Hey kids! Take your parents and friends on a behind-the-scenes tour of Cornell's Animal Science Teaching & Research Center in Dryden, N.Y., on Saturday, Oct. 5. This free open house offers tours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. "This is a chance for families to see dairy cattle, beef cattle and sheep," said Harold Hintz, Cornell professor and chair of the animal science department. "We'll even show you how cows are milked."

The research facility tours are designed for a non-agricultural audience, where families can talk to professors and researchers about animal science. Showcasing the feedstuffs and care of the animals, the tour will show visitors how cows make milk and how sheep's wool can become a favorite sweater.

Located on 2,600 acres just outside Cornell's Ithaca campus, the research facility supports 700 Holstein dairy cattle, of which 400 are for milking. The research focuses on improved dairy management and nutrition.

Families can see a "double ten" milking center with electronic identification, milk meters and automatic take-offs.

"At this facility, animal care and comfort is easily accommodated to enhance animal health and research success," Hintz said.

The Teaching & Research Center is located five miles south of Dryden, off Route 38. From Ithaca, Take Route 13 north to the Village of Dryden, then south on Route 38 for five miles. The facility has ample free parking.