Governor Mills Launches Dairy Month Celebrations at Brigeen Farms in Maine
Governor Janet Mills officially launched Dairy Month in Maine with a celebratory toast at Brigeen Farms in Turner. The gathering highlighted the significance of the dairy industry within Maine's agricultural sector and its contribution to rural communities. Governor Mills, alongside Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Deputy Commissioner Nancy McBrady, encouraged residents to support local dairy products throughout the year.
Brigeen Farms, run by Betsy Bullard and representing the 10th generation of the family since its establishment in 1777, hosted the event. Sarah Littlefield, Executive Director of the Maine Dairy Promotion Board, and representatives from the dairy community also attended. Governor Mills emphasized the quality of Maine's dairy products and urged consumers to purchase locally made cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and butter.
During the event, Deputy Commissioner McBrady announced the Maine Cheese Guild's Maine Open Creamery Day, scheduled for June 14, 2026. Traditionally held in September, the event has been moved to June to coincide with Dairy Month and provide more opportunities for the public to visit local creameries. Participants can enjoy tours, tastings, and meet the producers behind Maine's dairy products.
Maine hosts over 130 dairy farms, which manage herds of cows, goats, and sheep, while maintaining about 700,000 acres of farmland. These farms support the production of award-winning dairy products and contribute nearly $3 billion annually to the state's economy, while also providing employment to over 13,000 individuals.
Dairy farms in Maine not only supply nutritious food but also preserve the state's agricultural landscape, offering scenic open spaces. June has been recognized nationally as Dairy Month since 1939, celebrating the vital role of dairy farmers in communities across the United States.
Governor Mills' proclamation of June 2026 as Dairy Month in Maine underscores the ongoing support and appreciation for the state's dairy industry, encouraging residents to continue their patronage of local dairy products.
