The program, titled VITAL – Valuably Informed Thriving Agriculture Leader, is an educational meeting designed to enhance learning on topics related to production agriculture, with an emphasis on the dairy sector. The VITAL event promises a fun-filled and educational day featuring opportunities to expand industry knowledge, connect with agricultural and dairy-related resources, and build strong professional networks within the dairy community.

Date

Friday, March 6th from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Registration begins at 9:00 a.m.

Location

Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center in Manitowoc

7001 Gass Lake Rd
Manitowoc, WI
54220

Details

The VITAL program features a dynamic lineup of industry experts and dairy producers addressing timely and practical topics. The day begins with “Consistency at Scale: One Standard of Calf Care,” presented by Nic Schoenberger and Sophy Hensz of Kansas Dairy Development, focusing on creating reliable, high-quality calf care systems across operations. Attendees will then gain valuable insight into animal well-being during “Welfare from the Animal’s Perspective,” led by Dr. Jennifer Van Os, Extension Specialist in Animal Welfare at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Following lunch, a producer panel will bring real-world experience to the forefront with “Practical Innovation: Real-World Calf Management Strategies,” featuring Carmen VandenPlas (Synergy Dairy), Christine Bender (McFarlandale Dairy), Sophy Hensz (Kansas Dairy Development), and Pam Selz-Pralle (Selz-Pralle Dairy). The day concludes with “Reclaiming Balance After Burnout,” where Inga Orth of St. Isidore’s Dairy will share insights on maintaining personal well-being while navigating the demands of the dairy industry.

We look forward to seeing you in March!

Registration information

The registration fee is $30 per person if received by March 5.
The registration fee is $35 per person if received after March 5 and on the day of the event.

Registration includes a farm-to-table meal, breaks, and all meeting materials.

To register, contact Extension Manitowoc County at 920-683-4183; or

Visit https://go.wisc.edu/VITALmtg ↗️.

We encourage you to bring employees, friends, and family members to enjoy this valuable day away from the farm.

Contact for more information