4 Ways Wisconsinites Can Celebrate National Dairy Month

MADISON, WI— With the nickname “America’s Dairyland” it is no surprise Wisconsinites, including Gov. Evers will be celebrating National Dairy Month throughout June.

The month-long recognition of dairy farmers pays homage to the dairy industry's cultural and economic significance within Wisconsin, Evers said in a news release. Wisconsinites can celebrate Dairy Month by shopping local, donating to community nonprofits, taking virtual farm tours and attending events like farm breakfasts.

Established in 1937, Dairy Month was originally created to solve a national dairy surplus, according to the International Dairy Foods Association. Now, as Evers said in a video message, Wisconsinites can use this month to support those working in the industry.

“With more than 1.2 million dairy cows across our state and more than 95% of our dairy farms being family-owned, it’s impossible to go anywhere in Wisconsin and not be reminded how critically important the dairy industry is to our state.”

It is also a time to reflect on the industry’s role in the state’s identity, the release said.

“As one of the nation’s top producers of dairy and supplier of more than a quarter of the country’s cheese, no one does dairy quite like us,” Evers said.

Here are some ways to celebrate National Dairy month:

1. Buy Wisconsin Products

Perhaps the easiest way to support dairy farmers is by ensuring that any cheese, ice, cream and other dairy products were made by Wisconsin cows. A sure-fire method is to check for the “Proudly Wisconsin Cheese®” or “Proudly Wisconsin Dairy®” labels.

2. Adopt a Cow Program

This program is run through the Madison-based food bank, Second Harvest. By donating, participants can “adopt” a cow —including the likes of Flora, Shimmer or Starla, for example—and Second Harvest will donate gallons of milk to folks facing food insecurity in southwest Wisconsin.

3. Virtual Farm Tours

To tour a dairy farm across the state without getting in the car — or even off the couch — check out the virtual programs some farms offer. Virtual tours, such as the Scientific Holsteins farm, show children how farms are run.

4. Attend a Farm Breakfast

Family farms across the state are hosting farm breakfasts throughout June. These events often include a homemade meal, games and a chance to meet and learn about those who run the farm.