Four herds with 12-month pregnancy rates of 36% and greater were recently recognized with the CentralStar Cooperative ReproStar Award. Evergreen Dairy Resort, LLC, Antigo, Wis.; Olson Dairy Farms, Inc., Birnamwood, Wis.; Reed Dairy Farm, Owosso, Mich.; and Maier Farms, LLC, Waunakee, Wis., are the recent recipients.
This award recognizes excellence in reproduction, each exemplifying key practices that drive success. The cow herds at Evergreen Dairy Resort, Olson Dairy Farms, and Reed Dairy Farm all maintain a strong population of mature cows (three or more lactations), efficient breeding practices, and sustainable approaches to herd-management strategies that enhance long-term productivity. Recognized for their heifer-management practices, Maier Farms set a high standard with a non-completion rate of just 7%, ensuring youngstock reach their potential as valuable members of the milking herd.
“Monitoring pregnancy rate is important because it provides a clear picture of a herd’s reproductive efficiency and overall health,” said CentralStar Director of Consulting and Profit Strategies Cole Mark. “By working alongside their local CentralStar team, these herds have incorporated tools that complement their broader efforts, contributing to low days in milk and days open, reducing facility and staffing stress caused by calving slugs, ensuring cow longevity, and supporting their commitment to animal care and sustainability.”
Initiated in 2019, the ReproStar Award celebrates dairy producers who achieve exceptional reproductive efficiency. Winners are selected based on a comprehensive evaluation of herd data, considering multiple factors that influence pregnancy rates. While genetics and reproduction provide the foundation for success, these herds demonstrate that achieving top-tier results requires a complete approach to herd management. Learn more about their achievements and strategies on page 23 of CentralStar’s Big Book: https://mycentralstar.com/centralstar-big-book-2025/.
CentralStar’s mission of enhancing producer profitability through integrated solutions for mutual success is fulfilled by incorporating an array of products and services critical to dairy-and-beef-farm prosperity. CentralStar’s product and service offerings include Accelerated Genetics, GenerVations, and Select Sires genetics; extensive artificial-insemination (A.I.) technician service; genetic, reproduction, and dairy-records consultation; DHI services; diagnostic testing; herd-management products; research and development; and more. CentralStar’s administration and warehouse facilities are located in Lansing, Mich., and Waupun, Wis., with laboratories in Grand Ledge, Mich., and Kaukauna, Wis. The cooperative serves dairy and beef producers throughout Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana, with additional DHI territory in various surrounding states. For more information, visit CentralStar Cooperative Inc. at www.mycentralstar.com.