Brother-sister duo Natalie and Wade Kessenich, Forest, Wis., received one of six Young Jersey Breeder Awards given by the American Jersey Cattle Association in ceremonies June 28, 2019, during the association’s 151st Annual Meeting in Canton, Ohio.
The Young Jersey Breeder Award is presented to individuals or couples who are at least 28 years old and under the age of 40 on January 1 of the year nominated, who merit recognition for their expertise in dairy farming, breeding Jersey cattle, participation in programs of the American Jersey Cattle Association and National All-Jersey Inc., and leadership in Jersey and other dairy and agriculture organizations.
Both Kessenich siblings were active in the dairy and Jersey communities throughout their junior careers. Each had success competing in dairy judging teams, 4-H and FFA programs. They have also received numerous awards from their state Jersey association and FFA. Notably, Wade was a member of the inaugural class of Jersey Youth Academy.
Wade and Natalie milk 370 Registered Jerseys within their 670 cow herd on Kessenich Farms, LLC with their young families and parents. Their current actual rolling herd average is 20,982 lbs. milk, 1,055 lbs. fat and 760 lbs. protein on 441 lactations. They have had success with both production and type endeavors having placed multiple sires in A.I. service, bred multiple Hall of Fame Cows and a National Class Leader.
Both Natalie and Wade attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison Farm and Industry Short Course and gradated with an emphasis in dairy management. Through the years they have been in multiple leadership and service roles of the Parish 2 Jersey Breeders, Wisconsin Jersey Breeders Association and the Wisconsin State Show Committee.
The American Jersey Cattle Association was organized in 1868 to improve and promote the Jersey breed. Since 1957, National All-Jersey Inc. has served Jersey owners by promoting the increased production and sale of Jersey milk and milk products. For more information on its programs and services, visit www.USJersey.com or call 614/861-3636.
