Beth Ford: Leadership in the Dairy Industry

Beth Ford serves as the CEO of Land O' Lakes, a prominent cooperative in the dairy industry. Under her leadership, the organization is addressing significant financial and demographic challenges impacting the agricultural sector.

Ford has been vocal about the financial challenges faced by farmers, particularly highlighting a significant 25% drop in farm income from 2022 to 2024. The projection for 2025 indicates a median farm income of -$328, which she emphasizes as a critical issue alongside the aging farmer population.

Recently, Ford resigned from the board of BlackRock to focus more intently on pressing issues within the agricultural sector. She continues to shed light on the economic difficulties and demographic challenges that are reshaping the landscape of farming today.

Additionally, Ford has identified commercial advantages that set US dairy businesses apart from much of agriculture. She notes the continued consumer interest in protein and income from beef-on-dairy calves as supports for farm profit-and-loss statements.