Enjoying a change of seasons on a Panhandle dairy road trip

Fall has always been one of my favorite times of year in the Texas Panhandle. My job as executive director of the Texas Association of Dairymen recently took me through the region for several days, giving me an opportunity to enjoy the changing seasons while working on a variety of issues important to our state’s dairy industry.

I thought I’d share a few highlights of the trip to give our members a glimpse of what TAD does on their behalf when we’re not at the Texas Capitol. As it turned out, the weather during my travels was nearly as varied as the work on my schedule.

My first stop was a visit with the next generation of dairy industry leaders participating in Dairy MAX’s MILK (Maximizing Impact, Leadership and Knowledge) Emerging Leaders Program. Launched in 2025, the program helps young dairy farmers develop leadership skills, build industry relationships and prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead. It’s encouraging to see these young professionals investing in their futures and, in turn, the future of our industry.

The next day, I joined representatives of Texas A&M’s Veterinary Education, Research & Outreach (VERO) program and pre-vet students to visit two dairies and help develop Secure Milk Supply plans. This ongoing effort helps producers identify potential vulnerabilities in their operations and strengthen safeguards against infectious diseases such as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Protecting herd health is a priority for every dairy farmer, and these plans are another important tool in preparing for potential disease threats.

Meanwhile, the Panhandle weather was beginning to change. After a warm start to the week, rain moved into the region, bringing welcome relief from the dry conditions that have affected much of Texas.

By Friday morning, as I prepared for a day of visits with area legislators, temperatures had dropped into the 50s. Stepping outside my hotel into the cool, cloudy morning, I couldn’t help but think that fall had finally arrived.

I always appreciate opportunities to visit with lawmakers in their home districts, away from the hustle and bustle of the Capitol. These conversations allow us to share what’s happening in the dairy industry, discuss issues affecting producers and strengthen relationships that are important when the Legislature returns to work.

As I reflected on the week’s travels and the welcome change in weather, I was reminded of something I’ve always admired about farmers: their optimism.

Whether it’s the weather, milk prices, the next crop or the coming year, farmers have an enduring belief that better days lie ahead. They know that circumstances can change quickly, and they continually adapt, overcome challenges and look for new opportunities.

That same outlook has helped Texas dairy producers build an industry that continues to grow and evolve. From embracing new technologies to improving herd health and management practices, our producers understand that moving forward means being willing to change.

My travels through the Panhandle were a good reminder that the work we do at TAD is much the same. Whether we’re helping develop future leaders, working with producers to protect their herds or advocating for the industry with elected officials, our goal remains the same: helping Texas dairy farmers succeed today and prepare for tomorrow.

And with fall finally making an appearance, I hope everyone has a chance to get outside, enjoy the cooler weather and perhaps treat themselves to a bowl of ice cream.

After all, if there’s one thing we know about Texas weather and the Texas dairy industry, it’s that neither stands still for long.