Some Udder Stuff

News and views from across the dairy region

Posted Saturday, February 28, 2026 12:00 am

New Minnesota Farm Advocate joins

statewide network

In the face of mounting financial pressures, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture has added a new Farm Advocate to its statewide network for producer assistance.

Located in northwest Minnesota, Ron Dvergsten joins 11 other Farm Advocates who offer one-on-one help and advice to farmers facing crises caused by financial problems or natural disasters. Their services are confidential and are free of charge.

“I have worked in agriculture here in northwest Minnesota my entire life,” said Ron. “I understand the area and its diversity, having spent the majority of my career as an ag lender and Farm Business Management instructor, so I’m eager to serve Minnesota producers through the Farm Advocate Program.”

Farm Advocates like Ron provide help with financial planning, lender negotiations and farm programs. They work with producers to prepare for and attend mediation sessions and help them strategize about bankruptcy and foreclosure. Farm Advocates also provide guidance on federal and state farm programs, and referrals for legal, social and human services.

“Farmers are facing many financial pressures, from high input costs to low market prices and everyday living expenses, but they don’t have to go it alone,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. “If you feel your farm operation slipping underwater, it’s good to call a Farm Advocate as soon as possible.”

The Farm Advocate Program has been supported by the MDA since 1984 and was born out of the 1980s farm crisis. Advocates have helped thousands of Minnesota farmers over the decades.

To learn more and find the closest Farm Advocate, visit the MDA website. Minnesota farmers can directly contact a Farm Advocate closest to them.

Laura Cullip*, Hutchinson - 320-296-1569

Ron Dvergsten, Thief River Falls - 612-686-5448

Dan Hunz, Waverly - 763-772-6687

Ruth Ann Karty, Clarkfield - 320-361-9307

Brigit Lozinski, Slayton - 507-828-9955

Bruce Lubitz, Perham - 218-841-2090

Jim Molenaar, Central MN - 320-894-9124

Wayne Pike, Rochester - 507-251-1937

Wayne Schoper, New Ulm - 507-766-6677

Bob Stommes, St. Cloud - 320-443-5355

Friendly Vang-Johnson*, Minnetonka - 206-276-2284

Steve Zenk, Danube - 320-894-2517

*Specializes in assisting emerging and specialty crop farmers.

WI Holstein Association recognizes

outstanding members

The Wisconsin Holstein Association is pleased to announce its 2025 Distinguished Breeder and Service award winners. Those being recognized include: the Keller Family, Kellercrest Registered Holsteins, Mt. Horeb as Distinguished Holstein Breeder; Reggie and Krysty Kamps, Kamps-Rx as Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder; Dave and Nina Schmocker, Go-Sho Cattle Co. as the Holstein Horizon award winner, and Bob Traynor, Spring Valley, as the Marlowe Nelson Distinguished Service Award winner. These individuals will be honored at the 2026 Wisconsin Holstein Convention awards luncheon in Barneveld on Feb. 22.

World Dairy Expo annnounces 2026 associate judges

World Dairy Expo is delighted to announce the eight individuals selected to serve as associate judges of Expo’s 2026 Dairy Cattle Show. Nominated by their respective official judge and approved by a committee of Expo exhibitors, these individuals bring additional evaluation expertise to this world-renowned event. The Dairy Cattle Show will be held in Madison, Wisconsin, Sept. 27 through Oct. 2.

The complete slate of individuals who will serve as judges at World Dairy Expo 2026 are as follows:

International Ayrshire Show

Official: David Hanson, Nicollet, Minn.

Associate: Eric Houdek, Hastings, Minn.

International Brown Swiss Show

Official: Richard “RT” Thompson, Darlington, Wis.

Associate: Hayden Hauschildt, Ellsworth, Wis.

International Guernsey Show

Official: Chris Lang, Big Prairie, Ohio

Associate: Kevin Stoltzfus, East Earl, Penn.

International Holstein Show

Official: Ryan Krohlow, Poynette, Wis.