The annual event will include a dairy farm tour, free meal, and activities from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 14.
Visitors will tour Hickory Hill Farms, including opportunities to see where cows are milked, where they are housed and where they are fed, plus learn about the role of milk and dairy products in a healthy diet. Veterinarians, dairy nutritionists, dairy farmers, and other experts will be available to answer questions.
“We are excited to invite everyone to celebrate June Dairy Month with us by touring the dairy farm and seeing where the dairy products they enjoy get their start,” stated Steve Meissner of Hickory Hill Farms. “Great-tasting dairy products start with healthy, comfortable cows, and we look forward to sharing how we care for animals and the land.”
The Meissner’s started milking in the 1890s with Great-Great Grandpa William Meissner in Sussex, WI. Steve and Scott Meissner are currently milking 4,000 cows two times a day in a double 32 parlor at their farm, which is located at 4045 400th St., Hospers.
The Meissner’s cows are housed in a free stall barn with fiber bedding and 24-hour access to feed and water. The dairy is committed to using the latest technology, resources, and employee talent in producing high quality milk while protecting the environment and providing a positive way of life for their employees.
Following the tour, guests will enjoy a free cheeseburger meal, as well as milk and ice cream. Guests will have the chance to meet dairy calves, and participate in kids’ activities, educational displays, machinery viewing and much more.
The Iowa Dairy Princess and Dairy Ambassadors will also be in attendance.
The event is sponsored by Western Iowa Dairy Alliance in celebration of June Dairy Month.
June Dairy Month is a great opportunity to celebrate the efforts of Iowa’s dairy farmers as they deliver a wholesome and nutritious supply of milk and dairy products and make a significant contribution to the state’s economy and rural communities. According to “The 2020 Comprehensive Review of Iowa’s Dairy Industry,” dairy is the fifth largest agricultural business in Iowa, generating $5.6 billion a year in economic activity from farming to dairy processing, and supplying 22,000 jobs with a labor income of $891 million. The annual economic impact of a single dairy cow in Iowa is more than $25,495 per cow.
