More than 120 farmwomen and industry peers gathered together August 16 for Vita Plus Expedition Chick Day 2013. The annual event took place at Indianhead Holsteins Ltd. in Barron, Wisconsin.

Each part of the event focused on the theme of “The Power of One,” as attendees were reminded that one small pebble can make a big ripple.

Throughout the day, the farmwomen explored ways they can make positive differences in their own lives, on their farms and in their communities.

Indianhead Holsteins Ltd. is owned and operated by Bob and Karyn Schauf and has a long history of excellence in dairy genetics.

The farm was originally owned by Karyn’s grandfather; Bob and Karyn have been farming it since 1981.

Today, in addition to marketing genetics and milking the 80 registered Holstein cows, the family runs 1,200 acres of forages, vegetable crops and recreational acres.

With an interest in biofuels, the Schaufs press canola seeds to make straight canola oil used for on-site fuel; the leftover meal is used as a dietary supplement for the cows.

Through a trucking business, the family also distributes 1,400 semi loads of sawdust annually.

As the Schaufs guided attendees on a farm tour, they explained their strategy for success is to surround themselves with great people who care as much about the farm as they do.

Nine of their employees have worked on the farm more than 12 years, and six have been a part of the business for more than 18 years.

During his breakout presentation, Peter Coyne, Vita Plus dairy service specialist, discussed strategies to make a difference for the farm’s team of employees.

He said that a culture of trust among engaged employees is a cornerstone of today’s successful farms.

To begin building this culture, managers must first make sure they are meeting their employees’ needs, which include clear expectations of job responsibilities and the necessary tools and materials to do their work correctly and efficiently.

Employees also want to know their work is valued, feel like they are part of the team and see opportunities for future growth and learning.

Katie Grinstead, a partner in Vir-Clar Farms in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, also shared some of the ways she tries to make a positive difference. Grinstead heads up her farm’s calf program and numerous other on-farm responsibilities.

In addition to being a wife and mother of three young children, she takes the lead on several volunteer projects to help consumers in her community learn more about modern agriculture.

Grinstead said the secret to balancing it all is to simply focus on the things that make you happiest.

According to Andrea Bloom, Vita Plus marketing and communications specialist, these values of hard work, commitment and passion for what you do are essential to making a difference in the local community.

That’s because, according to research from the Center for Food Integrity, the values shared between consumers and farmers are the most effective starting point for earning consumer trust.

Today’s consumers want to know that farmers share their same values, and that those values guide on-farm decisions and actions every day.

Although outreach projects like farm tours and social media campaigns are very effective, farmers can simply demonstrate their values through everyday conversations and community involvement.

To wrap up the day, keynote speaker Celeste Settrini, a rancher from Salinas, California, challenged the women to think creatively about how they can make a difference.

She said it’s a much better use of time to celebrate what you love and forget the negative voices. With that in mind, she asked attendees, “What would you do if you weren’t afraid of making a mistake?”

Chick Day 2013 attendees didn’t have to wait to get home to realize “The Power of One” and start making a difference.

Through a silent auction of several themed gift baskets, attendees raised $1,100 for AgrAbility of Wisconsin.

Since 1991, this program has assisted farmers with disabilities and their families.

The organization offers expertise in safely farming with numerous disabilities, including respiratory impairments, amputations, arthritis, and hearing and visual impairments. Many states throughout the U.S. operate similar programs.

Chick Day has become a favorite event among many Vita Plus employees, farmers and industry peers over the years. Attendees look forward to networking with their fellow producers and discovering new skills and talents they can take back to the farm.

“We are continually impressed by the hard work and passion these women bring to their farms every day,” said Kim Bremmer, Vita Plus nutrition consultant.

“Chick Day is a great opportunity to bring them all together to share ideas, celebrate agriculture and find new ways to make a big difference.” PD

Photos courtesy of Vita Plus Corporation.