2023-10-26 11:00 am

MN Fall Pasture Walk | Chad Crowley Farm, 32979 Pier Ridge Rd, LaCrescent, MN

Open to the pubic.
Lunch will be served.
More info: Contact Angie Walter 320-815-9293 or angie@sfa-mn.org

2022-09-27 10:00 am

* NEW OHIO NRCS EVENT featuring PaddockTrac | Settlage & Settlage Farm, 12218 St. Rt 29, St Mary's, Ohio

This tour will focus on Settlage & Settlage Farm's incorporation of the PaddockTrac technology into their grazing management system. PaddockTrac is an innovative technology developed by researchers at the University of Missouri that uses and ATV-mounted sensor to measure forage availability.

Settlage & Settlage is a certified organic dairy milking 120 cows for Organic Valley on more than 300 acres of perennial and annual pasture.

2022-08-16 12:00 pm

Pasture Management, OAD and Fall Seasonal Calving on an All Forage Dairy | Bossie Cow Farm, W6174 County Rd. SS, Random Lake, WI 53075

Ricky is a DGA Journeygrazier. Together with his wife Thelma they took over Thelma's parents farm. Since then they built a parlor, went to OAD and fully fall seasonal calving. They also added ancillary, Direct-To-Consumer enterprises. Ricky will talk about their decision making process and their Pasture Management.

2022-08-02 11:00 am

2501: Intro to DGA Webinar | VIA Zoom (link sent once you've registered)

Learn more about the opportunities available as an Apprentice or farmer Mentor, as well as what managed grazing looks like on a dairy farm. Angie Sullivan, Apprenticeship Director and Altfrid Krusenbaum of Krusengrass Consulting will guide you through the DGA program, share opportunities and success stories, and describe what managed dairy grazing looks like in real life scenarios.

2022-07-16 10:00 am

Ohio Regenerative Grazing Pasture Walk | Canal Junction Farm, 18637 Rd 168, Defiance, OH

Farmers Ralph, Sheila & Kyle Schlatter.
This tour will be a pasture walk covering all aspects of the farm’s operations, including its dairy program, cheese, beef, lamb, pork, broiler chickens, eggs, and turkeys. Attendees will be able to shop in the farm store and learn about the farm’s buying club approach to direct marketing.

2022-06-16 10:00 am

Managing Organic Milk Quality on the Farm | Virtual Workshop

Cornell University Extension is offering a one day workshop by Extension Veterinarians and Animal Scientists to introduce attendees to the key raw milk parameters that influence organic dairy product quality and shelf-life and how to control these parameters on the farm. Prior to the live virtual course, registrants will complete a 2 hour pre-recorded self paced module to learn about four raw milk parameters that impact product quality: SCC, total bacteria, spore forming bacteria and flavor and odor profiles. The live workshop will teach how to control these parameters.

2021-12-16 10:00 am

Managing Organic Milk Quality on the Farm | Virtual Workshop

Cornell University Extension is offering a one day workshop by Extension Veterinarians and Animal Scientists to introduce attendees to the key raw milk parameters that influence organic dairy product quality and shelf-life and how to control these parameters on the farm. Prior to the live virtual course, registrants will complete a 2 hour pre-recorded self paced module to learn about four raw milk parameters that impact product quality: SCC, total bacteria, spore forming bacteria and flavor and odor profiles. The live workshop will teach how to control these parameters.

2021-07-02 01:00 pm

WI DGA Pasture Walk - Van Langen Dairy Farm | Ron & Ester Van Langen Farm 122001 Chesak Rd, Edgar, WI 54426

Ron and Ester Van Langen are hosting an afternoon pasture walk featuring their managed grazing, robotic milking dairy enterprise. The Van Langen’s own 440 acres, and rent 95 acres. With approximately 350 in pastures and another 90 acres for cropland. Their crossbred herd of 140 includes 130 milking cows.
Growing up in the Netherlands, where they also previously farmed until 2008, the Van Langens have incorporated some European haying, also the no till seeding, green chopping, and the way they feed their cows (no TMR). We will have the opportunity to see this robotic milking facility and tour the farm to see their grazing practices.

2021-06-22

Soil Health Academy @ DGA Farm | Derek Schmitz Farm - 25113 Cty Rd 50, Cold Spring, MN 56230

Soil Health Academy is going to be put on at Derek Schmitz’s farm 25113 County Rd. 50 Cold Spring, MN, 56320. This is a 3-day event taking place June 22-24. Derek is a Master Grazier in our program. SFA is offering a discount to members who would like to attend the SHA. I have attached a flyer with more information

2021-05-21

MN Apprentice Field Day | Redhead Creamery - 31535 463rd Ave, Brooten, MN 56316

Apprentice field day for anyone interested in learning more about making their own cheese products. This will be held at Redhead Creamery 31535 463rd Ave, Brooten, MN 56316. The informational session goes from 2:30-4:45. We will be meeting for lunch before the event around 12:30-1:00. This is open to apprentices and apprentice candidates. We are limited to 10 participants so I would need to have pre-registration ahead of time with me. Email: angie@sfa-mn.org Phone: 320-815-9293.

2021-05-18

Minnesota SFA/DGA Pasture Walk | Nathan Vergin's Farm - 13300 Green Acres Drive, St Charles, MN 55972

On Nathan Vergin’s farm on May 18, 2021. Address is 13300 Green Acres Drive St. Charles, MN 55972. The walk will be held from 11:00 am-2:00 pm. Lunch will be included. The walk is free of charge and COVID protocols will be in place to keep everyone safe. Jared Luhman, SFA soil health lead, will be talking about recent soil testing and how that relates to farming/grazing cattle. We will also be discussing cover crops and weed control. Pre-registration is required at www.sfa-mn.org/events.

2020-10-09 11:00 am

MN Late Fall Pasture Walk | Seven Pines Farm and Fence, 18618 Co. Rd. 23, Verndale, MN

The topics we will cover will include: bale grazing during the winter months, outwintering cows and youngstock, and how to stockpile pastures for winter. Registration is free but it is required ahead of time. We will limit this to 20 participants to follow appropriate social distancing guidelines. There will be sanitizer and masks available if needed. A box lunch from a local establishment will be provided.

2020-09-29

CANCELLED - World Dairy Expo 2020 | Alliant Energy Center, Madison, WI

World Dairy Expo 2020 has been cancelled. Following a meeting between World Dairy Expo’s officers and general manager, Alliant Energy Center leadership, and officials from Public Health Madison & Dane County, it has been determined, based on the national CDC guidelines and Dane County restrictions related to COVID-19, which include the Alliant Energy Center, a county owned facility, holding World Dairy Expo in 2020 is not feasible.

2020-09-24 11:00 am

MN Fall Pasture Walk | Valley View Dairy, 2889 30th St. NW, Maple Lake, MN

The topics we will cover will include: ways to decrease fly pressure, maximizing tonnage off of pastures, and minimizing component loss in dairy cattle during the summer grazing months. Registration is free but it is required ahead of time. We will limit this to 20 participants to follow appropriate social distancing guidelines. There will be sanitizer and masks available if needed. A box lunch from a local establishment will be provided.

2020-09-02 11:00 am

MN Fall Pasture Walk | Derek Schmitz Farm, 25113 County Rd 50, Cold Spring, MN 56320

The topics we will cover will include: diverse cover crops for grazing cows, harvesting cover crops, raising replacement calves on nanny cows and soil health. Registration is free but it is required ahead of time. We will limit this to 20 participants to follow appropriate social distancing guidelines. There will be sanitizer and masks available if needed. A box lunch from a local establishment will be provided.

2020-08-20 01:00 pm

MN Pasture Walk: Temporary Fence Tips & Tricks for Managed Grazing | Walter Organic Family Farm, 11034 110th St, Villard, MN

The event will be led by SFA Senior Technical Advisor Kent Solberg and myself. This pasture walk will be limited to 10 participants to follow appropriate social distancing guidelines. There will be sanitizer and masks available if needed. Registration is free for current SFA members and $40/nonmembers.

2020-05-31 02:00 pm

SFA Drive-Through Farm Tour | 27725 Business 23, Paynesville, MN

SFA and Voss Farms are hosting a drive-through farm tour from 2 to 4 p.m. Sun., May 31, at 27725 Business 23, Paynesville. Participants will drive through Voss Farms (above) to learn about animals and animal health, food from the farm and soil health.

SFA soil health experts Kent Solberg and Doug Voss will lead socially distanced discussion at the drive-through field day May 31 at Voss Farms in Paynesville.

An audio recording will be available for download to listen to as you visit each station along the tour. As soon as it is available, a notice will be sent out to registrants.

Activities for kids, teens and adults will be incorporated into the tour, so bring the whole family. There will be an opportunity for socially distanced small group discussion with SFA soil health experts Kent Solberg and Doug Voss after the tour.

To keep the flow of traffic moving and limit the number of vehicles at the farm at one time, we are asking you to sign up the the time that works best for you. The tour will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Registration is required in order to maintain good traffic control.

2020-05-28 12:00 pm

PASA Grass Fed Genetics Webinar | Online

Join PASA for a presentation and conversation with organic, grass-fed dairy farmer Ron Holter, of Frederick County, Maryland, as he attempts to answer this question. Ron will present on his multi-generational grazing dairy farm in Maryland, including his work developing grass-fed genetics for his herd and others. Ron has been grazing cows since 1995 and certified organic since 2005. He began line-breeding in his herd in 2006, and developed his first bull for marketing grass-fed genetics the same year he transitioned to 100% grass on the farm, in 2007.

2020-01-17

24th Annual Vermont Grazing & Livestock Conference | Lake Morey Resort, Fairlee, VT

The 24th Annual Vermont Grazing and Livestock Conference will return to Lake Morey Resort in Fairlee, Vermont on January 17-18. The event is for farmers to learn about grazing essentials, soil health, advanced sheep and cattle genetics, pastured pork, current research and other practices - and enjoy the opportunity to network with fellow farmers.

This year’s theme is Finding Balance in a Time of Change, and the conference content will address that through presentations on specific on-farm practices, current research findings, and a focus on social sustainability. We are excited to host the New Face of Farming young farmers panel, and a chance to dig in to niche products with some creative local producers.

Keynote speaker Jason Rowntree will present Saturday, January 18, 2020 on current research findings about the role of grazing livestock in mitigating climate change and sequestering carbon on farms in the Northern US. Other workshop topics include hay field renovation, beef profitability, sheep and cattle genetics, and custom grazing.

2020-01-09

Minnesota Organic Conference | River's Edge Convention Center Saint Cloud, MN

The Minnesota Organic Conference will be held January 9-10, 2020 in St. Cloud MN. A Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship panel is scheduled for Thursday, January 9 at 3:00 pm.

Each year, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture hosts this conference and trade show for farmers and others interested in organic agriculture. Join us for two days of networking, learning, and great food!

2019-12-17 01:30 pm

DGA Kickoff Meeting in Ohio | OEFFA Office 41 Croswell Rd Columbus, OH

The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) is bringing Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship (DGA) —the nation’s first formal farming apprenticeship—to Ohio!

Understand the benefits of hosting an apprentice
Learn how the DGA program educates apprentices and supports master farmers
Meet other dairy graziers

Tuesday December 17 1:30 – 3:30 PM
OEFFA Office 41 Croswell Rd. Columbus OH 43214

2019-12-02

Growing for the Future | Virtual Conference, National Farmers Union

NFU’s Growing for the Future is a unique online, interactive virtual conference focused on the issues that today’s farmers and ranchers face. DGA is sponsoring this event, which will take place Dec 2-5, 2018.

The free, four-day event includes farmer-to-farmer webinars, live Q&A sessions, a discussion board, an online resource center, and free giveaways. This year’s conference will cover a wide variety of topics including cooperatives, insurance, business planning, energy efficiency, accounting and more!

2019-11-11 10:00 am

Driftless Area Farmers' Roundtable | Village of Trempealeau Community Hall 24455 Third St. Trempealeau, WI

A lightly facilitated discussion will take place on Monday, Nov. 11, 2019 at the Village of Trempealeau Community Hall, 24455 Third St., Trempealeau, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event is being organized by the Sustainable Farming Association/Driftless Chapter, the Izaak Walton League/ Upper Mississippi River Initiative, and a group of concerned citizens who held a similar round table in Winona this past Spring. The success of that event combined with ongoing farm challenges spurred the group to host a Fall event.

Additional sponsors include the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship Project, League of Women Voters/Upper Mississippi River Region-Interleague Organization, Minnesota State College Southeast, and University of Minnesota Extension.

2019-11-04 01:00 pm

Free U.S. Veteran Farm Info Session | U of M Extension, 3601 18th St S, #113, St Cloud, MN

U.S. veterans interested in farming should attend an upcoming Farm Info Session from 1 to 3 p.m. Mon., Nov. 4, at U. of M. Extension, 3601 18th St S, #113, St. Cloud.

This free event, hosted by SFA and Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, will include information about land access, gaining farm experience and knowledge, and other opportunities.

Speakers include Matthew Keesling, DGA Veterans Liaison; Bonnie Haugen, Southeastern Minnesota Education Coordinator; and Angie Walter, SFA/DGA Central Minnesota Education Coordinator.

2019-10-18

DGA & SFA Field Day Pasture Walk | Kent & Linda Solberg Farm * Seven Pines Farm * 18618 Cty Rd 23, Verndale, MN

10:30 - 2:30

• Flex grazing vs. rotational grazing
• Portable energized fencing
• Adaptive high-stock density
• Low-cost parlor techniques
• Incubator farm details
Free, lunch included
REGISTER AT SFA-MN.ORG/SOIL
Info: Angie Walter, 320.815.9293
or angie@sfa-mn.org

2019-09-13 10:00 am

Regenerative Grazing From the Ground Up - PASA | Forest & Greg Stricker/Spring Creek Farm, 3880 N Church Street, Wernersville, PA

Forrest and Greg Stricker from Spring Creek Farms—a 287-acre organic dairy and poultry farm—will share how they manage their pastures to optimize soil health as they strive to improve their forage productivity, quality, and longevity.
The farm’s herd of Jersey, Holstein, and Ayrshire cows are 100-percent grass-fed, and graze perennial pasture in a management intensive, rotational system.
Cost (includes lunch)
PASA Members: $10
Non-members: $15

2019-09-12 11:00 am

Coulee Graziers Pasture Walk | W15503 Kelly Rd, Taylor WI

Pasture walk hosted by the Coulee Graziers in Jackson County. The event takes place September 12 at the Nate and Karen Kling farm near Taylor.

Farmers with an interest in grazing and forage resources, from small-scale holding paddocks to full-scale managed intensive grazing are welcome to attend. The program will begin at 11:00 a.m. with a presentation from Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship.

There will also be a light lunch and pasture walk of the Kling farm from 12:00 to 2:30 p.m., where topics will include infrastructure for heavy cow traffic during wet years and dealing with saturated pastures.

2019-08-21

Iowa State U Extension and DGA Pasture Walk | Andy Schaefer Farm, Garnavillo, IA

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship program will co-host a pasture walk Aug. 21 near Garnavillo, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the Andy Schaefer dairy farm.

grazing milk cows.Schaefer has been grazing and dairying for 31 years, and today has 118 cross-bred cows on 160 acres.

Larry Tranel and Jenn Bentley, dairy specialists with ISU Extension and Outreach, will provide information on the economics of grazing and calf management in a pasture-based system.

Following lunch, Schaefer will lead attendees on a walking tour with a focus on pasture renovation, brush control and sidewalk-style cattle lanes, along with Brian Lang, field agronomist with ISU Extension and Outreach, who will provide information on soil fertility.

The pasture walk is located at 25037 Lake Rd., Garnavillo. From Garnavillo, go east on C17 3.5 miles, then south on 232 Street for 1.1 mile, then south on Lake Rd. for 2.3 miles. The farm is on the right.

Pasture walks are informal educational programs designed to demonstrate one or two key areas of pasture management, and to provide answers to common questions. This event is open to all producers who rely on forage production.

RSVPs are encouraged to help with materials and meal planning, but are not required. For more information, contact Jenn Bentley at 563-382-2949, or jbentley@iastate.edu.

2019-08-21

DGA Missouri Pasture Walk: Koopals @ White Oak 1 | White Oak 1, just east of Avilla, MO

Irrigation plays a big role in pasture management this time of year and Daryn plans to discuss the use of this technology and the benefits derived from irrigation. We will discuss current pasture management and conditions as well as plans for regrassing of selected paddocks this fall. Concerning the cows, discussion will focus on details of this spring’s breeding season and projected results. We will also evaluate and discuss current body condition and seasonal body condition goals, and hear about the Koopals’ philosophy and methodology for replacement heifer development.

2019-08-15

Grazing School | Kellogg Biological Station-W.K. Kellogg Farm Pasture Dairy Center, 10461 N 40th St, Hickory Corners, MI 49060, USA

Event Details: Michigan State University Extension is offering a grazing school for dairy, livestock and small ruminant producers. The goal of the school is to blend classroom instruction with in-field education and the latest animal/forage research to give participants an in-depth introduction to grazing management.

2019-07-25

DGA New Hampshire Pasturing Calves & Heifers Event | Haynes Dairy, 23 Tengren Ave, Claremont NH

Pasturing Calves and Heifers Event
Jul 25, 2019
10:30 am to 2:00 pm
Haynes Dairy, 23 Tengren Avenue, Claremont, NH
COST: Free event. Donations towards the lunch is appreciated.

Pasturing calves and heifers on high forage, low grain diets while using low cost simple fencing. Dealing with the summer pasture slump, and facing the challenges of transitioning a farm to a young farmer owner. Bairdis a Master with the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship and the programs growthin the region will be introduced to participants. Organized through the UVM Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship (DGA) Program.

CONTACT: Register by contacting Mary Ellen Franklin, DGA Education Coordinator. Maryellen.franklin@uvm.edu or 802-254-2228

2019-06-21

SFA Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship Field Day | Voss Organic Farm, 27725 Business 23 E, Paynesville, MN

Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship Grazing Field Day June 21 – Explore more about grazing the dairy herd, dairy replacements and the research in profitability of grazing dairy replacements during a DGA Grazing Field Day from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Fri., June 21, at Voss Organic Farm, 27725 Business 23 E, Paynesville. This event, which includes lunch and is free and open to all, is co-sponsored by SFA Crow River Chapter and funded in part by Minnesota Dairy Initiative. Info/RSVP: 320.310.5252 or hannah@sfa-mn.org.

2019-02-26 10:00 am

DGA Kick-Off in Michigan | W.K. Kellogg Farm, Hickory Corners, MI

Michigan State University and Michigan Food and Farming Systems are new DGA partners in Michigan! A kick-off meeting will be offered February 26, 2019 from 10 am to 2 pm at the MSU Kellogg Biological Station in Hickory Corners. Learn how to become a Master Dairy Grazer and the benefits it could bring to your farm and more. At the end of the meeting, help will be provided for those interested in signing up on the DGA website.

2018-10-30

UW Madison Harvest of Ideas | UW Madison Institute for Discovery

DGA will be attending a two-day forum exploring how education, research, and outreach on organic agriculture can support Wisconsin’s diverse agricultural landscape and resources, strengthen rural communities and economies, and connect organic agriculture from producer to plate. This event seeks to determine how the University of Wisconsin can best contribute to the advance of organic agriculture locally, nationally, and globally through education, research and outreach activities.

2018-08-31 10:30 am

DGA Summer Fling Pasture Walk | Benrud Farm, 26889 County 9 Blvd., Goodhue, MN

The public is invited to a DGA Summer Fling Pasture Walk at Roger and Michelle Benrud’s Organic Dairy Farm on August 31, 2018, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The main focus will be on pasture production to improve farm economics. Jim Paulson from Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, Dan Nath from NRCS, and Vance Haugen, retired University of Wisconsin Extension Agent, will help us discuss pasture production financials and forage ideas for the Benrud Farm.

2018-08-16 12:00 pm

DGA/RMA Field Day | Tomandl Farm, 7234 Gad Rd, Medford, WI 54451

What makes dairy grazing profitable? Should you buy Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) insurance; and if so, when?

Join us for this series of field days to learn how successful dairy farmers in the Upper Midwest incorporate grazing to improve profitability. Learn some surprising facts about PRF insurance. Dairies that include a grazing component are diverse, and there are many pathways to profitability. These walks will highlight results of a study of dairy farmers in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The project is sponsored by Green Lands Blue Waters and Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, with funding support from the USDA Risk Management Agency.

2018-08-02 11:00 am

DGA/RMA Field Day | Bert Paris Farm, W3443 Co. Rd. W Belleville, WI

What makes dairy grazing profitable? Should you buy Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) insurance; and if so, when?

Join us for this series of field days to learn how successful dairy farmers in the Upper Midwest incorporate grazing to improve profitability. Learn some surprising facts about PRF insurance. Dairies that include a grazing component are diverse, and there are many pathways to profitability. These walks will highlight results of a study of dairy farmers in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The project is sponsored by Green Lands Blue Waters and Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, with funding support from the USDA Risk Management Agency.

2018-07-27 09:20 am

Keeping Water in our Soils: Uplands Watershed Group Farm Tour and Farmer-Fisher Lunch | Stapleton Grain and Hay Farm, 5952 County Road Z, Spring Green, WI then moving at 10:45am to Cates Grass-fed Beef Farm, 5992 County Road T, Spring Green, WI

Farm tours will be followed by lunch at the Cates Farm, compliments of the Uplands Watershed Group. Questions? Contact Margaret Krome, Michael Fields Agricultural Institute: (608) 283-1440, mkrome@sbcglobal.net or Gene Schriefer, Iowa County Extension: (608) 930-9850

2018-07-25

DGA & OV Summer Fling Pasture Walk | Wagner Organic Dairy, 9750 Cty Rd 5 NW, Brandon, MN 56315

What makes dairy grazing profitable? Should you buy Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) insurance; and if so, when?

Join us for this series of field days to learn how successful dairy farmers in the Upper Midwest incorporate grazing to improve profitability. Learn some surprising facts about PRF insurance. Dairies that include a grazing component are diverse, and there are many pathways to profitability. These walks will highlight results of a study of dairy farmers in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The project is sponsored by Green Lands Blue Waters and Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, with funding support from the USDA Risk Management Agency.

2018-07-21

DGA/RMA Field Day | Dave Suprenant, Law-Rae Manor Dairy Farm, 5898 E 7000 N Manteno, IL

What makes dairy grazing profitable? Should you buy Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) insurance; and if so, when?

Join us for this series of field days to learn how successful dairy farmers in the Upper Midwest incorporate grazing to improve profitability. Learn some surprising facts about PRF insurance. Dairies that include a grazing component are diverse, and there are many pathways to profitability. These walks will highlight results of a study of dairy farmers in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The project is sponsored by Green Lands Blue Waters and Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, with funding support from the USDA Risk Management Agency.

2018-07-14

DGA/RMA Field Day | Wedemeier Farm, Maynard, IA

What makes dairy grazing profitable? Should you buy Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) insurance; and if so, when?

Join us for this series of field days to learn how successful dairy farmers in the Upper Midwest incorporate grazing to improve profitability. Learn some surprising facts about PRF insurance. Dairies that include a grazing component are diverse, and there are many pathways to profitability. These walks will highlight results of a study of dairy farmers in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The project is sponsored by Green Lands Blue Waters and Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, with funding support from the USDA Risk Management Agency.

2018-06-28

DGA Summer Fling Pasture Walk | Springside Farm (Haugen), 12620 Deer Rd, Canton, MN 55922-1600

What makes dairy grazing profitable? Should you buy Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) insurance; and if so, when?

Join us for this series of field days to learn how successful dairy farmers in the Upper Midwest incorporate grazing to improve profitability. Learn some surprising facts about PRF insurance. Dairies that include a grazing component are diverse, and there are many pathways to profitability. These walks will highlight results of a study of dairy farmers in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The project is sponsored by Green Lands Blue Waters and Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, with funding support from the USDA Risk Management Agency.

2018-05-24

DGA Spring Fling Pasture Walk | Molitor Organic Farm, 8554 Cty Rd 47, St. Cloud, MN 56301

The public is invited to a Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship Spring Fling pasture walk @ Molitor Organic Farm. The main focus is on pasture production to improve farm economics.
Before lunch, we will discuss current pressures of dairy farming. Also, we will hear Brad Heins, University of Minnesota Dairy Scientist, and Joe debate the future of dairy cow genetics. Will the super producing cow be the dairy farmers demise?
After lunch, Brad will lead the discussion on grazing potentials, and how this management can improve net profits. Land value and forage costs are serious components of total feed costs. Joe Molitor will share what forages are working on his farm and how they influence his feed costs. Assigning costs to pastured produced forage is not difficult and helps producer financial success.

2018-05-19

DGA Spring Pasture Walk | Peasley Farm, N7271 US HWY 12 Black River Falls, WI 54615

Dave and Will Peasley milk 70 cows and are in their final year of transitioning to organic. When they started their transition process to had no pastures within their system. This spring they completed the final portion of perimeter fence so that the entire home farm’s tillable acres are fenced. With a trout stream separating the farm buildings from most of the pasture, both a traditional stream crossing and a bridge were completed to protect the stream banks.

2018-04-23 10:30 pm

Improving Dairy Profitability through Managed Grazing | Ag Services Building, 1960 8th Avenue, Baldwin, WI

Wisconsin Farmers Union will be partnering with regional R C&Ds and their grazing networks this spring to hold a series of workshops for dairy farmers who want to learn about the financial and managerial benefits grazing can provide. The sessions are targeted at both farmers who are not presently using managed grazing and current dairy grazers who want to improve their management skills and share ideas.

2018-04-10 10:30 am

Improving Dairy Profitability through Managed Grazing | Calumet County Courthouse, 206 Court Street, Chilton, WI

Wisconsin Farmers Union will be partnering with regional R C&Ds and their grazing networks this spring to hold a series of workshops for dairy farmers who want to learn about the financial and managerial benefits grazing can provide. The sessions are targeted at both farmers who are not presently using managed grazing and current dairy grazers who want to improve their management skills and share ideas.

2018-04-06 10:30 am

Improving Dairy Profitability through Managed Grazing | Quality Inn, 1345 Business Park Road, Mineral Point, WI

Wisconsin Farmers Union will be partnering with regional R C&Ds and their grazing networks this spring to hold a series of workshops for dairy farmers who want to learn about the financial and managerial benefits grazing can provide. The sessions are targeted at both farmers who are not presently using managed grazing and current dairy grazers who want to improve their management skills and share ideas.

2018-03-28 10:00 am

Bradford County Grazier Meeting | Troy Firehall, 88 Firehouse Drive Troy, PA 16947

Join graziers from Bradford County, and beyond, for a regional grazier meeting in Troy, PA, on March 28. Retired Wisconsin dairy farmer Altfrid Krusenbaum will present on optimizing pasture forage to decrease feeding costs, and host a conversation about training the next generation of dairy farmers in America. Farmer and NRCS technical specialist JB Harrold will present on raising contract organic dairy cow heifers on his farm, in western PA.

This meeting is suitable for anyone grazing livestock interested in improving their pastures and general farm design. Lunch is included.

2018-03-23 01:00 pm

Improving the Bottom Line Through Integrating Grazing in the Modern Dairy | Webinar (on-line)

Join farmer Matt Bomgardner, of Blue Mountain View dairy farm, as he discusses the economics and logic behind various management decisions on his third generation dairy farm in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania.

Once a primarily confined operation, Matt and his family have worked to incorporate more grazing into their management systems at Blue Mountain View, with the goal of creating a more resilient farm operation. Matt and his family have been working with a profit team since 2011, and the farm is currently in the process of obtaining its organic registration.

During this presentation, Matt will give a basic history and profile of the farm, followed by a discussion of topics such as labor efficiencies, production income versus expenses, and herd genetics and grazing tactics, including maximizing stocking rates. Joining the conversation will be Duane Hertzler, a longtime grazier and member of Matt's profit team.

Following the presentation, participants will be encouraged to ask their own questions and engage in a conversation about keeping farms secure and profitable, even in challenging times.

This webinar is free. For more information and to register, visit pasafarming.org, or contact Aaron de Long at (484) 680-3778; aaron@pasafarming.org

2018-03-21 10:30 am

Improving Dairy Profitability through Managed Grazing | 841 Brewhouse, 841 East Milwaukee Street, Whitewater, WI

Wisconsin Farmers Union will be partnering with regional R C&Ds and their grazing networks this spring to hold a series of workshops for dairy farmers who want to learn about the financial and managerial benefits grazing can provide. The sessions are targeted at both farmers who are not presently using managed grazing and current dairy grazers who want to improve their management skills and share ideas.

2018-03-20 10:30 am

Improving Dairy Profitability through Managed Grazing | Dodge County Administration Bldg. 127 East Oak Street, Juneau, WI

Wisconsin Farmers Union will be partnering with regional R C&Ds and their grazing networks this spring to hold a series of workshops for dairy farmers who want to learn about the financial and managerial benefits grazing can provide. The sessions are targeted at both farmers who are not presently using managed grazing and current dairy grazers who want to improve their management skills and share ideas.

2018-03-06 01:00 pm

Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship Pasture Walk | Peter Arnold Farm, F4612 County Rd E, Edgar, WI

Peter and Suzie Arnold and their DGA apprentice, Leo Arnold are hosting an afternoon pasture walk featuring their organic dairy enterprise. The afternoon will include a farm tour, taking a look at the dairy facilities and checking out the out-wintering practices the Arnolds implement for the replacement dairy heifers. Other discussion topics will be nutrition related with a focus on transitioning springing dry cows and heifers. We will also address the ins and outs of understanding forage test analysis sheets. Peter Arnold’s nutritionist will lead the discussion on these nutrition related topics.

2018-02-22

MOSES Organic Farming Conference | LaCrosse Center, LaCrosse, WI

The MOSES Organic Farming Conference is the largest event in the U.S. about organic and sustainable farming, offering 65 workshops over 6 sessions, inspiring keynotes, engaging roundtables, and a resource-packed Exhibit Hall with over 170 vendors. The event is preceded by Organic University–10 full-day courses that dig deeper into specific farming topics. DGA will be there!! Won't you join us?!

2018-02-21

UW River Falls Spring Career Fair | UWRF University Center

The UW River Falls Career Fair is an excellent way for students to network with employers from a variety of organizations and UWRF graduate programs. Students benefit from attending by gathering information on organizations and possible job or internship opportunities, and by enhancing professional communications skills from speaking with company representatives. Many students obtain jobs or internships as a result of attending the Career Fair. DGA will be there looking for candidates!

2018-02-07

PASA's 27th Annual Farming for the Future Conference | Penn Stater Conference Center in State College, PA

The Annual Farming for the Future Conference is PASA’s signature event and our main vehicle for community building. Widely regarded as the best of its kind in the east, this event brings together farmers, processors, consumers, students, environmentalists, and business and community leaders. Each year, we feature:
• Over 120 educational programs ranging from full-day intensives to 80-minute workshops.
• A three-day Trade Show with exhibitors representing the best of the sustainable agriculture business community.
• Delicious social hour receptions and meals featuring regionally sourced ingredients.
• An ag-themed Future Farmers program for kids (K to Grade 8).
• Many more special events to educate and entertain.

2017-10-11

University Of Wisconsin - River Falls Career Fair | University Center, River Falls, WI

The UWRF Career Fair is an excellent way for students to network with employers from a variety of organizations and UWRF graduate programs. Students benefit from attending by gathering information on organizations and possible job or internship opportunities, and by enhancing professional communications skills from speaking with company representatives. Many students obtain jobs or internships as a result of attending the Career Fair. DGA will be there!! Come join us to learn more about our organization!

2017-09-06 10:30 am

Fall Fling Pasture Walk | Walters Farm, 11034 110th St, Villard, MN

Please join us Wednesday, September 6th, 2017, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for the DGA Fall Fling Pasture Walk at the farm of Master Dairy Graziers, Nate and Angie Walters, in Villard, MN.

Topics will be grazing and planting cover crops on this organic dairy farm. Cover crop benefits, and research information. Dung beetles, and other beneficial aspects of a healthy pasture will also be discussed.

Guest speakers: Organic dairy expert, Dr. Brad Heins; grazing and livestock specialist, Kent Solberg; and NRCS grazing specialists, Jeff Duchene.

Additionally, recognition will be given to two graduating Dairy Grazing Apprentices.

2017-08-24 01:00 pm

North Central Grazers & DGA Pasture Walk | Nick & Lynn Hicks Dairy Farm, N8304 Hwy 73, Gilman, WI

Please join the North Central Grazers, Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, and our hosts at the Nick and Lynn Hicks family on Thursday August 24, 2017 from 1:00-3:00 p.m. for a pasture walk featuring their grass based organic dairy operation. The farm is located in western Taylor County near Jump River Wisconsin. Nick and Lynn currently sell their organic milk to Westby Creamery. The Hicks are outstanding managers of their organic operation, their herd consisting of over 70 crossbred cows, with Jersey as the dominant breed influence, but also including Holstein, Shorthorn, Aryshire and Brown Swiss. Nick intensively grazes over 80 acres. Pastures annually are evaluated and no-tilled as needed with sufficient amounts of perennial rye, meadow fescue, festulolium, red clover and improved white clover to ensure good stands of forage. To set up a well-designed grazing system, components installed were high tensile fencing, along with a well built up-raised cattle lane crossing a very wet area. The Taylor County LCD and the local NRCS office provided cost sharing and design expertise for this grazing project. Nick does not have waterlines going to pastures, but daily trucks water to the herd’s grazing locations during the grazing season.

2017-08-05 12:00 pm

Start-Up Dairy for Journey Workers | W5818 Payne School Rd, Coleman, WI

Learn how to set up a farm on August 5, 2017, 12:00 to 3:00 PM. Dave Kammel from Biological Systems Engineering, UW Madison, will join DGA participants for a look at how older facilities can be refurbished and remodeled for a grazing dairy operation, including pastures.

Drew Votis, Journey Dairy Grazier, is moving his dairy operation to Coleman in 2018. He is looking for input from Masters, Apprentices, and other Journey Dairy Graziers on how to set up a farm.

2017-08-01 10:00 am

Summer Annuals in the Grazing Mix | Little Crick Farm, Stevensville, PA

Join Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA) and dairy farmer John Meglich at his Little Crick Farm on Tuesday, August 1, for a tour of John’s 100% grass-fed, certified organic dairy farm. During the tour, John will focus on his use of summer annuals in his grazing system, especially the use of corn.

John has been experimenting with grazing corn for years and has developed both no-till and conventional tillage systems for incorporating this high tonnage forage into his grazing regime. In addition to corn, he has also experimented with grazing annuals such as turnips, oats, and cow peas, sometimes combining more than one of these crops in the same planting. Challenges and benefits of these techniques will be explored, and this year’s early plantings will be assessed. The tour will conclude with a BBQ lunch at the farmhouse.

2017-06-14 09:30 am

Wisconsin FFA State Convention Career Show | Exhibition Hall at the Alliant Energy Center, Madison, WI

Connect with DGA & other Wisconsin FFA members June 14, 2017 from 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM at a one-day Career Show during the Wisconsin FFA Convention! It's an educational and recreational trade show to network FFA members with employers and more. Join us to learn more about our organization and what we can offer you!

2017-06-13

Ian Mitchell-Innes Grazing Workshop | Misty Brook Farm, Albion, ME

Learn from world-renowned grazing expert Ian Mitchell-Innes at Misty Brook Farm, June 13th and 14th, 2017, for only $275/farm family (lunch included). Hosts Brendan & Katia Holmes produce dairy, beef and lamb – all 100% grassfed and certified organic. Their diversified, 400 acre direct marketing operation also grows organic pork, poultry, eggs and grain.

2017-05-25 09:30 am

Managed-Grazing Farm Tour | Butler and Hillside Pastures Farms, Spring Green, WI

Join Michael Fields Ag Institute, DGA and other sustainable agriculture organizations May 25, 2017 from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM for this Farm Tour and Gulf Seafood. Discuss managed grazing practices – rotations, water and fencing systems, no-till drilling for pasture improvement, goats for brush control, stream stabilization and crossings, overwintering fields in recovery, winter manure management, challenges with erosion and runoff, and a rainfall simulator showing impacts of land cover on erosion.

Then enjoy a lunch of brats, plus seafood caught by fishermen in the Gulf with whom we have developed a relationship and whose challenges with nutrient build-up and biological die-off in the Gulf Dead Zone we aim to help through our conservation practices.

2017-04-24 08:30 am

Minnesota FFA State Convention Agricultural Career Day | Continuing Education Conference Center on the University of Minnesota, St. Paul Campus

It’s an exciting time for Minnesota FFA AND DGA… and we invite you to join us! The Minnesota State FFA Convention is April 23-25, 2017. More than 3,500 FFA members and advisors and guests will be in attendance. As part of the Convention, the Minnesota FFA Foundation will host an Agricultural Career Fair. DGA will be exhibiting at Career Day and we welcome you to stop by and visit us for more information about our organization.

2017-03-17

West Central WI Grazing Conference | Grand Occasions Ballroom, Osseo, WI

River Country Grazing Network spring grazing conference is fast approaching, just as spring green-up will be here before we know it! We invite you to join us in a day of learning from innovative farmers, researchers, and advisors in the grazing field.

There will be plenty of great knowledge shared to ensure that your grazing farm can be a success on many levels. The conference hopes to motivate all graziers to achieve even greater levels of economic and environmental success all while benefiting their families and community in the process. We will have opportunities for questions and discussion, as well as a trade show with a grazing focus.

2017-03-09 10:30 am

Outwintering Field Day | West Central Research and Outreach Center, Morris, MN

Join us March 9, 2017 from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm for dairy tours and lunch during our Outwintering Field Day!

Outwintering dairy cattle continues to increase in popularity, especially with the potential to reduce housing costs. Part of our dairy research at the West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC) is to evaluate various outwintering options and the effect on herd health and comfort. Outwintering Field Day is in collaboration with the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship program.

Event will include tours of the out-wintered dairy herd at the WCROC, organic milking cows, and breeding and young stock living in three different pasture areas. Animal well-being and pasture use will also be discussed. Bring your own stories to share. Dress appropriately for the weather - we will be outside.

2017-03-09

Vermont Organic Dairy Producers Conference | Vermont Technical College, Randolph Center, VT

DGA Education Coordinator, Rick Kersbergen, who is also a sustainable dairy and forage systems specialist with University of Maine Cooperative Extension, will give the keynote talk at the annual Vermont Organic Dairy Producers Conference.

Kersbergen will describe nutritional strategies for optimal herd health and performance at the March 9 conference at Vermont Technical College in Randolph Center. He will give a second talk on Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, a national program that helps train new graziers through a combination of on-farm employment and mentorship.

The conference is co-sponsored by University of Vermont (UVM) Extension’s Northwest Crops and Soils Program and NOFA Vermont’s Organic Dairy and Livestock Technical Assistance Program. The registration fee, due by March 1, is $25 and includes lunch and conference materials.

2017-02-28 11:00 am

DGA Outwintering Walk at Brandt Farm | 1108 Ancestor Lane, Mosinee, WI

An out-wintering walk is scheduled for February 28,2017 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for DGA Apprentices and Masters. In addition to covering out-wintering practices, there will be a discussion on transitioning the farm back to dairy, including a discussion of the financial obstacles that we will face in getting our farm back up and running for organic dairy. DGA Financial Advisor, Tom Cadwallader of Cadwallader Consulting will be leading that discussion.

2017-02-28

Southwest Missouri Spring Forage Conference | University Plaza Hotel, Springfield, MO

2017 will mark the 33rd Annual Southwest Missouri Spring Forage Conference with a day filled with education and information about agriculture and grazing related topics. Be sure to stop by the booth and meet DGA Education Coordinator, Ted Probert.

Carefully planned breakout sessions are designed to give a deeper exposure of ideas for the participants. With four sessions offered for each time-slot, farmers are sure to find a variety of presentations to choose from throughout the day. This is a day that is packed with presenters who have experience, talent and are eager to share their innovative knowledge to improve the efficiency of your forage production.

2017-02-23

MOSES Organic Farming Conference | La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse, WI

The 2017 MOSES Organic Farming Conference will be held Feb 23-25, 2017. It’s the largest event in the U.S. about organic and sustainable farming, offering 65 workshops over 6 sessions, inspiring keynotes, engaging roundtable discussions, and a resource-packed Exhibit Hall with over 170 vendors. Be sure to stop by the DGA booth!

2017-02-22

UW River Falls Career Fair | University Center, River Falls, WI

DGA will have a booth at the 2017 UWRF Career Fair. The event is excellent way for students to network with employers from a variety of organizations and UWRF programs. Students benefit from attending by gathering information on organizations and possible job or internship opportunities, and by enhancing professional communications skills from speaking with company representatives. Many students obtain jobs or internships as a result of attending the Career Fair.

2017-02-09

UW Platteville Career Fair | Ullsvik Hall, Velzy Commons, Platteville, WI

The UW- Platteville Career Fair attracts thousands of students and hundreds of employers. The event takes place from Feb 7 to Feb 9, 2017. DGA will have a booth on Day 3, which targets the following majors: Business/Accounting • Agriculture • Media Studies • Biology • Industrial Technology Management • Liberal Arts • Education • Criminal Justice • Health and Human Performance

2017-02-02

GrassWorks Grazing Conference | Chula Vista Resort, Wisconsin Dells, WI

The annual GrassWorks Grazing Conference is February 2-4, 2017. Join DGA and your fellow graziers for this great educational and networking event! This year's conference will feature a full dairy track with DGA participant panels and workshops on a range of topics, including start-up farming, farm profitability, no-grain dairy, and grazing genetics. Speakers include Allen Nation, Jim Gerrish, Tom Frantzen, and Larry Tranel.

2017-02-01

Farming for the Future Conference | Penn Stater Conference Center & Hotel in State College, PA

Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture’s signature event will be held Feb 1-4, 2017. This is PASA's main vehicle for community building. Widely regarded as the best of its kind in the East, the event brings together an audience of over 2,000 farmers, processors, consumers, students, environmentalists and business and community leaders annually.

DGA will have a booth at the Trade Show and On-Farm Education Director, Altfrid Krusenbaum, will be on the presentation schedule.

2017-01-28

Immigrant & Minority Farmers Conference | University of Minnesota Continuing Education and Conference Center, St. Paul, MN

The 12th Annual Immigrant & Minority Farmers Conference, the largest of its kind across the country, takes place from January 28th - 29th, 2017 and and provides education and resources to small operators, and fosters relationships between farmers and community partners. Immigrants, minorities, and women are the fastest growing sector of farmers. The conference supports these new and aspiring farmers and their contributions to building an adequate supply of local foods, local economic development, and healthy communities. A program of the Minnesota Food Association, the IMFC is planned and hosted by a collaborative of farmers and volunteers, government, nonprofit, and University of Minnesota personnel.

2017-01-19

Heart of America Dairy Expo | Ramada Oasis Hotel, Springfield, MO

Join DGA at the Heart of America Dairy Expo! Dairy farmers from around the Midwest will gather for this event in Springfield, Mo., January 19-21, 2017. The expo will feature more than 500 attendees from 15 states representing more than 13,000 cows. Attendees learn from leaders in the dairy field and discover tips and techniques from fellow dairy farmers throughout the Midwest. Join us for presentations from farmers, university specialists and allied industry experts featuring up-to-date information for your farm that you can’t afford to miss.

2017-01-18

Outwintering Pasture Walk Training | 12454 20th St, Colfax, WI

River Country RC&D, DGA, and the Dunn County NRCS invite you to an Outwintering Pasture Walk at the Chuck Flodquist Hill Creek Dairy near Colfax WI on Wednesday January 18th from 10AM to 12 PM with extended time for questions available following the Pasture Walk.

We will be learning some great outwintering strategies from Chuck, who is a long time grazier, current DGA Master Grazier, and a manager who has utilized outwintering as a vital component of his herd and pasture management for many years. He is currently managing over 100 milk cows and additional youngstock. He will explain many of the benefits he has seen over the years of outwintering his dairy cattle. We will have some information fact sheets and plenty of opportunity to ask questions during the walk as this is geared to be an educational experience in the field.

2016-12-08 06:00 pm

Economics of the Grazing Dairy Panel Discussion | Farm and Home Center, 1383 Arcadia Road, Lancaster, PA 17601

Join farmers Cliff Hawbaker and Myron Martin, as well as researchers Matt Haan and Dale Johnson, from 6-8pm on December 8, at the Farm and Home Center in Lancaster, for a discussion regarding the economics of the dairy industry, particularly as it relates to grass-based operations. In a challenging economic climate, the presenters will explore how grazing could be an important part of the financial solution for many farms, moving forward. Potentials and pitfalls of this production system will be addressed; questions from the audience will be encouraged.

Farmer Cliff Hawbaker owns and operates Hamilton Heights Dairy Farm and Emerald Valley Farm, both in southcentral PA. A lifelong dairy farmer, he began grazing in 1998 and serves as a mentor within the PA Grazing Lands Coalition. Cliff will be joined on the panel by Myron Martin, who owns and operates Peace Hollow Farm, a certified organic, all-grass dairy in Knoxville, Maryland. Also on the panel will be Dale Johnson, a researcher at the University of Maryland, who has published on the economics of management intensive grazing in the mid-Atlantic region. Matt Haan, of the Penn State Extension Dairy Team, will round out the field of presenters, as a specialist in the economic analysis of dairy operations.

This event is $10 for PASA members, $15 for non-members. Questions regarding registration or the event, in general, can be addressed to Aaron de Long, by phone at 484-680-3778, or by email at aaron@pasafarming.org .

2016-11-30

Farmer Veteran Stakeholders Conference | Kellogg Conference Center, East Lansing, MI

In partnership with Farmer Veteran Coalition of Michigan and MSU’s Vets to Ag Program, the 2016 Farmer Veteran Stakeholders Conference Nov 30 to Dec 2, 2016. The conference will bring together farmer veterans from across the country with the government, agriculture, educational and nonprofit groups that support them. It will include tracks on Livestock, Cropping, Bees and Beneficials, Business and Finance, Marketing, Employment and Training, and Continuing Education – as well as farm visits, networking and exciting guest speakers.

2016-10-21

New Farmer U | Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, Lanesboro, MN

New Farmer U is October 21-23, 2017. Learn from “rock star” organic farmers and ag experts about organic practices for better soil fertility, weed & pest management, farm machinery maintenance, season extension, benefits of organic certification, and land access & funding sources. DGA Education Coordinator, Bonnie Haugen, will be there on Saturday, October 22nd, to provide information to those interested in getting started in dairy farming.

2016-10-08

Grazing Dairy Cow Health and Genetics | Wholesome Dairy Farms, 181 Camp Rd Douglassville, PA

This field day will be a discussion regarding the challenges cows face at the different stages of their lives, including conversation around genetics, nutrition, and how the soil of the pasture directly influences the health of the animal and the end product of the system. Mark Lopez, VMD, owner of Wholesome Dairy Farms in Douglassville, PA, will lead the group from the pasture to the barn and, finally, to the on-site store that sells the farm’s finished products. Susan Beal, DVM, CVH, will also be present to lend her expertise related to whole farm/whole system pasture-based ecology: managing health from the ground up.

2016-09-20

Healing Our Waters® – 12 Annual Great Lakes Coalition Confrence | Hotel and Confrence Center Cedar Point Breakers Hotel 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH

Each year Healing Our Waters – Great Lakes Coalition brings together a diverse group of more than 400 people from throughout the Great Lakes region to attend the Great Lakes Restoration Conference. The conference provides a 3-day forum for participants to learn about important Great Lakes Restoration issues, network at the largest annual gathering of Great Lakes supporters and activists, and develop strategies to advance federal, regional and local restoration goals.

2016-09-09

Forage Testing in the Grazing Dairy | Sandy Springs Farm, 130 Sinclair Road Newmanstown, PA

Join farmer Andy Kline and Dr. Kathy Soder, of the USDA-ARS, on a tour of Andy’s all grass-fed dairy farm. As part of the walk, Dr. Soder will talk about forage testing, including relating the laboratory results of a sample taken from Andy's farm the week previous. Andy will talk about how he evaluates his forage over the course of the season, and his practice of grazing 'tall'. Participants will be encouraged to take part in the conversation, sharing their questions and knowledge, both in the field as well as over lunch, in the barn.

2016-09-07 11:00 am

Fall Fling Pasture Walk | Walter Farm, 11034 110th Street, Villard, MN

Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship, along with University of Minnesota Extension, Minnesota Natural Resources Conservation Services, and Organic Valley/CROPP, will host a Fall Fling Pasture Walk in central Minnesota.

This event, which is open to the public, will take place on Wednesday, September 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Nate and Angie Walter Farm, located at 11034 110th Street, Villard, MN. The Walters milk 100 cows that are rotationally grazed and are Master Dairy Graziers with Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship.

The topics to be covered include crop rotations with grazing strips and winter rye for spring grazing, with demonstrations on using the pasture plate meter, yardstick measuring, and doing calculations on post and pre grazing paddocks.

Anyone interested in learning more about managed grazing or Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship is welcome. This event is offered free of charge. Lunch will be provided thanks to our generous sponsors: Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship and Organic Valley.

Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship is an accredited formal Apprenticeship, established by and for farmers, to train a new generation in the dairy grazing business and to give retiring farmers options for passing on the farm. Bonnie Haugen, the DGA Minnesota Education Coordinator, will be available to answer questions.

2016-09-01 10:00 am

Successful Dairy Production on 100% Grass | Moore Farms, 2083 Moore Hill Rd, Nichols, NY

Join Organic Valley and NOFA-NY for a Grass-based Field Day and Pasture Walk at Moore Farms.

Hosts Rob and Pam Moore operate a 60 cow spring seasonal dairy on 240 acres of perennial pasture. Their dairy has been 100% Grass-fed and Certified Organic since 1996. Rob serves as a Master Grazier for the National Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship program, which recently expanded into New York and Pennsylvania.

Organic Valley’s Ruminant Nutritionist Dr. Silvia Abel-Caines will present about “Successful Dairy Production on 100% Grass” and share her experiences working with Organic and 100% Grass-fed dairy farmers across the country. Topics include:

· Grazing management that focuses on the cow
· Genetics of grass-fed dairy
· Nutritional aspects of no-grain calf and heifer growth
· Balancing the non-grazing season ration when forage quality is less than ideal
· Pasture / Cattle / Soil Health Connection

Educator/retired organic dairy farmer Fay Benson will lead a Soil Health Demonstration and discussion.

Rob Moore will share his approach to keeping pastures vegetative during dry spells and how this worked out with the 2016 drought. Rob and Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship Education Coordinator Fay Benson will speak briefly about the DGA program, which is dedicated to providing guided career paths for Beginning Grass Dairy Farmers and independent dairy farm ownership.

2016-05-23 12:00 pm

North Central Graziers Pasture Walk | W3042 Trout Ave, Rib Lake, WI

Glenn & Mary Harder Organic Dairy Farm, W3042 Trout Ave., Rib Lake
Farm Operator Brandon Probst

Topic: Training the next generation of farmers
Hosted by: Taylor County LCD, Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship Program, and Organic Valley Dairy Cooperative.

You are welcome to join us for a noon lunch sponsored by Organic Valley Dairy Cooperative

The Harders have ran a longtime grass based dairy operation. With grazing being a natural fit, the Harders had their farm certified to organic production 8 years ago. They currently sell their milk through Organic Valley Dairy Cooperative. A little over a decade ago, the Harders hired a neighborhood kid named Brandon Probst to help with part time chores on their farm. All through and after graduating from high school, Brandon continued to work for the Harders. After his high school graduation, Brandon enrolled in the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship Program. Shortly after going through the 2 year DGA program, Brandon became the main operator of the farm. He currently handles the bulk of the workload and makes a lot of the daily decisions that need to be made on the farm. Brandon has certainly benefited from the mentoring, as well as the classes and other education offered through Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship.

The Harders have also benefited by employing Brandon, and becoming a master farm for the DGA Program. Nearing retirement, Glen has been able to ease his daily workload, while continuing to offer some mentoring and decision making advice. He still continues to work alongside of Brandon helping with the daily chores and tasks on the farm.

Join us for some good discussion about the management of this unique and successful dairy farm operation. We will also have a farm tour and pasture walk. There will be handouts with information about DGA as well as other grazing related materials.

2016-04-25

Minnesota FFA Convention | Continuing Education Conference Center, University of Minnesota, St. Paul Campus

The Minnesota State FFA Convention is April 24-26, 2016. More than 3,500 FFA members and advisors and guests will be in attendance. As part of the Convention, the Minnesota FFA Foundation will host an Agricultural Career Fair alongside educational institutions in The Under The Tent Event. Come visit the DGA booth!

2016-03-12

North Central Graziers 2016 Grazing Conference | Meadowview Golf Course 800 W 3rd Street Owen, WI

Conference features North Dakota producer, Gabe Brown, speaking on “Grazing cover crops and the benefits for livestock producers” and “Using Cover Crops to Protect The Soil & Increase its Health” as well as Dr. Roy Stockwell from the National Wildlife Federation on impacts of cover crops on wildlife and afternoon sessions on nutrient management.

No charge for producers and lunch is included. Registration starts at 9:30 AM.

2016-03-11

West Central Wisconsin Spring Grazing Conference | Grand Occasions Ballroom, Osseo, WI

River Country RC & D brings a fantastic line up of speakers including: Justin Morris, Regional Soil Health Specialist, USDA NRCS, and Ken Anderson, Nutritionist & Agronomist, Anderson Feeds. A panel of farmers will share stories of direct marketing,sheep dairy, organic dairy & composting, and Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship.

Lunch is included with your registration.

2016-02-24

UW River Falls Career Fair | UWRF University Center 170 University Center 410 S. Third Street River Falls, WI 54022

Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship will be attending the UW-River Falls Career Fair to recruit high quality Apprentice Candidates from various majors, including Dairy Science, Animal Science, Agriculture Economics, and Environmental Science. A Pre-Apprenticeship Internship track is also available for students.

2016-02-06

River Country Grazing Network Winter Discussion Group Mtg | Holm Family Farm, Elk Mound, WI

Come with questions, success stories and challenges you have faced grazing and outwintering and share/discuss options and alternatives that other producers are implementing on their farms. Also spring grazing conference topics will be discussed and much much more. if you have questions please call mary c at 715 579 2206. Starts at 1 pm and will last until approx 3pm.

2016-02-03

Farming for the Future Conference - Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA) | The Penn Stater Conference Center, State College, PA

The annual Farming for the Future Conference, February 3-6, 2016, is PASA’s signature event and its main vehicle for community building. Widely regarded as the best of its kind in the East, this event brings together an audience of over 2,000 farmers, processors, consumers, students, environmentalists and business and community leaders annually.

2016-01-14

2016 GrassWorks Grazing Conference | Chula Vista Resort Wisconsin Dells, WI

Join DGA this year, January 14-16, 2016 for a full dairy track that covers topics such as dairy genetics and improving herd health, organic certification and other value added enterprises, and custom heifer raising. Thursday evening DGA will host an informal mixer for Masters, Apprentices, and Apprentice Candidates. To find out more and register for the 2016 Grazing Conference, visit http://grassworks.org/

2016-01-08

Minnesota Organic Conference | River's Edge Convention Center, St. Cloud, MN

Minnesota Organic Conference, January 8-9, 2016, welcome farmers, researchers, educators, consultants, advisors, business people, and anyone else who wants to learn more about organic. The educational program is complemented by an 80+ vendor trade show. For current program information and other conference news, visit: www.mda.state.mn.us/organic

DGA @ Grassworks Grazing Conference | Chula Vista Resort, Wisconsin Dells, WI

MGIC Spring Semester Registration | Please click below to learn more and to register

Climate Smart Commodities Informational Webinar | Zoom Meeting: Click below to join the meeting

MO 2501 On Farm Event | Friends Young Stock Farm, 19366 Farm Rd 2020, Aurora, MO

MO NRCS On Farm Event Featuring PaddockTrac | Friends Young Stock Farm, 19366 Farm Rd 2020, Aurora, MO

MN Fall Pasture Walk | Chad Crowley Farm, 32979 Pier Ridge Rd, LaCrescent, MN

NY NRCS Event Featuring PaddockTrac | Birds All Farm: 3642 Worden Rd, Canaseraga, NY

DGA at World Dairy Expo | Alliant Energy Center, Madison, WI

MN NRCS Event Featuring PaddockTrac | Walter Organic Family Farm, 11034 110th St, Villard, MN 56385

Grazing Through Green Mountains VT Bus Tour | 2465 Gore Rd, High Gate Center, VT

PA NRCS On Farm Event Featuring PaddockTrac | Seven Stars Farm, 419 Seven Stars Road, Phoenixville, PA 19460

WI NRCS Event Featuring PaddockTrac | Legacy Grass Dairy/Tomandl Farms, 247606 Gad Rd, Medford, WI

DGA WI 2501 Event & Roundtable | Legacy Grass Dairy/Tomandl Farms, 247606 Gad Rd, Medford, WI

WI NRCS Event Featuring PaddockTrac | Grass Dairy/Mericka Farm, 5025 State Rd 23, Dodgeville, WI

WI 2501 Pasture Walk Event | Grass Dairy/Mericka Farm, 5025 State Road 23, Dodgeville, WI

DGA NRCS/PaddockTrac New York Event | Sheffer's Grassland Dairy, 74 Sheffer Rd, Hoosick Falls, NY

DGA 2501 Missouri Event | Cloverhill Dairy, 4198 Hwy 95, Mtn Grove, MO 65711

DGA New York Pasture Walk | Heaven Scent Farm, 4735 Turnpike Rd, Bath, NY

Maine DGA NRCS Event | Wolfes's Neck Center Dairy, 184 Burnett Rd, Freeport, ME 04032

Pasture Walk | 18732 Highway 27, Gays Mills Wi

DGA & USDA 2501 Wisconsin Event | Briggs Family Farm, 220601 Maple Nut Road, Stratford, WI

DGA & SFA NRCS Minnesota Event Featuring PaddockTrac | WALTER ORGANIC FAMILY FARM, 11034 110TH STREET, VILLARD, MN 56385

Wisconsin 2023 FFA Convention | Appleton, WI

DGA & NRCS OH Event Featuring PaddockTrac | Settlage Dairy Farm, 12218 State Route 29, St Marys, OH 45885

DGA & NRCS - MO Event Featuring PaddockTrac | Mariposa 4, 24955 JACK LANE, GRANBY, MO 64844

DGA & USDA 2501 Event - Mariposa 4, MO | Mariposa 4, 24955 JACK LANE, GRANBY, MO 64844

MN Mentor Roundtable | Hillcrest Family Restaurant, Albany, MN

2023 Marbleseed Conference | LaCrosse Center, LaCrosse, WI

44th Annual OEFFA Conference | Cherry Valley Hotel & Ohio Conference Center, Newark, Ohio

2023 Grassworks Conference | Chula Vista Resort, Wisconsin Dells, WI

Northeast Grazing & Livestock Conference | Virtual

DGA 2501 Farm Safety & Animal Welfare Webinar | Zoom link sent upon registration

DGA Presents A USDA Programs Webinar | Via Zoom. Link will be sent once you register

*NEW MISSOURI NRCS EVENT featuring PaddockTrac | Roaming Pastures/Kitten Creek North,7582 2913 Rd, Shelly City, MO

*NEW WI DGA-NRCS Event featuring PaddockTrac | Tomandl Dairy, 247606 Gad Rd, Medford, WI

World Dairy Expo | Alliant Energy Center - Madison, WI

*NEW NEW YORK NRCS EVENT featuring PaddockTrac | Sheffer's Grassland Dairy, Hoosick Falls, NY

DGA & Great River Graziers Fall Pasture Walk | Vance, Bonnie & Olaf Haugen Farm/ 12620 Deer Rd/ Canton, MN

*NEW 2501 Wisconsin On Farm Event & Workshop | Terraced Acres Farm, 18736 State Hwy 27, Gay Mills, WI

* NEW OHIO NRCS EVENT featuring PaddockTrac | Settlage & Settlage Farm, 12218 St. Rt 29, St Mary's, Ohio

*NEW PENNSYLVANIA NRCS EVENT featuring PaddockTrac | Seven Stars Farm, Phoenixville, PA

* NEW Minnesota NRCS & PaddockTrac Demo & Pasture Walk | Walter Organic Family Farms, 11034 110th Street, Villard, MN

*NEW MAINE NRCS EVENT featuring PaddockTrac | Wolfe's Neck Center Dairy Farm, Freeport, Maine

Ohio Fall Dairy Grazing Pasture Walk | DeBruin Family Dairy, 7580 Pisgah Rd, Greenfield, OH

NEW 2501 MICHIGAN On Farm Event & Workshop | WingNut Farm, 7211 Cranberry Lake Rd, Jonesville, MI

DGA Education Coordintor Retreat | Kellogg Biological Station/Conference Center & Manor House

MI Farm Field Day - Cultivating Resilience 2022 | Shady Side Farm, 13275 Blair Street, Holland, MI

Pasture Management, OAD and Fall Seasonal Calving on an All Forage Dairy | Bossie Cow Farm, W6174 County Rd. SS, Random Lake, WI 53075

2501: Intro to DGA Webinar | VIA Zoom (link sent once you've registered)

Pasture Walk: Grazing Warm Season Grasses | N3W29350 Bryn Drive, Waukesha, WI 53188

DGA & SFA Summer Pasture Walk | Nyquist Dairy, 3790 Mitchell Ave SW, Cokato, MN

Ohio Regenerative Grazing Pasture Walk | Canal Junction Farm, 18637 Rd 168, Defiance, OH

Managed Grazing Innovation Center Summer Session | dga-national.org/mgic

DGA & Great River Graziers Pasture Walk | Jeremy & Jody Peake Farm/ 323 North Line Dr/ Waukon, IA

*New Summer WI Farm Tour & Workshop | Tomandl Dairy, 247606 Gad Rd, Medford, WI

DGA & SFA MN Summer Pasture Walk | Meier Dairy, 42067 Cty Rd 184, Sauk Centre, MN

*NEW Summer Missouri Farm Tour & Workshop | Mariposa 4, 24955 Jack Ln, Granby, MO

Managing Organic Milk Quality on the Farm | Virtual Workshop

WI State FFA Convention | Allliant Energy Center, Madison, WI

Illinois IFCG Forage Expo | Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E Jackson Street, McComb, IL

*NEW Michigan Grazing Farm Tour & Workshop | Pleasant Lake Dairy, 6130 Pleasant Lake Rd, Ann Arbor, MI

*NEW Michigan Farm Tour & Workshop | Kellogg Biological Station Farm, 10461 N 40th St, Hickory Corners, MI

Winter Pasture Walk | 5025 State Road 23, Dodgeville, WI 53533

*New - WI Farm Tour & Spring Flush Workshop | Grass Dairy & Uplands Cheese, 5025 State Rd 23, Dodgeville, WI

*NEW - Missouri Grazing Farm Tour & Workshop | White Oaks Dairy 2, 3783 State Hwy AA, Sarcoxie, MO

MOSES Farming Conference | LaCrosse Center, LaCrosse, WI

MN SFA-DGA Mentor Roundtable | Shady’s Silver Spur, 133 Maine St., St. Martin 56376

UW River Falls - Spring Career Fair | UWRF University Center, River Falls, WI

UW Platteville Spring Career Fair | 1 University Plaza, Platteville, WI

Winter Pasture Walk | 5025 State Road 23, Dodgeville, WI 53533

Grassworks Grazing Conference | Chula Vista Resort, Wisconsin Dells

Northeast Grazing & Livestock Conference (virtual) | Virtual

DGA Board of Directors Retreat | Wintergreen Conference Center-Clarion Hotel, Wisconsin Dells, WI

Managing Organic Milk Quality on the Farm | Virtual Workshop

West Central WI Fall Grazing Conference | Grand Occasions Event Center, US Hwy 10, Osseo, WI

UW-River Falls Fall Career Fair | University Center @ UWRF

World Dairy Expo 2021 | Alliant Energy Center, Madison, WI

MN DGA-SFA Pasture Walk | Jack Schouweiler Farm, 15963 Will Dr NW, Brandon, MN

DGA Grazing Summit | DGA Home Office/DGA BETA Farms, Medford WI

MN DGA-SFA Pasture Walk | Seven Pines Farm, 18618 County Rd 23, Verndale, MN