Ryan Breuer Dairy Field Specialist Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Sioux Center, Iowa
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
After high school, I went to college for a Bachelor of Science degree. I completed my undergraduate education at Marian University of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, majoring in pre-veterinary science/biology. In 2012 I received my doctoral degree in veterinary medicine from the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, with a special focus on food animal and bovine medicine.
Please describe your agricultural background.
The agrarian lifestyle is a way of life I know well. Farming is, and has been for generations, my family’s way of life. I come from a rural farming family in southeast Wisconsin (Slinger), where my parents own and operate a Holstein dairy farm of approximately 350 head and milk approximately 150 cows. I am the eldest and the only son of four children. The farm is where I gained experience and interest in the care and health of animals.
I most enjoyed working with the calves – making sure they were fed and cleaned properly, and received all vaccines and medicines when needed. In primary school, I stayed active in agricultural programs and clubs (4-H, Junior Holstein Association and FFA), which helped lead me to my community involvement. I became a member of different agricultural supporting organizations, which include the FFA Alumni organization and the Farm Bureau Federation.
What territory will you cover?
I am the dairy field specialist for northwest Iowa and will serve Audubon, Buena Vista, Calhoun, Carroll, Cherokee, Clay, Crawford, Dickinson, Emmet, Humboldt, Ida, Kossuth, Lyon, Monona, O’Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pocahontas, Sac, Sioux, Webster and Woodbury counties. My office will be in the Sioux County Extension Office in Orange City, Iowa.
What are your new responsibilities?
As an Iowa State University Extension dairy field specialist, I hope to provide important keys for success to dairy producers and dairy industry personnel by keeping them up-to-date with the newest dairy cattle advancements, research and industry support tools available. Through the use of these tools (informational pamphlets and workshops, instructional meetings and on-farm dairy programs), knowledge can be gained on animal nutrition, quality management on the farm and environment, health and well-being for dairy animals, etc.
What previous positions have you held?
I have worked in private practice following school as a large animal veterinarian. Prior appointments were held at River Valley Veterinary Clinic in Plain, Wisconsin, and Mayville Animal Clinic in Mayville, Wisconsin.
Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
My family and friends, and mentors and colleagues of my veterinary profession and training.
How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
In achieving the goals set above, I hope that the information and opportunities gained through extension support will help these individuals operate more efficiently and effectively, while still maintaining high standards of animal welfare and health, to produce excellent quality products for consumers.
Why did you choose this company?
I sought the chance to work with ISUEO as a dairy field specialist because it offers me the chance to do what I enjoy. I enjoy working with people who feed the world and choose dairying as their profession. Farming is a challenging but rewarding lifestyle, and to have the opportunity to help those involved in the dairy industry is an amazing experience.
What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
To enhance dairy profits and the quality of life of those who work in the dairy industry. PD
