One of the most highly anticipated events for dairy cattle lovers across the world starts this week, which means our farm here at Hoard’s Dairyman will have many visitors. National 4-H, Post-Secondary, and Intercollegiate dairy judging teams are making their way to World Dairy Expo but also have the opportunity to further their dairy education in the days prior. Teams take their shot at judging groups of cattle and touring a few dairies, including ours, before contest day arrives.

On Friday, the Jefferson County Agri-Business Club volunteered their time to make these young dairy enthusiasts a grilled ham and cheese lunch using cheese from the Hoard’s Dairyman Farm Creamery, along with all the fixings. Youngsters had the opportunity to tour our calf, milking, and freestall facilities on the farm. The teams also traveled to a few other farms, allowing them to get a taste of what dairy farming in Wisconsin looks like.

Teams from near and far have been practicing for months on end, preparing for this day. These National 4-H, Post-Secondary, and Intercollegiate teams will compete on Sunday, September 29, putting their skills to the test bright and early at 7:30 a.m. in the Coliseum. Following the judging contests, teams will come together for a meal and awards banquet honoring their efforts located in The Tanbark.

Our Hoard’s Dairyman team is honored to host these judging teams and be a part of their Expo journey. Good luck to all!

Results of the judging contests will be posted as Hoard’s Dairyman receives them. You can find the results at the Hoard’s Dairyman Facebook page Sunday night.

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Jenna Byrne is an associate editor for Hoard’s Dairyman. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville in 2022, majoring in agricultural business with an emphasis in communications and marketing. She grew up on her family’s dairy farm near Neillsville, Wis.