Editor's note: The CEO Corner contains editors' compilations of business news from top publications, which they have tailored for the dairy industry. While living by the adage “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” may not break your business, failing to improve it could cause heartbreak down the road.

The boards of directors for Select Sires Inc. and Accelerated Genetics have reached a unanimous decision to unify the two cooperatives. Under the planned agreement, Select Sires will acquire the assets of Accelerated Genetics, joining forces of employees and independent sales representatives in each of their geographical member organizations.

April U.S. dairy product export volumes topped year-ago levels for the 11th straight month, with gains in most product categories and to most major destinations, according to Alan Levitt, vice president of communications and market analysis at the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC).

Two leading dairy groups said yesterday they will work with the Trump administration to modernize the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to make sure it safeguards open trade with Mexico and confronts increasingly protectionist dairy policies by Canada.

When it comes to managing profitability, it’s natural for dairy producers to focus on milk prices. But ignoring the expense side of the equation leaves you exposed to potential margin erosion. And when your margins are squeezed, your liquidity suffers, putting your cash flow at risk.

I’ve often wondered over the years if other professions were encouraged to advocate for themselves in the way farmers and ag industry representatives are. I’ve seen my fair share of teacher appreciation posts on social media, and I know there are plenty of blogs from nurses and other health care professionals.

U.S. dairies owners overwhelmingly prefer to be called “farmers” as opposed to “producers.” That’s according to recent online and phone surveys conducted by Progressive Dairyman. Readers said they prefer the term farmer as a description of their work four to one.

Milk has long been touted for its many nutritional benefits. This is why the farmer-founded National Dairy Council and many leading health organizations endorse its role in the diet.

A good hoof maintenance schedule is one of the most important contributors to a successful dairy operation. Foot health has a direct impact on milk production, and ignoring lameness in a herd can be far more costly than the price of a hoof health program.

How did you get started in photography? Kasper: Growing up, I always loved taking pictures of our animals on the farm. Kittens, ducks, piglets, calves and cows … everything got their picture taken. I entered the photography project for 4-H more times than I can count and loved showcasing my work.