By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will host the 2026 Dairy Days program, a statewide series of in-person educational meetings designed to support dairy producers and industry professionals.
Scheduled across January and February, the program focuses on practical steps farmers can take now to support long-term herd health, efficiency, and profitability.
The 2026 theme highlights near-term strategies that can create lasting benefits. Dairy Days brings together extension specialists from across Iowa to share timely information on milk markets, herd health, forage management, and farm-level decision-making.
Each meeting offers a full day of learning, open discussion, and opportunities to connect with other dairy producers and industry partners. Lunch will be provided through local sponsorships.
Speakers from the Iowa State University Extension Dairy Team will cover a wide range of important topics. Sessions include discussions on milk market trends and how pricing systems affect farm income.
Disease and parasite challenges facing dairy herds will be reviewed, along with guidance on prevention and management. Producers will also learn about cost-of-production strategies that apply to herds of different sizes and systems.
Forage management will be a key focus, with hands-on identification activities and a producer listening session to encourage shared learning.
Other sessions will explain how culling decisions can impact long-term herd performance and how proper colostrum management supports calf health and future productivity. These topics are designed to help farmers make informed choices that protect both animal health and farm finances.
Dairy Days will be held at five locations across Iowa. One location will include a farm tour, while all others will begin with morning registration followed by speaker sessions. The program is open to dairy producers, farm employees, and allied industry members.
Registration is encouraged in advance, and participants can access full program details through Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
Overall, Dairy Days 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for dairy farms to gain knowledge, share experiences, and prepare confidently for the future of the dairy industry.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-vm
Categories: Iowa, Education