by Margaret Quaassdorff
Attention NWNY regional dairies: Don’t miss your chance to apply for the Dairy of Distinction award. Applications must be submitted by April 15th. The Dairy of Distinction Program is based on the concept that attractive farmsteads enhance consumer confidence in the dairy industry. The award also recognizes the hard work and efforts of all Northeast dairy farmers.
90+ dairies from our region have been awarded in the past. Winners will receive the Dairy of Distinction roadside sign for your farmstead. Please read on for more information about the program, and how to apply.
Established in 1983, the Northeast Dairy Farm Beautification Program recognizes the hard work and dedication of dairy owner / operators who have attractive, well-kept farms and promote a good dairy industry image. All active dairy farms in Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Vermont are eligible to apply for the Dairy of Distinction award. Winning farms receive the special Dairy of Distinction roadside sign for their farmstead.
The Dairy of Distinction Program is based on the concept that attractive farmsteads enhance consumer confidence in the dairy industry. The award also recognizes the hard work and efforts of all Northeast dairy farmers. “This grassroots recognition has been the key to the program,” said William Underwood, New York’s first president and farmer from Tully, NY. “This is one way dairy farmers can directly promote their industry”. Honoring these farmers say’s ‘thank you’, and by promoting this program we can encourage other farmers to do the same.
To apply for the award, an application must be submitted to the secretary for your state by April 15th. Roadside farm judging takes place in May and is based on the condition of the farm and livestock. Applicants in Pennsylvania must list the name of the dairy cooperative or milk handler where the milk is shipped. The milk handler will be contacted to approve the quality of the milk during the previous 12 months. Farms that are awarded the Dairy of Distinction honor are notified in late May or June. Winners are re-judged every year to ensure they maintain the high standards of the award.
Visit DairyofDistinctionAwards.com to apply and for more information including previous Named Dairies of Distinction.
