Applications are due by April 15
PATTON, Pa. – Dairy farmers in Pennsylvania and three neighboring states are invited to apply for the 2026 Dairy of Distinction Award. Applications must be submitted by April 15th and need to be signed by the dairy farmer.
The Dairy of Distinction Program highlights the belief that attractive, well-maintained farms help promote consumer confidence in the wholesomeness of milk and strengthen the reputation of the dairy industry overall. Farms with the highest scores will receive an 18” x 24” Dairy of Distinction sign to proudly display on their farm.
Producers with generational transfers or new ownership are encouraged to reapply, even if the farm has previously earned the award.
“Applying for the Dairy of Distinction award helps further promote the dairy industry,” said Galen Kopp, president of the Board of Directors. Jim Barnett, who also serves on the Board, added: “It shows the public that dairy farmers care about presenting a positive image of the wholesome products they produce.”
Before scoring begins, milk handlers will verify milk quality. Roadside judging will take place in May, with evaluators assessing features under the control of the dairy producer.
Since 1987, Pennsylvania has recognized more than 915 dairy farms through the Dairy of Distinction Program. Pennsylvania participates as part of the Northeast Dairy Farm Beautification Program, which includes New York, New Jersey, and Maryland.
Contacts for each state’s application program are listed below.
Pennsylvania
- Ashley Hoover
- 601 Carroll Road
- Patton, PA 16668
- 717-513-7284
- amh5151@gmail.com
Maryland
- Nicole Forsythe
- Maryland Dairy Shrine
- 10226 Downsville Pike
- Hagerstown, MD 21740
- mddairyshrine@gmail.com
New Jersey
- Joy Ricker
- 91 Beemer Rd
- Sussex, NJ 07461
- (973) 875-4803
- joyricker@gmail.com
New York
