For more than 85 years, Walnutdale Farms in Wayland, Michigan (US), has continued to grow. Today, the fourth-generation family farm manages 3,500 dairy cows across two locations, while also raising approximately 2,500–3,000 replacement heifers and finishing all dairy and beef cross calves. As the herd expanded, the feeding process had to become more efficient to keep pace with the operation.
We spoke with Aubrey van Laan of Walnutdale Farms. Every day, the entire herd is fed using a Trioliet Solomix 2 3200 stationary feed mixer equipped with a Pro XL conveyor chain.
Saving six hours of feeding time, every single day
Faster feeding, more time for what matters
Before installing the Trioliet system, feeding was a time-consuming process involving mixer trucks, loaders and long transport distances. Feeding started around 1:00 a.m. and often continued until well into the afternoon. With the Trioliet feeding system, feed is prepared continuously while delivery trucks arrive, unload and return for the next load. This streamlined workflow has reduced the feeding window dramatically—from an all-day operation to a process completed by around 11:00 a.m. The Trioliet stationary mixer saves the farm approximately six hours of feeding time every day, significantly improving feeding efficiency and reducing labour requirements.
Greater efficiency throughout the operation
By keeping the mixing process running continuously, Walnutdale Farms has increased productivity while reducing unnecessary downtime. The shorter feeding schedule not only saves valuable labour hours but also improves the overall efficiency of the dairy operation.
Lower fuel costs and less wear
A more efficient feeding routine means fewer truck hours, lower fuel consumption and reduced wear on equipment. At the same time, feed is delivered to every pen on schedule, creating a more predictable daily routine throughout the farm.
Consistent feeding supports better cow performance Delivering fresh feed at the right time every day has created a more consistent feeding schedule for the herd. This has contributed to improved milk production while allowing staff to focus more attention on animal care.
Significantly improving feeding efficiency and reducing labour requirements
Expert support from day one
Introducing a new feeding system always involves a learning curve. Throughout the installation and start-up phase, Trioliet's specialists provided hands-on guidance, practical advice and daily support whenever questions arose. This close cooperation ensured a smooth transition and helped the farm quickly gain confidence with the new system.
Modern technology with remote access
The Trioliet system also offers complete remote accessibility. Farm managers can monitor and adjust the system from virtually anywhere, while Trioliet's support team in the Netherlands can securely access the installation when assistance is required. This combination of modern technology and expert support ensures the operation is never left on its own.
The strongest benefits are:
- Significantly faster feeding
- Greater operational efficiency
- Lower fuel and operating costs
- Consistent feeding improves herd performance
- Reliable support and smooth implementation
- Remote access and full system control