Grant Itle said he’s been a part of the program for as long as he can remember.

 

This year he brought eight dairy cows to show at the fair.

 

He said it’s a lot of work to prepare them to be showed.

 

According to the Center for Dairy Excellence, Pennsylvania ranks 5th in the nation for milk production.

 

Because it’s a major resource, Itle said it’s important the cows are healthy, so we can do the same.

 

“If you put good food into the cow then you’re determined to get good milk out of the cow,” Itle said.

 

He said it’s a lot of work; from cleanings and feeding, right down to the milk production.

 

Last year the state lost nearly 500 dairy farms, according to c-d-e.

 

Carissa Westerick, with Vale Wood Farms said making appearances at events like the fair are good for business.

 

“We think it’s so important for consumers to visit the animal barns and see those animals that end up producing food products for them,” Westerick said.

 

Grant said, despite any challenges the industry may have, he plans to stick with it.

 

“There’s not a lot of dairy people in Cambria County and to be one of those people is special to be a part of it,” Itle said.