Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are people talking about Rosendale Dairy?
A: Rosendale Dairy is one of several large farms currently under development in rural areas of Wisconsin. While it is possible for both small and large farms to operate successfully, the Rosendale Dairy business model involves carefully managed, larger herds. We believe this is the most efficient way to operate because it provides economies of scale to invest in state-of-the-art environmental systems as well as computer information technology that allows us to best manage the health of our cows.

The partners of Rosendale Dairy have 15 years of farming knowledge, but people who are not familiar with the technological changes in the dairy business may not recognize the environmental benefits of operating large farms under the carefully controlled parameters that define our industry today.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ process for issuing the required Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System wastewater permit provides an opportunity for community members to get more information and participate in the public hearing process. Rosendale Dairy welcomes public comment on its plans and is eager for the DNR to schedule its hearing.

Q: How do Rosendale Dairy’s neighbors feel about this development?
A: Rosendale Dairy has the support of many of our neighbors, numerous Fond du Lac County residents and regional businesses. Local community members, businesses and farms recognize the benefit of the $40 million worth of goods and services we will be purchasing each year. Our rural location allows us to contract with surrounding farms both for purchases of high-quality feed and for distribution of the natural fertilizer products we will produce. 

Local business and community leaders recognize that our $70 million investment will not only create needed jobs for educated and skilled workers, but reinforce property values and contribute to the image of our region as a desirable place to live and work.

Unfortunately, some outspoken county residents have engaged with a Madison-based issue advocacy organization in an attempt to generate negative publicity about our plans by providing inaccurate information about our farm, and derail the Department of Natural Resources’ public hearing and permit process. As a result, we are reaching out to key public officials and members of the news media in an attempt to share accurate information about our project.

Q: Well, how do you respond to criticisms that large farms like this are bad for the animals? And bad for the environment?
A: It’s no secret that healthy cows produce more high-quality milk. It’s also no secret that modern dairy farms require major investments in technology, worker training, environmental planning and infrastructure to maximize herd health and profitability.

Farms like Rosendale Dairy keep extensive breeding and health records about individual animals. Modern free-stall barns are designed for cow comfort so that the animals can move around at will and eat or drink when they choose. At Rosendale Dairy we use natural sand bedding that not only ensures comfort and hoof health but helps mitigate odors.