For Immediate Release
Contact: Kim O’Brien, Media Relations, Corporate Communications
816-801-6840 [email protected]
EBERLY FAMILY FARM HONORED AS A 2019 DFA MEMBER OF DISTINCTION
KANSAS CITY, Kan. (March 20, 2019) – The Eberly family, owners of Eberly Family Farm in Waynesboro, Ga., has been named among the 2019 Members of Distinction by Dairy Farmers of America (DFA).
The Members of Distinction program recognizes dairy farmers who excel on their operations, in their communities and in the industry. Honorees inspire others through their actions, leadership and involvement. They represent the best of the dairy industry.
DFA comprises nearly 14,000 farmer-owners across the United States. Each year, one notable member farm from each of DFA’s seven regional Areas is selected to receive this honor. Eberly Family Farm represents the Cooperative’s Southeast Area.
A first-generation dairy operation, Eberly Family Farm has an eye on the future with father-son team Eldon and Brandon Eberly who milk about 850 cows on 800 acres. By transitioning from a pasture-based model to a conventional system, the Eberly family has maximized cow comfort, hygiene, management practices, and ultimately, milk quality.
“Milk quality has been one of our top priorities over the last several years. It’s very important to us,” says Eldon. “We try every day to do our best to provide the best-quality milk that we can.”
The family credits their focus on the cows’ environment and overall parlor management as key factors to helping ensure quality milk. In 2014, the Eberlys also constructed two large freestall barns to help improve their cows’ comfort.
Beyond taking care of the cows, Eldon is focused on grooming the next generation of dairy farmers.
“It means a lot to me to have Brendon want to be involved in agriculture. I think it’s a good life,” says Eldon. Adds Brendon, “I see the dairy industry as a thriving industry and would love to take over the farm and continue what my dad has started.”
Editor’s Note: A print-quality family photo is available by request, email Kim O’Brien at [email protected] if you would like to receive. A video highlighting the farm is also available at https://bit.ly/2UHYAvj
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Dairy Farmers of America is a national, farmer-owned dairy cooperative focusing on quality, innovation and the future of family dairies. While supporting and serving nearly 14,000 family farmers, DFA works with some of the world’s largest food companies to develop ingredients that satisfy their customers’ cravings while staying committed to social responsibility and ethical farming. For more information, please visit dfamilk.com.