By Nora Owens, NODPA Field Days Coordinator
Save the Date! Join us on September 25 & 26, 2025, for the 25th Annual NODPA Field Days at the Pompey Rod and Gun Club, 2035 Swift Road, Pompey, NY 13138. This milestone event will focus on “Improving Your Bottom Line in Organic Dairy: Exploring Market Trends, Emerging Technology, Better Nutrition, and Cattle Breeding for Success.”
Held in scenic central New York, this year’s Field Days will feature engaging farm tours, at Tre G Farms and Pastureland Dairy, in the neighboring village of Manlius, along with a robust educational program designed to help organic dairy farmers thrive in a changing market. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate at the 25th Annual NODPA Field Days. Here’s a sample of the program, so far, with full details and registration coming to the NODPA website, www.nodpa.com, and featured in the July NODPA News.
The “Emerging Technologies” session will explore cutting-edge technologies transforming the field, including virtual fencing, robotics, and advanced pasture and herd management software. Farmers already implementing these tools—such as Kirk Arnold, Kyle Smith, and Eric Sheffer—will share their real-world experiences, challenges, and insights. In addition, representatives from leading companies like Halter Fencing, Agro-Tech Pro Software, and Lely Robotics are invited to present, offering a comprehensive look at how innovation is reshaping organic dairy operations.
The “Trends in Organic Dairy” session will feature industry experts Nathan Weaver and Sarah Flack, alongside a diverse panel of farmers providing insights from various perspectives on today’s evolving organic dairy landscape. Topics will include grass-fed practices, A2A2 genetics, and a range of certification options, all aimed at enhancing the profitability and sustainability of your farm. This session will give attendees a well-rounded view of how emerging trends can drive success in the organic dairy industry.
“Lessons from Successful Grass-Fed Dairy Farms” will be led by Sarah Flack, who will guide participants through the critical factors to consider when evaluating whether a grass-fed system is right for your farm. This session will help you assess how well a grass-fed system aligns with your land base, infrastructure, forage quality, cost of production, herd genetics, finances, and family goals. Additionally, we'll explore the key strategies for a successful conversion to grass-fed dairy, including insights from the multi-year Northeast Grass-Fed Dairy Project. Attendees will leave with a comprehensive understanding of both the opportunities and challenges associated with adopting this management style.
The “Better Nutrition = Better Milk Production, Cow Health, and Profitability” session will focus on how improving nutrition can enhance milk production, cow health, and overall profitability, regardless of the management system you use. Whether you're operating an organic or grass-fed dairy, optimizing nutrition is key to maximizing your herd’s potential. This session will explore practical strategies for feeding your cows to achieve better performance, healthier animals, and higher profits.
Information for sponsors and supporters will be going out by mid-May. If you’d like information beforehand, or if you have any questions, please contact Nora Owens, NODPA Field Days Coordinator, at 413-772-0444 or at noraowens@comcast.net. For now, mark your calendar and plan to join us for the 25th Annual NODPA Field Days on Thursday and Friday, September 25th and 26th. Remember, it’s never too early to look for lodging if you are staying overnight. You will receive a better rate and have more options, too.
Posted: to Field Days on Sat, May 17, 2025
Updated: Sun, May 18, 2025
