Saturday, June 23, 2018, was a celebration of the dairy industry in Kansas as Governor Jeff Colyer’s proclamation making June Kansas Dairy Month was presented to two Kansas dairies at their Dairy Month open house events.

Ohlde’s Dairy in Linn hosted an open house featuring breakfast, tours, calf feedings and kid friendly demonstrations and activities. Shirley Acedo, Kansas Department of Agriculture agribusiness development coordinator, presented the Kansas Dairy Month proclamation to Steve Ohlde. Midwest Dairy representatives were present with a variety of dairy-related educational opportunities for youth and adults.

“There is nothing like firsthand experiences,” said Ron Grusenmeyer, Midwest Dairy farmer relations manager. “When the Ohlde family opens their farm gates to consumers, they make a lasting impression to help people understand how important it is to provide excellent care for their cows and land to produce a wholesome product for everyone to enjoy.”

Hildebrand Farms Dairy in Junction City also celebrated Kansas Dairy Month on Saturday by hosting an open house and an outdoor showing of “Ferdinand” with a full concession stand including root beer floats, ice cream sundaes and movie theater popcorn.

“We were lucky to share a beautiful Kansas night with members of our community, and plan to continue the movie night for years to come,” said Melissa Hildebrand Reed. “Thanks to Midwest Dairy who attended and provided our visitors with great information regarding dairy and the many health benefits. While June is National Dairy Month, we love sharing the good news of the health benefits of dairy all year round.”

The Kansas dairy industry is a valued member of Kansas agriculture, and contributes more than $1.3 billion to the Kansas economy locally and statewide. Kansas is home to 153,000 dairy cows on approximately 300 large and small dairy farms. The growth in the Kansas dairy industry means economic growth and access to safe dairy products for local communities and the state. The Kansas ag growth dairy strategy has identified the expansion of the influence, presence and professional standing of the Kansas dairy industry as a priority.

For more information about dairy opportunities in Kansas, please contact Acedo at Shirley.Acedo@ks.gov or 788-564-7467 or go to agriculture.ks.gov/dairy or dairyinkansas.com.