The Holstein Horizon was established in 2022 and recognizes those in the industry who are still involved in breeding outstanding Holsteins but may not be, or are no longer, milking cows.
This year’s honorees were Nick and Jessica Sarbacker of Heritage Holsteins, Whitewater. Both grew up on their family’s farms, Nick at Fischerdale Holsteins and Jessica at Agnew Farms. Twelve years ago they started Heritage Holsteins which quickly became a well-known name in the dairy show world.
Their first purchase was KY-Blue Gw Debbie-ET EX-94, who became the matriarch of their herd and is still around today at 14 years old. Over the years, Nick and Jessica have bred and or owned 18 Excellent and 34 VG cows, and have exhibited numerous All-Wisconsin and Reserve All-Wisconsin winners with having two Junior Champions at the Wisconsin Championship Show. They also enjoy helping others excel in the show ring, selling their best and helping friends achieve lifelong goals.
Marketing cattle is an area where Nick and Jessica excel. Nick is a talented photographer and graphic designer and they started Cattleclub.com, which gives breeders the opportunity to sell embryos and live cattle online.
The couple has also served as mentors to area youth and have both led efforts to organize the District 6 Show. Jessica currently serves as the President of the Rock County Holstein Breeders and Nick donated his talents to host the first Rock County Holstein online fundraiser on CattleClub.com, raising over $4,000 for the group. Nick has also served as a delegate for Wisconsin at the National Holstein Convention.
Today, Nick and Jessica reside outside Whitewater on Jessica’s home farm where they have 35 head of cattle. Jessica works as the Vice President of the Crop Insurance Department for Lake Ridge Bank. Nick assists in operating Agnew Farms with Jessica’s father where they own and run 1000 acres of cash crops. Their two daughters, Madison and Melanie are just starting their story with Registered Holsteins and the future looks bright for this young family.
Nick and Jessica were recently recognized and presented the Holstein Horizon award at the 2023 Wisconsin Holstein Convention in Wisconsin Rapids.
