Wisconsin Ag Connection - Koepke Farms to Hold Open House on June 28

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Koepke Farms to Hold Open House on June 28
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 06/11/2012

The second-ever recipient of Wisconsin's Leopold Conservation Award is opening up their facilities for farm tours later this month. Koepke Farms Inc. near Oconomowoc are holding the free event on June 28.

The operation is a partnership between brothers Alan, David, Jim, and Jim's son John Koepke. The 320-cow dairy farm consists of 1,000 acres of cropland plus 150 acres of woods and wetlands. As one of the first farms in their area to adopt a completely no-till system, the family has a long history of soil conservation. They incorporate grassed waterways, contour strip cropping, diversified crop rotation, nutrient management, cover crops and barnyard runoff control into their farming practices.

Research conducted on the farm by the University of Wisconsin Discovery Farms Program from 2005 to 2008 resulted in the Koepkes making the decision to build a manure storage structure. They have altered the dairy herd's feed rations so that the manure does not contain excessive levels of phosphorus, without impacting milk production. As proof, a Holstein named 'Granny' from the farm holds the world record for lifetime milk production.

The Koepkes were also named the Dairymen of the Year at World Dairy Expo in Madison last year.

The Leopold Conservation Award, named in honor of world-renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, is comprised of $10,000 and a Leopold crystal. The award is now presented annually in eight states to private landowners who practice responsible land stewardship and management.

Organizers are asking people to RSVP for the open house by calling 608-663-4605 ext. 32.

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