Mike Haddad and Suzanne Vold: Dairy’s plan for sustainability

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Jenn Coyne visits with Mike Haddad, the former chair of the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, as well as dairy producer Suzanne Vold of Minnesota. Last year, Haddad spoke at the Dairy Sustainability Alliance fall meeting where he reminded the audience of the industry’s unity and alignment on sustainability goals for the future of the industry. This episode dives further into those efforts and leans on Vold. She and her family’s experiences in implementing sustainable practices on their farm showcase how efforts are being accomplished and the impact they have for the dairy community. Here is the episode breakdown: What are the industry’s goals for sustainability in the future? [~2:19]Why is this so important for farmer's social right to farm? [~6:08]Why is it important for the Volds to keep sustainability top of mind? [~8:26]What key ways has the industry been supported to reach these goals? [~11:37]How is the industry as a whole supporting farmers reaching these goals on their individual farms or regions across the U.S.? [~19:06]Vold: How has your family’s farm kept sustainability at the forefront of your operation? [~24:21]Which partnerships created through the USDA Partnership for Climate Smart Commodities stand out? [~29:14]Haddad: In your career, how did you see the industry progress in sustainability? [~35:32]What excites you about the industry’s current position and its path for the future? [~38:23]Rapid-fire questions [~39:56] Contact: Scott Wallin, Dairy Management Inc.  [email protected]