Applications are now being accepted for the 2003 Badger Dairy Camp, June 12 through June 14 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 $89 registration fee covers dorm, food and camper activities. Grants and private sponsorships fund about half of the actual program expense.

The action-packed schedule includes showmanship and judging contests, a fitting clinic, radioactive bowling and other recreational sports, workshops on dairy topics, and campus tours.

Corey Geiger, associate editor at Hoard”s Dairyman magazine and contest superintendent for the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest, and emeritus professor Dave Dickson are the camp”s other lead instructors.

“The camp is about fun and energy,” said Halbach. “Dr. Dave and Corey provide 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 fourth 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 Youth 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 or e-mail him at: tjhalbach@wisc.edu.