Milk Producer April 2016 | Page 20

DFC PROMOTION [ DAIRY RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM Promoting progress to profit the Canadian dairy industry he Dairy Research Symposium wrapped up Dairy Farmers of Canada’s annual Dairy Policy Conference this year. Scientists from across Canada presented some of the latest research developments in dairy production, genetics, genomic, and human nutrition and health at the all-day event. It was hosted by the DFC-led Dairy Research Cluster in February and was open to industry stakeholders. Presentations focused on whether sustainability and profitability can both be achieved simultaneously, advances in animal health welfare, breeding for the next generation of cows to providing new insights on how dairy products play a role in human health. The symposium also highlighted the importance of research contributions to various DFC programs, including the development of science-based best practices in support of the proAction initiative and nutrition communications activities. More than 200 individuals, including farmer representatives from across Canada, participated in the event on location and via live webcast. T RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM focused on sustainability and profitability, as well as advances in animal health welfare and breeding for the next generation of cows. DFC SUPPORTS YOUNG FARMERS D airy Farmers of Canada sponsored Canadian Young Farmers Forum’s (CYFF) national conference and general members meeting in Vancouver, B.C. in February. CYFF connects leading young agriculture producers from across Canada and supports, encourages and provides resources to promote the agricultural sector. DFC sponsored a wine and cheese at the event. It featured various Canadian Cheese Grand Prix winners. Fuelling Women Champions Ambassador Desiree Scott was also offered the opportunity to speak to attendees. Young farmers are key to the revitalization and growth of the industry. As the average age of farmers is increasing (from 48 to 52 between 1996 and 2006), the sector’s capacity to attract and retain young farmers is of paramount importance. STAY INFORMED WITH THE DAIRY EXPRESS Sign up now for Dairy Express, Dairy Farmers of Canada’s bi-monthly newsletter. Email chantal.marcotte@ dfc-plc.ca to have your name added to the mailing list. 20 APRIL 2016 | MILKPRODUCER DFC brings you the latest national marketing and nutrition news with this feature. Learn more about the programs and activities we carry out to get the most from your promotion dollar. We welcome your comments, so write or fax us at: DFC, c/o manager, member relations and internal communications 1801 McGill College Ave., Ste. 700, Montreal, QC H3A 2N4 Fax: 514 284-0449 or Email: [email protected] WWW.MILKPRODUCER.CA