News

April proved another robust month of growth for U.S. dairy exports as an improved port situation helped clear a backlog of shipments from the fourth quarter of 2020 and early 2021, according to a monthly update from the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC). Here’s a monthly recap of exports and trade news covering dairy products, dairy cattle, hay and more.

Digest Highlights

• January-April 2021 DMC payments top $446 million
• Cacique LLC breaks ground on processing facility in Amarillo, Texas
• USDA drought maps show little change
• USDA announces premium benefit for cover crops
• Things you might have missed

The mental health and well-being of veterinarians has become one of the most important topics to trend in the dairy community in recent months, as veterinarian suicides have been on the rise. Zoetis encourages dairy industry members to help raise awareness and funds to support dairy veterinarians who hold a unique bond and tireless dedication for protecting and caring for cattle. Participants have the opportunity to recognize and nominate dairy veterinarians in their life for a chance to receive a personalized jacket.

Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) Class III and Class IV milk prices improved again in May, but the spread between the two grew wider.

Digest Highlights

• House letter urges permanent school milk flexibility
• Gillibrand seeks possible investigation, CFAP payments for dairy
• Eight appointed to Fluid Milk Board
• Global Dairy Trade index trend continues
• USDA purchases dairy products
• Ag Economy Barometer diverges
• World Milk Day used to launch dairy ‘sustainability’ information campaigns