Does milk really come from the grocery store? Of course, the answer is no, but you would be surprised to know how many people think that way. June is National Dairy Month in the United States. It is during this time that we need to show appreciation to our dairy farmers, and the sacrifices they have to make to ensure that we have a safe and abundant supply of milk.

The dairy industry is an important economic factor in Jenkins County and Georgia.

The numbers surrounding Georgia’s dairy business have changed dramatically since 1945. In 1945, there were 6,040 dairies in Georgia, decreasing to 408 in 2000. However, the pounds milk/cow has skyrocketed. In 1945, the average pounds of milk/cow was 3,150, increasing to 16,436 lbs/cow in 2000. These changes are due to improved genetics and improved production practices. The total value of Georgia’s dairy industry is currently $259,100,000. The 2004 Farm Gate value for milk in Jenkins County totaled $8,119,200.00. These numbers do not include jobs dairies provide to our communities. The majority of Georgia’s dairy industry is located below I-20, and 40% of Georgia’s milk goes to Florida. Dairy farming for a living is a challenging yet rewarding way to make a living. We hope you will take a moment and appreciate all the hard work our dairy farmers go through to produce a gallon of milk!

4-H Summer Programs

Jenkins County 4-H will be going to Stardust Skate Center in Augusta June 9. We will leave at 10:30 Thursday morning and return at 4:30. The cost for skating is $10.

We are still registering 4-H’ers for the Build and Scoop class, Splash in the Boro, and Explore and Dig at Magnolia Springs. The Dolphin Cruise/River Street seems to be the hot item this summer. We still have some spaces left, but it is nearing capacity. Please call the 4-H Office (982-4408) if you want your name added to the list for any of these programs.

Junior Camp

Letters for 4-H Junior Camp at Camp Fortson went out this week (7th & 8th grades). If you did not receive your letter, please call the 4-H Office immediately. We will be departing for Junior Camp June 20.