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The National Dairy Shrine recognizes Siemers Holstein Farm, Inc. of Newton, Wisconsin as the 2025 recipient of the Distinguished Dairy Cattle Breeder Award. This honor is awarded annually to a breeder who exemplifies success in managing a dairy herd through strong genetic and business practices. Few embody those traits more completely than the Siemers family.
A sixth-generation family operation located along Lake Michigan, Siemers Holsteins has grown into one of the most recognized breeding programs in the world. With 8,000 cows on test, the farm maintains a rolling herd average of 33,924M 4.39 1488F 3.13 1061P. Their genetic program is equally impressive, with 369 bulls placed in AI under the Siemers prefix, and an average TPI of 2613 on the milking herd and 2902 on heifers.
A hallmark of the Siemers breeding philosophy is their commitment to balance—what they describe as “Genetics for Cow People.” Their approach blends type, production, and health traits to develop cows that are not only high-performing but also built to last. Their consistency has earned them numerous accolades, including Holstein USA Herd of Excellence every year since 2016 and the Progressive Genetics Herd Award annually since 1991.
Nearly 1,300 Excellent cows carry the Siemers prefix, including four homebred EX-95s and 75 scored EX-94 or higher, as well as nearly 500 Dams of Merit and three Gold Medal Sires. The herd is also the only one in the world to have bred three Holstein International Global Cow of the Year winners, most recently Siemers Lstr Hanan 33317-ET EX-91 in 2024.
Though widely known for their success in both commercial and show cattle circles, Siemers Holsteins is also recognized for its progressive facilities, innovative use of reproductive technologies, and marketing impact worldwide. Their cattle have been sold across the U.S. and internationally, influencing genetics on a global scale.
“Innovation, commitment to excellence and major genetic contributors are just a few thoughts that come to mind when thinking of Siemers Holsteins,” says Kevin Jorgensen, Senior Holstein Sire Analyst at Select Sires Inc. and owner of Ke-Jo Holsteins and Sales. “They have bred or developed nearly 1,300 EX cows including four homebred EX-95s, and marketed thousands of cattle globally. Few herds are more deserving of this prestigious honor.”
Family remains central to the operation, with Dan and Janina Siemers and their son Jordan; Paul Siemers and his sons Jake and Josh; and Tyler Schafer forming the core team. The Siemers family has been a steady presence in the dairy community—hosting judging contests, supporting youth programs, serving on boards, and giving back to the industry at every level.
The Siemers family will be formally recognized at the National Dairy Shrine Awards Banquet on Monday, September 29, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin. Their portrait will be added to the National Dairy Shrine Dairy Hall of Fame and Museum in Fort Atkinson. For more information about National Dairy Shrine, the banquet or this year’s award winners, please contact National Dairy Shrine at info@dairyshrine.org or visit their website at www.dairyshrine.org.
