Ag United News

Celebrate National Dairy Month in June with South Dakota’s Dairy Producers

May 28, 2009 -- SIOUX FALLS, SD – Enjoying a cool dairy treat is a highlight of summer for many South Dakotans.  Ice cream, yogurt or a glass of milk are all refreshing ways to beat the heat, and all are made possible by the efforts of the 400 plus dairy farmers in South Dakota.  June is designated as National Dairy Month to recognize the efforts of these producers and celebrate the positive impact of the dairy industry on the state’s economy and of dairy products on healthy diets.

 

“South Dakota dairy farmers work hard every day and produce more than just milk,” said Steve Dick, executive director of Ag United.  “Dairy farms create jobs for people who grow and ship feed for cows, transport fluid milk, work at processing plants and transport and market final product.  In addition, dairy farmers support local businesses and service providers like veterinarians, accountants, bankers, and others.”

 

Dairy production is a growing industry in South Dakota.  In the first quarter of 2009, milk production for South Dakota totaled 460 million pounds, 8 percent above the 426 million pounds produced in the first quarter of 2008, according to the South Dakota office of USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

 

During the first quarter of 2009, the average number of milk cows, at 94,000, is up 7,000 head from the first quarter of 2008. 

 

During 2008, the number of milk cows averaged 90,000, up from the 2007 average of 85,000 head.  Milk produced per cow averaged 19,956 pounds, up from 19,306 pounds in 2007.  Total milk produced in 2008, at 1.796 million pounds, was up 9 percent from the 1,641 million pounds of 2007.

 

“The number of milk cows in the state is increasing and so is the average milk production from each cow,” said Dick.  “South Dakota’s dairy producers are focused on providing the best possible care for their cows to ensure good health and productivity.”

 

For more information about dairy production in South Dakota and the role of dairy products in a healthy diet, visit the following Web sites:

·         Midwest Dairy Association:  http://www.midwestdairy.com

·         National Dairy Council:  http://www.nationaldairycouncil.org

·         National Milk Producers Federation:  http://www.nmpf.org

 

Ag United was developed through a collaboration of farm organizations that support livestock production and development and includes the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association, the South Dakota Corn Growers Association, South Dakota Farm Bureau, South Dakota Pork Producers Council and the South Dakota Soybean Association. The President of the organization is Volga farmer, Scott VanderWal; the Secretary is Astoria farmer, Dave Iverson.