LOW-COST DAIRY MODERNIZATION BOOSTS LOCAL ECONOMY

SITUATION
Although Marathon County is the largest milk producing county in Wisconsin, many of the 800+ dairy farms still operate in relatively labor-intensive facilities. The origins of these facilities and farmstead plans often go back 50 years or more. These facilities require alterations to help producers milk, feed, house, and handle manure with the latest technology and system innovations available. For some, the decision might be making no change, but for others, building retrofits and potentially growing their business may be the best way for farm families to increase profitability, and continue farming. By deciding to reinvest in their physical infrastructure, dairy producers are also creating jobs and boosting the local economy. Overall, Marathon County agriculture provides 10,427 jobs (mostly dairy related), just over 12 percent of the total county workforce, and generates more than $1.24 billion in economic activity.

RESPONSE/EVALUATION
Dairy Moderrnization has been a priority program for years. In 2005, Wildeck worked closely with David Kammel, Biological Systems Engineering, the Partnership for Progressive Agriculture (PPA), a program of the Wausau/Marathon County Chamber of Commerce, and a WI Department of Agriculture to secure grant funding for a new position that reached 520 local producers through various educational activities. By obtaining other grant funding, Wildeck has been able to continue focused dairy modernization work in 2006 and 2007. Federal funds are also encumbered for a 60% position through 2008. Wildeck sees that this position (Sam Zimmermann) receives the training and support necessary to meet producer and industry needs.

Wildeck and Zimmermann have worked closely together to deliver educational activities on dairy modernization.  Our dairy modernization web page contains virtual tours of and photo galleries of dairy farms that have made significant changes in their facilities, with the help of UWEX information (see  http://marathon.uwex.edu/ag/modern/index.html). Group activities in 2007 included “Extreme Makeover—the Parlor Edition”. In a collaborative effort with neighboring counties, we had 110 producers and agribusiness people involved in two local meetings. This program involved state specialists and addressed general questions that producers often face when considering modernization of an existing facility. The group meeting led to on-farm consultation with several participants. On June 14, a Compost Barn Workshop and Tour was attended by 70 persons.  A joint effort between Marathon, Clark, and Taylor counties, this program drew interest across the state.  A survey showed that more than half of the participants “agreed or strongly agreed” that a new dairy building was being planned.  Participation in dairy modernization displays at farm shows, World Dairy Expo, and WI Farm Technology Days also increased visibility with local farmers at these events. Wildeck raised additional awareness of dairy modernization opportunities through stories in the AgLink newsletter, local news media, and an article for the Wisconsin Agriculturalist magazine.

FUTURE IMPLICATIONS
Establishing successful local examples of modernized dairy facilities will have a ripple-effect in Marathon County and the surrounding area. Dairy producers are greatly influenced by the successes and failures of their neighbors. As early-adopters demonstrate the profitability of dairy modernization strategies, Wildeck expects others to follow. Marathon County is a state leader for MVP (Milk Volume Program) participation with eight dairies currently receiving federal funding to expand their operations. Since each dairy cow generates about $15,000 to $17,000 of economic activity, these educational efforts are of great importance to local economies.

Mike Wildeck, Director/Dairy Agent - 2007 Success Story

« 2007 Success Stories Main | Top