At nearly 7 million pounds of milk per month, Loudon County is the largest dairy-producing county in Tennessee. Neighboring Greene County has the largest number of individual dairy herds, producing one-third that amount of milk, according to Julie Walker of Agri-Voice, Knoxville.

A wedding is a day to be remembered and cherished forever by a couple, surrounded by friends and family. It is one of the most important and happy days in a person’s life. For Caroline Conley of Sayland Dairy in Jonesboro, Tennessee, this day could never have been complete without a special lady in attendance.

The Northeast is considered an ideal climate for dairying. Access to water, seasonal temperatures and a relatively close proximity to the marketplace all provide plenty of opportunity for dairies to thrive in this region.

With firelight casting shadows on dim cave walls, our ancestors drew stories of the animals they knew with simple media such as paints and charcoal. Fast forward a few millennia to June 2015 and you’d find Progressive Dairyman graphic artist Kristen Phillips depicting a cow – not with a computer – but via unpretentious string.

At Brooksco Dairy (2,750 cows), Calvin Moody has created a well-managed “mother ship,” where all cows calve and all calves are raised for the three stand-alone dairies, including Jeffco (2,350 cows) and Westbrook (2,250 cows).

Doing things with excellence every day, making the right business decisions, caring for the environment and building strong ties with the community is how Pennsylvania dairy producers continue to receive recognition. This year was no different, as it was fortunate to have another dairy farm recognized as one of three award recipients for a prestigious national award.

It’s time to dust off those white pants and load up the trailer for summertime shows and fairs. Whether a youth is exhibiting their 4-H project heifer or a breeder is showing off their prized milking cow, getting ready for competition requires preparation and dedication.

In the heart of America’s Dairyland, one little county has made a big impact on the dairy industry for going on 60 years.