In today’s ever-evolving agricultural landscape, the concept of progressive farming is more than just a buzzword. It’s a mantra for forward-thinking dairy producers. At the National Milk Producers Federation Young Cooperators Progressive panel, held live at World Dairy Expo, four exemplary dairy farmers shared their unique perspectives on what it means to embody progressiveness in the modern dairy industry.
Continuous Improvement and Innovation
Megan Schrupp, co-owner of NexGen Dairy, emphasizes being progressive is all about continuous improvement. Her philosophy of always striving for betterment resonates deeply within the third-generation family farm in Eden Valley, Minn., which she owns with her husband, Tim. By asking fundamental questions about their practices and leveraging new ideas and technology, NexGen Dairy remains at the forefront of innovation.
Milking 1,200 Jersey and Jersey-cross cows, NexGen Dairy not only focuses on producing high-component milk for cheddar cheese but also prioritizes sustainability by using solar power to offset energy needs. Moreover, as a practicing dairy veterinarian, Schrupp ensures integration of advanced technologies to optimize cow health and comfort, embodying a commitment to improvement while upholding traditional values.
“The longer we’re involved, the faster it changes. So, being current and looking for that and asking ourselves, ‘Why do we do what we do? Is it always because we’ve done it?’” she says.
Embracing Technological Advances
Ron Fowler, a first-generation dairy farmer from Michigan, candidly shares he never considered himself progressive. Yet, his farm’s adoption of robotic milking systems and innovative soybean roasting techniques tells a different story. For Fowler, progressiveness means doing better each year, focusing on improving efficiency, animal care and sustainability across the 500 acres of land he manages with his family.
“I never considered myself progressive,” he says. “But here I am milking with robots and roasting my own [soy]beans,” he says. “Our pursuit of progressiveness has just been to do better than we did last year. We strive to do the best we can with each unit we have, whether it be a cow or an acre.”
The Triad of People, Animals and Environment
Laura Raatz, a co-owner and herd manager at Wagner Farms Inc. in Wisconsin, described progressive dairy farming as an ongoing journey of adaption and improvement. The farm’s guiding principles — focusing on people, animals and the environment — ensure a culture of investment in the team and continuous enhancement of animal welfare and land stewardship.
“Our farm motto is people, animals, environment. So, we break everything down with those three pillars. For us, it’s creating a culture and investing in our team. Because if our team isn’t thriving, our farm isn’t thriving either. I also think it’s continually improving the care for our animals. Right now, we’re utilizing a lot with technology and different practices. We’re really focusing on cow comfort, and we truly believe that with healthy animals comes higher quality milk, and then we’re also looking at how our practices are truly affecting our land and our environment and preparing for the next generation,” she says.
Innovation on the Farm
Joel Eigenbrood shares a similar outlook, underlining the necessity of questioning existing practices and seeking better methods. As the chief financial officer for multiple dairies in Michigan, Eigenbrood’s commitment to innovation led his family farm to develop a 50' wide hay mower, effectively doubling their productivity. His experience in dairy farm accounting and advisory roles further solidifies his position as a thought leader in both finance and innovation within the industry.
“There’s always better ways. Or at least, we need to know why we do it, what we do and how the way we do it,” he says.
In 2024, Joel was elected chairman of Foremost Farms USA, where he previously served as first vice chair. He also serves on the executive committee of the National Milk Producers Federation and on the board of the United Dairy Industry of Michigan.
Through the insights shared by these pioneering producers, it becomes clear progressive dairy farming is a dynamic blend of embracing change, leveraging technology and honoring essential values. As these leaders pave the way for future generations, their commitments to improvement and innovation remain crucial drivers of success in the dairy industry.
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