I was recently having a discussion with an industry representative about FarmFirst, and a question that was posed to me was, “How is FarmFirst different from other dairy co-ops?” As members, many of you may already be familiar with what sets us apart. However, for those who are newer or may not know our history, let’s revisit the foundation that makes FarmFirst unique.
A Rich History and Strong Foundation
FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative was established in 2013 through the merger of three prominent dairy cooperatives: Family Dairies USA (est. 1971), Manitowoc Milk Producers Cooperative (est. 1933), and Milwaukee Milk Producers Cooperative (est. 1916). This merger also included the acquisition of Fox Valley Quality Control Lab (est. 1995), which was co-owned by Manitowoc Milk Producers and Milwaukee Milk Producers. This merger brought together nearly 225 years of experience, knowledge, and resources, creating a solid foundation for our cooperative.
Not Just Policy
At FarmFirst, our members are at the heart of everything we do. Unlike other cooperatives that may have a more corporate-driven focus, we prioritize the needs and well-being of our members starting right at the farm gate. We make it a point to not only be the voice of our members in Washington D.C., but also to provide services that help promote dairy right down to the local level at events on member farms. We go above and beyond just providing test-verification and tank calibration services; we care about our members on a personal level. A unique benefit to FarmFirst members that almost no other dairy cooperative offers is our Milk Income Loss Program. If a weather-related event causes milk income loss to a member, we are there to help. This program does not cost anything additional to our members and is one of the ways we directly support our farmers and their operations.
Diverse Divisions
We not only provide member services to members that ship to proprietary plants. Our Family Dairies USA division markets milk for dairy producers in eastern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This division does not process any dairy products from our patron milk. The milk is hauled to customer contracted facilities or our intake/reload facility in Kewaskum, WI.
Our lab division, Fox Valley Quality Control Lab, is located in Kaukauna, WI. The lab is a certified lab through WDATCP and EPA that conducts milk and water testing. Our milk testing analysis services include Components, MUN, Total Bacteria, Lab Pasteurized Count, Preliminary Count, Total Coliform, Sediments, Freeze points (Cryoscope), Drug residue, DMSCC, Coliform and E. Coliform water. We also provide diagnostic testing services for Pregnancy, Johne’s disease, Mastitis detection, A1/A2, Leukosis and BVD.
Investment in Youth and Young Producers
FarmFirst truly believes in the importance of our youth. Since 2013, our scholarship program has awarded a total of $248,500 to 261 students. Our scholarship program is not just available for member youth who are going into an agricultural field of study; we want to support our members in helping their children obtain an education regardless of what they choose to study. We are a proud sponsor of the National 4-H Conference and donate to various FFA events and other activities that support youth in agriculture. In the past year, we have ramped up our Young Cooperator program, which was put on hold during the pandemic. This program provides networking and educational opportunities for our young producers, as well as opportunities to become involved in cooperative leadership and policy advocacy right on Capitol Hill.
Whether you are a long-time member or new to the FarmFirst family, rest assured that we are dedicated to providing you with the resources, support, and advocacy that you need for your operations. We are here for you not just on Capitol Hill, but also right there on the farm. That’s the FarmFirst Difference.
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