Technology and Rotational Grazing Enhance Danish Dairy Farm Operations

Fairview Pastures, a fifth-generation dairy farm located in Denmark, Wisconsin, is embracing modern techniques such as rotational grazing and technology to optimize its operations. Managed by Luke Wavrunek, the farm focuses on sustainable practices during National Dairy Month.

The farm employs rotational grazing for its heifers and dry cows for about half the year, allowing these animals to graze when the grass is green. Milking cows are also rotationally grazed, but only during optimal weather conditions. This approach involves a 30- to 45-day rotation period, giving pastures time to regrow and mature, particularly for dry cows.

On the technology front, Fairview Pastures uses advanced systems for custom harvesting and precise manure application. Soil samples are taken every five years to determine the nutrient needs of different fields, guiding how manure is distributed based on cropping rotation.

All cows at Fairview are equipped with necklaces fitted with pedometers. These devices monitor their rumination activity and eating time, providing vital data that helps identify health issues early based on changes in eating and rumination patterns. “All the cows have necklaces that they got for a Valentine’s Day present,” Wavrunek commented, emphasizing the farm's commitment to animal health.

The milk produced at Fairview Pastures is shipped to BelGioioso, a company that processes it into cheese. Consumers are encouraged to support local farmers by looking for the “Proudly Wisconsin” logo when purchasing cheese at stores.