Life Satisfaction on Grazing Dairy Farms in Wisconsin

Posted December 2006

grazing dairy farmHow satisfied are graziers with their lives? According to a recent survey, graziers are more satisfied with all quality of life measures than farmers who use pasture less intensively and operators of small confinement dairies. Dairy graziers and operators of large confinement dairies expressed the same high levels of satisfaction with family time, time with spouse, farming system, ability to be a steward of the land, ability to change their farming system and relationship with their animals. Graziers reported the highest level of satisfaction with herd health, even when compared to large confinement farms.

Read a summary of this research (pdf file)

CIAS is celebrating its 20th anniversary!

In 1989, farmers, farm and environmental groups, researchers, educators and other citizens joined forces to start CIAS. Twenty years later, we are recognized as one of eight national campus leaders in sustainable agriculture. We’ve worked across the state to put the Wisconsin Idea to work. Read about our accomplishments here.

Events

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CIAS in the community

Ride to Farm

Ride to Farm

From June 12-14, a group of fearless riders braved the wind and hills of southern Wisconsin to raise money for, and awareness of, the Wisconsin School for Beginning Dairy and Livestock Farmers. The 2009 Ride to Farm covered about 200 miles. Ride stops included the farm of SBDF graduate Kyle Tews in Orfordville and Uplands Cheese in Dodgeville. Delicious dinners were provided by the Monroe and River Valley FFA chapters. Many thanks to all of our riders, supporters and sponsors!

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