Courtesy photo The Steve Brock family of Daggett, shown above, was recently honored with the Michigan’s Veterinary Medical Association Community Service Award. It was presented at the Upper Peninsula State Fair.

ESCANABA — Each year Michigan’s Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) accepts nominations for it’s Community Service Award. This award is conferred upon a non-veterinarian, but animal related organization or individual, whose contributions have significantly benefited society.

The 2019 recipients of the MVMA Community Service Award are the Steve Brock family of Daggett. Brock Family Dairy is a true supporter of Michigan State University, animal agriculture education, and the Upper Peninsula State Fair, especially the Miracle of Life Exhibit. Since the beginning of the Miracle of Life Exhibit at the fair 26 years ago, the Brocks have supplied the exhibit with 150 plus cows to calve in the exhibit. The Brock farm is located 60 plus miles from the fairground. Supplying the exhibit with cows that are ready to give birth is an inconvenience, a potential financial loss, and involves a lot of time and effort on the part of the Brock family.

Steve Brock and his family have supported Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine students throughout the life of the exhibit. They are happy to have the students participate in the calvings and treatment of their cows. Steve always takes time to explain the farms policies and procedures to the students, and to get to know the students each year and offer support and encouragement.

Steve and Becky purchased the farm from Steve’s parents in 1992, along with 150 milking cows. In the early 2000s they expanded the herd and are currently milking 850 cows. The Brocks have three children, Ann, Jacob and Levi, and all three children as well as their families have an active role in the management of the dairy.

Brock Farms supports Michigan Farm Bureau and MSU Extension and participates in crop trials and farm tours, all directed toward improving dairy farming in Michigan as well as public education regarding animal agriculture.