By Blake Jackson
The health and wellbeing of dairy cows significantly influence a farm’s productivity and profitability. The 2025 Dairy Wellbeing Workshop, hosted by Professional Dairy Producers (PDP), offers a valuable opportunity for dairy team members to gain practical insights from industry experts.
The program also includes a behind-the-scenes look at a beef processing facility, demonstrating how on-farm animal care choices affect beef quality.
The one-day workshop will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 19, and Thursday, Nov. 20, at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay, Wis. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m., with the program concluding at 3:45 p.m. each day.
Sessions will be conducted in English with simultaneous Spanish translation, ensuring accessibility for all dairy team members.
“The Dairy Wellbeing Workshop offers attendees a one-of-a-kind experience,” said Cassandra Strupp, Richfield, Wis., dairy producer and PDP Program Manager. “Not only does it combine classroom-style learning and a walk-through tour of a processing facility, it also features simultaneous Spanish translation, allowing every member of the dairy team to learn at a high level.”
Each day begins with a guided tour of the American Foods Group facility, where participants will trace the journey of a cull cow from harvest floor to cooler. Industry experts, including beef buyers, market specialists, and USDA meat inspectors, will provide insights on carcass conditions, body condition, and condemned animals, emphasizing how on-farm practices impact beef quality.
Dr. Jennifer Van Os, PhD, associate professor and extension specialist at University of Wisconsin-Madison, will lead the session “Practicing the principles: stockmanship in action.” Attendees will improve stockmanship and animal handling skills through interactive exercises designed to promote calmer cows, safer handlers, and more productive herds.
Dr. Laura Solano, DVM, PhD, assistant professor at UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, will present “Every step counts: act early for healthier cows.” She will share prevention strategies for lameness, early detection methods, and tools for timely intervention to maintain herd health.
The Dairy Wellbeing Workshop provides up to 5.0 Dairy AdvanCE (DACE) credits and 6.0 ARPAS continuing education credits. Preregistration is required. Learn more and register at www.pdpw.org or by contacting PDP at 800-947-7379.
Photo Credit: istock-123ducu
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Dairy Cattle