Tell us a bit about yourself and your farm.
Pagel Family Businesses encompasses five milking sites, milking 12,500 cows, along with our calf and heifer raising operations. It doesn’t stop there, however! Dad always wanted to make cheese, so we also produce whip, string, curd, snow cheddar, and other farmstead cheeses on-site at our very own cheese plant. Our retail store, Ron’s Cheese, allows us to connect directly with consumers while keeping our products local. I grew up on our family farm, Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy. After college and starting my career, Dad talked to me about coming back to the farm. Our first daughter had just been born, so the timing was perfect. I worked alongside my dad and stepmom in the office, which used to be located in the farmhouse living room. I had the best seat in the house, right next to Dad, learning from him every day. Today, the Pagel Family Businesses are owned by me and my two brothers, with my third brother operating his own custom-hire business while continuing to work alongside our operation. Dad taught us to advocate for what we believe in, which has led me to serve on the Edge board. He was one of the founders of DBA and Edge organizations, and I hope to carry forward his legacy by serving the industry with the same commitment.
Tell us why you are committed to the organization and what it means to your farm.
As an Edge Dairy Farm Cooperative board member, I have come to understand how critical advocacy is now and for future generations. I’m a full-time mom of three, daughter, sister and Chief People Officer (CPO). I love working with people, creating a positive culture and a place you want to work. I value people and learning from other perspectives. That’s what Edge brings, creative minds with a variety of viewpoints to strategize towards the common goal; to be the “Voice of Milk.”
What are you currently enjoying the most in your role on the board, and what are you looking forward to in the months ahead?
Edge has created an organization that is leading in the industry in a positive direction and a respected voice. I had the privilege of attending the signing of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act at the White House because I shared my perspectives on dairy-related topics. I’m committed to continuing this work, advocating for what we believe in, strengthening the voice of the farmer, and helping guide our industry through both the changes ahead and the areas where change is needed. The dairy industry is evolving rapidly, and it’s our responsibility to look ahead and prepare for the future.