Wisconsin Holstein Featured Young Farmer - Andrew Rickert

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.