DAIRY ST R
March 9, 2024
First Section
March 19 - 21, 2024
Denny Sanford Premier Center • Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Where dairy in the Central Plains comes together
The one-stop spot for leading industry innovations Central Plains Dairy Expo continues to offer education, networking By Maria Bichler
maria.b@dairystar.com
Once again, the Central Plains Dairy Expo plans to offer dairy producers and industry professionals alike a chance for educational offerings and network experiences March 19-21 at the Denny Sanford Premier Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. “Given the ongoing changes in the dairy industry and potential legislative shifts in the farm bill for 2024, attending this year’s Central Plains Dairy Expo is essential,” said Kris Bousquet, Central Plains Dairy Association president. “The education and networking opportunities are sure to make a signicant impact on your business. I look forward to seeing you there.”
The annual expo will feature nearly 300 exhibitors as well as 65 educational sessions, including sessions available in Spanish. The free Welcome Reception is available to all dairy producers, starting at 5 p.m. March 19. Entertainment is provided by country music artist Rodney Atkins, and complimentary appetizers, cheese charcuteries and a variety of ice cream will be available. Attendees must register to attend. “To ensure a seamless experience, we ask that everyone registers online ahead of time on our website,” said Renee Brod, director of member services of CPDE. “If you register online, you get a name badge, and the name badge gets you into everything for the two and a half days — all the great things CPDE offers.” Prior to past expos, there will not be a Central Plains Dairy Foundation auction at this year’s Welcome Reception. The Lon and Kathy Tonneson Scholarship will be announced during the Welcome Reception.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
A�endees of the 2023 Central Plains Dairy Expo take in an Ed Shed session in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The Ed Shed offers 30 minute-presenta�ons with a speaker who is an expert in their topic on the arena oor of the Denny Sanford Premier Center.
“We are excited about awarding the scholarship live,” Brod said. “That is something we have never done before. The scholarship honors Lon and Kathy for the great work they put into establishing this expo
and bringing it to how fantastic it is today. They really did a great job in growing Central Plains Dairy Expo.” In addition to educational offerings, CPDE offers attendees the chance to connect with fellow pro-
ducers during such events as the trade show, ag prayer breakfast, wine and cheese reception, pancake breakfast and beer garden — all of which is free to registered attendees. Turn to PREVIEW | Page 2