Caballero Dairy – Eloy, AZ
Innovative Comfort and Efficiency: KRAIBURG Mats at Caballero Dairy
Located just outside of Eloy, Arizona, Caballero Dairy has grown from its modest beginnings in 1957 with just 27 cows, to a sophisticated operation led by second-generation farmer Craig Caballero. Today, the farm manages a large herd of 5,500 cows, each benefiting from carefully optimized schedules and advanced facility improvements. KRAIBURG milking parlor mats (KURA) and cattle traction mats (MONTA) have played a significant role in transforming daily operations at Caballero Dairy, greatly enhancing cow comfort and operational efficiency.
The Evolution of Caballero Dairy
From its humble beginnings, Caballero Dairy has evolved into a state-of-the-art operation. The farm recently undertook a significant upgrade to its facilities, culminating in February 2024. The project included revamping a decade-old 72-stall rotary milking parlor deck. They replaced the aging brick pavers with high-grade KRAIBURG KURA milking parlor mats in the holding area and KRAIBURG MONTA cattle traction mats on the entrance of the rotary. This move not only improved the longevity of the infrastructure but also the comfort and well-being of the dairy cows.
Nestled within the evolution of Caballero Dairy lies its unique herd management approach. A distinctive blend of Jersey and Holstein breeds sets this dairy apart. With approximately 10% of the herd comprised of Jerseys, Caballero Dairy strategically aims to enhance the milk's components. Operating on a modified milking schedule of 3 times a day for some cows and 2 times a day for others, totaling 5500 cows, this dairy maximizes efficiency through innovation. The heart of their operation lies in a meticulously orchestrated milking process facilitated by a 72-stall rotary system. Each cow is equipped with activity collars, allowing for precise management and monitoring. Utilizing stall gates, Caballero Dairy meticulously oversees breeding and palpation work, leveraging technology to streamline operations and ensure the well-being of their herd.
We had an opportunity to interview Richard Greaves (pictured above), one of the farm's diligent dairy managers at Caballero Dairy. Richard has been working in dairy operations in Arizona for 25 years and has now been working at Caballero Dairy for the last 14 months.
Richard has witnessed firsthand the positive impact of these mats. "The implementation of the KRAIBURG mats on our rotary and holding areas was driven by the need to extend the life of our infrastructure while improving comfort for our herd. This has been a good safety measure and has already shown benefits in just a month," he shared.
The implementation of the KRAIBURG mats on our rotary and holding areas was driven by the need to extend the life of our infrastructure while improving comfort for our herd. This has been a good safety measure and has already shown benefits in just a month.
Richard Greaves on KRAIBURG Kura and Monta mats
Implementation of KRAIBURG Mats
Ismael Jimenez, Service Supervisor/ Equipment Sales from United Dairymen of Arizona (UDA) Photo: Nick Sarbacker of CattleClub.com | Photo edit: vPaulTech LLC
The decision to install KRAIBURG mats, supplied by Agromatic, marked a pivotal enhancement in the farm’s operation. As explained by Ismael Jimenez, Service Supervisor/ Equipment Sales from United Dairymen of Arizona (UDA) who has collaborated with Caballero Dairy for 28 years, "We recently put in some KRAIBURG mats at a couple of farms on the deck and the entrance gate. The holding pen now has these mats because they protect the new brick and provide more comfort for the cows."
Partnership with United Dairymen of Arizona
The cooperation with UDA is crucial for Caballero Dairy's success. The co-op manages the allocation of milk production, providing a vital outlet for the dairy's output. "The co-op is an essential part of doing business in Arizona. Without it, it would be challenging for dairy owners to work with various handlers and processors," explained Richard Greaves.
Beyond the essential role UDA plays in managing milk production and distribution, this partnership extends into critical areas such as sustainability initiatives and community engagement. UDA's commitment to environmental stewardship aligns with Caballero Dairy's efforts to maintain eco-friendly practices, providing resources and support that help minimize the environmental impact of dairy operations. Additionally, through UDA, Caballero Dairy engages in community outreach programs that educate the public about sustainable farming practices and the nutritional benefits of dairy. This relationship not only ensures the smooth handling of daily production needs but also fortifies Caballero Dairy's commitment to a sustainable and community-focused business model.
More about United Dairymen of Arizona (UDA)
United Dairymen of Arizona (UDA) is a cooperative owned by local dairy families, committed to delivering high-quality dairy products since its founding in 1960. As a full-service dairy cooperative based in Arizona, UDA merges state-of-the-art processing facilities with traditional family farming values. Their operations, upheld by rigorous certification standards such as the Safe Quality Food Institute’s program, emphasize environmental stewardship, community involvement, and animal care. UDA stands dedicated to continuous improvement and sustainability, ensuring their milk—sourced exclusively from Arizona cows on family-run farms—meets the highest quality standards. Joining UDA means becoming part of a family that values progress and collective success, enhancing both the community and the dairy industry at large.
Click here to view the United Dairymen of Arizona's website.
We recently put in some KRAIBURG mats at a couple of farms on the deck and the entrance gate. The holding pen now has these mats because they protect the new brick and provide more comfort for the cows.
Ismael Jimenez on KRAIBURG Kura and Monta mats
Challenges and Innovations
Operating in Arizona's extreme climate, Caballero Dairy faces temperatures that soar into the 100s during the summer months, presenting significant challenges in managing cattle comfort and health. The farm employs innovative Saudi-style barns, which feature extensive shading to protect the cows from the intense sun. These designs were first developed in Saudi Arabia and have been adapted to suit the local Arizona environment, providing a much-needed respite for the dairy herd.
A noteworthy innovation at Caballero Dairy is the use of sort gates, which efficiently manage the herd by separating cows in heat. This system has proven essential, especially during the challenging high-temperature months. "The sort gate system has been one of our biggest accomplishments. It operates much more efficiently now than when it was first installed," remarked Richard Greaves.
Moving Forward: The Future of Caballero Dairy and Agromatic Innovation
Caballero Dairy is a prime example of how traditional farming and modern technology can merge to create a highly productive operation. The addition of KRAIBURG mats by Agromatic represents a significant step forward in enhancing the farm’s infrastructure and the well-being of its cows. This enhancement not only improves the daily operations at Caballero Dairy but also marks a significant improvement in animal comfort, leading to better overall farm performance.
This project is a clear demonstration of Agromatic’s dedication to innovative, practical solutions that support both the efficiency of dairy operations and the health of the animals. As Caballero Dairy moves forward, it continues to set new standards for excellence in the dairy industry, proving that smart investments in technology lead to lasting benefits. With strong partnerships and a commitment to continuous improvement, Caballero Dairy is poised to remain a leader in the field, shaping the future of dairy farming with every step.
Caballero Dairy Media
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Kurt Loehr: Agromatic Sales Representative for California
Kurt Loehr is an experienced Cow Comfort Consultant. In his role at Agromatic, Kurt applies his firsthand experience with cow comfort solutions for the benefit of other dairymen, aiming to enhance dairy profitability through improved cow welfare. Additionally, he services Caballero Dairy and California, bringing his deep passion for dairy farming to the forefront of his sales and consultancy work.
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Featured Cow Comfort Products from this Installation
Milking Parlor Mats
Cattle Traction Mats