By Blake Jackson
Dairy producers seeking insights into global supply chain dynamics and strategies for navigating the evolving landscape should attend the 2025 Professional Dairy Producers (PDP) Business Conference.
Held March 12-13 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wisconsin, the conference offers two days of learning and networking, with simultaneous Spanish translation and dedicated youth leadership sessions.
The opening session, “The Three-Headed Beast: Geopolitics, markets and weather,” features Dan Basse, Jacob Shapiro, and Eric Snodgrass discussing the forces shaping agriculture's future.
A key session, “Dairy is the answer: Are you ready for the question?” will explore how the dairy sector can meet global sustainability demands. Panelists Dr. Jason Clay (WWF-US), Emily Johannes (Nestlé USA), and Alisha Staggs (The Nature Conservancy) will share insights into sustainability partnerships and trends.
Over 50 sessions cover critical areas for dairy producers, including animal care and food safety. “Navigating the bird flu: Lessons from the frontlines” will feature veterinarians sharing experiences from the H5N1 outbreak.
Dr. Trevor DeVries will present “Transition cow triumph: Avoiding stress to achieve success,” offering actionable tips for managing nutrition, housing, and stress.
Hands-on learning is available in “Nature’s milk machine: a view from the inside,” a udder dissection lab led by Dr. Alysia Vang and Natalia Teixeira. “Cows & robots: Motivating voluntary milking,” presented by Dr. DeVries, will explore optimizing automated milking systems.
The conference also features an expanded Hall of Ideas Equipment and Trade Show, showcasing industry suppliers. Networking opportunities abound, including the “Evening on the Square,” offering live entertainment and Wisconsin food and beverages.
Limited exhibit booth space and sponsorship opportunities remain. Contact Caitlin Roy at croy@pdpw.org or 800-947-7379 for details.
Register for the 2025 Business Conference today by visiting the event website. This conference is a must-attend for dairy producers seeking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry.
Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo
Categories: Wisconsin, Business