Step back in time to uncover the legendary story of Frederick Roy Ormiston, renowned as "The Holstein Man's Holstein Man." Discover how a shrewd $750 investment in a single, remarkable white cow in 1956 became the cornerstone of the world-famous Roybrook Holstein herd. We delve into Ormiston's visionary breeding philosophy, his masterful use of linebreeding, and how the influence of "The White Cow" and her descendants – including the iconic sires Telstar, Starlite, and Tempo – spread across the globe, revolutionizing Holstein genetics. Learn why Ormiston's focus on balanced traits, longevity, and cow families remains incredibly relevant for breeders navigating today's genomic era.

In This Episode, You'll Hear About:

• The Moment: Setting the scene at the 1956 Royal Winter Fair and the triumph of "The White Cow."
• The Man: Roy Ormiston's background, his formative years as a Holstein Association fieldman, and the founding of Roybrook Farm.
• The Gamble: The fascinating story behind the acquisition of Balsam Brae Pluto Sovereign ("The White Cow") for just $750 (plus a potential $50 bonus!).
• The Matriarch: The White Cow's incredible show career, production, and her unparalleled ability to transmit excellence.
• The Strategy: How Ormiston recognized the White Cow's genetic power and built his dynasty through careful, strategic linebreeding (and why he insisted it wasn't inbreeding).
• The Icons: The creation and global impact of the legendary Roybrook sires – Telstar (and his statue in Japan!), Starlite, and Tempo.
• The Philosophy: Unpacking the "Ormiston Method" – his focus on foundation, cow families, balanced selection (type, production, components, longevity), and his healthy skepticism of relying solely on statistics.
• The Legacy: Roybrook Farm becoming a global destination, the record-breaking 1990 "Retirement Party" dispersal sale, and Ormiston's lasting influence on the Holstein breed.
• Modern Relevance: Why Roy Ormiston's principles of breeding trouble-free, efficient, long-lasting cows are more important than ever in the age of genomics.

Tune in to hear the captivating story of how one man's vision and one extraordinary cow reshaped the Holstein world!

See full article at https://www.thebullvine.com/breeder-profiles/roy-ormiston-the-holstein-mans-holstein-man-who-revolutionized-modern-breeding/

In this eye-opening episode of The Bullvine podcast, we explore how forward-thinking dairy farmers are transforming methane reduction from a regulatory burden into a significant profit opportunity-boosting their bottom line by up to $1,200 per head while addressing climate concerns.

Episode Highlights:

Introduction

• Welcome and overview of the $1,200/head profit opportunity
• Why methane reduction represents both a challenge and opportunity for dairy farmers

The Dairy Industry at a Crossroads

• Canadian dairy farmers have already reduced carbon footprint by 22% since 2011
• Industry-wide goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050
• Real farmer testimonial: Martin Brodeur's experience with covered manure storage

The Methane Math

• Breaking down dairy's actual contribution to greenhouse gas emissions
• Understanding farm-specific emission sources: enteric methane (40-60%), manure (20-35%)
• Dalhousie University research findings on typical farm methane production

Turning Methane into Money

• The Methane Mitigation Roadmap: immediate, mid-term, and long-term strategies
• University of Guelph data on profitability of low-emission herds
• ROI considerations for different approaches

Feed Additives: The Low-Hanging Fruit

• Deep dive on 3-nitrooxypropanol (Bovaer) and its 20-40% methane reduction potential
• Sarah Jennings' real-world experience implementing Bovaer in her TMR system
• Economic analysis of feed additive implementation

Grazing and Genetics

• "Grazing for Green": Research on 20-28% lower methane from pasture-fed cows
• University of Guelph's award-winning genetic selection approach
• How Semex is developing genetic rankings for lower methane production

The Methane Money Calculator

• Investment and returns breakdown by herd size
• Technology comparison: feed additives vs. covered storage vs. anaerobic digesters
• Payback period analysis for different farm operations

Dairy's Secret Weapons in the Climate Fight

• Upcycling champions: How dairy cows transform waste into nutritional treasure
• Nutrient density: Getting more nutritional bang for your environmental buck
• Jean-Pierre Lavoie's experience incorporating 30% byproducts in feed rations

The Dairy Farmer's Cheat Sheet

• Five immediate actions to boost profits and cut emissions
• Practical implementation steps for farms of all sizes
• Long-term strategies for sustainable dairy production

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

• Profit + Planet: The $1,200/head opportunity summarized
• Balancing emissions reduction with economic viability
• Resources for further learning

See full article at https://www.thebullvine.com/management/sustainability/cash-from-cow-burps-how-dairy-farmers-are-turning-climate-challenges-into-1200-head-profit/

When seven-year-old David Dyment landed face-down in the dirt during his first show experience, no one could have predicted he'd become one of dairy's most influential contrarians. In this compelling episode, we explore how Dyment's ability to challenge conventional wisdom transformed multiple facets of the dairy industry—from showmanship techniques to organizational restructuring and his groundbreaking "consistency over unpredictability" breeding philosophy at AG3 Genetics.

In This Episode

• Introduction and David's first showing experience
• Early years at Glen Drummond Farm and parental influence
• Evolution from reluctant 4-H participant to innovative showman
• Building a commercial cattle export business
• Boardroom leadership and the birth of Gencor
• Founding AG3 Genetics and challenging genomic trends
• Dyment's intuitive approach to showmanship
• Mentorship and influential relationships
• Other ventures and personal life
• Legacy and key takeaways

Featured Story

The episode highlights a pivotal moment when the Dyment family faced potential disaster after their prized cow, Aero Flower, failed export tests to Japan—a potential $100,000 loss in 1991. Instead of panicking, David's mother Betty announced with characteristic clarity: "There's an easy and hard way. We'll make more money the hard way." The family sold 500 embryos at $1,000 each, turning crisis into opportunity—a perfect example of the innovative thinking that would define David's career.

Key Quotes

"I wasn't interested in doing things the traditional way just because that's how they'd always been done." —David Dyment

"Transformation is my greatest achievement." —David Dyment

"Genomics without performance verification is speculation compounded by more speculation." —David Dyment on AG3's founding philosophy

"It's never about what I want in that ring. It's about what the cow needs and what the owner deserves." —David Dyment on showmanship

Practical Takeaways for Listeners

• Challenge conventional wisdom when industry practices don't align with proven results
• Focus on consistency and reliability over flashy statistics and hype
• Scale operations strategically through volume rather than maximizing margins on individual transactions
• Continuously reinvent yourself and your operation to remain relevant and innovative

About David Dyment

David Dyment transformed from a reluctant showman to a dairy industry innovator who has influenced multiple facets of the business. From his early days at Glen Drummond Farm to leadership at Gencor and founding AG3 Genetics, his career exemplifies strategic transformation. Now 62, he continues to innovate while enjoying family time at his lakeside retreat in Muskoka, alongside his wife and business partner of 40+ years, Joanne.

Read more - https://www.thebullvine.com/breeder-profiles/from-show-ring-legend-to-industry-innovator-the-david-dyment-story/

This episode of The Bullvine Podcast explores the powerful stories of three young women—Lexi Anderson, Reese Burdette, and Sydni Mell—who grew up on dairy farms and faced life-altering adversity at a young age. Lexi’s journey began with a rare heart condition that led to a community-driven fundraising effort and a life-saving heart transplant. Reese survived a devastating house fire, enduring nearly two years in intensive care and overcoming severe burns, multiple surgeries, and the loss of a limb, all while drawing strength from her family, community, and her special show cow, Pantene. Sydni’s life changed after a farm accident left her paralyzed, but she adapted with resilience, shifting her goals, advocating for farm safety, and planning to return to her family’s operation with new skills and determination. Throughout their challenges, each young woman was buoyed by the unwavering support of family, friends, and the agricultural community. Their stories highlight the unique resilience fostered by farm life, the healing power of animals, and the extraordinary solidarity found in rural communities. Ultimately, this episode is a testament to hope, adaptability, and the enduring spirit that defines America’s dairy country.

Read more https://www.thebullvine.com/youth-profiles/hearts-of-the-heartland-young-dairy-farm-girls-extraordinary-battles-for-life/

Spring is one of the most demanding times for dairy farmers, bringing a surge of stressors that can impact both mental health and farm productivity. In this episode, we break down five science-backed techniques that help dairy producers not just survive, but thrive during calving season and beyond. Backed by research and real-world farmer experiences, these strategies are practical, proven, and essential for protecting your most valuable asset—your wellbeing.

Key Topics Covered

• The High Cost of Burnout:
  • Suicide rates among farmers are 3.5x higher than the general population
  • 76% of farmers report moderate to high stress during peak seasons
  • Stress-related errors cost dairy operations thousands in lost productivity annually
• Technique 1: The 5-Minute Brain Reset
  • Step outside, breathe deeply, and mindfully observe your surroundings
  • Even short nature breaks can reduce cortisol and improve focus
• Technique 2: Break the Isolation
  • Schedule daily check-ins with family, friends, or fellow producers
  • Meaningful conversations are maintenance for your mind
• Technique 3: Invest in Family Time
  • Structured family breaks lower workplace accidents and improve herd health
  • Even one protected meal or activity per week makes a difference
• Technique 4: Find Your Purpose
  • Connect daily tasks to your deeper values and farm legacy
  • Visual reminders of achievements boost resilience
• Technique 5: Celebrate Small Wins
  • Keep a daily log of small victories to trigger motivation and counter burnout
  • Recognizing progress releases dopamine and sustains energy

Fast Facts

Mental Health IndicatorFarmersGeneral PopulationDepression (moderate+)~60%17-18%Anxiety disorder55% (adults)~18%Suicide ideation2x higherBaselineLife "not worth living"25%Significantly lower

• Heat stress costs the dairy industry $1.5 billion annually
• Spring temperatures are rising, increasing early-season stress risks

Action Steps

• Start with one technique that addresses your biggest challenge
• Use the “5-5-5 Reset” for quick stress relief
• Schedule a 10-minute daily conversation to break isolation
• Block out family time, even during busy weeks
• Create a visible “farm story” board or log daily wins

Key Takeaway

Protecting your mental health isn’t a luxury—it’s a survival strategy for your farm and your family. Start small, stay consistent, and remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup.

If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a fellow producer and subscribe for more practical dairy insights from The Bullvine.

This episode is based on the article “5 Powerful Stress-Busting Techniques Every Dairy Farmer Needs This Spring” published at The Bullvine - https://www.thebullvine.com/mental-health/5-powerful-stress-busting-techniques-every-dairy-farmer-needs-this-spring/

Discover how Wisconsin’s Mystic Valley Dairy achieves a jaw-dropping 125-pound energy-corrected milk (ECM) average through optimized cow comfort, strategic breeding, and 100 precision practices. In this deep-dive episode, we unpack the secrets behind their industry-leading metrics—4.5% fat, 3.4% protein, and 115 cows surpassing 150,000 pounds of lifetime production.

Owner Mitch Breunig reveals why there’s no “magic bullet” in dairy success—just relentless attention to fundamentals. From their 70-30 corn silage and alfalfa forage mix to a 7-step fresh cow protocol that drives 152-pound peak milk yields, learn how this operation balances cutting-edge science with time-tested husbandry.

Key Highlights:

• Cow comfort innovations: How stall sizing for older cows added productive years to their herd.
• Genetic mastery: Breeding for balanced traits (not extremes) to maximize combined fat and protein.
• Labor philosophy: Building a team with 20% turnover in an industry plagued by staffing challenges.
• Market-smart strategies: Selling 140 high-value cows annually to offset tight milk margins.
• The 100 Little Things: Why Mitch believes excellence comes from perfecting daily routines, not chasing trends.

Featured in This Episode:

• Exclusive insights from Mitch Breunig on balancing family legacy with innovation.
• The role of Select Sires’ Kevin Jorgensen in shaping Mystic Valley’s genetic program.
• Future goals: Pushing for 9 pounds of combined fat/protein daily and 130 lb ECM.

Links & Resources:

• Visit https://www.thebullvine.com/breeder-profiles/mystic-valley-dairy-the-secret-behind-their-jaw-dropping-125-pound-ecm-average/ for full show notes and articles.
• Follow The Bullvine on Twitter/X and Facebook.

Subscribe & Review: Love this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and share it with fellow dairy professionals!

Discover how innovative dairy farmers are transforming manure management from an environmental burden into a profitable venture. This episode reveals strategies to save an average of $18 per acre in fertilizer costs while creating a marketable product selling for $20 per ton. Learn about cutting-edge techniques like biochar addition that slash harmful emissions while potentially earning carbon credits.

Key Points

1. The Hidden Goldmine: The average 100-cow dairy operation flushes away $15,000 annually in potential soil amendment products.
2. Economic Revolution:
   • 69% of farms saved money through composting
   • Average savings of approximately $18 per acre
3. From Expense to Income:
   • Case study: Bill McPhee of McPhee Farms sells surplus composted manure for $20 per ton
   • Joe Loehr slashed commercial fertilizer bills through strategic composting
4. Environmental Benefits:
   • Biochar addition reduces methane emissions by 58% (±22%)1
   • Reductions in harmful air pollutants:
     • Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) emissions dropped by 67% (±24%)
     • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by 61% (±19%)
     • Nitrogen oxides (NOx) by 70% (±22%)
5. Regulatory Compliance: Composting positions farms ahead of tightening environmental regulations.
6. Community Relations: Significant odor reduction improves neighbor relations.

Composting 101

• Biological process transforming raw manure into stable soil amendment
• Generates heat (120°F-140°F) killing pathogens and weed seeds

Investment and ROI

• Basic windrow composting system for 200-cow dairy:
  • Initial equipment cost: $20,000-45,000
  • Site preparation: $5,000-10,000
  • Monitoring equipment: $500-1,000
• ROI typically achieved in 2-3 years

Challenges and Solutions

• Moisture management
• Weather impacts
• Equipment maintenance

Innovations

• Biochar addition: Potential to earn carbon credits
• Anaerobic digestion for larger operations1

Action Steps for Farmers

1. Assess current situation
2. Conduct soil and manure testing
3. Build an expert team
4. Design your system
5. Track results

The Bottom Line

With potential annual impacts exceeding $100,000 for a 500-cow dairy through reduced costs, new revenue streams, and environmental benefits, composting is no longer just an environmental nice-to-have—it's a financial imperative for modern dairy operations.

Read complete article https://www.thebullvine.com/management/manure-to-money-how-smart-dairy-farmers-are-turning-waste-into-serious-profits/

Discover the incredible story of Hanoverhill Starbuck, the $2,500 Holstein calf who became a global genetic legend. From his 1979 discovery in an Ontario barn to fathering 200,000 daughters across 45 countries, Starbuck’s legacy reshaped dairy farming—and still raises critical questions about balancing genetic progress with sustainability.

Key Topics Covered

1. The Discovery: How two analysts spotted Starbuck’s potential in 1979 and turned a $2,500 gamble into a $25M genetic empire.
2. Genetic Perfection: Starbuck’s rare pedigree (sired by Elevation, out of Anacres Astronaut Ivanhoe) and his uncanny ability to transmit udder quality, protein yields, and structural soundness.
3. Global Domination: CIAQ’s strategic marketing sold 685,000 semen doses worldwide, creating show-ring legends and commercial powerhouses.
4. The Dark Side: How 95% of Quebec Holsteins became related to Starbuck by 2000, triggering inbreeding concerns and fertility challenges.
5. Modern Lessons: From cloning failures to CRISPR breakthroughs, how Starbuck’s legacy guides today’s balance of genomics and diversity.

Memorable Quotes

• “He wasn’t just good—he had that look. The kind that makes your clipboard hit the floor.” – Robert Chicoine on first seeing Starbuck.
• “Genetic progress without diversity is a short-lived triumph.” – Lessons from Starbuck’s inbreeding crisis.
• “We’re not just selecting cows—we’re curating supply chains.” – A Danish breeder on modern market adaptability.

Key Takeaways

• 🐄 Supersire Influence: 83% of North American Holsteins still carry Starbuck’s DNA, proving one bull can redefine an industry.
• ⚖️ Double-Edged Legacy: His 200,000 daughters boosted milk production but caused 6.8% inbreeding rates in Quebec herds.
• 🧬 Tech Evolution: Starbuck’s era of visual selection paved the way for today’s SNP chips and CRISPR editing.
• 🌍 Market Savvy: His 3.2% protein yields met 1980s cheese demands—a lesson in aligning genetics with market trends.
• 🔄 Ethical Breeding: Modern programs limit single-sire influence to 5%, ensuring sustainability without sacrificing progress.

Read the feature article at https://www.thebullvine.com/sire-spotlight/hanoverhill-starbucks-dna-dynasty-the-holstein-legend-bridging-20th-century-breeding-to-genomic-futures/

Discover how revolutionary colostrum feeding protocols could add $500 per heifer to your dairy operation's bottom line. In this episode, we explore cutting-edge research from the University of Guelph that challenges conventional wisdom about calf nutrition and reveals the untapped potential of transition milk.

Key Points Discussed

• Transition milk value: Second-milking colostrum contains 39.3 g/L of IgG—6.5 times higher than conventional milk
• Protocol options: Choose either 50% colostrum for days 2-3 or 10% colostrum for 14 days
• Disease management: Extended colostrum feeding serves both prevention and treatment roles
• Implementation simplicity: Requires just 5-10 minutes of daily preparation time
• Measurable results: Treatment rates for scours decreased from 23% to 8% in case study farms
• Long-term impact: Nearly a kilogram more fat-corrected milk per day in first lactation

Featured Expert

Dr. Michael Steele from the University of Guelph shares his groundbreaking research on extended colostrum feeding and explains why he compares a calf to "a ball rolling down a hill" where early nutrition decisions determine lifetime trajectory.

Practical Takeaways

1. Begin collecting and storing transition milk immediately
2. Consider implementing the simpler 2-3 day protocol before transitioning to the full 14-day approach
3. Use colostrum therapy (50/50 mix for four days) for calves showing early signs of digestive challenges
4. Delay weaning until consistent starter intake is achieved, not based on calendar dates
5. Implement proper colostrum preservation methods (freezing or potassium sorbate)

Read full article here - https://www.thebullvine.com/management/revolutionary-colostrum-protocol-adding-500-per-heifer-to-your-bottom-line/

This comprehensive report summarizes the most critical developments affecting the dairy industry this week, with detailed analysis of market conditions, policy changes, and emerging threats that dairy producers need to understand. Today's episode unpacks multiple crises hitting the industry simultaneously, from immigration policy to trade wars, alongside strategic advice for navigating these challenging times.

Trump’s $998-A-Day Migrant Fines: Is it a Death Sentence for America’s Dairy Industry?

https://www.thebullvine.com/news/trumps-998-a-day-migrant-fines-is-it-a-death-sentence-for-americas-dairy-industry/

84% Chinese Tariffs Slam US Dairy: Why Whey & Lactose Exports Face Crisis

https://www.thebullvine.com/news/84-chinese-tariffs-slam-us-dairy-why-whey-lactose-exports-face-crisis/

CME Dairy Market Report: April 10, 2025 – Cheese Blocks and Butter Prices Surged Despite Bearish USDA Outlook

https://www.thebullvine.com/news/cme-dairy-market-report-april-10-2025-cheese-blocks-and-butter-prices-surged-despite-bearish-usda-outlook/

Dairy’s Perfect Storm: Market Mayhem Reshapes Farm Profitability in 2025

https://www.thebullvine.com/news/dairys-perfect-storm-market-mayhem-reshapes-farm-profitability-in-2025/

Udder Health: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference in Dairy Profitability

https://www.thebullvine.com/news/udder-health-small-changes-that-make-a-big-difference-in-dairy-profitability/

H5N1 Crisis Hits 1,000 U.S. Dairy Herds: California Epicenter and Nevada’s New Viral Threat Demand Immediate Action

https://www.thebullvine.com/news/h5n1-crisis-hits-1000-u-s-dairy-herds-california-epicenter-and-nevadas-new-viral-threat-demand-immediate-action/

U.S. Dairy Farmers Unlikely to Cash in on Chinese Demand

https://www.thebullvine.com/news/u-s-dairy-farmers-unlikely-to-cash-in-on-chinese-demand/