MADISON, Wis. – Clark Woodmansee III of Preston, Conn., is the 83rd recipient of the coveted Klussendorf Award, the highest recognition given to a dairy cattle showman in the United States. He received it during the 58th World Dairy Expo.
Clark is one of the most influential Holstein breeders in the U.S. From the point of him buying his farm over 50 years ago to his promotional sale this past June, this New England dairyman has been involved with some of the greatest cows of the Holstein breed, including his own. He has bred nine 94-point cows and has been involved with a dozen cows that were scored EX-95 or higher.
Clark caught the show bug in the early 1990s with Lo-Pine Jet Biana who earned Reserve All-American honors. In the ensuing years, more All-American nominations came his way.
One of Clark’s favorites is none other than Hazels Goldwyn Hatty who was twice named grand champion at the Northeast Fall National Holstein Show and won the coveted best bred and owned award at the 2019 World Dairy Expo. The prize is considered one of the greatest achievements for a dairy cattle breeder.
Clark partnered with others to purchase Quality-Ridge Stomi Hazel who is Hatty’s dam. Hazel became one of the world’s favorite show cows being nominated for All American each of seven years in milking form. She has multiple EX-95 daughters and granddaughters and has had the biggest impact on the Woodmansee herd of any animal.
Clark also partnered on acquiring Dubeau Dundee Hezbollah (EX-92) and had considerable success developing her daughters. Hez currently has over 40 Excellent daughters, many bred by Woodmansee. Additionally, Clark owned and helped develop the 2017 World Dairy Expo Grand Champion and Supreme Champion, Rosiers Blexy Goldwyn-ET.
While his accomplishments with cattle are numerous, Clark may be best known as one of the true “gentlemen” of the business. He is a mentor, friend and steward of both cattle and land. He has impacted many young people and breeders over the past 50 years.
The Klussendorf Award was developed to recognize those who exemplify a person with great character, sportsmanship, and dedication to dairy cattle shows. The award is given in memory of Arthur B. Klussendorf, considered the outstanding showman of his time and a model for all those who have followed him.
