Alsum Farms strives for maximum production in both dairy cattle and crops, while minimizing waste and pollution. Our dairy cattle are fed corn, alfalfa, corn silage, and a mixture of ground up soybeans and minerals for additional protein and improved health. We do not use growth hormones on our cows, and antibiotics are only used at the recommendation of a Veterinarian, and then only in accordance with the labeled instructions.

For our crops, we take soil samples on a regular basis, and have them analyzed.  We work with agronomists who help interpret the data.  Using the soil sample data, and recommendations from the University of Wisconsin, our agronomists develop a Nutrient Management Plan that factors in our tillage practices, crop rotation history, and soil nutrient levels. Following this Nutrient Management Plan ensures that we are getting sufficient nutrients across all of our land, and also prevents us from wasting fertilizer by applying too much.

We also use the manure from our cattle as a source of fertilizer.  This natural fertilizer reduces our need for fertilizers produced by artificial means or mined from the ground.  But, just like commercially produced fertilizers, it is important to not over-apply manure.  Over-application could cause excessive amounts to run off the field and into drainage ditches, and eventually into streams and lakes.

Good weed control is also critical to crop production.  We use a combination of tillage and chemical application to control weeds.  Tillage works stubble from previous crops into the soil so it can break down, and also keeps weeds under control until the new crop is planted. Once the crop is planted, usually a single application of chemicals is enough to prevent weeds.

Alsum Farms makes use of the Global Positioning System for fertilizer and chemical application.  GPS uses satellites to feed exact position information to our tractors, and allow us to eliminate overlaps and skips in our application.  This allows us to maximize efficiency and further reduce waste.