Posted: 10.22.2010

The controversy over large dairy operations in the state might make some run for cover - but not Larson Acres in Evansville.

Sandy Larson, one of the family members that helps run the 1,400 cow operation, says the farms goal is top quality milk production - and helping the general public understand how they do it - and why animal care is critical - has become an important part of the business. 

Larson Acres has six Larson families spanning five generations all working together.  The family has been farming in the Town of Magnolia for nearly 90 years. The operation began with just 80 acres and six cows and now has grown to nearly 4,000 acres of agricultural land and a 1,400 cow dairy operation.  Not all of which have been without conflict.

Sandy Larson tells Pam Jahnke, its that growth that has encouraged them to open their farm to ALL visitors.  She says the family agreed to try and stage annual visitor events at the farm to help their neighbors, and anyone that wants to learn the truth about larger dairy operations - a chance to actually visit a facility.

Larson Acres has an Open House scheduled for Sunday, October 31st from 11:00 a.m. - 4 p.m.  Sandy Larson says the whole family's invited.  Some of the tour highlights include:

walking through the cross ventilated free stall barn
visiting the milking parlor
getting the real view of their calf barns
and seeing how they recylce with their sand/solid separation

For directions or more details about the farm itself, Sandy Larson suggests their web site or following the farm on Facebook. Their web site is www.larsonacres.com.

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