On The Trail, Day 9–Udder Fascination

The marquee attractions of New York livestock–dairy cattle–return to the New York State Fair, taking up every inch of the 92,000-square-foot Exhibit Center. Farmers bring their cows in every summer for judging and competition, allowing visitors to stroll past these bovine superstars, maybe taking a photo or two or reaching out to pat their furry shoulders

Both youth and adult exhibitors come in from all over the Empire state to display thousands of animals including such breeds as Guernsey, Holstein, Brown Swiss, Jersey, Ayrshire and Shorthorn in barns on the grounds. The tradition goes back to the earliest fairs when farmers brought animals to market for sale. The animals were compared to each other, eventually leading to the more formalized judging done today.

The judging and competitions are open to the public, but most fair-goers simply enjoy strolling the hay-strewn floors at a leisurely pace. There’s also an opportunity to observe milking take place in the modern, glass-enclosed parlor.

The sprawling structure becomes a temporary home to farm owners and families while their animals are exhibited. Keeping an eye on their animals makes dairy farmers available to field questions from curious visitors. People walking through the barn often stop to ask questions about the cows that make such a profound contribution to their lives or the industry. Common questions include “Do You have to milk them daily?” and “Is this cow pregnant?”

Although exhibitors may enjoy their time at the Fair, farming is their livelihood and business comes first. There are more than trophies and ribbons at stake when judging takes place. A cow’s value will actually increase if she wins in her class.

The primping that farmers do on their cows may make it seem like a beauty pageant, but the prettiest bossy isn’t necessarily most likely to take a blue ribbon. The judges are looking for a cow that will produce a lot of milk over a long period of time. A panel of experts scrutinizes the animals for several qualities that make it the most perfect example of the species in the ring that day.

Baby calves are very popular, both in the main barn and in the calf birthing tent, down past the Expo Center. Watching the actual births is not for everybody, but the newborns are irresistibly cute, photogenic and often within petting range. That adorable factor makes a visit worth the effort.

Just across from the main cow barn is the Dairy Products Building, home to the Fair’s signature artwork, the butter sculpture. About 800 pounds of real New York butter is carved into statuary with each year featuring a different theme and design.

A few feet away, customers flock to the milk bar where chocolate, white and sometimes strawberry milk are sold in 25-cent cups. Ice cream and cheese vendors and the popular Belgian waffle stand are building mainstays.

Young Hearts

Stage shows, science projects, artworks, journalism, dog training, livestock raising and lots more are featured by the bright minds from across New York that are featured daily in the Youth Building.

While participation presents great opportunities for the 4-H kids, they love to involve visitors in petting their dogs, trying out their projects, creating artwork and, most famously, holding baby chicks.

It’s a thrilling and delightful opportunity for the youngsters and their enthusiasm is contagious. Be sure to pay a visit–you’ll leave impressed.