Peter Vail grew up on a commercial dairy farm in eastern New York. After graduating from Cornell University, he purchased a small herd of quality Brown Swiss, which was dispersed in 1964. At that time, he started the vastly successful Caro-Vail Fertilizer Company, which is still in the family – now run by the third generation.
When Vail navigated back into dairy cattle, it was in incredible comeback. He has invested millions of dollars into the business and helped develop cattle of most every breed, particularly Brown Swiss, Ayrshire and Milking Shorthorn. Through his partnership with Ken Main, the Elite Dairy/Cutting Edge show program is one of the most successful in the industry, with five different World Dairy Expo Grand Champions. The 2018 supreme champion, Cutting Edge T Delilah, was their hallmark cow, who became the all-time high selling Brown Swiss cow at $210,000.
“Peter has literally changed the game for investing in great cattle,” says Tim Abbott of Showbox Sires. “His standard of success both in the show ring, breeding world and financial success of his investment strategy are unmatched and set the standard in the business.”
Vail will celebrate 65 years of marriage to Lyn this June. They have two children: Peter Jr. and Lauren, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. “His legacy will be one of generosity, passion and vision for both the feed and fertilizer business and cattle breeding world,” Abbott adds.
Peter Vail will receive the Pioneer award at National Dairy Shrine’s Awards Banquet on Monday, September 30 in Madison, Wisconsin. Peter Vail's portrait will be displayed in National Dairy Shrine’s Dairy Hall of Fame and Museum in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin.
Dairy Agenda Today congratulates Peter and his family on this well deserved award.