By Blake Jackson
Professional Dairy Producers (PDP) is offering dairy producers an opportunity to discover practical calf management strategies during its 2026 Calf Facility Tours.
Scheduled for August 11-13, 2026, in Wisconsin, the educational series will showcase three dairy operations that use different approaches to raising healthy, productive calves.
The tours are open to dairy farmers, calf managers, employees, veterinarians, nutritionists, and other industry professionals interested in learning from successful operations.
Participants will tour calf facilities, hear directly from host producers, and discuss the management practices behind their calf-raising programs.
"Every dairy has different goals, facilities and resources, so there is never just one right answer," said Laura Raatz, dairy producer from Oconto Falls, Wis., and PDP board member.
"These tours give participants the chance to see a variety of successful systems, ask questions and learn why producers have made their decisions. Whether you're considering a facility update or looking for ideas to fine-tune your calf program, you'll leave with practical insights you can take home."
Each stop will highlight key management topics, including facility design, ventilation, biosecurity, housing systems, calf nutrition, animal health, labor efficiency, and technologies that support effective calf care.
The first tour takes place on August 11, 2026, at Truttmann Dairy in Blanchardville, where visitors will see calves transition from a nursery barn into group housing with automated feeding systems.
On August 12, 2026, attendees can visit Calf Source in De Pere to learn about large-scale calf-raising practices for the Milk Source family of dairies, home to thousands of dairy and beef calves as well as goat kids.
The final tour on August 13, 2026, will be held at McFarlandale Dairy in Watertown, featuring newly designed facilities focused on biosecurity and calf health with a structured housing system for youngstock.
Registration is available through PDP website, and participants may attend one or multiple tour locations.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography
Categories: Wisconsin, Education, Livestock, Dairy Cattle