DairyBusiness

Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin (PDPW) member John Koepke, Oconomowoc,Wis., has been appointed to serve on the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) board by Governor Jim Doyle. The DATCP board is a nine-member policy-making body. Koepke’s appointment, effective immediately, will continue through May 1, 2015.

In making the appointment, Governor Doyle stated, “I am pleased to appoint John Koepke to the Board on Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. His background as a successful dairy farmer and active member of Wisconsin’s agricultural community will be incredibly valuable to the board.”

PDPW’s executive director Shelly Mayer applauds Governor Doyle’s selection, noting, “It’s great to have an active dairy producer like John serving our state in this capacity — and I’m pleased that John is willing to serve and help to position Wisconsin as a world leader in agriculture, food safety and consumer protection. With dairy representing more than $20 billion of the state economy, it is absolutely critical that dairy has a voice on this rule-making board.

“John is a young, enthusiastic leader who is a critical thinker and understands dairying. He will make educated, well-thought-out decisions that consider what is best for dairy producers and Wisconsin. He’s a bright, thoughtful individual.”

Koepke and his wife, Kim, are active PDPW members. John, who has a degree from Cornell University, operates Koepke Farms Inc. in partnership with his dad Jim and uncles Alan and David.  Koepke Farms milks 330 Holstein cows and has 970 acres dedicated to corn, soybeans and hay.

PDPW is a dairy-producer founded organization that provides educational programs and services to fellow dairy producers. PDPW’s mission is “to share ideas, solutions, resources, and experiences that help dairy producers succeed.”