Dairy producers have approved changes to the Federal Milk Marketing Order, but not all groups are on board.
USDA’s Ag Marketing Service says the yes vote includes changes to “make allowances.”
“What we had to do is look at what was proposed. Obviously, nobody got exactly what they asked for. So, we looked at both sides and evaluated and weighed out what we thought the sweet spot was going to be, if you will, in making those changes because we recognize the significant impact that it has when we make any changes within the federal order system. So, after extensive analysis and extensive input from the industry, we determined that where we came out is about as good as we can get,” said Dana Coale.
The Farm Bureau applauds USDA’s move on the “Higher Of” Class 1 Milk Formula, but group President Zippy Duvall says, “However, the positive changes that will come as a result of these reforms will not be uniform for dairy farmers across the country and will be greatly offset by large, unjustified increases in make allowances.”
He adds the system relies on fairness and wants USDA to require an audited survey of processing costs.
Livestock strength is carrying the farm economy, while crop margins remain tight and increasingly dependent on risk management and financial discipline.
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Strong balance sheets still matter, but liquidity, planning, and lender relationships are critical as ag credit tightens, according to analysis from AgAmerica Lending.
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Protein-driven dairy growth is boosting beef supply potential, creating an opening to support rural jobs and ground beef availability.
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U.S. agriculture entered the week with mixed signals as weather, logistics, and markets shaped early-year decisions. Here is a regional breakdown of domestic crop and livestock production for the week of Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.
January 19, 2026 11:40 AM
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The Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features a competitive steer showcase highlighting top-quality cattle and the accomplishments of driven youth exhibitors.
January 16, 2026 01:48 PM
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Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.
January 16, 2026 01:28 PM
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