It’s no small task to keep a dairy herd healthy and productive, and we want to recognize producers whose practices give a shining example of commitment to putting dairy first. Each year, producers across the country are nominated for their excellent management and milk quality practices, as well as an overall commitment to the well-being of their dairy cows through the Dairy First Award.
Congratulations, 2025 Dairy First Award Winner — GenoSource!
GenoSource LLC of Blairstown, Iowa, has been honored with the 2025 Dairy First Award for its commitment to milk quality and animal well-being. What began with a focus on genetics and a world-renowned breeding program has evolved into a modern dairy operation built on cow comfort and proactive herd health management.
Led by first cousins Tim Rauen, Matt Simon and Kyle Demmer, GenoSource pairs large-scale milk production with a disciplined approach to doing things the right way. From advanced herd-monitoring tools to smart barn design, this family operation’s commitment to excellence supports nutritious milk, healthier cows and long-term sustainability.
We don’t want to milk just any cow. We want to milk the best cow.
2024 Dairy First Award Winner
Kristin Quist, Minglewood Inc., Deer Park, Wisconsin
Kristin Quist earned recognition in 2024 for her steadfast commitment to milk quality and animal well-being. Quist prioritizes strong milk management protocols, clear communication, advanced technology and consistent cow comfort. Her “never satisfied” mindset has driven the adoption of tools like the smaXtec bolus system to detect mastitis earlier and reduce antibiotic use.
2023 Dairy First Award Winner
Tom Wegner, Wegnerlann Dairy, Ettrick, Wisconsin
Tom Wegner stood out in 2023 as the dairy producer most deserving of recognition for his ongoing care and commitment to milk quality and herd well-being. Wegner prioritizes cow comfort with top-notch milking protocols, somatic cell count management, team communications, biannual employee training, and activity collars. His devotion to caring for his cows is evident to everyone who visits Wegnerlann.
2022 Dairy First Award Winner
Jake Peissig, JTP Farms, Dorchester, Wisconsin
Jake Peissig received the inaugural Dairy First Award in 2022 in recognition for his best-in-class animal welfare and milk quality practices. Peissig implemented selective dry cow therapy, culture-based mastitis treatment protocols, vaccination, and rumination and activity collars to ensure his herd receives the best care.
All trademarks shown are the property of their respective owner. ©2025 Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA Inc., Duluth, GA. All rights reserved.
US-RUM-0033-2025-V2