The Crave Family Produces Cheese and Clean Energy in Wisconsin

Mark Crave, general manager and operating partner of Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese, shares how his family’s multi-generational dairy and cheese operation in southern Wisconsin blends tradition with innovation. From managing 2,200 cows to powering the farm with manure, sustainability and family farming go hand in hand for the Craves.

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Meet Mark Crave

Crave, the youngest of seven siblings, grew up on a Wisconsin farm near the Illinois state line. He and three of his brothers co-founded Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese, located 60 miles from their home farm. Over the decades, the enterprise has expanded from milking 200 cows with family labor to a technologically advanced dairy and cheese business that milks 2,200 cows, farms 3,300 acres, and employs more than 85 full-time staff. 

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the Crave operation. The farm uses a methane digester to process 80,000 gallons of manure and cheese waste per day, converting it into electricity. The energy generated is enough to power the entire farm and 300 area homes. Byproducts are converted into cow bedding and fertilizer. “Nothing goes to waste,” Crave said.

He emphasized the importance of healthy family dynamics and fair labor practices. Five next-generation family members hold leadership roles in everything from herd management to marketing. He credits holding regular meetings and hiring a family business consultant for the family’s ability to maintain close relationships.

Episode Highlights

• The Craves produce fresh (not aged) cheese including mozzarella, queso Oaxaca, and mascarpone.
• Around 95% of their products are sold retail, with more than 70 different packaging SKUs.
• Crave said the business has benefitted from consumer interest in specialty cheese fueled by charcuterie trends.
• Each day, the farm’s methane digester turns 80,000 gallons of waste into renewable electricity, generating enough power for the farm and 300 nearby homes.
• Crave said having a dedicated HR staff has improved hiring and retention.
• Many of the farm’s employees speak Spanish, and several of them come from the same families.

Links and Resources

• Visit the Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese website and online store.
• Meet other dairy farmers who have been featured on the 15 Minutes With a Farmer podcast: