IMLER, Pa. — The Snider Family’s Singing Brook Farms, a third-generation dairy operation near Imler, has been named a National Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Award winner. They earned the recognition for their exceptional commitment to animal care, food safety and continuous improvement in cattle management.
Presented by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the National BQA Awards honors producers nationwide for outstanding stewardship, leadership, and adherence to science-based best practices. Singing Brook Farms was selected in the Dairy Farm category, representing Pennsylvania on the national stage.
Founded in 1951 by Obie and Marianne Snider, Singing Brook Farms has grown into a multi-generational operation, now managed by Ross Snider and his sister, Greta Halahan, who plays a key leadership role in the dairy enterprise. Ross and Greta represent the third generation of their family’s involvement in the business, having partnered with their father, Bruce Snider, until his recent passing. The farm team now manages approximately 300 milking cows, 250 replacement heifers, and dairy-beef feeders. They farm approximately 3000 acres.
Singing Brook Farms actively participates in both the BQA and FARM (Farmers Assuring Responsible Management) programs, embedding these standards into daily operations. From detailed digital record keeping and rigorous biosecurity protocols to low-stress animal handling and data-driven decision-making, the owner-managers have built a system focused on continuous improvement and animal well-being.
“Singing Brook Farms exemplifies the Beef Quality Assurance program’s values of accountability, transparency, and a deep commitment to doing what’s right for animals and consumers,” said Hannah Walters, director of Producer Education and Engagement for the Pennsylvania Beef Council. “Their attention to detail, investment in employee training, and willingness to lead by example make them truly deserving of this national honor.”
The operation places strong emphasis on calf care and herd health, implementing comprehensive colostrum protocols, nutrition programs, and preventative health strategies. As a result, the farm has seen measurable improvements in calf health, reduced treatment rates, lower somatic cell counts, and increased milk production, outcomes that reflect the effectiveness of BQA-aligned management practices.
A commitment to animal well-being and responsible husbandry is deeply rooted at Singing Brook Farms, where generations of the Snider family have prioritized animal care since 1951.
“It is an honor for the team at Singing Brook Farms to be recognized among the very best at a national level for their dedication to putting animal care at the forefront,” said Halahan. “Dairy cows and the Snider family have worked side by side at Singing Brook since 1951. I’m so proud to walk alongside generations of cow families that my father, Bruce, and grandfather, Obie, cared for. It is a testament to the quality of care our team provides each day, and we are incredibly proud.”
Halahan emphasized that stewardship is not just a goal, but a daily responsibility. “Stewardship is at the very heart of the BQA and FARM programs,” she added. “These programs provide guidelines as we fine-tune protocols that put cows first. When the cows come first, it is a win for everyone: the cow, the farmer, and the consumer.”
Beyond on-farm excellence, Singing Brook Farms is recognized for its leadership in advocacy and education. The farm regularly hosts on-farm tours for producers, students, legislators, and consumers, offering transparency into modern dairy and beef production. Halahan also serves on the Pennsylvania BQA Advisory Commission, helping guide statewide education and outreach efforts.
Further, Singing Brook Farms is an active supporter of the PA Beef to PA Schools program, donating beef to local school districts and participating in school activation days to help students understand where their food comes from and how it’s responsibly produced.
“This award reflects years of dedication by the entire Singing Brook Farms team,” Walters added. “Their work strengthens consumer confidence and showcases the very best of Pennsylvania agriculture.”