ruling it would not implement the rule in the 13 states part of the suit: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho,

certainty for dairy farmers should the rule proceed. The final rule “left many of our concerns unresolved,” NMPF wrote, although the organization had been hoping to work with EPA to address those concerns going forward.

“The opinion last Thursday by Judge Ralph Erickson brought forth many of the same concerns we relayed in our comments last November and should be taken seriously,” NMPF wrote.

NMPF’s letter said the organization and its members “are committed to protecting U.S. waterways through voluntary efforts, as well as through regulatory compliance with the Clean Water Act (CWA). Clean water is central to healthy ecosystems, secure water supplies for human and animal consumption, and to the production of milk and other dairy products. We are committed to working with the EPA and COE to find effective ways to achieve these important goals.”

Several other lawsuits against the EPA, from other states and also from farm and business groups, are still pending.


BY ALLISON STUBY

When it comes to the dairy lifestyle, Beth VanDrie is

all in. She puts her cows and calves above everything

else, she’s raced 20 minutes away to help a neighbor with

a difficult calving and she works 12 hour days with no

complaint. A multitasker with manure on her boots, Beth

stays motivated with her love of cows and community.

Her dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed.

Beth and her husband, Shawn, were recently named the 2015 MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators (OYDC). Beth is part owner of Rudvan Family Farms in Lake City, Michigan, working alongside her father

and brother to undergo an expansion of their operation while keeping up with their 310-cow herd.

Cow Comfort Central

It’s easy to see Rudvan Family Farms succeeds with happy, healthy cows. “We utilize knowledge from professionals and technology to create the most favorable environment for our cows to thrive. We really care about animal welfare and take pride in cow care,” Beth affirms. “I want to be able to bring people here and be proud of what we do.”

“Providing excellent animal care is just common sense to me, as I’m sure it is for many other dairy farmers. When the FARM program came out, we knew we already met the standards and got started right away. We’ve been in the FARM program so long, we already need to re-enroll,” Beth laughs.

While the FARM program requires all disbudding must be done prior to eight weeks of age, Beth opts to do the procedure almost immediately after birth to minimize pain for the calf. They disbud their calves when feeding the first ration of colostrum, one to two hours after birth. The calves can then return to their next feeding without trouble.


“I’m very picky when hiring someone new

because I want to build a great team on our

farm and I want my employees to be invested

in the work they do.”

BY ALLISON STUBY

Finding good labor is always a challenge, yet Beth stays determined to build a positive team. “We like people who think like us,” Beth admits. “I’m very picky when hiring someone new because I want to build a great team on our farm and I want my employees to be invested in the work they do.”

When she bought into the farm in 2009, they only had three employees. Now she manages a team of eight and spearheaded initiatives to increase employee engagement and retention. The farm offers an incentive program for clean filters and cash bonuses for low somatic cell counts. Further, all of the employees on the farm are sent to the MMPA Milker Training School to ensure their high standard of cow care is upheld.

Caring for the Community For the VanDries, taking pride in caring for their cows goes hand in hand with caring for the community.

“We are located in a unique

area with good neighbors

and a strong support system.

I enjoy helping the community

when I can,” Beth asserts.

While Beth has labored on the farm since she was 13, Shawn was pulled into the lifestyle after marrying Beth three years ago. He lends a hand when needed but also works off the farm as a welder. “I love the family aspect to farm life,” Shawn asserts. “I love being part of a family business and seeing how Beth and her family care for each other and for their cows.”

Family is clearly an important part of running their dairy. Beth and her brother are the third generation operating RudVan Family Farms, with no signs of slowing down. The VanDries have one daughter, Evelyn, and are excited to raise the family in their community.



of Rudvan Family FarmsEvart Local, District 5

Children: Evelyn (1)

Herd Size: 280 milking, 310 total

Acres farmed: 1,350

Crops grown: corn, alfalfa and grass hay

Milking regime: three-a-day in a double eight herringbone parlor

Sustainable practices: reclaimed plate cooler water, variable rate fertilizer application, regularly soil sample fields, variable rate transfer pump and vacuum pump, manure handling to retain nutrients and separate solids, and strip till corn

Breeding program: AI using daily chalk tail heats

Education: Shawn and Beth both graduated from Lake City High School. Beth also graduated from the two-year dairy management program at Michigan State University in 2008.

Certifications/Training: MMPA Milker Training School, MMPA/Land O’Lakes Calf Care School, FARM Certified, MMPA Energy Audit, MAEAP Verified in Livestock and Cropping Operations, working toward MAEAP Homestead verification.

Ag, Dairy and Community involvement: Shawn and Beth are involved with the Farm Bureau Young Farmer program. They hosted a farm tour and Beth has presented for a local school. Beth gives frequent presentations to local churches and small groups about her time living in Afghanistan and working for a non-governmental organization, World Advocates.

And that community doesn’t end at the Missaukee County line or even the United States border. Before taking ownership of the farm, Beth backpacked in Thailand and lived in Afghanistan while working for a non-governmental organization to aid women and children in rural villages. Today, she uses knowledge gained through those experiences to speak at churches and small groups in her local community.

Looking Ahead

The VanDries are in the midst of an expansion plan and hope to continue their commitment to caring for their cows and community. Last year, they built a new 240 cow barn and there are plans to install a mirror barn parallel to it on the property.

The next part of the expansion is to include activity monitors for the cows,

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build a transition barn and a bedded maternity pack barn. They are also considering upgrading the parlor with robots.

“We’re expanding at the same time as we’re changing hands,” Beth said.

“It’s difficult assuming ownership when also growing, but how else would you move forward if you didn’t do it?”

Grounded in their love of cows and community, Shawn and Beth VanDrie are ready to take charge on the farm and as they serve as the 2015 MMPA OYDCs.

RUDVAN FAMILY FARMS PLACES A HIGH

IMPORTANCE ON THE WELFARE OF THEIR

ANIMALS. PICTURED (TOP) BETH PLAYS AN

ACTIVE ROLE IN COW CARE BY MONITORING

THE HEALTH OF ONE COW BY TAKING HER

TEMPERATURE AND (BOTTOM) MAINTAINING

RECORDS ON THE HERD’S HEALTH.



Much Ado About Poo

MMPA MEMBER FARMS EXHIBIT

INNOVATIONIN MANURE MANAGEMENT

Dairy farmers are cooking up something new—with their cow’s poo. Unpleasant to the nose,

but a resource rich in crop nutrients, producers are seeking innovative methods to process manure and protect the environment. Eager to spread the word, Michigan State University Extension and the Clinton County Conservation District hosted Michigan Innovations in Agriculture’s 2015 tour to bring farmers in contact with new technologies and innovative practices.

The What’s New With Poo tour trekked across mid-Michigan on August 18 to four innovative dairy farms. The four MMPA member farms—Double Eagle Dairy, Nobis Dairy, Dutch Meadow Farms and Vanderploeg Holsteins—welcomed fellow livestock farmers to their operations to showcase their practices.

“There are innovative practices being used locally and it’s important for all livestock farmers to see firsthand the practices being used by other farmers and to start thinking about what practices they could utilize on their operation to make better use of manure nutrients and help protect the environment. Each of these farms is an indication of farmers trying to make their farm more sustainable,” MSU Extension Senior Educator Jerry May acknowledges.


The What’s New With Poo tour trekked across mid-Michigan

on August 18 to four innovative dairy farms. The four

MMPA member farms—Double Eagle Dairy, Nobis Dairy,

Dutch Meadow Farms and Vanderploeg Holsteins—

welcomed fellow livestock farmers to their operations to

showcase their practices.

A. A TRUCK EQUIPPED WITH A VACUUM DUMPS MANURE COLLECTED FROM THE BARNS INTO THE MANURE PROCESSING CENTER AT DOUBLE EAGLE DAIRY.

B. THE MANURE AND ADDED WATER IS MOVED ACROSS A CHANNEL AND MOVED INTO THE SYSTEM’S SAND SEPARATORS AND WASHERS.

C. THE LIQUID MANURE REMAINING AFTER SAND IS SEPARATED IS MOVED THROUGH PRESSES AND FILTERS TO SEPARATE OUT THE MANURE SOLIDS. A PARTICIPANT ON THE WHAT’S NEW WITH POO TOUR OBSERVES THE PROCESS.

D. DOUBLE EAGLE DAIRY IS STILL COMPLETING THE MANURE PROCESSING CENTER WHICH WILL EVENTUALLY INCLUDE A REVERSE OSMOSIS SYSTEM TO GENERATE

NEARLY CLEAN WATER FOR IRRIGATION.

A


Innovation at Double Eagle Dairy

Nestled in the center of the Lower Peninsula, in a town aptly named Middleton, Double Eagle Dairy touts a 3,500 cow dairy and a 72 stall rotary parlor. After undergoing an expansion in 2005, the operation is now in the process of completing a sand separation and manure processing center. The system maximizes sand recycling, separates manure solids and nutrient components and minimizes manure application costs. And all the while, this newly implemented system is reducing environmental risk.

With a large herd and lactating cows producing around 150 pounds of manure per cow per day, there’s no shortage of manure at Double Eagle Dairy. Approximately every 40 minutes, a truck equipped with a vacuum collects manure and brings it to be processed by the system. First, the manure is moved across a channel by two augers allowing the sand to settle out and move into the center’s sand separator and washers. Once the sand is cleaned, it is ready to be recycled back into the cow’s freestalls.

The remaining liquid manure is moved through a series of presses and filters designed to separate out the larger manure solids. These separated solids are conveyed to a stacking slab behind

the processing center where they are stored until they can be land applied. During the tour in mid-August, the rest of the processing center was still under construction. Once the center is complete, chemical polymers, fine screen filters and a reverse osmosis system will remove the remaining solid particles and nutrients resulting in nearly clean water for irrigation.

Separating manure constituents allows dairy farms to reap multiple benefits from a resource they are already managing. The system allows for farm expansion, environmental protection, monetary savings, optimized reuse of nutrients and water recovery.

Advancements Abound

The Wellers at Double Eagle Dairy aren’t the only ones maximizing their manure. A few miles south at Dutch Meadows Dairy, Tony Jandernoa is working to incorporate cover crops into a cropping system with manure as the main source of nutrients.

Another farm, Vanderploeg Holsteins, processes their manure by first separating liquids and solids. Once the solids are isolated, they are moved through two drums and then stored in a hoop structure and later recycle back as bedding. And Nobis Dairy has built up an array of sustainable

practices including the implementation of harvestable buffers. Around the property, over 60 acres of harvestable grass buffers have been established along the ditches that traverse the farm. These buffers help retain nutrients, control erosion and protect surface water all while providing a feed resource for the farm’s dairy herd.

“We’re fortunate in the Gratiot county and Clinton county areas to have these four farms currently using rather unique practices. When we can show farmers what others are doing, we can get them to start thinking about what they can do on their farm. Every farm will be somewhat different, but there is a solution for everyone.”

______________________

MICHIGAN INNOVATIONS IN AGRICULTURE

IS A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE

CLINTON AND GRATIOT COUNTY MSU

EXTENSION OFFICES AND THE CLINTON

COUNTY CONSERVATION DISTRICT.

MICHIGAN INNOVATIONS IN AGRICULTURE

IS INTENDED TO BE A RESOURCE OF

TIMELY INFORMATION FOR FARMERS.

EXTENSIVE EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION

ABOUT THE WHAT’S NEW WITH POO

TOUR IS AVAILABLE ON THEIR WEBSITE:

MSUE.ANR.MSU.EDU/PROGRAM/

INFO/MICHIGAN_INNOVATIONS_

IN_AGRICULTURE.


B C D

Driving through the beautiful

countryside of West Michigan,

it’s no wonder the Coffey family

named their centennial farm

Rolling Acres Dairy. Just 20 miles

from Lake Michigan, the farm is

nestled on rolling hills and run by

a strong family that prides itself

on producing quality milk.

Rolling Acres Dairy is home to Darren and Regina Coffey, 2015 OYDC Runners-Up, who farm with Darren’s father and three brothers in Allegan, Michigan.

Keeping BusyThe farm was founded in 1912 and Darren is part of the fifth generation running the farm. After a stint at an auto mechanic shop, Darren decided to return to the dairy full time ten years ago. And he wouldn’t have it any other way. “I can’t imagine still working in the shop. I would go stir crazy doing the same thing every day,” he admits. “The best part about dairy is the variety. Every day is different.”

“He doesn’t like to be away from the farm. He gets jittery if he’s not keeping busy and working hard,” Regina laughs.

“I don’t like to take time off. I just love farming,” he adds.

Darren has his hands in myriad functions on the dairy, but he mainly focuses on cropping, mechanical work and helping manage feed operations. He also keeps an eye on how the cows are doing every day and the welfare of the family’s herd.

With all the work that needs to be done on the farm, the Coffeys hire outside help, but that’s one thing easier said than done. “Finding good, reliable labor is always a challenge,” Darren admits. “We have 11 employees, most of whom are from two families that have worked with us for around 15 years. But besides them, we can’t seem to find as many workers as we desire.”

Keeping Upon the Dairy

2015 MMPA OYDC RUNNERS UPDARREN AND REGINA COFFEY

BY ALLISON STUBY

The labor shortage plays an important role as the Coffeys plan expansion. They built a new barn this summer and intend to increase their herd to 1,000 cows and add a new rotary parlor. “We are thinking about adding a rotary parlor to reduce labor needs and allow for more automation. Then we can milk more cows and save money in the long run,” Darren said.

Keeping Records

With Darren out in the fields and in the shop, the farm office is Regina’s domain. She took over farm finances in 2009 and now manages a wide portfolio of activities integral to the dairy’s operations. Regina takes pride in managing the office, payroll, finances and extensive records of the farm. She even has a role in manure management.

“I enjoy managing the money on the farm and using our resources to watch the farm grow,” Regina says. “It isn’t


possible to plan an expansion without proper budgeting and record keeping.”

Through technology, the Coffeys use information to continually improve their milk. “It’s great to be able to check the information MMPA provides online about our milk quality,” Regina adds. “We check the numbers often and are able to correct any problems and produce better milk when we stay informed.”

The Coffeys also use technology to monitor manure application, soil samples and field records. They automatically transmit data to their computer about each cow during milking.

Regina draws upon the information to keep the Rolling Acres Dairy team knowledgeable and prepared. “It can be difficult to keep everyone informed, but it’s important to keep all the brothers and Darren’s father in the know,” she admits. When it comes down to it, they know decision making and producing quality milk is dependent on proper planning.

Keeping it in the FamilyLike many other Michigan dairy farms, Rolling Acres Dairy is family owned and operated. But Darren and Regina truly take the idea to heart. Darren is one of six children. His brothers labor alongside him on their dairy and one of his sisters now owns her own dairy farm. Their four daughters—Olivia, Emilie, Annie and Allie—are part of the sixth generation growing up on the land.

While Darren was born and raised on the farm, Regina, a now reformed “city girl,” is from Ohio but decided to settle down on the farm with Darren. “I love living out here, there is a lot to learn if you didn’t grow up on a farm, but I enjoy the lifestyle and think it’s worth the hard work,” Regina admits.

Alongside her hardworking husband in the rolling hills of West Michigan, it’s easy to see Regina fits right in.

Darren and Regina Coffey

OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT: DARREN WORKS IN THE FARM’S SHOP CONTINUALLY MAINTAINING THE BUSINESS’ VARIOUS TRACTORS AND TRUCKS.

OPPOSITE PAGE, RIGHT: REGINA ENJOYS WORKING IN THE FARM OFFICE, MAINTAINING RECORDS AND MANAGING FINANCES.

of Rolling Acres DairyWest Michigan Local, District 3

Children: Olivia (13), Emilie (11), Annie (9) and Allie (9)

Herd Size: 830 milking, 1,400 total

Acres farmed: 1,600

Crops grown: corn, alfalfa and wheat

Milking regime: twice-a-day in a double 16 parallel parlor

Sustainable practices: reclaimed plate cooler water,

fertilizer application

Breeding program: AI, bull breed heifers

Certifications/Training: FARM Certified, MMPA Milker Training School

Education: Darren attended school in Hopkins, Michigan and

graduated from a homeschool program in 1996. Regina graduated

from Cardington-Lincoln High School in Cardington, Ohio.

Ag, Dairy and Community involvement: Darren just finished his

8th year on the Allegan County Farm Bureau board of directors and

Regina helps plan the Farm Bureau County Annual every year. Regina

is also president of the local school’s PTA and a Girl Scouts Leader. In

2014, Regina won the Hopkins Volunteer of the Year award.


The sooner heifers enter the milking herd, the sooner you can get a return on investment. ADM’s LegenDairy Calf and Heifer Program incorporates proven technologies with a precise balance of nutrients to enable development of heif-ers capable of reaching their genetic potential sooner and more efficiently.

ADM Alliance Nutrition, Inc., Quincy, IL

www.admani.com • 866-666-7626

Put LegenDairy™ fuel in her tank to fill yours.

Logos are © of ADM Alliance Nutrition, Inc., Quincy, IL 62305-3115 USAwww.admani.com • 866-666-7626

For art questions: call Tracie Hall at 217-231-2239 or [email protected]

662 355

Pantone Color Swatches Typeface/Font

Berthold Akzidenz Grotesk Medium ExtendedADM provides the expertise and program innovation to accommodate your specific calf and heifer development needs.

For more information on the LegenDairy Calf & Heifer Program contact Bill Earley—ADM Dairy Product Portfolio Manager at 800-777-7692, ext. 5, or email [email protected]

Scan to visit our online

Dealer Locator.


MMPA Butter Shinesin World Dairy Expo Championship Dairy Product Contest

Michigan Milk Producers Association was recently

awarded top honors from the World Dairy Expo

Championship Dairy Product Contest, winning six titles

in three categories: salted butter, unsalted butter,

and flavored butter.

“The combination of our members’ exceptional

quality milk with a dedication to excellence

from our plant employees’ has once again been

recognized at the World Dairy Expo,” MMPA

General Manager Joe Diglio stated. “MMPA

received awards for the butter produced in

both our manufacturing facilities, an honor that

solidifies the superior quality of our products.”

MMPA’s Constantine Plant swept the unsalted butter category, winning first, second and third place. Constantine also captured second place in the salted butter competition. The Ovid plant produced the second and third place entries in this year’s flavored butter competition. In addition to butter, MMPA’s plants manufacture nonfat dry milk (NFDM), condensed skim milk, cream and whole milk powder.

The World Dairy Expo Championship Dairy Product Contest is the only North American judging contest which encompasses all dairy products. The contest received over one thousand entries in 71 product classes including cheese, butter, fluid milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, ice cream, sour cream, sherbet, cultured milk, sour cream dips, whipping cream, dried whey and creative/innovative products from throughout the United States. MMPA has competed in the nationwide contest for five years.

A contest auction of all first place entries took place during the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin. As a result of this contest, the Wisconsin Dairy Products Association (WDPA) annually funds two scholarships for students preparing for careers in the dairy industry. WDPA also funds a culinary arts scholarship and donates to the National Collegiate Judging Contest which trains college students the art of evaluating dairy products.

EMPLOYEES AT MMPA’S OVID MANUFACTURING PLANT PACKAGE BUTTER PRODUCED IN THE FACILITIES’ BUTTER CHURN. OVID WON TWO AWARDS IN THE 2015 CHAMPIONSHIP DAIRY PRODUCT CONTEST FLAVORED BUTTER COMPETITION.

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MMPA Ag Wear

L500

K500

PC90H

8900

Please Note: All clothing will have an MMPA logo embroidered on it.

PC90H Pullover Hooded Sweatshirt9-ounce, 50/50 cotton/poly fleeceDyed-to-match drawcord (Ash and Athletic Heather have white drawcord)Adult Sizes: S-4XL Colors: White, Ash, Athletic Heather, Gold, Orange, Dark Chocolate Brown, Red, Cardinal, Maroon, Pale Pink, Purple, Royal, Navy, Safety Green, Kelly, Dark Green, Black. $27.008900 Summit JacketWindproof/water resistant heavyweight nylon shell lined with super heavyweight anti-pilling Panda Fleece. Also features contrasting color on front and back panel plus two front pockets with zippers and one inner right chest pocket with zipper. Elastic waist-band, Velcro cuff closure, and a hood concealed in the collar.Sizes: S-3XL (available in all colors)4XL – 6XL, LT – 6XLT (available in * colors)Colors: Yellow*, Black*, Imperial Blue*, Red*, Charcoal*, Maroon, Olive, Khaki*, Forest Green* Price: $59.00

K500 Silk Touch Sport ShirtAn enduring favorite, this comfortable classic sport shirt is anything but ordinary. Superior wrinkle and shrink resistance.5-ounce, 65/35 poly/cotton piqueFlat knit collar and cuffsMetal buttons with dyed-to-match plastic rimsDouble-needle armhole seams and hemSide ventsSizes: XS-6XL (available in all colors)Colors: White*, Light Pink, Tropical Pink, Hibiscus, Red*, Burgundy*, Maroon, Banana*, Gold, Texas Orange, Orange, Light Stone, Stone*, Coffee Bean, Light Blue*, Ultramarine Blue, Maui Blue, Mediterranean Blue, Royal*, Navy*, Purple, Eggplant, Lime, Mint Green, Kelly Green, Court Green, Clover Green, Dark Green*, Bark, Steel Gray, Cool Gray*, Black*.LT-4XLT (available in *colors)

Price: $18.50 L500 Ladies Silk Touch Sport ShirtSizes: XS-6XL (available in all colors) Price: $18.50

MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2015 MMPA AG WEAR22

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JST73

L705

S608

JST73 Hooded Raglan JacketA hit on and off the field, these jackets are comfortable, stylish and quiet. These favorites have sporty hoods and raglan sleeves. They also offer an unrestrictive fit and lightweight weather protection.100% polyester shellJersey lining with mesh insets at gussets for added breathability, Side pockets, Articulated elbows for greater mobility, Half elastic, half self-fabric cuffs for comfortDrawcord hem with toggle, Drawcord hood with togglesSizes: XS-6XLColors: True Red, Maroon, Forest Green, True Royal, True Navy, Black Price: $31.00

J705 Textured Soft Shell JacketPerfect for everyday wear. Super soft and flexible, these jackets deliver pure comfort as well as water and wind protection. The raglan silhouette gives you optimum range of motion, while the angled zippered chest pocket adds visual appeal. 1000MM waterproof rating, 1000G/M2 breathability ratingStorm flap with chin guard, Ergonomic zipper pullsZippered chest pocket, Front zippered pocketsSpandex-trimmed cuffs, Open hem with drawcord and toggles for adjustabilitySizes: XS-4XL Colors: Black, Insignia Blue, Café Brown, Stone

Price: $56.00

L705 Ladies Textured Soft Shell JacketGently contoured silhouette, Princess seamsOpen hemLadies Sizes: XS-4XL Price: $56.00

S608 Easy Care ShirtsThese comfortable wash-and-wear shirts are indispen-sible for the workday. Wrinkle resistant. 4.5 ounce, 55/45 cotton/poly, Button down collar, Dyed-to-match buttons, Patch pocket, Box back pleatSizes: XS-6XL (available in all colors)Colors: White*, Light Pink, Tropical Pink, Hibiscus, Red*, Burgundy*, Yellow, Gold, Athletic Gold, Texas Orange, Light Stone*, Stone*, Coffee Bean, Light Blue*, Maui Blue, Ultramarine Blue, Mediterranean Blue*, Royal*, Navy*, Classic Navy, Purple, Eggplant, Court Green, Clover Green, Dark Green*, Steel Gray, Black*.LT-4XLT (available in *colors):

Price: $24.30

L608 Ladies Easy Care ShirtsSizes: XS-6XL (available in all colors) Price: $24.30

J705


MMPA AG WEAR OCTOBER 2015 | MESSENGER 23

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J763

J355

J763H


J763H Duck Cloth Hooded Work JacketTough enough to do the job, this work jacket layers easily over shirts and jackets so it’s great for mild or harsh weather. 12-ounce, 100% cotton duck cloth, 6-ounce polyfill nylon lining for added warmth. Hood with dyed-to-match drawcord, Rib knit cuffs and waistbandFront hand warmer pocketsColors: Duck Brown, Navy, BlackSizes: XS-6XL Price: $63.00

J763 Duck Cloth Work JacketA workwear staple, this jacket has triple-needle stitching at the shoulders and armholes so it will last job after job.12-ounce, 100% cotton duck cloth, 6-ounce polyfill nylon lining for added warmth, Corduroy collar, Bi-swing backZippered chest pocket, Adjustable 2-snap sleeves, Front slash pocketsAdjustable button waist tabsColors: Black, Duck Brown, NavySizes: XS-6XL Price: $60.00

J355 Challenger VestThe new versatile Challenger vest has spandex-trimmed armholes and hem for long-wearing durability.Hidden zippered chest pocket, Double-needle stitching throughoutOpen hemColors: Goldenrod, True Red, True Royal, True Navy, True Hunter, Steel Gray, True Black.Sizes: XS-4XL Price: $41.00

K431 Cool Mesh Sport ShirtSoft, garment washed sports shirt with breathable mesh weave. 6.3-ounce, 100% ring spun combed cotton, double needed stitch-ing throughout, flat knit collar, 3-button placket with horn-tone buttons. Features tipping stripe trim. Adult sizes XS-6XL Colors: Red/Ivory/Khaki, Banana/Ivory/Navy, Blueberry/Ivory/Navy, Oxford Heather/Ivory/Black, White/Khaki/Navy, Royal/Khaki/Navy, Burgundy/Khaki/Navy, Stone Heather/Ivory/Black, Cypress/Navy/Khaki, Navy/Ivory/Khaki, Black/Ivory/Khaki. Price: $28.00 L431 Ladies Cool Mesh Sport ShirtV-neck Johnny collarSizes: XS-4XL Price: $28.00

L431K431

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MMPA Ag Wear Order Form

Ship To:

Name:

Street Address:

City: State: Zip:

Phone:

Style/Code# Description Color Size Total Price Total Qty. Each Amount

Merchandise Subtotal6% Sales Tax

Add S&H ChargesTotal Order

Use size chart to determine your correct size. Specify the quantity by size. Size ChartS M L XL 2X 3X 4X34-36 38-40 42-44 46-48 50-52 54 56

Please read size chart carefully. Since garments are decorated, returns or exchanges will only be accepted with prior approval.

Ordering Information:Please complete all necessary information. Indicate sizes where re-quired. Costs can be deducted from producer’s milk check. Money orders and checks are also accepted. Do not mail cash. Orders must be sent to the Novi Office. Allow 3-4 weeks for delivery (all items shipped USPS).

Payment:Milk Check deduction:

Loc _____ Hlr.______ State #______

Please subtract this amount from my milk check.

Check or money order enclosed payable to MMPA.

No invoices will be issued.

(Signature)

(Date)

Please note: All clothing will have an MMPA logo embroidered on it.Ordered By:

Name:

Street Address:

City: State: Zip:

Phone:

Mail order to:MMPA ClothingP.O. Box 8002

Novi, MI 48376-8002or fax to:

248-426-3412

$8.00

Please add $2 for size 2XL and larger or any tall sizes.

Office Use Only

Order #

DS

DR

MMPA AG WEAR OCTOBER 2015 | MESSENGER 25


More than 1.7 million Michigan residents struggle with hunger every day. These local families who depend on Michigan food banks receive, on average, less than one gallon of milk per person, per year. The United States Department of Agriculture recommends adults drink 68 gallons each year.

To help address this need, your local dairy promotion staff developed programs to help donate milk you work hard to produce to families in need. A few of the programs are highlighted on this page.

Pour it ForwardTwo years ago, UDIM and The Kroger Co. of Michigan created the “Pour it Forward” campaign which has since been adopted on a national level by The Kroger Co. The “Pour it Forward” campaign is now part of the Great American Milk Drive, the first national program designed to help deliver nutrient-rich gallons of milk to hungry families. Through this

program, more than 400,000 gallons of milk have been donated nationwide; Michigan leads the nation, with more than 80,000 gallons of milk donated.

Text to DonateMany of you expressed an interest in donating milk to your local food bank. Based on your requests, your dairy promotion staff created a Text to Donate program that will provide milk to Michigan food banks servicing the area the donor is in.

The program will run through the end of the year. Mobile phone users can text MILK to 50555 to donate $5 to Feeding America/Michigan, which will provide local Michigan families with much-needed milk.

UDIM, with the help of dairy processors, will match all Text to Donate contributions through the end of 2015, up to $30,000.

This year, UDIM hopes to raise 100,000 gallons through their partnership with Kroger and the Text to Donate program.

Help Spread the WordThis is a program everyone can participate in, please share this information to help increase the number of gallons donated. Below are a few sample posts you can customize to share with your friends and online followers. These can also be placed in a local paper or shared through a community or religious newsletter.

“As a dairy farm family, we are proud

to provide milk to our community.

It saddens me to know some may not

have access to our safe, nutritious

product. But, you can help! Text MILK

to 50555 to give $5 to Feeding

America/Michigan today. Michigan

dairy farmers, through United Dairy

Industry of Michigan, will match all

donations up to $30,000.”

“Want to donate milk to families in need who live right in our community? Text MILK to 50555 to give $5 to Feeding America/Michigan today. Michigan dairy farmers, through United Dairy Industry of Michigan, will match all donations up to $30,000.”

“Too many kids are missing out on milk. Local families who depend on Michigan food banks get, on average, less than one gallon of milk per person, per year. Text MILK to 50555 to give $5 to Feeding America/Michigan today. Michigan dairy farmers, through United Dairy Industry of Michigan, will match all donations up to $30,000.”

Your Dairy Promotion Staff Works with You to Donate Milk Across the State

CONTACT JOLENE GRIFFIN AT JOLENE@

MILKMEANSMORE.ORG FOR MORE

INFORMATION OR TO REQUEST COPIES

OF THE POSTCARD, FEATURED IN THIS

ARTICLE, TO PROMOTE THE TEXT TO

DONATE PROGRAM IN YOUR COMMUNITY.

Three Ways to Order your MMPA Merchandise1. Place order through your milk hauler

2. Call in your order:

Duane Farmer, Supervisor .....................................................989-317-8370

Toll Free .................................................................................... 877-367-6455

Orders (Novi) .................................................... 800-572-5824 then dial 2

3. Fax in your order:

MMPA Merchandise fax .......................................................... 989-317-8372

Chemical, Sanitizer

and Teat Dip

Contact Information

These are service personnel only.

Order your Member Merchandise

supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB

24 -Hour Medical

Emergency Hotline:

1-800-328-0026

For Service, call the

Ecolab Service Message Center

1-800-392-3392

or one of the following

service representatives:

Stan Palmer

2105 Fohl Street SW

Canton, OH 44706

330-407-0220

Ben Johnson

4461 Cambridge Dr.

Port Huron, MI 48060

810-824-0636

Pat Mitchell

7273 N. Rollin Hwy.

Addison, MI 49220

517-403-0928

MERCHANDISEMERCHANDISE


M-1 is Now in Operation!

The merchandise warehouse is now blending and repackaging teat dips using the M-1 mixing system. We will be initially offering four different products. Three of these products will be “ready to use,” while the fourth will be a concentrate. All of

these products will be NPE free. NPE (Nonyl-Phenol Ethoxylates) is a binding compound currently used in many iodine based teat dips. This compound has been banned in the European Union and Japan because it is known to cause toxicity in aquatic life. The EPA has initiated an action plan to restrict the use of NPE in the U.S. It is in the process of being phased out of widespread use by many chemical manufacturers. Therefore, we decided to mix and repackage only NPE-free dips.

Following is a list and brief description of the four products we will be offering. All products will be available in 15 and 55 gallon containers. We made an effort to name the products in a fashion that will make it easier to determine the percentage of iodine and emollients each dip possesses. For example “505” means it is a 0.5 percent iodine with a 5 percent emollient package. Pricing has not been established yet, but there should be substantial savings when pricing has been solidified. Please be sure to call the warehouse with any questions regarding any of these products.

Eco Plus SA Concentrate: 15 gallon .......................Stock # 5969 55 gallon ..................Stock # 5970

This product is the NPE version of our current Legend concentrate. We will be replacing the

Legend with this product as our Legend supply is exhausted. It is 1 percent iodine with a 10 percent

emollient package when diluted. This concentrate is mixed on the farm using a mixing pump.

This may also be available in a 300 gallon tote if there is a demand.

Eco Plus SA 505:

15 gallon .......................Stock # 5972 55 gallon ...................Stock # 5973

This ready to use product is 0.5 percent iodine with a 5 percent emollient package.

This can be applied as a pre or post either by dipping or spraying.

Eco Plus SA 1010:

15 gallon ......................Stock # 5974 55 gallon ...................Stock # 5975

This is a ready to use product with 1 percent iodine and a 10 percent emollient package.

This can be applied as a pre or post either by dipping or spraying.

Eco Plus SA 1012:

15 gallon .......................Stock # 5976 55 gallon....................Stock # 5977

This product will be the NPE free replacement for Teat GLo in the 15 gallon and 55 gallon containers.

Teat Glo in the 5 gallon pail will still be available. This is 1 percent iodine with a 12 percent emollient

package. This product is not recommended for spraying and is best used as a post dip.


MMPA Quality Premium Program MMPA Member Testing FeesPayment for testing will be made through an automatic milk

check deduction. All costs are listed per individual sample.

Cow Tests: $1

Cow samples may be tested for:

Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae, Strep non ag, Staphylococcus

aureus, coagulase negative staph, gram negative and/or 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.

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

Lab test results by mail: $2/month

All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA member

representative or the laboratory for proper sample

submission protocol.

MERCHANDISEPREMIUMS

201,000-225,000 .......... +20¢/cwt.

226,000-250,000 ...........+15¢/cwt.

251,000-300,000 ..........+00¢/cwt.

301,000-400,000 .........- 30¢/cwt.

401,000-500,000 ....... -$1.00/cwt.

501,000-600,000 ........-$1.50/cwt.

601,000 and greater . -$2.00/cwt.

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.

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 100,000

The 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

ANTEL-BIO TESTING

Loc/Hlr/Producer # ________________________________ Sample Date _____________________________

Member name ______________________________________________________________________________

Sample ID _________________________________________________________________________________

BLV ELISA _________ Johne’s ELISA ___________ Johne’s PCR ___________ Pregnancy ____________

Refer to above for current pricing. The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer.

This card MUST be filled out completely when sending in samples to be tested by Antel-Bio

to avoid potential service charges.

To place your freeliner ad please call 1-800-572-5824, ext. 202, or

fax 248-426-3412, or email your ad to: [email protected].

FREELINERS

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.

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.

Equipment2001 Renn roller mill, $7,500.

231-878-3768.

2009 Jaylor vertical mixer, twin

screw, new conveyor chain, $10,000

or best offer. 517-420-5042.

1 P&D 16-ft. silo unloader with

good motor. All in good condition.

810-672-9219.

GEHL 860 chopper. 7105 hay head.

TR3038 corn head. $1,500 obo

will separate. 517-331-3872 or

517-282-3819.

(Automatic) roller mill, 3 hp. Baldor

motor, excellent condition, $2,000.

517-563-8729 or 517-740-9981.

Big Jim silo unloader for parts,

24-ft., Kelly incline conveyor for

24-ft. silo, Gehl 970 wagon for parts,

good gear boxes and beater. Gehl

1265 chopper for parts. AC 185 for

parts. (1) ten ton and (1) 12 ton

tandem running gears. Will consider

all offers on these items. Text or call

810-348-5500.

Automatic LPE 700 roller mill with

7-hp. motor. Allis Chalmers 1300

25-foot field cultivator. Also has a

Remlinger single bar harrow. Asking

$4,000 obo. 810-404-0468.

Dairy EquipmentUniversal 2050 gal. bulk tank

with compressor and washer.

231-826-3641.

Dairy FarmCheboygan, Mich. 367.11 acres,

includes double 16 parallel parlor,

4 years old. 2,000 gal. bulk tank,

400 free-stall barn, calf barn,

commodity barn, hay barn, maternity

barn, and pole barn. 45 ac. pasture

by main farm. 7 bedroom brick

home. Can send or email packet with

pictures. Equipment list and appraisal

available. Crops for 2015 are in.

This can be a turn-key operation, or

raise heifers etc. Purchase price is

$990,000, this is for the farm only.

Cows and equipment are separate.

We rent 600 +ac. with $40 being the

highest price paid per acre. Contact

231-625-2036 or 517-202-9421.

We’re ready to make a deal!!

WantedRegistered Holsteins. Call Brent

at 989-551-0681.

New Holland 824 corn head for

New Holland chopper, also seeking a

3 beater forage box. 989-884-2203.

Misc.Heifer Raiser looking for up to 150

heifers to raise in separate facility.

Two barns 75 in each, free stalls and

headlocks available. Sized for your

needs. A.I. breeding and vaccinations

are also available. Ionia County, Mich.

Area. Call Lucas at 616-893-1623

with questions.

Freeliner Policy

The 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/she 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 November issue, the

freeliner must be at the

MMPA office by October 10.

www.mimilk.com



PTO and AutomaticStart Generators

1-800-248-8070M-40 South

Hamilton, MI 49419

www.hamiltondist.com

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS

A special herd sire or a truck loadof breeder bulls.

Ready to go to work on your farm!

GREEN MEADOW FARMS6400 Hollister Road, Elsie, MI 48831

Phone: 989-862-4291

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

OVER 100 SERVICE AGE BULLS FOR YOUR SELECTION! • Sired by the top sires from the

U.S. and Canada• From our top production cows

Cost for classifieds is $20 per ad, up to six lines. All 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. You may submit your ads by:

MAIL: Classified Ads | Michigan Milk Messenger P.O. BOX 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002

EMAIL: [email protected] FAX: 248-426-3412

Concrete Groovingand Texturing

Call: Jeff Brisky - Owner

Toll Free: 1-800-294-1202

Cell: 1-716-353-1137

DRY HAY & STRAW (large & small bales) and Barley for feed. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

MICHIGAN CERTIFIED WHEAT SEED RED & WHITE. Fall Barley seed. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

BARN WHITE WASHING AND CLEANING WITH HIGH PRESSURE AIR: Serving all Michigan and Indiana. Miller Spray Service, Inc. 574-825-9776.

BARN WHITE WASHING: SCHOLTEN SPRAYING SERVICES. 616-895-6307. Allendale

ALFALFA HAY – 1st and 2nd cutting. 4 x 4 Round Bales. Call 616-204-2574.

1460 AXLE FLOW INTERNATIONAL COMBINE – with 1044 wide corn head. Field ready. 231-250-4372.

HAY ROUND BALES 4 x 5 500-600 LBS. 1st and 2nd cutting. 989-766-2708.

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. Three operators will

travel Michigan and other states. No

interest payment terms. Established

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 provides high quality

traction in new & old concrete, fast

service. Call for your below pricing

989-635-1494. BLUE RIBBON HOOF

TRIMMING, LLC.

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.

CLASSIFIED ADS


MMPA Policy on Drug Residue in Milk

MMPA Milk Quality Policy

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

member representative.

• If the tank tests negative (no drugs present), the milk may be

released and shipped.

• If the tank tests positive (drugs present), the member

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.

QUALITY 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 Mt. Pleasant warehouse. The MMPA member representative will verify the switch has been installed. Reim-bursement 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 ship-ping 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.

* The member will only be paid for two (2) voluntary dumps in a rolling 12 month period.

** 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.

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 three or more occurances 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.

HAULERA 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.

MERCHANDISEPOLICIES


Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

% This Month Year Ago Change

Total Class 1 Sales 522,631,249 515,524,576 +1.38


Total Class 3 Sales 275,909,870 566,614,543 -51.31


Total Production 1,426,751,814 1,456,222,872 -2.02

Class 1 Utilization 36.6% 35.4%

Mideast Federal Order #33Total Producers ..................................................................................................... 5.534

Avg. Daily Production per farm ...................................................................... 8,317

Avg. Protein Test ................................................................................................... 3.01%

Avg. Butterfat Test ............................................................................................. 3.58%

Avg. Oth Solids Test ...........................................................................................5.74%

Avg. SCC - MMPA ...........................................................................................183,000

Component Pricing Information -Mideast Federal Order #33Protein Price /lb ................................................................................................$2.5692

Butterfat Price /lb ............................................................................................$2.2674

Other Solids Price /lb ..................................................................................... $0.1151

Class III Price @ 3.5% ......................................................................................... $16.27

Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt ............................................................... ($0.42)

Uniform Price @ 3.5% ........................................................................................ $15.85

SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000 ................................................................. $0.00087

AMS Survey PricesProduct Monthly Avg

Cheese /lb .............................................................................................................. 1.7386

Butter /lb ................................................................................................................2.0438

Nonfat Dry Milk /lb ............................................................................................0.7443

Dry Whey /lb ....................................................................................................... 0.3108

MARKET REPORT

National Trends(million pounds)

2015 2014 % Change

Production

California 3,334 3,451 -3.4

Wisconsin 2,483 2,370 +4.8

Idaho 1,223 1,213 +0.8

New York 1,207 1,178 +2.5

Pennsylvania 893 890 +0.3

Michigan 867 833 +4.1

Texas 827 839 -1.4

Minnesota 800 764 +4.7

New Mexico 649 678 -4.3

Washington 558 560 -0.4

Ohio 466 458 +1.7

Indiana 333 328 +1.5

Total U.S. 16,316 16,184 +0.8

U.S Y-T-D 131,706 129,852 +1.4

For 23 States 16,581 16,381 +1.2

Statistical Summary | FOR MILK MARKETED IN AUGUST 2015


*If you are unable to reach your assigned member representative, please contact the representatives listed in your area.

MMPA Field Staff*Northwest Area Ben Chapin, Supervisor, Blanchard ......................................... 989-289-0731

Frank Brazeau, Energy Auditor, Oconto, WI .................... 906-250-0337

Lyndsay Earl, Ludington .................................................................. 231-519-2455

Sarah Michalek, Portland ..............................................................248-305-0537

Deb Gingrich, Leroy ........................................................................248-520-3580

Dirk Okkema, Blanchard ............................................................. 248-756-2062

Northeast AreaChristy Dinsmoore, Supervisor

& Mastitis Management Specialist, Fairgrove .....................248-513-7920

Lindsay Green, Energy Auditor, East Lansing ...................989-488-8159

Ashley Herriman, Alpena ............................................................. 269-245-6632

Angie Kirsch, Harbor Beach ..........................................................231-414-4539

Drew Rupprecht, Clio ..................................................................... 269-986-6793

Ben Butcher, Durand ........................................................................248-514-5273

South AreaEd Zuchnik, Supervisor

& Energy Auditor, Three Rivers .................................................. 269-967-7351

Krista Beeker, Topeka, IN .............................................................. 269-986-6792

Dave Brady, Grass Lake .......................517-522-5965 or (c) 517-937-9061

Elyse Martin, Charlotte ....................................................................810-701-6460

Joe Packard, Kalamazoo ............................................................... 248-520-3481

Emily Smith, Bronson ..................................................................... 269-535-0822

Other Services

Bulk Tank Calibration

Gary Best, Lapeer ..............................810-664-4984 or (c) 586-484-9279

Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor

Katie Pierson, Coleman .................................................................989-289-9686

Mastitis Management Specialist

Steve Lehman, Ithaca .........................989-875-3441 or (c) 989-330-1638

MMPA Labs

Novi (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)

In Michigan .................................................................................... 800-572-5824

Toll Free........................................................................................... 800-233-2405

Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.) ....................................................989-834-2515

Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.) .....................................800-391-7560

Merchandise - Mt. PleasantDuane Farmer, Supervisor

Main Line .................................................................................................989-317-8370

Toll Free 877-367-6455

Orders (Novi) ............................................................800-572-5824, then dial 2

Fax ..............................................................................................................989-317-8372

Novi HeadquartersMain OfficeLocal line ........................................................................................248-474-6672Toll free ...........................................................................................800-572-5824

General ManagerJoe Diglio ...................................................................................................ext. 200

Chief Financial OfficerJosep Barenys ......................................................................................... ext. 240

Member ServicesDean Letter ................................................................................... 989-289-9251

Milk Sales/DispatchCarl Rasch ...................................................................................................ext. 244

Laboratory SupervisorPatti Huttula ................................................................................................ext. 219

Manufactured Product SalesJim Dodson ................................................................................................ext. 229

QualityAmandeep Dhillon ................................................................................. ext. 305

Credit/InsuranceCheryl Schmandt ......................................................................................ext. 210

Human ResourcesCindy Tilden ...............................................................................................ext. 220

Member Relations/Public AffairsSheila Burkhardt ..................................................................................... ext. 208

Data ProcessingGregory Schulkey .................................................................................... ext. 237

Member CommunicationsAllison Stuby .............................................................................................ext. 296

Manufacturing PlantsConstantineDave Davis, Plant Manager ................................................... 269-435-2835

OvidColt Johnson, Plant Manager .............................................989-834-2221

MERCHANDISEMMPA STAFF

National Trends(million pounds)

2015 2014 % Change

Production

California 3,334 3,451 -3.4

Wisconsin 2,483 2,370 +4.8

Idaho 1,223 1,213 +0.8

New York 1,207 1,178 +2.5

Pennsylvania 893 890 +0.3

Michigan 867 833 +4.1

Texas 827 839 -1.4

Minnesota 800 764 +4.7

New Mexico 649 678 -4.3

Washington 558 560 -0.4

Ohio 466 458 +1.7

Indiana 333 328 +1.5

Total U.S. 16,316 16,184 +0.8

U.S Y-T-D 131,706 129,852 +1.4

For 23 States 16,581 16,381 +1.2

Pioneer.com/BMR

The minor component of the Pioneer® brand Optimum® AcreMax® blend product is not a Brown MidRib corn hybrid. PIONEER® brand products are provided subject to the terms and conditions of purchase which are part of the labeling and purchase documents. ®, TM, SM Trademarks and service marks of DuPont, Pioneer or their respective owners. © 2015 PHII. DUPPFO15026_VA_090115_MMM

CHOOSE FROM A RANGE OF MATURITIESRANGE OF MATURITIES

IMPROVEDDIGESTIBILITYDIGESTIBILITY

INTEGRATED REFUGE OPTIONSREFUGE OPTIONS

HIGHER OUTPUT

NO SACRIFICE

EXPANDED

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michigan milk messenger: october 2015

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