Travel, be it to a different state or a different hemisphere, exposes people to new ideas and often challenges traditional thinking. As dairy farmers increasingly travel to trade shows, organize farm visits and exchanges, and more recently, "tour" farms virtually, they engage in discussions and idea exchanges on new technologies and farming techniques. I recently had the opportunity to attend the Cape Dairy Experience, South Africa's largest dairy trade show. I was there to represent my family's small business, Advanced Comfort Technology, based in Wisconsin.
Graham Finlayson, a long-time dairy enthusiast from South Africa, was interested in our company's dual-chamber cow waterbeds and invited us to exhibit at the show.
I didn't know what to expect from South African dairy farmers, despite my research online. After just one hour at the show, I realized that there is nothing like being in a new place surrounded by dairy producers, industry colleagues, general public visitors and media representatives to get the pulse on the local scene.
A number of other farmers invited Graham and I to visit their farms to learn more about how waterbeds could help solve their cow comfort and bedding management challenges.
As an outsider, it is always an honor to be invited on to the farm to talk. The conversations about the current operation is always woven with the history of the farm and family.
“I’m the seventh generation to farm here,” Faan Basson said. “I left a career in the city because I love the animals, and I love this land.”
Faan milks 350 cows outside of Malmesbury, and has a view of Cape Town’s famous Table Mountain from one of the hillsides on the farm. Faan’s family also has a small vineyard and raises sheep. Faan plans to update his milking parlor and building structures. His dream is to open a winery with views of Table Mountain from the tasting room.
In all, Graham and I talked to dozens of farmers at the show and visited ten farms. I learned about South Africa, dairying, family, and the importance of talking to folks face to face.
The most modern of the dairies I visited said they copied the designs from Cornell's dairy site to design their barns. It was like walking into a dairy in Wisconsin, New York or Pennsylvania. I felt very much "at home" in those barns.
The most modern of the dairies I visited said they used the designs from Cornell's dairy site to design their barns.
I found that dairy producers there are like sponges of information from elsewhere rather than innovating themselves.
I found that dairy producers there are like sponges of information from around the globe.
One thing rings true in all of the places I've visited, from Europe to Montana to New Zealand: Dairy farmers of all cultures are committed to providing the best in cow comfort and truly care about their cows.
It's exciting to be a part of a dynamic industry with ties around the globe. PD
PHOTOS: These images were provided by Faan Basson of his operation in South Africa.
Amy Throndsen
Marketing & International Sales
Advanced Comfort Technology, Inc.
