By Andi Anderson
The U.P. State Fair once again highlighted the strong connection between youth, dairy farming, and local communities. Each year, young exhibitors gather to showcase their dairy cattle, learn valuable skills, and strengthen their involvement in agriculture.
This year, 37 youth exhibitors participated in the dairy program, including 15 pee-wee showmen. They exhibited cattle in four breed divisions: Holstein, Jersey, Brown Swiss, and Any Other Breeds (AOB). Participants competed in showmanship classes, dairy female competitions, and costume contests. The fair's dairy barn housed 86 cattle, including 27 milking cows.
The event welcomed both experienced exhibitors and first-time participants. Along with presenting their animals, youth gained practical experience in animal care, responsibility, and public interaction. The dairy program also provided opportunities to build friendships and learn from fellow exhibitors and farm families.
First-time exhibitor Colter E. shared her experience:
“I decided to show dairy not only because I wanted to show something new, but also because I have friends that show dairy cattle at the U.P. State Fair and I wanted to join the fun,” said Colter. “At the start of the week, I was surprised at how welcoming the dairy barn was. Multiple families came up to introduce themselves throughout the week and offered help during the week if I needed it.”
The competition featured many outstanding animals and exhibitors. Nash D. earned the title of Supreme Champion Female with his Red and White Holstein, Wil-San Warrior Rosie. Evelynn H. received Reserve Supreme Champion Female honors with her Red and White Holstein, Frolic. Evelynn H. was also named Supreme Champion Showman, while Cora B. earned the Reserve Supreme Showman title.
Reflecting on her involvement in the dairy project, Evelynn H. said:
“Exhibiting dairy cattle has taught me responsibility, and a lot of things about dairy cattle, like where our milk products come from and what actually goes into it,” said Evelynn. “Just being in the dairy barn and talking to the farmers is super enjoyable.”
Melissa Gatien, U.P. State Fair Dairy Superintendent, emphasized the importance of youth participation and family traditions within the dairy program.
“As the dairy superintendent for almost 30 years, watching the kids show their projects, watching the older youth help the younger youth learn skills and lessons, and watching the kids grow up but still remain involved in the dairy program is a pleasure,” said Melissa. “The U.P. State Fair to many families in our dairy barn is tradition and have been showing for many years. To watch a few generations showing at once is exciting and extraordinary.”
Ed McBroom, Milkhouse Superintendent and State Senator, also highlighted the fair's role in bringing farm families together.
“The U.P. State Fair continues to have a great dairy show with nearly 100 cows showing and over 30 youth exhibitors,” said State Senator McBroom. “Despite the difficult time for dairy farms, the fair remains a place where farm families still get together to enjoy fellowship while training the next generation to show and love the life farming provides.”
The success of the dairy show demonstrated the importance of agricultural fairs in educating the public, supporting youth development, and preserving farming traditions. Through hands-on experiences and community involvement, young exhibitors continue to build skills that will contribute to the future of agriculture and rural communities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-vm
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle