Matt Ruark speaks to the Hub’s advisory council about soil health and dairy systems in August at the Lancaster Agricultural Research Station.
Photo by Nguyen Tran/Dairy Innovation Hub
As we reflect on the past year, it is with immense pride and gratitude that I share with you the progress we have made during fiscal year 2025. This year has been one of significant milestones, deepening collaborations, and research innovations that continue to shape the future of dairy in Wisconsin and beyond.
At the heart of the Dairy Innovation Hub’s mission is the pursuit of sustainable and innovative solutions that address the most pressing challenges in the dairy community. We are driven by our commitment to enhancing productivity, improving environmental stewardship, and fostering economic resilience within dairy. Through our collective efforts, the Hub is not just advancing science; we are also providing tangible outcomes for dairy farmers and their communities.
As the new faculty director, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated faculty, industry leaders, and stakeholders, all united by our shared vision of a strong, sustainable dairy sector. Outside of the Hub, I am a professor and extension specialist in the Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences at UW–Madison, where my research centers on improving nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer management across diverse Wisconsin agroecosystems—including grain, dairy, potato, and vegetable production systems—with the dual goals of enhancing agricultural productivity and protecting water quality.
This year, Hub researchers made strides in several key areas. From advancements in animal health and nutrition to technologies for farm management, the Hub’s research continues to lead the way in optimizing dairy farm efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. Through a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach, researchers are tackling issues such as nutrient management, greenhouse gas reduction, and enhancing milk quality—all with the aim of ensuring the continued success of Wisconsin’s dairy farmers.
A core element of the Hub’s success is our ability to build strong partnerships within the dairy community and beyond. The collaboration between UW-Madison, UW-Platteville and UW-River Falls has proven to be a powerful model for addressing industry challenges from multiple angles. We are also fortunate to work closely with industry stakeholders, including dairy farmers, processors, and policymakers, to ensure that our research is practical and applicable to real-world needs.
This year, our outreach efforts have expanded significantly. Through multiple conferences, field days, and online platforms, we’ve shared Hub-funded research with a broader audience. Engaging directly with farmers allows us to receive valuable feedback, ensuring that our research remains relevant and impactful. Our outreach efforts have also emphasized education, helping the next generation of dairy professionals learn about the innovative tools and strategies being developed.
As we enter fiscal year 2026, we remain committed to strengthening Wisconsin’s dairy community through science, talent development, and collaboration. With your support, the Dairy Innovation Hub will continue driving solutions to today’s challenges and building a more sustainable, innovative future.
On Wisconsin!