UW-River falls relaunches farm and industry short course

By Blake Jackson

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UW-RF) has relaunched its Farm and Industry Short Course (FISC), a 16-week program designed to train students for careers in dairy farming and related fields. The program had been taught at UW-Madison since 1885 but was discontinued in 2021 due to a lack of demand. However, with support from the agriculture industry, UW-RF agreed to revive the program, given its strong agricultural programs.

The FISC program is designed for high school graduates who are interested in dairy farming or working in jobs that involve dairy cattle and management. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience at Mann Valley Farm, a working dairy farm operated by UW-RF. Students learn about cow structure and mobility, nutrition, dairy techniques, mastitis and milk quality, and dairy recordkeeping.

On the first day of the program, students learned about cow structure and mobility from instructor Steve Kelm, chair of the UW-RF Animal and Food Science Department and a dairy science professor. They then headed to Mann Valley Farm to see these topics firsthand. Using a mobility rating system, students studied cows and discussed with Kelm the best care for each animal to prevent it from becoming lame.

Students participating in FISC said they were impressed with the program so far. They said the combination of classroom learning and hands-on instruction is an effective teaching combination. They also acknowledged the challenges related to dairy farming, but said they are determined to operate dairy farms of their own, despite the challenges.

Kyle Menn, a sixth-generation farmer from Monroe County, said he is grateful for the opportunity to participate in the FISC program. He said he believes the program will provide him and other participants with valuable knowledge to help them become better farmers in an increasingly competitive market.

Macy Johnson, a 19-year-old from Cushing, said she is excited to learn more about dairy farming through the FISC program. She said she has always been drawn to the farming life and cannot imagine doing anything else.

The FISC program is an important asset to Wisconsin's agriculture industry. It provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in dairy farming and related fields. The program also helps to ensure that Wisconsin remains a leader in dairy production.

Photo Credit: UWRF