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Wisconsin Dairy Industry Spokesperson Network Connection
February 2017

This Land is Our Land

Although we're still in the throes of winter, spring weather is right around the corner. When the snow starts to melt and the landscape becomes more vibrant, remember to educate consumers of the extraordinary care that is taken when it comes to not only the animals, but the environment. Talk to your neighbors about how dairy famers work with experts to find new ways to reduce energy use, conserve water and develop renewable energy sources. Remind them that dairy farmers live on or near the land that they farm, and they understand the importance of protecting natural resources. Caring for the land, air and water is a responsibility that dairy farmers share with the local community; everyone does their part to protect it.
Water Quality

Across the state, consumers express their concerns about water quality in relation to neighboring dairy farms. It is essential consumers understand that quality water is fundamental to a dairy farm; dairy farmers provide their cows with clean water, which contributes to high-quality milk. Use these talking points to reassure consumers of the importance clean, quality water plays on dairy farms.

  • State and local government agencies regularly inspect and test the water on dairy farms. The federal government also helps dairy farmers protect the water supply. For example, many farmers receive technical assistance when they upgrade manure storage facilities.
     
  • Dairy farmers continually look for innovative ways to protect and conserve the water supply. They often partner with government agencies and university experts to develop better management practices and adopt the latest technologies.
     
  • It is certainly understandable that community members want to protect their water supply. Dairy farmers feel the same way. Dairy farmers are consistently finding new ways to conserve water:
     
    » Water used to clean the milking parlor can be reused to clean alleys and then to irrigate crops.
     
    » Some dairy farms use a heat exchanger to cool the milk. As cold well water flows past the milk in a separate tube, some of the heat transfers to chill the milk. This now warm water is collected and can be used again as drinking water for cows.

Social Media 101:
Writing a Social Media Calendar

A successful social media strategy requires regular publishing and engaging with followers to see positive results. But let's face it: we're all busy. Creating a social media calendar can help you get organized to share the best content with your followers. This calendar contains all the information that you want to share on your social media platforms over a period of time – usually a month.
 
The simplest way to create a social media calendar is to write the topics you want to share on the days you want to share them. Then, begin gathering photos, writing post copy and scheduling posts.
 
Topics that provide a "behind the scenes" look into daily life on the farm do well, along with posts about community involvement and events the farm is hosting or involved in. The topics you post about should reinforce what you do on a daily basis to care for your animals and the environment. The planning may seem daunting, but in the end it ensures you are keeping your followers engaged and interested.
Dairy Link of the Month: Cheese Cupid

February is the month of love and what better way to celebrate than with wine and, of course, cheese? Cheese Cupid does the work for you, and pairs your choice wine, beer or spirit with the best accompanying cheese. Or, you can select the cheese that you prefer and Cheese Cupid works in reverse, selecting the ideal beverage. Make your own cheese plate and drinks at home, or download the pairing app to find the perfect match in a restaurant.
If you have questions about this newsletter, would like more information, or have topic ideas, please contact Brenda Murphy, bmurphy@wmmb.org ,  608-836-8820.