Submitted photo Erma Wolcott is Chautauqua County’s Dairy Ambassador. She recently graduated from Chautauqua Lake Central School.

Chautauqua County Dairy Ambassador Erma Wolcott is on a mission to spread accurate information on the dairy industry.

Growing up on a family owned dairy farm, the recent Chautauqua Lake Central School graduate said her experiences have shown her why it is important for people to know about dairy and where their food comes from.

“I decided to be a dairy ambassador because I love the dairy industry and the people in it,” Wolcott said. “Through high school, I have also realized how many people have been misinformed about the care of the animals and the milk.”

Dairy Ambassador was formerly known as the Dairy Princess before the name was changed last year to be able to encompass young men into the program. As a dairy ambassador, Wolcott’s job is to interact with the public and talk to them about the importance of dairy in their lives. This includes teaching them about the health benefits and why they should be consuming dairy products. Spreading accurate information about the dairy industry is why Wolcott decided to become a dairy ambassador.

“It means being able to educate about and promote the dairy industry,” she said.

After graduating from Chautauqua Lake, Wolcott has been accepted to Cornell University where she will be studying animal science.

Living on a dairy farm and being a dairy ambassador has motivated Wolcott to be more involved in the dairy industry. Wolcott said the local farming community is very supportive of each other.

“The support that flows through this industry is what motivates me,” Wolcott said. “Everyone in this industry supports one another and helps when there are problems. Having such a supportive community of farmers around makes me want to give back to this giving community.”