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Meet Andrew Rickert, a passionate dairy farmer from
Wisconsin. Andrew is a dedicated to
raising quality Holsteins with his family. Currently, Andrew and his family milk 1050 cows and run 1800 acres of
corn, soybeans, alfalfa and wheat. The
family farm was established by Andrew's great grandfather and was eventually passed on to Andrew's father, Jim,
and uncle, Greg. In 2000, Rickert Bros,
LLC was established and milking parlor was built. In 2012, Greg's son-in-law and Andrew began receiving
shares from the LLC. The pair hope to
buy out the operation within 20 years and to continue the family tradition of
dairy farming. This successful and
progressive farm takes a full crew, and all family members help out. 
Andrew's main focus on the dairy farm is feeding the
cows. He works closely with the
nutritionist to formulate rations that result in maximum milk and cow
health. On a typical day, Andrew spends
a majority of his time mixing the 12 batches of TMR needed to feed the
herd. He also helps with field work when
needed. Andrew enjoys working with
family and having the opportunity to do a variety of chores.
WHA's very own Joseta Halbur asked Mr. Andrew Rickert a few
questions. Here is what he had to say.
What makes your farm unique?
I think what makes our farm unique is our size as a registered herd. It gives
us the flexibility to utilize a number of recipient animals for our embryo
transfer work. Also the ability to grow
our own feed.
What makes you passionate about the dairy industry?
There are tons of workshops and conferences where others in
the industry can share their stuggles and triumphs. It is a great way to network and help your
peers. In my opinion, there are two
different types of businesses; 50-300 cow herds and commercial herds. There is always something geared toward the
smaller herds and larger herds that key in on efficiency.
What makes you excited about owning and raising registered cattle?
Owning registered cattle allows us to improve by breeding
for production and type.
What is the biggest challenge the dairy industry currently
faces?
I believe the biggest challenge the dairy industry faces is
the difficulty young farmers have trying to start a business. The more young farmers that are able to start
farming, the more members WHA could potentially have.
Who or what in the dairy industry
inspires you?
As a junior member of WHA, I always looked up to Chad Ryan
and Brian Kelroy. Seeing their
determination to be the best really inspired me. Later in my junior years, I looked up to Tom
Cull and Joel Kietzmen. Their talents
are unprecedented. A generation from
now, they will be view to the same caliber as the Pabst were to us and I am fortunate
to have been associated with these men. I hope my children will have the same experience as I did.
