This article looks at one of the most practical ways to strengthen culture and boost engagement: holding meaningful conversations between supervisors and employees.

Labor shortages and high turnover remain among the top concerns keeping dairy owners and operators up at night. In 2026, the challenge is not only finding workers but also keeping them engaged and committed to one of the most vital roles on the farm.

If there’s a phrase that rings true in the ears of any business owner or manager, it’s that “a business is only as good as its people.” And in a world where automation is rapidly transforming many industries, the cattle business remains one of the few that still relies heavily on people.

Your dairy’s culture can be the engine that drives success — or leads to its failure. So what is “culture”? Culture is a shared set of values, goals, attitudes and practices that characterize a business. A strong and healthy team culture can create a sense of unity and shared purpose among employees. It ensures that your employees feel valued and motivated, and it also helps them feel connected to the greater good.

The H-2A temporary agricultural workers program isn’t a backup plan anymore – it’s the only legal, reliable and proven labor solution for the modern farmer or rancher. The question is no longer if you’ll use it, but when.

Dairy producers and industry professionals traveling to the Western Dairy Management Conference were greeted with a familiar sight – a snowy arrival into Reno, Nevada. Despite the weather’s early April Fools' joke, the networking opportunities and variety of presentation topics provided something for each of the more than 1,100 registered attendees to enjoy.

In any industry, the value of exceptional employees cannot be underestimated. These kinds of employees will bring positive change, exemplify integrity and exceed expectations in their responsibilities. Many dairy workers in our industry are great examples. To honor and show our appreciation to these outstanding individuals, we need to establish awards as part of our organizations and the industry.

The topic of animal welfare is broad, complex and multifaceted, encompassing scientific, ethical, economic, cultural, social, religious and political dimensions. Michelle Calvo-Lorenzo, Ph.D., with Elanco Animal Health, addressed this ever-evolving topic at the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference held in February in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.

Recall how you felt or how you would feel if you hired an employee who left after a day, three days or a week. Unfortunately, this is common today. In fact, research shows that approximately half of all new employees seriously consider quitting in the first week.