Jerseys keep Wilsonview Farm on top and on the map

Managing to succeed since 1918

Aerial view of Wilsonview Farms in Tillamook, Oregon, showcasing expansive green pastures, modern dairy barns, and surrounding mountains. — The Coastal Range mountains form the backdrop of this aerial view of the sprawling farmstead along Route 6, with the newest set of freestall barns and milking center towards the rear of the photo.

Editor’s Note: Truth be told, I was too eager to get to the Tillamook Creamery, driving right past the noticeably well-maintained frontage of a modern, progressive dairy farm. Relatively new freestall barns and an adjoining milking center caught my eye. A sign identified the impressive complex as Wilsonview Farms.

As the imposing scenery grew smaller in my rear view mirror, I told myself that I’d catch up with the owners by phone or email when I get home. Little did I know how significant this Jersey Farm actually is, as I continued my journey to Tillamook with only a pasture scene as a reminder.

In hindsight, I should have backed up and meet the owners. Regrettably I didn’t. But I’ve since called and e-mailed to get “their story”. The Josi Family operates a sizeable, top-notch Jersey dairy and the information that they share is inspiring and assuring, regardless of where you’re located or what breed of cows is in your barn. Please read on and enjoy.

By DIETER KRIEG

Farmshine Editor

TILLAMOOK, Ore. — Wilsonview Farms is obviously in good hands, considering that the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) bestowed two of their most prestigious prizes on the Josi Family in 2020.

Parents Don and Desi were honored with the Master Breeder Award that year while their son Derrick and his wife, Kaycee were among five couples to receive the Young Jersey Breeder Award. The latter recognition is bestowed on Jersey enthusiasts under 40 years of age.

Respectively, Don & Desi and Derrick & Kaycee represent the third and fourth generations to operate the farm, which was founded in 1918 by Don’s grandfather, Alfred, an immigrant from Switzerland. Indentured to pay for his passage to America’s West Coast, Alfred spent six years making cheese at local creameries. In time, he rose to become a director of the up-and-coming Tillamook County Creamery Association.

A Tillamook Cheese News clipping from July of 1962 quoted Albert as saying: “Our Tillamook County Creamery Association is one of the best anywhere — and we want to keep it that way!

Needless to say, they have.

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