Episode Notes: From Escape to Excellence - The Ekstein and Loewith Families’ Journey

• Introduction to the extraordinary story of the Ekstein, Loewith, and Abeles families

• Historical context: Nazi annexation of Sudetenland in 1938

• Joe Loewith’s pivotal role in warning Karl Abeles of impending Nazi roundups

• The families’ daring escape from Czechoslovakia to Canada

• Challenges faced during immigration to Canada

• Settlement in Mount Hope, Ontario and the five-year farming commitment

• Support from the local Jewish community and Canadian Jewish Congress

Summitholm Farm (Loewith Family):

• Joe Loewith’s transition from window dresser to dairy farmer

• Growth of Summitholm Farm from 1951 onwards

• Achievements under Carl and David Loewith’s management

• Current statistics: 119 cows with lifetime production exceeding 100,000 kg

• Ben Loewith’s current management and breeding strategies

• Establishment of Summit Station Dairy and Creamery

Quality Holsteins (Ekstein Family):

• Paul Ekstein’s early interest in Holstein cattle

• Ari Ekstein taking over farm management

• Winning of fourth Master Breeder Shield in 2025

• Expansion into seed business with third generation involvement

Industry Context:

• 2024 Master Breeder Awards announcement

• Over 1,100 Master Breeder shields awarded since 1929

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience and adaptability of both families

• Impact on Canadian dairy farming industry

• Importance of embracing new technologies and strategies

• Legacy of excellence spanning multiple generations

https://www.thebullvine.com/breeder-profiles/from-escape-to-excellence-the-extraordinary-journey-of-the-ekstein-and-loewith-families/

Key Points Covered:

1. Current impact of HPAI H5N1 on the dairy industry
   • $1.2 billion in losses since March 2024
   • 973 herds affected
2. Virus transmission and survival
   • 76% of outbreaks start from migratory waterfowl
   • D1.1 variant survives 22 days in manure slurry pits
3. Effects on milk production and cow health
   • 10-30% drop in milk production for 7-10 days
   • 0.3% mortality rate in infected herds
4. Financial impact on farms
   • Small herds (<500 cows): $100-$200 daily losses
   • Large herds (>1,000 cows): $1,500-$3,000 daily losses
5. Government assistance programs
   • ELAP: Covers 60% of losses for 21 days
   • HERDS Act: 50% of HEPA filter costs up to $15,000
6. Biosecurity measures
   • HEPA filters: 85% effective against airborne viral particles
   • Closed herd policy: Reduces infection rates by 73%
   • Laser systems to deter birds
7. Upcoming vaccines
   • Zoetis mRNA vaccine: 89% efficacy, potential Q3 2025 release
   • USDA H5N1-CVX vaccine: 92% efficacy, potential Q1 2026 release
8. Milk safety
   • Pasteurization effectively eliminates viable virus
   • Raw milk: 9% of samples showed viral RNA
9. Worker safety
   • 7% of dairy workers in Michigan and Colorado have H5N1 antibodies
   • Only 40% of workers using proper PPE during high-risk tasks
10. Action steps for farmers
    • Enroll in USDA's Herd Status Program
    • Implement strict PPE policies
    • Apply for government assistance programs

https://www.thebullvine.com/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza/hpai-h5n1-the-2025-science-based-dairy-farm-survival-guide-because-hope-isnt-a-biosecurity-plan/

Key Highlights:

• 🚜 Generational Legacy: How the Barkey-Puterbough family built a dairy dynasty spanning 187 years, surviving land expropriation (1972) to breed Canada’s first 10-generation EX cows.

• 🐮 Foundation Genetics: The story of Harriett EX-9* (purchased as “Roybrook Starlite’s bargain semen”), whose descendants make up 95% of today’s herd and birthed two historic 10-generation EX cows.

• 🌟 Show Ring Dominance: From Cooper Puterbough’s 4-H calf (Unix Herminie EX-95) to back-to-back Ontario Summer Holstein Show Grand Championships in 2024.

• 🇬🇧 Global Impact: Three Royal Highland Show Grand Champions (Scotland), and Altona Lea Broker Emma EX-96-UK, immortalized in British stained glass.

• 🌱 Nurturing the Next Gen: 37 consecutive years providing TD Canadian 4-H Dairy Classic calves, mentoring 300+ youth annually.

Notable Statistics:

• Herd size: 60 milking cows | 1,350 acres (combined owned/rented)

• Production: 11,158 kg milk/cow/year | BCA scores of 260-303-265

• Awards: 4 Master Breeder shields | 12 EX/8 ME cows | 37-year 4-H streak

Featured Cattle:

• Altona Lea Classic Jazz EX-91-2E (1st Canadian 10G EX cow)

• Altona Lea Cinderdoor Glitz EX-91 (2nd 10G EX cow)

• Altona Lea Unix Herminie EX-95 (back-to-back Grand Champion)

Key Quotes:

• “We’ve provided calves to the 4-H Classic for 37 years. The teamwork those kids learn? It changes lives.” – Glenn Barkey

• “Harriett wasn’t just a cow – she’s the backbone of a genetic revolution.” – Host Bella

https://www.thebullvine.com/breeder-profiles/legacy-of-excellence-the-heart-and-soul-of-altona-lea-holsteins/

In this eye-opening episode, hosts Bella and Douglas dive into the world of CRISPR gene editing and its potential impact on the dairy industry. Key points covered include:

1. Introduction to CRISPR gene-edited polo horses by Kheiron Biotech in Argentina

• 15% faster sprint speeds

• No artificial DNA added

2. Potential applications of CRISPR in dairy farming:

• Heat-resistant cows (SLICK gene)

• Up to 10% higher milk production during heat waves

• Disease resistance (CD46 gene)

• 20-30% potential reduction in antibiotic use

3. Regulatory landscape:

• Argentina’s open approach vs. EU’s caution

• US AGRI-TECH Act of 2023 and farmer confusion

4. Economic considerations:

• CRISPR-edited embryo costs: $5,000-$10,000

• Licensing fees: 5-10% of offspring revenue

5. Challenges for small farms:

• High costs

• Knowledge gap (only 15% of US dairy farmers understand gene editing)

6. Innovative solutions:

• Brazil’s “Open CRISPR” program

• Australia’s dual approach: heat-resistant cattle and methane-reducing feed

• DairyTrace blockchain system for CRISPR milk tracking

7. Consumer perceptions:

• 52% of Americans cautiously optimistic

• 33% of Europeans want more information

8. Competition from alternative dairy:

• Lab-grown milk proteins

• $2.1 billion market value

9. Key takeaways for farmers:

• Stay informed

• Be adaptable

• Collaborate with other farmers

Join us for this fascinating discussion on the future of dairy farming in the age of CRISPR technology!

https://www.thebullvine.com/technology/gene-edited-polo-horses-a-genetic-revolution-with-dairy-implications/

The Bullvine Podcast: Episode 177

Title: The Show Ring Showdown: Why Taller Holsteins Are Costing You Thousands

Release Date: August 2024

Duration: 45–60 minutes

---

### Episode Description

The dairy world is at a crossroads: do towering Holsteins truly win in the show ring and the parlor? In this bombshell episode, hosts Bella and Douglas expose the hidden costs of breeding for height, reveal CDN/USDA data threatening tall-cow dominance, and spotlight four sires revolutionizing balanced genetics.

Key Takeaways:

- 📉 $1.20/day feed bleed: Why every vertical inch drains profits (Cornell data)

- 💀 1.7 fewer lactations: The shocking longevity gap (CDN 2023)

- 🏆 Judges’ secret shift: Why 58% of 2024 champions have STA ≤1.85

- 🐂 Bull MVPs: DG Bechamel’s $820 NM$ and Carters-Corner Charmer’s fertility secrets

- 🔥 Action checklist: 3 non-negotiable rules for profit-driven breeding

---

### Featured Data & Sources

1. Tall Cow Economics

- $287 avg. dystocia vet bill (Ontario AgriCorp 2024)

- +1.5 STA = -0.45 Daughter Pregnancy Rate (CDN)

2. Udder Supremacy

- 67% of Expo champs prioritized udder depth (2024 WDE)

- 14% mastitis risk drop/+1 Udder Composite (Cornell 2023)

3. Winning Bulls

- Genosource Eagle Eye: $48K lifetime profit per 100 cows (USDA)

- Maplecrest Farms: 14% milk yield jump via STA reduction

---

### Chapters (Timestamps for Platforms)

1. 00:00–05:00 – Intro: The Billion-Dollar Height Hoax

2. 05:01–18:00 – Feed Costs & Early Culls: Tall Cows’ Dirty Secrets

3. 18:01–30:00 – Genetic Gladiators: DG Bechamel & Stealth Bulls

4. 30:01–40:00 – Judges’ New Rules: Udder Depth > Vertical Inches

5. 40:01–End – Your 3-Step Breeding Overhaul

https://www.thebullvine.com/the-bullvine/the-show-ring-showdown-why-bigger-isnt-always-better/

In this episode, hosts Bella and Douglas dive deep into cutting-edge strategies that are transforming the dairy industry. They explore how savvy farmers are slashing costs, boosting production, and increasing profitability with the help of their nutritionists.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Custom Feed Solutions

• Regional alternatives like citrus pulp and potato waste

• Potential savings of up to $68/ton on feed costs

2. Technology Investments

• NIRS forage analyzers and rumen sensors

• Real-world example: $33,000 annual savings from $20,000 tech investment

3. Sustainability Measures

• 3-NOP supplements for methane reduction

• Balancing environmental benefits with milk production

• Carbon credits as a new revenue stream

4. Collaborative Approaches

• Co-op nutritionists for smaller farms

• Forming collectives to access carbon credit markets

5. Policy Perks and Grants

• Farm Bill grants covering up to 50% of precision tech costs

• Importance of staying informed about industry policies

6. Practical Implementation Strategies

• Step-by-step guide for integrating new technologies

• Balancing traditional farming wisdom with modern innovations

Expert Insights:

• Dr. Emma Ruiz on integrating tech with farmer intuition

• Real-life success stories from farmers like Mike Larson and Linda Stoltzfus

Call to Action:

1. Contact your nutritionist to discuss implementing new strategies

2. Explore opportunities for collaboration with neighboring farms

3. Investigate policy perks and grants available to dairy farmers

This episode provides a comprehensive look at how dairy farmers can innovate to improve profitability and sustainability, emphasizing the crucial role of nutritionists as strategic partners in this evolving industry.

https://www.thebullvine.com/management/how-dairy-farmers-are-slashing-costs-and-supercharging-herd-health-with-help-from-their-nutritionists/

Key Topics Covered:

• Importance of the transition period for dairy cows

• Carbohydrate balance in postpartum nutrition

• Protein and amino acid considerations

• Mineral management for cow health

• Feed efficiency strategies

• Emerging technologies in dairy nutrition

• Environmental aspects of dairy farming

Highlights:

• 75% of health issues in cows occur within the first month after calving

• Optimal NDF range: 28-32%, Starch range: 22-25%

• Lysine and methionine are crucial amino acids for milk protein production

• Effective mineral management can reduce milk fever rates significantly

• AI technologies are revolutionizing personalized cow nutrition

• Reducing protein content in cow rations can cut nitrogen emissions and save money

Fun Facts:

• A 100-cow herd can gain an extra 50 pounds of milk protein daily with optimized amino acid profiles

• A Wisconsin farm reduced milk fever rates from 15% to 3% with a negative DCAD program

• A 1,000-cow farm saw a 7% boost in feed efficiency with precision feeding technology

Practical Tips:

• For small farms (50-200 cows): Focus on individual cow care and join purchasing groups

• For large operations (500+ cows): Invest in automated monitoring technologies and on-farm nutritionists

• Explore AI-powered apps for herd health and nutrition monitoring

Bottom Line:

A typical 500-cow dairy operation could gain around $200,000 annually by implementing these strategies – that’s about $400 per cow per year in additional profits!

https://www.thebullvine.com/management/optimizing-postpartum-cow-health-essential-nutrition-and-management-tips-for-dairy-farmers/

Episode Notes: The Legacy of Mount Victoria Farms

• Introduction to Mount Victoria Farms, founded by Thomas Bassett Macaulay in Quebec, Canada in 1899

• Macaulay’s background as an insurance executive and actuary

• Macaulay’s late start in Holstein breeding at age 69 in 1924

• The acquisition of key foundation animals, including Johanna Rag Apple Pabst for $15,000 in 1926

• Macaulay’s scientific approach to breeding, focusing on high butterfat production and good conformation

• The development of influential cow families like the Colanthas, Bonheurs, and Hartogs

• The impact of Johanna Rag Apple Pabst and his descendants on the Holstein breed globally

• Key sires discussed: Montvic Pathfinder, Montvic Rag Apple Colantha Abbekerk, Montvic Rag Apple Ajax

• The global influence of Mount Victoria genetics, with an estimated 90% of Canadian Holsteins tracing back to the herd by the 1950s

• The dispersal of the Mount Victoria herd in 1942 and the continued impact of its genetics

• Lessons for modern breeders from Macaulay’s methods, including the importance of clear goals, data-driven selection, and challenging conventional wisdom

• The enduring legacy of Mount Victoria Farms in shaping the modern Holstein breed

https://www.thebullvine.com/breeder-profiles/the-vision-of-mount-victoria-t-b-macaulays-holstein-legacy/

In this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas discuss the remarkable career of Bob Hagenow, Key points covered include:

1. Bob’s background: Growing up on a registered Holstein dairy farm in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, and his education at UW-Madison.

2. Career at Vita Plus: Bob’s 38-year journey from nutritionist to regional business manager, impacting over 400 employee-owners.

3. Industry contributions: Bob’s work in nutrition innovation, team development, and industry leadership.

4. World Dairy Expo involvement: 40 years as a ring steward and his contributions to the event’s board and committees.

5. Youth development: Bob’s extensive involvement in 4-H, FFA, and mentorship of young professionals.

6. Community service: 11 years on the Rio Community Schools board and various volunteer activities.

7. Awards and recognitions: Induction into the Wisconsin 4-H Hall of Fame and receiving the Honorary Recognition Award from UW-Madison’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.

8. Personal philosophy: Bob’s commitment to helping others succeed and his approach to building relationships in the industry.

9. Future outlook: Bob’s optimism about the dairy industry’s potential to feed the world.

The episode highlights Bob Hagenow’s significant impact on the dairy industry through his technical expertise, genuine care for others, and commitment to developing future leaders.

https://www.thebullvine.com/dairy-industry-professionals/bob-hagenow-a-legacy-built-on-a-handshake/

1. Tragic Tire Explosion at W Hesketh and Sons Dairy Farm

• Young father Joshua Hardman (23) killed in tire explosion incident

• Farm fined £80,000 for safety violations

• Key safety tips for tire inflation on farms

2. Steel Tariffs Impact on Dairy Equipment Costs

• 25% steel tariffs driving up to 15% increase in dairy equipment costs

• Potential cost increases by farm size:

• Small farms (50-200 cows): $150,000 - $300,000

• Medium farms (201-1000 cows): $300,000 - $750,000

• Large farms (1000+ cows): $750,000+

• USDA’s $500 million emergency equipment purchase program mentioned

3. Trump’s Criticism of Canada’s Dairy Policy

• Overview of Canada’s dairy supply management system

• Ongoing debate leading up to 2026 CUSMA review

• Potential impact on U.S.-Canada trade relations

4. Proposed $230 Billion Agriculture Budget Cuts

• Potential cuts to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

• Impact on dairy demand: $1 change in SNAP benefits = $0.66 shift in grocery sales

• Concerns about SNAP Healthy Fluid Milk Incentive program

5. CRV’s 2023-24 Financial Report

• Net turnover: €185.4 million

• Operating loss: €4.2 million

• Net loss after tax: €4.1 million

• New breeding value for methane introduced

• Increased supply of homozygous hornless bulls

• Continued development of FeedExcel breeding strategy