Top Dairy Farms Honored for Quality Milk

By Andi Anderson

The National Mastitis Council (NMC) has recognized six outstanding dairy farms with its prestigious Platinum award under the National Dairy Quality Awards (NDQA) program. Among them, two winners hail from Michigan: Michigan State University’s Training and Research Center and Stuart Farms Inc. from Lowell.

Beyond the Platinum recipients, 14 farms received Gold awards, while 20 secured Silver recognition. Michigan had a strong presence, contributing five Gold and ten Silver awardees. These honours showcase the state’s dedication to high-quality milk production, representing 36% and 50% of the national Gold and Silver winners, respectively.

The NDQA program recognizes farms nominated by dairy industry professionals, including veterinarians, extension specialists, and dairy plant field staff. Selection criteria include milk quality indicators like somatic cell count, as well as cow comfort, udder health monitoring, herd management strategies, and adherence to record-keeping standards.

Michigan's Award-Winning Farms

Gold Award Recipients:

• Beattie Farms, Holton
• Clearview Dairy Farm LLC, Martin
• Evergreen Dairy Farm LLC, St. Johns
• Hammond Dairy Farm LLC, Dowling
• Kortman Dairy, McBain

Silver Award Recipients:

• Bosscher Dairy LLC, McBain
• Chapin Family Farm, Remus
• Golden Elm Dairy, Frankenmuth
• Horning Farms LLC, Manchester
• J K Dairy LLC, Coopersville
• John Koch, Weidman
• Langeland Farms, Coopersville
• Pixley Dairy, Nashville
• Schultz Dairy Farm, Sandusky
• Spring Lake Farms LLC, Stanton

According to Ben Chapin, Director of Member Services at the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), 15 of the recognized farms are MMPA members. “Their dedication to animal care, meticulous attention to farm details, and ongoing efforts result in the production of some of the finest quality nationwide,” said Chapin. “The notable representation in this year's NMC National Dairy Quality Awards is a clear testament to the relentless hard work of our members and the devoted field staff in upholding excellence.”

The strong representation of Michigan farms in the NDQA highlights their commitment to excellence. NMC, founded in 1961, continues to support dairy farms worldwide in their efforts to improve udder health, milk quality, and overall dairy management.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar