FIELD TRIP FAQs
What size of group can you host?
We can typically host about 50 students at a time over a 2-hour period. For larger groups, we suggest doing it in two sessions. This varies on age and intern availability as we work with student interns.
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How long does the tour last?
On average, groups spend about 1.5-2 hours at the Judy McCarty Learning Center depending on the size of the group. If there is a time frame we need to work within, let us know at the time of scheduling.
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How much does it cost?
Thanks to support from the Southwest Dairy Association, there's currently no admission fee. ​
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What grade is appropriate to bring?
We’ve hosted Pre-K to College students. Our displays include something for all ages, but we can plan additional age appropriate activities to ensure every age group has a great learning experience.
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Can we have lunch there?
While we only provide a yogurt snack, you are welcome to enjoy a packed lunch. If you plan to eat lunch here, please notify us prior to your field trip so we can plan for additional time. ​
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Can chaperones attend the field trip?
Yes! If you choose to bring chaperones, please include them in your group's headcount.
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How can I schedule a visit?
Contact us with questions or to schedule a visit.
Email: learningcenter@mccartyfamilyfarms.com
Phone: 785-269-3022 ext 804
FIELD TRIP OVERVIEW
Each of these will be tailored to the group's age level. We've hosted PreK-College classes.
DAIRY LEARNING CENTER
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Hand milk a fake cow
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Play interactive games
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View our milk trucks being loaded
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Explore the dairy industry and dairy facts with our interactive grocery wall
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Enjoy a complimentary yogurt
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Grades 2nd-5th will play a grocery game identifying which common products contain dairy.
MILKING CAROUSEL
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Learn how our cows are milked
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Gain a better understanding of the milking process
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View the cows being milked through windows and step out onto our viewing deck.
Note: Students must remain quiet while on the viewing deck.
YOGURT SNACK
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A Danone yogurt is included with your visit.
BARN TOUR
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30 minute shuttle tour
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Day in the life of a cow
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Cow nutrition
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Cow comfort
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Manure management
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Processing plant & water reclamation

FIELD TRIP PROTOCOL
Teachers and chaperones are expected to stay with students at all times and assist in maintaining a quiet volume and positive learning environment. Group leaders are expected to have their group divided as instructed by a Learning Center Team Member prior to their arrival.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Before You Arrive
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Please divide your group into the number indicated by a Learning Center Team Member.
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Discuss maintaining a quiet and respectful environment throughout the visit, but especially near the cows.​
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Arriving at Judy McCarty Dairy Learning Center
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Enter north on Thomas County Road 32 from US Highway 83.
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Cross the railroad tracks and turn west.
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Look for the mural and drive up the curved driveway.
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Enter through the door under the Judy McCarty Dairy Learning Center Sign.
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Send in one Teacher/Chaperone, before the students to sign in the whole group.
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Where to Park
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Busses may unload in front of learning center entrance and back into bus parking lot
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