October is Cooperative Month, and at GENEX, that means celebrating the people at the core of everything we do: our members. These dairy and beef producers bring passion, innovation and hard work to their operations every day, and we’re proud to share their voices through a special Q&A series this month.
In their stories, you’ll hear not only about their experiences and perspectives, but also how GENEX has partnered with them to achieve their goals and strengthen their herds. It’s a glimpse into the power of working side by side and learning from one another to build a stronger future for agriculture.
Alicia Lamb
Lamb Farms, Oakfield, New York
Tell us about your farm:
We own Lamb Farms and Oakfield Corners Dairy. Jonathan and Matthew Lamb represent the 12th generation in the Lamb family to farm in the U.S. Currently, we milk about 11,000 cows between three farms in western New York and a fourth farm in western Ohio, with about 99% of the herd being Holstein. We have a large genetics program, focusing on both index and show cattle.
How long have you been a co-op member of GENEX?
The Lamb family has worked with GENEX for many years, back to the early days of Eastern AI Cooperative. Jonathan recalls the early days of artificial insemination use on farm from GENEX, which was quite innovative at the time.
What do you like about being part of a cooperative?
I appreciate that the cooperative structure allows an organization to receive guidance from members who work directly in the agricultural field, providing a deeper understanding of what is happening at a grassroots level. All members work together towards a common goal with a similar focus.
What do you think GENEX does well when it comes to serving its members?
GENEX offers a variety of products that can help manage the farm. From LifeJacket™ calf coats to semen, the GENEX HerdMonitor™ cow monitoring system and more, there are products for farms of all sizes.
What do you value most about having a voice in a cooperative?
I believe farmer input is essential to cooperative management. Sharing your opinion can help shape the cooperative’s direction and contribute to long-term success. Cooperatives also reduce some of the controls and limitations that farmers might face with privately held organizations.
Can you share a specific example of when GENEX support, service or products made a difference for your farm?
GENEX offers bull lines that allow for greater diversity in the herd. Pedigree diversity in the Holstein population is declining steadily and is increasingly important. We appreciate having options to increase pedigree variety while increasing genetic gains.
Plus, GENEX staff have been excellent to work with, both on the farm and at delegate meetings. They are knowledgeable and able to assist in a variety of situations, which makes us feel confident using GENEX products and services at the farm level.
What role do you see cooperatives like GENEX playing in the future of agriculture?
I hope that cooperatives continue to exist in the future. As cooperatives and companies consolidate, the voice of the member-farmer is less heard by management. The experiences of successful cooperative members contribute to the overall success of the cooperative while staying true to the values of its member-farmers.
What advice would you give to a farmer or rancher considering joining GENEX?
GENEX management is supportive of new members, making it worthwhile to become involved. One of the greatest opportunities within the GENEX cooperative structure is serving as a delegate at the annual meeting. Touring different areas of the country, learning new ideas and meeting others in the industry provides a fresh perspective to bring back to the farm.
Want to become a member of GENEX Cooperative?
Learn more about GENEX membership and how to become a member by visiting genex.coop/membership.
Already a member? We encourage you to get more involved by becoming a GENEX delegate. For further information, reach out to Blaize Dankers-Donnay (GENEX Director of Member Engagement) at [email protected].