In 2026, longtime Dairy MAX partner and advocate Jon Slutsky will be inducted into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame, an honor reserved for individuals whose contributions have transformed the state’s agricultural industry. Alongside his wife, Susan Moore, Slutsky owned and operated La Luna Dairy in Wellington, Colorado, from the early 1980s until his retirement in 2022.
Known for his generosity, forward-thinking approach and commitment to sustainable dairy farming, Slutsky’s influence stretches far beyond his own operation — leaving a lasting impact on environmental stewardship, dairy innovation and agricultural education.
From California Roots to Colorado Agriculture
Jon and Susan moved to Colorado in 1972 from Riverside, California, shortly after Jon graduated from the University of California, Riverside. With no agricultural background, other than Susan’s childhood experience owning a horse, the couple began their life in the foothills outside Fort Collins. Renting a house with a few acres, they started with 100 chicks and a couple of rabbits. Over the decades, that modest start grew into La Luna Dairy, a thriving herd of 1,700 Holstein cows and their replacements by 2022.
Their journey from no farming experience to respected leaders in Colorado agriculture speaks to their dedication, adaptability and passion for the industry.
What is the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame?
The Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame, hosted by the Colorado FFA Foundation, honors leaders whose contributions — through innovation, stewardship and service — have shaped Colorado’s agricultural industry.
Notable honorees include:
- Temple Grandin — Champion of humane livestock handling and animal welfare
- John Matsushima — Pioneer in cattle feeding efficiency and beef production research
- Kenneth Monfort — Influential cattleman and beef industry innovator
In 2026, the Hall of Fame will induct four new leaders:
- Marlin Eisenach — Dedicated Colorado State University Extension agent and mentor in livestock programming
- Tony Frank — Influential CSU academic leader and advocate for agricultural outreach and infrastructure
- Jenifer Gurr — Longtime Colorado Department of Agriculture administrator and systems innovator
- Jon Slutsky — Champion of dairy innovation, sustainability and education
Together, these inductees represent a diverse legacy of leadership, service and vision in Colorado agriculture.
Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
Operating La Luna Dairy in Wellington since the early 1980s, Jon became known for his ability to balance the “dairy meets urban” conversation. He partnered with Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine to advance teaching and research, while also serving as a strong advocate for the dairy industry in policy and public forums. His leadership consistently bridged the gap between agricultural producers and the growing communities around them.
Slutsky’s environmental advocacy is evident in his service on:
- Colorado Air Quality Control Commission
- Colorado Water Quality Control Commission
- USDA Agricultural Air Quality Task Force
- Colorado Livestock Association Board of Directors
He championed science-based policies that balance environmental protection with the operational needs of dairy farmers. For example, La Luna Dairy’s manure management system minimized runoff, enhanced soil health and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
These efforts demonstrate how sustainable dairy farming can protect natural resources while maintaining productivity.
Empowering the Next Generation of Dairy Leaders
Slutsky and Moore believed agricultural literacy starts young. When the Colorado State University dairy farm closed, they opened La Luna Dairy to the university for student training and research — ensuring aspiring dairy professionals still had access to hands-on learning.
In 2005, they expanded this commitment to education through a partnership with Wellington Middle School, connecting classroom science to real-world dairy farming.
Hands-on Learning at La Luna Dairy
For nearly 15 years, the program invited students to the farm for workshops led by industry experts on:
- Milking procedures and dairy product production
- Feed and nutrition management for herd health
- Special-needs cow care, including freshened cows and calves
- Manure management and environmental responsibility
These sessions brought agricultural science to life, sparking curiosity and inspiring many students to explore careers in agriculture.
Investing in a Skilled and Engaged Workforce
Jon understood that the success of his dairy depended on a skilled and engaged workforce. He went to great lengths to foster communication with his culturally diverse team, developing Spanish-language training programs through Colorado State University and other organizations, and learning Spanish himself. His priority was ensuring every employee had the skills and understanding needed to care for the cows as attentively as he would himself.
Driving Dairy Innovation Through Technology
La Luna Dairy was known for adopting emerging technologies long before they became industry standards.
- Synchronized breeding — In partnership with Colorado State University, Slutsky implemented this reproductive management method in 1990, making La Luna one of the first dairies in the United States to do so. The system reduced “days open,” increased pregnancy rates at first service and improved overall herd health.
- Computer-based milk management systems — These tools enhanced milk quality monitoring, feed efficiency and herd performance tracking.
By embracing innovation, Slutsky demonstrated that technology in dairy farming not only boosts productivity but also improves animal welfare.
Connecting Sustainability, Animal Welfare and Industry Success
Slutsky’s career is a clear example of how sustainability, animal welfare and industry growth are interconnected:
- Environmental sustainability — Reduced environmental footprint through responsible manure management and water conservation
- Animal welfare — Improved reproductive efficiency and herd health with synchronized breeding
- Community investment — Empowered youth through agricultural education programs
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Induction Ceremony
The induction ceremony will take place at The Westin Hotel in Westminster, Colorado in 2026. It will be a celebration of Slutsky’s lifelong commitment to sustainable dairy farming, technological innovation and mentorship.
A Legacy That Inspires
From pioneering new dairy technologies to shaping policy that supports both farmers and the environment, Jon Slutsky’s story is one of vision, leadership and generosity. His induction into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame not only honors his career but also sets a benchmark for future agricultural leaders.
Even in retirement, Jon remains an advocate for agriculture, environmental stewardship and the agricultural workforce. As a member of the Rocky Mountain National Park Ag Sub-Committee, he continues to lend his experience and voice to important conversations about the future of Colorado agriculture.
Congratulations, Jon! Your work continues to inspire farmers, students and communities across Colorado and beyond.
