E235 Mystic Valley Dairy: The Secret Behind Their Jaw-Dropping 125-Pound ECM Average

Discover how Wisconsin’s Mystic Valley Dairy achieves a jaw-dropping 125-pound energy-corrected milk (ECM) average through optimized cow comfort, strategic breeding, and 100 precision practices. In this deep-dive episode, we unpack the secrets behind their industry-leading metrics—4.5% fat, 3.4% protein, and 115 cows surpassing 150,000 pounds of lifetime production.Owner Mitch Breunig reveals why there’s no “magic bullet” in dairy success—just relentless attention to fundamentals. From their 70-30 corn silage and alfalfa forage mix to a 7-step fresh cow protocol that drives 152-pound peak milk yields, learn how this operation balances cutting-edge science with time-tested husbandry.Key Highlights:Cow comfort innovations: How stall sizing for older cows added productive years to their herd.Genetic mastery: Breeding for balanced traits (not extremes) to maximize combined fat and protein.Labor philosophy: Building a team with 20% turnover in an industry plagued by staffing challenges.Market-smart strategies: Selling 140 high-value cows annually to offset tight milk margins.The 100 Little Things: Why Mitch believes excellence comes from perfecting daily routines, not chasing trends.Featured in This Episode:Exclusive insights from Mitch Breunig on balancing family legacy with innovation.The role of Select Sires’ Kevin Jorgensen in shaping Mystic Valley’s genetic program.Future goals: Pushing for 9 pounds of combined fat/protein daily and 130 lb ECM.Links & Resources:Visit https://www.thebullvine.com/breeder-profiles/mystic-valley-dairy-the-secret-behind-their-jaw-dropping-125-pound-ecm-average/ for full show notes and articles.Follow The Bullvine on Twitter/X and Facebook.Subscribe & Review: Love this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and share it with fellow dairy professionals!