Scott Mericka joined DGA’s board in 2017 and currently serves as DGA Board Vice President and NATC Chair. He is also a retired Mentor for Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship and considers himself fortunate to have seen a very successful and engaged Apprentice through the program.

In 2014, the Merickas purchased Grass Dairy, a pasture-based dairy operation, and Uplands Cheese Company, an artisanal cheese business, from their employers and created a 50/50 partnership with the cheesemaker. In August of 2025, the Merickas sold their shares of the dairy businesses and have since chartered a new course.

Currently, Scott is working as a substitute teacher in the Mineral Point Schools and heads up the home front to support his wife’s thriving career as a Nurse at their rural hospital. Community service remains a pivotal part of Scott’s life, and he serves as a Spanish language interpreter for a free healthcare clinic and English literacy classes for parents and families.

Mentoring and strengthening pasture-based dairy systems was one of Scott’s true passions during his dairy career. Currently on Scott’s dashboard, advocacy for migrant farm workers and improving social equity in agricultural communities top his list.

As part of the Alliance board, Scott is excited to help the program blossom and reshape rural America.

In 2014, the Merickas purchased Grass Dairy, a pasture-based dairy operation, and Uplands Cheese Company, an artisanal cheese business, from their employers and created a 50/50 partnership with the cheesemaker. In August of 2025, the Merickas sold their shares of the dairy businesses and have since chartered a new course.

Currently, Scott is working as a substitute teacher in the Mineral Point Schools and heads up the home front to support his wife’s thriving career as a Nurse at their rural hospital. Community service remains a pivotal part of Scott’s life, and he serves as a Spanish language interpreter for a free healthcare clinic and English literacy classes for parents and families.

Mentoring and strengthening pasture-based dairy systems was one of Scott’s true passions during his dairy career. Currently on Scott’s dashboard, advocacy for migrant farm workers and improving social equity in agricultural communities top his list.

As part of the Alliance board, Scott is excited to help the program blossom and reshape rural America.