Making your land work for you can be a balancing act. If you are a modern farmer, you want to get the most from your crops. But at the same time, you want to keep the cost of your inputs low. If you are involved in the care of turfgrass and other plants in the landscape, you want them to be healthy throughout the season. Conklin`s nationally-recognized products and technologies are designed to help balance the equation so you know you are using the very best products for successful results.
Proven Technologies
All products have either been developed within the company's own Research and Development Department or have been developed at other institutions. Conklin's exclusive AgroVantage System has been constantly proven through years of field trials and through independent research agencies nationwide.
Conklin's Online Soil System
Meeting soil needs translates to healthier plants. Conklin's AgroVantage Online Soil System is an economic and environmental product recommendation program offering you an opportunity to reduce applied chemicals and fertilizers, lower input costs and obtain optimum results.
Conklin's AgroVantage System is rapidly becoming recognized as the premier recommendation program in the United States available to today' s professional grower, ag chemical and fertilizer dealer, independent consultant, or commercial lawn applicator. Besides featuring state-of-the-art products for plant growth and management, the AgroVantage System utilizes the latest in technology and soil test recommendations through the nation's leading independent laboratory. Once the soil analysis is complete, all data is available at your fingertips via the World Wide Web.
Conklin Success Stories
Moving to the Extraordinary
Jay and Cara Myers
On the surface, Jay Myers appears to be just another average hard-working, Upper Midwest farmer. Farming 2,000 acres of corn and soybeans in the rich black soil near Fargo, he is an active member of both the North Dakota Soybean Growers and Richland County Crop Improvement associations. He sells seed corn for Mycogen® and grows soybean seed for Syngenta® and Pioneer.® He’s planting his 20th crop this spring. Plus, he’s a great husband to wife Cara, who works as a CPA at Microsoft in Fargo, and a proud dad of son Travis, 12, and daughter Abby, 8.
But there’s more than what meets the eye. Faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, Jay is somewhat of a superhero when you look at his Conklin identity. Together with his wife Cara, they became Conklin Directors after four years as Independent Business Operators (IBOs), capturing the coveted 2008 Bob Conklin Award of Excellence at National Convention. This award recognizes the Director or Director couple who demonstrate outstanding leadership and selfless contribution to the entire Conklin organization. By nearly tripling their sales last year from $600,000 to $1.6 million, they also carried away the largest National Convention bonus check of any Directors totaling $46,730.
“Since joining Conklin four years ago, my life has become a whole lot better,” says Jay. “When I’m not out in the fields (roughly from Thanksgiving to April Fools Day), I’m able to expand my Conklin organization. I can continue farming and also build another business for additional income.”
When Jay was first introduced to the Conklin business opportunity, he was impressed that Francis Childs’ continuous world championship yields were achieved with the Conklin AgroVantage® system. Francis Childs was an active AgroVantage promoter and an eight time National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) National Champion who still holds onto the world-record corn yield title. In addition, Jay also found for the first time an agricultural products company that offered superior education and training with a practical approach.
When his schedule allowed him to attend his first Conklin Business Seminar, Conklin’s foundational training for new members where he got to meet the company owners Charles W. and Judy Herbster, he got so excited that he couldn’t sleep that night. He knew then that had to hop on board.
Since Jay started using the full gamut of the AgroVantage System’s products, he has become a regular NCGA state champion for North Dakota, placing first or second in record corn yields.
After five years in the business, Jay is fully capable of leaping over tall buildings in a single bound for many reasons. “There are so many incredible things about Conklin,” says Jay. “Our family is able to experience luxury travel to such exotic places as Cancun and the Caribbean through the Destinations program. We are receiving ever-increasing generous bonus checks. My circle of influence is ever expanding. I’m much more excited about our life now because our days take us beyond farming fields.”
Use of Microbials in the Horse Industry
A healthy and beautiful horse is the pride of every horse owner. Feeding selected cultures of lactic acid-producing bacteria and yeast boosts horse health and performance, according to many owners. Understanding the benefits of direct-fed microbial cultures can help you decide when to use these products during your horse’s life cycle.
In 1908, the Russian biologist Eli Metchnikoff credited the long lives of certain Bulgarian and Russian citizens to the consumption of large amounts of fermented milk products (4). The key organism in these foods was later identified as Lactobacillus acidophilus, a lactic acid-producing bacteria (10). The lactic acid-producing bacteria are so named for their ability to produce lactate. However, lactate production is only one of many benefits derived from this collection of bacteria. The lactic acid-producing bacteria most frequently featured in direct-fed microbial products include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Enterococcus (or Streptococcus) faecium and Lactobacillus lactis.
For many centuries, people have observed that their animals were healthier when fed feedstuffs resulting from yeast fermentation. Yeast are fungi, or one-cell organisms that reproduce by budding, or producing daughter cells. The yeast species most utilized by the direct-fed microbial industry are Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Aspergillus oryzae.
Based on the work of Metchnikoff and others, the idea was developed to directly feed live, lactic acid-producing bacteria and yeast to animals for improving their health and performance. The observed benefits may result from: 1) competition for attachment sites in the digestive tract, 2) competition for essential nutrients, 3) production of antimicrobial substances, 4) increasing the growth of beneficial bacteria and 5) stimulating the immune system (8).
Competition For Attachment Sites In The Digestive Tract
Some disease-causing bacteria reduce an animal’s ability to absorb nutrients by disrupting the small intestine (8). Lactic acid-producing bacteria attach to the lining of the small intestine and produce a substance to prevent disease-causing organisms from binding to the intestinal wall (7). The attachment of the beneficial bacteria may increase the absorptive surface area of the small intestine and enhance enzyme activity for greater nutrient absorption by the animal (8, 11).
Competition for Essential Nutrients
Lactic acid-producing and disease-causing bacteria require certain nutrients for growth. The beneficial bacteria could utilize vitamins, amino acids or other nutrients that might otherwise support the growth of harmful bacteria (5).
Production Of Antimicrobial Substances
The ability of direct-fed microbial cultures to inhibit disease-causing organisms is of considerable interest. Lactic acid lowers the intestinal pH to create an environment unsuitable for harmful organisms (8). Lactic acid-producing bacteria secrete hydrogen peroxide, resulting in conditions unfavorable for oxygen-requiring microorganisms (2). Bacteria produce bacteriocins that restrict the growth of other microorganisms, often genetically related species (8). The lactic acid-producing bacteria have demonstrated the ability to inhibit E. coli, Salmonella typhirium, Staphylococcus aureus and Clostridium perfringens (5). The reduction of scour-causing organisms is especially important in new-born and young animals.
Increasing The Growth Of Beneficial Bacteria
Enhancing the growth of beneficial bacteria boosts the performance of healthy animals. The B-vitamins, enzymes and other factors secreted by lactic acid-producing bacteria and yeast stimulate starch- and fiber-digesting bacteria (3, 5). The ability of yeast to enhance fiber digestion could allow dietary changes (12). The ability of yeast to increase feed intake has been recognized for centuries.
Stimulating The Immune System
Recent advances in animal health indicate the importance of proper immune function. Research indicates that lactic acid-producing bacteria heighten immune function at the digestive tract and whole-system levels (6). Experiments with bacteria-free extracts from lactic acid-producing cultures demonstrate improved macrophage activity against E. coli (9) and Salmonella typhirium (1). The role of direct-fed microbial cultures in stimulating the immune system warrants further research.
The Use Of Direct-fed Microbial Products With Foals
Although foals are born with bacteria-free digestive tracts, the tract is quickly populated by disease-causing and health-promoting bacteria. The question becomes, “Which type of bacteria will dominate?” Providing direct-fed microbial cultures shortly after birth can favor the beneficial bacteria. Studies suggest that lactic acid-producing bacteria inhibit scour-causing microorganisms, and can aid in the absorption of nutrients. Microbial gels and pastes are available for oral delivery to foals, or dry cultures can be mixed with milk replacers.
The Use Of Direct-fed Microbial Products With Growing And Mature Horses
Diet changes and other challenges at weaning can alter a foal’s nutrient intake and health status. Controlling harmful bacteria in the digestive tract during variable feed intake is very important. The microbial gel and paste products can be placed directly in the foal’s mouth, and the owner can confidently know that an animal with low or no feed consumption received the intended microbial dose. Dry products can be mixed with the feed for daily maintenance. Yeast cultures aid in stabilizing the microbial balance in the digestive tract, which may reduce the problems resulting from grain over-consumption and colic. In addition, yeast stimulates fiber-digesting bacteria to increase the energy a horse derives from forages. Consequently, the ration composition could shift in favor of forages over grains, increasing the safety of the horse’s diet. Always consult your veterinarian or nutritionist before making dietary changes.
Breeding, foaling, showing and heavy training can alter feed intake and increase a horse’s susceptibility to disease-causing organisms. Restoring nutrient intake, stabilizing the balance of digestive tract bacteria and proper immune function become critical during these challenging periods. Many horse owners suggest that direct-fed microbial cultures can play a major role during these critical periods. In addition, improving the nutritional status of the horse enhances the hair coat and durability of the hooves. The oral and feed products used for younger horses work equally well with mature horses, although the amount of lactic acid-producing bacteria and yeast should be increased.
Direct-fed Microbial Products And Storage
Direct-fed microbial products are available that feature only lactic acid-bacteria or yeast, and others include bacteria and yeast combinations. Microbial gels and pastes are placed between the lower teeth and cheek of the horse. Certain dry powders are dispersible in milk replacers and liquid feeds. Other dry products are readily mixed in the feed. However, always be sure to purchase reputable products handled properly by the manufacturer and seller. The direct-fed microbial products should be stored in cool, dry locations to maintain their microbial viability.
Feedstuffs resulting from microbial fermentation have benefited animals and their owners for many centuries. Continuing research projects document the need to include direct-fed microbial products in horse management programs. Many horse owners have experienced the benefits of directly feeding live bacteria and yeast to their animals.
References Cited
(1) Hatcher, G.E. and R.S. Lambrecht. 1993. Augmentation of macrophage phagocytic activity by cell-free extracts of selected lactic acid-producing bacteria. J. Dairy Sci. 76:2485.
(2) Klaenhammer, T.R. 1982. Microbiological considerations in selection and preparation of Lactobacillus strains for use as dietary adjuncts. J. Dairy Sci. 65:1339.
(3) Martin, S.A. and D.J. Nisbet. 1992. Effect of direct-fed microbials on rumen microbial fermentation. J. Dairy Sci. 75:1736.
(4) Metchnikoff, E. 1908. Prolongation of Life. G.P. Putnam’s Sons. New York.
(5) Montes, A.J. and D.G. Pugh. 1993. The use of probiotics in food-animal practice. Vet. Med. March 1993:282.
(6) Perdigon, G. et al. 1988. Systemic augmentation of the immune response in mice by feeding fermented milks with Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Immunology 63:17.
(7) Savage, D.C. 1985. Effects on Host Animals of Bacteria Adhering to Epithelial Surfaces. In: Bacterial Adhesion, D.C. Savage and M. Fletcher (eds.); Plenum, NY; pp. 437-463.
(8) Savage, D.C. 1991. Gastrointestinal Microbial Ecology; Possible Modes of Action of Direct-fed Microbials in Animal Production. In: Direct-fed Microbials in Animal Production; National Feed Ingredients Assoc.; Des Moines, IA; pp. 11-81.
(9) Schiffrin, E.J. et al. 1995. Immunomodulation of human blood cells following the ingestion of lactic acid bacteria. J. Dairy Sci. 78:491.
(10) Shahani, K.M. and A.D. Ayebo. 1980. Role of dietary lactobacilli in gastrointestinal microecology. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 33: 2448.
(11) Whitt, D.D. and D.C. Savage. 1981. Influence of indigenous microbiota on amount of protein and activities of alkaline phosphatase and disaccharidases in extracts of intestinal mucosa in mice. Appl. Environ. Micro. 42:513.
(12) Williams, P.E.V. et al. 1991. Effects of the inclusion of yeast culture (Saccharomyces cerevisiae plus growth medium) in the diets of dairy cows on milk yield and forage degradation and fermentation patterns in the rumen of sheep and steers. J. Anim. Sci. 69:3016.
High Quality Lubrication Products
Conklin independent business owners deliver a full line of high quality Lubrication & Vehicle Products to consumers throughout the country. Conklin has been known for over 30 years for high quality lubrication and vehicle products that provide greater reliability and efficiency for all types of vehicles and equipment.
Buddy Myers has been exclusively using Conklin lubricants in his 1970 John Deere 4020 since 1974. Today, the 32-year-old tractor has over 24,000 hours, has never been overhauled and runs on original parts – a great testament to Conklin’s high-quality lubrication and vehicle products.
Conklin motor oils are certified by the American Petroleum Institute as high-quality oils for gasoline and diesel engines. Click here to see verification of Conklin's Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (EOLCS) licenses.
Conklin Success Stories
Growing a Family, Growing a Business
Mark & Kathy Rothermich
Mark Rothermich won the Outstanding Contribution Award for his leadership and guidance with the growing AgroVantage® Lawn and Plant Care program. Known as the “Lawn King,” Mark operates one of the most successful lawn care business models within Conklin’s vast network of Independent Business Owners (IBOs).
Conklin has always meant more to Mark and wife Kathy than just a company supplying superior lawn care products, and providing marketing support and extra income. “Before Conklin, we used to be tied to set hours and schedules on our farm, and were just getting by,” says Mark. “We didn’t realize anything more was available to us to better our lives than just more farming. Conklin expanded our horizons on how we think about life and look at seizing opportunities.”
In their second year with Conklin, Mark and Kathy set a goal: Becoming District Managers, members of the prestigious President’s Club for their sponsoring efforts and qualifying for a Destinations trip to Puerto Rico. With the help and encouragement of various Conklin leaders both within and outside of their organization, including owners Charles W. and Judy Herbster, they achieved all three goals.
“Our life on the farm never before afforded us a family vacation,” says Mark. “It was a fantastic adventure for our young family. More than that, this trip was a major turning point in our lives. We realized that our farming operation alone could not have afforded us the opportunity to travel to other countries, especially when our kids were young.”
Now, with their Conklin lawn care business at full throttle, Mark and Kathy are able to create “fantastic adventures” for their family through the Destinations program. They’ve since added memorable family vacations to Hawaii, Cancun and a Disney Cruise.
Mark and Kathy have also used their Conklin business to provide important life skills and character building for themselves and their children. Just as they learned to set goals for themselves, seize opportunities and maintain a positive attitude on life, so have they passed this on to their children through Conklin. “The influence that our many Conklin friends have had on our family is irreplaceable,” says Mark. “Our horizons have truly grown knowing that we have the ability to make the most of what the world has to offer.”
“Convoy motor oil is the foundation of my Vehicle Maintenance formula. I’ve been using Conklin Vehicle Products exclusively since I bought my Suburban in 1994. With over 569,000 miles (1/08), it still runs and looks like new. From motor oils and fuel conditioners to appearance products, I count on the longevity Conklin products provide.”
All products have either been developed within the company's own Research and Development Department or have been developed at other institutions. Conklin's exclusive AgroVantage System has been constantly proven through years of field trials and through independent research agencies nationwide.
Conklin's AgroVantage System is rapidly becoming recognized as the premier recommendation program in the United States available to today' s professional grower, ag chemical and fertilizer dealer, independent consultant, or commercial lawn applicator. Besides featuring state-of-the-art products for plant growth and management, the AgroVantage System utilizes the latest in technology and soil test recommendations through the nation's leading independent laboratory. Once the soil analysis is complete, all data is available at your fingertips via the World Wide Web.
On the surface, Jay Myers appears to be just another average hard-working, Upper Midwest farmer. Farming 2,000 acres of corn and soybeans in the rich black soil near Fargo, he is an active member of both the North Dakota Soybean Growers and Richland County Crop Improvement associations. He sells seed corn for Mycogen® and grows soybean seed for Syngenta® and Pioneer.® He’s planting his 20th crop this spring. Plus, he’s a great husband to wife Cara, who works as a CPA at Microsoft in Fargo, and a proud dad of son Travis, 12, and daughter Abby, 8.
When Jay was first introduced to the Conklin business opportunity, he was impressed that Francis Childs’ continuous world championship yields were achieved with the Conklin AgroVantage® system. Francis Childs was an active AgroVantage promoter and an eight time National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) National Champion who still holds onto the world-record corn yield title. In addition, Jay also found for the first time an agricultural products company that offered superior education and training with a practical approach.
Conklin independent business owners deliver a full line of high quality Lubrication & Vehicle Products to consumers throughout the country. Conklin has been known for over 30 years for high quality lubrication and vehicle products that provide greater reliability and efficiency for all types of vehicles and equipment.
Buddy Myers has been exclusively using Conklin lubricants in his 1970 John Deere 4020 since 1974. Today, the 32-year-old tractor has over 24,000 hours, has never been overhauled and runs on original parts – a great testament to Conklin’s high-quality lubrication and vehicle products.
Mark Rothermich won the Outstanding Contribution Award for his leadership and guidance with the growing AgroVantage® Lawn and Plant Care program. Known as the “Lawn King,” Mark operates one of the most successful lawn care business models within Conklin’s vast network of Independent Business Owners (IBOs).
“Our life on the farm never before afforded us a family vacation,” says Mark. “It was a fantastic adventure for our young family. More than that, this trip was a major turning point in our lives. We realized that our farming operation alone could not have afforded us the opportunity to travel to other countries, especially when our kids were young.”
