The article discusses the Dairy Farmers of Manitoba’s (DFM) annual general meeting (AGM), which took place on December 3 in Winnipeg. The event brought together dairy farmers, industry leaders, suppliers, and government representatives to reflect on the past year’s achievements and plan for the future. Brent Achtemichuk, General Manager of DFM, emphasized the importance of the conference as a chance for the dairy community to come together, learn from each other, and celebrate excellence in cattle breeding, milk quality, and farm presentation.
The article also features an interview with David Wiens, Chair of Dairy Farmers of Canada, who discussed the national issues shaping the future of dairy, including trade, sustainability, and research. Wiens highlighted the importance of stability and certainty for dairy farmers, particularly with the upcoming 2026 CUSMA review, which could have significant consequences for supply-managed sectors. He also emphasized the need for provinces to work together and for closer ties with other agricultural sectors to present a unified voice to the government.
The article also touches on the trend of robotic dairy farming, with over 20% of dairy farms nationwide now using robots, and more than 35% in Western Canada. Nicholas Vink, Sales Support Specialist with DeLaval Canada, noted that robotics improves productivity, health monitoring, breeding decisions, and long-term sustainability. However, capital investment remains a significant barrier for many farmers.
The author, Harry Siemens, reflects on his own experience growing up on a farm, where he milked a single Jersey cow by hand. He notes that the dairy industry has undergone significant changes since then, with the adoption of robotic milking systems and other technologies. However, the core principles of dairy farming remain the same: caring for the cow, stewarding the land, and building a future for the next generation.
Overall, the article highlights the importance of community, innovation, and sustainability in the dairy industry, as well as the need for stability and certainty in the face of trade uncertainty and economic pressures. It also celebrates the progress made in dairy farming, from traditional hand-milking to modern robotic systems, and the continued commitment to caring for cows and the land.