During the 2023-2024 school year, Oregon classrooms engaged in an enriching educational journey with the state’s dairy industry. Over 450 classrooms from diverse corners of Oregon participated in Discover Dairy’s Adopt a Cow program, headquartered in the bucolic region of Helvetia, Oregon.

Cultivating Learning: The Adopt a Cow Experience

Casey Schoch, a steward of Oregon’s dairy farming tradition since 1966, hosted the Adopt a Cow program at Schoch Dairy and Creamery. Students began their journey by adopting a baby calf, embarking on a year-long exploration into dairy farming. This initiative, supported by the Dairy Excellence Foundation, aimed to foster agricultural literacy among youth.

Throughout the academic year, participating classrooms nurtured a connection with their adopted calves through letters, virtual tours, and updates from Casey Schoch himself. They delved into the intricacies of dairy operations, learning about nutrition, milking processes, and the life stages of cows. Some lucky classrooms even experienced firsthand the daily rhythms of Schoch Dairy during on-site visits.

Educational Impact: From Farm to Classroom

Discover Dairy’s comprehensive curriculum not only elucidates the origins of milk but also underscores the passion and dedication of farmers like Casey Schoch. By demystifying dairy farming, the program equips students with insights into sustainable nutrition and agricultural sciences, enriching their understanding of community contributions.

This initiative is not only educational but also accessible, as it is offered free of charge to schools across Oregon, promoting broader engagement in agricultural education.

Conclusion: Embracing Oregon’s Dairy Heritage

The Adopt a Cow program exemplifies Oregon’s commitment to fostering agricultural literacy among its youth. By bridging the gap between farm and classroom, initiatives like these empower students to appreciate the vital role of dairy farming in their communities.

For more information on how to participate or support this initiative, visit Discover Dairy’s website or www.ORdairy.org. Download The Local News App to stay updated on more local stories like this.

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