CentralStar Cooperative DHI
By CentralStar Cooperative
Last reviewed: December 2025
Complete guide to CentralStar Cooperative DHI services for Michigan and Wisconsin dairy producers. Learn about testing programs, pricing, AI services, and...
CentralStar Cooperative serves dairy producers across Michigan and Wisconsin with integrated DHI testing and genetic services. As a producer-owned cooperative, CentralStar returns value to its members while providing comprehensive herd improvement programs.
The organization operates from locations in Grand Ledge, Michigan (800-836-8114) and Kaukauna, Wisconsin (920-773-6598), ensuring local presence and responsive service across the upper Midwest. Certified DHI Specialists visit farms on regular schedules for sample collection and milk weight recording.
CentralStar's testing programs offer flexibility to match farm needs. Full-service testing includes technician-collected samples and weights. Owner-sampler programs allow farm staff to collect samples while technicians handle pickup and delivery. A unique feature: owner-sampler programs can test 1, 2, or 3 milkings at no additional charge, providing more accurate production estimates.
Beyond basic DHI testing, CentralStar offers comprehensive health monitoring including SCC analysis, BHBA for ketosis detection, and milk pregnancy testing. The organization also provides AI services and genetic consulting, enabling producers to use DHI production data for informed sire selection and breeding decisions.
Key Features
- DHI Specialist Field Service: Certified technicians collect samples and record weights on-farm. Regular monthly visits. Equipment calibration and status updates included.
- Owner-Sampler Multi-Milking Option: Test 1, 2, or 3 milkings at no additional charge. Farm collects samples; technician handles pickup. More accurate production estimates.
- Component Analysis: Butterfat, protein, and SCC analysis. MUN (Milk Urea Nitrogen) for nutrition monitoring. Lactose and SNF testing available.
- BHBA Ketosis Testing: Beta-hydroxybutyrate analysis from milk samples. Early detection of subclinical ketosis in fresh cows.
- Milk Pregnancy Testing: Non-invasive pregnancy confirmation from milk samples. Results with regular DHI reports. Reduces cow handling.
- AI & Genetic Services: Integrated artificial insemination services. Sire selection consulting based on production records. One-stop herd improvement.
Advanced Features
- DRMS Processing Integration: Test data processed through DRMS for official lactation records. Data flows to CDCB and breed associations. DART software compatibility.
- Robot/AMS Testing Programs: Compatible with Lely, DeLaval, and other robotic systems. Sampling shuttles for automated collection. Flexible pickup schedules.
- Disease Testing: Johne's, BVD, and other disease testing available. Individual animal or herd screening. Partner laboratory network.
- Benchmarking Reports: Compare herd performance to regional and national averages. Identify improvement opportunities. Track progress over time.
- Breeding Consulting: Use DHI production and health data for sire selection. Genetic program planning. Mating recommendations.
- Educational Programs: Producer meetings and workshops. Partnership with MSU and UW Extension. Continuing education opportunities.
Ideal For
Farm Types: Conventional dairy, Organic dairy, Grazing operations, Robot dairies
Competitive Advantages
What sets CentralStar Cooperative DHI apart from alternatives:
- Producer-owned cooperative structure returns value to members
- Integrated DHI and AI/genetic services
- Owner-sampler: test 1, 2, or 3 milkings at no extra charge
- Local presence in Michigan and Wisconsin
- Robot/AMS testing programs for all major systems
- DRMS processing for official lactation records
- Combination of milk recording and breeding services
- University partnerships (MSU, UW) for research and education
- Responsive field service with local technicians
- Comprehensive health monitoring options
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for CentralStar Cooperative DHI:
DHI testing and laboratory services for dairy performance management.
Pricing Model: Per-cow testing fees plus optional services
Volume discounts for larger herds. Contact local DHI affiliate for exact pricing in your area.
Pros & Considerations
- Regional DHI expertise
- Laboratory services included
- Strong Midwest presence
- Member support
- Cooperative structure
- Regional focus
- Testing costs
- Schedule coordination
- Data interpretation support varies
Implementation & Setup
How to implement CentralStar Cooperative DHI on your dairy operation:
Implementation Timeline: Setup: 1-2 weeks; First test: within 30 days of enrollment
Training & Support
Training and support options available for CentralStar Cooperative DHI:
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating CentralStar Cooperative DHI:
- Which CentralStar location is closest to my farm?
- Would owner-sampler or full-service better fit my operation?
- Should we integrate AI services with DHI testing?
- How can we use production data for breeding decisions?
- Which add-on tests (BHBA, pregnancy) would be valuable?