Dairy innovation in Wisconsin means many things. These days it ranges from robotic milking systems to cutting-edge feed technology, and modern cheese production. Farms, businesses, and manufacturing facilities across the state are embracing and using the newest tools available. And it’s helping push these industries forward, fast.
If you’ve been looking for an opportunity to see how new technology and management practices are shaping cow care, labor efficiency, nutrition, and overall farm productivity, FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative is hosting three Innovation Roadshows across the state in August.
Each tour stop will highlight a different region of Wisconsin. It’s your chance to explore several dairy-focused operations while also learning directly from those using the latest innovations.
- The first roadshow takes place Monday, August 3, departing from Dodgeville by bus.
This tour includes stops at QLF Headquarters to learn about liquid feed supplements and research underway in the company’s agronomy greenhouse. You’ll also visit Winch’s Pine Grove Farm near Fennimore to see a DeLaval robotic milking system, along with Herd Navigator technology that provides real-time herd health information. The day ends at Meister Cheese in Muscoda, where visitors will tour the cheese plant and learn how innovations in whey processing are adding value throughout the dairy supply chain.
- The Thursday, August 13 roadshow begins in Seymour.
It will focus on dairy facilities and automation. Stops include Fox Cities Builders, a company specializing in dairy construction and retrofit projects, and Wichman Farms near Appleton for a firsthand view of robotic milking and automated calf feeding systems in action. The bus will also make a stop at Betley Farms near Pulaski. It’s where attendees can observe the early construction of a new 120-stall rotary milking parlor.
- The final tour on Wednesday, August 19, departs from Chippewa Falls.
This tour’s stops will include Golden Calf Company in Bloomer, where participants will learn about calf nutrition and management strategies. You’ll also visit the QLF Production Plant in Menomonie for a behind-the-scenes look at liquid feed manufacturing. The tour wraps up at VES-Artex in Chippewa Falls. You’ll see how the latest agricultural equipment is being designed and manufactured.
Each tour runs approximately six hours, with transportation provided by charter bus. Seating is limited, and advance registration is required.
Whether you are considering robotics, planning a facility upgrade or simply looking for fresh ideas, these Innovation Roadshows offer a unique opportunity to see the latest advances in Wisconsin’s dairy industry.
LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP HERE.
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