Proactive, Not Reactive: How Hornstead Dairy Uses Technology to Stay Ahead
Why steady adoption of technology has reshaped cow care and management at a multigenerational Wisconsin dairy
Brian Horn of Hornstead Dairy in Brillion, Wisconsin, has watched dairy technology evolve dramatically over the course of his career. In a conversation with Uplevel Dairy host Peggy Coffeen, he reflected on how Hornstead has approached new tools cautiously but intentionally, using technology to become more proactive rather than reactive in daily decision making.
Early Recordkeeping Laid the Groundwork for Technology Adoption
Hornstead Dairy’s first technology tools were basic. Brian recalled relying on paper breeding sheets, barn charts and early herd management software to track dry offs, calvings and pregnancy checks. “You kept notes, basically,” he said, describing an era when decision making depended on handwritten records and manual data entry.
A Willingness to Try New Tools Shaped Progress
Over the years, the dairy experimented with multiple technologies, including early milk meters, temperature monitoring and feeding systems. Some ideas worked, others did not. “Not all technology is great,” Brian said. “Not all my ideas ever panned out either.” He emphasized the importance of letting people test ideas while understanding that failure is part of progress.
Internal Monitoring Shifted the Operation to Proactive Care
Hornstead’s adoption of internal monitoring boluses with smaXtec marked a major turning point. The technology collects rumination, activity, temperature, water intake and pH data without requiring employees to physically handle cows each day.
“I think they were finding things proactively instead of reactively.”
He noted that fewer manual checks reduced cow handling while giving staff earlier insight into potential issues.
Better Data Improved Labor Flexibility and Quality of Life
Access to real-time data has changed how people work at Hornstead. Brian explained that alerts allow family members and employees to respond quickly even when they are not physically in the barn. “It gives you a little peace of mind,” he said. The system helps staff focus their time where it matters most rather than reacting to problems after they escalate.
Supporting the Next Generation Requires Trust and Perspective
As younger family members take on larger roles, Brian believes technology can support both cows and people. He encourages peers to listen when the next generation brings new ideas forward. “It’s got to at least make a little bit of sense what they’re trying to accomplish,” he said, adding that leaders must allow room for decision-making and learning.
Hornstead’s experience shows how thoughtful adoption of technology can help dairies manage growth, support people and stay ahead without losing sight of fundamentals.
Hear the full conversation with Brian Horn on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and watch episode 295 below.
