Great Turnout for Grand Opening of Wuethrich Family-Grassland Dairy Center of Excellence

Monday, October 23rd, 2023 -- 11:01 AM

The UW-River Falls College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences had a great turn out on Friday for the Grand Opening of the Wuethrich Family-Grassland Dairy Center of Excellence.

The amount of private funding this project garnered is unprecedented at UW-River Falls. Chancellor Gallo highlighted that industry partnership in her remarks, “when we needed your support you were there, when we needed your guidance you were there.”

Dean of CAFES, Mike Orth said, “we are not only celebrating the establishment of the Wuethrich Family-Grassland Dairy Center of Excellence but also the commitment to develop future leaders in the dairy industry.”

John Umhoefer, President of the Wisconsin Cheesemakers Association called the renovated facility the “new jewel of the University” and gave credit to Michelle Farner, the Dairy Plant Manager, for her dedication and perseverance through the extended renovation process.

Before joining his brother Tayt for the ribbon-cutting, Trevor Wuethrich, President of Grassland Dairy, acknowledged the many Wuethrich family members present, and how honored they are to have their name associated with this facility.

Following the ribbon-cutting the crowd moved indoors to tour the plant and enjoy some refreshments and conversation with old friends. Since they can’t quite make their own cheese yet, Ellsworth Creamery stepped up to donate cheese for the reception.

They send out a hug thank you to all their industry partners. And thanks to the many alumni that came back to UWRF to celebrate this milestone with them.

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