I just got off the phone with Tim. I knew it was a risk calling him. Either he was going to be very happy or very frustrated. Thankfully, he was very happy.
Today, workers are installing a bigger bulk tank in our milk house. The bulk tank is the vat that holds our milk and keeps it cold and safe until the milk truck picks it up. Installing a new bulk tank is not easy. We had to corrdinate an early milk pick up so the tank would be empty. The old tank had to be removed piece by piece and the new one had to be installed piece by piece. Most of these pieces are heavy and it took an extra four strong guys to help with the process. Plumbing and electrical parts had to be properly installed. Everything has to be just right. A properly installed bulk tank is the key to healthy milk.
In 1938, the first bulk tanks were introduced to farms. By the 1950’s milk cans were almost completely replaced. Bulk tanks allow for a safer dairy product because the milk is kept at a constant 38 degrees and is protected from outside elements. In fact, our milk is not exposed to the “outside” environment until you pour it into your glass.
Our old tank held 1,000 gallons and our new one holds 1,500 gallons. Our milk is picked up every other day (there are four milkings in the tank). Our herd size really hasn’t increased, but our cows seem to be healthier, happier and producing a lot more. They were literally over flowing the old tank for the past two weeks.
Old Bulk Tank
Out with Old, in with new Bulk Tank
Installing new bulk tank
Emily
Zweber Farms is a 4th generation family operated organic dairy. We are proud Organic Valley farmer members and sell our milk under that label. We also specialize in sustainably raised beef, pork and chicken and sell it directly to customers in Minnesota.Visit our website to learn more, www.zweberfarms.com. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Pingback: Quora
Pingback: Buy Cat Milk In Bulk