Letter from a Dairy Farmer 

Spring Has Sprung 

The first bit of warmth in the air after a long, cold winter feels like crossing a finish line of sorts. Winter marks the end of another year’s marathon, and while the first few breaths of spring bring some relief from Mother Nature’s extremes, I’m reminded of all the new life getting ready to bloom. 

Some forms of new life are more literal on the farm. For one, spring marks the beginning of a busy calving season. As the weeks pass, and the days get longer, I keep a watchful eye on my cows for any signs of calving and anxiously wait to welcome new members of the growing herd.

Spring also means planting season. When the weather warms, I know it’s time to get to work, spreading fertilizer, spraying for weeds and
tilling the fields — a balancing act with the spring rains. In the coming months, those same fields will sprout alfalfa, corn and soybeans. Come harvest in the fall, they’ll help feed my herd a nutritious diet.

In between all the work on the farm that comes with the spring season, like fixing equipment and preparing for summer wheat harvest, I also spend time with my loved ones. Spring is for ballgames, graduations and family celebrations. You likely feel it too — spring is a busy time of year.

But, it’s no secret that farming is a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week commitment. My farm and animals need me no matter the weather conditions or season. And, I’m proud to care for my herd so I can do something even bigger — provide your family with the nutritious dairy products you enjoy. 

Here’s to a fresh (and busy) new season.