James Deans - Southland

James contract milks 800 cows alongside his wife and their three children, and more recently have become equity partners. The farm has faced persistent hygiene challenges over the years, with thermoduric grades and alerts being a constant frustration. “We would have flare-ups throughout the year that seemed to settle, only to rear their heads again shortly after. It took up so much time to go through the shed constantly trying to pinpoint a problem we could never find,” James says.

Despite changing chemical providers and thoroughly inspecting the shed, the issue persisted, and James began to think the water quality was to blame. “I had just come to accept it as part of this property,” he admitted.

Looking to automate his teat spray mixing with the Intelliblend system, James contacted his local FIL Area Manager, Matt Jenkins. While switching to FIL teat spray, James also decided to change all his hygiene products to FIL, opting for FIL’s Quantum Red acid, Quantum XL alkali, and C3 chlorine. “If I was going to change my teat spray, I thought I may as well change my detergents too. It was a sharp price, so it was a no-brainer!”

The switch delivered immediate and unexpected results. “Since switching to FIL, we’ve had a grade-free season. It’s crazy – I’ve never been able to achieve that on this property,” James shared. On top of that, he’s noticed better hygiene at a lower cost. “We’re using less detergent and getting better results.”

James is quick to recommend FIL to other farmers experiencing similar issues. “I tell anyone who mentions they’re having hygiene problems to give Matt a call. He’s a great rep, always available, and good for a yarn when he swings by.”

With hopes of achieving a second consecutive grade-free season, James feels hopeful for the future. “If we can go two seasons without a grade, I’ll be stoked. We’ve had a rough spring, and yet our shed stayed clean and our milk quality has been great. We’re on track to achieve it.”