The 2024 Midwest Regional Dairy Challenge, hosted by University of Wisconsin-Madisonconcluded February 9th in Green Bay, WI. The event saw significant participation with 120 students from 17 schools, along with coaches and volunteers, gathering in downtown Green Bay. The students arrived and were able to attend educational sessions focusing on financials, automatic milking systems, and technology on farms.The students met their mentor and teammates over dinner and brief team building activities. Shortly after dinner they received farm information and began to analyze in preparation for their farm visit and future presentation.
On the second day, students visited one of three farms—Tauchen Harmony Valley Inc. of Bonduel, Diederich Farm LLC of Hobart, or Libertyland Farms of Valders. Accompanied by industry mentors, students assessed different aspects of each dairy farm, including calf care, parlor management, transition pens, and feed management. They also conducted interviews with the producers to gain insights into farm management practices and goals. In the afternoon, students used the data collected during the farm visits and interviews to develop their presentations. Following the submission of their presentation, they, along with sponsors and volunteers, enjoyed tours, tailgate games, and dinner at Lambeau Field.
The final day of the contest saw judge panels evaluating each team’s 20-minute presentations, which highlighted the strengths and areas of improvement for their respective farm. Additionally, there were educational sessions, including a Dairy Challenge alumni panel. Students networked with alumni and sponsors throughout the day. The event concluded with the presentation of student awards, marking the end of the successful 2024 Midwest Regional Dairy Challenge.
The judges awarded the following teams with the first and second place ranking on each farm among the 24 total teams participating.
