Honest Farming

Wilsonview Dairy: A Legacy of Farming

Farming Heritage

The Josi family, originating from Switzerland, established their farming roots in the Pacific Northwest in 1912. They were drawn to the lush Oregon coastal pastures, which provided an ideal environment for raising dairy cows. Alfred Josi, along with his siblings, emigrated as indentured servants and eventually fulfilled his dream of owning his own farm in 1918. He leased 60 acres of land and joined the Tillamook County Creamery Association, playing a crucial role in the cooperative's growth.

The Family

Today, Wilsonview Dairy is co-owned by Derrick and Kaycee Josi, the 3rd and 4th generations of the Josi family to call it home. Alongside Derrick's parents, Don and Desi, they continue the family legacy with unwavering dedication. Each member has a unique role in the farm's success: Derrick focuses on nutrition programs, Don leads the genetic program, Desi manages the calf program and accounting, and Kaycee contributes to accounting and logistics while raising their children, the 5th generation of Josis.

The Farm

Nestled on the Wilson River, just six miles from the Pacific Ocean, Wilsonview Dairy benefits from a relatively mild climate. With an annual rainfall of over 120 inches, the farm thrives in this environment. The farm consists of a double-12 herringbone parlor, a free stall barn, and open pasture grazing for the cows. Over the years, the Josis have made extensive renovations to improve infrastructure, reduce labor, and enhance the overall welfare of their dairy cows.

The Herd

The dairy herd at Wilsonview Dairy is fully-Jersey and has gained recognition for its exceptional genetic merit. Don and Desi played a significant role in developing one of the most impactful Jersey herds in the country. Derrick, following in his family's footsteps, returned to the farm in 2004 and formed a partnership with his parents. Today, they milk about 35,000 pounds of milk per day, showcasing the farm's commitment to quality and productivity.

Where to Buy Cheese and Dairy Products

Wilsonview Dairy's cows play a vital role in producing delicious cheese and other dairy products. Their milk is delivered to Tillamook County Creamery, a farmer-owned co-op famous for its award-winning cheeses and dairy products. As a member of the co-op, Derrick serves as an alternate director. Tillamook's products, including cheese, ice cream, yogurt, sour cream, and butter, are available nationwide.

Extreme Transparency and Honest Farming

Derrick Josi, the current face of Wilsonview Dairy, is passionate about sharing the farming experience. He has built an online community through TDF Honest Farming, where he offers a window into the world of farming. With a deep-rooted connection to the land and a commitment to sustainability, Derrick and his wife Kaycee are actively involved in their local community and the broader agricultural industry. Impartial and informative, this blog post provides a glimpse into the legacy of Wilsonview Dairy and the dedication of the Josi family to the farming profession.