Students test their farm management knowledge in intercollegiate dairy challenge
More than 120 college students from 14 U.S. and Canadian universities tested their knowledge of farm management during the first-ever virtual Northeast Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge hosted by the University of Maine Oct. 29 and 30.
Brigeen Farms in Turner opened its gates so teams of students could virtually evaluate all aspects of the farm operations and create presentations providing management recommendations. Judges evaluated the groups’ lectures for their quality and accuracy, the management opportunities they identified and their suggestions for how farm leadership could improve operations and animal care.
Prior to the challenge, students learned about the dairy industry in Maine, latest research and career opportunities.
David Marcinkowski, an associate professor in the School of Food and Agriculture and dairy specialist for University of Maine Cooperative Extension, organized the event. More than three dozen agribusinesses and agricultural organizations sponsored and participated.