US Dairy Industry Sees Major Production Boost and Consolidation
Source: The DairyNews
The latest Census of Agriculture data released by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service reveals significant trends in the US dairy sector, highlighting increased milk production and further industry consolidation over the past decade.
In 2023, the US produced 25.3 billion pounds more milk than in 2013, maintaining stable cow numbers but experiencing shifts in farm sizes and locations. Among the top 24 milk-producing states, only 16 reported an increase in production over the last decade, while states like California, Florida, and Pennsylvania saw declines.
Conversely, Texas, Wisconsin, and Idaho demonstrated substantial growth. Texas, notably, added 195,000 cows and increased its milk production by 7 billion pounds, spurred by new processing facilities and a favorable business climate, particularly in the Panhandle region.
The structure of dairy farms has also evolved. While 80% of US dairy farms house fewer than 500 cows, the majority of the dairy cattle now reside on larger farms with over 1,000 animals, reflecting a shift towards larger-scale operations.
Conversely, Texas, Wisconsin, and Idaho demonstrated substantial growth. Texas, notably, added 195,000 cows and increased its milk production by 7 billion pounds, spurred by new processing facilities and a favorable business climate, particularly in the Panhandle region.
The structure of dairy farms has also evolved. While 80% of US dairy farms house fewer than 500 cows, the majority of the dairy cattle now reside on larger farms with over 1,000 animals, reflecting a shift towards larger-scale operations.
23.09.2024
Carbon emissions in global milk production - the elephant in the room
I have been thinking to make this post yes/ no. I decided for yes and like to ask everyone to not "shoot the messenger". The chart shows an analysis of IFCN Dairy Research Network from the 2024 supporter conference in Poland.
