Farms are increasingly turning to cow cuddling as a new revenue stream amid decreasing dairy prices
Donald Scherber bought a Minnesota dairy farm in 1958. His son, John, bought it from him in 1995 and will probably pass it down to his children.
For decades, the family has made a living selling the milk of their dairy cows. But recently, Scherber’s Morningstar Dairy has become known in the Minneapolis area for another business: cow cuddling.
Donald Scherber’s grandchildren, Quinci Schmidt and Caleb Scherber, created the side business as a fun revenue source, charging visitors to cuddle their calves for 30 minutes at a time — while classical music plays in a pen.
Cow cuddling isn’t new: It grew in popularity when people were seeking connection during the coronavirus pandemic. But it has taken on new meaning in recent months for farmers who are looking for extra revenue sources amid decreasing dairy prices in the United States and other parts of the world.