The Goodhue County dairy farmers and the Goodhue County American Dairy Association showcased dairy farming and products at their annual Breakfast on the Farm held Friday, June 21st at the O’Reilly Green Acres Organic Dairy in rural Goodhue The purpose of the Breakfast on the Farm event is to share with the public how the dairy industry works and contributes to the local economy and way of life. Events like these provide visitors the opportunity to get a first-hand look at where their wholesome and nutritious dairy products come from, and how dairy farmers care for their cows and land. This is increasingly important as each generation has less exposure and connection to dairy farms.
Approximately 2000 people visited Green Acres Organic Dairy where they were able to eat breakfast, tour the farm, participate in interactive activities, and interact with various agricultural business and community leaders. Visitors were able to get a close-up look at the farm's milking parlor in action, various calf and cow housing facilities, and some of the farming equipment used. Each area was staffed by volunteers who explained milking practices, farm safety, cow care, and answered questions. Local FFA chapters, 4-H members, and FCCLA/Leo Clubs assisted with interactive activities including a baby animal petting zoo, tractor train rides, face painting, and making homemade butter. Rochester area’s “Sing Out Loud!” group led by Mark Weorpal provided musical entertainment. Goodhue County's dairy princesses and dairy ambassadors were on hand, as well as Minnesota’s Princess Kay of the Milky Way, Rachel Visser.
In addition to the activities of the morning, various contests were held..The winners of the Name the Calf contest were as follows: Bull calf (boy) – “Tofu” by Rowan Larson. Heifer calf (girl) – “Mrs. Curds” by Sandy Christensen. O’Reilly family farm bingo winner was Allison Lubahn.
The Goodhue County Breakfast on the Farm committee is led by local dairy producers Ann Buck, Kristin Schrimpf, and Shannon Dicke, with the assistance of many other local producer and business partners and volunteers. KCUE Radio of Red Wing produced their morning broadcast live on the farm sharing information and talking with the many contributors to the dairy industry
Thank you to the O’Reilly family for sharing and showcasing their farm during this successful event!.
