As a result of the gift, a Dairy Diversity exhibit at the center will be named in honor of Milk Source. The exhibit will feature an interactive wall of dairy products including butter, yogurt, cheese and ice cream. The exhibit will also offer an opportunity to explore how dairy processing facilities prepare those foods for the market.
The Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center, slated to open in 2018, is under construction on a 36-acre site near Newton along Interstate 43 in Manitowoc County. It aims to be a tourist destination and a place where people can connect to the state’s dairy and agricultural history through hands-on learning and a tour of a local farm. A highlight will be the chance to view the birth of calves at the Land O’Lakes Birthing Barn.
“Having been named the international Innovative Dairy Farm of the Year and a two-time Leopold Wisconsin Conservation Award finalist in recent years, Milk Source was an ideal partner for the Discovery Center,” said Julie Maurer, president of the center’s board of directors. “Whether we’re discussing humane herd management, consumer- and employee-safety practices or environmentally responsible farming techniques, Milk Source has earned a reputation of being in the vanguard. Who better to help us tell the modern farmer’s story?”
The Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center, previously referred to as the Wisconsin Agricultural Education Center, unveiled its new name, branding and logo in early October. At that time, 93 percent of a $13 million capital campaign goal had been reached.
Melissa Bender, Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center director of education and programming, said of the Milk Source donation: “We continue to be humbled by the leadership of local, Wisconsin agricultural leaders. It will be another point of pride to name our Dairy Diversity exhibit in honor of Milk Source’s generosity.»
Milk Source, with headquarters in Kaukauna, operates dairies in Wisconsin and the Midwest, producing milk used to make cheese, butter and other dairy products.
Jim Ostrom, Milk Source LLC partner, said: “Agriculture in the 21st century has achieved the lowest carbon footprint and highest standards of animal care in human history. Farmers throughout America’s Dairyland should be proudly highlighting their experiences. We are excited to share this passion with future visitors of the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center.”