March 20th is widely considered the start of the spring season. But for many in Susquehanna County, Ag Day (formally Dairy Day), on March 4th, is the symbolic end of winter. This annual tradition, in its 27th year, is organized by PennState Extension and brings together academia, agricultural businesses, suppliers, farmers, and the community. It also celebrates delicious dairy products including milk, cheese, and ice cream!
An estimated 75 vendors were present this year including AgChoice Farm Credit, Agri-door, American Farm Products, Balewski Wood Shavings & Bedding, Barton Supply Inc., Delaval Dairy Service, and many others.
Cabot set up a booth this year to update those interested in its ongoing operations in Susquehanna County. With the industry reeling from a significant commodity price collapse and the subsequent scaling back by many operators in 2016, on the ground, face to face conversations are tremendously important. In honor of the day’s festivities, Cabot raffled off a basket filled with gardening supplies, seeds & other spring items.
PennState Extension facilitated many educational opportunities for the crowd this year too. Classes taught covered topics like Rock Star Produce from your own Backyard and Robotic milking systems in PA.
The hallmark of the event, by far, remains the annual pie contest and pie auction, which raises money for the Susquehanna County 4-H Dairy Program and Dairy Princess/Promotion Program. Cabot joined many in attendance vying for the delicious pies and securing the winning bids on two pies belonging to Amanda Gowel and Autumn Bonavita. The auction brought in a total of $4,640 from 35 pies this year.
