Applications are now being accepted for the 2002 Badger Dairy Camp, June 13 through June 15 at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

At Dairy Camp, young people between 12 and 18 learn about dairy fitting, showmanship, and judging while they develop life skills in self-confidence, teamwork and sportsmanship, according to camp founder and director Ted Halbach, a UW-Madison/Extension dairy science specialist.

The all-inclusive $79 registration fee covers dorm, food and camper activities. Grants and private sponsorships fund about half of the actual program expense.

Wisconsin Secretary of Agriculture Jim Harsdorf will kick off the camp as the featured speaker on “Mentors Night.” The rest of the action-packed schedule includes showmanship and judging contests, radioactive bowling and other recreational sports, a live cattle auction and many workshops on dairy topics.

Corey Geiger, associate editor at Hoard”s Dairyman magazine and contest superintendent for the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest, is a new addition to the camp”s instructional staff. He joins Halbach and emeritus professor Dave Dickson as a lead instructor.

“The camp is about fun and energy,” said Halbach. “Corey adds a good dose of both along with a great knowledge of the dairy industry and youth programming.”

Halbach expects the camp to reach the enrollment capacity of 110 campers for the third straight year. Applicants are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis.

For an on-line application or more information about Badger Dairy Camp, go to the Wisconsin Dairy website. Applications are also available through your county University of Wisconsin-Extension office.

You can also contact Halbach directly about the camp at (608) 263-3305.