Davis Peeler, Starr, S.C., will receive one of seven Young Jersey Breeder Awards given by the American Jersey Cattle Association in ceremonies on June 27, 2014, during the association’s Annual Meetings in Alexandria, Virginia.

The Young Jersey Breeder Award is presented to individuals or couples who are at least 28 years old and under the age of 40 on January 1 of the year nominated, who merit recognition for their expertise in dairy farming, breeding Jersey cattle, participation in programs of the American Jersey Cattle Association and National All-Jersey Inc., and leadership in Jersey and other dairy and agriculture organizations.

Davis returned to Milky Way Farm in 2003 as a third-generation Registered Jersey™ breeder. That same year, he was the winner of the AJCA’s National Jersey Youth Achievement Contest, capping his extensive involvement with AJCA youth programs. Since transitioning from a full-time employee to a business partner, Davis’ attention now centers on cow and calf care and reproduction programs. His breeding philosophy focuses on developing an efficient cow that can produce profitably on pasture and breed back quickly under the stresses of the southern climate.

The top two-thirds of the herd are strategically mated, utilizing both genomic young sires and progeny-proven bulls. All of the animals in the 100-cow herd are bred by A.I., about half to each sire group. Recently, Davis has begun to genomic test selected cows and heifers to increase future marketing opportunities.

When Davis returned to the farm, the Peeler family ventured into selling milk directly to the consumer in a local market for fresh milk. Although business was slow at first, it has seen enough growth in recent years to consider expanding with additional products such as butter and cheese in the future.