Dairy Women Shine at VITAL 2025
March 7, 2025
Attendance
74 dairy farm women and processionals from across Wisconsin
Save the date for 2026
March 6, 2026
at the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center
On March 7, 2025, the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center hosted the VITAL event, bringing together 74 dairy farm women and professionals for a day of learning and networking. The event aimed to help attendees become better farm managers and be more profitable, focusing on the important role women play in dairy farming.
Daphne Holterman (Rosy-Lane Holsteins), and Millaine Wells (WFRV Local 5) discuss “How to be authentic and unfiltered online” during the VITAL event in Manitowoc, WI, Friday, March 7, 2025.
(Photo/Aerica Bjurstrom)
The Role of Women in Dairy Farming
Women are crucial to dairy farming, handling tasks like farm management, milking, animal care, and financial decisions. Despite challenges, their hard work keeps farms running smoothly and supports rural economies.
Attendees learned about:
- Calf Care and Transport: Best practices for keeping calves healthy during travel.
- Estate Planning: Tips for planning farm ownership changes.
- Automation: Deciding if technology is right for your farm.
- Colostrum Feeding: New strategies for healthy calf growth.
- Employee Retention: Tips for keeping skilled workers.
- Mental Health: Strategies for handling stress in dairy farming.
With participants from over 40 dairy farms, the event showcased strong community support. About 65% were first-time attendees, showing the growing need for such events.
Save the Date for 2026
Next year’s VITAL event is on March 6, 2026, at the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center.
Mark your calendars for another great day!
For more information
Angie Ulness
County Dairy Educator
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Extension
Manitowoc County
An EEO/AA employer, University of Wisconsin-Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title VI, Title IX, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
