As 2017 winds down, it’s an opportune time to look back on the year that was. And what a tremendous time of change—and opportunity—for Land O’Lakes, Inc. We had new additions to the business, a new administration, the rollout of new products and much more.
And Land O’Lakes, Inc. member news was there every step of the way, offering a look at our advocacy efforts, business insights and growth strategies. Our success depends on member engagement—and with this new communications channel, we’re certainly on the right path.
Without further ado, here are the top five stories from the member site this year:
This article covered everything from 2016 progress and victories—like GMO labeling—to a breakdown of looming issues such as immigration and trade. The Land O’Lakes member site will always keep Legislative advocacy front-and-center to keep members informed on policies and decisions made in Washington D.C. that will affect our businesses.
When you think about the word “field trip,” you may imagine trips to the zoo or grade school adventures. But there is another type of field trip tailored specifically for growers, members and producers associated with Land O’Lakes: The WinField United Ultimate Field Trip. This article was read consistently through the entire year, with its focus on the learning experience and business insights offering a look into a tremendous opportunity for members.
“Why aren’t cows able to go outside? Why do you take the babies away from their mamas? What is the FARM program?” These are just a few of the questions dairy farmers often receive—which is why educating consumers is so vital and why the Land O’Lakes’ Farmers Assuring Responsible Management team took this specific opportunity to provide a farm tour for a curious consumer’s family. It was one of our most deeply read stories of the year, showing the power of an on-farm education.
Nestled in California’s Central Valley is Fresno County, one of the state’s top 10 counties for milk production. Here, dairy is a big business. The average number of cows per dairy in Fresno County is 1,565. The number of cows at Adamscows Dairy, a Land O’Lakes, Inc. member farm? Just 65. This article tells the story of this unique dairy and how they take pride in staying small.
In terms of the most popular article of the year, it wasn’t even close: Our introduction of the Land O’Lakes, Inc. Farm Bowl and how it aims to elevate the story of modern agriculture to a new audience was most-read by a wide margin.
On the Thursday before the game, Land O’Lakes Farm Bowl will pit teams of current and former professional football players and Land O’Lakes farmers against each other in a series of on-farm experiences and light-hearted, farm-themed challenges to demonstrate the skill, determination and grit required to succeed as a farmer today.
And we can’t wait.