August 2019 U.S. milk production continued the year-long trend of minimal growth, according to the USDA’s monthly Milk Production report, released Sept. 18.

Digest Highlights

• USDA providing payments for disaster-related milk losses
• California QIP Phase 2 meetings postponed; opposition continues petition drive
• Global Dairy Trade index moves higher
• Dairy margins start September significantly stronger
• Congress moving to include MFP funds in continuing resolution
• First District Association breaks ground on major expansion
• MMPA delegates approve leadership structural changes
• Wisconsin lawmakers seek plant-based product labeling restrictions
• Cornell Dairy Advancement Program expanding
• Girard promoted at CDI
• Wisconsin groups call for halt to livestock farm siting rule changes

Despite the ongoing challenges of declining fluid milk consumption, the picture of the health of the dairy industry is much brighter than the doom and gloom conjured from selective use of data, according to the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF). A new weekly series from NMPF – called "Dairy Defined” – provides a data-based look at today’s dairy farms and industry.

Currently, one of the biggest opportunities for increased performance on our dairy farms centers around our fresh cow programs. Fresh cows have a great opportunity for production potential, but if we do not set them up for success properly, they will not be able to achieve an optimal level of production.

I’ve been struck with an odd realization this summer: I’m closer to having kids in 4-H and youth programs than I am to having been a participant myself.

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