The Dairy-Beef Connection: Inside Route 77 Dairy with Joel Van Dam

Joel Van Dam, a third-generation dairy farmer from Route 77 Dairy, takes us behind the scenes of modern dairy production and its surprising connection to the beef industry. With 4,200 dairy cows and a newly acquired ranch, Joel bridges two agricultural worlds with innovative thinking and deep family roots.

The conversation explores "beef on dairy" genetics – an increasingly common practice where dairy cows are bred with specialized beef bulls to produce calves with better beef characteristics. For eight years, Joel has refined this approach using TD Beef (Angus) genetics, creating animals that satisfy both dairy efficiency and beef quality demands. These crossbred calves represent a solution to one of dairy's longstanding challenges: finding valuable markets for male calves born to dairy cows.

Technology plays a starring role in Joel's operation. Each cow wears an ear tag that monitors body temperature, rumination (digestive activity), and behavior patterns – allowing for precise, individualized care. This technological edge helps overcome the nationwide shortage of large animal veterinarians while maintaining exceptional animal welfare standards.

Joel dispels common misconceptions about dairy production, explaining the rigorous testing that ensures milk contains no antibiotics or inappropriate hormones. Every load undergoes testing before leaving the farm, maintaining the highest food safety standards. Similarly, the milking facilities maintain cleanliness levels that surprise most visitors – often "cleaner than most people's houses."

Despite challenges like finding qualified workers and managing weather extremes, Joel remains passionate about agriculture. His "fail forward" philosophy embraces innovation and learning from mistakes. With eleven new countries seeking American milk and growing opportunities for beef-dairy crossbreeds, the future looks promising for producers willing to adapt.

Whether you're curious about where your food comes from or considering a career in agriculture, this episode offers valuable insights into an industry that continues to evolve while maintaining its family-centered roots. Subscribe now to hear more stories from the people who produce the food on your table!