Maine kicks off Dairy Month at Witter Farm to celebrate industry advances

The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry and Gov. Janet Mills launched Dairy Month on June 6 at the University of Maine’s Witter Farm, uniting dairy farmers, 4-H students, researchers, state and local leaders and industry partners. Together, and with a celebratory milk toast, they highlighted the vital role of dairy in Maine’s agricultural economy and rural communities.

“Witter Farm is an incredible example of how innovation and education are shaping the future of agriculture in Maine,” said UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy. “We’re proud to highlight the ways research and student learning intersect to support the state’s dairy industry.”

As part of the Maine Agricultural and Forest Experiment Station, Witter Farm is a hub for research, experiential learning and outreach. Each year, more than 6,000 visitors tour the farm, where students care for animals, bottle-feed calves, assist with herd health and use a robotic milking system that provides real-time data on milk quality and cow well-being.

The event brought together representatives from the Maine Dairy Industry Association, Maine Cheese Guild, Maine Dairy Promotion Board and Maine 4-H, as well as UMaine faculty, students, agricultural service providers and policymakers.

Mills and Ferrini-Mundy delivered remarks honoring the strength, resilience and innovation of Maine’s dairy sector.

“During Maine Dairy Month, Maine people can show their appreciation by making sure the milk they buy at the grocery store is produced in Maine,” said Mills. “Let’s all support the long-term success of Maine’s dairy industry by buying milk and milk products that come from Maine.” 

Read the full release from the Office of Governor Janet T. Mills online. 

Contact: Ashley Yates; ashley.depew@maine.edu