Cow engineering drives Schakel dairy farm expansion near Pella
Reuben Schakel and Clarence Bruxvoort operate a 137 acre dairy 11 miles northeast of Pella with 164 cows. They use human engineering ideas to tailor stalls, sheds, and fences to cow habits, adding portable loafing sheds and a solar heated, lightened free stall. The milk parlor handles 12 stalls, 6 cows per side, with De Laval vacuum piping and 38–42 degree bulk tanks. Plans push herd to 150 milking and 200 cows. Holsteins bred to Angus for market premium. Calves sold on farm. Italy and Israel have been buying young calves for meat. Henry Bruxvoort, a Pella Christian grad, plans to join operation.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Reuben Schakel
Pella
Clarence Bruxvoort
Schakel
Bruxvoort
Dick Boat
de Laval
Des Moines
Grove Valley
Italy
Israel
United States
Schakel and
Henry
Pella Christian High School
Grinnell angler nets state record catfish at Diamond Lake
Jim Van Draska of Grinnell caught a 35 inch long catfish at Diamond Lake last week that likely sets a new Iowa record. The 23 lb fish measured 24 inches around and was taken on a 15 lb test line with help from Frank Kester and Gary Killion, both of Grinnell.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Jim van Draska
Grinnell
Diamond Lake
van Draska
Frank Kester
Gary Killion
Dairy farming costs demand huge investment for new entrants
The piece argues dairy farming requires large capital across land, cattle, equipment, and buildings totaling about $130,000 for an average 30 acre, 50 cow operation. It compares high asset intensity to heavy industry and notes rising land prices, making entry hard for first generation farm families and highlighting finance, labor, retooling, and tax challenges.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Midwest
The American farmer faces nature and market risks
On June 3 1965 it was noted that the farmer bears the brunt of nature’s swings and price fluctuations. Drought flood or pestilence can wipe out a crop overnight while dairy farmers must keep 50 animals in proper health for profits. Each farmer supports 27 city dwellers and remains vital to the economy.
Milk energy claims in homemaker diet guide
A historical note asserts that a glass of milk provides energy to walk a mile or dance for an hour while listing tasks it supports such as climbing stairs and sewing. It promotes milk as a universal nutrient base for weight management, bone and teeth health, and calcium’s role in muscle function, nerves, and blood clotting.
Also Mentioned on This Page
Schackel
Roger Bruxvoort
Pella Chronicle Farm
Wayne Lucas
Robin Hood
Heinz
Hershey
van Camp
Shasta Fruit Drinks
Polk County Federal
Polk County Federal Savings and Loan Association
Iowa
Catfish
Artic
Coleman Fuels
Straver’s
Pella, Iowa
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