We continue our conversation today with Colton Brodt to find out why he decided to be an organic dairy farmer – and what he considers the profession’s greatest challenges and opportunities.

When did you first know you wanted to be a dairy farmer?
Growing up on a dairy farm, I fell in love with the lifestyle – being outdoors, feeding the calves, playing around the barn and enjoying spending time with family.

What’s the best part about the profession you’re choosing?
Every day on the farm is routine, but something new always happens. Whether it’s helping feed a newborn calf or getting curious heifers (who thought it would be fun to walk down Main Street) back in the field, every day is a learning experience and an adventure. Managing an organic dairy is a tough job, but I love the work that comes along with it. I’m proud to tell people where I’m from and what I want to do. Being an organic dairyman would make me even prouder.

What are the biggest challenges with being a dairyman?
There are physical hardships, including strenuous work, long days and tough weather. And, there also are business challenges in starting a new dairy like acquiring a processor to ship milk to and finding a dairy for lease or sale that includes barns, a milking parlor and pastures that are already organically certified. That’s important because there’s a three-year transition period for non-organic land. The amount of capital needed to buy cows, pay rent and purchase equipment can be very scary on paper. But with a sound business plan and hard work, debts can be paid off and dairy farmers can make a good living.

What would you say to others thinking about this profession?
It’s something you can’t jump into. Farming is a way of life, but it’s also a business. It’s something you have to be committed to and passionate about. You have to make good decisions and stay up with technology and the latest organic practices.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
Hopefully, one day down the road, I’ll be a successful organic dairy owner with a family, teaching my children lessons about hard work and watching them grow up the same way I did.

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