Explore dairy farming’s future at Cremona’s 79th Livestock Exhibitions. Ready for innovation and networking?

Imagine a gathering that seamlessly blends the rich dairy farming traditions with groundbreaking innovations, shaping the industry’s future. The 79th International Livestock Exhibitions in Cremona is not just any event; it’s a pivotal moment for dairy farmers and industry professionals worldwide. It offers an unparalleled chance to experience cutting-edge agricultural technology, network with global leaders in dairy production, and explore a showcase of the finest dairy breeds. This exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the future of dairy farming. History and innovation converge in this industry to create a more sustainable tomorrow. By attending, you’ll gain insights into the latest advancements, connect with industry leaders, and shape the future of dairy farming.

Sponsored by:

Where Tradition Meets Innovation: Global Dairy Excellence at Cremona 

The Cremona International Livestock Exhibitions, held at Cremona Fiere from November 28 to 30, 2024, is a remarkable convergence of global dairy excellence and cutting-edge innovation. Hosting over 800 animals, this event draws participants from five nations, creating a diverse tapestry of international livestock expertise. Attendees are treated to an impressive assembly of elite dairy breeds, including the renowned Holstein, Red Holstein, Jersey, and Bruna cattle. These exemplary breeds showcase superior genetic traits and reflect the pinnacle of dairy farming achievements worldwide. 

This exhibition isn’t merely a showcase; it’s a significant platform fostering global connections and knowledge exchange among dairy industry professionals. By presenting the latest advancements and innovations, the event positions itself as a crucial hub for those looking to remain at the forefront of dairy farming. Participants are given a unique opportunity to witness the breadth of modern agricultural practices and exchange insights with peers from around the globe, underscoring the event’s vital role in advancing tradition and innovation within the dairy sector. It’s a chance to connect with like-minded professionals and be part of a global community shaping the future of dairy farming.

Nathan Thomas: Guardian of Dairy Tradition and Visionary Judge

Nathan Thomas stands as a prominent figure in the world of dairy judging. He brings his expertise to this year’s Cremona International Livestock Exhibition. Nathan, alongside his wife Jenny and their children Colton, Kendall, and Camryn, runs the renowned Triple-T Holsteins in North Lewisburg, Ohio. Their operation includes a herd of around 100 registered Holsteins and Jerseys, with 30 cows currently in milk production. They also manage roughly 200 acres of hay annually. Triple-T has gained recognition for producing over 150 All-American and All-Canadian contenders. Among their champions are names like Extreme Electra and Stephan Sparkler Vera. At the heart of their Holstein lineage is T-Triple-T Dundee Paige, a foundational cow that has birthed three offspring with a remarkable score of 95 points and several other notable progeny. Nathan’s judging credentials are extensive, covering many local and international shows across Holstein, Jersey, and other breed categories. He handles everything from marketing to livestock and embryo sales, running the farm’s daily operations. Moreover, he co-manages the annual “The Best of Triple-T and Heath” sales event. In addition, Nathan supervises the show string for Vierra Dairy, which proudly showcased the Supreme Champion of this year’s World Dairy Expo, Stoney Point Joel Bailey.

Innovation Alley: The Technological Marvels Transforming Dairy Farming at Cremona 

As visitors step into the Innovation Alley at the Cremona International Livestock Exhibitions, they are greeted by a panorama of technological wonders designed to reshape the dairy farming landscape. Cutting-edge milking machines promise to streamline processes and reduce manual labor. At the same time, feed optimization software offers personalized nutrition plans that enhance cow health and milk production. Exhibitors showcase the latest genetic engineering, providing breeds with heightened resilience and productivity and ensuring farmers can meet market demands efficiently. 

The profound transformation anticipated from these innovations is profound. Precision farming tools offer real-time data, enabling farmers to make informed decisions swiftly and accurately. This technological interface boosts efficiency and reduces waste, aligning with the growing need for sustainable farming practices. Companies exhibiting at the event highlighted how automation can lead to considerable reductions in labor costs, freeing resources for reinvestment in farm development. 

Moreover, the commitment to sustainability is evident in the profiles of products focusing on environmental stewardship. Renewable resource utilization and waste reduction technologies underscore a shift towards a greener industry. These advancements are not just about increasing milk yield but are pivotal in creating a sustainable ecosystem that today’s consumers demand. 

By embracing these solutions, dairy farms position themselves at the forefront of the industry’s evolution. The shift towards innovative practices is vital for maintaining relevance in a competitive market and meeting legislative requirements and societal expectations of environmental responsibility. In the fast-paced world of dairy farming, innovation is not optional—it is imperative. Your role in this evolution is crucial, and your decisions and actions can shape the industry’s future.

Unlocking Dairy Farming Potential: A Deep Dive into Cremona’s Education Treasure Trove 

The conference schedule at this year’s Cremona International Livestock Exhibitions offers a rich tapestry of educational opportunities designed to enhance professional knowledge and skills. Attendees will be able to engage in over 70 diverse programs, each thoughtfully crafted to address pivotal aspects of dairy farming. From in-depth technical workshops focusing on cutting-edge breeding methods to sessions exploring the latest trends in dairy economics, the breadth of topics ensures there is something for every attendee seeking to bolster their expertise. 

Delve into sessions that unravel the mysteries of animal health innovations or tackle the complexities of sustainable dairy practices. These programs, led by industry experts, are more than mere presentations—they are interactive experiences where participants can engage directly with thought leaders, ask pressing questions, and gain actionable insights. This interactive format ensures that the information presented is theoretical, practical, and applicable to your operations. It facilitates a deeper understanding and encourages exchanging ideas, fostering an environment ripe for knowledge sharing and innovation. 

The value of these educational sessions lies not only in the information they impart but also in their potential for professional growth. By participating, attendees can uncover new strategies that streamline their operations, enhance productivity, and ultimately improve their bottom line. Moreover, networking opportunities abound, allowing professionals to connect with peers and potential collaborators, thus opening doors to new partnerships and ventures. These sessions are about learning, growing professionally, and taking your career to the next level. 

As the dairy industry evolves, staying informed about the latest advancements and best practices is crucial. Cremona’s educational seminars provide this knowledge and inspire attendees to apply it to their operations, driving personal and industry-wide progress. Are you prepared to harness this knowledge and propel yourself toward a future of enhanced dairy production and success? 

Sponsored by:

Inspiring Tomorrow’s Agricultural Visionaries: Cultivating Future Leaders through Dynamic Programs

Inspiring the next wave of agricultural innovators is crucial for the sustainability and advancement of dairy farming. Programs like the ‘On the Way to Cremona’ competition and the coveted Beltrami Plaque have been established. These initiatives engage young minds and provide invaluable experiences that lay the groundwork for their professional futures. 

The ‘On the Way to Cremona’ competition is more than just a platform; it’s a launching pad for students in their final academic years to dive into practical, real-world agricultural challenges. By participating, they gain hands-on experience, often a decisive factor in shaping their career paths and igniting a lifelong passion for agriculture. 

On the other hand, the Beltrami Plaque symbolizes recognition of emerging talents in the agricultural sector. Its role goes beyond accolades, serving as a beacon highlighting budding agricultural leaders’ ingenuity and potential. Award recipients often find their prospects bolstered, enabling them to innovate and expand their skills meaningfully. 

Investing in these young professionals is investing in the future of dairy farming. It ensures continuous innovation and leadership within the industry, fostering an environment where new ideas thrive, and the legacy of agriculture is preserved and enhanced. By nurturing future leaders today, the dairy sector can face the challenges of tomorrow with renewed vigor and creativity.

Diversity in Action: Women’s Growing Role in Shaping the Future of Agriculture

As the industry looks toward a more inclusive future, the Cremona exhibition stands at the forefront, recognizing diversity’s pivotal role in driving agricultural innovation. A concerted effort is underway to highlight and support the critical contributions of women in agriculture, a sector historically dominated by men. This commitment is symbolic and an active endeavor to reshape the industry’s landscape, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued. 

The exhibition celebrates the achievements of women farmers, acknowledging their growing influence and leadership in agriculture. The event lays the groundwork for diverse perspectives essential for evolving farming practices by fostering an environment that promotes equality and inclusivity. By tapping into a broader spectrum of ideas and expertise, such efforts ensure that the dairy industry becomes more innovative and resilient. 

Programs and seminars that examine and understand women’s unique challenges in this field offer invaluable insights. These platforms facilitate dialogue and encourage knowledge exchange, helping build a supportive community where women can thrive as agricultural professionals. This inclusive approach is vital for fostering a sense of solidarity and paving the way toward a more equitable industry where innovation flourishes through diversity.

The Bottom Line

The 79th International Livestock Exhibitions in Cremona emerges as a pivotal gathering for dairy industry stakeholders worldwide. It seamlessly blends tradition with groundbreaking innovations, inviting participants to witness firsthand the evolution of dairy farming technology and practices. Engaging with over 800 distinguished cattle and participating in expert-led workshops offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain insights and expand professional horizons. 

This event is not merely an exhibition but a hub of learning and networking, providing attendees with the tools and connections needed to propel their careers and businesses forward. By integrating the knowledge and innovative solutions showcased at Cremona, dairy professionals can stay ahead of industry trends, enhance their operations, and secure a competitive edge in the market. The question remains: will you join this transformative experience and contribute to shaping the future of dairy farming?

Key Takeaways:

• The 79th International Livestock Exhibitions of Cremona is a pivotal event for insights into the future of dairy farming.
• Features a diverse range of top-tier dairy breeds, highlighting advancements in genetics and breeding practices.
• Judging by renowned expert Nathan Thomas signals strong emphasis on excellence and tradition in dairy farming.
• Innovation Alley showcases cutting-edge technologies aimed at transforming dairy farming operations.
• Educational programs offer in-depth insights into industry trends, enhancing knowledge and fostering growth.
• Focus on youth engagement and acknowledging women’s contributions highlights diversity and the future of agriculture.
• Attendees will have the opportunity to network, gain new ideas, and implement innovative strategies in their own operations.

Summary:

The 79th International Livestock Exhibitions of Cremona, scheduled for November 28 to 30, 2024, is a pivotal event for dairy farmers and industry professionals. It blends tradition with innovation by showcasing over 800 elite cattle breeds, including Holstein, Red Holstein, Jersey, and Bruna. Renowned judge Nathan Thomas will highlight the commitment to breeding excellence. Attendees will explore technological advancements at “Innovation Alley,” featuring milking machines, genetic engineering, and precision farming tools aimed at revolutionizing dairy farming. The event offers over 70 educational programs, covering topics from breeding methods to dairy economics, fostering networking and inspiring future agricultural leaders. With a focus on diversity, it also acknowledges women’s growing contributions to agriculture, emphasizing a shift towards a more sustainable industry. This exhibition is more than a show—it’s a strategic opportunity to stay ahead of farming trends and inspire progressive change.

Learn more:

• Navigate the World Dairy Expo Like a Pro: The Ultimate Guide for Dairy Enthusiasts
• The Stars Shine at the 2014 World Dairy Expo
• Expo Bulle 2024: The Swiss National Holstein Show That Set New Standards

Join the Revolution!

Bullvine Daily is your essential e-zine for staying ahead in the dairy industry. With over 30,000 subscribers, we bring you the week’s top news, helping you manage tasks efficiently. Stay informed about milk production, tech adoption, and more, so you can concentrate on your dairy operations. 

US tennis player Billie King said it best when she told a faltering player on her Federation Cup team that, “Pressure is a privilege”. 

And, yesterday in the WDE stadium, the big dogs – who know exactly what the nuance within that statement means – came out to play in the National Jersey Show. 

Judge Ryan Krohlow (Poynette, Wisconsin) and his associate Jean Philippe Charest, (Saint Alexandre, Quebec, Canada) worked through 375-head (223 juniors, 98 intermediates, and 54 senior cows). 

Stoney Point Joel Bailey
1st Place Mature Cow
International Jersey Show 2024
Vierra Dairy Farms

When it came down to the pointy end of the day, the 2023 defending Grand Champion, Stoney Point Joel Bailey (Vierra Dairy Farms Hilmar, CA), hit the ring and won the six years and over class – right after the crowd watched the classy winning five-year-old, Spring View Joel Kinsley – from Budjon Farms and Peter & Lyn Vail (Lomira, WI). 

Spring View Joel Kinsley
1st Place Five Year Old
International Jersey Show 2024
Budjon Farms and Peter & Lyn Vail

Both cows were on-point, and they were both backed by exceptional pit crews who were primed to make judge Krohlow’s job as hard as they could. 

Bailey had to beat seven entries in her class, and Kinsley took on 18-head. Judge Krohlow appeared to have the time of his life making the big calls, and he never hesitated – outside of his emotional thank you speech – as he revealed the top-three of the show.

“It’s been unbelievable – by far the best that I can ever remember here – and I want to thank the boys in the barn because they get the cattle out,” judge Krohlow said.

“I know how much work it takes, and what a long day it is. The fitting was second to none this week. The way these three cows stand out in the ring with those long, beautiful heads and necks, how dairy they are, and how they stand so square on both front and rear feet, while being so comfortable for how much milk they’ve got on. They are as good as it gets.”

Bailey a two-time Grand

Vierra Dairy’s Stoney Point Joel Bailey successfully defended her title, taking Grand for the second time. It is the fifth successive time that Vierra Dairy has shown Grand Champion Jersey at WDE.

2024: Stoney Point Joel Bailey

2023: Stoney Point Joel Bailey

2022: Rivendale VIP Eloise

2021: Bri-Lin Valson Spritz

2020: No show

2019: Bri-Lin Valson Spritz

Speaking on behalf of Vierra Dairy, Jennifer Thomas said the win was exciting and she confirmed that Bailey is back in-calf for 2025. 

“It may be the fifth time Vierra have had Grand, but we never take it for granted because there is such tremendous quality here, and you know that any cow can come out on any day here, and be the right one,” Jennifer said.

“It was an incredible show all the way down the line. That five-year-old class was amazing.”

She described Bailey as a “true-type model type of cow”, who was a no-fuss individual to get ready. She said they liked their cows to be resilient, and able to hold their own at the farm. Bailey is that cow. She showed with a ring in her nose, because she also likes to get her own way.

“She can sometimes have a Jersey moment and lose her manners,” Jennifer smiled. 

With 34-head in their string, Vierra Dairy’s team looked more like a small-town heading into the ring for the champion team photos. Jennifer said it was important they joined the celebration.

“We always make sure that the team can come down to watch Grand because they work really hard, and we want them to be part of it. We’re all friends – family really – and we all have a good time. We have people and friends who have helped us for like 14 years, in addition to our young people.”

She said that every win was special in its own way, but the first ones remain deeply etched in their memory banks.

Jennifer and her husband, Nathan, run Triple-T Holsteins, milking 35 head at their Ohio property. Their work includes Vierra’s show cows, which the couple manage for the Californian dairy operation.

“Vierra are great people, and this is a relationship that has grown from one cow to where it is today. When you work this closely with people and you trust them, you do become family.”  

More than one high point

For Budjon’s Kelli Cull the day was exciting on several levels. The obvious one was that she led the winning five-year-old and Reserve Grand, Spring View Joel Kinsley. 

“What a day,” Kelli said. “It was amazing. When you can come out and win a class like that [five-year-old], that (to me) is incredible. I’m so happy for my team, and I appreciate everybody who helps us at home and at the show. 

Budjon Farms and Peter & Lyn Vail (Lomira, WI) bought Kinsley for $41,000 at the Kueffner Holstein and Jerseys’ July 2023 South Mountain Sale.

“When I walked into the class, she just felt so good. I knew they liked her, and – not to take that for granted – I really felt like she floated out there today. 

“But you never take that for granted when you’re in this business. It is deep water, and I think the show keeps getting better and better every year. 

“Whether you’re breeding them or buying them, if you can get in the top-five or the top-three here, anything after that is a huge bonus in my opinion.” 

She acknowledged Vierra for the energy it brings to the show.

“We are also happy for Vierra Dairy with Grand. They have tremendous cows and just to be Reserve to them is incredible.”

Both cows could be back

Kelli confirmed that Kinsley is carrying a heifer sired by the reserve premier sire, River Valley Victorious-ET. 

It means these two top cows could potentially be at the same venue doing the same thing in 12 months.

“It feels like the stars are aligning for her, I think her best days are still ahead of her,”

Kelli said.

The more subtle levels of excitement for Kelli came from the junior three-year-old class.

She said it was gratifying to have bred the second and third-placed animals respectively, Budjon-Vail Victorious Blayke-ET (owned by Ron & Christy Ratliff Trustees & Gettle Mason & Jaxson, Garnett, KS) and Budjon-Vail Andreas Dakota-ET (owned by Budjon Farms and Peter & Lyn Vail, Lomira, WI)

“Honestly watching that class [25-head], and how great it was made it such an honour to finish second and third. Then to come out with Kinsley in the five-year-old, which I also thought was one of the best classes of the day.”

The Honourable Mention Grand was the winning senior three-year-old and Intermediate Champion, GMBV Joel Dixie-ET (Milk Source Genetics Kaukauna, WI). 

Judge Krohlow acknowledged Dixie’s breed character “all the way throughout” in his comments for Intermediate Champion. 

“She’s a touch crisper through the top and I also prefer the way she blends through the pelvic bone right back through that tailhead. And, like I said in her class, the overall quality right through her mammary system.”

The Junior Champion (and Junior Champion Bred and Owned) emerged from a deep junior show that collectively numbered 223 entries. Schulte Bros Colton Fallon was exhibited by David Hoese and Schulte Bros from Glencoe, MN in the Summer Yearling class, that numbered 48-head.

Pacific Edge from Tillmook, OR was the Premier Breeder after a strong day across the board.

See complete results.

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Bullvine Daily is your essential e-zine for staying ahead in the dairy industry. With over 30,000 subscribers, we bring you the week’s top news, helping you manage tasks efficiently. Stay informed about milk production, tech adoption, and more, so you can concentrate on your dairy operations. 

Uncover the truth about global dairy prices. Are farmers getting their fair share compared to consumer costs? Dive in to find out.

Have you ever considered the global nature of the dairy market, where the milk you work so hard to make is priced differently in New Zealand than in the United States? Or why do European customers pay far more for milk than you, a devoted dairy farmer, receive? This is a crucial issue that unites everybody in the dairy sector, whether they milk cows in Denmark or operate a dairy farm in Argentina. This post will delve deep into the global dairy business, comparing consumer pricing to dairy farmers’ incomes in various nations. The difference between consumer pricing and farmer revenues may be staggering. Still, it’s a shared experience that can help dairy producers make better judgments by understanding the nuances of the market.

The Global Dairy Market: A Landscape of Significant Disparities

The worldwide dairy market has considerable discrepancies. Do you ever wonder why? Let’s dig in.

For example, the typical gallon of milk costs roughly $3.50 in the United States. In comparison, the same quantity of milk costs around $4.00 in England. In the southern hemisphere, Australians spend about $4.50 for a gallon of milk. Brazil now captures our interest with a much lower price, about $2.90 per gallon.

These figures provide essential details regarding regional economic situations, agricultural methods, and consumer buying power. For example, more excellent prices in Australia and England may be due to more onerous restrictions and higher manufacturing costs. Meanwhile, Brazil’s cheaper prices may be attributed to different subsidy schemes and reduced regulatory expenses.

Bridging the Dairy Price Divide: Why Do Farmers Get Paid So Little While Consumers Pay So Much?

Now, let’s look at an essential part of the dairy industry: the disparity between what farmers are paid and what customers pay at the supermarket. Have you ever wondered why this gap exists?

Consider the United States, where farmers earn roughly $18 per hundredweight of milk, or around $1.. In contrast, buyers spend over $3.50 for the same gallon at the store. This gap is mainly attributable to production, packing, shipping expenses, and merchant markup.

In Australia, the situation is similar. Dairy producers earn around AUD 0.47 per liter of milk, but consumers spend AUD 1. Again, intermediaries and added charges boost consumer prices, resulting in a large discrepancy.

England provides another noteworthy situation. Dairy farmers make about £0.30 per liter, but consumers spend £0. The markup includes fees for transportation, retail, and other value-adds.

In Brazil, dairy producers earn around BRL 1.50 per liter, whereas the retail price is roughly BRL 3. The dichotomy between production costs and consumer pricing is evident in these cases.

Why are these gaps critical? Because they illustrate the difficulties dairy farmers have in benefitting from their work while consumers pay a premium. How can we overcome this divide so that both sides benefit? Food for thinking, indeed.

Unearthing the Reasons Behind Global Dairy Price Discrepancies

Why are there pricing disparities in the first place? Several important factors are at play here. One crucial factor is manufacturing costs. Feed, labor, and equipment prices vary significantly among countries. For example, feed prices in Brazil are comparatively inexpensive compared to nations like Canada and the United States, where high-quality feed costs more. The cost discrepancy impacts farmers’ ability to charge higher rates for their dairy products.

Another significant effect is government policy. Subsidies, import taxes, and export incentives may substantially impact dairy prices. Consider the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). It offers subsidies to keep European farmers’ prices steady and competitive, unlike the more laissez-faire approach used by nations such as Australia.

Finally, market demand plays a significant role. Consumer tastes and buying power vary significantly per country. Premium dairy products are in greater demand in areas such as the United States and Canada, allowing producers to charge higher prices. Lower prices predominate in nations where economic restrictions restrict consumer spending. According to a 2022 estimate, Western European consumers spend almost 20% more on dairy than South American customers. Understanding these market dynamics can help dairy producers make informed decisions about their products and pricing strategies.

These variables combine to produce a dynamic environment where dairy product prices may fluctuate substantially from one region of the globe to another. Have you observed these discrepancies in your own country? How do they influence your everyday decisions?

Global Case Studies: The Struggles of Dairy Farmers Across Continents

To highlight these differences, consider the experiences of dairy producers from many different places throughout the globe.

Brazil: The disparity between what dairy producers make and what customers pay is stark in Brazil. According to a study by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, Brazilian farmers earn around $0.30 per liter of milk. In comparison, consumers spend about $1.10 per liter. Despite Brazil being one of the world’s greatest milk producers, this disparity shows how much intermediaries inflate prices, leaving farmers with little profit.

England: The situation there follows a similar trend. Farmers in the UK earn roughly £0.28 (approx. $0.38) for each liter of milk they produce. In contrast, the average retail price is around £0.89 (approx. $1.21) per liter. British dairy producers have regularly expressed worry about these margins, with many unable to meet production expenses.

Australia: Australian dairy producers face issues comparable to those of their colleagues in Brazil and England. They earn around AUD 0.40 (about. $0.28) per liter of milk, whereas customers spend around AUD 1.50 (approx. $1.06) per liter. The volatility of milk prices owing to variable demand and supply situations exacerbates financial insecurity for Australian producers.

Canada: The dairy industry’s supply management system in Canada’s four western provinces seeks to stabilize farmers’ earnings. Dairy producers here earn roughly CAD 0.75 (approx. $0.56) per liter, while consumers pay around CAD 1.95 (approx. $1.46) per liter. Although this method is helpful in specific ways, it has raised discussion about its effect on consumer costs.

The dairy market in the United States is another one-of-a-kind example. American dairy producers generally earn $0.18 per liter of milk. Surprisingly, retail costs vary greatly per area but average about $0.89 per liter nationally. The discrepancy is impacted by complicated agricultural policy and production size, which have left many small-scale dairy producers suffering.

These case studies have a similar thread: dairy farmers globally often face an uphill struggle, obtaining just a fraction of the consumer price despite their critical position in the supply chain. The causes for these disparities are diverse and include economic systems, agricultural policy, and market needs. Understanding these relationships is critical for lobbying for more equitable remuneration systems for farmers worldwide.

The Bottom Line

As previously discussed, there are significant inequalities in the worldwide dairy market. The substantial differences in the prices dairy farmers earn, what customers pay, and the various problems farmers confront across continents demonstrate that a complicated web of causes is at work. Multiple factors, including market dynamics, government regulations, and differing manufacturing costs, cause these differences.

So, how does this affect the future of dairy farming? Is the existing system sustainable, or does it need a complete revamp to guarantee equitable compensation for farmers and appropriate consumer prices? This issue begs for action, asking that we go further into knowing the actual cost of our dairy products. As consumers and industry stakeholders, how can we overcome this gap to promote fairness and sustainability in the dairy business?

Think about that the next time you grab a carton of milk or a piece of cheese. Your decisions may influence dairy farmers’ livelihoods throughout the globe. Will you assist in driving change?

Key Takeaways

• Consumers often pay high prices for dairy products despite farmers earning relatively low wages.
• On average, farmers earn about $18 per hundredweight, while consumers spend over $3.50 per gallon.
• Factors contributing to price disparities include regional economic conditions, agricultural practices, and consumer purchasing power.
• Manufacturing costs and government policies, such as the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy, significantly impact dairy prices.
• Market demand in countries like the US and Canada drives consumer prices.
• Dairy farmers globally face inequalities, necessitating advocacy for fairer pay systems.

Summary

Have you ever wondered why the milk you buy at the store costs so much while you hear stories of dairy farmers barely scraping by? Let’s take a global tour to uncover the stark contrasts in dairy pricing. We’ll explore what consumers pay versus what farmers receive across different countries and why these discrepancies exist. Stick around to discover why this imbalance persists and what can be done to bridge the gap. Farmers earn about $18 per hundredweight of milk, while consumers spend over $3.50 for the same gallon. Regional economic situations, agricultural methods, and consumer buying power are significant in these disparities. Manufacturing costs differ between countries, and government policies like the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy impact dairy prices. Market demand in the US and Canada leads to higher consumer prices. Dairy farmers worldwide face market inequalities, with price differences and issues across continents. Understanding these relationships is crucial for advocating for fairer pay systems for farmers globally.

Learn more:

• Why Milk Costs More but Dairy Farmers Earn Less: The Global Dairy Dilemma
• The February Dairy Supply and Utilization report from the USDA revealed market secrets
• US Dairy Farmers’ Revenue and Expenditure rose slightly in March

I always love heading to Quebec.  From seeing Patrice Biron, the former Holstein Canada President that I spent  summers trying to learn French from, to the memories of St. Huberts and my trip with my father, sister and David Houck, the legendary manager from Rommandale Farms, where I would pull the seat release causing his chair to go flying back, earning me the nickname “my worst enemy” from David (I guess some things never change…read more: The Bullvine- Wanted Dead or Alive), I just loved making those memories. .  While my French still is not as good as it could be, and David is no longer with us, my enjoyment of Quebec will never change.  One thing that is for sure a constant is how great the Quebec people are and the passion they have for the dairy breed.

There is something to be said about how Quebecer’s can put on a show.  Just like Cirque de Soleil and the Montreal Canadiens award ceremonies for former greats, Quebecer’s put on a show like none other.  Their hospitality and friendliness comes through no matter what language you speak.

The one thing that seems to unify them all is their passion for great dairy cattle.  And man do they have some great cattle.  Even as we walked through the barns before the show, previewing the sale consignments you knew that all this does not happen by accident.  It takes time, dedication and more importantly passion.  Passion that unites all, regardless of language

TAG You`re IT!

One place where there was no question that passion drives it all was attending the Trans America Genetics’ Genomic Giants sale.  This amazing sale averaged an outstanding $38,472 ((Read more: Genomic Giants Sale Averages an Outstanding $38,472).  With many of the top TPI and LPI animals in the world set to be offered you knew it was going to be very special (Read more: The Dairy Cattle Investor’s Guide to Spring Show Madness).  And while this may be a tamed down version of the show they put on in the fall sale, there was no question that it too was a great one.  One of the things I learned in speaking with Patrice and Natalie Simard, the passionate couple that helps drive TAG`s success, is that 3 of the top sellers were a result of their breeding programs.  As we talked more, I learned about just how well thought out their strategy is and how they are really thinking about how to take things to new level.  It`s passion and attention to detail that has helped them to attract new investors, the most recent of which are not from the dairy industry, but rather people who see  the great business plan combined with the passion and have decided to invest in TAG.  Outstanding!!!! Love to see new money coming into the industry.

Grand Champion: Wendon Goldwyn Allie, 1st mature cow, Ferme Rayon d’Or
Res. Grand Champion: Ms Goldwyn Alana, 1st 5-year-old, Pierre Boulet
HM Grand Champion: Desnette Alexia Roseplex, 1st Sr. 3-year-old, Yvon Sicard, Desnette Holstein

Great Cattle Unite Us All

Donald Dubois showing Ms Pride Gold Invite 761 1st 4yr old

There is just something special about attending a dairy cattle show in Quebec.  The quality of cattle is always outstanding and the people truly passionate. This guarantees that the experience something you will never forget.  From the Red and White show on Wednesday that made up for its small classes with outstanding quality (Read more: Quebec Spring Red & White Show Results) to the Holstein Show on Thursday (Read more: Quebec Spring Holstein Show Results) that had milking cow classes  in excess of 25 animals , the heart of dairy cattle showing in Canada is certainly in Quebec.  One great thing to see was Donald Dubois, winner of the  showman Breeder’s Choice awards (Read more: The Winners of the 2012 Breeder’s Choice Awards are…) in the ring.  Donald is truly one of the greats and was in fine form at the show.

From the first class of the day, highlighted by Pierstein Gold Chip Rockstar who won the Sr. Calf class and  went on to become Honorable Junior Champion and who will sell in the Canadian National Convention Sale (Read more: National Convention Sale), you knew the classes were going to be deep and have tons of quality.  Handling this was none other than the living legend Marc Comtois.  While there isn’t anything Marc has not accomplished in the industry, it was great to see Marc working in the ring, passing on his considerable experience to his son Steve, who has now become a partner in Comestar. Holsteins.

Great uncle Carl Saucier and the 3rd generation ferme Jacobs having fun at Quebec Spring Show.

Speaking of passing it on to the next generation, anyone attending the show had to be touched by some of the special moments from young ferme Jacobs these cute kids.  And if the picture from the Premier Breeders presentation is any indication, it is certainly a family affair (Read more: Ferme Jacobs – Success is all in the family!).

Watching Marc handle the mature cow class that came down to a battle between two greats Wendon Goldwyn Allie and Boulet Goldwyn Chalou reminded me of when Marc judged the Royal and had to choose between two legends Acme Star Lily and Rainyridge Tony Beauty.  Just like on that November back in 1999, Marc handled the situation with class and diligence, thoroughly going over them and ultimately choosing Allie for the win. Just like 1999 the mature cow class winner went on to be Grand, the same way Lily had.

The Bottom Line

We all face many challenges in the dairy industry and there is a great deal of uncertainty in some areas these days.  A quick visit to Quebec will show you that as long as you have passion for cattle, it doesn’t matter what language you speak or problems you face. Let your heart drive you and your head guide you and success is sure to follow.

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