Ademir Tebaroski Heindrickson Rebuilds Family Dairy with Jersey Cows

Ademir Tebaroski Heindrickson returned in 2018 to Rio Guarapuava, a community in Francisco Beltrão, Paraná, after almost two decades in Rio de Janeiro. He began rebuilding the family’s dairy operation with his parents, working to establish milk production as the main activity on the property.

He had limited experience in dairy farming when he took on the project. A municipal veterinarian provided technical assistance, while other people in the region also helped the family organise the operation. “At the beginning it was very difficult, because we did not have much experience. But we received advice and other people helped us. Today we are happy with the production and believe it is a promising activity,” Mr Heindrickson said.

The farm initially kept its cows on pasture. Because the property is small, the family later moved to confinement in a free-stall facility. The structure is described as simple and functional, and was introduced as part of the changes made to the production system.

The herd consists of Jersey cattle. Mr Heindrickson said the animals were chosen for their docile temperament and the quality of their milk. The farm currently records an average output of 24 to 25 litres per cow.

The family has also changed its buyer. After supplying a dairy processor, it sought another arrangement because of the terms offered and began selling its milk to Cooperativa Alfa nearly two months ago. “We are happy with the work they are doing,” Mr Heindrickson said.

Mr Heindrickson and his wife have two children and view investment in the dairy operation over a long period. The couple expects their children to take charge of the business and continue the work started by the family, given the resources required by the farm’s infrastructure.