National Milk Producers Federation: A Key Player in the U.S. Dairy Industry

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) is strategically located in Arlington, Virginia, providing it with proximity to federal agencies in Washington, D.C. This strategic positioning is crucial for its influential role in shaping dairy policies and engaging in trade negotiations.

Significant Events and Achievements

The NMPF has been instrumental in increasing milk consumption across the United States through innovative product development and strategic marketing campaigns. The organization has actively addressed misleading claims by plant-based beverage companies and voiced concerns over potential trade retaliations from countries such as Mexico, Canada, and China. Key figures like Jaime Castaneda, Executive Vice President for Policy Development and Strategy, and former President and CEO Jim Mulhern have modernized Federal Milk Marketing Orders to ensure fair pricing for dairy producers.

Future Plans and Initiatives

Looking forward, the NMPF is committed to advocating for policies that benefit dairy farmers, with a strong focus on trade assistance, equitable pricing, and sustainable practices. Aiming to reduce the carbon footprint of dairy farming, the federation supports initiatives like the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act. Legislative victories include the renewal of the Dairy Margin Coverage program through 2031 and the extension of clean fuel tax credits.

In collaboration with the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC), NMPF signed a Dairy MOU with Taiwan, underscoring the commercial importance of this partnership. Current NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud emphasized the significance of this partnership. The NMPF is also addressing workforce shortages through programs like the Young Cooperators initiative, with Chairman Randy Mooney advocating for legislative changes in immigration policy. Brian Rexing, the new chairman, is poised to lead the federation in tackling pressing issues such as dairy economics and labor challenges.

Economist William Loux noted the sector's expansion with 235,000 additional milking cows. The NMPF warns that a critical labor shortage could jeopardize $11 billion in U.S. dairy infrastructure investments. Gregg Doud highlighted the potential impact of insufficient labor on the efficiency and growth of the dairy supply chain.

Furthermore, NMPF is launching an advocacy campaign to support vital legislation in the House, aiming to mobilize a coalition of dairy supporters, school nutrition advocates, and parents. Executive Vice President Shawna Morris pointed out Canada's exploitation of dairy trade commitments under the USMCA. The federation remains optimistic about legislative efforts to reintroduce whole milk into U.S. schools, which could stabilize farm-gate prices and support farm income.

In its efforts to compete globally, NMPF plans to invest in new processing plant infrastructure by 2026, aiming to rival the EU and New Zealand in global dairy exports. NMPF has welcomed USDA's decision to support dairy farmers, with Gregg Doud stating that these purchases would provide crucial relief to overcome economic challenges.

The NMPF's NEXT program was instrumental in reaching a new level of international sales, playing a vital role in connecting American producers with overseas buyers and streamlining the process of exporting dairy goods. The federation continues to focus on expanding its reach, aiming to further increase the volume of exports in the coming months.

The NMPF is working with authorities to protect livestock and manage the situation effectively. It has committed to collaborating closely with federal, state, and local authorities to safeguard national livestock herds. The federation has been actively developing diagnostic tools and management guides to help dairy farmers detect early signs of screwworm infestation. This initiative aims to educate farm managers quickly, enabling them to protect their animals and minimize any negative impacts on production.

Dr. Jamie Jonker, the chief science officer at NMPF, emphasized the industry's commitment to antibiotic stewardship, stating that the Drug Residue Prevention Manual continues to be a trusted resource for dairy farmers.

The NMPF has awarded scholarships to five graduate students working on key dairy industry challenges. These scholarships are part of the 2026 National Dairy Leadership Scholarship Program, designed to support master's and doctoral candidates whose research aligns with the commercial and technical priorities of domestic milk marketing cooperatives and primary dairy producers.

The NMPF supports regulatory clarification allowing year-round dairy operations to use the H-2A visa program. The federation has expressed strong support for this administrative change, which offers a pathway for dairy producers to legally hire foreign agricultural workers. NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud praised the efforts of executive leaders for their roles in facilitating this change.

Modified: 2026/06/25