By Blake Jackson
Forty members of the Penn State Dairy Science Club experienced a unique learning journey during their spring break by traveling to the Netherlands to gain insight into the country’s dairy industry and culture.
Accompanied by Chad Dechow and Dale Olver, the students visited farms of all sizes and key industry facilities. Their educational journey included a stop at the Dairy Campus in Leeuwarden, a hub for dairy sustainability research.
Club President Jay Bratton reflected, “Getting to broaden our horizons by experiencing a variety of agricultural practices in a different country was really something special.”
The group explored the Coöperatie Rundvee Verbetering Breeding Center and Abmah Farm, home to nearly 400 cows milked by robotic systems. They also toured Fullwood JOZ, where they watched robotic milkers being assembled.
Students were exposed to manure management, milk production standards, and environmental regulations, expanding their understanding of international farm operations. The trip also included cultural visits to Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans, and the Royal Holland Flower Auction.
Madison Benfer, who helped plan the trip, enjoyed exploring both industry sites and cultural attractions. “My favorite part was seeing the flower auction and learning how cut flowers get distributed around the world,” she shared.
The trip was planned with student involvement and cost-efficiency in mind. It is a part of the club’s goal to combine leadership, community service, and global education.
Deanna Behring praised the Netherlands for its innovation and role in global agriculture, calling it a prime destination for learning and cultural exchange.
The trip helped students connect with global agricultural practices while building stronger bonds within their club.
Photo Credit: penn-state-college-of-ag-sciences
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Dairy Cattle