The Van Tassel family moved to Missouri from Pennsylvania in 2004 with nine Jersey heifers that were their children’s 4-H projects. Today, they have over 50 registered Jerseys with a few registered Ayrshires mixed in the herd. Located two miles south of Cabool, Mo., the Van Tassel’s are relatively new to the Ozarks, but they are experienced Jersey dairymen. They started milking Jerseys in 1983 and have been known as Maranatha Farms since then.
When asked why Jerseys were their breed of choice, Ernest said, “At that time we felt we could get more genetics for our money.” He continued, “They are a very efficient breed, cost less to feed, have higher butterfat and protein content, therefore, you receive a higher income ratio.” According to the Van Tassels, Jerseys can take the summer heat better than most dairy breeds and are more aggressive grazers. They especially like the fact that Jerseys produce over a long period of time, sometimes, over 12 years. They have fewer calving problems and cows will recycle within two weeks after giving birth. Kimberly said, “We really like their temperament. They have a highly developed nervous system and will react according to the treatment they are given.”
The Van Tassels sell their milk through Central Equity Milk Co-op, which is a milk company predominately for Jersey producers. They receive a protein premium for their milk.
Cows are fed bulk feed of 17 percent protein in winter with mostly Brome and Alfalfa free choice hay. In the summer they get 13 percent feed and moved regularly to fresh pasture using rotational grazing.
The Van Tassel’s are constantly improving their herd and production by AI and use on the ground bulls for cleanup.
In January 2005 Ernest and Kimberly bought 21 head of milk goats with the intention of feeding the calves from their dairy herd the goat milk. The Alpines and Lamacha are all registered through the American Dairy Goat Association. They are not only good milking goats, but definitely, had show potential from excellent bloodlines.
Rebecca Van Tassel has taken an interest in the goat herd and has made it her goal to produce good seedstock for breeders as well as show quality animals. Breeding stock is carefully selected from nationally known bloodlines.
The Van Tassel’s are very diligent in keeping the herd healthy. The herd consists of 30 does, 10 two year olds, and 20 yearlings. After freshening the does are wormed with ValBazen which takes care of a broad spectrum of parasites including tapeworm. They also trim their hooves at this time. The herd is dewormed as needed during the summer. Free choice minerals are available, the same as for cows, along with Safe Guard occasionally in three day increments.
In addition to modern methods of parasite control, Kimberly said, “We add herbs and spices to the free choice minerals as a natural way of controlling this problem.” They believe nature’s way is best if possible.
Whether you are looking for a start in the Jersey dairy business or milk goat production the Van Tassel family can supply quality seedstock.
