Model 800 TMR Vertical Feed Mixer Success Story
After Seven TMR Mixer Demos, Quonset Farms LLP Chose Patz!
Mike Hesselink (right), Quonset Farms, LLP, with Patz dealer Roger Liebergen of L & L Sales and Service, Inc.
Quonset Farms in Oostburg, WI, was the 2006 site of Wisconsin Farm Technology Days, a three-day event that draws thousands of visitors each year. Farming is a tradition for the Hesselink family, whose 6th generation dairy farm was founded in 1847.
Mark Hesselink took over the family farm business from his father in 1971. He and his wife, Barb, have four children: daughter Bobbette and sons Michael, Scott and Ben. Today Quonset Farms, LLP, is a partnership run by Mark, Mike, Ben and Scott and their families. In addition, Jerry Bowling has been working alongside the family for 33 years.
Quonset Farms, LLP, consists of 588 acres and has approximately 800 head of dairy cattle, including milk cows, yearlings and calves. They recently completed a new 500 cow free-stall barn and double 15 parallel milking parlor. An existing shed was converted into a calf facility for approximately 90 calves. Other additions to the farm include a 130' x 60' bunker silo for feed storage and a brand new Patz Model Vertical Mixer.
Earlier this year, the Hesselinks decided to buy a new TMR mixer because they weren't satisfied with the performance of their reel style mixer. Roger Liebergen of L & L Sales & Service, Inc., Kaukauna, WI, spoke with the Hesselinks to discuss their needs and explained the advantages and capabilities of the Patz vertical mixers, including the ability to mix small batches.
The Hesselinks requested on-farm demonstrations of two Patz vertical mixers - the Model 800 Twin Screw and Model 2400 Twin Screw - as well as five other "Brand X" mixers. In addition, they had Penn State Shaker Box tests performed by a nutritionist. 'Seeing is believing' and after all the demos were completed and test results in, Quonset Farms LLP chose the Patz Model 800 Twin Screw Vertical Mixer over the competition.
Mike said there were several reasons why they chose the Model 800 Twin Screw, but mainly they were impressed with the consistent mix quality.
"The #1 reason we bought a Patz mixer was the mix quality," said Mike. "When all the demos were completed, the Patz had the best mix."
Mike stated the other features that caught their attention during the demos, "It has a low loading height of 102 inches, mixes fast, and can mix small batches."
The low profile of the 620 cubic foot mixer allows Mike to back in under his conveyors in the feed room and load high moisture shelled corn and protein mixes, creating a commodity pre-mix. He then blends these ingredients and unloads them onto the bunker floor for addition to the rations later.
As a result of purchasing the Model 800 Twin Screw Vertical Mixer, the Hesselinks are now using the mixer to process homegrown hay - both round bales and square bales. Mike places 2 rounds (1150 lbs each) or 3 big squares (total weigh about 2250 lbs) into the mixer and processes them down. He then unloads them onto the bunker floor to add to individual rations later.
Quonset Farms, LLP, is very happy with the performance of their Patz mixer and the flexibility it offers them. Their Model 800 is customized with two discharge doors - one on the right and one on the left - to allow flexibility in feeding the various groups of cows.
Hosting the 2006 Wisconsin Farm Technology Days was one example of the Hesselink's dedication to promoting the farming tradition. The family has been active as dairy ambassadors in their community for years. Mark received the Sheboygan County Outstanding Young Farmer Award in 1972. The Hesselinks have also received the Southeast Farm Family of the Year Award and have hosted the Sheboygan County Dairy Breakfast. Mike's wife, Christine, shares her enthusiasm by visiting local schools and bringing cheese or milk to promote farming.
As Quonset Farms, LLP, carry on the family tradition, Patz is proud to be their partner in progress.
Seeing is believing! Contact your local Patz dealer for an on-farm vertical mixer demonstration and see for yourself why it pays to buy Patz!