USDA Secretary Vilsack tours Durrer Dairy Aug. 26, 2009
The Durrer Dairy in Modesto was the setting for a late afternoon tour Wednesday Aug. 26, 2009 as USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack dropped in for a look at a modern California dairy. Vilsack was joined by Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan, California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary A.G. Kawamura and Rep. Dennis Cardoza (D-Merced) as they wrapped up a busy day that began with a meeting at a Fresno area dairy, followed by a town hall forum attended by several hundred farmers at the Stanislaus County Ag Center. It was a family occasion for the Western United Dairymen members as father Leo Durrer was joined by son Chris, his wife Ellen and sons Clayton and Cole in hosting the visitors.

Clayton Durrer is intrigued by the calf pens.

Rep. Dennis Cardoza and USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack listen to Chris and Leo Durrer discuss their dairy operations.

Clayton gets the attention of Secretary Vilsack as Chris and Ellen, holding Cole, look on.

Clayton gets a high five from Secretary Vilsack.

Chris explains milk parlor operations to Vilsack and Cardoza.

Chris walks through the barn with Kawamura and Vilsack.

Chris Durrer talks with USDA Secretary Vilsack and CDFA Secretary AG. Kawamura.

WUD President Ray Souza talks with Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan and Secretary Vilsack.

Secretary Vilsak talks with Rep. Cardoza and Leo and Chris Durrer.

Ice cold milk was enjoyed at the end of the tour.

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Clayton Durrer is intrigued by the calf pens.