In regards to COVID-19 and public health concerns, I have been contacted by many CDPG groups seeking guidance on plans for National Dairy Month breakfasts and events. While I wish I had a crystal ball to foresee how the future will really play out, given the current COVID-19 situation, we have made the difficult decision to not send out National Dairy Month kits and event support materials as encouraging social gatherings would be insensitive. The health and safety of our communities is a top priority, and we are committed to doing our part to adhere to CDC recommendations and stop the spread of the virus.
National Dairy Month 2020 is still an opportunity to celebrate Wisconsin dairy farmers and encourage consumers to buy local because our dairy farmers continue to work tirelessly to care for their animals, and protect our water and soil all while producing fresh, nutritious milk.
Here are ideas and options to keep the spirit of National Dairy Month in your communities:
Plan your event and plan to postpone.
Based on current news, we’re all unsure as to when the social gathering ban will be lifted, so work with your host farm/location to determine is this is a viable option.
Tie to dairy dates like National Farmer’s Day (October 12) and World School Milk Day (September 30th)
Bring the dairy good to existing events later in the year and begin advertising your 2021 event early!
For extra inspiration, don’t miss the March 30th Wisconsin Dairy Excellence Award Webinar – Community Events and Retail Promotions
If you have to cancel, plan to be bigger and better in 2021!
Do the Unexpected – Celebrate social dairy distancing with unique approaches to National Dairy Month.
Host a drive-through dairy breakfast similar to how restaurants are currently operating. (note, this option must align with CDC group gathering recommendations)
Partner with local restaurants to promote dairy carry-out promotions.
Surprise and Delight dairy farmers/supporters with cheese curds, chocolate milk or dairy swag and share their stories on social media, local newspapers or video.
Get Social, as in social media. Utilize content from Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin to celebrate our Wisconsin Dairy farmers and remind consumers to buy local dairy and support our Wisconsin Dairy Farmers.
On a positive note, we are still moving full-speed ahead with non-gathering related National Dairy Month plans. You can expect to receive social media content, guides to sharing the dairy story with your local newspapers and media, and in an increased focus on messaging to buy local dairy supported with great recipe content by April 3.
We will be monitoring the situation and will work to support your efforts. We look forward to celebrating the joys of gathering with loved ones when that time comes. If you have any questions in the meantime, don’t hesitate to reach out by responding to this email.
Stay healthy, Beth Schaefer and your friends at Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin
UPDATE: Josh Scramlin spoke with Beth Schaefer. To hear their conversation, click the play button below:
Leave a Reply