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The Wisconsin Dairy Athlete of the Month sponsored by WisSports.net (WSN) in partnership with Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW) aims to connect consumers with Wisconsin’s dedicated dairy farmers and the youth who grow and raise food for their local communities.  

DFW and WSN are recognizing high school student-athletes who are actively involved on a Wisconsin dairy farm and participate in at least one WIAA-sanctioned varsity sport. Dairy is a vital part of the economy in nearly every Wisconsin county, whether urban or rural. Family-owned farms, dairy processors and dairy-related businesses generate thousands of jobs and millions of dollars of economic activity while contributing to local income and tax revenues.

Nominate a high school athlete for the Wisconsin Dairy Athlete of the Month by clicking here.

Kenzie Nielsen
Lake Mills High School
Class of 2023
Nielsen Family Dairy Farms

Sports: 

Nielsen: I have played basketball all four years at Lake Mills and I have run track the last three. I have been captain my freshman and sophomore year for the JV basketball team, then my junior and senior year I have been captain for the varsity track team. 

How do you balance farm, school and athletics?

Nielsen: In school, I am enrolled in Youth Apprenticeship which gives me time and credit to work on the farm. This has helped me get in extra hours around the farm all while getting credit at school for it. Overall, time management is key to be able to be a successful student-athlete and work on the farm. I use my class time wisely and find extra gaps of time between games/practices to get homework done or ask teachers for help. However, I wouldn't be able to do it all without the support of my family. 

How else are you involved in your local community?

Nielsen: I am highly involved in my community with church, community service, and giving back to my community. I am active in my FFA chapter which gives me many volunteer opportunities within my community. I attend fireman's breakfasts/dinners, volunteer at the Jefferson County Dairy breakfasts, and I attend or donate to local fundraisers. This past January I was chosen to be the student rotarian, so I attended the weekly meetings and learned all about the rotary club and the community members! 

ON THE FARM

What is your farm story and how long have you been involved in the operation?

Nielsen: My family has been farming since 1958 starting with my Great Grandpa and Grandpa Nielsen as partners. This makes me the fourth generation farmer in the family. We have grown into a small dairy farm with 140 milking cows made up of Holsteins, Jerseys, and Brown Swiss’. We currently have approximately 115 young stock as well! We currently operate on 515 acres of land. In addition, we also custom bale and custom combine. 

What is your role on the farm?

Nielsen: On the farm my duties are milking cows, feeding and caring for calves, cleaning equipment (my personal favorite), and helping organize and move cattle. 

Who do you farm with?

Nielsen: I farm with my dad and my sister. 

What is your favorite part of being involved with the farm?

Nielsen: My favorite part of being involved with the farm is how much I have learned, not just about the Ag industry, but the life lessons as well. One life lesson that I have learned from the farm is to work until the job is done, and not when it's time to leave. This lesson will stick with me for the rest of my life and future careers. Another one of my favorite parts being involved with the farms is how close I have gotten with my family. All of the laughs, mistakes, and memories I will always cherish. 

Where does your farm ship its milk?

Nielsen: Dairy Farmers of America (DFA)

What product is your milk turned into?

Nielsen: Milk 

What sustainability practices do you employ on your farm?

Nielsen: Some sustainable practices that we employ on Nielsen Dairy Farms include conservation tillage, no-till, and plant cover crops. We also take part in rotational grazing each season. We take into consideration what is planted in each field every year and rotate between alfalfa, corn, soybeans, oats, winter wheat, and rye. This enhances the yield of the crops and lessens the need for fertilizer. Also, a written explanation for each task on the farm including the milking procedure, operation procedure for each piece of equipment, calf care management and feeding procedure. We also have safety procedures for employees including written procedures, Standard Operating Plans (SOP) management, we ensure that the employees know the SOPs and the task procedure to ensure their safety and overall well-being. 

Please share your most proud moments or farm achievements/awards?

Nielsen: I am proud of all of the awards and achievements I have acquired through FFA. From serving as president, to placing first place at the district Leadership and Development Events (LDEs), all the hard work I have put in during volunteer hours, and being chair to loads of planning committees. Through FFA I have met my best friends and I truly believe this organization has made me the person I am today.

Nominate a high school athlete for the Wisconsin Dairy Athlete of the Month by clicking here.

One athlete will be selected from nominations received each month.  Selected student athletes will be featured on www.wissports.net as well as DFW and WSN social media channels. 

About Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin

Funded by Wisconsin dairy farmers, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin is a non-profit organization that focuses on marketing and promoting Wisconsin's world-class dairy products. For more information, visit our website at wisconsindairy.org.