– Neighborly Advice –
The end of an era
TFC’s longstanding ruminant nutritionist Todd Steen retires; Dr. Josh Zeltwanger joins staff
By John Houston, ProTrition Director of Business Services
After 26 years with ProTrition and Tennessee Farmers Co-op, Todd Steen, ruminant nutritionist, retired on April 4, marking the end of an era. Over his 35-year career in ruminant nutrition, Todd has been a key figure in shaping livestock nutrition and herd health practices, leading to healthier herds and better nutritional outcomes for producers. He has regularly contributed to this Neighborly Advice column and worked closely with Co-op customers throughout our trade area0.
Todd’s career began long before his time at ProTrition. Before joining TFC, he gained valuable experience at Indiana Farm Bureau Co-op/Countrymark Cooperative/ Land O’Lakes, Inc in Indiana, where he laid the foundation for his career. His work has left a lasting mark on the industry, including as lead author of seven Cooperative Research Farms (CRF) publications, and is cited in the National Research Council’s Nutrient Requirements for Dairy Cattle (NRC). His research in protein/ionophore interactions continues to be an influence the field.
Known for building strong relationships with both customers and colleagues, Todd’s blend of scientific expertise and practical solutions has made him a trusted advisor. He left Tennessee to play football at Abilene Christian University, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1984. He received his master’s degree in ruminant nutrition from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, where his study focused on protein type for growing heifers. Other projects included rumen development and coccidiosis control.
Todd’s leadership extends beyond his work with ProTrition. He has served as chair of the Cooperative Research Farms (CRF) Board of Directors, the Beef, Dairy and Equine Planning Boards, and the CRF Research Committee. His influence reached global audiences, as he has been invited to speak at universities and conferences in the U.S. and five other countries.
ProTrition Feed is excited to announce the addition of four new blocks to our product lineup this spring.
As Todd transitions into retirement, he plans to farm, fish, and spend more time with family. As a perfect example of Todd’s dedication to his coworkers and customers, he has agreed to work a couple of days a week through July and then a day a week until December to support and assist the transition to Grey Parks, non-ruminant nutritionist, and Dr. Josh Zeltwanger, ProTrition’s latest ruminant nutritionist, who will be assuming Todd’s responsibilities.
A native of Francesville, Indiana, Josh grew up on a farm with a small cow-calf operation, where he gained firsthand experience working with livestock. From a young age, he was heavily involved in 4-H livestock projects, further developing his skills and knowledge in animal care and nutrition.
Josh earned his doctorate in animal science from the University of Missouri, a master’s degree in animal science from the University of Minnesota, and a bachelor’s in animal science from West Texas A&M University. Josh also has an associate’s degree in agriculture production from Black Hawk College in Galva, Illinois. His research during graduate school included rumen fermentation, growth characteristics, and the interactions of fescue toxicosis and heat stress on immune function and nutrient balance in beef cattle. He has prior work experience in nutrition consulting, feedyard management, and extension education with the University of Missouri. His strong academic foundation, combined with his real-world experience, will make him an asset to ProTrition and a resource to its dealers and customers.
Josh has relocated to Murfreesboro and is eager to connect with producers and industry professionals across our footprint. In addition to his nutrition expertise, he has a strong background in the livestock business, including a minor partnership in a Kansas sale barn with his family. Outside of work, Josh enjoys spending time with “Z” his blue heeler dog, golfing, fishing, and following baseball. He has two brothers, one older and one younger.
