Each summer, the New York Animal Agriculture Coalition (NYAAC) brings a one-of-a-kind experience to the Great New York State Fair in Syracuse, the Dairy Cow Birthing Center. Now, in its 12th year, this educational exhibit allows fairgoers to witness the miracle of life as dairy cows give birth right before their eyes. But what many may not realize is that behind every successful birth, every teachable moment, and every “wow” from the crowd, there’s a network of dedicated dairy farms making it all possible.
These are our host farms, real New York dairy farms that supply the exhibit with very pregnant cows ready to calve during the event. Their role is absolutely vital, and their commitment goes far beyond just dropping off a cow at the fairgrounds.
Here’s why our host farms are the true backbone of the Dairy Cow Birthing Center.
The First Step in Milk Production
The birth of a calf is the starting point of every dairy cow’s journey into milk production. It’s a major biological milestone and a moment of transformation, not just for the cow, but for dairy farmers who have cared for her through every stage. Thanks to our host farms, fairgoers get to witness this remarkable process in real time, and walk away with a deeper understanding of where milk truly begins.
This firsthand experience builds a bridge between consumers and the often-unseen world of animal agriculture, turning curiosity into trust and questions into meaningful conversation.
Farmers as Educators and Advocates
The cows may be the stars of the show, but it’s their human caretakers who make the story come alive. Farmers from our host farms and from dairies across the state are on-site every day, ready to answer questions, explain what’s happening during labor and delivery, and talk openly about how they care for their animals back home. It’s a chance for the public to hear directly from those who live and breathe dairy farming.
Meet This Year’s Incredible Host Farms
We are thrilled to welcome our six host farms for this year’s event:
- Spruce Haven Farms, Union Springs, NY – Pioneers in research and on-farm innovation; their contribution to the industry is second to none.
- EZ-Acres, Homer, NY – A long-time leader in sustainability and soil health, this farm combines innovation with outstanding animal care.
- Elmer Richards & Sons, Skaneatles, NY – With deep family roots and a focus on quality, this farm reflects the best of New York’s dairy tradition.
- Will-O-Crest Farm, Clifton Springs, NY – Known for their passionate advocacy and progressive approach to dairy management.
- DeBoover Family Farms, Phelps, NY – A farm where generations work side-by-side to raise healthy cows and high-quality milk.
- Venture Farms, Fabius, NY – A forward-thinking farm where dedication to animal care, innovation, and community involvement drives everything they do.
Each of these farms has generously agreed to share their cows, and their stories, with the hundreds of thousands of people who walk through the Birthing Center each year.
Thank you, Host Farms!
Follow our 2025 Host Farms on social media to stay connected after the fair!
