In Wisconsin 99% of dairy farms are family-owned, and June Dairy Month is a time to showcase how Wisconsin dairy farmers care for their animals, land, and water with dedication. Farms shaped by the hard work of previous generations combine tradition with innovation. They hold onto core values of quality and stewardship while striving for sustainability and introducing new products to the market.
Discover farmers’ dedication
I grew up showing dairy and helping feed calves at my grandparents’ farm. Getting involved in animal care and competitions at a young age inspired my path as an ag business and dairy science student, but I know not everyone has this opportunity. That’s why on-farm experiences like dairy breakfasts are so important.
June Dairy Month celebrations are opportunities to educate neighbors whose idea of farm life is limited to driving past red barns dotting Wisconsin’s countryside. Newer, freestall barns give cows temperature-controlled comfort and access to food and water. Visitors learn about the science behind cow nutrition formulated to fit each animal’s needs. Attendees marvel at rotary milking parlors and robotic milking technologies. Conversations about farm practices are powerful. DFW spokesperson training supports farmers in answering questions from visitors and the media covering the events.
Taste farm-fresh products
As a June dairy breakfast and Sundae on the Farm volunteer with the Junior Holstein Association and FFA, I served pancake meals complete with milk and yogurt, scooped ice cream, and showed off my basic butter-making skills. In my role as Wisconsin Communications Intern at DFW, I’m building relationships and sharing even more resources and recipes DFW has developed.
DFW-developed digital toolkits include facts about dairy products that help guests connect the dots between what’s on their plate and their dietary goals. Protein is a priority for athletes and others, and yogurt can offer up to 24 grams per cup. Chocolate milk has a 3:1 carb-to-protein ratio to refuel tired muscles. Wisconsin cheese-inspired recipes, like a Mexican-style watermelon salad with crumbled queso fresco and queso cotija give participants ideas for their next picnic-style potluck, too.
June Dairy Month dates to the late 1930s. Initially designed to stabilize dairy demand when production was at a surplus, the commemoration has evolved into an annual tradition. Dairy farming is key to Wisconsin's communities and economy, and with more than 80 activations happening statewide throughout June, getting involved is easy. Breakfast on the Farm events are designed to be fun for the whole family, and an excellent way to introduce the next generation to what makes Wisconsin dairy special.
Find a June Dairy Month event or explore promotion materials here.
