By Andi Anderson
A special educational tour on dairy goat farming will be held in eastern Iowa on July 29, 2026. The event is designed for both current and future dairy goat producers who want to learn more about improving their farming practices.
The tour will be led by Larry Tranel, Extension Dairy Specialist with Iowa State University. He will guide participants through important aspects of dairy goat farming, including facility design, maintenance, and management techniques. The session will also include contributions from experienced regional goat producers, providing real-life insights into successful operations.
Participants will also get the opportunity to learn about the 2025 Iowa dairy goat financial study. This study offers valuable information on the economic side of dairy goat farming, helping producers understand costs, profits, and ways to improve financial outcomes.
“This tour aims to assist the dairy goat industry in understanding the importance of management and facility techniques and tools to develop more profitable dairy goat operations,” said Larry Tranel, Extension Dairy Specialist with Iowa State University.
The event will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Paul Borntrager Farm in Kalona. Later, at 11:00 a.m., the group will move to the Mervin Ropp Farm, also located in Kalona. These visits will allow participants to observe different farm setups and management styles.
After a lunch break, the tour will continue at 1:30 p.m. at the Truman Bontrager Farm in Iowa City. Here, attendees will visit two facilities and gain further practical knowledge about dairy goat operations. The program is expected to conclude around 3:15 p.m.
The tour is open to all interested individuals, and no prior registration is required. Participants should bring their own lunch and arrange their own transportation between the farms.
Photo Credit: pavel-bondarenko
Categories: Iowa, Livestock, Goats & Sheep