By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy Team is organizing a series of on-farm dairy processing field days to help dairy producers explore new business opportunities and strengthen farm profitability. The events will focus on successful dairy farms that have expanded into niche markets through on-farm processing of products such as cheese, fluid milk, and gelato.
The field days are designed to give producers practical knowledge about developing value-added dairy enterprises. Participants will have the opportunity to tour operating farms, learn directly from experienced dairy producers, and gain insights into the growing market for locally processed dairy products.
Each event will feature a guided farm tour and a panel discussion involving the host producer, Dylan Liu, Assistant Professor of Food Science at Iowa State University, members of the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Farm, Food and Enterprise Development Team, Dairy Team representatives, and a representative from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. A boxed meal will also be provided for attendees.
According to Gail Carpenter, Assistant Professor and Extension Dairy Specialist at Iowa State University, on-farm processing is becoming an important strategy for dairy operations seeking to remain competitive in changing market conditions.
She explained, “On-farm processors are important and growing contributors to Iowa’s dairy industry. Small dairies in particular see on-farm processing as a way to stay competitive in today’s markets.”
Carpenter also highlighted the educational value of the field days, adding, “These events will help dairy producers determine if this is a good option for them and begin building their support network and toolbox as they explore this opportunity.”
The field day series will take place at several locations across Iowa. Events are scheduled in Orange City at Favorite Creamery on August 4, Donnellson at Hinterland Dairy on August 6, Ogden at Sundae Morning Dairy on August 24, and Maquoketa at Moore Local on September 8. Each location will showcase different approaches to on-farm dairy processing and marketing.
The program is open to regional dairy producers interested in diversifying their operations and exploring alternative income streams. Attendance is free due to support from the North Central Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program.
These events reflect the growing interest in value-added agriculture and provide producers with an opportunity to learn how on-farm processing can create new revenue opportunities. By connecting with experts, government representatives, and fellow dairy farmers, participants can gain valuable knowledge to help them evaluate and potentially develop their own niche-market dairy businesses.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-vm
Categories: Iowa, General