It’s no small task to keep a dairy herd healthy and productive — and we want to recognize producers whose practices give a shining example of commitment to putting dairy first. Each year, producers across the country are nominated for their excellent management and milk quality practices, as well as an overall commitment to the well-being of their dairy cows through the Dairy First Award.
Congratulations, 2024 Dairy First Award Winner — Kristin Quist!
Kristin Quist of Minglewood Inc. in Deer Park, Wisconsin, earned recognition in 2024 for her steadfast commitment to milk quality and animal well-being. Quist’s impressive milk management protocols, regular team meetings, communication, progressive use of technology and dedication to cow comfort set her apart from other leaders in the industry.
Minglewood’s “never satisfied” mentality has led to the implementation of several cutting-edge technologies over the years. In 2022, the farm installed the smaXtec bolus system to help monitor internal cow temperatures, water intake, rumination and activity levels. This system has allowed Quist to detect mastitis early, significantly reducing the farm's antibiotic use. Since 2018, the farm also added an eight-robot milking facility and an on-site sand separation system to further advance growth and sustainability.
We pride ourselves on producing clean, high-quality milk. Healthy cows and clean milk go hand in hand, and we’re always striving to improve.
2023 Dairy First Award Winner
Tom Wegner, Wegnerlann Dairy, Ettrick, Wisconsin
Tom Wegner stood out in 2023 as the dairy producer most deserving of recognition for his ongoing care and commitment to milk quality and herd well-being. Wegner prioritizes cow comfort with top-notch milking protocols, somatic cell count management, team communications, biannual employee training, and activity collars. His devotion to caring for his cows is evident to everyone who visits Wegnerlann.
2022 Dairy First Award Winner
Jake Peissig, MTP Farms, Dorchester, Wisconsin
Jake Peissig received the inaugural Dairy First award in 2022 in recognition for his best-in-class animal welfare and milk quality practices. Peissig implemented selective dry cow therapy, culture-based mastitis treatment protocols, vaccination, and rumination and activity collars to ensure his herd receives the best care.
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