Meagen Koser Calf Consultant Bloomer, Wisconsin Golden Calf Company

Please describe your agricultural background.
I grew up on my family's dairy farm, Koser Udder Farms, near Almena, Wisconsin. With about 80 cows, the farm has been in our family for three generations. As an active 4-H and FFA member, I showed dairy cattle, beef cattle, horses, chickens and sheep at the Barron County Fair and now support my little brother, Alec, as he shows his dairy cattle at the fair.

What education are you bringing with you to this position?
I am a graduate of the University of Wisconsin – River Falls with a major in agricultural studies and minors in dairy science and animal science.

What previous positions have you held?
For many years I worked on my family's dairy and at Castle Farms in Almena, performing many different farm duties such as taking care of calves, milking, feeding cows and moving cattle. After graduating from UW-River Falls, I spent two years as a horseback riding trail guide in the badlands of Medora, North Dakota.

Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
My parents, James and Cathy Koser, have made the biggest impact on my career. Growing up on the farm and learning the responsibilities that it takes to succeed have shaped my love and respect for the dairy industry. I would not be where I am today without their support and valuable knowledge that they have given to me throughout the years.

How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
I will serve as a calf care consultant educating farmers on proper ways to feed and handle their calves and supply them with the proper tools that they need to raise a healthy animal. With proper management of neonatal calves, come healthier and more productive cows.

Why did you choose this company?
I chose the Golden Calf Company because it is growing at a fast pace and I feel that I will be able to grow with the company and establish relationships with new customers in different regions. Neonatal calf care is very important in the development of a healthy animal and I want to make my contribution to the dairy industry by helping farmers get their calves off to a better start, positioning them for a more successful future.

What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
My goals are to provide as much knowledge and solutions to dairy farmers as I can to help them raise a healthier calf and therefore produce better dairy cows. I would also like to establish relationships with farmers from all over the U.S. and Canada, and learn about how they operate and contribute to the dairy industry.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I see myself continuing to promote calf care and colostrum management techniques. I look forward to the results of the current research into colostrum and advances in calf care technology and sharing it with farmers. PD