Smart Calf Rearing Conference

Producer Day – September 27th at the University Farm

Join us for an immersive, hands-on day dedicated to the latest advancements in calf rearing. Producer Day will feature expert insights on colostrum and milk nutrition, practical strategies for pair and group housing, and key factors for successful autofeeder management—including facilities, personnel, health protocols, and feeding plans. The day will conclude with a tour of the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s new calf barn and calf rail, offering a firsthand look at innovative housing and feeding systems. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, network, and see cutting-edge calf-rearing practices in action!

Dr. Michael Steele

University of Guelph

Dr. Jennifer Van Os

University of Wisonsin-Madison

Dr. Terri Ollivett

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Dr. João Costa

University of Vermont

Title: Keys to success with the autofeeder system: Facilites Personnel Health Protocols and Feeding plans

Dr. Lautaro Rostoll Cangiano

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Title: Next-Level Calf Rearing: Barn Tour & Automated Feeding Insights

Jan Ziemerink

Foerster-Technik NA

Title: Next-Level Calf Rearing: Barn Tour & Automated Feeding Insights

Producer Panel

Laura Raatz

Wagner Farms

Laura Raatz is a dynamic and versatile leader, holding multiple pivotal roles across various industries. She is a part owner of Wagner Farms, Wagner Leadership Training, and Dreams Happen Vacation Rental. In addition to these ventures, Laura is a renowned motivational writer and speaker, and she serves on the board of directors for the Professional Dairy Producers.

Sam Peetz

Rosy-Lane Holsteins, LLC

Sam Peetz is a partner at Rosy-Lane Holsteins, LLC. He is a graduate of UW-Platteville with a degree in Dairy Science who joined Rosy-Lane in 2020. Rosy-Lane cares for 2,550 Holstein cattle, including 1,750 milking cows across two farm sites in Watertown and Paoli, WI.