More than 200 farmers, nutritionists and industry professionals recently gathered for Alltech Wisconsin’s Dairy School “One Team, One Dream”. There they discussed the latest strategies for successful dairy farming and goals for industry.
Joseph Kerns, co-owner of Kern and Associates, opened the conference with the topic of risk management. Kerns highlighted this year’s abundant harvest, with dry grains and relatively no major problems. He forecasted that corn and soybean prices will remain low, which will increase United States corn acres for 2016 and soybean acres for South America.
“Global food production will need to increase substantially in the next several years as we will be asked to feed more people in the next 50 years than we have in the past 7,000,” Kerns said.
Dr. Alexandra Weaver, technical support specialist for the Alltech Mycotoxin Management team kicked off the afternoon session by posing the question “What does your team need to know about forage management?”
“Producers should understand that managing mycotoxins starts at the field and ends with the cow,” said Weaver. “Mycotoxins may impact cow performance and health, resulting in a negative impact on profitability. Mycotoxin management from the field to the cow is critical for reducing risks. It is better to be proactive, not reactive.”
Jim Ostrom, president and CEO of Milk Source Agricultural Holding, presented, “Putting together your management team, makes the dream work!” His advice to dairy owners is to hire quality personnel to minimize risk. Ostrum included six steps for successful dairy teamwork:
– Dream big.
– Overcome obstacles by hiring public relations experts, implementing GAAP financials and hiring new department managers.
– Create a process plan of mini steps.
– Seek out talented people for your future team.
– Develop a culture of employee growth.
– Recruit successful business people to advise you.