The Michigan dairy industry will have the spotlight during the 18th Annual Michigan Dairy Expo. The event is slated for July 21-25 at the MSU Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education.
Visitors of all ages can learn about Michigan’s dairy industry by visiting commercial exhibits and attending dairy management seminars as well as state breed shows.
“More than 200 youth will also participate in various educational and leadership activities during the week. These youth represent the future of Michigan's dairy industry,” said Joe Domecq, MSU Department of Animal Science specialist and Michigan Dairy Expo director.
At Youth Dairy Days, the youth-centered portion of the event, future dairy professionals and enthusiasts will have an opportunity to compete for premiums, ribbons and scholarships in events, such as dairy quiz bowls, dairy management contests, dairy cattle judging competitions and the Dairy Days youth show. Winners will have the opportunity to represent Michigan in national competitions.
Children of all ages as well as parents and educators can learn about dairy cows and farming through hands-on activities and learning stations at the 16th annual Great Dairy Adventure consumer education day, July 23. The United Dairy Industry of Michigan is sponsoring Jump With Jill, a live music-based health program that will get children and adults in motion. Sing-a-long songs prominently feature dairy products and their importance to daily diet. Performances will start each half-hour from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Individual and team winners will be announced during the Michigan Dairy Expo Celebration Picnic and Dairy Youth Recognition Program the evening of July 24. The top two eligible junior and senior individuals will receive cash awards of $750 and $1,000, respectively. The evening will conclude with an ice cream social.
Michigan Dairy Expo is the largest annual dairy event in the state. Past years have drawn more than 300 dairy animals and more than 175 exhibitors. The mission of Michigan Dairy Expo is to encourage and promote youth involvement in dairy activities, showcase the Michigan dairy industry, and provide continuing education opportunities for the dairy industry in Michigan and neighboring states.
Admission to the Michigan Dairy Expo is free, and the public is invited to attend.
For more information, visit msustatewide.msu.edu or contact Joe Domecq at (517) 353-7855 or domecqjo@msu.edu.