By Bethany Champion, ABAC Agricultural Communication, May 2025 graduate
Dairy plays an essential role in the United States, with the average cow producing about 350,000 glasses of milk in its lifetime. The dairy industry contributes greatly to our economy and the entire agricultural industry. Aside from the economic impact, our dairy farmers provide us with wholesome nutrient-rich products. Milk provides thirteen essential nutrients per serving and hydrates better than water.
The Dairy Alliance is a nonprofit organization fully funded by dairy farming families across the Southeast. The group works with farmers, schools, sports teams, health professionals, state leaders, and the media to advertise and promote the dairy industry. In the dairy barn at Expo, you can learn more about dairy through their educational material for children and adults of all ages. While you are there, be sure to grab some fresh, delicious milk and ice cream for free!
Another highlight of the dairy barn is the Georgia Mobile Dairy Classroom. Nicole Duvall travels with the mobile classroom throughout the year to schools across Georgia to show students live milking demonstrations and educate them about the benefits of dairy. Each day of Expo, you can witness the live demonstrations for yourself.
“I am always thrilled to see a diverse audience at Expo,” said Duvall. “From farm families who have made it a tradition to stop by, enjoy some ice cream, and catch a demonstration to homestead enthusiasts wanting to learn more about cow care or milking equipment to large groups of FFA students eager to explore Georgia’s dairy industry and interact with baby calves.”
Every afternoon, be sure to stop by for the annual milking contest. A fan favorite, special guests from all over come to compete in the milking contest. This friendly competition shows who has the best milking skills. Each contestant is given a bucket and a stool, and competitors are timed. When the timer goes off, the milk is measured. Whoever has the most milk is the champion. Friends from all over gather around the pen and watch the milking contest take place. You will find special guests such as Georgia Ag Commissioner Tyler Harper and president of American Farm Bureau, Zippy Duvall, as well as agriculture education students from local high schools.
When strolling through Expo, the dairy barn exhibit is one you don’t want to miss. With live milking demonstrations, educational displays, and free ice cream and milk all week long, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
