WEBVTT 00:00:10.220 --> 00:00:14.039 Creeping across the pasture land. Got dirt on 00:00:14.039 --> 00:00:18.719 the boots and a working hand. From the milk house 00:00:18.719 --> 00:00:24.000 home to the auction call. These are the folks 00:00:24.000 --> 00:01:03.259 standing strong and tall. Yeah, this is... Hey 00:01:03.259 --> 00:01:05.799 there, dairy innovators. Welcome back to the 00:01:05.799 --> 00:01:09.299 Bullvine Podcast. I'm your host, and today I've 00:01:09.299 --> 00:01:11.439 got a story that's going to completely flip everything 00:01:11.439 --> 00:01:14.099 you think you know about dairy genetics on its 00:01:14.099 --> 00:01:17.840 head. Picture this. You're spending thousands, 00:01:17.959 --> 00:01:20.659 maybe tens of thousands of dollars every year 00:01:20.659 --> 00:01:23.299 buying the latest and greatest genetics from 00:01:23.299 --> 00:01:27.159 the top farms around the world. Meanwhile, there's 00:01:27.159 --> 00:01:30.299 a quiet operation in Drumbo. Ontario that hasn't 00:01:30.299 --> 00:01:33.340 bought a single animal in over 60 years. And 00:01:33.340 --> 00:01:36.180 guess what? They're absolutely crushing it with 00:01:36.180 --> 00:01:39.680 13 ,100 kilogram averages and a wall full of 00:01:39.680 --> 00:01:42.620 national awards. This is the story of Larenwood 00:01:42.620 --> 00:01:45.799 Farms and Chris McLaren. A story that proves 00:01:45.799 --> 00:01:47.939 the dairy industry's obsession with purchasing 00:01:47.939 --> 00:01:51.959 elite genetics is fundamentally flawed. Imagine 00:01:51.959 --> 00:01:54.560 that crisp morning scene at Larenwood Farms. 00:01:54.760 --> 00:01:58.000 The sun hasn't even risen yet, but there's Chris 00:01:58.000 --> 00:02:00.299 McLaren. already making his rounds through a 00:02:00.299 --> 00:02:03.780 barn where 110 Holstein cows represent decades 00:02:03.780 --> 00:02:07.280 of meticulous breeding decisions. Steam rises 00:02:07.280 --> 00:02:09.580 from their breath in the cool air while the gentle 00:02:09.580 --> 00:02:11.960 hum of milking machines creates this soothing 00:02:11.960 --> 00:02:14.639 backdrop to a daily rhythm that's been playing 00:02:14.639 --> 00:02:18.680 out here since 1852. This isn't just any farm, 00:02:18.740 --> 00:02:21.479 folks. This is living history with cutting -edge 00:02:21.479 --> 00:02:26.300 science folded into every corner. Now when you 00:02:26.300 --> 00:02:29.340 walk into their farm office, You can't miss the 00:02:29.340 --> 00:02:32.319 wall of awards. I'm talking plaques and shields 00:02:32.319 --> 00:02:35.139 everywhere. Multiple National Herd Management 00:02:35.139 --> 00:02:38.580 Awards. The coveted Holstein Canada Master Breeder 00:02:38.580 --> 00:02:41.460 Shield. These aren't just decorations gathering 00:02:41.460 --> 00:02:44.400 dust. They're milestones in a journey that perfectly 00:02:44.400 --> 00:02:47.400 blends old -school farming wisdom with the kind 00:02:47.400 --> 00:02:49.539 of innovation you'd expect from a tech startup. 00:02:49.979 --> 00:02:54.680 Not a 163 -year -old family operation. So let 00:02:54.680 --> 00:02:56.939 me tell you Chris's story. our family has been 00:02:56.939 --> 00:03:00.560 on this farm site for 163 years he says with 00:03:00.560 --> 00:03:02.740 the kind of smile that speaks volumes about his 00:03:02.740 --> 00:03:06.439 connection to the land our relatives on my grandmother's 00:03:06.439 --> 00:03:09.719 side moved here in 1852 and settled this property 00:03:09.719 --> 00:03:12.280 and we've continuously had our family on this 00:03:12.280 --> 00:03:15.900 site ever since i'm the sixth generation and 00:03:15.900 --> 00:03:18.620 haley joel and dana are the seventh generation 00:03:18.620 --> 00:03:22.000 to live on this farm site walking the property 00:03:22.000 --> 00:03:24.789 with chris You can't help but feel the weight 00:03:24.789 --> 00:03:28.310 of decisions made by farmers long gone. What 00:03:28.310 --> 00:03:30.909 started as a typical mixed farm gradually evolved 00:03:30.909 --> 00:03:33.729 into dairy specialization about 50 years ago. 00:03:34.349 --> 00:03:38.069 Now it spans roughly 700 acres, producing all 00:03:38.069 --> 00:03:40.870 the feed their livestock needs. But here's where 00:03:40.870 --> 00:03:43.729 it gets interesting. The real game changer for 00:03:43.729 --> 00:03:47.270 Larinwood came in 2012. That's when they built 00:03:47.270 --> 00:03:50.490 their new milking facility. designed for 126 00:03:50.490 --> 00:03:54.449 milking cows and 24 dry cows. Chris remembers 00:03:54.449 --> 00:03:57.969 that transition like it was yesterday. The morning 00:03:57.969 --> 00:04:00.650 after we moved the cows into the new barn, I 00:04:00.650 --> 00:04:02.889 remember standing in the feed alley just watching 00:04:02.889 --> 00:04:05.289 them, he recalls with the kind of enthusiasm 00:04:05.289 --> 00:04:07.830 you'd expect from someone describing their first 00:04:07.830 --> 00:04:11.490 sports car, not a dairy facility. They adapted 00:04:11.490 --> 00:04:13.750 quickly to the sand bedding and free stalls. 00:04:14.770 --> 00:04:17.149 Within hours, they were more comfortable than 00:04:17.149 --> 00:04:20.680 ever. That moment reinforced everything we believed 00:04:20.680 --> 00:04:24.500 about putting cow comfort first. Now what makes 00:04:24.500 --> 00:04:26.459 Chris such an interesting character in the dairy 00:04:26.459 --> 00:04:30.000 world? It's this rare combination of dirt under 00:04:30.000 --> 00:04:32.959 the fingernails farming experience and serious 00:04:32.959 --> 00:04:36.399 academic credentials. His path took him through 00:04:36.399 --> 00:04:38.639 the University of Guelph's Ontario Agricultural 00:04:38.639 --> 00:04:41.500 College and then to Ontario Veterinary College, 00:04:41.759 --> 00:04:44.879 where he earned a master's degree working with 00:04:44.879 --> 00:04:48.509 Dr. Ken Leslie's research group. That's not exactly 00:04:48.509 --> 00:04:50.990 the typical resume you expect from someone driving 00:04:50.990 --> 00:04:55.189 a feed truck at dawn, right? My time at the University 00:04:55.189 --> 00:04:57.709 of Guelph opened my eyes to the vast knowledge 00:04:57.709 --> 00:05:00.250 and understanding that research can have on improving 00:05:00.250 --> 00:05:04.490 the dairy farm, Chris shared. My time at OVC 00:05:04.490 --> 00:05:08.310 with Dr. Ken Leslie's research group allowed 00:05:08.310 --> 00:05:11.029 me to see how important research is to our farm 00:05:11.029 --> 00:05:13.959 and the industry. I am still in contact with 00:05:13.959 --> 00:05:16.480 many of his students and faculty for advice or 00:05:16.480 --> 00:05:20.860 to participate in research projects. This science 00:05:20.860 --> 00:05:23.019 -forward approach is evident in everything at 00:05:23.019 --> 00:05:26.060 Larenwood. Chris doesn't just review data. He 00:05:26.060 --> 00:05:28.120 interprets it through the lens of those academic 00:05:28.120 --> 00:05:32.680 foundations. Here's what's remarkable about their 00:05:32.680 --> 00:05:35.360 approach. Science insights are used every day 00:05:35.360 --> 00:05:38.420 in every decision we make, Chris emphasizes, 00:05:38.720 --> 00:05:40.500 with the conviction of someone who's seen the 00:05:40.500 --> 00:05:43.560 direct benefits. We're always looking to see 00:05:43.560 --> 00:05:45.680 what research says about management decisions. 00:05:46.459 --> 00:05:49.139 We always challenge salespeople to show us the 00:05:49.139 --> 00:05:52.420 research. We won't buy products or make management 00:05:52.420 --> 00:05:55.980 changes unless there's proof it works. Think 00:05:55.980 --> 00:05:58.860 about that for a second. How many of us actually 00:05:58.860 --> 00:06:01.500 challenge salespeople to show us the research? 00:06:02.180 --> 00:06:06.459 Most of us just take their word for it. Now let's 00:06:06.459 --> 00:06:09.379 talk about those awards. The Wall of Achievements 00:06:09.379 --> 00:06:11.779 at Larenwood tells a story few farms can match. 00:06:12.000 --> 00:06:14.600 They snagged the National DHI Herd Management 00:06:14.600 --> 00:06:18.660 Award for three consecutive years, 2014, 2015, 00:06:19.060 --> 00:06:22.939 and 2016. In 2021, they placed seventh among 00:06:22.939 --> 00:06:26.240 Canada's best -managed dairy herds. But the crown 00:06:26.240 --> 00:06:29.839 jewel? That 2019 Holstein Canada Master Breeder 00:06:29.839 --> 00:06:32.519 Shield. That's dairy farming's equivalent of 00:06:32.519 --> 00:06:35.560 an Oscar. When asked which award meant the most, 00:06:36.100 --> 00:06:38.839 Chris didn't hesitate. It's hard to pick between 00:06:38.839 --> 00:06:41.519 the Herd Management Award from Lactonet and Master 00:06:41.519 --> 00:06:44.240 Breeder. Both have been our goals for many years. 00:06:44.579 --> 00:06:47.220 To have accomplished both in such a short time 00:06:47.220 --> 00:06:50.319 is extremely gratifying. This is especially true 00:06:50.319 --> 00:06:53.060 since we are a closed herd and all improvements 00:06:53.060 --> 00:06:55.339 have been made through good management and breeding 00:06:55.339 --> 00:07:00.639 decisions over the long term. Let me put this 00:07:00.639 --> 00:07:03.600 in perspective for you. Most farms need decades 00:07:03.600 --> 00:07:07.279 to achieve just one of these recognitions. Larenwood 00:07:07.279 --> 00:07:10.399 knocked out both in quick succession. That's 00:07:10.399 --> 00:07:12.339 like winning a marathon and then immediately 00:07:12.339 --> 00:07:16.199 acing a triathlon. The numbers behind these achievements 00:07:16.199 --> 00:07:19.860 are just as impressive. They milk 110 to 115 00:07:19.860 --> 00:07:22.980 cows with an average 305 -day milk production 00:07:22.980 --> 00:07:27.660 of 13 ,100 kilograms. First lactation cows average 00:07:27.660 --> 00:07:31.279 11 ,100 kilograms. Second lactation cows hit 00:07:31.279 --> 00:07:34.939 13 ,600 kilograms. And third lactation cows reach 00:07:34.939 --> 00:07:39.100 a whopping 14 ,200 kilograms. Fat content, 4 00:07:39.100 --> 00:07:44.120 .5%. Protein, 3 .3%. And get this, their somatic 00:07:44.120 --> 00:07:47.379 cell count is just 48 ,000. If you know dairy, 00:07:47.500 --> 00:07:50.060 you know that's ridiculously low and speaks volumes 00:07:50.060 --> 00:07:53.139 about their milk quality. Chris has this great 00:07:53.139 --> 00:07:55.829 analogy for dairy farming. Managing a dairy herd 00:07:55.829 --> 00:07:58.209 is like juggling many balls in the air simultaneously 00:07:58.209 --> 00:08:01.610 and hoping not to drop any. If we drop a ball, 00:08:01.750 --> 00:08:04.529 we want to know why and how we can improve next 00:08:04.529 --> 00:08:07.629 time. That's the mindset that separates good 00:08:07.629 --> 00:08:11.850 farms from great ones. Now, before building their 00:08:11.850 --> 00:08:14.829 2012 facility, Chris became what I like to call 00:08:14.829 --> 00:08:18.149 a barn tourist. He visited farms across North 00:08:18.149 --> 00:08:20.269 America and internationally to cherry pick the 00:08:20.269 --> 00:08:23.769 best ideas. I did a lot of touring nationally. 00:08:24.329 --> 00:08:27.410 Locally and internationally, I went to many meetings 00:08:27.410 --> 00:08:29.689 and events and learned from many great producers. 00:08:31.290 --> 00:08:33.629 What strikes me about Chris's approach is how 00:08:33.629 --> 00:08:37.149 he watches his cows. You can tell so much just 00:08:37.149 --> 00:08:39.610 by watching, he says with the insight of someone 00:08:39.610 --> 00:08:42.649 who truly understands these animals. Are they 00:08:42.649 --> 00:08:44.710 comfortable in the stalls? Are they spending 00:08:44.710 --> 00:08:47.490 enough time lying down? Are they eating aggressively 00:08:47.490 --> 00:08:50.549 at the bunk? These observations tell me more 00:08:50.549 --> 00:08:55.139 than any computer data could. One principle trumped 00:08:55.139 --> 00:08:57.200 all others throughout the facility design process. 00:08:57.700 --> 00:09:01.600 Cow comfort. Focusing on cow comfort and keeping 00:09:01.600 --> 00:09:04.000 the cow as the center of the facility is important 00:09:04.000 --> 00:09:06.279 and key to getting the most from those cows, 00:09:06.539 --> 00:09:09.779 Chris emphasizes. This isn't just talk. Every 00:09:09.779 --> 00:09:12.679 detail, from the 48 -inch stalls with sand bedding 00:09:12.679 --> 00:09:15.100 to the ventilation system, was designed around 00:09:15.100 --> 00:09:20.139 what makes cows happy. Chris's father Grant has 00:09:20.139 --> 00:09:22.870 this brilliant philosophy. The best cow in the 00:09:22.870 --> 00:09:25.690 barn is one you don't know you have. Isn't that 00:09:25.690 --> 00:09:29.529 perfect? It captures their goal perfectly. Create 00:09:29.529 --> 00:09:32.169 an environment where cows thrive without constant 00:09:32.169 --> 00:09:34.929 intervention, freeing up the team to focus on 00:09:34.929 --> 00:09:39.190 improvement rather than putting out fires. The 00:09:39.190 --> 00:09:42.169 proof is in the pudding, or in this case, the 00:09:42.169 --> 00:09:45.690 milk. Since moving to the new facility, Larenwood 00:09:45.690 --> 00:09:48.509 has seen dramatic decreases in lameness and metabolic 00:09:48.509 --> 00:09:52.139 disorders while production has soared. By mid 00:09:52.139 --> 00:09:54.620 -morning at Larenwood, feed delivery takes center 00:09:54.620 --> 00:09:57.700 stage. Chris's approach to nutrition reflects 00:09:57.700 --> 00:10:00.480 the same scientific mindset he brings to everything 00:10:00.480 --> 00:10:04.000 else. I treat the dairy cow like she's an athlete, 00:10:04.179 --> 00:10:07.220 he explains. The athlete needs good genetics. 00:10:07.500 --> 00:10:10.120 You need good feed, you need good management, 00:10:10.379 --> 00:10:12.620 you need good prevention, and you need a good 00:10:12.620 --> 00:10:15.279 team around you. And that's kind of the philosophy 00:10:15.279 --> 00:10:17.399 we use when dealing with cows and everything 00:10:17.399 --> 00:10:22.730 that we do. The daily dance between Chris and 00:10:22.730 --> 00:10:25.350 Grant is something to behold. Grant typically 00:10:25.350 --> 00:10:27.789 handles the feed mixing, drawing on decades of 00:10:27.789 --> 00:10:30.169 experience, while Chris contributes insights 00:10:30.169 --> 00:10:32.649 from milk production data and health observations. 00:10:33.490 --> 00:10:36.330 It's a perfect blend of expertise and analysis. 00:10:36.929 --> 00:10:39.129 Their nutritional program isn't complicated, 00:10:39.429 --> 00:10:42.529 but it is precise. The total mixed ration uses 00:10:42.529 --> 00:10:45.970 about 60 % corn silage and 40 % haylage on a 00:10:45.970 --> 00:10:49.250 dry matter basis, plus high moisture corn, roasted 00:10:49.250 --> 00:10:53.730 soybeans, and a specialized protein blend. Now 00:10:53.730 --> 00:10:56.169 here's where things get really interesting. By 00:10:56.169 --> 00:10:58.789 mid -morning, Chris often shifts to the most 00:10:58.789 --> 00:11:00.909 fascinating aspect of Larinwood's operation, 00:11:01.269 --> 00:11:04.710 their genomic breeding program. Despite being 00:11:04.710 --> 00:11:07.470 a closed herd for over 60 years, meaning they 00:11:07.470 --> 00:11:09.789 haven't purchased outside animals, they've achieved 00:11:09.789 --> 00:11:12.090 remarkable genetic advancement through strategic 00:11:12.090 --> 00:11:16.340 breeding decisions. A turning point in our farm's 00:11:16.340 --> 00:11:19.379 genetics was when we started testing every animal 00:11:19.379 --> 00:11:22.500 with genomics, Chris explains with the enthusiasm 00:11:22.500 --> 00:11:25.860 of someone who's found a secret weapon. This 00:11:25.860 --> 00:11:28.399 technology gives us another tool to find the 00:11:28.399 --> 00:11:30.620 cows that will contribute to producing better 00:11:30.620 --> 00:11:34.059 cattle. The improvement and consistency of the 00:11:34.059 --> 00:11:38.480 herd has been incredible. Want proof? Let me 00:11:38.480 --> 00:11:40.539 share their production data by Lifetime Profit 00:11:40.539 --> 00:11:45.110 Index rankings. Cows with LPI values of 3447 00:11:45.110 --> 00:11:49.610 averaged 11 ,636 kilograms of milk. Those with 00:11:49.610 --> 00:11:55.889 LPI of 3236 averaged 11 ,639 kilograms. The 3069 00:11:55.889 --> 00:11:59.970 group hit 11 ,786 kilograms, and even the lowest 00:11:59.970 --> 00:12:04.110 group at 2808 LPI still averaged 11 ,574 kilograms. 00:12:04.490 --> 00:12:06.750 What does this mean in plain English? Cows with 00:12:06.750 --> 00:12:09.330 higher LPI consistently produce more milk with 00:12:09.330 --> 00:12:11.129 better components while maintaining healthier 00:12:11.129 --> 00:12:14.399 udders. For a commercial dairy, these differences 00:12:14.399 --> 00:12:18.519 translate directly to the bottom line. Here's 00:12:18.519 --> 00:12:20.639 how Chris balances technology with tradition. 00:12:21.679 --> 00:12:23.980 Genomics is a tool just as pedigree knowledge 00:12:23.980 --> 00:12:28.100 is, he explains. Genomics allows you to see animals 00:12:28.100 --> 00:12:30.220 and pedigrees needing more improvement or focus. 00:12:30.899 --> 00:12:33.460 However, having that knowledge of the pedigree 00:12:33.460 --> 00:12:35.759 and what has worked in a family helps to select 00:12:35.759 --> 00:12:39.139 bulls that complement cows. Their breeding philosophy 00:12:39.139 --> 00:12:42.409 is refreshingly straightforward. Make the daughter 00:12:42.409 --> 00:12:45.830 better than the mother. Each cow is bred by examining 00:12:45.830 --> 00:12:48.250 the linear traits of both cow and bull to find 00:12:48.250 --> 00:12:52.889 complementary matches. The results speak for 00:12:52.889 --> 00:12:56.029 themselves. Take their H family progression. 00:12:56.450 --> 00:12:59.350 Larenwood Air Intake Homer 903 scored 85 points 00:12:59.350 --> 00:13:04.409 in 4th lactation with 2478 LPI and 14 ,770 kg. 00:13:05.389 --> 00:13:07.690 Her daughter, Larenwood Alligator Homer 1123, 00:13:08.070 --> 00:13:11.330 scored 91 points in third lactation with 3116 00:13:11.330 --> 00:13:16.009 LPI and 15 ,130 kilograms. The next generation, 00:13:16.309 --> 00:13:19.929 Larenwood Ranger Red Homer 1269, scored 85 points 00:13:19.929 --> 00:13:24.590 in first lactation with 3 ,561 LPI and 11 ,830 00:13:24.590 --> 00:13:27.809 kilograms. You should see Chris when he talks 00:13:27.809 --> 00:13:30.730 about these cow families. His face lights up 00:13:30.730 --> 00:13:32.889 as he points out subtle improvements in udder 00:13:32.889 --> 00:13:36.159 texture, teat placement, and dairy strength that 00:13:36.159 --> 00:13:38.740 would escape the casual observer but represent 00:13:38.740 --> 00:13:43.360 decades of careful decisions. This focused breeding 00:13:43.360 --> 00:13:46.399 work has also produced outstanding bulls, now 00:13:46.399 --> 00:13:49.799 available through artificial insemination. Larinwood 00:13:49.799 --> 00:13:54.440 Maximum with 35 -53 LPI and Larinwood PG Monumental 00:13:54.440 --> 00:13:58.279 with 38 -39 LPI represent the culmination of 00:13:58.279 --> 00:14:01.659 generations of careful breeding. Having bulls 00:14:01.659 --> 00:14:03.879 in AI is a validation of our breeding philosophy, 00:14:04.360 --> 00:14:08.639 Chris says with justifiable pride. But more importantly, 00:14:08.879 --> 00:14:11.240 we know these bulls will create the kind of trouble 00:14:11.240 --> 00:14:13.379 -free, productive cows that commercial dairy 00:14:13.379 --> 00:14:16.000 farmers need to be profitable in today's challenging 00:14:16.000 --> 00:14:19.679 environment. By afternoon, Chris typically focuses 00:14:19.679 --> 00:14:23.000 on reproductive management, probably the least 00:14:23.000 --> 00:14:25.679 glamorous but most crucial aspect of dairy farming. 00:14:26.860 --> 00:14:29.559 Their move to the new facility in 2012 brought 00:14:29.559 --> 00:14:33.200 unexpected benefits in this area. We noticed 00:14:33.200 --> 00:14:35.200 when we came into the new barn that getting cows 00:14:35.200 --> 00:14:38.399 pregnant was improved. Seeing cows move around 00:14:38.399 --> 00:14:41.799 and technologies all helped. Through careful 00:14:41.799 --> 00:14:44.759 analysis and consultation with advisors, they've 00:14:44.759 --> 00:14:48.139 achieved a pregnancy rate of 28%. That's significantly 00:14:48.139 --> 00:14:50.559 above the provincial average. Their breeding 00:14:50.559 --> 00:14:54.120 strategy is surgical in its precision. 25 % of 00:14:54.120 --> 00:14:57.059 heifers are bred with sex semen. 25 % are recipients, 00:14:57.139 --> 00:15:00.039 and 50 % get conventional semen. The milking 00:15:00.039 --> 00:15:02.919 herd gets 10 % sex to heifers, the bottom 20 00:15:02.919 --> 00:15:08.220 % to beef, and the rest conventional semen. The 00:15:08.220 --> 00:15:11.379 stats are impressive. 70 % insemination rate, 00:15:11.539 --> 00:15:15.039 45 % conception rate, 41 % conception at first 00:15:15.039 --> 00:15:19.120 breeding, and 83 % of cows pregnant by 150 days 00:15:19.120 --> 00:15:22.659 in milk. These numbers put Larenwood an elite 00:15:22.659 --> 00:15:26.580 company for reproductive performance. Chris describes 00:15:26.580 --> 00:15:28.940 his late afternoon rounds through the dry cow 00:15:28.940 --> 00:15:32.179 area. He examines each pregnant animal with the 00:15:32.179 --> 00:15:34.860 care of an expectant father, mentally planning 00:15:34.860 --> 00:15:36.840 their calving management and future breeding. 00:15:37.639 --> 00:15:40.279 Each pregnant cow represents not just future 00:15:40.279 --> 00:15:42.600 milk production, but the next step in our genetic 00:15:42.600 --> 00:15:45.200 plan, he explains. I'm already thinking about 00:15:45.200 --> 00:15:47.460 what bull might work best on her daughter before 00:15:47.460 --> 00:15:53.139 she's born. Talk about planning ahead. As evening 00:15:53.139 --> 00:15:55.460 approaches at Larenwood, Chris and Grant meet 00:15:55.460 --> 00:15:57.720 again to review the day and plan for tomorrow. 00:15:58.659 --> 00:16:01.419 Their collaborative management style exemplifies 00:16:01.419 --> 00:16:04.679 what family farming should be. I am involved 00:16:04.679 --> 00:16:07.500 in the overall management, genetics, and herd 00:16:07.500 --> 00:16:10.440 health. My dad is focused on the feeding and 00:16:10.440 --> 00:16:13.480 cropping, Chris explains. We both have input 00:16:13.480 --> 00:16:16.100 into all aspects but have the area we are mostly 00:16:16.100 --> 00:16:19.379 focused on. We talk each morning to set the day's 00:16:19.379 --> 00:16:22.860 priorities. Chris's appreciation for his father's 00:16:22.860 --> 00:16:25.179 mentorship shines through in every conversation. 00:16:25.580 --> 00:16:28.299 My biggest mentor and advisor would be my dad. 00:16:28.740 --> 00:16:31.379 He is supportive of all the changes we make. 00:16:31.519 --> 00:16:34.299 He is very thoughtful and analytical of every 00:16:34.299 --> 00:16:36.519 decision to ensure we make the correct choice. 00:16:37.700 --> 00:16:40.360 The most fascinating thing about Larenwood might 00:16:40.360 --> 00:16:42.779 be how they blend six generations of farming 00:16:42.779 --> 00:16:45.159 wisdom with cutting -edge scientific knowledge. 00:16:45.440 --> 00:16:48.539 As a 60 -plus year closed herd with such deep 00:16:48.539 --> 00:16:51.440 family history, Tradition runs in their soil. 00:16:51.980 --> 00:16:54.740 Yet they consistently embrace innovation that 00:16:54.740 --> 00:16:57.940 many newer operations miss. We're always learning 00:16:57.940 --> 00:17:00.960 from past experiences, which helps us learn and 00:17:00.960 --> 00:17:02.940 grow as dairy herd managers, Chris reflects. 00:17:03.600 --> 00:17:06.039 There's great value in listening to the past 00:17:06.039 --> 00:17:09.220 and not repeating mistakes. However, we're always 00:17:09.220 --> 00:17:12.720 open to new, well -researched ideas. You can 00:17:12.720 --> 00:17:15.180 see this balance in action during breeding decisions. 00:17:16.089 --> 00:17:18.670 Chris might be consulting genomic data on his 00:17:18.670 --> 00:17:21.069 tablet while drawing on generational knowledge 00:17:21.069 --> 00:17:24.990 of cow families. The genomics tell me the numbers, 00:17:25.210 --> 00:17:27.730 but our family history with these cows tells 00:17:27.730 --> 00:17:30.309 me how they'll likely respond to different management 00:17:30.309 --> 00:17:33.609 approaches. You need both perspectives to make 00:17:33.609 --> 00:17:37.950 the best decisions. Now, no farm reaches Larenwood's 00:17:37.950 --> 00:17:41.349 level without facing serious challenges. When 00:17:41.349 --> 00:17:43.789 asked how he maintains motivation through setbacks, 00:17:44.329 --> 00:17:47.029 Chris's answer reveals the mindset that's propelled 00:17:47.029 --> 00:17:50.190 their success. I always try to do my best in 00:17:50.190 --> 00:17:52.829 everything that I do. There is always room for 00:17:52.829 --> 00:17:56.329 improvement, and that is what motivates me. Failure 00:17:56.329 --> 00:17:58.829 or an issue is a challenge to fix that problem 00:17:58.829 --> 00:18:02.049 and be successful. The McLaren's approach to 00:18:02.049 --> 00:18:04.490 challenges is methodical and research -driven. 00:18:04.710 --> 00:18:07.049 By doing the proper research and asking lots 00:18:07.049 --> 00:18:09.690 of questions before we change something, we believe 00:18:09.690 --> 00:18:11.670 we make the correct decision at that moment, 00:18:11.809 --> 00:18:16.369 and few mistakes are made. Chris explains. So 00:18:16.369 --> 00:18:18.849 what's next for Larenwood? Here's what's fantastic 00:18:18.849 --> 00:18:21.829 about this operation. They don't just talk about 00:18:21.829 --> 00:18:24.789 improvements. They make them happen. That tie 00:18:24.789 --> 00:18:27.250 stall barn renovation for automatic calf feeders? 00:18:27.630 --> 00:18:31.569 They completed that project in 2022. That new 00:18:31.569 --> 00:18:36.650 heifer facility? They built it in 2023. The combination 00:18:36.650 --> 00:18:39.559 of the calf barn, the heifer barn, and better 00:18:39.559 --> 00:18:42.380 genetics all contributed to almost 1 ,000 kilograms 00:18:42.380 --> 00:18:45.420 per lactation more milk for the first lactation 00:18:45.420 --> 00:18:48.099 animals, Chris says with well -deserved pride. 00:18:48.839 --> 00:18:51.819 Can you imagine that kind of improvement? We're 00:18:51.819 --> 00:18:54.140 talking about first calf heifers producing an 00:18:54.140 --> 00:18:58.039 extra 1 ,000 kilograms of milk each. That's the 00:18:58.039 --> 00:19:00.819 power of combining facility improvements with 00:19:00.819 --> 00:19:03.579 genetic advancement. So what's actually on the 00:19:03.579 --> 00:19:06.299 horizon for Larenwood now? Something even more 00:19:06.299 --> 00:19:09.299 exciting. We are renovating our milking barn 00:19:09.299 --> 00:19:12.599 for robotic milking, Chris explains. This is 00:19:12.599 --> 00:19:15.339 the next evolution of Larenwood, from tie stall 00:19:15.339 --> 00:19:19.240 to free stall, now robotic. The robotic milking 00:19:19.240 --> 00:19:22.039 system isn't just fancy new technology, it fundamentally 00:19:22.039 --> 00:19:25.259 changes the relationship between cow and caretaker. 00:19:25.440 --> 00:19:27.720 This will allow for a more stress -free barn 00:19:27.720 --> 00:19:30.119 that allows the cow to be milked as often as 00:19:30.119 --> 00:19:33.359 she chooses. This will increase the milk production 00:19:33.359 --> 00:19:36.019 per cow from the current twice -daily milking. 00:19:38.509 --> 00:19:41.509 Think about what this means for the cows. Instead 00:19:41.509 --> 00:19:43.829 of being herded to the parlor on a strict schedule, 00:19:44.069 --> 00:19:46.190 they can decide when they want to be milked. 00:19:46.849 --> 00:19:49.650 Some might go three or four times daily, especially 00:19:49.650 --> 00:19:52.890 in peak lactation. It's cow -centered farming 00:19:52.890 --> 00:19:55.549 taken to the next level. As the day winds down 00:19:55.549 --> 00:19:58.190 at Larenwood, Chris makes his final barn check 00:19:58.190 --> 00:20:01.069 under the soft night lighting. In these quiet 00:20:01.069 --> 00:20:03.569 moments, he often reflects on the journey and 00:20:03.569 --> 00:20:07.039 what wisdom he might pass along. His advice for 00:20:07.039 --> 00:20:11.079 young farmers is worth its weight in gold. Learn 00:20:11.079 --> 00:20:14.079 from as many people as you can. Don't be afraid 00:20:14.079 --> 00:20:16.160 of asking questions from those that are better 00:20:16.160 --> 00:20:19.460 than you. Learn from them and you will be surprised 00:20:19.460 --> 00:20:21.700 by how many people are willing to answer all 00:20:21.700 --> 00:20:24.900 your questions. He emphasizes patience and persistence. 00:20:25.319 --> 00:20:28.000 Long -term consistent success does not happen 00:20:28.000 --> 00:20:31.099 overnight. Stay patient and focused on your goals. 00:20:31.460 --> 00:20:34.440 And his most important principle? But most of 00:20:34.440 --> 00:20:36.700 all, always keep the cow at the forefront of 00:20:36.700 --> 00:20:39.259 everything you do. This advice encapsulates the 00:20:39.259 --> 00:20:41.920 Larenwood approach. Humble learning, long -term 00:20:41.920 --> 00:20:44.759 vision, and unwavering commitment to animal welfare. 00:20:44.980 --> 00:20:47.880 It's how six generations have built one of Canada's 00:20:47.880 --> 00:20:51.720 most respected dairy operations. As darkness 00:20:51.720 --> 00:20:54.539 settles over Larenwood farms, the barn lights 00:20:54.539 --> 00:20:57.400 dim, and the rhythmic sound of contented cows 00:20:57.400 --> 00:20:59.720 chewing their cud creates a peaceful backdrop 00:20:59.720 --> 00:21:02.380 that belies the sophisticated operation behind 00:21:02.380 --> 00:21:06.109 the scenes. This place, this remarkable blend 00:21:06.109 --> 00:21:08.809 of heritage and innovation, stands as living 00:21:08.809 --> 00:21:11.549 proof of what's possible when family wisdom meets 00:21:11.549 --> 00:21:15.450 scientific precision. From genomic testing to 00:21:15.450 --> 00:21:18.009 facility design, from their award -winning breeding 00:21:18.009 --> 00:21:20.509 program to their meticulous attention to cow 00:21:20.509 --> 00:21:23.730 health, every aspect of Larenwood reflects a 00:21:23.730 --> 00:21:25.970 commitment to excellence that spans generations. 00:21:27.230 --> 00:21:29.829 Those national awards aren't just decorations. 00:21:30.990 --> 00:21:33.410 Their external validation of an approach that 00:21:33.410 --> 00:21:36.750 puts cows first while embracing science and tradition. 00:21:37.670 --> 00:21:40.789 What makes Larenwood's story so compelling isn't 00:21:40.789 --> 00:21:42.930 just the impressive statistics or the wall of 00:21:42.930 --> 00:21:45.269 awards. It's the values guiding their success 00:21:45.269 --> 00:21:49.450 for over 160 years. Putting the cow first, embracing 00:21:49.450 --> 00:21:52.109 continuous improvement, making data -driven decisions, 00:21:52.529 --> 00:21:54.869 and maintaining that long -term perspective that 00:21:54.869 --> 00:21:59.490 seems increasingly rare today. In an era of agricultural 00:21:59.490 --> 00:22:03.009 consolidation and economic pressure, Larinwood 00:22:03.009 --> 00:22:05.569 is a testament to the enduring power of thoughtful, 00:22:05.750 --> 00:22:09.049 knowledge -based farming. Chris McLaren and his 00:22:09.049 --> 00:22:11.609 family have created an award -winning dairy operation 00:22:11.609 --> 00:22:15.029 by honoring their rich heritage while embracing 00:22:15.029 --> 00:22:18.930 scientific advancement. So here's my challenge 00:22:18.930 --> 00:22:21.589 to you, listeners. The next time someone tries 00:22:21.589 --> 00:22:23.609 to sell you the latest and greatest genetics, 00:22:23.930 --> 00:22:28.000 ask yourself this question. If a 60 -year closed 00:22:28.000 --> 00:22:31.720 herd can achieve 13 ,100 kilogram averages through 00:22:31.720 --> 00:22:34.119 internal breeding decisions, what's stopping 00:22:34.119 --> 00:22:36.339 you from developing your own genetic powerhouse? 00:22:37.119 --> 00:22:39.640 Maybe it's time we stopped buying our way to 00:22:39.640 --> 00:22:41.859 genetic progress and started building it ourselves. 00:22:42.700 --> 00:22:45.500 Just like Chris McLaren and the remarkable team 00:22:45.500 --> 00:22:48.579 at Larenwood Farms. That's our show for today. 00:22:49.319 --> 00:22:51.599 If this story challenged your thinking about 00:22:51.599 --> 00:22:54.640 dairy genetics, I'd love to hear from you. Drop 00:22:54.640 --> 00:22:57.069 us a line at the bullvine. And don't forget to 00:22:57.069 --> 00:22:59.410 subscribe for more stories that challenge conventional 00:22:59.410 --> 00:23:02.569 dairy wisdom. Until next time, keep questioning, 00:23:02.829 --> 00:23:05.190 keep improving, and never forget to put the cow 00:23:05.190 --> 00:23:05.509 first.