Dairy Industry Future Depends on Collaboration

Sam Koester, a DFA farmer-owner from Wadesville, Ind., knows that while agriculture may start on the farm, the industry’s future depends on collaboration far beyond it.

Koester recently traveled to the Netherlands and Belgium as part of the EU-U.S. Fellowship for Young Leaders in Agriculture, a program connecting young agriculture leaders from both sides of the Atlantic. During this experience, Sam explored agricultural policy, farming practices, and challenges facing the next generation of producers.

Sam was especially struck by the passion and resilience of Dutch dairy farmers. Despite recent policy changes that have made farming more challenging in Holland, he saw producers who remain deeply committed. The experience reinforced just how connected the global ag community really is, regardless of geography or politics.

“One of my biggest takeaways was realizing that farmers across the world are dealing with many of the same issues,” Koester says. “No matter where we’re from, we all care deeply about our farms, our families, and keeping agriculture strong for the next generation.”

Koester believes that programs such as this fellowship are critical for preparing the next generation of agriculture leaders. As the number of farms continues to decline, he says future producers will face increasing responsibility to not only feed a growing population, but also to advocate for the industry.

“As young farmers, it’s our responsibility to help create the future we want,” Koester says. “Programs like this provide growth in knowledge and networking to be a more effective leader in agriculture.”

Leadership development opportunities such as these are becoming increasingly important as the agriculture industry continues to face challenges and industry leadership transitions to a younger generation.

“This program — and others like it — prepare young farmers like me to lead in an industry where strong leadership is needed both on and off the farm,” says Sam. “I’m grateful to DFA and organizations like National Milk Producers Federation for creating opportunities like this.”