Ruminate This | Agrarian Solutions

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Ruminate This! In this installment of our “Meet the Team” series, join host Scott Zehr as he chats with Chad Christensen, Regional Business Development Manager at Agrarian Solutions. Discover Chad’s journey, his role in driving regional business development, and his passion for agriculture.

Tune in to learn about the values and culture at Agrarian, and get an insider’s perspective on how teamwork and integrity drive success. Don’t miss this conversation that highlights the people behind Agrarian Solutions and what makes our team thrive.

Want to learn more about Agrarian Solutions? Reach out to us at [email protected]. To stay updated on our latest episodes, get exclusive insights on livestock nutrition, and discover cutting-edge research, sign up here: https://agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In this episode of Ruminate This, host Scott Zehr interviews Dr. Larry Roth to address the growing problem of mycotoxin contamination in dairy cattle across the U.S. Dr. Roth shares alarming 2024 corn silage data from the Northeast, Great Lakes, and East Coast, highlighting the presence of multiple mycotoxins at concerning levels. He also discusses the increasing detection of DON (vomitoxin) and Zearalenone, typically “cool weather” toxins, in southern states, as well as the mycotoxin risks in the western and southwestern regions.

The episode provides insights into the “Big 5” mycotoxins—DON, Zearalenone, Aflatoxin, T2/HT2, and Fumonisin—which are known to negatively affect dairy cattle’s production, reproduction, and immune function. Tune in to discover strategies for improving dairy herd health, boosting milk production, and mitigating mycotoxin risks.

To get a copy of the latest mycotoxin report reach out to us at [email protected]. To stay up-to-date on our latest episodes, get exclusive insights on livestock nutrition, and discover cutting-edge research, sign up here: https://agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Get the Mycotoxin Report here.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In this special bonus episode of Ruminate This, we kick off our “Meet the Team” series, where you’ll get to know the people behind the scenes who help drive success at Agrarian Solutions. Hosted by Scott Zehr, this episode features an insightful conversation with Nick Bradley, Agrarian's Director of Operations.

Nick shares about his journey from marketing to agriculture, his role in ensuring smooth operations, and his passion for family and faith. Tune in as Scott and Nick dive into the company culture, teamwork, and how Agrarian prioritizes people-to-people relationships in the B2B world. This episode offers an inside look at the values and people that make Agrarian thrive. Tune in for some great stories and insights! 

Want to learn more about Agrarian Solutions or book a call to implement a WHY Workshop with Nic Bradley? Reach out to us at [email protected]. To stay updated on our latest episodes, get exclusive insights on livestock nutrition, and discover cutting-edge research, sign up here: https://agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In this episode of Ruminate This, we explore the top 12 diseases causing the greatest economic losses in the global dairy industry and the critical role nutrition and mycotoxins play. At an alarming cost of $12 billion annually, subclinical ketosis leads the list globally, while in the U.S., mastitis ranks number one, with yearly losses reaching $2 billion.

While better cattle management, facility improvements, and environmental control are essential, nutrition is still a major factor in preventing diseases. Even the best ration is ineffective if cows aren't consuming it properly. Mycotoxins further complicate the issue by triggering inflammation and weakening the immune system, leaving cows more vulnerable to disease. Tune in as host Scott Zehr, and Agrarian Solutions Vice President of Nutrition, Dr. Larry Roth, discuss how to better protect your herd from these costly health issues!

To learn more about this topic, reach out to us at [email protected]. To stay up-to-date on our latest episodes, get exclusive insights on livestock nutrition, and discover cutting-edge research, sign up here: https://agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

This week on Ruminate This, we talk with Dr. Kevin Ziemba, Global Support Specialist at STgenetics, about the essentials of proactive farm management and its role in building a sustainable farm team. Dr. Ziemba shares how moving beyond constant crisis management to building a team-oriented culture centered around compliance and problem-solving, is critical to farm success. Of utmost importance is clear communication, where everyone on the team, not just the owners and managers, understands the "why." Tune in to hear how effective farm management encompasses not just facilities, processes, and equipment, but fundamentally starts with the people. By fostering the right culture and ensuring the right people are in the right roles, farms can unlock their genetic and nutritional potential, leading to greater success and sustainability.

Kevin Ziemba is the Global Support Specialist, where he and his team provide genetic support and resources to dairy producers. Born and raised on a dairy, Kevin has spent his entire life in genetics. Kevin graduated from Cornell University where he earned a master’s degree in quantitative genetics. Kevin is a very active Cornell alumna, returning to Cornell to guest lecture the Dairy Genetics class each year and has coached the Cornell dairy judging team for the past 9 years.  In 2021 his team won the National Intercollegiate Dairy Judging Contest at Madison.

If you would like to discuss this topic further, contact us.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Today’s podcast digs into the dogma and new thinking about liver abscess development in feedlot and dairy cattle. The entire June 2024 Journal of Applied Animal Science was devoted to the liver abscess phenomena which is estimated to cost the US beef packing industry at least $400 million dollars each year. While liver abscesses in traditional beef and beef X dairy feedlot cattle have been linked to high-starch diets and ruminal acidosis, Rezac et al (2014) suggests similar liver abscess incidence in lactating dairy cows, which suggests re-evaluation of this problem and the potential link to intestinal integrity issues in young calves due to early-life health problems like scours. 

Tune in for this literature review with Agrarian Solutions Vice President of Nutrition Dr. Larry Roth, and learn how early intervention to defend and protect cattle from day one can reduce the prevalence of liver abscesses and improve herd health.

For more information on this topic or to learn more about the Agrarian programs that can protect and defend cattle contact us at [email protected].

Check the literature here.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In this episode we discuss the hidden costs of binders in dairy cow rations with Caroline Knoblock, Director of Nutrition. We explore how binders, while effective against Aflatoxin, can inadvertently bind essential nutrients like amino acids and vitamins—costing an additional 4-6 cents per cow per day. Discover why some experts believe this cost could be even higher. 

With a Bachelor’s in Animal Science from Michigan State and a Master’s in Dairy Science from the University of Alberta, Caroline brings a wealth of knowledge, particularly in transition dairy cow management and nutrition. Her experience spans roles in nutrition consulting, regional business management, and working with premix suppliers, all grounded in her practical upbringing in the dairy industry. 

Tune in as we explore when to use binders, their limitations, and a biological solution for mycotoxin mitigation that preserves nutrient integrity. 

Contact us.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Are binders truly effective in combating harmful toxins in feed, or could they be causing more harm than good? In this episode, we delve into the suprising research by Kihal et al. (2020, 2022), which examined the effectiveness of yeast cell wall and clay binders in binding mycotoxins. While binders were originally developed to target Aflotoxin—a toxin now rarely found in feed—they may not be the best solution for today's more prevalent toxins like DON, Zearalenone, T-2, and Fumonisin.

We also explore a biological, not chemical approach that offers broad-spectrum protection against mycotoxins without the drawbacks of traditional binders. Backed by solid research, this biological approach could redefine how we safeguard livestock from the hidden dangers in their feed. Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on how to better protect your herd.
Contact us.

Check the literature here.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking L-Form Technology and its vital role in supporting every animal on a farm from day one. We address the important issue of mycotoxins and their impact on pre-weaned calves, along with the critical periods of transition in an animal’s life. Livestock face their greatest challenges during these transitions, making it essential to fortify their systems to maintain health before and after these vulnerable times.

While many companies offer products tailored to specific life stages, we take a comprehensive view of the entire life cycle. By starting with the "WHY" question, we ensure that our programs and products deliver genuine, effective solutions.

Tune in to discover the Defend and Protect for a Lifetime approach to animal health. To learn more, reach out for a consultation on how to defend and protect your livestock for a lifetime. Contact us.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In this episode we discuss the nuances of immune support in dairy cows with Dr. Larry Roth, Vice President of Nutrition at Agrarian Solutions. We explore why many immune support products fall short, offering a little of everything but not enough to be truly effective. We discuss commonly touted ingredients for immune support like plant extracts, yeast cell wall products, vitamins, antioxidants, trace minerals, and beneficial bacteria, are often insufficient against mycotoxin challenges.

We hit on when and why immune support feed additives are best utilized and how integrating them alongside mycotoxin control enhances overall herd health, especially during the summer months.

If you would like to discuss this topic further, contact us. Contact us.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!