News
Expansion necessary for next generation
A Michigan dairy farmer says a farm expansion is necessary for the next generation to join the business.
Jim Winkel says he joined his family’s farm in the early ‘80s when his father was milking 100 cows, and as more family members became part of the operation and costs of production increased, they needed to add more cows. “All of our expenses increase, feed, labor, fuel, along with that our income has to increase too.”
He says for the farm to transition to the fifth generation, the family is contemplating when the right time to expand will be with the current market conditions. “We’re maxed out on our facilities and the next generation desires to expand. We would love to see them succeed and I think it would be good for them and us that they succeed just like dad did for us.”
Winkel currently milks more than 1,000 cows with his brother Jack in McBain. The two brothers were recognized as Michigan State University Dairy Farmer of the Year award winners during the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference.
AUDIO: Interview with Jim Winkel
What is your cull rate on a large dairy like yours?