Wisconsin Archives - Morning Ag Clips https://www.morningagclips.com/category/wisconsin/ America's #1 Ag News Source Fri, 27 Dec 2024 22:35:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.morningagclips.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/cropped-MAc-Logo1-1-32x32.png Wisconsin Archives - Morning Ag Clips https://www.morningagclips.com/category/wisconsin/ 32 32 New Treatment for Dairy Cows Could Help Fight Antibiotic Resistance, Study Finds https://www.morningagclips.com/new-treatment-for-dairy-cows-could-help-fight-antibiotic-resistance-study-finds/ Fri, 27 Dec 2024 08:04:02 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=657120 UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — A concentrated sugar solution could be just as effective as antibiotics at treating a common infection in dairy cows, according to a new study led by researchers at Penn State. The results were recently published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science. The discovery has the potential to reduce reliance on […]

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UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — A concentrated sugar solution could be just as effective as antibiotics at treating a common infection in dairy cows, according to a new study led by researchers at Penn State. The results were recently published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science.

The discovery has the potential to reduce reliance on antibiotics and ultimately help combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance in both humans and animals, said Adrian Barragan, associate research professor and extension veterinarian at Penn State and co-lead author on the paper.

The findings are particularly significant for the organic dairy industry where antibiotic use is restricted, he added, and may also pave the way for future studies in humans on the use of sugar-based formulations for uterine infections such as endometritis.

“The disease is an infection of the uterus that occurs after calving and it’s one of the top diseases that affect dairy cattle in the United States,” said Erika Ganda, assistant professor of food animal microbiomes at Penn State and co-lead author on the study. “We treat cows with antibiotics only when necessary to ensure their welfare, following strict withdrawal periods to prevent residues in milk. Minimizing antibiotic use helps reduce the risk of resistant bacteria that can impact farm workers, families and communities. Antimicrobial resistance in human and veterinary medicine is a growing public health concern, so the main goal of this research was to test an antibiotic-free alternative option against the current gold standard for treating this prevalent disease.”

The study compared two treatments for a common uterine infection, called clinical metritis, that can lead to serious health problems for dairy cows. The condition is typically treated using systemic antibiotics, like ceftiofur, which are effective in treating the condition, but may contribute to the growing antimicrobial resistance in food-producing animals.

“We have been searching for alternative therapies that can effectively treat metritis without relying on antibiotics,” Barragan said. “We asked two main questions when studying an alternative: Do the animals get cured with this treatment? And do treated animals have similar performance? Although the alternative treatment had the same clinical cure rate as the antibiotics, the answer wasn’t as clear cut as expected since performance between treatment groups differed based on disease severity.”

The study focused on using intrauterine dextrose, a sugar solution, as a possible alternative treatment. Dextrose has been extensively studied in animal and human clinical research for its ability to plasmolyze harmful bacteria, essentially the strong sugar solution pulls water out of the bacteria, causing them to dry out and die, Barragan explained. The approach had shown some promise in human wound healing, but previous studies in cattle yielded mixed results.

“We were hopeful that we would find positive results, but we were definitely not expecting to find that both treatments worked similarly for mild cases of metritis,” Barragan said. “That was a very exciting discovery.”

To investigate the effectiveness of dextrose, the researchers conducted a study on a dairy farm in central Pennsylvania. They enrolled 77 cows diagnosed with clinical metritis and randomly assigned them to one of two treatment groups: intrauterine dextrose or systemic ceftiofur. The researchers then monitored the cows’ recovery and analyzed their uterine microbial communities using advanced DNA sequencing to better understand the overall health of their microbiomes.

Although the sample size was not ideal for assessing clinical cure rate, Barragan said, the results suggested that both treatments had similar clinical cure rates, meaning dextrose could be just as effective as antibiotics in treating mild metritis cases.

Additionally, the analysis of the cows’ microbiomes revealed that dextrose does not significantly disrupt the bacterial balance of bacteria in the reproductive tract, unlike antibiotics, which can alter microbial communities and potentially impact the long-term health of the cow, Ganda explained.

Further research is needed to understand the full potential of dextrose as an alternative to antibiotic treatment, Barragan said, but one day that potential could even extend to treating humans.

“Our findings may be applicable for reproductive disease in human medicine,” he said. “In fact, we were inspired by medical literature and sugar-based wound treatments for people.”

The other Penn State authors on the paper are Jennine Lection, who earned a doctoral degree from Penn State and is currently an assistant professor at North Carolina State University; Emily Van Syoc, postdoctoral scholar; Asha Miles, former postdoctoral research associate who is currently a research geneticist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA); Julia Hamilton, undergraduate student; Marcela Martinez, research technologist; and Justin Silverman, assistant professor of statistics and of medicine and faculty fellow of the Institute for Computational and Data Science. Santiago Bas of the Germany-based feed company Phytobiotics Futterzusatzstoffe GmbH also contributed to the paper.

The USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture and Hatch Appropriations, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, and the National Institutes of Health funded this research.

–Adrienne Berard
Penn State

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! https://www.morningagclips.com/merry-christmas-happy-new-year/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 23:40:46 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=657420 GREENWICH, N.Y. — Wow! 2024 is drawing to a close. Where did the year go? I hope all of you will be able to look back on the year’s greatness. Put your pencil to paper as you consider all you learned from 2024; some very important lessons were sprinkled in there. To give time for […]

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GREENWICH, N.Y. — Wow! 2024 is drawing to a close. Where did the year go?

I hope all of you will be able to look back on the year’s greatness. Put your pencil to paper as you consider all you learned from 2024; some very important lessons were sprinkled in there.

To give time for reflection and enjoyment this holiday season, we will not be sending out our daily emails the week between Christmas and New Year’s. The Morning Ag Clips’ daily email will resume on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

There will still be news articles published on our site, so make sure to stay up-to-date by going to morningagclips.com. Every day there will be something new, and there will be an editor watching for breaking ag news every day. But like you, we all need a break, and the only way to get it is to be extremely intentional about it, so we are!

Here’s to you, your family, and a prosperous and healthy New Year! We will see you in 2025!

With love,
Kate

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Driftless Region Beef Conference Offered in Dubuque https://www.morningagclips.com/driftless-region-beef-conference-offered-in-dubuque/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 19:10:28 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=657454 FREEPORT, Ill. — University of Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin Extension services are working together to offer the thirteenth annual Driftless Region Beef Conference to be held on January 23 and 24, 2025 at the Grand River Convention Center in Dubuque, IA. The aim of the conference is to provide educational sessions for beef producers. The […]

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FREEPORT, Ill. — University of Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin Extension services are working together to offer the thirteenth annual Driftless Region Beef Conference to be held on January 23 and 24, 2025 at the Grand River Convention Center in Dubuque, IA. The aim of the conference is to provide educational sessions for beef producers. The early registration fee of $120 per person must be received prior to midnight on January 10, 2025. After that, the price increases to $145 per person. To register visit go.illinois.edu/driftless where you can also find more information on topics, speakers, and lodging.

Thursday will start out with keynote speakers Dr. Derrell Peel from Oklahoma State University and Dr. Troy Rowan from University of Tennessee. Also speaking Thursday will be Dr. Marta Kohmann from the University of Wisconsin.

Dr. Marta Kohmann will speak on “Managing Pastures for Long-Term Production”. Grazing management is no easy task. Several decisions are needed to ensure productive pastures that keep up with animal requirements long term. Dr. Kohmann will go over main principles of sustainable pasture management. Some of the most recent grazing studies that are underway will be shared as well.

Rounding out Thursday evening after dinner will be the popular “Bull Pen” discussion featuring a panel of locker plant managers from the Driftless Area sharing their insights and answering questions about marketing beef locally.

Friday morning will start out with a breakfast session on “Challenges and Joys of Family Farm Transitions” where Bruce and Peyton River of Maquoketa, IA will share their experiences on these challenges.

Following the breakfast session, breakout sessions will be offered on a variety of topics. One track will focus on the cow herd while the other focuses more on feedlot aspects.

The feedlot focused sessions this year will be led by Joseph Lensing from Iowa State University, Erika Woolfolk from Iowa State University, Denise Schwab from Iowa State University, and Josh McCann from University of Illinois.

Joseph Lensing will talk about “Risk Management in a High-Priced Market” focusing on analyzing the risk protection and strategies to protect the value of feeder and fed cattle in the current market.

Erika Woolfolk will talk about “Effects of Market Timing and Performance Technologies on Marketing Decisions for High Quality Midwest Cattle”. This talk will share results of a study conducted at Iowa State University to evaluate the tradeoff related to days on feed and market timing contingent on feeds costs, grid premiums, and discounts for high quality cattle sold on a carcass or grid market basis.

Denise Schwab will talk about the “BeefXDairy Lifetime Performance Project” which was an Iowa State University project that looked at the impacts of early life nutrition on lifetime growth, health, and performance on beef dairy cross calves. The final results of the study will be shared as well as implications for managing beef dairy cross calves for performance, health, and carcass merit.

Josh McCann will talk about “Causes and Costs of Erratic Intake in the Feedyard”. Consistent dry matter intake is the hallmark of good management. McCann will discuss why it is important to consider the causes and costs of erratic feed intake.

Finally, to wrap up the conference, everyone will come together again and hear Derrell Peel talk on “Cattle Market Outlook: 2025 and Beyond” which encompasses the current cattle market situation and factors affecting producer profitability.

About Extension: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions and adapt to changes and opportunities.

–Nikki Keltner, Illinois Extension

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Late Winter Market begins at Garver Feed Mill https://www.morningagclips.com/late-winter-market-begins-at-garver-feed-mill/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 18:46:19 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=657448 MADISON, Wis. — Beginning on Saturday, January 4, 2025, and running each Saturday through April 5, 2025, the Dane County Farmers’ Market will host its weekly Late Winter Market at Garver Feed Mill, from 8 a.m. to noon. Customers will find over 50 of their favorite Dane County Farmers’ Market (DCFM) members with products including a full […]

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MADISON, Wis. — Beginning on Saturday, January 4, 2025, and running each Saturday through April 5, 2025, the Dane County Farmers’ Market will host its weekly Late Winter Market at Garver Feed Mill, from 8 a.m. to noon.

Customers will find over 50 of their favorite Dane County Farmers’ Market (DCFM) members with products including a full array of seasonal Wisconsin fruits and vegetables, cheeses, honey and maple syrups, local meats, baked goods, and many specialty items.

New this year! The market has expanded this year featuring 10 more vendors each week compared to years past. The added space will give customers more options for locally grown winter produce and more room to move around.

Additionally, Green Box Compost will provide free food scraps compost drop-off at all Late Winter Markets. Bring your food scraps in your own container, drop them in the bin next to the Information Booth, then do your shopping for the week!

The DCFM offers SNAP/EBT services at every market. Please visit the Information Booth to use your Quest card and Foodshare with your local farmers. Also, the Dane County Farmers’ Market Cookbook: Local Foods, Global Flavors will be for sale to help market patrons brighten winter nights with delectable dishes. Find more information about the cookbook on our website.

Visit our website for directions, information on parking, accessibility and more. There are a limited number of parking spots at Garver Feed Mill. However, there are plenty of parking options only a 3-5 minute walk away. Please review your parking options before visiting the market so those with limited mobility or small children can park as close as possible to the building. The walk from these lots to Garver is shorter than a walk halfway around the Square! Garver is also conveniently located along the Capital City Trail bike path and is on several bus routes.

You can also check out our guide on ‘How to Have an Awesome Visit to Our Late Winter Market” for more details on what to expect and how to find the freshest Wisconsin grown goodness in the depths of winter.

The Dane County Farmers’ Market has been a Madison tradition since 1972. With more than 220 members, the DCFM provides the best of each season’s bounty.  As the nation’s largest producer-only farmers’ market, everything for sale at the market has been grown, raised, and made by the member behind the stand. There is no resale permitted.

–Dane County Farmers’ Market

 

 

 

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In the Cattle Markets: Dec. Cattle on Feed Report & Cautionary Note on “Demand Destruction” https://www.morningagclips.com/in-the-cattle-markets-dec-cattle-on-feed-report-cautionary-note-on-demand-destruction/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:00:51 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=657479 LAKEWOOD, Colo. — On Friday, December 20 USDA NASS released the latest Cattle on Feed report (https://usda.library.cornell.edu/concern/publications/m326m174z?locale=en ). December 1st inventory was estimated at 11.98 million, on par with 2023. Placements in November were estimated at 1.80 million, down 4% from 2023 while marketings were estimated at 1.73 million, down 1% from 2023. Overall, this report […]

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LAKEWOOD, Colo. — On Friday, December 20 USDA NASS released the latest Cattle on Feed report (https://usda.library.cornell.edu/concern/publications/m326m174z?locale=en ). December 1st inventory was estimated at 11.98 million, on par with 2023. Placements in November were estimated at 1.80 million, down 4% from 2023 while marketings were estimated at 1.73 million, down 1% from 2023. Overall, this report was in line with pre-report expectations and likely will not be a market-mover with interest transitioning to 2025 reports including the January Cattle Inventory report.

I expect the January Cattle Inventory report to show some additional liquidation has occurred leading to a smaller calf crop in 2025. It seems most likely that the summer of 2026 is the soonest substantial national heifer retention may begin. While there is recently elevated uncertainty around international trade that should not be overlooked, most anticipate domestic beef availability to decline perhaps by 2-3% per year (per person) in 2025 and 2026.

Given this setting and the opportunity for some extended armchair-pondering around the holidays, some context on economic concepts and an important historical reminder is prudent. Economists analyzing the beef industry use the term “demand” to refer to the willingness and ability to buy beef at a specific price. A change in beef demand is not triggered by changes in beef prices but rather by consumer income or wealth adjustments, changes in prices of other goods, or perceptions of beef quality evolving. To this later point, the clear improvement in overall beef quality (simple example is Prime or Upper Choice percentage versus past decades) has been core to beef demand growth (see K-State demand indices here: https://agmanager.info/livestock-meat/meat-demand/monthly-domestic-meat-demand-indices-usdabls-data/monthly-domestic-0 ).

As we turn to 2025 it is important to pause and connect the dots around things such as current feedlot supplies, future breeding herd size and corresponding beef availability, and what one may expect at the retail and food service level. Yes, lower beef supplies are expected and with that, most anticipate higher end-user beef prices. In fact, the industry should be hoping for that! Research with Melissa McKendree, Ted Schroeder, and Nathan Hendricks (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1093/ajae/aaz034 ) shows that feeder cattle sellers stand to gain the most when beef demand grows, and lose the most when demand falters.

If alternatively, lower beef availability is observed in conjunction with flat or lower beef prices, then beef demand clearly declined. In that unfortunate situation, economic viability for most in the industry also declines. While some younger market participants may dismiss this scenario, recall the 1980s & 90s was a period largely characterized by a shrinking herd, weakening beef demand, and overall decline in industry vitality. Indeed, lower beef volumes alone do not guarantee higher beef nor cattle prices. This experience is worth periodic reflection as the industry has made massive improvements that should not be overlooked or taken for granted. To the extent that beef prices increase reflecting stable or growing beef demand that indeed is a market outcome that should not only “be allowed” but encouraged. While the term “demand destruction” is likely to appear more in coming months, industry stakeholders are encouraged to take pause and in fact hope that higher prices develop reflecting stable or growing beef demand.

Finally, and most importantly I wish all readers a Merry Christmas, the ability to see the true reason for the season, and a joyous New Year.

cattle feed livestock

— Glynn T. Tonsor, Ph.D., Department of Agricultural Economics, Kansas State University

Livestock Marketing Information Center

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DNR to Host First Day Hikes https://www.morningagclips.com/dnr-to-host-first-day-hikes/ Sun, 22 Dec 2024 20:25:52 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=657339 MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages Wisconsinites to join the DNR at one of several First Day Hikes scheduled at state properties on New Year’s Day. Participating in a First Day Hike is a healthy, refreshing way to kick off the new year. “Starting the new year in the outdoors is […]

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MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourages Wisconsinites to join the DNR at one of several First Day Hikes scheduled at state properties on New Year’s Day.

Participating in a First Day Hike is a healthy, refreshing way to kick off the new year.

“Starting the new year in the outdoors is refreshing for both our body and mind, and what better way to kick off the 125th anniversary of the Wisconsin State Park System than by attending a First Day Hike,” said Steve Schmelzer, DNR Parks and Recreation Management Director.

While many properties will be hosting First Day Hikes around the state, a keystone anniversary celebration will take place at Mirror Lake State Park in Baraboo. Join staff at the boat launch parking lot for a brief program at 11 a.m., followed by a guided 1.5-mile hike on the Echo Rock and Cliffwood Coulee trails. The Echo Rock Trail is a 0.3-mile universally accessible paved rail leading to a scenic overlook. From the overlook, attendees can choose to return to the parking lot or continue onto the Cliffwood Coulee trail. Refreshments will be provided, and a fire will be lit to keep people warm.

First Day hikes have a specific start time and gathering spot, providing a great introduction to winter adventuring for beginner hikers or those new to exploring Wisconsin’s natural areas. Experienced hikers are invited to share their knowledge and help build the state’s outdoor community. Some guided hikes are pet-free, so please check with the property before bringing your furry friends.

Self-guided hikes allow participants to choose their own pace or difficulty level, from gently sloping nature trails to advanced routes. Drop by anytime during the event window, and property staff may offer maps and recommendations for self-guided adventuring.

Warm clothing, hats, gloves, warm boots or insulated hiking shoes are highly recommended. Some properties will also have bonfires or warming shelters to help you fight off the cold.

“First Day Hikes bring together visitors from all walks of life looking for winter fun. We hope that events like this will inspire passion for the outdoors and a desire to explore our state’s natural treasures as we celebrate 125 years of conservation, recreation and memories at Wisconsin state parks, trails and forests,” said Schmelzer.

First Day Hikes are free, but a vehicle admission pass or state trail pass may be required. For those who need a state park daily admission pass, a free one may be available at your local library. Learn more about participating libraries.

Most events include options beyond hiking, like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, refreshments and winter activities. Those interested in snowshoe rentals or reserving an outdoor wheelchair should contact the property beforehand. Additionally, check with the property for universally accessible trail conditions.

For details on First Day Hike events, visit the DNR Events calendar. Note that events may be canceled in cases of inclement weather.

If a First Day Hike is unavailable in your area, you are still invited to visit a Wisconsin state park, forest, trail or recreation area. Properties are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. year-round.

First Day Hikes are an initiative from the National Association of State Park Directors to encourage active outdoor recreation on New Year’s Day.

More events may be added; check the DNR Events calendar for the latest information.

–Wisconsin DNR

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DATCP Accepting Nominations for Retail Food Safety Advisory Council Seats https://www.morningagclips.com/datcp-accepting-nominations-for-retail-food-safety-advisory-council-seats/ Sun, 22 Dec 2024 18:16:38 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=657327 MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced that the Retail Food Safety Advisory Committee recently transitioned into the Retail Food Safety Advisory Council (RFSAC). Made up of 20 members from across Wisconsin, the council will help promote a culture of food protection in the state, with open communication between government and industry. The […]

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MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) announced that the Retail Food Safety Advisory Committee recently transitioned into the Retail Food Safety Advisory Council (RFSAC). Made up of 20 members from across Wisconsin, the council will help promote a culture of food protection in the state, with open communication between government and industry. The council will also provide recommendations to DATCP in identifying opportunities to promote industry education, training, and consistency, and to address emerging trends in food protection.

“We believe in strong partnerships and working collaboratively with the industry,” said DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski. “DATCP educates while we regulate as we share the industry’s goals of providing safe products for consumers. The Retail Food Safety Advisory Council provides the opportunity for renewed and strengthened partnerships between DATCP and the industry.”

DATCP is accepting nominations for the RFSAC through February 1, 2025. Seats representing the following categories are being sought for the council: Wisconsin Grocers Association representative, small retail food establishment – serving meals operator, small retail food establishment – not serving meals operator, convenience store operator with significant food service, and a meat establishment operator with a retail food service operation.

“The Retail Food Safety Advisory Council is a great example of how industry works with DATCP to achieve common goals and protect public health,” said Dr. Jay L. E. Ellingson, Chief Science Officer at Kwik Trip, Inc. and RFSAC council chair. “By working together, we promote food safety practices and have a direct communication and feedback line to government about opportunities and challenges in retail food.”

Members of the RFSAC serve four-year terms and the council meets quarterly, for a total of four times per calendar year. Newly appointed members will start their term in early 2025. Nomination materials and more information on the council are available on DATCP’s website.

A committee of DATCP staff and stakeholder representatives will evaluate nominees and make recommendations for appointment to the DATCP Secretary. Nomination forms should explain why nominees would be valuable additions to the council. Completed nomination forms should be mailed to James Kaplanek, DATCP, PO Box 8911, Madison, WI 53708 or emailed to DATCPDFRSRetailFoodSafetyAdvisory@wisconsin.gov. For questions, contact Sarah Scanlan, DATCP RFSAC Secretary, at (920) 889-0091.

Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection

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2024 Checkoff Highlights Drive Sales, Trust, Innovation for Dairy Industry https://www.morningagclips.com/2024-checkoff-highlights-drive-sales-trust-innovation-for-dairy-industry/ Fri, 20 Dec 2024 18:31:57 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=657260 ROSEMONT, Ill. — Dairy checkoff initiatives of 2024 successfully increased dairy access in schools, expanded market share for U.S. dairy products domestically and internationally and supported the industry’s longstanding commitment to sustainability on behalf of U.S. dairy farmers and importers. Dairy Management Inc. (DMI) President and CEO Barbara O’Brien pointed to a collective effort of […]

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ROSEMONT, Ill. — Dairy checkoff initiatives of 2024 successfully increased dairy access in schools, expanded market share for U.S. dairy products domestically and internationally and supported the industry’s longstanding commitment to sustainability on behalf of U.S. dairy farmers and importers.

Dairy Management Inc. (DMI) President and CEO Barbara O’Brien pointed to a collective effort of national and local teams that delivered results this year.

“The checkoff is working, and we have achieved a lot in building the next chapter of our history,” said O’Brien, who outlined “now, next and future” checkoff strategies at this year’s joint annual meeting. “This success was made possible by the dedication and hard work of everyone across the checkoff federation. This was a strong year of results as we continue to work with and through others to catalyze action against our trust- and sales-building priorities.”

Checkoff-led highlights from 2024 include:

Increasing Dairy Access in Schools

A partnership provided hot chocolate milk to students during a pilot with Chartwells K12, which serves more than 2 million meals daily at 700 school districts. National Dairy Council (NDC) and Chartwells launched the Hot Chocolate Milk program in 58 schools, which features hot chocolate milk – with toppings such as cinnamon and peppermint – served during breakfast and lunch.

Another school pilot offered lactose-free chocolate milk and increased consumption and reached students who weren’t drinking milk because of real or perceived lactose intolerance. NDC and American Dairy Association Mideast worked with Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) to offer the country’s first single-serve lactose-free chocolate milk program. When compared to the rest of the district, the pilot schools experienced a 16-percent increase in milk consumption. The pilot was so successful that CPS is offering lactose-free chocolate milk in all schools.

Partnerships Growing Sales

The checkoff’s longstanding strategy of working with and through powerful partners continues to deliver results. For example, the checkoff supported Domino’s with its launch of cheese-centric items, including the New York Style Pizza and five-cheese mac and cheese.

This strategy of working with pizza partners also continues to find success internationally, a key tactic to reach the 95% of the world’s population that lives outside of the United States. DMI’s partnership with Pizza Hut Japan led to the chain announcing a permanent 30% increase of cheese use on all pizzas.

Other partnership innovations included working with General Mills to create YoBark, a yogurt-based snack designed to give families a tasty option and expand yogurt’s presence in the snacking category.

Sharing The Science of Dairy

One emerging research area is dairy’s impact on the first 1,000 days of life – encompassing pregnancy through a child’s second birthday. This is a critical period for brain development, which is impacted by nutrition and dairy can significantly support cognitive development, thanks to nutrients including iodine and choline. Checkoff organizations nationally and locally teamed with MilkPEP to elevate awareness and understanding of dairy’s contributions with expecting mothers and parents seeking nutrition guidance.

NDC also showed its ability to convene thought leaders when it hosted more than 100 national and international health and wellness experts for a two-day scientific conference addressing the dairy matrix, the concept of exploring the unique nutrient, non-nutrient and molecular compositions of dairy foods. Among the meeting attendees were representatives and speakers from major health professional organizations leading universities and organizations.

Supporting Dairy’s Sustainability Legacy

 The checkoff is focused on deepening its knowledge and attracting the investment in research on practices and technologies that work from a mitigation standpoint, and tools and resources to support adoption. DMI is tracking more than $29 million in additional investment from partners for pilot projects and research that empower sustainability action. One example is the Greener Cattle Initiative, a collaboration which announced a second round $5 million funding for enteric methane mitigation research.

The checkoff launched the Dairy Conservation Navigator, a resource hub designed to provide farm advisors, stakeholders and conservation professionals with science-based information on sustainable practices and technologies. Checkoff scientists and others developed a list of 80-plus practices that have a positive environmental benefit.

Checkoff Sparking Innovation

 The checkoff showcased dairy innovation and its nutrition package to 70,000 people attending Natural Products Expo West, the leading trade show in the natural, organic and healthy products industry. DMI unveiled its www.InnovateWithDairy.com tool, which serves as a one-stop shop for anyone seeking information about dairy innovation.

DMI also kept its focus on future innovators with its New Product Competition. A University of Minnesota team took first with a creamy Norwegian-style, whey-based cheese spread.

More checkoff results, including financial reports, can be found at www.dairycheckoff.com.


About Dairy Management Inc.

Dairy Management Inc.™ (DMI) is funded by America’s more than 26,000 dairy farmers, as well as dairy importers. Created to help increase sales and demand for dairy products, DMI and its related organizations work to increase demand for dairy through research, education and innovation, and to maintain confidence in dairy foods, farms and businesses. DMI manages National Dairy Council and the American Dairy Association, and founded the U.S. Dairy Export Council, and the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy.

–Dairy Management Inc.

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USDA Connects Rural Areas to Reliable High-Speed Internet in 18 States https://www.morningagclips.com/usda-connects-rural-areas-to-reliable-high-speed-internet-in-18-states/ Fri, 20 Dec 2024 01:58:41 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=657154 BRAINERD, Minn. — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced more than $313 million in funding to connect rural residents, farmers and business owners in 18 states to reliable high-speed internet. Projects are being financed by the fifth round of the ReConnect Program and are a central part of President Biden’s Investing […]

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BRAINERD, Minn. — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced more than $313 million in funding to connect rural residents, farmers and business owners in 18 states to reliable high-speed internet.

Projects are being financed by the fifth round of the ReConnect Program and are a central part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to rebuild the economy.

“Keeping the people of rural America connected with good, reliable high-speed internet brings new and innovative ideas to the rest of our country and creates good-paying jobs,” Secretary Vilsack said. “That’s why USDA’s ReConnect Program is an important part of our partnership with rural communities. Through these investments, we are connecting the most rural and remote communities to a global marketplace and bringing new opportunities within reach.”

USDA Rural Utilities Service Administrator Andy Berke made today’s announcement during a visit to Consolidated Telephone Company in Brainerd, Minnesota, which is receiving a $5,510,933 million loan and a $5,510,933 grant to connect 2,831 people, 67 businesses and 78 farms in Crow Wing and Morrison counties.

The ReConnect Program is specifically designed to fund the most difficult high-speed internet projects in the nation, which are in the most rural, remote and unserved communities.

Many residents and businesses in rural areas would not have high-speed internet service without the ReConnect Program. The program is a key part of the Administration’s Internet for All initiative to connect everyone in America to high-speed internet by 2030.

Since the beginning of the Biden-Harris Administration, the Department has invested approximately $4.4 billion for 360 ReConnect awards that will bring high-speed internet access to more than 680,000 people in the most rural and remote areas of America. More than $2.2 billion of this funding, which will benefit an estimated 341,000 people, was made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

Today’s investments will connect people to high-speed internet in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Georgia, Idaho, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin.

For example:

  • In Michigan, Waldron Communication Co. is receiving a $3 million loan and a $3 million grant to provide high-speed internet that will connect 599 people, 18 businesses and 32 farms in Hillsdale and Lenawee counties.
  • In Arizona, CoxCom LLC is receiving a $14.7 million grant to connect 6,579 people, 88 businesses, two farms and nine educational facilities in Cochise, Pima and Pinal counties.
  • In Washington, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation is receiving a $19.1 million grant to connect 165 people, six businesses and 20 farms across the Colville Reservation in Okanogan County.

Today’s announcement also includes a Broadband Technical Assistance pilot project in Nevada. Valley Electric Association Inc. is receiving a $542,281 Cooperative Agreement to promote the deployment of high-speed fiber networks to the rural areas of Clark, Esmerelda, Lyon, Mineral and Nye counties.

The project will use innovative partnerships with local internet service providers and energy providers to promote the development of mid-mile and last-mile fiber in these remote areas of Nevada. The project will provide solutions for the delivery of products and services that include design, engineering, procurement, permitting, construction, operations, maintenance and repair and regulatory compliance.

The Broadband Technical Assistance (BTA) program supports technical assistance projects such as conducting feasibility studies, completing network designs and developing broadband financial assistance applications. Funding is also available to help organizations access federal resources, and to conduct data collection and reporting.

Since the launch of the BTA program in April 2023, the Department has provided more than $16.29 million to support 42 technical assistance projects across 24 states.

A full list of projects from today’s announcement is available online.

Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and healthcare; and high-speed internet access in rural, Tribal and high-poverty areas. Visit the Rural Data Gateway to learn how and where these investments are impacting rural America. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate-smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.

— USDA Rural Development

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Wisconsin Farm Bureau Seeks District 4 Coordinator https://www.morningagclips.com/wisconsin-farm-bureau-seeks-district-4-coordinator/ Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:58:41 +0000 https://www.morningagclips.com/?p=657182 MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation is seeking applicants for the position of District 4 Coordinator in West Central Wisconsin. Duties include working with volunteer Farm Bureau leaders in a six-county territory to develop and implement programs to serve Farm Bureau members; organizing and conducting activities that result in membership growth in each county, […]

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MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation is seeking applicants for the position of District 4 Coordinator in West Central Wisconsin.

Duties include working with volunteer Farm Bureau leaders in a six-county territory to develop and implement programs to serve Farm Bureau members; organizing and conducting activities that result in membership growth in each county, serving as a liaison between WFBF and county Farm Bureaus; meeting monthly with county Farm Bureau boards of directors to provide them with information from WFBF and assist with the implementation of county programs; surfacing and developing members that become active leaders in the Farm Bureau organization; assisting with production of quarterly newsletters; and providing administrative support for county Farm Bureaus through the County Farm Bureau Services Program. County Farm Bureaus in the district include Buffalo, Eau Claire, Jackson, La Crosse, Monroe and Trempealeau.

This position requires working from home, with significant travel within the assigned territory, including occasional overnight travel. A company vehicle is provided.

A full job description can be found here.

To apply, send a cover letter and resume to Bob Leege, WFBF Executive Director of Member Relations at bleege@wfbf.com.

The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation is committed to embracing sustainable solutions for a stronger tomorrow. Made up of 61 county Farm Bureaus, it represents agriculturists and farms of every size, commodity and management style.  

–Wisconsin Farm Bureau

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