“Networking is one of the reasons the Dairy Summit is always so impactful and gets us energized at the start of every year. It’s nice to catch up with friends and fellow dairy producers you haven’t seen in a while, all while exchanging ideas on real-time issues that affect all of us,” said Tony Brubaker, the 2023 Pennsylvania Dairy Summit chair and a dairy farmer from Lancaster County. “With that idea in mind, we have some interactive discussion groups and breakout sessions planned this year, so we can continue to have those open conversations with one another.”
Along with five dynamic keynote sessions and 12 in-depth breakout sessions, there are several discussion groups happening throughout the event. Led by moderators and industry representatives, attendees can share their personal experiences, ask tough questions, exchange ideas, and have candid conversations about the issues that matter. The following discussion groups are included in the Summit program:
- What’s Next With Federal Dairy Pricing Policy – With a new Farm Bill and federal milk marketing order reform on the horizon, this discussion will focus on what’s being proposed and how the changes could affect dairy operations.
- What Workforce Engagement Means for My Dairy – Given the current labor situation, having a workforce development plan in place is crucial. Join a discussion on how to find, hire, develop and keep a highly engaged and motivated dairy team.
- What’s Checkoff Done for Me Lately— This discussion will focus on what happens to the 15 cents from every 100 pounds of milk dairy farmers produce that goes to support dairy promotion efforts locally and nationwide.
To discuss herd management, farm finances, diversification and more, several dairy producers from Pennsylvania and New York will also lead panel discussions during breakout sessions:
