4-H Dairy cow camp 2023

4-H Dairy Cow Camp

Missouri 4-H Dairy Cow Camp had record level attendance in 2023, as 50 youth were excited to learn more about the dairy industry. A large portion of our campers were from a Middle School Ag program with youth that were new to agriculture. What an outstanding way to teach youth about the dairy industry. “The camp draws attention to the importance of farming and its important role in Missouri’s economy. It provides youth a “hands on” opportunity to care for dairy animals and learn about many aspects of dairy production while learning life-skills at the same time,” Karla Deaver said. This year, we again had the added component of working with heifers consigned to the Missouri Holstein Association Tag Sale.

Campers work in pairs under the direction of adults and take part in workshops to learn about judging dairy animals, dairy management, animal care ethics, types of auctions, dairy pedigrees and showmanship. Older teens serve as group leaders and counselors for the younger 4-H members. A number of other awards were handed out at the completion of the camp. Including an outstanding camper award, given in memory of Dr. John Underwood, was awarded to Zeb Wilson.