The World Dairy Expo was extra special this year. We came to Madison, as we always do, supplied with the latest studies and field trial data showing the multiple ways Diamond V Original Product impacts dairy cow health and production. But this time, things were a bit different. We now had in hand FDA-accepted validation that Diamond V Original Product "helps support DMI of dairy cows when fed as part of a total mixed ration during the first 70 days of lactation." And we thank all who visited us in Madison to learn more about this DMI claim.

The FDA-accepted claim is big, no doubt. Yet it is part of a bigger picture, as illustrated in the Producer Spotlight article in this issue of DairyAdvisor. That piece tells the story of a Sturgeon Bay, WI family whose dairy operation has grown nicely after a fire years ago compelled them to adopt a new direction. They turned adversity into new opportunity, and are succeeding very well. Diamond V has been with them in this journey, helping organize team training, conducting TMR audits, and other services.

What does this have to do with the FDA claim on DMI? It illustrates the idea that constantly doing all you can to improve and succeed can pay dividends. The FDA claim didn't just happen overnight. It is the culmination of years--decades--of investment in research, energy, time and talent to build the Diamond V efficacy story. And with the Wisconsin farm, that same scenario also plays out: Years of building, investing, partnering and just plain working hard are paying off for the Schmidt family. I'm sure that will continue for them over the long term. The same long-term service value we strive to give to our customers will continue at Diamond V as well.