Hardee County 4-H launched its summer programs with a flavorful start at Dairy Camp. The day began at Dakin Dairy Farms in Myakka City, Florida. Youth participants took an immersive journey through the dairy process—from barn to bottle.

The morning started with a guided tour of the farm. First stop: the cow pens. Campers met Dakin’s grass-fed herd. They learned how a year-round diet of fresh-cut grass helps produce high-quality milk.

Next was the milking parlor. Campers watched as cows were milked. Each cow took just five to seven minutes, which was faster than most expected.

One exciting part of the tour was Dakin Dairy’s on-site bottling facility. It’s the only farm in Florida with its own milk plant. This allows them to bottle milk within one to two hours of milking. This means that fresh milk can be served at their café or sent to local markets the same day. A true farm-to-table experience!

After the tour, it was time for hands-on fun. Campers made their own butter and enjoyed it on crackers. They also made creamy ice cream and took part in a cheese-making workshop. Luis Rodriguez, UF/IFAS Extension Small Farms Agent from Polk County, led the session.

Next came the “cheese investigation” game. Campers tasted and compared three types of Dakin cheese, learning about their flavor and texture.

The day ended on a sweet note with Dakin Dairy’s famous chocolate milk.

With a mix of farming, science, and fun, Dairy Camp gave campers a memorable start to summer. They left with a new appreciation for Florida’s dairy industry—and for the journey milk takes from cow to carton.

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