Seen & Herd: Recent Episodes

WUD

Industry Updates for the Modern Dairy Family

View Details

In this episode of Seen and Herd, Amanda Russell, the communications consultant for Western United Dairies, is joined by Anja Raudabaugh for an update on the Avian Influenza situation. They discuss the latest federal orders from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) concerning mandatory testing and reporting requirements for the interstate movement of lactating dairy cattle. Anja provides crucial clarifications, addresses common questions from farmers, and outlines available financial support and resources for affected farms. The conversation also covers new biosecurity measures and recommendations for minimizing influenza transmission at dairy cattle exhibitions.

View Details

This week on Seen & Herd, we provide an important update on the legislative landscape in Sacramento, focusing on the status of various bills and their implications for the agricultural sector. Our guest, Anja Raudabaugh, delves into the details of two key bills: AB 2436, concerning cattle inspection fees, and AB 2079, which aims to regulate high-capacity wells. We discuss the legislative process, the current fiscal constraints, and the ongoing negotiations to ensure fair and effective regulations. Tune in to learn about the critical developments and how they impact us.

If you have questions about this episode, please reach out to us at podcast@wudairies.com or at Anja@wudairies.com.

See the Letter of Support for AB2436: https://westernuniteddairies.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/AB2436_Cattle_Orgs_Support_Asm.Ag_._4.1.24-1.pdf

View Details

In this episode of Seen & Herd, we welcome Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh to discuss California's May budget revise. The state faces a significant $28 billion deficit, impacting numerous programs. We delve into the slowed legislative cycle and the urgent budget cuts, highlighting the impact on K-12 education, housing, homelessness, climate change, and social safety nets. Specific focus is given to the Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP), which faces funding cuts but still offers potential through federal matching funds. The episode also covers the precarious state of water projects and the challenges the oversubscribed Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund poses. Tune in for insights on the tough financial decisions and their implications for agriculture and environmental programs.

View Details

Western United Dairies CEO, Anja Raudabaugh, is back on Seen & Herd this week giving us an update on the Avian Influenza.

View Details

Paul Sousa, the Director of Environmental Services and Regulatory Affairs at Western United Dairies, joins us on the latest episode of Seen & Herd. We delve into the recent Producer Review Board (PRB) meeting held on May 1st in Tulare.

Resources:

  • CDFA Records Update
  • PRB Meeting Agenda
  • CDFA HPAI Update
  • CDFA Hardship Legal Update

For questions about this episode, please contact us at podcast@wudairies.com.

View Details

This week on Seen & Herd, Anja Raudabaugh provides us a SGMA update from Kings County.

View Details

In this episode of Seen and Heard, we welcome back Anja Raudabaugh for an update on the avian influenza situation.

Anja provides a comprehensive overview of the recent developments, including genetic mapping of the virus and the current status of California's dairy cows. The discussion delves into the origins of the outbreak, how it was initially detected through the unexpected deaths of dairy cats, and the subsequent measures taken to prevent further spread among livestock. Anja also highlights the importance of biosecurity protocols and the ongoing efforts to deter wild birds, which are carriers of the virus.

The episode emphasizes the significance of proactive management techniques in mitigating the risk of infection and concludes with a reminder of upcoming updates for producers.

For more questions about the podcast episode, please reach out to us at podcast@wudairies.com.

View Details

In this episode of Seen and Heard, Amanda Russell, the communications consultant for Western United Dairies, interviews Dr. Michael Payne regarding the avian influenza outbreak. Dr. Payne provides updates on the latest information regarding the outbreak, highlighting confirmed cases in North Carolina, South Dakota, and Ohio. Interestingly, the infected cattle in North Carolina showed no symptoms, raising concerns about asymptomatic transmission.

The discussion moves on to the recent order established for entry requirements for importing dairy cattle into California. Dr. Payne explains the enhancements made to the certificates of veterinary inspection, aiming to decrease the risk of missing animals incubating avian influenza during boundary inspections.

Dr. Payne addresses the absence of confirmed cases in California herds, offering advice to producers on preventive measures. Emphasizing the importance of biosecurity and isolation procedures, Doctor Payne recommends stringent measures for new herd additions and monitoring their health status regularly.

The episode concludes with a discussion on wild bird control and the need for proactive measures to prevent exposure to avian influenza in California. Dr. Payne stresses the significance of reporting unusual symptoms and discusses the resources available for further information.

For questions about the episode, please get in touch with us at podcast@wudairies.com.

Linked Resources:

  • CDFA Order
  • Dairy Cattle: Biosecurity Recommendations for HPAI and More
  • HPAI in Dairy Cattle FAQs
  • CDQAP Advisory: HAPI Update

View Details

In this episode, Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies, provides an update on the avian influenza outbreak affecting dairy cattle. She covers:

  • Milk and beef are SAFE to consume!
  • Precautions are crucial as symptoms emerge in dairy workers.
  • Precautions outlined for farmers, emphasizing biosecurity and collaboration with veterinarians.
  • Market implications
  • and more!

For further information, visit wudairies.com. For questions about the Influenza outbreak, please contact us at podcast@wudairies.com.

View Details

Join us this week on Seen & Herd as we dive into a recent labor webinar with Anthony Raimondo. In this webinar, Anthony reveals the most effective sick leave and PTO strategies that can help you control costs and reduce liability.

If you have questions about the webinar, please reach out to Kyle Lutz at kyle@wudairies.com.

ABOUT WESTERN UNITED DAIRIES:

  • Questions: If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at ⁠podcast@wudairies.com⁠
  • Learn More: To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit ⁠https://westernuniteddairies.com⁠.
  • Become a Member: ⁠https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership⁠

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

  • ⁠Website⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠
  • ⁠Facebook⁠
  • ⁠Apple Podcast⁠
  • ⁠Spotify⁠

View Details

On this episode of Seen & Herd, Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh recaps a LandFlex tour of Westlands Water District with Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria. The tour highlighted innovative recharge projects in the area. Assemblymember Soria, who chairs the Assembly committee, visited the district to explore the managed aquifer recharge (MAR) concept and its implications for sustainable water management.

To learn more about LandFlex, visit landflex.org. For questions about LandFlex, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com.

ABOUT WESTERN UNITED DAIRIES:

  • Questions: If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at ⁠podcast@wudairies.com⁠
  • Learn More: To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit ⁠https://westernuniteddairies.com⁠.
  • Become a Member: ⁠https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership⁠

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

  • ⁠Website⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠
  • ⁠Facebook⁠
  • ⁠Apple Podcast⁠
  • ⁠Spotify⁠

View Details

In this episode of Seen & Herd, WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh provides updates on a significant ballot measure in Sonoma County regarding confined animal feeding operations. Anja and Amanda discuss the implications, strategies, and challenges the farming community faces in combating this measure. The conversation delves into the potential impact on various aspects of agriculture, the mobilization efforts of farm bureaus, and the importance of consumer education and trust.

Learn more, and stay up-to-date, about the ballot measure by visiting SonomaCountyFamilyFarmersAlliance.com. You can read the press release at https://sonomafb.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Press-Release-w-FB-Letterhead-V4-030424-1.pdf.

For questions about the episode, please contact Anja Raudabaugh at anja@wudairies.com.

ABOUT WESTERN UNITED DAIRIES:

  • Questions: If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at ⁠podcast@wudairies.com⁠
  • Learn More: To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit ⁠https://westernuniteddairies.com⁠.
  • Become a Member: ⁠https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership⁠

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

  • ⁠Website⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠
  • ⁠Facebook⁠
  • ⁠Apple Podcast⁠
  • ⁠Spotify⁠

View Details

Paul Sousa, the Director of Environmental Services & Regulatory Affairs at Western United Dairies, joins us on this episode of Seen & Herd, where he summarizes the PRB Meeting on February 5, 2024, in Modesto.

Paul guides us through the meeting's agenda, offering his insight into the topics discussed. A copy of the meeting agenda can be found here. A thorough article summarizing the meeting can be found here.

For questions about the episode, please reach out to Paul Sousa at paul@wudairies.com.

ABOUT WESTERN UNITED DAIRIES:

  • Questions: If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at ⁠podcast@wudairies.com⁠
  • Learn More: To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit ⁠https://westernuniteddairies.com⁠.
  • Become a Member: ⁠https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership⁠

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

  • ⁠Website⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠
  • ⁠Facebook⁠
  • ⁠Apple Podcast⁠
  • ⁠Spotify⁠

Western United Dairies Foundation - ⁠⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠⁠

View Details

This week on Seen & Herd, we have a recording of the LandFlex seminar from the World Ag Expo. Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies, and Aubrey Bettencourt, CEO of the Almond Alliance, presented a LandFlex recap and discussed the immediate impact the program has made.

Tiffany LaMendola of Ever.Ag ends the episode with a market update.

For questions about LandFlex, please reach out to Anja Raudabaugh at anja@wudairies.com.

View Details

Kyle Lutz, the Technical Assistance Provider at Western United Dairies, joins us on Seen & Herd this week. Kyle gives us an update on the Dairy Technical Assistance Program (DTAP).

With support from the California Cattle Council, DTAP provides free regulatory assistance for all dairy farmers in California, including:

  • Water Quality Permitting Process
  • Assistance with Water Board Regulatory Compliance
  • Technical Support with Wastewater Paperwork Review and Documentation
  • Review of Groundwater/Surface Water Sampling and Monitoring Requirements
  • and More!

For questions about DTAP, please get in touch with Kyle Lutz at kyle@wudfoundation.com or (707)845-0348.

ABOUT WESTERN UNITED DAIRIES:

  • Questions: If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com
  • Learn More: To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.
  • Become a Member: https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

  • Website
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Apple Podcast
  • Spotify

Western United Dairies Foundation - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

In this episode, we dive into the recent board elections, legislative wins, and a preview of the upcoming Farm Show. Here are the key highlights:

  1. Board Elections: We discuss the recent board meeting where elections of officers took place, introducing new members and their roles within the organization.
  2. Legislative Wins: Delve into the recent victories in Sacramento, including the defeat of SB 709 and AB 1550 and the ongoing budget battle amidst a challenging economic climate.
  3. Upcoming Farm Show: Preview of the Western United Dairies' presence at the Farm Show, featuring seminars, legal advice sessions, and insights into groundwater management.
  4. Future Legislative Focus: A glimpse into forthcoming legislative priorities and challenges the dairy industry faces.
  5. Closing Remarks: Reminders about staying engaged with Western United Dairies through social media and upcoming events.

Tune in for a comprehensive overview of recent developments and what lies ahead for the dairy community.

  • Questions: If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com
  • Learn More: To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.
  • Become a Member: https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

  • Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com
  • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies
  • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies
  • Podcast | Seen and Herd
  • Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620
  • Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S5E03: EnviroInsights with Paul Sousa

The Skim:

Welcome to the "Seen and Herd" podcast and this segment of EnviroInsights with Paul Sousa, Western United Dairies’ very own Director of Environmental Services. Paul is dedicated to keeping the members of WUD informed and empowered in the ever-changing landscape of legislative updates and environmental programs.

Key topics include:

ARB

COP 28 - United Nations Climate Change Conference

Low Carbon Fuel Standards (LCFS)

Seen & Herd S5E02: Unpacking LCFS Changes with Paul Sousa https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620?i=1000642525909

Central Valley Water Board (CVWB) - Priority 2 Zones

CDFA Dairy Methane Funding

Call for Dairy Photos: There's a request for old dairy photos from the industry. These photos will be used on display at this year’s World Ag Expo. Those interested in sharing their photos are asked to email Rashell@wudairies.com.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com

To volunteer for dairy tours, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member: https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

In this episode of Seen & Herd, we dive deep into California's Low Carbon Fuel Standards (LCFS) and their impact on dairy farmers.

Paul Sousa, the Director of Environmental Services & Regulatory Affairs at Western United Dairies, discusses the origins of LCFS and the proposed amendments; we explore the evolving landscape of carbon intensity goals, credit systems, and the unique role of dairy biomethane.

For questions related to LCFS, please contact Paul Sousa at paul@wudairies.com.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com.

View Details

Amy Mydral Miller, the nutrition consultant for Western United Dairies, joins the podcast this week, providing an overview of the work she and the government affairs team did in 2023 and what is on the horizon for 2024.

For questions about the podcast, please contact us at podcast@wudairies.com. To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit our website at wudairies.com.

View Details

Western United Dairies CEO Anja Raudabaugh is back for the final episode of the year, where she covers the latest PRB news, an update on California's Low Carbon Fuel Standards (LCFS), news out of DC, and organization reminders for the new year.

For questions about the topics Anja covered, please contact her at anja@wudairies.com.

View Details

S4E48: 2024 Labor Law Changes - Are You Prepared? With Tony Raimondo

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Tony Raimondo presents upcoming changes to labor laws in 2024. Following the presentation Tony answers questions from viewers.

Key topics include:

For questions or a copy of the slideshow, please contact:

Anthony Raimondo - apr@raimondomiller.com

Or Kyle Lutz - kyle@wudairies.com

Call for Dairy Photos: There's a request for old dairy photos from the industry. These photos will be used on display at this year’s World Ag Expo. Those interested in sharing their photos are asked to email Rashell@wudairies.com.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com

To volunteer for dairy tours, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member: https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation
Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E47: A Short Episode Full of Updates with Amanda Russell

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Amanda Russell a communications consultant for Western United Dairies shares a few updates.

Key topics include:

Labor Webinar Announcement: An upcoming labor webinar by Tony Raimondo and Western United Dairies covering various topics such as overtime updates, wage changes, housing, and arbitration agreements. The webinar is scheduled for December 13th at 11:00 AM, and registration is required via https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Call for Dairy Photos: There's a request for old dairy photos from the industry. These photos will be used on display at this year’s World Ag Expo. Those interested in sharing their photos are asked to email Rashell@wudairies.com.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com

To volunteer for dairy tours, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E46: Bonus Episode - In-Depth Market Update with Tiffany LaMendola

The Skim:

In this BONUS episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, TIffany LaMendola of Ever.AG gives us an in-depth market report.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com

To volunteer for dairy tours, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E45: "How Dairy Innovations Are Redefining Methane Reduction with Paul Sousa"

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Paul Sousa, the Director of Regulatory Affairs at Western United Dairies, discusses the latest regarding methane emissions particularly related to livestock and the agriculture industry, focusing on California.

Key topics include:

Paul Sousa highlights the importance of reducing methane emissions due to their potent impact on climate change despite their shorter lifespan compared to carbon dioxide.

Paul talks about the significance of methane emissions from livestock, particularly dairy cows, and the ways in which these emissions occur, such as through manure and enteric emissions from rumen fermentation. Paul discusses the progress made in California in reducing methane emissions from dairy farms through various programs like the Alternative Manure Management Program (AMP) and DairyPlus.

He explains the funding available for climate-smart agriculture practices, including digester projects, manure separators, composting, and other methods aimed at reducing methane emissions and improving water quality on dairy farms. Paul emphasizes the importance of planning early for these applications to ensure a smoother process and better decision-making when selecting equipment and projects.

Additionally, there's a brief mention of a proposal to revise the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) that might exclude dairy digesters from participation due to environmental justice pressure, potentially hindering the state's progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Topic by Timestamps

00:00 - Methane's significance is highlighted, linking it to COP 28 discussions. Its potency and shorter atmospheric lifespan suggest immediate reduction benefits.

04:02 - Media often spotlights livestock methane emissions, but the broader context, including transportation and industry, is equally significant in greenhouse gas contribution.

05:18 - Methane emissions from California dairy cows are clarified, focusing on manure and enteric emissions. Ongoing discussions revolve around managing these emissions.

06:33 - Notable progress has been made in reducing methane emissions through technologies like digesters, converting methane to renewable energy.

08:55 - Funding programs supporting manure management and methane reduction projects are highlighted, indicating substantial funding available for dairy modernization.

12:44 - Challenges emerge as environmental justice pressures might limit the participation of dairy digesters in fuel standard revisions, potentially impacting greenhouse gas reduction efforts.

15:31 - The importance of early planning for future funding opportunities is stressed. Preparation for applications, equipment selection, and project decisions is encouraged.

19:15 - Urgency in early planning is reiterated to streamline the application process for funding opportunities, emphasizing the need for well-thought-out project decisions.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com

To volunteer for dairy tours, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation
Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E44: "Nov 17th PRB Meeting Recap: Dairy Drama and Referendum Rumbles!” With Anja Raudabaugh

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Anja Raudabaugh of Western United Dairies discusses the latest PRB Meeting in Tulare.

Key topics include:

The PRB meeting's agenda focuses on a termination petition and the recommendation to the Secretary of AG for a potential referendum.

There's an emphasis on the Secretary's role and the upcoming referendum process, highlighting the timeline and significance of farmer participation.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com

To volunteer for dairy tours, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E43: "CARB is on the Menu for this Thanksgiving Week Breakdown with Paul Sousa"

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Paul Sousa, of Western United Dairies, discusses his report for this month’s Board Meeting.

Paul's email:

Paul@wudairies.com

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com

To volunteer for dairy tours, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E42: “The PRB Meeting Happened On A Full Moon" | Anja Raudabaugh

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Anja Raudabaugh, the CEO of Western United Dairies, discusses the Producer Review Board Meeting, which got spicy.

Key topics include:

00:00 - Introduction

  • November 17th is the next upcoming PRB meeting.

02:20 - Recap of PRB Meeting on October 30th

  • The PRB meeting discussed critical quota issues and housekeeping items.
  • The mandatory five-year marketing survey results were mixed, causing discussions.
  • Another major issue was the decision on what to do with about $5.2 million in reserves related to the quota program.
  • A hardship request from a dairy family was denied, leading to ongoing challenges within the PRB regarding such requests.

05:47 - Hardship Requests and Producer Involvement

  • Discussion on hardship requests and the denial of a specific case.
  • Anja encourages farmers to submit hardship requests if they believe it's the right decision, emphasizing the importance of farmers having a say in how their money is used.

08:07 - Petition to Terminate Quota Program

  • Explanation of the petition process initiated by Stop QIP to terminate the quota program.
  • The PRB's division and the need for a special meeting on November 17th to discuss the petition.
  • The contentious nature of the meeting, with various motions and recommendations being offered and debated.

11:32 - Survey Results and Next Steps

  • Overview of the five-year QIP effectiveness survey and its results.
  • The PRB's motions regarding the survey include recommending a re-vote and seeking additional technical assistance.
  • The upcoming meeting on November 17th focuses on the termination petition, and producers are encouraged to participate.
  • Producers are urged to get involved, write to the Secretary, and attend the critical meeting, emphasizing the current inflection point in the quota program.

22:37 - Closing Remarks

  • Anja emphasizes the importance of robust attendance and producer involvement in the upcoming meeting.

RESOURCES DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE:

October PRB Meeting Recap - https://westernuniteddairies.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/WUD-News-10.31.23-Digital.pdf

Upcoming PRB Meeting November 17th -

https://myemail.constantcontact.com/NOTICE--PRB-Meeting---November-17th.html?soid=1114844705575&aid=r77KkMbr9uk

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

If you have any questions about the episode, shoot us an email at podcast@wudairies.com

To volunteer for dairy tours, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E41: “A Farewell To Allison" | with Anja Raudabaugh

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao is joined by Anja Raudabaugh, the CEO of WUD. They discuss various updates and issues in the dairy industry.

Key topics include:

  • A Farewell to Allison - Allison is moving on from WUD to her new role as a Resource Coordinator at the Lower Tule Irrigation District.
  • Highlights from the 2023 valley-wide tour of kitchen table meetings, including discussions about legislation, nitrates, and methane emissions.
  • Concerns about a recently qualified petition to terminate quota in California and the upcoming Producer Relations Board (PRB) meeting on this issue.
  • The ongoing debate about methane emissions and enteric regulation, along with concerns about potential increased production costs.
  • An overview of a ballot proposition in Sonoma County aimed at eliminating confined animal feeding operations over 200 animals.
  • Western United Dairies' engagement and efforts to defend the dairy industry against this proposition.
  • A mention of slower times between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

To volunteer for dairy tours, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E40: “Defending Dairy from Sacramento’s Bill Minefield" | with Jason Bryant

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Jason Bryant of Western United Dairies’ Government Affairs Team. They discuss the 2023 legislative session, which introduced over 3000 bills, and key issues, such as expanding employee rights, and reforming the state's mental health system. Budget shortfalls in Sacramento are a concern, and the economic environment remains volatile. The conversation also delves into significant political transitions, including leadership changes and upcoming elections. Key legislative priorities for the dairy industry and the need to balance cost-cutting measures with supporting agriculture are highlighted.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

To volunteer for dairy tours, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E39: "Curti Strong: The Story of Corcoran v. Curtimade Dairy"

View Details

S4E38: “Dairy Tours Are Helping Share Our Story" | with Anja Raudabaugh

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, the CEO of Western United Dairies. Here's a summary of the key points discussing a recent dairy tour hosting California Assemblywoman Esmerelda Soria, Chair of the Ag Committee:

  • Dairy Tour details:
  • Hosting Dairy - Vander Woude Dairy, Merced, CA
  • Hosting Member - Simon Vander Woude
  • Supporting Organization - CDFA
  • Sponsoring Organization - California Cattle Council
  • Key Topics Discussed During the Dairy Tour:
  • Differences between California dairy farms and others in the nation.
  • Nutrient upcycling and non-human consumable commodities.
  • Animal health, welfare, and calf care.
  • Handling nitrogen and methane emissions.
  • Challenges and successes in reducing methane emissions.
  • Concerns about dairy farmers not getting paid for emission reductions.
  • Importance of Dairy Tours for Policy and Decision Makers:
  • Tours provide an opportunity for policymakers to connect with farmers and understand modern dairy operations.
  • Personal engagement and face-to-face interactions are incredibly valuable.
  • Tours help legislators see beyond lobbyists and understand the challenges and needs of dairy farmers.
  • Future Dairy Tours by Western United Dairies:
  • Upcoming tours will focus on animal welfare, calf care, and sustainability.
  • WUD Encourages dairy producers to participate in tours and share their stories. The importance of name and face recognition within legislative districts for effective advocacy.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

TO VOLUNTEER FOR DAIRY TOURS, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E37: “Domestic Terrorists Take Aim At Animal Agriculture" | with Anja Raudabaugh

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, the CEO of Western United Dairies. Here's a summary of the key points discussing a petition ballot in Sonoma:

  • The petition, initiated by a radical animal rights group, aims to change animal agriculture in Sonoma County.
  • Anja expresses concern about the impact on various sectors of agriculture, particularly the dairy industry and its downstream economic effects. She highlights the importance of protecting the livelihoods of employees and the tertiary businesses associated with dairy farming.
  • Anja emphasizes the need for a strong response to this petition and the potential statewide and national ramifications if it succeeds.
  • The timeline for gathering 30,000 signatures to qualify for the 2024 election is March and encourages members to get involved in the fight against the petition.
  • Anja warns about the use of “predatory terms,” like Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) and factory farming by the organization behind the petition to sway public opinion.
  • She urges producers to stay alert and actively engage in efforts to counter the petition.

No Market Update This Week.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com or Paul at paul@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E36: “Deciphering California’s Regulatory Acronym Jungle" | with Paul Sousa

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Paul Sousa, the Director of Environmental Services for Western United Dairies. Here's a summary of the key points discussed:

05:00 - Low-Use Truck Regulations: Paul emphasizes the importance of responding promptly to California Air Resources Board (ARB) letters auditing mileage on low-use exemption trucks to avoid fines.

06:50 - NEW Clean Truck Check: Paul discusses the introduction of a quarterly smog check for trucks with a 14,000 GVWR and greater and the associated registration requirements, fees, and training for compliance.

https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/CTC

08:25 - Low Carbon Fuel Standards (LCFS) 2023 Proposed Amendments: Paul outlines proposed changes in LCFS, including an increase in the carbon intensity reduction target to 30% by 2030, potential impacts on dairy biomethane, and the phasing out of methane crediting for dairies starting in 2040. Impacts on California businesses are estimated at $10.4 Billion annually between 2024 and 2046.

12:43 - Livestock Enteric Methane Emission Reduction Research Program (LEMER-RP): The CDFA's research program focusing on reducing methane emissions from livestock, with the Almond Board proposing a method involving fermented almond hulls.

14:43 - Manure Methane Funding: An update on the Manure Methane funding application period, with $21 million available for AMP and $11 million for digesters, and the importance of starting the application process early.

16:30 - CV-SALTS History: Paul provides a historical perspective on CV-SALTS (Central Valley Salinity Alternatives for Long-Term Sustainability), emphasizing its role in addressing salt buildup in the Central Valley and its impact on water quality regulations, particularly regarding nitrate management zones.

21:45 - Water Quality Regulations: Paul discusses upcoming challenges and changes in water quality regulations, highlighting the importance of implementing a whole-farm nitrogen balance and various solutions for mitigating dairy-related nitrogen impacts.

24:50 - Funding Opportunities: Paul mentions available funding options, such as CDFA's Dairy Plus Program, NRCS's equipment program, and funding from the Information Reduction Act, to assist dairies in aligning with changing regulations.

Listeners are encouraged to reach out to Paul for further information or questions related to environmental issues in the dairy industry.

Other Seen and Herd Podcast Episodes with Paul Sousa:

2022 Episodes

S&H S3E43 - Environmental Policy Breakdown with Paul Sousa

2023 Episodes

S&H S4E13 - The Environmental Report You've Been Waiting For | Paul Sousa

S&H S4E20 - Clean Fleets, Methane Reductions, and Water Quality: Insights from the WUD Board Meeting | Paul Sousa

S&H S4E26 - "Advancing Sustainable Dairy: Methane Reduction Programs for Farmers" | Paul Sousa

S&H S4E30 - “Advancing Dairy Sustainability: Reducing Emissions and Improving Water Quality" | Paul Sousa

S&H S4E36 -Deciphering California’s Regulatory Acronym Jungle" | with Paul Sousa

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com or Paul at paul@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

Western United Dairies Foundation
Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

View Details

S4E35: "Join Us – Your Voice Is Valued!" | Anja Raudabaugh

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, the CEO of Western United Dairies. Here's a summary of the key points discussed about becoming a Western United Dairies Board Member:

  • WUD Board of Directors: Western United Dairies has undergone consolidation in the California dairy industry, resulting in a reformulation of its board structure. There are now 11 board members representing various geographic regions.
  • Five board positions will be up for election in the upcoming winter, with terms starting in January 2024.
  • The regions seeking new board members include:

North Valley - San Joaquin, Sacramento, Glen, and Colusa counties

North Coast - Del Norte, Humboldt, Sonoma, and Marin counties

Central Valley - Stanislaus to Fresno counties

South State - Tulare, Kern County, and San Bernardino counties

  • Time Commitment: Board members attend six meetings annually, typically scheduled bi-monthly and lasting approximately 4 hours per meeting. There may also be additional monthly Zoom meetings for those on the executive committee.
  • Benefits of Serving on the Board: Serving on the board allows dairy farmers to participate in important policy decisions in Sacramento, including advocating for the dairy industry's interests and addressing anti-dairy legislation.
  • Nominations: Nominations for board positions are being accepted, and instructions will be provided in an upcoming update in the first part of October. Anja encourages dairy farmers to consider joining the board, emphasizing that prior experience in managing their dairy is valuable, and there are no strict prerequisites.
  • Other Notes: The board plays a role in supporting the Political Action Committee (PAC), which is a separate entity from the board and helps amplify the dairy farmer’s voice in Sacramento. Overall, Anja highlights the importance of engagement and participation in shaping the future of the dairy industry in California.

No Market Update This Week.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

View Details

S4E34: “LandFlex’s Success and Future” | Anja Raudabaugh

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, the CEO of Western United Dairies. Here's a summary of the key points discussed about the LandFlex Program:

  • LandFlex Program Results: The LandFlex program, in collaboration with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) and farmers, aimed to safeguard water systems and achieve groundwater sustainability goals.

In Phase I & II, 4,317 acres of farmland were enrolled, permanently reducing aquifer demand while protecting domestic water systems. This saved water for 36,300 households and 16,161 domestic wells in the Valley.

  • LandFlex's Success: LandFlex surpassed its initial purpose as a drought program and demonstrated the potential of a community-driven solution for groundwater sustainability.

  • Future of LandFlex: Plans for Phase Two are in the works, with efforts to expand the program beyond critically over-drafted basins. The goal is to secure more funding and involve more high-priority basins. The program's success has encouraged interest from various districts and GSAs.

  • Improvements to LandFlex: The program is open to feedback and suggestions for improvements to make the process smoother for borrowers and lenders.

  • Preparing for the Future: It's essential for farmers to consider their growing operations in the context of future conditions, adjusting to minimum thresholds and reducing reliance on overdrafts. Innovation and technology deployment are crucial in managing water supply without depleting aquifers.

  • Encouraging Transition Conversations: The industry needs to think ahead and engage in transition conversations to eliminate overdrafts and ensure SGMA compliance.

Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola:

Tiffany LaMendola mentions that the dairy markets have improved compared to the previous month.

  1. *Whole Milk*: Powder prices improved due to buying interest from global regions, while skimmed milk powder prices declined.

  2. *Cheese Market*: Cheese prices were quiet until Friday when they saw some offers, with blocks closing at $1.925 and barrels at $1.8275, both down $0.04.

  3. *Butter Market*: Butter prices were relatively quiet but ended the week down $0.05 at $2.68.

  4. *Nonfat Market*: Nonfat markets saw improvement, closing the week at $1.10.

  5. *Industry Notice*: The deadline for the Dairy Revenue Protection program's fourth-quarter coverage is approaching.

Other Seen and Herd Podcast Episodes Discussing LandFlex:

S&H S3E39 - Update on Land Flex and Producer Review Board (PRB) Meeting

S&H S3E40 - Anja Raudabaugh | Second Update on LandFlex

S&H S3E45 - LandFlex Launch with Anja Raudabaugh and Aubrey Bettencourt

S&H S4E06 - LandFlex Seminar Recorded at the World Ag Expo | Anja Raudabaugh

S&H S4E09 - LandFlex Launch | Anja Raudabaugh and Aubrey Bettencourt

S&H S4E14 - LandFlex Is Here! | Anja Raudabaugh

S&H S4E22 - LandFlex Phase II | Anja Raudabaugh

S&H S4E28 - LandFlex 2.0: Updates and Challenges | Anja Raudabaugh

S&H S4E34 - LandFlex’s Success and Future | Anja Raudabaugh

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

View Details

S4E33: “Getting Involved in CMAB” | Melissa Lema

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Melissa Lema, Director of Producer Relations of the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB). Here's a summary of the key points discussed:

  • *CMAB Elections and Process*: Melissa shares that there are positions available on the CMAB Board, including multiple director and alternate roles. She explains the importance of producer input in how funds are used to market California dairy products.

The nomination period is open until Friday, September 8th.

The term for newly elected producers will start March 1st.

Reach out to Melissa if interested by email, MLema@cmab.net

Visit the California Dairy Farmers Facebook page to view a list of available positions from each district – https://www.facebook.com/groups/407653786066433/

  • *Board Member Commitment*: The interview touches on the responsibilities and commitments of board members, with two-day quarterly meetings held primarily in the Central Valley. Melissa describes the agenda of these meetings, including detailed reports from various CMAB departments.

  • *Encouraging Producer Engagement*: Throughout the interview, Melissa emphasizes the importance of producer engagement in CMAB. She encourages dairy producers to get involved, either by running for board positions or attending meetings to understand how their products are marketed.

Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola:

Tiffany LaMendola mentions that the dairy markets have improved compared to the previous month.

  1. *Cheese Market*: Cheese prices increased earlier in the week due to tighter milk supplies caused by hot weather in key production regions, particularly in the Midwest. Spot block cheese prices reached 195 cents per pound, up by half a percent from the previous week.

  2. *Butter Market*: Butter prices remained stable, closing the week at 266 cents per pound, with adequate butter stocks. Cream supplies were slightly looser.

  3. *Nonfat Market*: Nonfat dry milk faced downward pressure due to weak global demand conditions, with domestic prices dropping to their lowest since November 2020, reaching as low as $1.07 a quarter.

  4. *Upcoming Events*: Tiffany mentions the upcoming Global Dairy Trade event on Tuesday, which will provide insights into pricing and competition with Oceana for dairy exports. The upcoming week is expected to be relatively quiet as they head into mid-September.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit https://westernuniteddairies.com.

Click the Link to become a member, https://westernuniteddairies.com/membership

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

View Details

S4E32: “DTAP - Milking Insights: Navigating Dairy Challenges and Opportunities” | Kyle Lutz

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Kyle Lutz, Technical Assistance Provider of Western United Dairies, about the Dairy Technical Assistance Program (DTAP). Here's a summary of the key points discussed:

  1. *Dairy Technical Assistance Program (DTaP):* Kyle Lutz explains that DTAP (Dairy Technical Assistance Program) is funded by the California Cattle Council and assists dairy farmers in navigating regulatory challenges. The program helps farmers with water board requirements, waste discharge permits, groundwater sampling, and other regulatory compliance issues.
  2. *Challenges:* Kyle mentions that one of the significant challenges is helping farmers understand groundwater sampling requirements, which vary between different regional water boards in California.
  3. *Program Availability:* DTAP services are available to all dairy farms in California, regardless of size, trade group affiliation, or milk processor.

The conversation revolves around the current state of the dairy industry, market trends, challenges faced by dairy farmers, and the assistance DTAP provides in navigating regulatory requirements.

Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola:

  1. *Milk Production Report:* The recent milk production report for July showed a 2.5% year-over-year decline in U.S. milk production. The Southwest region experienced a significant drop of 4.4% due to tight margins and high temperatures. California's production also decreased by 5.5%, largely attributed to lower milk per cow output.
  2. *Cheese Market:* The cold storage report indicates neutral trends for butter and a bullish outlook for cheese. Cheese prices rebounded by over $0.60 in about a month's time due to increased demand, both domestically and in exports. The focus is on sustaining cheese exports beyond September.
  3. *Nonfat Market:* Nonfat market prices are under pressure, sitting around $1.10. Weak demand for dairy products from certain regions, like China, is impacting the powder markets.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

For questions about this episode, please contact Kyle at ⁠kyle@wudairies.com⁠ or Allison at ⁠allison@wudairies.com⁠

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit ⁠wudairies.com⁠.

>> ⁠Click Here⁠ to become a member!

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

View Details

S4E31: “FMMO Hearing, The Good, The Bad, and The Snark” | Anja Raudabaugh

The Skim:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, the CEO of Western United Dairies. They discuss various topics related to the Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) hearing and its implications for the dairy industry.

Here are some of the main topics discussed:

  1. Purpose of the Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO): Anja explains the purpose of the FMMO, which is to ensure an adequate national supply of fresh and wholesome milk for fluid consumption. The FMMO also aims to provide dairy farmers with stable and reliable markets to sell their milk.

  2. Components of FMMO: Anja provides an overview of the components of the FMMO, including pooling, minimum pricing, accuracy, transparency, and the relationship between dairy processors (handlers) and dairy farmers (producers).

  3. Overview of Federal Orders: The discussion touches on the fact that there are 11 federal orders across the United States, with certain regions being covered and regulated by FMMOs. The coverage of milk production by FMMOs has decreased over the years.

  4. Proposals and Changes to FMMO: Several proposals for amending or updating the FMMO are discussed. Different organizations, such as the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), National All-Jerseys, American Farm Bureau Federation, and others, have submitted proposals addressing various aspects of the FMMO.

  5. Proposed Changes to Pricing Components: Anja outlines proposals related to changing pricing components, such as class three and four skim milk price formulas, component factors, class differentials, surveyed commodity products, and more.

6.Make Allowance and Manufacturing Cost Allowance: The discussion focuses on the concept of make allowance, which is the amount deducted from a dairy farmer's milk check to cover processing costs. The proposals include suggestions for increasing the make allowance and how it might impact farmers.

  1. Organic Dairy Sector and Proposals: Anja briefly mentions a proposal from the Organic Trade Associations (OTA) to exclude the organic dairy sector from FMMO regulations but notes that this proposal was not accepted by the USDA.

  2. Timeline and Testimony Opportunities: Anja provides information about the timeline for submitting exhibits and proposals, as well as opportunities for dairy farmers to testify during the FMMO hearing. Virtual testimony slots are offered for farmers to present their viewpoints. Western United Dairies is offering help to assist members interested in their testimonies.

  3. Potential Impact on California: Allison asks about the potential impacts these changes will have on California. Anja shares how proposed changes might impact California's dairy industry, particularly due to the state's limited class one utilization, as most of California’s milk production is primarily utilized for cheese products and other classifications.

  4. Challenges and Contention: Anja acknowledges that FMMO hearings often involve passionate and contentious testimonies from both farmers and processors, highlighting the challenges of finding common ground.

  5. Conclusion and Next Steps: Anja and Allison conclude by encouraging farmers to stay informed, participate in the hearing process, and anticipate the potential effects of proposed changes on their operations.

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

>> Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E30: "Advancing Dairy Sustainability: Reducing Emissions and Improving Water Quality" | Paul Sousa

Summary:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Paul Souza, the Director of Environmental Services. They discuss the Dairy Plus Program, which is focused on reducing methane emissions and improving water quality in dairy farming. The program is funded by federal sources and aims to support advanced manure management technologies that both reduce methane emissions and benefit water quality.

Paul explains that the program encourages farms to implement technologies that reduce excess nitrogen and nutrients in the liquid waste stream. These technologies include advanced solid manure separation, composting, and nitrogen treatment processes. The program's goal is to achieve a whole farm nitrogen balance, where the nitrogen produced by cows is balanced between safe use on crops and exporting the excess.

Paul also emphasizes the importance of carefully selecting appropriate technologies and solutions for each dairy's specific needs. He warns against hastily adopting technologies without considering their effectiveness in achieving the desired goals.

Furthermore, Paul connects the program's focus on water quality improvements with upcoming changes in water quality regulations. He mentions the implementation of the City Salts nitrate control program and a new dairy general order in the Central Valley, which will have stricter requirements. Additionally, he highlights the impact of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), which could limit irrigation water availability for dairies.

Overall, the Dairy Plus Program aims to help dairies prepare for future environmental changes while reducing methane emissions and improving water quality through the adoption of advanced manure management technologies.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - ⁠https://wudfoundation.com⁠

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.
>> Click Here to become a member!

View Details

Episode Name: S4E29: Assembly Member Connelly Takes a Field Trip to The Beretta Dairy | Anja Raudabaugh

Summary:

In this episode of the "Seen and Herd" podcast, Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, the CEO of Western United Dairies. They discuss a recent policymaker tour organized by Western United Dairies Foundation (WUD Foundation). Anja emphasizes the significance of educating legislators and local officials about dairy operations through on-farm tours. The objective is to bridge the gap in understanding between policymakers and the dairy industry, with a focus on topics like animal health and welfare practices.

Anja provides more details about a specific tour involving Assembly Member Damon Connolly. During this tour, they visited Baretta Dairy and highlighted practices related to calf care, including a project on group housing for calves. Anja underscores the importance of testing and measuring metrics before enacting legislative solutions, particularly in matters concerning animal well-being.

The discussion also explores additional facets of the tour, such as the implementation of innovative technologies like screw press separators and composting operations. Anja mentions partnerships with entities like the California Cattle Council and outlines plans for upcoming tours, which will delve into topics like land flex grants and recharge potential.

The conversation concludes with Anja expressing gratitude to participating farmers and underscoring the significance of showcasing diverse practices and issues during these tours.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

Western United Dairies Foundation

Website - https://wudfoundation.com

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

>> Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E28: "LandFlex Phase II: Updates and Challenges" | Anja Raudabaugh

Summary:

On this podcast episode of "Seen and Herd," Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, CEO at Western United Dairies. They discuss the LandFlex program, an agriculture financing option for farmers.

The LandFlex program offers financial products and services tailored to farmers' needs, including purchasing real estate, making improvements to dairy operations, or leasing equipment. Anja shares updates on LandFlex’s Phase II, focusing on four Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) qualified for the program.

The applications received for Phase II were competitive, with unique approaches to protecting underground water, including prioritizing areas with heavy subsidence and areas with existing recharge. Other components of the LandFlex program, such as fallowing and transitioning away from overdrafts and the challenges farmers face in deciding to participate.

Western United Dairies invites all listeners for a roundtable discussion and feedback from farmers to improve the Land Flex program in the future.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

Other Seen and Herd Podcast Episodes Discussing LandFlex:

S&H S3E39 - Anja Raudabaugh | Update on Land Flex and Producer Review Board (PRB) Meeting

S&H S3E40 - Anja Raudabaugh | Second Update on LandFlex

S&H S3E45 - LandFlex Launch with Anja Raudabaugh and Aubrey Bettencourt

S&H S4E06 - LandFlex Seminar Recorded at the World Ag Expo | Anja Raudabaugh

S&H S4E09 - LandFlex Launch | Anja Raudabaugh and Aubrey Bettencourt

S&H S4E14 - LandFlex Is Here! | Anja Raudabaugh

S&H S4E22 - LandFlex Phase II | Anja Raudabaugh

Visit the Western United Dairies’ Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://westernuniteddairies.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wudairies

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wudairies

Podcast | Seen and Herd

Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seen-herd/id1508160620

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6esjAxuQ3fM8U4hfURhYt8

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

>> Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E27: "Changing the Standard to 'Nutrition Density' in School Lunch Programs" | Anja Raudabaugh

Summary:

On this podcast episode of "Seen and Herd," Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, CEO at Western United Dairies. They discuss Senate Bill 348 (SB 348) and its potential impact on the dairy industry and school lunch programs. The bill, authored by Senator Nancy Skinner, aims to increase access to fresh and nutritious local ingredients for school lunch programs. However, the concern is that the bill proposes a 25-gram limit on sugar consumption in school lunches, which could have unintended consequences for dairy products.

The CEO highlights that Senator Skinner has been an ally of the dairy industry and has worked to improve school lunch programs. To address concerns about the sugar limit, the CEO and Western United Dairies have partnered with the Dairy Council of California and a nutritionist to offer amendments to the bill. These amendments focus on nutrition density and consider individual students' needs, such as higher calorie requirements for athletes.

The legislative session is longer this year, and WUD hopes to avoid a floor fight, which could be challenging for the agriculture industry. They emphasize the importance of not sacrificing one agricultural group over another and advocate for focusing on nutrition density rather than arbitrary limitations.

Anja also emphasizes the significance of lobbyists representing the dairy industry's interests without conflicts with other agricultural groups. The CEO aims to ensure that dairy products have a prominent place on school lunch menus.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

Other Seen and Herd Podcast Episodes discussing SB 348:

S&H S4E15 - Capital Punishment | Anja Raudabaugh

S&H S4E19 - "Navigating California Legislation: From Flavored Milk to Methane Reductions” | Anja Raudabaugh

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E26: "Advancing Sustainable Dairy: Methane Reduction Programs for Farmers" | Paul Sousa

Summary:

In this podcast episode of "Seen and Herd," Allison Tristao interviews Paul Sousa, Director of Environmental Services at Western United Dairies. They discuss different methane reduction programs and how they benefit dairy farmers.

California has legislation, SB 1383, which aims to reduce short-lived climate pollutants like methane. The dairy industry has made significant progress in meeting the goals set by this legislation through programs such as the Alternative Manure Management Program (AMP), the Dairy Digester Research and Development Program, and the Dairy Plus program.

The AMP provides funding to implement practices that keep manure out of lagoons, such as pasture management, compost bedded pack barns, solid separation, and conversion from flush to scrape systems. The Dairy Digester Program supports the construction of digesters to capture methane for renewable energy production. The new addition, the Dairy Plus program, focuses not only on methane reduction but also on improving water quality through advanced manure management technologies.

The funding for these programs comes from various sources, including the USDA Partnerships for Climate Smart Commodities Program, with $85 million allocated to dairy farmers over three years. Dairies interested in applying for these programs can visit the website of the California Dairy Research Foundation (CDRF) and the Office of Environmental Farming and Innovation for more information and the application process. Technical service providers are available to assist with the application process.

Paul advises dairy farmers to determine the specific program and improvements they are interested in, obtain bids and designs from contractors, and start the application process as soon as possible. The deadline for applications is August 28.

Please subscribe for notifications of future episodes.

For questions about this episode, please contact Paul at paul@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E25: California's Budget Battles: Delta Tunnels, Environmental Laws, and Water Reliability | Anja Raudabaugh

In this podcast episode of "Seen and Herd," Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies, discussing the California budget deals and key takeaways. The budget has been affected by reduced revenues, inflationary spending, and reduced investments, resulting in a $30 billion budget deficit compared to the previous year. The budget trailer bills solidify the 2023-24 budget deal and include infrastructure projects, changes to environmental laws, and healthcare programs. The controversial Delta Tunnel project was removed from the package, disappointing farmers who rely on it for water reliability. The budget also addresses land eligibility for recharge and clarifies parameters for accepting recharge water. The budget trailer bills are set to conclude, and there will be a new Assembly Speaker, which may influence future priorities.

Visit the Dairy Council of California’s Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://www.healthyeating.org

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/healthyeatingca

Twitter - https://twitter.com/healthyeating

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HealthyEatingCA

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWl7LiodvASkknswjs_HOhg

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/dairy-council-of-california

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E24: Nutrient Rich: Unveiling the Benefits of Dairy | Amy DeLisio

Summary:

In this podcast episode of "Seen and Herd," Allison Tristao interviews Amy DeLisio, CEO of the Dairy Council of California, discussing the importance of dairy nutrients. Amy is a registered dietitian and nutritionist with a public health background. She's driven by the lack of healthy food access and nutrition knowledge in underserved communities.

The Dairy Council of California, founded by dairy farmers over a century ago, focuses on food access and nutrition education. They collaborate with educators, health professionals, and the dairy community to promote dairy products as part of a healthy diet, highlighting their nutritional benefits. Dairy products contain essential nutrients like essential proteins, calcium, phosphorous, and vitamins, supporting overall wellness, chronic disease prevention, and healthy immune function.

Amy introduces the "Dairy Matrix," a combination of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds in dairy products. These compounds contribute to gut health and overall well-being. Dairy is crucial for all life stages, especially pregnancy, early childhood, adolescence, and older adults. It's linked to growth, brain health, immune function, and chronic disease prevention.

The Dairy Council's "Let's Eat Healthy Initiative" collaborates with organizations to promote nutrition education and dairy's value. They offer newsletters, resources, awards, and grants for dairy education, encouraging people to join.

Amy also discusses the Mobile Dairy Classroom program, bringing live cows to schools to teach children about food sources and dairy production. It has been popular among students and teachers for years.

The Dairy Council is celebrating June Dairy Month, including partnerships with the 49ers, PSA campaigns, activation kits, social media efforts, classroom taste-teaching sessions, nutrition webinars, and farmer and processor recognition. Amy invites all Seen and Herd listeners to visit the Dairy Council's website, follow them on social media, and join the Let's Eat Healthy Initiative for resources and partnership opportunities.

Visit the Dairy Council of California’s Website and Social Media Platforms:

Website - https://www.healthyeating.org

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/healthyeatingca

Twitter - https://twitter.com/healthyeating

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HealthyEatingCA

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWl7LiodvASkknswjs_HOhg

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/dairy-council-of-california

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E23: Victory Lap for AB 554 | Anja Raudabaugh

Summary:

Welcome back to the Seen and Herd Podcast featuring Allison Tristao, the Community Field Representative for Western United Dairies, and Anja Raudabaugh, the CEO of Western United Dairies. Anja Raudabaugh, explains AB 554 in detail, highlighting the involvement of the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) and the potential impact it would have had on animal agriculture. She discusses the efforts made by Western United Dairies and its partners to oppose the bill, including proposed amendments that were rejected. Ultimately, the bill was pulled for consideration, resulting in a victory for Western United Dairies and its partners. Raudabaugh emphasizes the importance of member engagement and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the dairy industry.

Other Seen and Herd Podcast Episodes Discussing AB 554:

S&H S4E18 - "AB 554: A Threat to Animal Agriculture - Unveiling the Extremist Agenda" | Anja Raudabaugh

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E22: LandFlex Phase II | Anja Raudabaugh

Summary:

On this episode of Seen & Herd, Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance, and Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies, discuss the LandFlex Program. They discuss the success of the program's first phase and its expansion into a second phase.

The program aims to provide flexibility to farmers, particularly during droughts and floods and focuses on groundwater recharge. They mention the importance of flood protection and mitigation, as well as the involvement of various organizations in providing technical assistance.

In the second phase, the program introduces some changes, such as a competitive selection process for grant awards and a focus on recharge. They emphasize that applying to the program does not have any negative consequences, and farmers can opt-out if the program doesn't suit their needs. Anja also clarifies some misunderstandings about the program.

To apply for LandFlex, visit:

https://landflex.org/

For Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), visit: landflex.org/faqs

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com >> To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.
Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E21: Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP) | PG&E

In this episode, Allison Tristao interviews Jomo Thorne, a senior manager for Demand Response Operations and Programs at PG&E. Jomo's role involves running a team that provides demand response programs to customers, aiming to incentivize them to reduce their electricity consumption during times of high stress or emergencies. The Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP) is a specific program that offers financial incentives to customers who reduce their energy usage when the program conditions are met. Participants in the program receive generous financial rewards and face no penalties for nonperformance. Additionally, in the case of dairy producers, where powering down a milking parlor is a non-starter, a backup generator can be used during program events without interrupting their production. Due to its benefits, Jomo recommends the ELRP as the best demand response program for dairy producers.

For general questions about PG&E's Demand Response Programs, email DemandResponseInquiries@pge.com.

To learn more about the program and enroll, customers can visit:

Website: Elrp.olivineinc.com

email: elrp-general@olivineinc.com

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com >> To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E20: Clean Fleets, Methane Reductions, and Water Quality: Insights from the WUD Board Meeting | Paul Sousa

In this episode, Paul Sousa summarizes key discussions from a recent board meeting.

The topics covered include the recently adopted Advanced Clean Fleet rule, its implications for manufacturers and companies, and the potential impact on allied industries.

Paul also shares insights from the State of the Science Summit, focusing on strategies to reduce enteric methane emissions in livestock. He highlights the significance of methane emissions, the need for voluntary adoption, and ongoing developments in the field.

Additionally, he discusses updates on water quality, including the revision of the Dairy General Order and concerns about nitrate loading in groundwater. Stay tuned to learn more about these critical issues and their implications for various sectors.

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com or Paul at paul@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E19: “Navigating California Legislation: From Flavored Milk to Methane Reductions” | Anja Raudabaugh

On this episode, Allison Tristao and Anja Raudabaugh discuss legislative bills related to the dairy industry.

SB 348

The first bill, SB 348, aims to reduce the amount of added sugar in school meals. It proposes guidelines for limiting sugar intake and increasing access to fresh and nutrient-rich foods. Raudabaugh expresses concern about the bill's potential impact on the dairy industry and emphasizes the importance of distinguishing dairy as a nutrient-dense product. They discuss the progress of the bill and the need for caution until the legislative session concludes.

More information on SB 348 - https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB348

Other Seen and Herd Episodes discussing SB 348 -

S&H S4E15 - Capital Punishment | Anja Raudabaugh

SB 709

The second bill mentioned is SB 709, which focuses on methane emission reductions for the dairy sector. Raudabaugh explains that the bill, now a two-year bill, threatens dairy digesters' ability to obtain low-carbon fuel standard credits and extend their eligibility. She highlights the industry's efforts to reduce methane emissions and its contribution to meeting climate goals. Raudabaugh criticizes the bill's intent, alleging that it aims to shut down dairy production and cause harm to the industry. She expresses relief that the bill is on hold but stresses the need to remain vigilant.

More information on SB 709 -

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB709

SB 485

The final bill discussed is SB 485, which Raudabaugh provides an update on. The bill introduces a voluntary incentive program for feed additives in the dairy industry. Raudabaugh discusses the challenges and risks associated with the bill, including the potential burden on dairy producers and the uncertainties surrounding the technology involved. She emphasizes the importance of protecting dairy farmers' interests and involving them in decision-making processes through a farmer-led working group.

More information on SB 485 -

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB485

Other Seen and Herd Episodes discussing SB 485 -

S&H S4E11 - The Enteric Fight Continues | Anja Raudabaugh

S&H S4E15 - Capital Punishment | Anja Raudabaugh

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com or Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E18: "AB 554: A Threat to Animal Agriculture - Unveiling the Extremist Agenda" | Anja Raudabaugh

Anja Raudabaugh and Allison Tristao, from Western United Dairies, discuss the potential consequences for producers if AB 554 is approved. The passing of this bill has prompted numerous organizations, some of which have never collaborated before, to unite their efforts to oppose it.

https://westernuniteddairies.com/ab-554/

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com or Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Other Dairy News:

The Landflex Portal is currently Closed. Please go to LandFlex.org for more information on the next application window.

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E17: An Inside Look at The Dairy Leadership Program  | Anthony Agueda

Anthony Agueda and Allison Tristao share their experiences from the Dairy Leadership Program. They discuss some of their favorite moments and what they look forward to as the program nears its conclusion.

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Other Dairy News: 

The Landflex Portal is currently open. Please go to LandFlex.org for more information and to start your application. 

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/. 

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E16: The DairyPlus Program | Denise Mullinax

Denise Mullinax, Executive Director of California Dairy Research Foundation, comes on the Seen & Herd Podcast to discuss the Dairy Plus Program.

Check out Denise’s last visit to the Seen & Herd Podcast - Link Below

S3E36: Climate Smart Commodities Grant - Come and Get It!

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Other Dairy News:

The Landflex Portal is currently open. Please go to LandFlex.org for more information and to start your application.

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E15: Capital Punishment | Anja Raudabaugh

In this episode, Allison Tristao and Anja Raudabaugh discuss the latest dairy news out of Sacramento.

00:00 - Intro

01:49 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola | Ever.Ag

04:00 - Interview | Anja Raudabaugh

04:10 - Enteric Emission Report & SB485 Becker Bill

15:18 - Skinner Bill SB348 will limit sugar content in the school meal program

“SB 348 will ensure that California’s school meals are nutritious and that California is a national leader in the fight against diabetes,” said Senator Skinner.

20:10 - Feedback is needed and the importance of industry tours.

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

Other Dairy News:

The Landflex Portal is currently open. Please go to LandFlex.org for more information and to start your application.

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

View Details

S4E14: Landflex Is Here! | Anja Raudabaugh

In this episode, Allison Tristao and Anja Raudabaugh discuss some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) of Landflex. 

The Landflex Portal is open starting April 18th. Please go to LandFlex.org for more information and to start your application. 

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com.

Flood Resources:

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/. 

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/ 

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E13: The Environmental Report You've Been Waiting For | Paul Sousa

In this episode, Allison Tristao and Paul Sousa discuss the ever so changing environmental world our dairy producers live in.

Topics discussed include:

  • Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board - Permitting for Expanding Dairies
  • CV Salts
  • CDFA - Manure Recycling Innovative Products (MRIP) and Digesters
  • USDA Funding Available - Inflation Reduction Act
  • Regional Board 6 Update - Lahontan Region
  • Regional Board 8 Update - Santa Ana Region
  • Tricolored Black Bird - Their Back!

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/.

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/

For questions about this episode, please contact Paul at paul@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E12: The Floods and Heroes with Stock Trailers | Anja Raudabaugh

In this episode, Allison Tristao and Anja Raudabaugh discuss the catastrophic flooding some dairies in Tulare and Kings Counties are experiencing. Allison shares how she saw the community rally around those in need. 

When dairies started to flood and herds were at risk of being lost, unnamed heroes jumped into action. Nearly every stock trailer in the South Valley was put to use. It took all kinds: Dairymen, Cattle Ranchers, Horse trailers, FFA Stock Trailers, and the like to evacuate over 100,000 cows, heifers, and calves. Resilience and community were on full display. 

Flood Resources, including Tulare County reporting forms, are available on our website at https://westernuniteddairies.com/flood-resources/. 

Read this article to learn more about the flooding in the South Valley: https://agnetwest.com/floodwaters-create-situational-crisis-for-california-dairy-farmers/ 

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E11: The Enteric Fight Continues  | Anja Raudabaugh

In this episode, Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies. They discuss the monumental strides the California dairy industry has made to decrease enteric methane and the challenges that still lie ahead.  

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com or Allison at allison@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E10: Maas Cow Gas, Maas Revenue | Maas Energy Works

In this episode, Allison Tristao interviews Daryl Maas, CEO of Maas Energy Works. They discuss dairy digesters, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG or Cow Gas) and the potential of adding another revenue stream to your operation.  

For more information on Maas Energy Works and their solutions, please visit maasenergy.com

For questions about this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E09: LandFlex Launch

In this episode, Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies and Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance discuss the latest on LandFlex.

For more information on LandFlex, please visit landflex.org

For questions about this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E08: Commodity Economics Report | Ever.Ag TeamIn this episode, Allison Tristao hosts Tiffany LaMendola, Vice President of Ever.Ag, along with her team, Shelby Meyers, Grain Market Intelligence Director and Jake Kingsley, Director of Feed Procurement. Each provides an update in their field of expertise.Visit Ever.Ag’s website: https://www.ever.ag/Tiffany LaMendola, Vice President/Risk ManagementShelby Meyers, Grain Market Intelligence DirectorJake Kingsley, Director of Feed ProcurementFor questions about the episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com.To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E07: DTAP | Dairy Technical Assistance Program

In this episode, Allison Tristao hosts Anja Radabaugh, CEO, and Kyle Lutz, Technical Assistance Provider, of Western United Dairies. Kyle facilitates the Dairy Technical Assitance Program (DTAP), a new program provided by the Western United Dairies Foundation with assistance from the California Cattle Council.

To learn more about DTAP, visit https://wudfoundation.com.

For questions about the program, please contact Kyle at kyle@wudairies.com.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E06: LandFlex Seminar Recorded at the World Ag Expo | Anja Raudabaugh

In this episode, Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies, speaks at the World Ag Expo at the LandFlex Seminar. Thanks to all of those that were in attendance. We will be posting some of the questions that were asked in this seminar across our social media platforms.

World Ag Expo

Thank you to all of our members that visited our booth at the World Ag Expo.

If you have any questions regarding topics covered in this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E05: SGMA Lesson from a Hydrologist | Thomas Harter, PhD

This week, Allison Tristao and Paul Sousa of Western United Dairies interview Dr. Thomas Harter, PhD, Distinguished Professor of UC Davis Cooperative Extension. Dr. Harter is a hydrologist that has spent the majority of his career studying California’s most prized resource, water.

In this episode, Allison, Paul and Dr. Harter discuss water from many different angles.

00:00 - Opening discussion

01:25 - Introduction by Allison Tristao

03:10 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola

06:00 - Start of Interview

06:23 - Dr. Thomas talks about he stumbled into hydrology

09:20 - How did SGMA come to fruition, and what was the intention of that program?

17:40 - SGMA & California’s regional diversity

22:35 - How can local agencies manage SGMA to reduce the negative impact on dairies and agriculture in general?

25:50 - The six indicators of a healthy aquifer: water levels, groundwater storage, water quality, seawater intrusion, land subsidence, groundwater-surface-water connectivity

30:00 - How can we, as individuals or regionally as an industry, improve even further on our water usage?

36:08 - The main challenge we face with groundwater recharge

40:15 - SGMA’s timeline is changing

50:23 - Land subsidence explained

World Ag Expo

Come see WUD at the World Ag Expo (WAE) at booths 6503 and 6603 in the Dairy Pavillion. See our schedule below.

Tuesday, February 14, 202310 am – 12 pm: Get Free Legal Advice, from Anthony Raimondo with Raimondo and Associates

12 pm – 1 pm: Learn about Hiring with Lecheros Unidos de California

1 pm – 3 pm: Get Free Legal Advice, from Anthony Raimondo with Raimondo and Associates

3 pm – 5 pm: Chat with the CEO, Anja Raudabaugh

Wednesday, February 15, 20229 am – 10 am: Learn about Hiring with Lecheros Unidos de California

10 am – 12 pm: What’s the Deal? Dairy Economics with Tiffany LaMendola

12 pm – 1 pm: Learn about Hiring with Lecheros Unidos de California

1 pm – 3 pm: Dairy Environmental In-the-Know, Paul Sousa

3 pm – 5 pm: Chat with the CEO, Anja Raudabaugh

Thursday, February 16, 20239 am – 11 am: What’s the Deal? Dairy Economics with Tiffany LaMendola

1pm – 3 pm: Dairy Environmental In-the-Know, Paul Sousa

If you have any questions regarding topics covered in this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E04: Do Tomatoes Fit Into Your Crop Rotation? | Morning Star Spotlight

This week, Allison Tristao interviews Giovanni Cavaletto, Agriculture Business Development of The Morning Star Company. They discuss tomatoes as an optional row crop for dairy farmers and how to get started with the Morning Star Company.

Contact Giovanni Cavaletto or Rigoberto Guzman for more information on their nutrition models or working with The Morning Star Company.

World Ag Expo

The Morning Star Company will be at the World Ag Expo.

Come see WUD at the World Ag Expo (WAE) at booths 6503 and 6603 in the Dairy Pavillion. See our schedule below.

Tuesday, February 14, 202310 am – 12 pm: Get Free Legal Advice, from Anthony Raimondo with Raimondo and Associates

12 pm – 1 pm: Learn about Hiring with Lecheros Unidos de California

1 pm – 3 pm: Get Free Legal Advice, from Anthony Raimondo with Raimondo and Associates

3 pm – 5 pm: Chat with the CEO, Anja Raudabaugh

Wednesday, February 15, 20229 am – 10 am: Learn about Hiring with Lecheros Unidos de California

10 am – 12 pm: What’s the Deal? Dairy Economics with Tiffany LaMendola

12 pm – 1 pm: Learn about Hiring with Lecheros Unidos de California

1 pm – 3 pm: Dairy Environmental In-the-Know, Paul Sousa

3 pm – 5 pm: Chat with the CEO, Anja Raudabaugh

Thursday, February 16, 20239 am – 11 am: What’s the Deal? Dairy Economics with Tiffany LaMendola

1pm – 3 pm: Dairy Environmental In-the-Know, Paul Sousa

If you have any questions regarding topics covered in this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E03: Message From the CEO – Anja Raudabaugh

This week, Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies. They discuss the Dairy Leaders Program, this year's challenges and the World AG Expo (WAE).

See us at the World Ag Expo (WAE) at booths 6503 and 6603 in the Dairy Pavillion.

Tuesday, February 14, 202310 am – 12 pm: Get Free Legal Advice, Anthony Raimondo with Raimondo and Associates

12 pm – 1 pm: Learn about Hiring with Lecheros Unidos de California

1 pm – 3 pm: Get Free Legal Advice, Anthony Raimondo with Raimondo and Associates

3 pm – 5 pm: Chat with the CEO, Anja Raudabaugh

Wednesday, February 15, 20229 am – 10 am: Learn about Hiring with Lecheros Unidos de California

10 am – 12 pm: What’s the Deal? Dairy Economics with Tiffany LaMendola

12 pm – 1 pm: Learn about Hiring with Lecheros Unidos de California

1 pm – 3 pm: Dairy Environmental In-the-Know, Paul Sousa

3 pm – 5 pm: Chat with the CEO, Anja Raudabaugh

Thursday, February 16, 20239 am – 11 am: What’s the Deal? Dairy Economics with Tiffany LaMendola

1 pm – 3 pm: Dairy Environmental In-the-Know, Paul Sousa

If you have any questions regarding topics covered in this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E02: Being Married to Your Work

This week, Allison Tristao interviews a husband-wife duo who allows work discussion at the dinner table. Dairy Herd Nutritionist Brad Bogdanich and his wife, dairy veterinarian Rebecca Bogdanich, discuss the importance of how nutrition consulting and veterinary care of a herd are two sides of the same coin.

If you have any questions regarding topics covered in this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S4E01: Does The Future of Managing Herd Mortality Include Composting?This week, Allison Tristao interviews Dr. Michael Payne DVM, PhD, Program Director of The California Dairy Quality Assurance Program and Paul Sousa, Director of Environmental Services & Regulatory Affairs for Western United Dairies.They discuss herd mortality management, what happens when rendering plants go offline and the advantages of composting mammals.If you have any questions regarding topics covered in this episode, please contact Paul at paul@wudairies.comTo learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E46: Bonus Episode - 2022, If you blinked, you missed it!

This week, Allison Tristao recaps the year with Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies. This is the episode that shares all of the wins for Western United Dairies and their members.

Anja mentions AB558 - S3E7: I think Doritos might be Plant Based..?

If you have any questions regarding topics covered in this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E45: Landflex Launch with Anja Raudabaugh and Aubrey Bettencourt

This week, Aubrey Bettencourt, President and CEO of the Almond Alliance, and Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies co-host a dual podcast to bring the launch of Landflex into the public light.

00:00 - Introduction

01:05 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola of Ever.Ag

04:39 - Start of discussion with Anja and Aubrey

10:50 - What does Landflex mean and do for your organization

16:29 - What are the details of Landflex

If you have any questions regarding this episode, please contact Anja at anja@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E44: The Political Climate After The Midterm Elections with Jason Bryant

This week, Allison Tristao interviews Jason Bryant, Lobbyist for Western United Dairies. Jason brings his expertise to Seen & Herd and analyzes the political climate post-midterm elections.

00:00 - Introduction

01:07 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola of Ever.Ag

04:49 - Start of interview with Jason Bryant.

05:30 - Assembly Bill (AB) 181 - California’s Statewide universal meal program for pre-k through Grade 12 expanding the School Lunch Program.

08:39 - AB 181 directly affects California-grown foods and ingredients, such as dairy products.

11:20 - California was more impactful to the congressional mid-term election than in recent history, partially due to redistricting.

15:48 - California’s State Legislature had many tight races this election cycle, 15+ with less than 1000 votes separating the top two candidates.

19:08 - With California’s new class of 37 legislators, Dairy has a unique challenge and opportunity ahead.

If you have any questions regarding this episode, please contact Allison at allison@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E43: Environmental Policy Breakdown with Paul Sousa

This week, Allison Tristao interviews Paul Sousa, Director of Environmental Services & Regulatory Affairs for Western United Dairies. Paul explains some of the latest environmental policies and how they can affect our members.

00:00 - Introduction

01:07 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola of Ever.Ag

05:06 - Interview with Paul Sousa

Paul covers an overview of:

05:40 - California Air Resources Board (ARB) – Truck Policy

08:38 - ARB and GHG reduction strategies.

12:03 - ARB is considering a reduction of the value of methane credits of dairy digesters.

12:56 - ARB is looking to implement enteric strategies

14:46 - North Coast - Member Update

16:47 - Central Valley - Conditional Use Permits may be in jeopardy

21:20 - CDFA Awarded 14 manure digester projects for $18.7 million and 27 alternative manure management projects for $18.9 million.

If you have any questions regarding this episode, please reach out to Paul Sousa at Paul@wudairies.com

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E42: An Interesting Time in the World of Water with Anja Raudabaugh

This week, Allison Tristao interviews Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies. Anja explains voluntary settlement agreements regarding some of California’s oldest water rights. Also, Anja reports the latest Landflex.

00:00 - Introduction

01:04 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola of Ever.Ag

04:32 - Interview with Anja Raudabaugh, CEO of Western United Dairies

04:53 - Voluntary Settlement Agreements

06:40 - S2E43: We’re Going to Fight

09:51 - The latest on Landflex

Production Notes: There will not be a Seen & Herd episode next week due to the holiday weekend. The next episode will be Saturday, December 3rd.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E41: Common Good Water with Val Fishman

This week, Allison Tristao interviews Val Fishman, Chief Development Officer of Common Good Water, LLC. Visit commongoodwater.com for more information.

00:00 - Introduction

01:04 - Interview with Val Fishman

Production Notes: There will not be a Market Update this week.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E40: Anja Raudabaugh

This week, Anja Raudabaugh gives a second update on Land Flex. She also explains the purpose of the Milk Producer’s Security Trust Fund and recaps their board meeting.

00:00 - Introduction

01:09 - Anja’s Land Flex Update

04:45 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola

07:45 - Anja talks about the Milk Producer’s Security Trust Fund

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E39: Anja Raudabaugh | Land Flex

This week, Anja Raudabaugh recaps the Producer Review Board (PRB) Meeting and gives an update on Land Flex.

➡️ 0:00 - Introduction

➡️ 1:15 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola

Anja Raudabaugh’s Interview:

➡️ 4:04 - Recap of the PRB Meeting.

➡️ 15:18 - Land Flex Update

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E38: Tony Raimondo | An Update on California's Labor Laws for Dairy Producers

This week, Tony Raimondo breaks down changes to California’s labor laws for dairy producers.

➡️ 0:00 - Introduction

➡️ 1:13 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola

➡️  4:48 - Tony Raimondo’s webinar on California’s labor laws.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E7: Not Good at Goodbyes

This week, Allison Tristao welcomes Melissa Lema on the podcast for a final interview. For over a decade, Melissa has been building relationships and serving the members of Western United Dairies, and although we're bummed to see her go, however, we're excited about her new role at the California Milk Advisory Board. Tiffany LaMendola also joins the podcast with a weekly market update.

Melissa Lema California Milk Advisory Board.

➡️0:00 - Introduction

➡️1:27 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola

➡️ 4:39 - Allison Tristao interviews Melissa Lema

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

S3E36: Climate Smart Commodities Grant - Come and Get It!

This week, Allison Tristao hosts Denise Mullinax of the California Dairies Research Foundation.

  • 00:00 - Introduction
  • 01:27 - Market Update by Tiffany LaMendola; EverAG
  • 05:30 - Allison Tristao interviews Denise Mullinax of the California Research Dairy Foundation about how the Climate Smart Commodities Grant will change the Dairy Industry for years to come.

To learn more about Western United Dairies, visit wudairies.com.

Click Here to become a member!

View Details

This week we're joined by Allison Tristao and Kyle Lutz, WUD's two newest team members as they introduce themselves and their roles at Western United Dairies. If you'd like to reach out to either Kyle or Allison, their email info is below.  Kyle Lutz: kyle@wudairies.com Allison Tristao: allison@wudairies.com

View Details

This week, following the market update with Tiffany LaMendola, we're joined by Owen Feenstra of Ever.Ag to discuss the Pasture, Range, Forage (PRF) Program administered by USDA. Owen covers the basics of the program and how interested producers can work through the process of purchasing PRF Insurance. For more information on PRF or any of the services Ever.Ag provides to Dairy Producers, please reach out to Owen Feenstra at:ocf@ever.ag  or Tiffany LaMendola at: tlamendola@blimling.com or visit the Ever.Ag website: https://www.ever.ag/ .

View Details

This week, in addition to a market update with our Economist Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling/Ever.Ag, we have an update from Sacramento with Anja Raudabaugh, WUD CEO. 

View Details

This week we have a market update with Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling/EverAg & we check in with Paul Sousa for some follow-up on potential changes to the Central Valley Region Dairy Order.

View Details

This week Tiffany LaMendola brings us a market update, WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh joins us to chat about the upcoming WUD Dairy Leaders program, and we hear a message from Field Rep Darby Pedrozo. 

To learn more about Dairy Leaders, click HERE If you're a dairy producer and wish to apply, click HERE If you're an allied industry member and wish to apply, click HERE

View Details

This week we catch up with Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling/Ever.Ag for a Market Update & follow that with WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh, who shares with us a little bit about WUD's newly launched TikTok campaigns.

To tune in to WUD's TikTock Channel and the Green Cow Channel, visit the links below: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@greencowca?_t=8UajcGeojIh&_r=1

https://www.tiktok.com/@wudairies?_t=8Uaje7URI54&_r=1

View Details

This week we share a market update with Kathleen Wolfley of Blimling/Ever.ag as well as a past interview with David Gosvener-Rural Crimes Investigator Tulare County District Attorney’s Office and Don Stuhmer of the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office. David and Don share how their agencies deal with issues affecting rural counties and what producers can do to be prepared for crime in their area.

View Details

This week we welcome our friend and consultant, Amy Myrdal Miller, MS, RDN, FAND, back to the program to talk a bit more about the work she's and the WUD legislative team have been doing on the Nutrition front in Sacramento. Amy covers a few of the bills we've been working hard on and what her hopes are for the rest of session and into 2023.  In addition to Amy, Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist with Blimling/ever.ag brings us a market update this wee

View Details

This week's episode kicks off with a market update, brought to us by our Economist, Tiffany LaMendola, of Blimling/ever.ag, followed by a sit-down interview Darby Pedrozo had with Andrew Gustafson, program manager for the Agriculture Incentive Program at TRC. 

For More Information on how to connect with TRC: https://agenergysavings.com/

View Details

This week we welcome Tiffany LaMendola, WUD's contract economist with Blimling/Ever.Ag to give us a run-down of this past week's roller-coaster ride in the dairy markets, after which, we're re-joined by Tiffany and  WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh  to chat about drought relief programs.  For More Information

Pasture, Range, Forage Program: https://www.rma.usda.gov/en/Policy-and-Procedure/Insurance-Plans/Pasture-Rangeland-Forage Emergency Livestock Relief Program: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSA-Public/usdafiles/emergency-relief-program/pdfs/fsa_elrp_factsheet_22_final.pdf Livestock Indemnity Program: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSA-Public/usdafiles/FactSheets/2022/fsa_lip_livestockImdemnityprogram_factsheet_2022_final_v3.pdf Land Flex Program:

View Details

This week we bring you a short & sweet episode as we roll into the holiday weekend, including a market update with our economist Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling/ever.ag & a diesel truck update with Paul Sousa, WUD’s Director of Environmental & Regulatory Affairs. We wish all of our members a Happy & Safe Fourth of July!

View Details

This week we are joined by Daryl Maas, Chief Executive Officer with our industry partner MAAS Energy Works to discuss digesters and the current market. Tiffany LaMendola at Blimling/Ever.Ag joins us for our weekly market update to round out the episode!

View Details

This week we sit down with Giovanni Cavaletto of Morningstar Tomatoes and WUD member Sean Kelley of the Stevinson Ranch to discuss the ins, outs and benefits of adding Tomatoes to a dairy's crop portfolio. We're also joined by Kathleen Wolfley of Blimling/Ever.ag for this week's Market Update. 

For more information on engaging with Morningstar, please email: info@morningstarco.com or visit: https://www.morningstarco.com/growers/

View Details

This week we welcome our partners at Blimling/Ever.Ag for a market update, and Darby sits down with Connie Kuber of Connor Agriscience to discuss her history in the industry and the Dairy Girl Network. To learn more about the Dairy Girl Network visit www.dairygirlnetwork.com or email Connie at connie@connoragriscience.com

View Details

This week we welcome back Tiffany LaMendola, our contract Economist with Blimling/Ever.Ag for a market update, and we re-share a sit-down interview with WUD Board member Cody Nicholson-Stratton from June of 2020. 

To learn more about the Foggy Bottoms Boys: https://www.foggybottomsboys.com/

View Details

This week we hear from Director of Environmental affairs, Paul Sousa with an update from last week’s board meeting, and Darby has a sit-down with Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux about the recent uptick in Rural Crime.

View Details

This week we have a market update with Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist with Blimling/Ever.Ag, after which we visit with Paul Sousa, WUD Director of Environmental Affairs, for a re-cap of the AMMP grant period following last week's deadline. We wrap with a sit down with Anja Raudabaugh, WUD CEO, who shares an update from Sacramento as the Governor's May budget revise plan is revealed.

View Details

This week we welcome a new addition to the WUD Team, Amy Myrdal Miller; to connect with Amy, or any member of the WUD team, email: info@wudairies.com

View Details

This week we bring you a market update from Tiffany LaMendola, our economist of Blimling and we are excited to share our sit-down with Veronique Lagrange of the newly minted California Dairy Innovation Center.

View Details

This week we share a market update brought to us by Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist with Blimling/Ever.Ag, and an update from Sacramento with WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh, including an exciting announcement about WUD's legislative team. We wrap with some important labor reminders from Darby in this week's "Field Rep Corner". 

View Details

This week, in addition to a very informative Market Update, we re-run our CalSavers Webinar from early March to help inform producers ahead of the looming June deadline. For more info on CalSavers, visit: https://www.calsavers.com

View Details

This week we begin our episode with a market update brought to us by our economist Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling & Associates followed by a chat with Dr. Michael Payne-Veterinarian at UCD’s School of Veterinary Medicine and Director of CDQAP-about dairy safety and crime prevention. We wrap up this week’s episode with a legislative update from WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh.

For more information on dairy safety, Dr. Payne’s mentioned resources are included below: https://files.constantcontact.com/7233ce19301/e76c9a0a-d796-4d07-a97c-e66e2a7215af.pdf?rdr=true

https://files.constantcontact.com/7233ce19301/6d5260e7-2207-447b-816c-b505d0c51f55.pdf?rdr=true

View Details

This week's episode is a replay of The Dairy Download's recent episode, Let's Talk Dairy Associations.

From “America’s Dairyland” to America’s largest dairy producing state, regional dairy associations are convening dairy producers and processors to confront some of today’s largest challenges. On the latest episode of The Dairy Download, we speak to two representatives from dairy associations in Wisconsin and California about the trends and policies impacting dairy production and processing in their respective states.

First up is Brad Legreid, executive director of the Wisconsin Dairy Products Association since 1990, who details the changes in Wisconsin’s dairy industry over the past 30 years. How have policymakers in Madison sought to modernize and expand the industry? And what challenges are top of mind for producers and processors in the state? Brad gives us the scoop in pure Brad Legreid form.

Next is Anja Raudabaugh, chief executive officer of Western United Dairies—a trade association for dairy producers in California. Anja details the complex water politics playing out in The Golden State and how the resulting policies are affecting everything from feed costs to starting and maintaining a dairy in the state

To listen to future episodes of The Dairy Download, make sure to subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform; past episode archives are available HERE.

View Details

This week we welcome Kathleen Wolfley of Blimling and Associates with our Market Update, Paul Sousa joins us for a recap of this week's ARB Workshop regarding dairies, and our labor partner, Attorney Anthony Raimondo of Raimondo Miller provides a labor law update for our members.   For more information about the services offered by Raimondo Miller, visit: https://www.raimondomiller.com/

View Details

This week we kick things off with a market update brought to us by our economist Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling & Associates, after which we welcome back to Seen & Herd, Louis Borba, in his new role as WUD's board President. Louis shares with us a little bit about his family dairy in the Turlock/Hilmar area and speaks on his hopes for WUD in the coming year. We wrap the podcast with an update from Paul Sousa about some important happenings at the California Air Resources Board this week (link below). 

CARB Workshop Agenda: Methane, Dairies and Livestock, and Renewable Natural Gas in California: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2022-03/dairy-workshop-agenda-03-29-2022.pdf

View Details

This week, due to an uptick in member questions regarding rural crime and activist issues, we re-run our interview from October of 2021 with David Gosvener - Rural Crimes Investigator Tulare County District Attorney’s Office and Don Stuhmer of the San Joaquin County Sherrif’s Office to share with us about Rural Crime School, how their agencies deal with issues affecting our rural counties, and what producers can do to be prepared for the potential of crime in their neighborhoods. 

We'll be back next week with our regular content, including a market update with Tiffany Lamendola.

View Details

This week, in addition to our market update with Economist Tiffany LaMendola, we welcome Dr. Kevin Hoogendoorn to the podcast to share a little bit about his newly developed and very popular Dairy Markets App, Zisk. Paul Sousa stops by for an Environmental/Regulatory update, and Rashell Segura shares a reminder about the service provided to members through LUC. 

For more information about Zisk, click HERE

For more information about LUC, click HERE 

View Details

This week we are re-running our recent CalSavers webinar, presented by Jonathan Hererra of the CalSavers Team.

We'll return with our regular content next week, including a market update that has a few words on how the situation in Eastern Europe may be affecting US Dairy.

View Details

This week's episode brings us a market update with Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist of Blimling and Assoc. plus a sit down with WUD's director of environmental and regulatory affairs, Paul Sousa, who shares information with us about Tri-Colored Blackbird nesting season and the quickly approaching AMMP grant period. 

For more information about Tri-Colored Blackbirds or AMMP, you can reach Paul via email at paul@wudairies.com

View Details

This week Kathleen Wolfley with Blimling and Ass. joins us with the Market Update, then we sit down with WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh to chat about AB 558 and what WUD has been doing in Sacramento over the past few weeks to see that it is amended.  For more information or to be involved in our lobbying efforts, email Anja about our PAC at anja@wudairies.com.

View Details

This week, due to our stint at the World Ag Expo, we're sharing a re-run of our interview last April with Tony Lopes of Sustainibeef. We'll return with  regular content next week!

View Details

Listen in for a special World Ag Expo 2022 episode of Seen & Herd! We are joined by some of our breakout session presenters at World Ag Expo 2022 who share a brief overview of their session, as well as a market update from economía Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling & Associates. We hope to see you at World Ag Expo 2022!

View Details

This week, in addition to our market report with Tiffany LaMendola, we are joined by Paul Sousa, Director of Environmental & Regulatory Affairs, for a comprehensive update on environmental regulations dairy producers should be keeping an eye on.

View Details

Today’s episode features a market update with Tiffany LaMendola, our economist with Blimling & Associates, followed by a COVID-19 labor law update in which Darby sits down with Kevin Piercy of Raimondo & Associates.

View Details

This week Melissa and Paul Sousa (WUD Director of Environmental Affairs) are joined by dairyman Dave Renner in a special segment to discuss Dave’s CDFA funded AMMP project. Tiffany LaMendola also joins us to share another market update rounding out the second week of the new year.

View Details

Happy 2022! This week we hit the ground running; Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist with Blimling & Associates brings us our first market update of the year, followed by Labor Attorney Anthony Raimondo, who brings our listeners an update on the slurry of Labor Law changes that took affect this month. 

View Details

This week we have Tiffany LaMendola, our economist of Blimling & Assoc. back with your holiday market update, Jennifer Giambroni of the California Milk Advisory Board sits down with Melissa to chat about the recent Real California Milk Excelerator competition finals and gives us a few tips on donation of dairy products this holiday season, and to wrap up this episode and our podcasting year, Darby and Melissa sit down with Maureen Lemos a dairy farmer, photographer and author of Lockwood III Dairy in Waterford, to share a bit about her dairy family, the work she has done in her community to help the food insecure, and her newly published children's book, Clarice The Red Cow. 

For more information about the Real California Milk Excelerator Competition:

https://info.venturefuel.net/cmab-excelerator

For More Information or to follow Maureen Lemos: 

www.https://www.claricetheredcow.com/book

https://www.facebook.com/maureen.o.lemos

Instagram: @photographer_on_a_dairy_farm

View Details

This week Paul Sousa brings us two important segments for the podcast; in lieu of a market update which Paul gives a quick update about letters which went out to Central Valley Dairy Produces this past week regarding how each parcel they own or lease is regulated. We follow that with a sit down discussion between Paul and our partners Aysha Massell and Ryan Flaherty of Sustainable Conservation regarding their recently launched groundwater recharge program and how interested farmers can implement this valuable project on their farms. 

To learn more about Sustainable Conservation's Groundwater Recharge Practice please check out the following links:  Overview Document Nitrate Management Brief Groundwater Recharge/Water Quality White Paper

View Details

This week's episode kicks off with a market update from our contract-economist, Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling and Associates. We follow the market update with, our California's Director of Dairy Sustainability, Aubrey Bettencourt, who sat down last week with Geoff Vanden Heuvel  of the More Water Now Initiative.

View Details

This week we air a special, early episode of Seen & Herd. We're thankful to our partners at California Cattlemen's Association who've graciously allowed us to re-run an episode of their podcast, The Sorting Pen, featuring Katie Roberti's interview with Dave Daley, chairman of the California Cattle Council, sharing how the Cattle Council has represented California Dairy & Cattle Producers in 2021.  We wrap with a message of gratitude from WUD's staff to our valued members and industry partners. Happy Thanksgiving!

View Details

This week we are joined by Paul Sousa, WUD Director of Environmental Affairs for an update  on all things environmental and regulatory going on in California.  For more information on any of the updates you heard today, reach out to Paul at paul@wudairies.com

View Details

Today we bring you a segment on the PRF Program from our partners at Blimling and Anja & Aubrey sit down to discuss the Land Flex Program.

View Details

Today we bring you an episode all about water featuring WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh and guest member Joe Alamo. Listen in for that along with the weekly market update with our Economist Tiffany LaMendola.

View Details

Blimling Economist Tiffany LaMendola and bring us this week’s episode, a “Top 5 in 15 minutes” of what’s happening in the dairy markets for the month ending this week. For more information on the services provided by Blimling: www.blimling.com To reach out to Tiffany: tlamendola@blimling.com

View Details

This week we visit with David Gosvener - Rural Crimes Investigator Tulare County District Attorney’s Office and Don Stuhmer of the San Joaquin County Sherrif’s Office to share with us about Rural Crime School, how their agencies deal with issues affecting our rural counties, and what producers can do to be prepared for the potential of crime in their neighborhoods.  In addition, Tiffany brings us this week's market update and Melissa shares a quick reminder for producers in the midst of California's much-needed rain this week. 

View Details

Blimling Economist Tiffany LaMendola brings us this week’s market update and Darby reminds members to register for the upcoming Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage luncheon meetings. For more information on the services provided by Blimling: www.blimling.com To reach out to Tiffany: tlamendola@blimling.com

View Details

This week's episode features a Market Report with our contract economist Tiffany LaMendola and an update on Federal Water Projects with Aubrey Bettencourt,  CA Dairy Industry's Director of Sustainability. 

To Register for the CDQAP North Coast Workshops: https://surveys.ucanr.edu/survey.cfm?surveynumber=35823

To RSVP to the WUD/Bliming & Ass. PRF Insurance Seminars: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/23RK6WR

View Details

Blimling Economists Tiffany LaMendola and Katie Burgess bring us this week’s episode, a “Top 5 in 15 minuets” of what’s happening in the dairy markets for the month ending this week. For more information on the services provided by Blimling: www.blimling.com To reach out to Tiffany: tlamendola@blimling.com

View Details

Today we bring you the weekly market update with our Economist Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling & Kevin Piercy of Raimondo & Associates sits down with Darby to discuss the currently murky world of COVID-19 for employers.

View Details

Today we bring you the weekly market update with our Economist Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling & WUD Board President Devin Gioletti sits down with Darby to recap our recent WUD Board Meeting.

View Details

This week Blimling and Assoc. shares their recent webinar: Grain and feed.... in leiu of our weekly Market Update. We follow that up with a conversation with WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh regarding methane, state budgets, and what all of that means for dairy producers.

View Details

This week our Economist Tiffany LaMendola with Blimling brings us a market update, Paul Sousa, WUD’s director of Environmental Affairs share an update from the Central Valley Water Board, and we re-run our recent webinar: Dairy Sustainability, What Do Californian’s Think.

View Details

Tiffany LaMendola, our Economist of Blimling & Assoc.  brings us a Top 5 in the Dairy Markets for a change of pace in our weekly Market Update. This can't-miss segment highlights what producers and industry folks should be watching in the Dairy markets over the coming months.  We follow the market update with a re-run of our Labor Webinar with long-time Labor Attorney and WUD partner Anthony Raimondo of Raimondo and Associates.  Today's episode wraps with a call-to-apply to our Dairy Leaders program, which launches later this fall. 

For information on drought services: https://westernuniteddairies.com/drought/

To learn more about the WUHRS program or engage with Raimondo & Associates: https://westernuniteddairies.com/issues/labor-resources/

View Details

This week we're joined by Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling for a market update and Bill Schiek of the Dairy Institute of California for a discussion about the importance of the Standards of Identity and how a recent CA ruling may have an impact on the definition of Dairy.  To learn more about the Dairy Institute: https://dairyinstitute.org/ For Drought Resources: https://westernuniteddairies.com/drought/

View Details

This week we bring you a market update with our Economist Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling, followed by a California Water update with Dairy Industry Director of Sustainability, Aubrey Bettencourt.

For more information on Drought Resources: https://westernuniteddairies.com/drought/

To contact Aubrey Bettencourt with questions or for water project assistance: aubrey@wudairies.com

View Details

This week we share a Market Update with our Economist Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling, Paul Sousa joins us to update members on a paperwork issue that may arise in the Central Valley water board Region, and Devin Gioletti, WUD's Board President sits down to discuss the ARB issue and what it means for California Dairy Families. 

For more assistance or information regarding environmental issues: paul@wudairies.com

For Drought information and assistance: https://westernuniteddairies.com/drought/

View Details

This week we hear about WUD’s Upcoming Dairy Leaders program and share the final segment of our recent USDA Drought Services Webinar featuring Risk Management Agency’s (RMA) Ryan Mortensen. For more information about the opportunities from RMA: https://www.rma.usda.gov

View Details

This week's episode features another segment from our USDA Drought Resources Webinar on July 15th, this time showcasing the programs of the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). We also have Tiffany LaMendola with our weekly Market Report, Anja Raudabaugh, WUD CEO sits down with Darby to continue the SB 1383 conversation we started with Paul Sousa Last week, and we debut a new CA Dairy radio spot that will begin airing this week. 

For more information on NRCS and their programs: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov

To visit with Anja Raudabaugh: anja@wudairies.com

View Details

This week's episode is chuck-full of updates for producers. Tiffany LaMendola, our economist with Blimling & Ass. brings us the weekly market report, Paul Sousa shares an update about CA's progress toward SB1383's deliverables, Rachele reminds us that LUC is back in action for the summer, and we run a segment from this week's USDA Drought Resources webinar which covers the programs offered to producers from the USDA Farm Services Agency.  For more information on FSA Programs: https://www.farmers.gov/ To find a USDA Service Center near you: https://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app

View Details

We’re back! This weeks’ episode kicks off with a market update brought to us by Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling & Associates. We follow Tiffany with an update on the QIP Referendum from WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh, and we round out the episode with a re-run of our meet & greet with new Dairy Industry Director of Sustainability, Aubrey Bettencourt. Stay tuned at the end of the episode for some drought funding & heat advisory reminders.

To connect with Aubrey Bettencourt: aubrey@wudairies.com

View Details

This week our steadfast economist, Tiffany LaMendola brings us the market update, Anja Raudabaugh joins for news from the CEO, and Darby sits down with Daryl Maas of Mass Energy to visit about their recent Award from the US Dairy Innovation Center and how their work with California Dairies is bringing value to our state!

View Details

This week Kathleen Wolfley of Blimling brings us a Dairy Market update and Melissa sits down with Director Veronique Lagrange of the newly formed California Dairy Innovation Center to discuss the mission of the organization and how they hope to develop and foster important market relationships for California Dairy in the coming years.

View Details

Today's episode is action packed with good information for California dairy producers. We kick off with Tiffany LaMendola, our amazing contract economist with a market update. Nic DeCastro of LandTrust joins us to talk about a unique opportunity for California ag producers, and we wrap with an introduction to WUD's newest team member, Aubrey Bettencourt, our Director of Sustainability. 

For landowners who would like to work with LandTrust, click HERE

To get in touch with Aubrey: aubrey@wudairies.com 

View Details

Today's episode kicks off with a a few reminders for dairy producers about the recent QIP referendum, followed by an update from the California Cattle Council's Justin Oldfield, and a special message for Dairy Producers as we welcome June as National Dairy Month! To Learn More about WUD's Drought Campaign: https://greencowca.com/ For more information on the Cattle Council: https://calcattlecouncil.org/

View Details

Today we have our market update with Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling, and we are joined by Paul Sousa with an update on...... and we wrap the episode by sitting down with Anja Raudabaugh and Dino Giacomazzi of United Dairy Families of California (UDFC) who shares an update/reminder about the Quota Implementation Plan Referendum and digs into details about the process, how it started, and where the organization is headed.  To learn more about UDFC: https://www.dairyfamilies.org/ Paul Sousa: paul@wudairies.com WUD Office: info@wudairies.com

View Details

This week's episode features Tiffany LaMendola, WUD's contract Economist of Blimling & Associates, with a market update. WUD Board President Devin Gioletti joins Darby with an update from our May Board of Directors Meeting. Melissa is joined by Denise Mullinax of the California Dairy Research Foundation (CDRF) for a chat about drought,  how dairies have become more water and resource efficient over the decades, and what research projects are in the "hopper" at CDRF to assist dairy producers in furthering their sustainability.

View Details

In addition to our weekly market update with Tiffany LaMendola, today we are joined by Santa Rosa Dairy Producer Jennifer Beretta who shares about her farm, the exciting and innovative projects their working on to reduce methane and increase soil health, and how their family dairy shares the story of agriculture to groups in their community and beyond. 

View Details

This week we bring listeners a dairy market update with our Contract Economist of Blimling, Tiffany LaMendola. In preparation for all of the "Ag-vocating" we're going to be doing during Dairy month in June, we re-share an interview with Tyler Ribeiro of Rib-Arrow Dairy (and WUD Board Member) and Jennifer Giambroni of CMAB talking about the importance of dairy producers presence on Social Media, and we wrap with Darby sharing a story about an important field tour that WUD gave this week with a special guest!

For more information on CMAB's programs: https://www.realcaliforniamilk.com

View Details

Today’s episode is all about the updates! Tiffany LaMendola joins us with a market update, CEO Anja Raudabaugh shares what WUD’s Leg Affairs Team has been tackling in Sacramento, and Rashell Echesveste brings us some news from Lecheros Unidos de California.

View Details

Happy Earth Week! This week's episode features a re-run of the podcast we did with Dr. Frank Mitloehner last July with a message about all of the climate benefits cattle can and do provide. In addition, we have Tiffany LaMendola with the market update and WUD President Devin Gioletti joins us for a little Earth Day message from our board. 

For More information on Dr. Mitloehner' s work: https://clear.sf.ucdavis.edu/ 

View Details

This week we kick off with our market update,  a re-run of our Virtual Kitchen Table Market Update with Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist with Blimling and Associates and Paul Sousa joins us to follow that up with an environmental update, which focuses in on issues happening in the Central Valley Regional Water Board.  Following those updates we are joined by dairy producer Jolynn McClelland of Petaluma to share her experiences as a dairy farmer in the Point Reyes National Seashore, and why the last few years have been especially challenging for her and her five fellow producers who call the PRNS home.

View Details

This week Tiffany LaMendola delivers our weekly market update date and Darby sits down with Tony Lopes of Sustainibeef to discuss his growing business and what it’s like to be a dairy producer in 2021. For more info check out https://sustainibeef.com/

View Details

Today we skip the full market update, but share some quick info about upcoming DMC payments. Rashell Escheveste brings us an update about LUC, Melissa and Darby sit down with Cesar Vargas, of Raimondo and Associates newly launched WUD Partnership, Western United Human Resource Services and we wrap with a re-run of Anja's weekly Virtual Kitchen Table Meeting: Water Rending and the Recall. 

Have a Blessed Easter!

View Details

This week's episode is chock full of updates for our CA dairy producers as we roll into spring! We kick off with Tiffany LaMendola's market update, Paul Sousa joins us for a fill-in on the NRCS front as well as a briefing on the Tri-colored blackbird situation, and we wrap the episode with Kevin Piercy of Raimondo and Associates as he updates members on the newest COVID-19 regulations that employers need to follow.

View Details

Week 11 kicks off with our market update, presented by Katie Burgess of Blimling, sitting in for Tiffany LaMendola this week. We follow that up with a sit-down between Anja Raudabaugh, Paul Sousa and our industry partner, Tyler Bennett of Bennett Environmental who shares about their company's work in the methane digester space and how they address methane digestion hand in hand with water quality concerns.

View Details

Today's episode features a re-run of The Dairy Download, a podcast from our partner organizations Blimling and IDFA. This episode (S2E3), Trucking Along: A Focus on Freight tackles the important issue of supply chain logistics and the role they play in moving product; featuring a perspective on global dairy from DairyAmerica CEO Patti Smith, a analysis from Bob Costello, Senior VP and Economist with the American Trucking Association, and a market report from Blimling's Phil Plourd and Kathleen Wolfley, hosts. 

We also hear a brief LUC update from Rashell. 

We hope you enjoy this episode and a new podcast to tune into! We'll see you next week with a return to our regular programing.

View Details

Today's episode features a market update with Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist of Blimling. We visit with Devin Gioletti, WUD's Board President about the QIP referendum that started this week, and we hear from Anja via our weekly Virtual Kitchen Table Meeting about all of the fun and exciting legislation on the table in Sacremento this year and how it's shaping WUD's policy directions. 

For more information on the QIP referendum: https://www.dairyfamilies.org/referendum-information

View Details

In this week's episode we share a market update from our contract economist, Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling, Anja brings us an update/important information on the QIP referendum that kicks off next week, and we re-play this week's member meeting, hosted by Paul Sousa, about the Tri-colored Blackbird issue, including a late-breaking update on the status of payments for crop losses. 

For further information on the Quota Sunset Referendum:  https://westernuniteddairies.com/quota/ https://www.dairyfamilies.org/

View Details

This week we try again! After a market update with Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist of Blimling, and a LUC update with Rashell Echeveste we re-run the February 4th webinar of our Cattle Council/WUD round-table. We had some major editing issues two weeks ago, and we hope the message comes through in a much clearer way this go-around. Let us know if you have questions! mlema@wudairies.com darby@wudairies.com

View Details

Happy Valentines Week! Today we hear a market update from Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist of Blimling. Darby sits down with Darryl Maas of Maas Energy Works to talk about the exciting projects they're undertaking our dairy partners, and we re-run this weeks Virtual Kitchen Table Meeting with Ashley Rosales, RDN and Program Director for Nutrition with the Dairy Council of CA who shared about the 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and what that means for the dairy industry. We wrap the show with some farm security reminders from our partners in Law Enforcement.  To check out links we mentioned: https://westernuniteddairies.com/world-ag-expo-2021/ https://www.healthyeating.org/

View Details

Today we bring you a market update with our contract economist, Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling and we re-broadcast this week's Virtual Kitchen Table meeting where California Cattle Council executive director Justin Oldfield and Board Members Jennifer Beretta, Cody Nicholson Stratton and Tyler Rebiero join WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh and Director of Leg. Affairs, Jason Bryant, to discuss a recent partnership between CCC and WUD.  For more information about the California Cattle Council: https://calcattlecouncil.org/

View Details

Today we share Tiffany LaMendola's Market Update from this week's Virtual Kitchen Table Meeting; Tiffany takes an in-depth look at the markets, where they have been and where they may be headed, as well as what options are out there for producer price supports in 2021. Tiffany's update is followed by a short producer Q&A.

Our Market update is followed by a visit from Anja Raudabaugh and Devin Gioletti, who share an update from some work we did in Sacramento this week. 

We wrap today's episode with an election reminder. For questions about elections or to nominate someone in your district, email: info@wudairies.com 

For more information on the CA Cattle Council: https://calcattlecouncil.org/

View Details

This week, as per usual, we kick off with Tiffany LaMendola, WUD's contract economist with Blimling, as she brings us a bit more volatile market update than we'd like to see in the early part of the year. Join us next week on Thursday for Tiffany's Virtual Kitchen Table Meeting Market Update.  Following Tiffany, Darby and Melissa chat with Ashley Rosales, RDN and Program Director of Nutrition Science with the Dairy Council of California. Ashely shares information on the newly released 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, what they mean for dairy, and how producers can engage with Dairy Council and other groups to encourage healthy eating patterns that include milk and other dairy products.  For more information on how to get involved with the good work Dairy Council of California is doing, visit: https://www.healthyeating.org/our-cause/join-the-movement Anja Raudabaugh, WUD CEO joins us to share the news about WUD's newest member service, Western United Human Resource Services (WUHRS), a partnership with Raimondo and Associates which will rolls out this week. Visit our website to learn more about how to sign up.  We round out the episode with and update from our LUC program with Rashelle Segura and some quick tid-bits about the new round of PPP loans, and what CFAP 3.0 might look like.

View Details

It's the second week of January  and we're back with another update-heavy episode! Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist with Blimling joins us for a market update, Tom Barcellos, past WUD Board Member  discusses his new role as the California Beef Council chair and Beef Council's priorities for 2021, Anja Raudabaugh, WUD CEO brings us the latest on the California Quota program, and we share Paul Sousa's Kitchen Table Webinar this week for an update on everything California Dairymen should know about their truck fleet, truck reporting and upcoming changes to CARB's Truck Rule. Finally, Darby and Melissa bring you some updates about what the latest Federal relief package means for dairy farmers.  To learn more about the CA Beef Council: https://www.calbeef.org/ To learn more about Federal Coronavirus Relief: https://hoards.com/article-29413-what-does-the-latest-relief-package-hold-for-dairy

View Details

Happy 2021 listeners! We're so glad to be back with an action-packed episode to kick off the new year. Today we cover a TON of housekeeping/updates that run the gambit of topics...We kick off with our contract economist, Tiffany LaMendola, serving up this weeks market update, we hear from WUD Board President Devin Gioletti with some news about the Associations direction for the year, Paul Sousa brings us an update on the CV Salts ongoing roll-out, and Kevin Piercy, attorney at Raimondo and Associates gives us the latest lo-down on COVID-19 regulations. We wrap with Rashell's update from LUC and a few reminders as you think about your first Payroll of 2021.  To reach out with questions about today's labor update, please email: kbp@raimondoassociates.com

View Details

This week's episode, our last of 2020 features a market update with Tiffany LaMendola, our contract economist of Blimling. Anja Raudabaugh joins us to share the exciting rollout of a recent project WUD partnered on with the California Cattle Council and California Cattlemen's, and we are joined by Anthony Raimondo and his associate, Kevin Piercy, of Raimondo and Associates to remind and update dairy employers about all things COVID-19 that should be occurring on and around the work site.  We wish all of our listeners, supporters and advertisers a wonderful Holiday Season and a Happy, Healthy 2021!

View Details

This week's abridged episode features a market update with WUD's consulting economist, Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling, a Truck Rule update with Paul Sousa and a re-run of WUD's Virtual Kitchen Table Meeting this week, which featured DMI/US Center for Dairy Innovation Staff briefing producers on the Net Zero Initiative. Please note: There was a brief hiccup in recording and the first 6-7 min of DMI's presentation was cut off. You will hear Paul's introduction and then the recording cuts to the beginning of Jim Wallace's talking points. The material missed was an introduction of the topics we do hear discussed in the remainder of the recording.

View Details

We hear a market update from Tiffany LaMendola, WUD’s contact economist with Blimling, an update on LUC from Rashell Echeveste and we re-run this weeks’ Virtual Kitchen Table Meeting, which featured Kevin Piercy, an an attorney with Raimondo & Associates, who provides an update on all things COVID-19 that employers should know.

View Details

Happy Thanksgiving from Western United Dairies

View Details

This week's abridged episode features our market update with Blimling Contract Economist, Tiffany LaMendola, an environmental update with Paul Sousa, WUD's Director of Environmental Affairs, and the much-anticipated reveal of the CMAB/VentureFuel Snackcelerator Winner with CMAB Director of Communications, Jennifer Giambroni, after last night's exciting final round!

View Details

This week's podcast update features a market report with our contract economist, Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling and a labor update with our esteemed labor attorney Anthony Raimondo of Raimondo & Associates. Full episodes will resume in January!

View Details

This week kicks off our "abridged" version of the podcast, which will provide basic updates through the holidays. This week we our economist, Tiffany LaMendola shares what's up and what's not in dairy markets, Rashell Segura gives us a rundown from LUC and Anja Raudabaugh brings us an update on the 2020 electionsResults mentioned are from Thursday, 11/5, when about 72% of the California ballots had been reported and thus are subject to change upon the airing of this episode.

View Details

We kick off week 30 with a little news about our podcast plans for the end of 2020, including a slightly abridged weekly offering through the end of December.  Next up is a market update from our amazing Blimling economist Tiffany LaMenodola, followed by some news from the environmental desk with Paul Sousa.  Our special guest this week is Carrie Mess, or Dairy Carrie, Wisconsin Dairy Farmer and Ag-vocate who shares with us a bit about her journey as a dairy farmer, social media influencer and all around awesome human and community member.  For a list of AMMP grant awards, visit the CDFA/OEFI page: https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/ammp/docs/2020-AMMP_ProjectsAwarded.pdf For a list of Digester grant awards, visit the CDFA/OEFI page: https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/ddrdp/docs/2020-DDRDP_ProjectsAwarded.pdf You can visit Dairy Carrie's website/blog here

View Details

We are pleased to kick off this week's episode by welcoming WUD's new contract economist, Tiffany LaMendola of Blimling! Tiffany brings us this week's market update, noting that for another consecutive week, cheese is running the show in dairy markets.   We follow Tiffany's market news with a political check-in with WUD's CEO Anja Raudabaugh, who covers early voting, the situation with Prop 15, and a provides a quick round-up of state races that will influence WUD's political strategy going forward. Darby rounds out the episode with WUD member Jared Fernandes, who shares about the process of building a digester on their family dairy and shares about the many benefits of the project to their farm.

View Details

This week we bid farewell to our economist and friend, Annie AcMoody, who will be leaving WUD after 10 years of service to CA dairy producers. We send Annie off with one last Market update plus messages and well wishes from producers and friends. To round out the week, Paul Sousa joins Melissa for a little update/reminder about fall water quality preparations, and Darby brings us some good news about the SBA's PPP loan/loan forgiveness process! For further information, please visit the links below: Small Business Administration PPP Loans: https://www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources CDQAP Documents: http://cdrf.org/home/checkoff-investments/cdqap/

View Details

This week we hear from Economist Annie AcMoody with our weekly market update, which is once again headed in a positive direction.  CEO Anja Raudabaugh, joins us for an update on WUD and the changes we're tackling this fall, Rashell Segura brings us a roundup from the world of LUC, and Darby and Melissa sit down for a lighthearted conversation with 4th generation dairyman and Cal Poly lecturer Rich Silacci, where we discuss everything from teaching during a global pandemic, to industry support for the next generation of dairy leaders, and maybe a few student-employee antics along the way!

View Details

Episode 26 brings us a positive market report from all-star economist Annie AcMoody complete with a round-up of this week's CDFA hearing. We get a drop-in from Tony Raimondo with a COVID-19 labor update, and we round out the episode with our friend and member, Tessa Hall, who candidly shares about the legal battle her family dairy has been in with the city of Corcoran for the past 5 years. For resources mentioned in the episode, please use and share the links below:  Cal-OSHA Consultation Services:  https://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/consultation.html Farmer Mental Health Resources: http://cdrf.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Crisis_Info_CA_by_county.pdf

View Details

Episode 25 is full of late-summer updates for producers to absorb while they put in tractor hours harvesting, fertilizing and planting this weekend. Annie brings us a robust market update, complete with some quota/CDFA hearing news, we chat with Cody Nicholson-Stratton, WUD board member and California Cattle Council (CCC) Vice-Chair, to update listeners on what CCC has been up to this summer, and we re-run Paul Sousa's weekly "WUD Kitchen Table Webinar" which discusses the important information about the CV Salts process. We round out the episode with a short Q&A with Annie on the USDA's CFAP 2.0 funding round.  To access Dave Daley's testimonial, which was mentioned in this week's podcast, please visit our partners at the California Cattlemen's Association: https://calcattlemen.org/2020/09/23/legacy/ To submit testimony to CDFA for next week's quota hearing, you may send to the following:  Written Statement by US Mail: CDFA 1220 N St; Suite 315 Sacramento, CA 95814 Written Statement by Email: cdfa.legaloffice@cdfa.ca.gov You may also testify under oath via teleconference  during the hearing.

View Details

This week we start, as is tradition, with a market update from the amazing Annie AcMoody, who also brings us a last minuet, very exciting announcement from USDA regarding the renewal of the CFAP program. Annie's good news is followed by a quick roundup from this week's board meeting with WUD Board President Devin Gioletti, special guest Dr. Michael Payne from UC Davis/CDQAP joins us with some some valuable information about employee/livestock safety in light of the smokey skies, and information and  resources on how to prepare for wildfire and PSPS season on California dairies. We round out the episode with an update from Rashell Segura at LUC and a few tips from the Field Staff regarding animal activist activities.  Links to Dr. Payne's information and the new CFAP details are below: CFAP Details: https://www.farmers.gov/cfap/dairy

Wildfire/Emergency Preparedness Resources:  CDQAP Wildfire Advisory Wildfire Preparedness Tips from a Firefighter, Veterinarian, and Ranch Owner Preventing and Controlling Hay Fires on Dairies Dairies and Emergency Power

View Details

An episode jam-packed with information for producers. Today we're joined by co-host extraordinaire, Annie AcMoody. In addition to helping carry the torch this week, Annie brings us an update from Chrurchill Downs and the dairy markets, Paul Sousa provides info on lagoon issues in Merced County, Anja gives us the 4-1-1 on Prop 15 and WUD's involvement in the issue, and Dairyman/Volunteer Firefighter Rick Nicholson brings us some tips and tricks for dairies to prepare for unexpected emergencies.  Extra Resources to check out:  https://noonprop15.org/   https://www.wifss.ucdavis.edu/wildfire-preparedness-tips-firefighter-veterinarian/

View Details

WUD economist Annie AcMoody brings us this weeks' Market Update, Jason Bryant, director of Legislative Affairs, fills us in on the end of the 2020 legislative session, Rashell Segura gives us the run-down on what's up with LUC. We round out this week's episode with WUD member John Bucher of Healdsburg, CA who has been in the red zone of California's wildfire situation for the past 4 fire seasons.

View Details

We kick of Episode 21 with a PRB update and market report from Annie AcMoody, Paul Sousa shares a special alert for producers who are dealing with repercussions of last weeks' heat wave, and this week we switch up our content a bit with special guests Christine Forster and Chris DiGiovanni of PG&E for  a long-form discussion on the many programs PG&E offers to their agriculture customers, specifically dairy producers. We cover safety,  Bio-Methane partnerships, how dairies can prepare for unexpected power losses, and what resources are available to producers from their power provider. For more information on what you heard today, you can check out the below resources:  Biomethane:  www.pge.com/biomethane& biomethane@pge.com  Rates & TOU (time of use) Transitions www.pge.com/tou For Energy Efficiency & Ways to Save www.pge.com select Save Energy & Money Agricultural Customer Service Center 877-311-3276 Solar Customer Service Center 877-743-4112 Christine.Forster@pge.com

View Details

This week's episode features our industry partner and friend Denise Mullinax with an update from CDRF and CDQAP, Annie joins us for the latest on the markets and California's quota system, and Melissa and Darby talk farmer mental health amid one of the most stressful weeks California Dairymen have faced in 2020 (and that's saying something!).

View Details

We have a full episode to round out this HOT week in California! Annie checks in with a market update and some PPD news, Anja brings us some good news out of Sacramento this week with the advance of AB 890, the defeat of AB 2959, and gives us the latest update on the chess game that is California Quota, we hear from member and delegate Zach Cahill of Cahill Dairy in Ferndale, and we round out the episode with some very special guests, John Talbot and Jennifer Giambroni of the CMAB, to roll out the exciting new opportunity CMAB is hosting (visit https://www.venturefuel.net/snackcelerator for more information!), plus hear about the work their organization has put in to keep milk on the shelves in this tumultuous year that has been 2020.

View Details

A little bit of a light week for a change! Annie AcMoody brings us up to date on all the pieces of the Quota puzzle, plus delivers a bit more of a relaxed market update this week. Paul Sousa joins Melissa for a reminder on fall preparation best management practices, and Rashell has an update from LUC. We wrap this week with a common labor question we’ve been getting.

View Details

We're pleased to welcome Dr. Frank Mitloehner, the GHG Guru, to the show. Paul and Melissa chat with Dr. Mitloehner about his past, current and future work and how dairymen can engage with him on the important climate research that he and the UC Davis CLEAR Center are working on.  Links to Dr. Mitloehner's work are below.  Before we chat with Dr. Mitloehner, we get an update from Annie on all of the moving parts in the Quota discussion, a market update, and a chat with our Director of Legislative Affairs, Jason Bryant about AB 2959 and all things Sacramento. Noted links for the show are listed below: Links mentioned by Dr. Mitloehner: https://clear.ucdavis.edu/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOPrF8oyDYw&t=15s https://twitter.com/GHGGuru Link to Annie's PPD Discussion: https://youtu.be/E1EBgBr_lCM

View Details

Our economist, Annie AcMoody, offers a webinar-based briefing on the June PPD & answers member questions as to how the California FMMO works. The presentation was accompanied by a power point via webinar; if listeners need access to the power point or have questions we welcome inquiries to annie@wudairies.com.

View Details

As you've come to expect, Melissa and Darby cover the weather for the North Coast and Central valley in depth this week.  We follow that up with Annie's weekly market update, a little sunnier than the Ferndale coast this week! Anja brings us an update on Burger King's ill-fated foray into the GHG discussion, we introduce listeners to Dayna Ghiridelli, California Milk Advisory Board's new director of producer relations (dghirardelli@cmab.net), Board Members Gerrit DeRaadt joins us, and we wrap this week with some reminders about our recent member outreach, and how you can access those recorded events.

View Details

We bring you this recording of WUD’s July 20th webinar with Anthony Raimondo of Raimondo & Associates. Tony gives a brief update of information for employers pertaining to COVID-19, then spends an hour answering members questions related to employee management during the current pandemic.

View Details

Welcome to our 15th episode! This week Annie joins us for another positive market update,  thanks to the record breaking cheese markets.  The focus of our episode is a Q&A with our favorite labor attorney, Anthony Raimondo of Raimondo & Associates. Tony brings us a plethora of information on how dairy employers should be handling all things COVID-19 on their facilities. Tony mentions several resources in the episode and they can be found at the below links.  Finally, we wrap up today's episode with a LUC update from the wonderful Rashell and a quick reminder about our upcoming online events.  As always, visit our website for more information: www.westernuniteddairies.com. 

https://files.covid19.ca.gov/pdf/checklist-agriculture.pdf

https://www.labor.ca.gov/coronavirus2019/#chart

https://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/coronavirus/Health-Care-General-Industry.html

View Details

This week's action packed episode covers a variety of topics, starting with another powerhouse week on the dairy market fronts. Annie brings us an upbeat market report as well as an update from Stan Erwine and Paul Ziemnisky of DMI about how checkoff dollars are being put to work, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. We follow the DMI discussion with a Q&A about recent OSHA visits on Merced County Dairies with WUD CEO Anja Raudabaugh, and we close this week's episode visiting with Devin Gioletti, WUD Board President about a recent mis-information campaign against Western United Dairies; please check out this week's update (https://files.constantcontact.com/7233ce19301/b2d43062-29ea-4666-a4a4-4156cb81d614.pdf) for further information.

View Details

Happy 4th of July listeners! Today we’re joined by special guest co-host Annie AcMoody as we bring you several updates for the long weekend! Annie shares continued good market news, with a notice about what your June Check may look like, Anja updates listeners on the saga that is the California Quota system, Rashell joins us with a reminder about LUC services, and Paul Sousa shares everything we need to know about the CARB Truck Rules. We wish all of our members and listeners a happy, safe and fun 4th of July!

View Details

This week we are graced by another positive market update from Annie AcMoody, WUD economist.  Dr. Deanne Meyer of UC Davis brings us an update on all things nutrient management related and a reminder about CDQAP short courses and Darby checks in with WUD's Board President, Devin Gioletti.  Finally, we wrap the episode with yet another COVID-19 Q&A for employers.  For resources and further information, visit our website: www.westernuniteddairies.com.

View Details

This is the week of updates! Annie AcMoody brings us another upbeat look at the dairy markets, Jason Bryant shares whats been brewing in Sacramento, Paul reminds us of some important deadlines in the Central Valley, and Darby has a chance to sit down with Darlene Idsinga, WUD Board member to chat about her experience as a dairy farmer. Darby and Melissa wrap things up this week with a PPP Q&A and an update on our LUC program.  Email us questions, comments and content requests at wud.pod@gmail.com.

View Details

Annie AcMoody, WUD Economist is back for another week of good market news, plus a brief re-cap of the Ch. 3.5 hearing held at CDFA this week. Melissa chats with Justin Oldfield, Executive Director at the California Cattle Council about the newly formed entity and how dairymen can be proactive in how their dollars are spent. To wrap things up, Darby reminds us how to be proactive with our employees as the state opens up and we see an up-tick in COVID-19 cases.  For more information on anything you heard here visit westernuniteddairies.com. More info about the California Cattle Council can be found at calcattlecouncil.org. As always, send questions, comments and content requests to wud.pod@gmail.com.

View Details

We kick off Episode 9 with an introduction to WUD Board member Trevor Nutcher of Gustine. WUD economist Annie AcMoody brings us a very positive market update, Paul Sousa and Darby chat about new enforcement parameters in Water Board Region 5,  we chat with Cody Nicholson-Stratton, WUD Board member and Humboldt County Dairyman about what it's like to be part of a non-traditional dairy family, and finally, Darby and I tackle a member question on a hot industry topic. Feedback, content requests and questions can be submitted to wud.pod@gmail.com.

View Details

An update on all of your burning CFAP questions with Annie AcMoody, a long-form discussion with dairy producer Tyler Ribeiro and CMAB's Director of Communications, Jennifer Giambroni, to chat about Ag-vocating on Social Media, a reminder on how to engage with our LUC program, and a fun round of June Dairy Month Trivia to round out this fun and informational episode of Seen & Herd!

View Details

An episode chock-full of updates and info to see you through the three-day weekend! Annie AcMoody brings us some good milk pricing news, Paul Sousa briefs us on the CV Salts program, Jason Bryant shares the low-down on WUD’s Sacramento Strategy, we hear from Mark Krebsbach of Western Milling about the commodity markets and Darby and Melissa answer all of your burning CFAP questions. Happy listening and Happy Memorial Day!

View Details

Annie AcMoody brings us a much-anticipated update on USDA’s CFAP program, including details on payments, signup dates, how to engage with FSA, and what to expect next week.

View Details

We get an upbeat market update from Annie, some new information about CDFA’s recently announced hearing, a peek into supply chain issues and how they’re being resolved with two intriguing sit downs; first with Bill Schiek of the Dairy Institute as well as Bob Carroll of CMAB. Rashell brings information from the labor pool , and we wrap with an update for members about the USDA’s recent webinar.

View Details

A week chock full of updates! Darby checks in with WUD Treasurer Travis Visser, Annie fills is in on the markets and this weeks PRB meeting, Anja shares how our Sacramento policy work has been shaping up, and Melissa and Darby answer member questions. Plus an unexpected announcement on Friday afternoon.

View Details

This week kicks off with a quick and more positive market update from Annie AcMoody, a visit with WUD Board’s Secretary Lucas Deniz, and a super informative interview with Merced County Sheriff, Vern Warnke. For listeners who may be interested in accessing the extra content we mentioned please check out our Facebook page at facebook.com/wudairies as well as healthy eating.org/virtual-field-trip

View Details

Special guest co-host Annie AcMoody and joins Melissa as we navigate through this week’s Market Update, some neutral news on the producer price support front, and have a chance to meet our WUD Second Vice President, Dave Koolhaas. The feature of this week’s episode is our very own Paul Sousa joined by John Cardoza from Sustainable Conservation giving us a little good news on the environmental front to celebrate Earth Week. Thanks for listening, don't forget to send questions, comments and content requests to wud.pod@gmail.com

View Details

Annie and Melissa have a brief chat about the good, the bad, and the questions we still have when it comes to USDA’s producer support program, which was announced this past Friday. More updates will come through the week. For further questions or feedback, send us an email: wud.pod@gmail.com or info@wudairies.com

View Details

This week's episode introduces us to WUD Board's First Vice President, Louie Borba and brings us briefings from Economist Annie AcMoody and Director of Environmental Affairs Paul Sousa. WUD CEO Anja Radabaugh brings us important updates on our legislative activities, efforts to move and donate dairy products, and an important reminder about navigating an activist attack. We round out the episode with a serious discussion about the mental well being of producers and what signs to look for in family members or neighbors that are likely experiencing extra stress in today's dairy environment.

If you or a dairy producer you know is experiencing significant distress, and are unsure what to do, please visit the following website, http://cdrf.org/home/checkoff-investments/cdqap/dairy-mental-health-webinar/ provided by the California Dairy Quality Assurance Program; of specific interest is the webinar located at the top of the page prepared by Dr. Robert Fetsch, PhD of Colorado State University Cooperative Extension.

In extreme cases where you or someone you know may be considering suicide, please immediately call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-784-2433.

For a complete list of resources, including some county based services, click here.

View Details

WUD Economist, Annie AcMoody fills us in on everything dairy producers should know in regards to Federal Price Support Program efforts.

View Details

We hope you enjoy our inaugural episode of “Seen & Herd: Industry updates for the Modern Dairy Family”. Our first episode introduces you to our staff, with updates on current dairy industry issues, a welcome from our President and how to get your hands on all the info you need to navigate our globe’s “new normal” if you’re a diary producer. Please send content requests to wud.pod@gmail.com for information on sponsorships please email info@wudairies.com.