A young man from SDC Youth Programs pets a goat during a field trip to Weyauwega.
A group of young people from the Social Development Commission’s (SDC) Youth Programs got a firsthand look at life in the country. The youth took a field trip to a large dairy farm and petting zoo in Mid-Wisconsin.
The field trip was organized by SDC to provide a look at how people live and work on Wisconsin dairy farms. It also included exposure to many animals urban youth do not normally see.
The trip started with a visit to Quantum Dairy Farms in Weyauwega in Waupaca County. Quantum Dairy is a large operation with almost 5,000 cows. Richard Wagner of the farm took the young people on a tour of the operation, showing them how cows are cared for and milked. While surprised at the pungent atmosphere of the dairy barns, the youth did express great interest in how milk and cheese are produced through many questions.
Youth from SDC tour a large dairy farm in Weyauwega, Wisconsin.
The field trip also made a stop at the nearby Animal Haven Petting Zoo. There, youth were able to get a close look at many animals they had only seen before in pictures or television. Being able to touch and closely observe the animals at the zoo made a strong impression on the young people.
SDC’s Youth Programs are part of their Youth and Family Development Program. To learn more about the program, visit the SDC website at www.cr-sdc.org, click on the “Programs” page and then on the link for “Youth and Family Development”.