By Blake Jackson
Wisconsin dairy farms will once again open their doors to the public as the 2026 Agricultural Community Engagement (ACE) Twilight Meetings return August 24–27, continuing a tradition of more than 15 years that connects farmers, local officials, community leaders, and residents through education and conversation.
The free events will take place in Barron, Clark, Calumet, and Dane counties, giving attendees an opportunity to tour progressive dairy farms, learn about modern dairy production, and discuss issues affecting rural communities.
“There’s an old saying that people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” said Mike Koles, executive director, Wisconsin Towns Association.
“ACE provides an opportunity for some of the primary stakeholders in rural success — farmers and local officials — to build relationships and find out how passionate they all are about growing the economy, conserving the environment and affecting positive community change.”
Each meeting begins with a guided farm tour at 6 p.m., where visitors can see firsthand how dairy cattle are cared for and how technology supports today’s farming practices.
Ice cream will be served at 7 p.m., followed by an open discussion covering topics such as wind and solar energy, water quality, conservation, transportation, road infrastructure, education, and other local concerns. Events conclude at 8:30 p.m.
The 2026 host farms include Norm-E-Lane at Four Mile Creek Dairy in Hillsdale on Aug. 24, Norm-E-Lane in Chili on Aug. 25, River’s Edge Dairy in Chilton on Aug. 26, and Virhada Holsteins LLC in Mt. Horeb on Aug. 27.
The ACE Twilight Meetings are presented through a partnership between Professional Dairy Producers (PDP), the Wisconsin Counties Association, and the Wisconsin Towns Association. Community members are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and engage with local elected officials during these free educational events.
To learn more, visit www.PDPW.org or contact PDP at 800-947-7379.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-lishanskyphotography
Categories: Wisconsin, Education, Livestock, Dairy Cattle