Summer Interns Join the Team From Michigan, North Carolina, and New York’s Finger Lakes
Adirondack Farms, a family dairy farm with two locations in Clinton County, has attracted rising stars in animal agriculture and agronomy to the North Country for the summer. Three interns joined the Adirondack Farms team in May and will continue learning and exploring various aspects of the dairy farm business through August 2024.
“We’re always working to ensure that best management practices are being implemented in the field to protect the environment and the most efficient technologies and systems are being used to keep the business running smoothly so we can remain viable in a competitive marketplace,” said Emily Starceski, manager and head of the internship program at Adirondack Farms. “Welcoming the next generation of dairy industry leaders to our farm is an opportunity for both our team and the interns to learn from each other, all while promoting the endless opportunities the North Country has to offer.”
During their time on the farm, some of what the interns will experience and learn about include:
- Environmentally sustainable field practices that are backed by science and proven to protect soil health and structure while preventing runoff.
- Technologies on the farm that improve efficiencies in the barns, milking parlors, and fields.
- Herd health, partnerships with certified veterinarians, and calf and heifer management.
- Dairy business finances, equipment mechanics and maintenance, and community outreach.
Adirondack Farms Intern Lily Schaap said, “While I grew up in North Carolina, I’m currently in my third year at Penn State University studying animal science and agriculture. I applied for the Adirondack Farms internship because I knew the farm prioritized environmental stewardship, animal care, and the people they worked with, which is the kind of place I could see myself working. I’m excited to get more involved in the dairy industry and learn everything I can from the Adirondack team.”
Adirondack Farms Intern Matthew Haier said, “At SUNY Morrisville, I’m studying ag business development, and I knew an internship on a progressive family dairy farm would help me gain the experience needed to enter the dairy industry once I graduate. I’m interested in anatomy, herd management, and the technology used to care for the cows. Adirondack Farms utilizes the latest technology and best practices to ensure cows are healthy, and the land is protected. That’s why I applied for the internship and I’m thrilled to be part of the team for the summer in the North Country.”
Adirondack Farms Intern Sadie Brearley said, “I was raised on my family’s dairy farm in Portland, Michigan, which is where my first love for the dairy community blossomed. As a Michigan State University student studying animal science, I knew I wanted to gain hands-on experience at a progressive dairy farm. I look forward to honing my work ethic and passion to learn more about New York’s dairy industry.”
Lily, Matthew, and Sadie will also enjoy the North Country during their time in Clinton County this summer, including local restaurants, venues, parks, and other activities. We look forward to showing off all that our community has to offer.
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Adirondack Farms
A family dairy farm located in Peru, New York – Adirondack Farms works every day to prioritize the comfort and care of the cows; the skills, and success of the team; and the protection and preservation of the environment. Adirondack Farms aims to produce the highest-quality milk for consumers, and by using science-based management practices to recycle and reuse materials, the farm is continuously working to be a good neighbor and reduce its carbon footprint. For additional information on Adirondack Farms, please visit adirondackfarms.net or follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @adirondackfarms.