Farmer Resilience

The Invisible Enemy: The Audacity and Faith of One Incredible Wisconsin Dairy Family

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 13:58:02 GMT

In the world of dairy farming, we often talk about the things we can see: the quality of the silage, the conformation of a heifer or the rising numbers on a milk check. But for the Den Hoed family in northern Wisconsin, the most defining battle of the last 17 years has been against an enemy that is entirely invisible. It is a story of a silent killer that nearly broke their business, but instead, forged a family legacy of unshakable faith and the grit to build something entirely new from the ground up.

The story of Den Hoed Dairy doesn’t begin in the cabin country of Wisconsin. It begins in the Yakima Valley of Washington, where Walt Den Hoed grew up milking cows alongside his father and brothers. By 2008, the operation had grown to 1,200 cows. But that year, a storm hit: Walt’s father passed away from cancer, and the family realized — too late — that no succession planning had been done.

In 2010, at age 40, Walt faced a crossroads. He could stay in the shadow of a fractured legacy, or he could take a leap of faith. With his wife, Denise, and their children, he looked at seven dairies across the Midwest. They eventually settled on a site in northern Wisconsin, arriving with nothing more than two tractors, a loader and a determination to start over.

“We didn’t bring any cows,” Walt recalls. “We bought everything here. We didn’t know then why the former owner had sold the farm. We found out soon enough.”

(Den Hoed Dairy)

The Silent Killer: 17 Years of Stray Voltage

What the Den Hoeds had unknowingly purchased was a stray voltage farm. Located precisely between two electrical substations, the earth beneath their feet was a conduit for balancing energy. For the cows, it was a living nightmare.

“It affects their liver,” Walt explains, his voice heavy with the memory of the struggle. “The cows wouldn’t drink.”

At their lowest point, the cows were only taking in 13 gallons of water a day.

“We were down to 44 pounds of milk on 3x milking,” says Colton Den Hoed. “They wouldn’t even let their milk down in the parlor; they’d get back to the stalls and just start dripping. It was like they were being suppressed from the inside out.”

The numbers were staggering and, for any other business, it would have been a death sentence. The farm carried a 44% cull rate and a 10% death rate. In the winter, production hovered at 60 lb.; in the summer, 75 lb. Compared to the 90 lb.-plus averages they had achieved in Washington, the Den Hoeds were merely surviving in a state of constant “IV tube” management.

“We were in the shed at 3 a.m. in -25°F-below weather, building little pens to warm up calves that were dying because the stray voltage prevents calcium transfer,” Denise says. “They couldn’t keep themselves warm. We were doing whatever it took to save them, but you can’t out-farm physics.”

(Den Hoed Dairy)

The Legacy Farmer Pivot: Permission to Dream Again

For years, the family lived in a survival bubble. The Den Hoeds say when you are buried in the daily trauma of losing animals and fighting a plummeting milk check, you stop dreaming. You focus on the next bill, the next IV bag and the next sunrise.

The turning point came a year and a half ago when the family connected with Legacy Farmer. They wanted a cold, hard audit of their operation. They were prepared for the criticism. In fact, they invited it.

“We wanted to find the holes,” says Jayce Den Hoed. “We wanted to know where we were failing. But they dug into our portfolio for two months and came back with something we didn’t expect. They told us, ‘You guys can’t get any more efficient. The only thing you’re doing wrong is milk production, and you can’t help that in this facility.’”

That revelation was the green light the family needed. The audit proved their do-it-all philosophy — hauling their own milk, harvesting 1,700 acres of their own feed and handling every equipment repair in-house — had created a foundation of extreme efficiency. If they could just get the cows onto clean ground, the sky was the limit.

“We had a day of depression when we saw the reality of the numbers needed to build new,” Colton says. “But we all came back to the table with the same vision. We knew we had the equity. We just needed the courage to jump.”

Building from Scratch: 6 Miles to Freedom

The Den Hoeds are currently in the middle of a massive transformation. Just 6 miles away from their current death trap, they are building a brand-new facility from scratch. The new dairy will feature a double-20 parallel parlor and a state-of-the-art feed center.

The goal is to move the milking herd, dry cows and close-ups to the new site by November. The original farm will be repurposed for heifers and calves, who seem better able to handle the environmental stress until they reach breeding age.

“The bank approval was a miracle,” Denise says. “We spent months putting together a portfolio — projections for years to come, profit and loss statements, every detail laid out. We had a three-hour meeting with the board, and within 90 days, we had the approval. Our lender actually grew up on a farm that was also plagued by stray voltage. She understood our heart because she had lived our pain.”

(Den Hoed Dairy)

The Next Generation: Wired for the Legacy

Perhaps the most compelling part of the Den Hoed story is the two young men standing alongside Walt. In an era where the average age of the American farmer is rising, Jayce and Colton bring that figure down considerably. They are hardworking, tech-savvy and deeply committed to the family brand.

Jayce, who bought his first 100 acres at age 18, even before he graduated high school, handles the crop inputs and the beef side of the business.

“I’ve always wanted to farm,” he says. “You teach your kids responsibility, and that’s missing in our culture today.”

Colton, who cares for the youngstock, has taken the Den Hoed story to the world through social media, where he has built a following of nearly 200,000 people. He documents the good, the bad and the muddy.

“I want to show people what we do. I’ve had kids from small towns come through the barn who have never seen a cow,” Colton says. “The disconnect is huge, and we’re trying to bridge it.”

The brothers haven’t always seen eye-to-eye — they admit to butting heads in their younger years — but the shared trauma of the stray voltage years and the shared vision of the new build have welded them together.

(Den Hoed Dairy)

A Culture of “Familia”

The Den Hoeds don’t just treat each other like family; they extend that culture to their team. When they moved to Wisconsin, they struggled to find help until they recruited from the local Hispanic community. Today, they have four employees who have been with them for years.

“We treat them like family,” Colton says. “We have dinners together. We bring them donuts. We know about their lives. It’s not just a number on a payroll; it’s a relationship. That morale is why they stay, even when the facility was a struggle to work in.”

This focus on people is the secret sauce of their efficiency. By hauling their own milk, they save nearly $1.10 per cwt. — a figure that adds up to hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.

“If we didn’t do it ourselves, we wouldn’t be here,” Walt says simply.

The Audacity of Faith

Woven through every conversation with the Den Hoeds is a profound sense of faith. In their barn, a sign reads “In God We Trust,” and it isn’t just for show.

“When we put that sign up, it felt like our problems got worse,” Walt says with a wry smile. “It was like Satan went to work harder. But it just made us pray harder. We stopped praying for God to ‘fix’ the farm and started praying for wisdom. And that’s when the pieces started falling into place.”

They see God’s hand in the timing of the Legacy Farmer audit, in the specific background of their lender and even in the naysayers who told them they would fail.

“You’re always going to have people who think you’re nuts,” Walt says. “But we’ve learned to manifest the positive. You don’t go forward unless you poke your head out of the shell. We’re taking a leap of faith because we believe this industry is worth it, and we believe our family is worth it.”

Looking Toward November

As the construction crews move dirt at the new site 6 miles away, the Den Hoeds are already seeing the cumulative wins. Their pregnancy rate has surged from 23% to nearly 50% after a shift in management protocols. Their days in milk have dropped from 215 to 160. Though these changes did not translate to a single extra pound at their current facility, the engine is being tuned for the big move.

“We need hope,” Denise says. “We were in that survival pool for so long we didn’t realize how depressed we were. We had actually stopped dreaming.”

But the dreams are back. In November, when the first trailer load of cows pulls into the clean parlor of the new facility, it won’t just be a move of livestock. It will be the culmination of 17 years of perseverance. It will be the moment the invisible enemy finally loses its grip.

As the rain falls over the Wisconsin cabin country, the Den Hoed family gathers for their daily lunch — a tradition that keeps them connected and grounded. They joke, they plan and they pray. They are a testament to the fact that the most valuable asset on any dairy isn’t the quota or the equipment — it’s the people who refuse to quit.

The Den Hoeds are no longer just surviving. They are building a legacy that will outlast the hardships and the stray voltage. They are proving that when you combine elite efficiency with an audacious faith, the cream always rises to the top.

Don't Break, Build: A Farmer's Playbook for Taking Control of Your Mind

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 19:49:03 GMT

It was already shaping up to be one of those days.

An unexpected bill is due, and the money just isn’t there. The kids are fighting again. Understandably, your wife is over it, and now it’s your fault. One of your employees just called to say the new group of wean pigs is sick. It’s all a part of a life, but sometimes it just stacks up to be too much.

“In a world of unpredictability with so many factors at play on any given day, it’s easy to be mentally or emotionally hijacked by elements out of our control,” says Athena Diesch-Chham with Restorative Path Counseling and Wellbeing. “Stress and anxiety thrive in this environment. However, the long-term effects of that are real.”

Farming stress will never go away, so how can you get more grit or become more resilient to that stress?

One expert says it starts by paying attention to the present.

“Don’t think about what happened yesterday or worry about what is happening tomorrow,” says Cheri Burcham, with University of Illinois Extension. “Focus on what you are doing and feeling in the very moment.”

Diesch-Chham likes to think of it as “being where your feet are.”

“So often brains are hijacked by stress and launch us mentally to a different space either in the past or in the future,” Diesch-Chham adds. “Mindfulness is just asking for our whole selves to be here in this moment, wherever our feet are planted.”

Pay Attention

This concept of truly being “in the moment” not only reduces stress, but research shows it can also lower blood pressure, increase immunity and reduce anxiety and depression, Burcham says.

When you intentionally notice where you are, you can recognize potential challenges sooner, says Abigail Cudney with Michigan State University Extension . Instead of habitually reacting to stress with intense anger, emotional shutdown, negative thinking or overthinking, this intentional awareness helps rewire the brain through a process called neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to grow and adapt to new experiences.

Consider the attention you pay when walking through the barn. You use all your senses to make assessments and determine what’s going on all around you.

“Whether it’s walking the barn or enjoying the fall scenery, naming something you are currently experiencing for each of the five senses is another way to practice mindfulness,” Diesch-Chham says. “This doesn’t have to be complicated – the whole goal is to bring mind and body to the same place.”

5 Senses Technique

Just Breathe

The fight or flight response animals have when stress strikes is the same thing that happens in people. As a review, the vagus nerve, which runs from the base of the brain and branches out to the organs, serves as a conduit of chemicals/hormones that are activated automatically/reflexively by the sympathetic nervous system. This is an involuntary and adaptive process that increases respiration and blood flow to prepare the body for quick and protective action, such as fighting or fleeing. Once the perceived threat has passed or been managed successfully, the stress response also passes and respiration, blood pressure, and heart rate return to a normal steady state, according to the Yale School of Medicine .

Through deep breathing, the vagus nerve can be stimulated intentionally to help restore, mitigate and even prevent these physical and psychological reactions. Slow, even breaths that originate deep within the abdomen stimulate the vagus nerve in a way that signals safety and cues the body and mind to relax, restore, and release chronic and unhealthy patterns.

“Deep breathing can be practiced anywhere and in so many ways – so it is very accessible and easy for farmers to practice,” Burcham explains. “Practice in the field or even while operating machinery.”

Let Go of What You Can’t Control

Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of “being where your feet are” is realizing you can’t control it all.

“Working towards recognizing what truly is within our individual control and then choosing to focus our energy on managing what we can control to improve our overall mental health and stress, helps us remain resilient through the pieces that are outside of our control,” Diesch-Chham says.

Adversity happens. Markets will crash. Animals will get sick. Disease will strike. Families will argue. But you can recover faster from those stresses by staying grounded in the moment, aligning your thoughts and emotions with reality.

Resources to Help Build Resilience:
North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center

Mindfulness: University of Illinois Extension

Building Resilience with Mindfulness

Discover the Passionate Young Visionary Leading Holstein Association's Future

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 15:10:58 GMT

Lindsey Worden’s journey through the dairy industry is one marked by growth, passion, and a relentless pursuit of betterment. At just 40 years old, she was appointed as the chief executive officer of the Holstein Association USA, a position that perfectly highlights her lifelong dedication to dairy farming and purebred genetics.

Worden’s story begins on a family dairy farm in New York, where her early childhood was steeped in the world of agriculture. Her father became very interested in learning more about western style of dairying and so the family made the bold move to New Mexico, which was in a growth mode at the time. This move transitioned them from milking 65 cows in the Northeast to 1,400 cows in the southwest. This transition exposed Worden to diverse farming techniques and further fueled her interest in the dairy industry.

Passion for Youth Development
Her involvement with youth development began at an early age in New Mexico. Worden remembers helping with the classification of their cattle, to which Worden fondly recalls getting to take the day off school to help with that.

“That’s really how I started getting interested in dairy,” she shares. “I love the genetic side of things.”

Heavily involved in 4-H, Worden participated in showing dairy heifers, pigs, and horses. Her family supported her and her brothers by building a barn to house their show heifers, thereby nurturing her budding interest in animal husbandry and community involvement.

“4-H was my sport,” she enthusiastically recalls.

Transition to College and the Dairy Industry
Worden’s desire to continue in the dairy sector influenced her educational pursuits. Through connections, she was introduced to the University of Wisconsin, Madison, where she was drawn to dual majoring in Dairy Science and Life Science Communications.

During her college summers, Worden undertook roles that further deepened her understanding of the industry. From assisting in her parents’ dairy dispersal that had them selling their New Mexico dairy and their cows that had them going cross country again to dairy in central New York to interning at the University of Wisconsin Extension and the Holstein Foundation, each experience prepared her for a career at the Holstein Association.

“To think back, I was very fortunate to experience the dairy industry in different parts of the country,” Worden shares, noting during college she was able to visit high genetic farms that she only dreamed of visiting.

Leading the Holstein Association USA
Little did Worden know that her last internship in Brattleboro, Vt., would set the stage for her future career that has spanned nearly 18 years with the Holstein Association. In her new role as CEO, she faces the challenge of leading an organization that has significantly impacted the dairy industry. Her approach focuses on encouraging innovation, supporting membership and advancing genetic solutions.

“I first started less than 20 feet away from where I’m at now,” she shares. “I firmly believe everything happens for a reason and as I kind of look at how I’ve migrated through my life, I feel fortunate to have met some wonderful people along the way. Those people believed in me and gave me great opportunities. So, I just feel really lucky. I I love what I do, I love working for membership organization. I’ve got about a real passion for the registered cattle, and I’m excited about the future of the industry.”

While Worden believes her life roadmap can be inspiring to other young dairy kids, she says, two things stuck out on what helped lead to her success.

Advice to Young Dairy Enthusiasts
Worden acknowledges her success stemmed from her willingness to embrace challenges and take risks. She encourages young dairy enthusiasts to step outside their comfort zones and seize opportunities, even if they feel unqualified. Her own move to Wisconsin, though daunting, led her down a path that shaped her life’s trajectory.

“Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. It was a big deal for me to move to Wisconsin from New Mexico, a totally different culture. I didn’t know anybody. This was really before cell phones were something that teenagers just had. My parents drove me up there and dropped me off, and I had a calling card. There was a phone on the wall of the house, and I didn’t know a soul. And, if I hadn’t taken that internship and did something very uncomfortable, my life would be a totally different trajectory,” she shares, encouraging others to attend activities, go to conferences and put themselves in situations where they meet new people.

“Also, say yes to opportunities,” she says. “Even if you don’t feel like you’re ready, or you don’t think you’re qualified, and you’re scared. I say, do it.”

Impact of Mentorship
Acknowledging the impact of her mentor, John Meyer, Holstein Association’s previous CEO of more than two decades, Worden emphasizes the importance of compassion and people-centric leadership. She aims to incorporate these values into her role, recognizing that the industry is as much about people as it is about cows.

“John’s been a tremendous mentor for my entire career,” she notes, sharing that she has learned a great deal from him. “John always cared about people, whether it’s our employees or our members. He is so personable. He took time to learn people’s names and learn their stories. And when he talked to people, you could see that he truly cared.”

Future of the Dairy Industry
Under Worden’s leadership, the Holstein Association continues to embrace genomics and genetic advancements, propelling the breed forward. In the past two decades, Holstein cows have seen remarkable improvements in milk production and quality, thanks to dedicated dairy farmers focusing on economically vital traits.

Worden points out that over the last two decades Holstein cows have produced 12% more milk, 25% more fat and 19% more protein.

“This is incredible,” she says, noting that farm management comes into play, but so does genetic improvements. “The focus that dairy farmers have placed on trying to breed better cattle, using the best bulls that they can and really focusing on those economically important traits is incredible.”

Embrace Change and Seizing Opportunities
Looking ahead, Holstein Association is committed to sustainability and feed efficiency, exploring new traits like residual feed intake. Worden notes that dairy producers are eager to employ these tools, underscoring their adaptability and forward-thinking nature.

“It’s great to just always have that sounding board of directors that says, ‘this is our reality,’” she says, noting the conversation in the board room is linked back to what’s going to move the needle for those that milk cows every single day of the year.

Worden may have only had one employer since college, but her passion and dedication for dairy could easily fill a barn. Her leadership at the Holstein Association USA is paving the way for innovative practices that will benefit dairy farmers and the industry for years to come. Through her inspiring story, Worden illustrates that with readiness to embrace change and seize opportunities, great achievements are possible.

Your Next Read:
This Iowa Dairy Started With a Dream in 2014, And Now It’s One of the Most State-of-the-Art Farms You’ll Find in the U.S.

The Ultimate Gift: Dairy Farmer Becomes Lifesaving Hero by Donating Both His Liver and Kidney

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 15:08:10 GMT

When one thinks of a dairy farmer, the image often conjured is that of a hardworking individual, dedicated to the care of their cattle and land. Brian Forrest, who leads with a kind-hearted and giving spirit at his family farm, Maple Ridge Dairy near Stratford, Wisconsin, epitomizes this image and so much more.

Forrest works tirelessly alongside his wife, Elaine, and their five children, tending to roughly 2,000 cows and farming 4,000 acres. Although farming is undeniably a demanding job, Forrest thrives on the mixture of hard work and familial teamwork it entails.

Leadership Beyond Farming
Away from the hustle and bustle of farming, Forrest dedicates his time in boardrooms and volunteering on various committees and organizations. His contributions as a leader have not gone unnoticed as he was awarded the Dean Strauss Leadership Award at the Professional Dairy Producers (PDP) Annual Meeting earlier this year.

“Ask anyone who knows Brian and they’ll tell you he’d give you the shirt off his back without blinking, as his track record clearly shows,” Shelly Mayer, Executive Director of PDP, shares. “I’ve had the opportunity to work directly with Brian for several years and I can say firsthand that he is one of the most thoughtful, compassionate people one could ever hope to work with.”

Maple Ridge has earned recognition on state and national levels, including Focus on Energy’s 2022 Energy Efficiency Excellence Award and platinum-level recognition in 2020 from the National Mastitis Council for the dairy’s consistently low Somatic Cell Count. Forrest was also named a 2021 Wisconsin Agriculturist Master Agriculturist. Forrest serves as Board Chair of Dairy’s Foundation and also served on the PDP board of directors for six years, acting as treasurer for three years. He’s an FFA alumnus and regularly supports the FFA.

A Selfless Donor
Forrest’s generosity extends beyond his time and expertise. In July 2019, he served as a living liver donor for his cousin Richard Gillette, who was battling end-stage liver disease.

“Richard is one of five brothers who I had always looked up to when I was a kid,” Forrest fondly recalls. “When they were young, all five of them came up from Illinois during the summer to help out on my dad’s farm in Stratford.”

Two of the five brothers died in their 50s - and Forrest didn’t want to see a third Gillette brother die before his time. And, as sick as Richard was in the spring of 2019, he was unlikely to receive a new liver from a deceased donor in time to save his life. Too many patients were ahead of him on the transplant list - and most of them were even sicker. Forrest offered to see if he could be a match.

“I thought maybe I could be a donor. I’m older, but I have O-negative blood.” After discussing it with his wife and giving it careful thought, he decided to go through with the donation.

A football fan at heart, Forrest knows that when it’s game day, rivalries don’t matter. Or least this was the case for the fourth-generation dairy farmer.

“He’s a Bears fan. I’m a Packer fan. But we were united the morning that we both met with our incredible surgeons,” Forrest remembers back to the day of live transplant at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Medical Hospital. We joked together right before the surgery that after he gets part of my liver, he very well may come out a Packers fan! He beamingly shares that his cousin recovered well. “It was a tough road for a while, but it was all worthwhile.”

Four years later, Forrest donated a kidney to an anonymous recipient, demonstrating his willingness to help those in need yet again.

The kidney he donated went to a person in Virginia. The surgeon showed Forrest a picture of his kidney functioning perfectly inside the recipient the evening after his surgery.

“It was pink inside the recipient and doing its job,” Forrest shared emotionally. “It is all so remarkable.”

Both surgeries required others to pick up the ‘slack’ from Forrest back at the dairy. He proudly shares that he is lucky to have such a great village that could help out while he took 6-8 weeks to fully recover from both surgeries.

“I would do this again in a heartbeat,” he shares. “There is no price tag for giving someone life and the whole experience brought my family closer together.”

A Farmer’s Faith
Forrest says the feeling of helping someone else is hard to describe but incredibly fulfilling.

“I know God is driving the way,” he says. “I’m not sure what direction we are heading, but I know he is in the driver’s seat and I’m in the backseat.”

When it comes to farming, Forrest—like most farmers—believes in a better tomorrow. Before his surgeries, Forrest had to undergo a mental health evaluation, ensuring he was prepared for all eventualities, even the possibility of the surgery not resulting in success.

“I go back to the highs and lows of farming. With milk prices and Mother Nature, you must be okay with not being in control,” he says.

Forrest’s mindset of focusing on what can go right instead of what could go wrong is just his natural way of thinking. This positive attitude has helped foster a healthy and positive culture at Maple Ridge Dairy, where 34 full-time employees work in harmony.

“Our mission and values are communicated, and we all work towards the same goal,” he shares.

In an industry full of challenges and unpredictability, this Wisconsin dairy farmer stands out not just for his farming practices but for his exemplary character and unwavering optimism. Whether on the farm, in the operating room, or during acts of heroism, Forrest truly embodies a spirit of selflessness and resilience.

“I try to make more deposits than withdrawals,” he says. “There are good days and bad days, but we really need to focus on the good. My hopes are that others who hear my story also consider organ donation. UW Madison is an incredible resource and I’d be happy to talk to anyone whose heart has tugged on them regarding organ donation. I have no regrets.”

The Last Frontier: The Story of Alaska’s Only Dairy Farm

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 15:06:58 GMT

In a land where harsh conditions are the norm, one family dared to dream the impossible. Grit, determination, and unwavering passion are the special ingredients for the only dairy farm in Alaska.

Pioneering this unique operation required more than just practical skills and knowledge of dairy farming. It demanded a relentless commitment to overcoming adversity. Scott Plagerman and his family faced frigid temperatures, logistical hurdles, and the constant need to innovate. Despite these challenges, their dedication never wavered. They rolled up their sleeves and put in the hard work necessary to make their dream a reality.

Plagerman grew up on a dairy farm in Lynden, Washington. After graduating high school, he ventured out on his own, engaging in custom harvesting and raising heifers. Eventually, he started milking cows on his purchased farm. However, fate had other plans, and an opportunity to move to Alaska arose, marking the beginning of a new chapter.

In 2009, Plagerman purchased a hay farm that also served as a boarding facility for horses during winter. This new venture sparked an idea: raising bison. Always on the lookout for new revenue streams, Plagerman, his wife, and their two adult sons considered starting a dairy, despite the overwhelming challenges.

Overcoming Initial Challenges
The concept of a dairy farm in Alaska was daunting. With dairy being nonexistent in the state, the idea seemed improbable due to the high costs of trucking essentials 2,000 miles from the mainland.

“Hay farming was a struggle due to weather and markets. The kids talked me into dairy and we started putting together a plan for it,” Plagerman shares.

The family bought land and acquired another 640 acres, which included a 40 x 100 ft building. Despite its crude structure—a dirt floor and metal walls—they began milking a handful of cows, marking the inception of their dairy farm.

Building the Dream
In the fall of 2020, construction on the barn commenced. They insulated the building, poured concrete, and installed a Lely robot to milk the cows. A processing plant was added from square one, knowing that if they were to milk cows, they would also need to process the milk.

“We are the only dairy in the state of Alaska,” Plagerman states.

Currently, Alaska Range Dairy in Delta Junction milks 65 cows, aspiring to increase their cow numbers. They installed a second robot last year but faced the challenge of whether a large grocery chain would purchase their milk.

“We ran into some huge roadblocks,” Plagerman recalls, with big stores hesitant to work with a small operation. Lost paperwork even resulted in dumped milk, testing the family’s patience.

Turning the Tide
Despite these setbacks, Plagerman and his family remained steadfast due to their commitment to food security.

“Food security is a real thing in Alaska,” he explains, noting that any disruption can add to this problem quickly.

Now, working with a large-retail store, Plagerman says he feels like they have a glimmer of hope in their hearts and can see their dairy becoming the main source of income for their farm.

Feeding the Future
Passionately driven by their mission, Plagerman emphasizes the importance of locally sourced milk.

“It is extremely satisfying knowing that you are providing a wholesome product to help feed your community,” he says, acknowledging that dairying in Alaska is not for the faint-hearted. Living in such a unique environment means they must figure things out independently.

Expanding Horizons
Beyond dairy, the family farms 1,200 acres of hay, 200 acres of barley, 200 acres of yellow field peas—a protein source for the cattle—and some canola. They also raise 200 head of bison, processing and selling the meat to local restaurants. Diversifying into dairy provided an additional profit source, promoting the farm’s long-term viability.

Plagerman tries to keep that in mind. Dairying is no easy job and doing this in a state like Alaska isn’t for the faint of hearts. For example, all of the farm’s feed is grown locally, as shipping costs are prohibitive.

“The costs basically double or triple,” Plagerman notes, highlighting the absence of back hauls and the necessity of paying for a truck both ways. “We’re completely on our own. We’ve lived here long enough that we know we have to figure it out.”

Alaska’s Harsh Conditions
The decision to go with robotic milking was an easy one, as there is no real agricultural labor in the state.

“There is not much labor for anything around here, so we have to be as efficient as possible,” Scott says, sharing that they feed all the cows via the robots to simplify the work that needs to be done. “We also use Discovery scrapers.”

Plagerman shares that last winter’s temperature dropped to minus 68 degrees. The area is described as a high plains desert, where they only get around 12 inches of moisture annually.

Careful precautions are taken from the beginning, including how they built their facility.

“Everything is very well insulated,” he adds. “You need to prepare and build for the harsh conditions from the beginning. We have in-floor heating, and we try to keep the barn from above freezing.”

Plagerman says locals don’t really notice the lack of daylight, they just plan their days accordingly and that also includes farming.

“We still have four hours of good light during winter,” he shares, noting that is a good time to take care of the outside chores like caring for the bison and hay. “It is all about being as efficient as possible, even with our time.”

The Plagermans epitomize perseverance and innovation. Through their hard work and unyielding resolve, they continue to carve out a niche, proving that even in the harshest conditions, dreams can flourish.

Your Next Read
Love For Lexi: A Wisconsin Dairy Farm Kid’s Big Battle For a New Heart

Finding Meaning in Passionate Work

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 15:42:36 GMT

When someone passes away, it naturally serves as a reminder that tomorrow is not guaranteed and nobody knows when the good Lord will call us home. Recently, I learned of the sudden passing of one of my colleagues, Greg Henderson, who was the editorial director for our beef brand, Drovers. My heart sank upon hearing the news, and I was struck by a profound sense of loss.

A Heartfelt Farewell
Greg was on the verge of retirement, and it broke my heart to think that he didn’t get to enjoy those years of peace and relaxation. The sorrow I felt when my father passed away in 2016 came flooding back. My father had suffered a massive stroke in 2008 and spent nearly five weeks in the ICU years before his passing and Greg’s passing brought back all those painful memories.

Lessons Learned
Years before my father’s stroke, I remember having a conversation with him about not taking time off. He was incredibly proud of the fact that he milked cows every day, twice a day for decades. “I’m sure I hold some kind of record,” he once told me with a sense of pride. As my dad lay in the ICU after his stroke, I recalled that ‘record’ and felt an overwhelming urge to shake him and tell him, “Nobody cared about your record.” But, through tears and with time, I came to understand that the record meant a lot to him.

My father grew up incredibly poor – beyond my comprehension – and was determined to build a better life for his own family. He was devoted to providing the financial and emotional support that his own family had failed to provide for him. So, dad poured himself into his work of being a dairy farmer and he was so proud of the farm and family he built.

The Heart of a Rancher
Greg’s journey in the beef industry was more than just a career; it was his life’s purpose. Much like my late father, who loved his work, Greg was deeply committed to the ranchers he served. He always had their back. His connection to the beef audience wasn’t just professional; it was personal. Greg understood the challenges, joys, and intricacies of ranch life because he was one of them. This allowed him to create content that was not only informative but also resonated with the heart and soul of the rancher community.

As I reflect on Greg’s life and work, I am reminded of my late father and the common thread that binds passionate individuals like them. They both missed out on what many might call the ‘easy years,’ but they gained something much more valuable in return—the joy and fulfillment of doing work they loved.

9 Rules Parents Throw Out the Window During Fair Week

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 21:14:03 GMT

This story originally appeared in August 2023. It recently placed third in the Ag Communicators Network’s Contest for humorous writing and it received an honorable mention in miscellaneous writing in the Livestock Publication’s Council’s Contest.

We try to be good parents by setting boundaries for our kids. When it’s all said and done, we hope we raise decent humans who are kind, make good choices and respect others.

But let’s be real.

During fair week, that all goes out the window. We are parenting to survive. There are no blue ribbons for “Mom of the Week” or “Dad of the Day,” so do what you gotta do to get through the hot calves, grumpy barrows, whiny goats, bored lambs and tired kids.

To protect the innocence of all parents involved, here’s an anonymous list of good parenting rules that go out the window during fair week:

(Farm Journal)

1. Eat healthy meals and snacks.

Fair week requires fuel – and fuel that’s “sealed” from shavings and dust. Oh sure, there are probably many pre-packaged nutritious snacks out there. But kids don’t like them. They are the snacks that live on for years in the snack tub and get overlooked for Cool Ranch Doritos, Fruit Snacks and Oreos. The reality is – even if you don’t buy those unhealthy snacks for your kids – they find them. There is power in numbers and these kids know how to come together when it comes to food and find the weakest links.

(Farm Journal)

2. Don’t talk to strangers.

Although we typically may not encourage our kids to strike up conversations with strangers, when they are in the livestock barn with their animals, they are encouraged (and praised) for engaging with fairgoers in an attempt to help them learn more about livestock and agriculture in general. “We encourage kids to ‘agvocate,’” one mom says. “So much for ‘don’t talk to strangers.’”

3. Take a bath before bedtime.

After a long day at the fair, there is perhaps nothing more important than getting a good bath before bedtime. But when your kids are little, one mom adamantly believes swimming in the hotel pool counts as bathing. You’ve only got so much time and energy, pool “baths” are lifesavers and help build friendships along the way with buddies at the pool.

(Farm Journal)

4. Don’t drink caffeine.

A lot of stock show kids are also athletes who avoid caffeine throughout the year...except for fair week. During fair week, some parents do crazy things like let their 9-year-old try her first Mountain Dew at 10 p.m. after the show ends because they know they aren’t going to be able to get her to bed for hours yet. May as well make those last hours of the day more fun for all!

5. Tell your parents where you are at all times.

Many parents agree they give their kids more freedom at the fair because they are surrounded by “their people.” Stock show parents look out for each other’s kids. It’s truly a family, one mom points out, and sometimes you end up getting more than your fair share of “children” at your pens. This is a good thing, so soak it all in while you can and be glad they chose to hang out near your family.

(Farm Journal)

6. Get 8 hours of sleep.

The stock show life isn’t about getting a lot of sleep. It’s about doing everything you can to make your animal’s life better. That means early mornings and late nights, with little time for sleep in between. Parents, let that guilt ride when your kids don’t get a lot of sleep because they will recover at some point. In the meantime, equip yourself with extra patience.

(Farm Journal)

7. Abide by screen time limits.

Your oldest child is getting ready to go into the ring and your youngest starts to complain that he is bored. As much as we know we shouldn’t do it, it’s acceptable during fair week to extend the screen time and hand them your phone. A quiet kid means a parent who gets to watch their sibling show. Sometimes you’ve gotta do what you’ve gotta do.

(Farm Journal)

8. Don’t accept bribes.

Bribing may be used from time to time to get little ones to behave during fair week. Although not normal practice, bribes of dipping dots or golf cart rides help parents who may be close to losing their mind survive a crazy show week. One mom who admits to the occasional bribe says, “The more kids and animals we have, the more desperate we get at times!”

9. Don’t miss curfew.

For the older kids, many stock show parents admit they modify curfew a bit during the fair because it’s often the only time they get to see some of their friends. However, one mom says, “We want our son to have fun spending time with his friends that he only sees at the fair after working hard all day long, but it’s a fine balance as we want to make sure he gets enough sleep so he can work all day and function again the next day.”

Despite what you think of this list of parenting rules that go out the window during fair week, I truly believe stock show parents are some of the best around. Part of being a good parent is knowing when to flex and when to stand firm. Stock show kids have a pretty intense schedule filled with commitments and responsibilities. Fair week is a great opportunity to loosen the strings a little, focus on building friendships and letting things like hygiene and nutrition go...for just a few days.

Photos submitted by Ellen Homann, Blake and Wravenna Bloomberg, Sarah Horner, Shelia Grobosky, Doug Hankes and Jennifer Shike.

Read More:

There’s Just Something About Stock Show Friends

The Stock Show “Prize” We Need to Talk More About

Unpopular County Fair Opinion

The Company You Keep Matters

What Swine Veterinarians Need Most Right Now

Mon, 20 May 2024 21:20:38 GMT

Veterinarian Jana Morgan was presented with a unique opportunity 15 years ago to be part of a first-time gathering of young veterinarians in the swine industry. DVM Swine Academy, organized by Boehringer Ingelheim, had one simple goal: to create a peer group for new veterinarians to be able to learn from key opinion leaders in the industry, to discuss issues they were encountering in their careers, and to create a safe environment for them to open up and build their knowledge together.

“I consider many of those people in my DVM Swine Academy group good friends still today,” Morgan says. “No one is scared to call anyone or to send an email to the group. No one ever makes you feel like you’ve asked a dumb question. That’s one of the goals behind it – to form a peer group of veterinarians that get to know each other on a personal and professional level.”

Through the years, Morgan has stepped up to manage DVM Swine Academy in addition to her role as a key account veterinarian at Boehringer Ingelheim. From setting up modules to organizing speakers to working with the young veterinarians, Morgan says she really loves getting to lead DVM Swine Academy.

“Boehringer Ingelheim sees value in helping young veterinarians ask questions and learn. We hope it’s a way we can help them create their own value and bring something back to the producer, too,” she says.

Intentional Interaction

Although the swine industry is small enough that you will likely meet or see people again and again at professional meetings, Morgan believes it’s a different result when you are put into a small group together and encouraged to interact at a deeper level.

“When you know you can talk about things in a room where everyone is open for discussions, and you know you won’t be judged by bringing up whatever issue you might be seeing or dealing with, it builds confidence,” Morgan says.

DVM Swine Academy kicked off its 8th class in April. A new class forms every two years and is limited to 20 or less people by invitation or recommendation. The goal is to bring in veterinarians with less than five years of experience to form a group that works through six modules during the course of two years. The modules cover a variety of important and relevant topics from immunology and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) to conflict resolution and ventilation. Each group’s topics vary slightly as opportunities are created for participants to help select the topics of importance for the modules.

“We meet in a relaxed location without a lot of bells and whistles,” Morgan says. “We have dinner on the first evening together. We talk and get to know people on a different level. I believe the personal component helps break down walls and establish that it is a safe place to share.”

Cutting-Edge Conversations

Boehringer Ingelheim chooses top-notch experts to present, she adds. They want it to be a worthwhile learning experience for everyone involved. Daniel Linhares, professor and director of graduate education at Iowa State University, is one of the featured speakers who has presented many times over the years on PRRS management.

“That includes monitoring, response to PRRS, control and elimination strategies,” Linhares says. “PRRS virus is the single most important pathogen that impacts pigs and their ability to reach their full genetic potential. It’s a big threat in terms of domestic disease in our country.”

He values the opportunity to hear from the younger veterinarians and discover what’s working and what’s not for them in terms of PRRS management methods.

“Each participant brings their own perspectives,” Linhares says. “We always learn because we gain insight into their minds. It’s valuable to us to know what areas need further research or exploration. We discover needs and gaps.”

Cross-System Collaboration

Veterinarians often talk internally with their companies. Linhares says the ability to create cross-system peer groups offers the larger swine industry many benefits.

“Sometimes you see a problem in Clinic A and can learn from someone in Clinic B who has already dealt with it,” he points out. “It’s a nice benchmarking opportunity to learn from each other.”

That’s one of the benefits Erin Kettelkamp, a veterinarian with Swine Vet Center in Saint Peter, Minn., appreciates most about her DVM Swine Academy peer group.

“It’s a great way to create new circles – and it’s not always with people fresh out of school – it’s a range,” Kettelkamp says. “It’s nice to stratify those ages a little to create good mingling among the groups. I believe being able to collaborate and bring that back to wherever you work has a ton of value.”

She also values the customization of modules.

“Dr. Morgan has been great at listing out popular topics for us to choose from. We start with one of the most popular modules. From there, we have time to get the wheels turning and have great discussions over future topics at dinners, etc. The curriculum continues to get stronger and always stays relevant because it’s not planned in advance,” Kettelkamp says. “Things can change depending on speaker availability and the program has the ability to pull in experts, which contributes to the quality of the content we experience.”

A Dose of Fresh Perspective

Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of DVM Swine Academy is the emotional support it can provide to people in one of the most demanding careers from a mental health standpoint.

“As veterinarians, we care,” Morgan says. “We want to do the right thing. We are pulled in multiple directions and put a lot of time and focus into a lot of different things.”

In the end, that results in great pressure on an individual. Morgan says if you don’t have a group or someone you can call that is going through similar things, it makes it hard and keeps you on an island.

“I think having that group to call, to know you’ve already made a connection with someone who may be dealing with a similar issue and will listen is so helpful,” Morgan says.

Kettelkamp enjoyed the opportunity to simply get away from work for a day or two to gain a new perspective, she says.

“When we sit together and share, that eases some of the mental load for the young vet realizing they have more people to compare notes with and relate to at the time,” Kettelkamp says. “There is some venting that goes along with this life stage and pace, so it’s nice to have someone else to relate to outside of your immediate colleagues at work.”

It’s a privilege to be a part of DVM Swine Academy, she adds.

“I appreciate the opportunity to have this continuing education experience which is very valuable in order to generate some key takeaways we can then work on in the field,” Kettelkamp says.

Hear from more Kettelkamp and other alumni of the program here .

Read More:

It’s Time to Talk About Depopulation in the U.S. Swine Industry

Sad Doesn’t Mean Wrong: The Impact of Animal Depopulation

Hay, Feed, Fencing Supplies Needed to Support Panhandle Wildfire Victims

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 16:08:50 GMT

Donations of hay, feed, fencing supplies, cow feed and milk replacer are needed to support livestock owners impacted by the devastating wildfires that have scorched ranchland across a large portion of the Texas Panhandle.

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is establishing Animal Supply Points in several locations in the region to accept the donations. The purpose of the Animal Supply Point is to meet area producers’ most critical needs such as providing feed for cattle while they assess their individual operation’s other needs.

The ongoing wildfires, fueled by dry, windy conditions, have exceeded 1 million acres, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service . The Forest Service will continue to update the size and containment of these and other fires in the Texas Panhandle.

“These donations will go directly to those who need them as soon as possible,” said Monty Dozier, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension Disaster Assessment Recovery, DAR , program director, Bryan-College Station. “Texans are known for their generosity and deep values of Texas agriculture during times of need. This is certainly a situation where our neighbors and friends are needing assistance after these fires have threatened their livelihoods.”

Supply points for livestock and money donation information

Several Animal Supply Points are being set up through AgriLife Extension’s DAR program. Those with hay, feed or fencing materials to donate, or with equipment to help haul hay, should contact the following supply points and coordinators:

Gray County Animal Supply Point: Clyde Carruth Pavilion, 301 Bull Barn Drive, Pampa. Contact Marcus Preuninger at 806-669-8033 or 325-728-0477.
Hemphill County Animal Supply Point at Canadian AH&N Ranch Supply, 100 Hackberry St., Canadian. Contact Andy Holloway at 806-323-9114.
Donations of hay can also be made through the Texas Department of Agriculture Hay Hotline . And, a relief fund has been established through the STAR Fund Disaster Assistance through the Texas Department of Agriculture .
Direct monetary donations in Gray County should be sent to: City of Pampa – Attn: Finance, Box 2499, Pampa, Texas 79066-2499, reference 02/27/2024 Fire, or made by phone or in person at FirstBank Southwest-Pampa at 806-669-8007. Reference City of Pampa donation for Smokehouse Creek Fire.
To make donations for people who lost their homes in Hemphill County, go to First Baptist Canadian at http://fbccanadian.org/firehelp/ .

Continuing outreach and education

AgriLife Extension will provide more educational information as it becomes available on the losses and needs of those affected by the wildfires.

More preparedness and recovery information may be found on the Disaster Assessment and Recovery website . Safety tips and wildfire resources are also available on the Texas Ready website and the Texas A&M Forest Service website .

Understand Yourself Better and Be Better on the Job

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 21:00:38 GMT

Are you interested in being more effective in your business and personal interactions? Are you tired of butting heads with that annoying person on your team day after day? Are you looking for ways to be more efficient as a leader on the farm, in your business or at home?

In a practice tips seminar at the American Association of Swine Veterinarians annual meeting, JD Fiechtner, key account veterinarian for Boehringer Ingelheim, shared tips to help people “Be Better Than Before.”

In the swine industry, continual improvement in production systems isn’t just a good idea, it’s the standard. But Fiechtner points out that it’s all too easy to be so focused on the pigs that we forget to make time for the continuous improvement process in our own lives.

“The key behind all of this is communication. About 90% of corporate errors could be fixed by effective communication, and 75% of communication is received incorrectly in a business setting,” Fiechtner says.

That’s why he decided to present his practice tips session from a different angle – emphasizing communication.

“They say it’s important to know your audience. But I believe knowing yourself is just as important or maybe perhaps more so,” he says.

After trying personality profiling tests such as the DISC Assessment and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, he heard about the Enneagram. Of course, he said he couldn’t resist trying it out. And it was overwhelmingly helpful.

“I recommend the Enneagram Institute Site where you can take the Rheti 2.5 test, which consists of 144 paired questions. It takes 30 or 40 minutes. It costs $12 online for the Institute to send you your measurements or results from the test for you to discern your basic personality type,” Fiechtner explains.

Not only did he discover more about his dominant personality, but the Enneagram also expands on the basic reflexes of the nine dominant personalities and the positive and negative interactions between the different personality types.

Reflex Actions

Fiechtner says it was helpful to understand his reflex actions and why he reacts the way he does.

“It allows me to take a deep breath now, understand that reflex, and then make a conscious choice of how to respond accordingly. My tendency is to do X, and it may not always be healthy,” he explains.

But he points out the most helpful part is being able to use his knowledge to better interact with others. For example, if he knows ahead of time what someone’s hot buttons may be, he’ll work harder to avoid tripping those negative responses.

“The Enneagram allows me to understand why people respond or react to things. If I’m able, I will prepare ahead of time to hit the primary spots that mean more to them than the negative response applications,” Fiechtner adds. “None of us are perfect. It’s a maturing response process where you can choose to respond in what is the best interest of both of you, rather than just responding according to your reflex emotion.”

Understanding your innate responses can help you become more positive. For example, Fiechtner says he’s a logical, black-and-white, straightforward kind of person. Yet he interacts with people who are on the emotional side and are more aware of their feelings.

“At times, it has been difficult for me to understand that some people do not want to receive my logic just because it’s right,” he says. “I learned I needed to consider how my words may affect their feelings, too.”

If you understand how the other person receives things, you can change how you present them.

“The only place you have control is yourself. So, start there,” Fiechtner says. “I think with a basic understanding of others’ personalities, we can be more accepting. It helps us avoid those pitfalls of negative interactions so we can focus on positive communication and progress, rather than little nuances that may bother us.”

Read More on Farm Journal’s PORK:

What’s Top of Mind for Swine Veterinarians in 2023?

Girl on Fire: Paizlee Hardin’s Return to the Show Ring

Why We Need More Youth to Speak Up About Ag

This is What Showing Livestock is All About

How a Livestock Barn Helped One Iowa School Flourish

When Talent and Passion Collide

Living a PFAS Nightmare

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 20:49:34 GMT

Imagine receiving a phone call from the government telling you to euthanize your entire herd. That’s the nightmare Art Schapp, owner of Highland Dairy in Clovis, New Mexico, wished had never come true. And it’s one he continues to live each day, with his farm now officially being deemed a hazardous waste site.

The Battle with PFAS

It all started back in August 2018 when Schaap received word that seven of the 13 wells located on his dairy had been contaminated by toxins called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS.) These toxic chemicals entered the groundwater after aqueous film-forming foam, a substance used to smother flames in fire training exercises, were used at the nearby Cannon Air Force Base.

A July 2017 inspection by Air Force scientists found contamination near the Schaap dairy – an inspection that came eight years after the Air Force identified the need for such an inspection. The Air Force reported its findings to the New Mexico Environment Department, but not to the people living nearby. When the Air Force finally tested Schaap’s water on Aug. 28, 2018, it was found to be so polluted the military immediately began delivering bottled water to the family’s home.

Schaap’s attention quickly turned to the cows.

“Milk is 97% water. We knew that since the PFAS was contaminating our water, it would likely be contaminating our cows and our milk, too” Schapp told the audience at the 20th Anniversary of the Milk Business Conference.

Testing showed the cows, along with the milk they produced, contained PFAS at levels the U.S. Food and Drug Administration deemed unsafe for human consumption, and Schaap was forced to dump approximately 15,000 gal. of milk each day.

Unfortunately, culling the herd was not an option. With the meat from the animals being tainted, no processor was willing to help Schapp dispose of his herd.

“We didn’t know what to do,” Schapp said.

After working countless hours with lawyers and filling out hundreds of forms, Schapp learned that he could apply for the Dairy Indemnity Program – a program created to provide payments to dairy producers when a public regulatory agency directs them to remove their raw milk from the commercial market because it has been contaminated by pesticides and other residues. However, these payments had a time limit of 18 months.

“When we applied for the Indemnity Program, they only had like a half million dollars in there. And we were losing a half million dollars of gross income a month,” Schapp said. “We went to [the government] and asked them to extend the program, and they said it would take six months to get everything figured out. That wasn’t the case.”

This nightmare continued for nearly four years until Schapp finally received word giving him the go-ahead to euthanize his herd. Highland Dairy worked with state agencies to outline a plan for the disposal of thousands of dead cows as part of the USDA funding process.

“Until that point, we just had to watch some of the cows die,” Schapp said. “We just wanted this mess to finally come to an end, and 42 months later in April 2022, it did.”

With assistance and direction from the State Veterinarian and the New Mexico Livestock Board, Highland Dairy humanely euthanized 3,665 cows – Schaap’s entire herd.

“It was an emotional rollercoaster,” Schapp said. “Nobody should ever have to go through that, but it felt like we were finally nearing the end.”

No Giving Up

Today, the parlor at Highland Dairy sits empty. And unfortunately, the steady hum of those pulsators will never be heard again.

According to Schapp, in 2022 the EPA’s limit for PFAS in agricultural water was 70 parts per trillion - Schapp’s operation tested at 37,000 parts per trillion. In March 2023, the EPA will drop that standard to 0.02 parts per trillion, making Highland Dairy 1,000,008 times over the limit.

“Because of this new standard, our farm will now be considered a hazardous waste site, and I have no idea what will eventually become of our property,” Schapp said. “Farmers need to be aware of these regulations and what’s happening on and around their farms so they aren’t blindsided by this disaster like I was.”

While Schapp’s fond memories of his dairy are now tainted with destruction and heartache, he never regretted his decision to stand up and fight for his farm.

“Giving up was never an option for us,” Schapp said. “This wasn’t the outcome we were hoping for, but we never, ever gave up. This whole process made me painfully aware of how alone farmers really are when something like this happens. And I hope it doesn’t happen to anyone else. But if it does – know that you have to be strong and you have to fight hard.”

For more on Schapp’s story, read:

Air Force Pollution Forces New Mexico Dairy to Euthanize 3,665 Cows

Tips to Boost Mental Health Ahead of the Holidays

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 20:56:54 GMT

The statistics surrounding mental health are alarming. A study by the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) in 2021 found that 3 out of 4 people shared that their mental health worsened during the holiday season. The reasons varied, but financial pressures, conflict with family members, loss of loved ones and busy schedules were common reasons that aided in a declined mental health state of being.

Jess Peters with Spruce Row Farm in Meadville, Pa., says that there is so much pressure with the added expectations to be jolly and end the year on a high note.

“Most of us will spend a ton of time over the next few weeks surrounded by family and that’s great, but when you need to be alone. Be alone. Last year, I was feeling crazy overwhelmed and showed up to our family’s annual Christmas Eve dinner (the only formal Christmas tradition we have) an hour and a half after the rest of my family,” she says. “It felt amazing.”

The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences offers these options if you notice your mental health worsening during the holidays.

Practice self-care. What activities help you feel refreshed or relaxed? Taking a walk around your property, watching a favorite movie, or driving through a Christmas light display in your community are all simple activities that can bring happiness.
Avoid negative coping strategies. It is common for people to enjoy alcoholic beverages, but excessive drinking to change your mood can harm your physical and mental health.
Set healthy boundaries. It is okay to say “no” or “not right now.” If your schedule is too busy, consider limiting the number of invitations you accept. If family gatherings are a little contentious, plan to stay for only an hour or two.
Follow your routine. Enjoy holiday treats and remember your veggies and protein. Settle in for a fun movie night and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Proper rest and nutrition help your mental health tremendously!
Acknowledge your feelings. Talk to a trusted friend or family member and tell them how you feel. Sometimes, just saying words out loud can help remove a burden from our minds. Your loved ones may also be able to provide additional support.

Peters says this year she is taking the pressure off.

“Yes, 2022 is ending and 2023 is beginning. But that doesn’t mean I’m going to magically become a new person. You can do that any day of the year. New year, same you,” she says. “That’s ok.”

Help is Available:

988 – call or text this number 24/7 to be connected to the Suicide and Crisis Prevention Lifeline. A trained counselor will listen to you, support you, and share resources in your area.
741741 – text the Crisis Lifeline 24/7 to connect with a trained counselor.
911 – if you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal thoughts or a medical emergency, call emergency services immediately.

The holidays can be a time of excitement and happiness and can also be challenging. Peters’ shares that for a lot of people, this time of year means grief.

“We tend to reflect around the holidays and miss the people we’ve lost who we love most. If that’s you, I’m so sorry because grief is a beast for which there is little to no advice,” she says. “Take solace in the fact that you loved so deeply, and they loved you in return. And if that’s true, they wouldn’t want you to stop living your life because of them. Live for them. Whatever anyone tells you, some kinds of grief are forever. It’s our job to learn how to live through it.”

What It Means to #FarmOn

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 02:11:53 GMT

The following commentary on Farm Journal’s #FarmOn campaign is from Montana farmer Michelle Jones. Here Jones read her comments and see some of the #FarmOn photos submitted from across the country in the video below. Show us how you #FarmOn by using the hashtag or text photos or video to 31313.

By Michelle Jones

What does it mean to #FarmOn? Farm Journal started a campaign to highlight the continued march of our agriculture industry through the COVID-19 pandemic. While we are certainly not immune to the economic impacts of the crisis, our farms continue to produce, prep for the coming season, and roll on. It is honestly a weird feeling. I have watched as my friends and family’s lives have been turned upside down and yet, here I am, continuing my day as normal. So what does it mean to #FarmOn?

Life as we know it?

The past few weeks have had a surreal feeling to them. Grocery stores appear to be emptying (we do not have a food shortage – read here ), cars have sat parked in drive ways, and planes have been parked as the world retreated to the relative safety of their homes. Friends who have never worked from home are suddenly working from home, homeschooling their children, clearing their schedules of anything and everything, and navigating being home ALL THE TIME. It’s not easy if you have never done it. It’s not easy even if you have. The uncertainty of the situation adds anxiety, stress, and a whole host of emotions to be honest.

But for us, out on the farm, it feels like business as usual. Every day – I wake up and go about my day like nothing has changed. Because nothing has. We still #FarmOn. Spring work needs done, cows need fed, calves need checked, fences need fixed, paperwork needs done. If I am being honest, it makes me feel guilty. Guilty that I can leave the house. Guilty that I can go to work, guilty that I get to spend my day in a world that feels like an alternative reality to so many. Monday and Tuesday I largely worked where I did not have cell service, just going about my day, doing work, listening to podcasts – and nothing was any different than if would have been two months ago or a year ago. It is a privilege to #FarmOn.

Essential Service

Agriculture is an essential service. We are exempted from any of the stay at home orders – and that includes our wide and sprawling supply chain. We are essential for obvious reasons, we produce food. Food is essential. Not every farm gets to carry on like everything is normal like we do obviously, many have large numbers of employees and need to change how they conduct business. Produce, large animal operations, and others have had to implement new measures to keep their employees safe. Meanwhile out on the open expanses of the Northern Plains, I have not seen anyone besides my immediate family in a week. We spend our days naturally socially distanced.

We #FarmOn because we have to. Agriculture marches to a constant drumbeat, we are constantly moving. Animals grow, crops need planted, deadlines have to be met. We cannot stop for a global pandemic, or if we do, we risk missing an entire crop year. If we miss an entire crop year – we miss an entire year of income. Animals are either constantly growing or producing milk, we cannot stop that process. They have to be milked, they have to be fed, they have to be moved through the supply chain when they reach a certain age or weight. Even when it feels like the rest of the world has stopped turning, we keep going. We #FarmOn.

Colliding Worlds

So where do COVID-19 and agriculture collide? In all honesty, a lot of places. In the processing part of the supply chain they are struggling to keep some plants open as their employees have contracted COVID-19 . The US and Canada have both been impacted by these closures. The ethanol industry has been devastated by a perfect storm of a Saudi/Russian supply war and demand destruction from stay at home orders. Ethanol plants across the Midwest and Central Plains have been temporarily closing or reducing hours. Processors for multiple commodities are invoking “force majeure” clauses, which means they are canceling contracts because of an unforeseen disaster. This leaves producers without a place to go with their products, products they thought had been successfully marketed.

While we #FarmOn though, it feels like we are facing an entirely different world. One that will look very different when we emerge on the other side. Demand destruction has devastated the dairy, beef, and produce industry. Dairy has lost so much demand that they are dumping milk because there is too much being produced, not nearly enough processors, and not nearly enough demand. Beef has seen an incredible drop in demand. Prices have plummeted for many of the major commodities. Global supply chains and demand have been disrupted by countries across the globe ordering their citizens inside. We have no idea what the world will look like when we emerge from this. Will the U.S. still buy 50% of their food outside the home? Will our supply chain be forever changed because of the bottlenecks this pandemic highlighted? So many many more questions and so few answers. But yet, we #FarmOn.

The Privilege of #FarmOn

Our ability to #FarmOn, to spend our days lost in our own worlds, is a privilege. A privilege I will never take for granted. We are essential, we are raising food for customers around the world, but we are not healthcare workers. We are not the people that wake up every morning and are unsure if they will return home healthy. It is a privilege to sit on top of a hill, gazing across the rolling hills, seeing them turn a tinge of green signaling the start of another year. The privilege of knowing I am about as safe as it gets, and the privilege to keep my life intact. To #FarmOn. It is my sincere hope, that as we tell these stories, the stories of agriculture marching to the perpetual drumbeat of time, the stories of how we #FarmOn, that we never forget how privileged we are to do it. I look forward to the day that COVID-19 is a distant memory, I look forward to the day that I do not feel guilty going about my day, but I also hope I never take for granted the privilege of being healthy and being able to #FarmOn.

Related:

#FarmOn: Despite Pandemic, Agriculture Persists

Finding Peace: Managing Mental Health During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. For many, however, it is also a period marked by increased stress and mental health challenges. The reality is that the rites and rituals of the season sometimes come with pressures that can be difficult to manage.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five adults’ experiences mental health struggles. This statistic is a stark reminder that these challenges are pervasive, impacting individuals of all backgrounds and life circumstances. What’s more revealing is that three out of four people report a worsening of their mental health during the holiday season.

Common Stressors and Their Impact
There are several factors that contribute to this heightened stress. Financial pressures are a significant concern, as individuals grapple with the expectation of gift-giving, hosting, and traveling. Coupled with these financial worries is the potential conflict with family members, which can strain relationships rather than bring people closer.

The loss of loved ones also becomes more pronounced during the holidays, as memories of past celebrations may bring feelings of longing rather than comfort. Moreover, the busy schedules that come with holiday preparations can leave little room for self-care or relaxation, further exacerbating feelings of stress and anxiety.

Strategies for Managing Holiday Stress
The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences offers these options if you notice your mental health worsening during the holidays.

Practice self-care. What activities help you feel refreshed or relaxed? Taking a walk around your property, watching a favorite movie, or driving through a Christmas light display in your community are all simple activities that can bring happiness.

Avoid negative coping strategies. It is common for people to enjoy alcoholic beverages, but excessive drinking to change your mood can harm your physical and mental health.

Set healthy boundaries. It is okay to say “no” or “not right now.” If your schedule is too busy, consider limiting the number of invitations you accept. If family gatherings are a little contentious, plan to stay for only an hour or two.

Follow your routine. Enjoy holiday treats and remember your veggies and protein. Settle in for a fun movie night and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Proper rest and nutrition help your mental health tremendously!

Acknowledge your feelings. Talk to a trusted friend or family member and tell them how you feel. Sometimes, just saying words out loud can help remove a burden from our minds. Your loved ones may also be able to provide additional support.

Help is Available:

• 988 – call or text this number 24/7 to be connected to the Suicide and Crisis Prevention Lifeline. A trained counselor will listen to you, support you, and share resources in your area.

• 741741 – text the Crisis Lifeline 24/7 to connect with a trained counselor.

• 911 – if you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal thoughts or a medical emergency, call emergency services immediately.

Understanding the factors that contribute to the decline in mental health during the holidays is the first step toward managing them effectively. By recognizing and addressing the triggers, you can regain a sense of peace and joy during what is meant to be a festive time. Remember, taking care of your mental health should always be a priority, holiday season or not.

Your Next Read:
Amazing Dairy Farmer Becomes Lifesaving Hero: Why He Chose to Donate Both His Liver and Kidney