Download the PCC-DBII Dairy Scoop, February 2026 in PDF format
Highlights from Gathering 2.0
Jan 22 – 24, 2026 – Oregon
The second PCC get-together of grantees and partners was a great success!
- 50+ attendees from all over the region;
- Dozens of groundbreaking ideas; and,
- Unforgettable moments of connection and inspiration during tours, tastings, and travel.
Collaboration is our superpower! Thanks to ALL participants who shared resources, assistance, and strategies, assembled above for a OSU Portland tour.
Wheyward Spirit
“The biggest realization is that waste isn’t waste. By taking a holistic look at our food system, we are bridging gaps in the existing supply chain and handcrafting a product that adds value to our producers and dustomers.” Emily Darchuk, Wheyward Spirit Founder and Gathering 2.0 presenter.
Salt & Straw
Juan Cummings shared how Salt & Straw is building its business model for cross-industry innovation and impacts, including leading as a values-led sourcing partner for like-minded companies and partnering to create custom sustainable cocktails served at events.
TMK Creamery and Distillery
TMK Creamery and Distillery presents an an array of cheeses from farm “Cowlebrities”.
Fraga Farmstead Creamery
Lise Bueschen-Monahan of Fraga Farmstead Creamery highlighted many benefits of producing skincare products.
Dreamies Creamery
Dreamies Creamery was featured for new products: Sheep’s milk ice cream that is lactose-friendly, gluten-free, and dye-free, an inclusive alternative for dairy-sensitive consumers.
Connect with some of dairy’s best (and most fun) Places and People from Gathering 2.0
OSU Arbuthnot Dairy Center, Corvallis
OSU Food Innovation Center, Portland
On the Horizon
Feb. 24-26: Shell Beach, CA
Dairy Products, Process & Packaging Innovation Conference
Topics include: Dairy Industry Trends; challenges and opportunities;
market place health and wellness update; protein innovation;
opportunities for dairy export expansion; new California dairy
research innovators; and, hot topics in dairy processing.
Register here.
Feb. 26: Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
Dairy Products Technology Center 40th Anniversary Open House and Dinner Reception
This milestone event is not only a reflection on four decades of innovation, but also a look ahead to the next 40 years of research, education, and industry partnership. Register here.
March 18: Hotel Petaluma, Petaluma, CA
DAIRY 101: Dairy Basics and Sanitation Best Practices
Subject matter specialists will be sharing their experience and expertise.
TO REGISTER – Please send your name, organization name, title and contact information to: nvanbuskirk@cmab.net