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  September 12, 2023
• • Featured • Announcements

Thank You for 10 Years!

In August 2013, what began as a visionary idea transformed into a cornerstone attraction at the New York State Fair — the Dairy Cow Birthing Center. For ten years, courtesy of the New York Animal Agriculture Coalition (NYAAC), fairgoers have been privileged to witness the miracle of life unfold before their eyes. Thanks to unwavering support from the NYAAC Board of Directors, advisory committee members, dedicated volunteers, and generous sponsors, the Dairy Cow Birthing Center has flourished year after year.

Even a decade on, our mission remains resolute. We aim to impart an understanding that the welfare of our cows is paramount. We want people to recognize that the journey of milk production commences with the birth of a calf. Ultimately, we desire our visitors to remember that dairy farmers are stewards of their land and livestock, laboring tirelessly to ensure a legacy for generations to come.

The Dairy Cow Birthing Center owes its existence to our Host Farms, volunteers, and sponsors. These Host Farms hail from every corner of New York State, as do our dedicated volunteers. They are the backbone of the dairy and agriculture industry, committed to sharing their stories. We cherish the fact that you, our cherished visitors, continue to engage with Host Farms on social media, visit volunteers on their own farms, and pose questions throughout the year. 

This DCBC was born from a simple idea, and its growth is a testament to the collaborative efforts of countless individuals and businesses. Without the support of our numerous sponsors and donors, none of this would be possible. Since 2013, almost a hundred companies, farms, and businesses in the agriculture industry have provided both financial and in-kind support. Among them, twelve steadfast entities have been with us from the outset, earning the distinction of 10-year sponsors. We extend our deepest gratitude to:

• Agri-Mark
• Cargill
• Central New York Feeds, Inc.
• Dairy Farmers of America
• Farm Credit Northeast AgEnhancement
• Gold Star Feed & Grain
• Legacy Wealth Advisors of NY
• Merck Animal Health
• New York Corn & Soybean Growers Association
• New York Beef Producers Association
• New York State Fair
• Zoetis Animal Health

To all our visitors, we offer heartfelt thanks! You have been an integral part of this exhibit for the past decade. Your inquiries, farm visits, and interest in understanding the origins of dairy products have not gone unnoticed. Whether this is your first visit or your tenth, your presence is cherished, and we appreciate your belief in and support of our mission.

In the last decade, we achieved the following milestones:

• Spent more than 150 days at the New York State Fair.
• Partnered with 30 different Host Farms.
• Witnessed 354 cows giving birth.
• Welcomed 379 calves into the world.
• Accumulated 8,700 subscribers to our texting line.
• Sent 1.6 million text messages.
• Greeted 2.3 million visitors in our tent.
• Posted more than 1,500 times on social media.
• Benefitted from volunteers contributing over 15,000 hours of their time.
• Received support from 93 different sponsors.

This year at the Dairy Cow Birthing Center, we welcomed 34 healthy calves - 18 bulls and 16 heifers. Though many were born during the wee hours of the morning or after the sun set at night, visitors, in person and online, delighted in each birth. 

As we commemorate a decade of the Dairy Cow Birthing Center, we eagerly anticipate hearing more from you. Connect with us on social media and share your own stories. Tell us about your favorite moments or explain why you make it a point to tune in every single year. We look forward to seeing you at the 2024 NYS Fair!