Wisconsin Producers Won World Forage Titles

Six local farm operations earned top honors at the 2026 World Forage Analysis Superbowl held in Madison.

Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Agriculture

Sunlit stacks of hay inside a rustic wooden barn with dust motes drifting in the light.
Six Wisconsin farm operations earned top honors for high-quality forage production at the 2026 World Forage Analysis Superbowl in Madison. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Six Wisconsin agricultural producers secured division victories at the 2026 World Forage Analysis Superbowl. The competition was held at the World Dairy Expo in Madison.

Why it matters

The competition recognizes excellence in forage production, showcasing the high-quality yields necessary for successful dairy and livestock operations.

The 2026 World Forage Analysis Superbowl awarded nearly $40,000 in total prize money across nine competitive divisions. Six winners hailed from Wisconsin-based agricultural operations.

The players

Steve Nettleman

He is a forage producer from Bangor, Wisconsin, who secured the win in the baleage division.

Comet Creek Hay Company

This agricultural operation based in Wittenberg, Wisconsin, took home the top prize for grass hay.

Andy and Melissa Vine

These producers from Greenwood, Wisconsin, were recognized as winners in the alfalfa haylage division.

Four Cubs Farm

Based in Grantsburg, Wisconsin, this farm operation earned the victory in the mixed grass haylage category.

Paul Keune

A producer from Seymore, Wisconsin, who earned the top award in the first-time entrant category.

The details

Participants were evaluated using standardized laboratory forage analysis and specific scoring criteria. Winners included Steve Nettleman, Comet Creek Hay Company, Andy and Melissa Vine, Four Cubs Farm, Kevin and Rebecca Wilke, and Paul Keune.

Timeline

  1. The 2026 World Forage Analysis Superbowl took place in Madison, Wisconsin.

Market Landscape

The competition occurs as a highlight of the World Dairy Expo, serving as a critical benchmark for the agricultural industry. These awards help producers establish market credibility and highlight regional leadership in feed quality.

Consumers and dairy operators benefit from the increased quality and standardized testing metrics showcased by these award-winning operations. This competition ensures higher nutritional standards for forage products throughout the regional supply chain.

The takeaway

Consistent success in forage analysis reflects rigorous adherence to modern soil management and harvesting techniques. Producers can improve their market standing by participating in standardized scoring competitions to validate their product quality.

Further reading

For more on industry developments, visit the Agriculture section.