40 events. 35,728 visitors. Nearly 3 million reached through media and social channels!
The Mobile Dairy Experience (MDE) has officially wrapped up its inaugural season, and what a season it was! Over the course of 9,000 miles, our team brought the farm to communities across New York, engaging people of all ages in the story of dairy and New York agriculture.
If you’re interested in having the MDE visit you in 2026, inquire here!
Where We Went
Over the past several months, the MDE rolled into communities large and small, delivering hands-on dairy education at a wide variety of events, including:
- School district visits
- County and state fairs
- Children’s museums
- Food and cheese festivals
- Farm open houses and ag events
- Queens County Farm Museum
Each stop was unique. In rural areas, teachers tied classroom lessons to the experience. In urban neighborhoods, children and families met a calf for the very first time. From cow to carton, every visit offered students, families, and consumers a chance to learn about dairy production, animal care, and the hardworking farmers behind it all.
It was always a special treat when a calf and a local farmer made an appearance – on many occasions, the visitors treated them like superstars and expressed their appreciation for the contributions they make to their community.
What We Achieved
Season 1 wasn’t just about the miles; it was about the moments and connections.
- 30+ media outlets shared the MDE story, helping us reach far beyond event sites.
- Social media buzz came from more intimate local groups like CCE Chemung County 4-H and Spencer-Van Etten FFA, to larger platforms like SUNY Cobleskill, Syracuse Zoo, and NBC Watertown.
- Estimated reach: 2.5–3 million people through posts, shares, and tags!
The online excitement mirrored the energy we saw in person. People were talking about dairy, asking questions, and engaging in meaningful conversations about agriculture.
And the numbers speak volumes:
- 69/100 average rating for initial dairy knowledge
- 90/100 average rating of the overall MDE experience
- 697,939 impressions and counting!
We even heard throughout the tour from friends and family who spotted the MDE on the highway or parked in town! Proof that the presence of the New York dairy was being felt far and wide.
What People Are Saying
Once we wrapped up the tour, we sifted through the hundreds of positive comments we received. There were many like this one from school teachers, “The kids couldn’t stop talking about meeting the cows and learning how milk is made. This was hands-on learning like we’ve never had before!”
— Local teacher, Spencer-Van Etten School District
There were also many comments that showed consumers gaining an appreciation for the work our awesome farmers do and the care they provide for their animals.
“I didn’t realize all the care and attention that goes into dairy farming. The MDE makes it real and relatable.”
— Parent, Queens County
Moments That Made Memories
This first tour season gave us more than just stats; it gave us stories that we will tell for years to come!
Some made us laugh. Others made us proud, like this comment: “The staff are approachable, polite, and knowledgeable.”
And one moment truly surprised us all:
Yes, you read that right! A couple got engaged inside the MDE!!! (BTW: If this was you, please reach out to us! We are so curious and would love to follow up with you!)
Collaborations That Made It Possible
The success of Season 1 was built on strong partnerships with organizations that share our mission:
- New York Agriculture in the Classroom – educational outreach
- Milk for Health – event collaboration
- American Dairy Association Northeast – event support and Ambassadors
- Dairy Management Inc. – data and strategic insights
- Burt Media – promotional content
- Corning Place Communications – media engagement
Together, we expanded our reach and deepened our impact.
Why It Matters
The MDE is more than a mobile exhibit. It is a bridge between farmers and communities. Visitors left not just with facts, but with a deeper appreciation for the care, science, and dedication behind every glass of milk, bowl of ice cream, and wheel of cheese.
By reaching local families in person and hundreds of thousands online, the MDE is building lifelong connections to agriculture and inspiring the next generation of farmers and ag advocates.
Bring the MDE to Your Community
Want to bring the Mobile Dairy Experience to your school, event, or organization?
Click here to inquire about hosting the MDE in 2026!
*Submitting an application does not guarantee a visit from the MDE during the 2026 tour.
Every stop makes a difference. Every conversation builds understanding. Every person we reach helps grow appreciation for New York agriculture.
Thank you to each and every partner, educator, volunteer, event organizer, and attendee who made this first season such a success. We can’t wait to hit the road again next year!
Read more about the Mobile Dairy Experience:
