Farmers across Wisconsin and the world are working hard to persevere through challenges in the industry and remain sustainable for years to come. Tina Hinchley, a dairy farmer from Cambridge, utilizes advancements in technology to do just that. She utilizes robotic milkers on her farm and is in the process of adding solar.
“There is a lot going on on the farm we have in Cambridge,” says Hinchley. “First off, we are excited that our daughter Anna is with us on the farm full-time after graduating a few years ago. Along with milking our cows robotically, the technology that’s out there is what is carrying us through.”
During 2023, Hinchley’s Dairy Farm will be accessing solar contracts that are going to be going in their area where the farm is located. They are participating in the Koshkonong Solar Energy Center Project with a large portion of their 2,600 acres being used for solar. Hinchley says they only need about 400 acres to feed their cows so this project allows them some diversification to their income.
“This is a great opportunity for my daughter as she will not have to worry about where the next paycheck is coming from,” adds Hinchley. “The dairy industry is very volatile and with having solar in our backyard, it provides us with a sustainable income but it also provides sustainable energy not only for our community but throughout Wisconsin.”
Hinchley has been providing farm tours for over 25 years and bringing business to her community. She believes it is part of her sustainability as well and that even though there will be solar now, they still have to maintain their nutrient management plans and precision planting.
While Hinchley is excited for this opportunity, some members of the community are not as happy. Hinchley says that she believes once things are up and running, people will see the direct benefit the solar panels can provide for everyone.
Hinchley is also an advocate for migrant labor workers in the dairy industry. In Wisconsin alone, there are over 7,000 Hispanic workers that are vital to making dairy operations run smoothly.
“I think that they deserve citizenship,” says Hinchley. “As time goes on and we realize our seniors are aging out, the need for extra people coming in is essential. We would not be America’s Dairyland without them.”
Hinchley suggests for farm families who have next generations taking on the farm duties to analyze where they are now and what can be done for the future. She suggests working together now to update the farm and make it more sustainable for them to get into.
Hinchley adds, “Another thing to do is recognize the opportunities for diversification. Check out the grants that are available and new technologies that are available. Don’t shut the door because you don’t understand. Ask questions and embrace what’s ahead.”
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