Author: Rosalie Geiger, WMMB Board MemberDistrict 17
Ran-Rose Farms in Reedsville, WI
Like marriage and parenting, dairy farming takes a lot of heart. My husband, Randy, and I have worked together at all three for many years. Loving family was easy from day one. And somewhere along the way I fell in love with dairying.
Being a successful dairy farmer today is a conscious choice and committed effort. Good planning, technology advancements, and improved efficiencies are necessary to stay in business. And that's why, as a Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board (WMMB) director, my passion for dairy advocacy is strong-as is my commitment to the efficient use of dairy farm families' checkoff dollars.
With all of the misunderstandings about dairy products and farming floating around nowadays, we all need to consistently educate consumers on an array of truths-that Wisconsin dairy products are nutritious, delicious and safe, as well as a huge part of our state's economic well-being.
Yes, consumers need to know that lowfat dairy is research proven to be beneficial to heart health by providing essential calcium, potassium, phosphorus, protein, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin B12, riboflavin and niacin. Yes, they need to know that dairy improves bone strength and muscle building and recovery. Yes, they need to know that it is one of the most nutrition-packed natural foods available-unlike most dairy substitute products. And, yes, the WMMB is aggressively reaching out to the public to share this information with them, and promote the benefits of our Wisconsin dairy industry.
Being that February is the month of love, we're also drawing attention to playfully romantic cheese and beverage pairings with our Cheese Cupid website at www.cheesecupid.com. And Valentine's Day recipes and inspirational party tips at www.eatwisconsincheese.com/entertainment/seasonal-entertaining. Check out these fun and helpful websites, along with all of the other dairy related websites WMMB offers to the public at www.wisconsinmilkmarketingboard.com.
For nearly 150 years, our family farm has seen its share of wonderful ups and disappointing downs. We milk cows, care for our herd, grow crops, and through it all we are proud of the valuable products we produce. We love our farm and what it stands for. And look forward to watching the next generation of our family find their own passionate way to promote Wisconsin dairy, and all of its many benefits.
2.17.2015