WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. dairy output strengthened early this year as herd growth and improved productivity pushed supplies higher across major producing regions.
USDA reported January milk production in the 24 major states totaled 19.1 billion pounds — up 3.4 percent from last year. Production per cow averaged 2,082 pounds, 24 pounds higher year-over-year, while cow numbers climbed to 9.15 million head, up 200,000 head from a year ago.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Expanding dairy herds continue to pressure the milk price outlook.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
California remained the largest producer at 3.51 billion pounds, rising 4.7 percent. Wisconsin followed at 2.75 billion pounds, up 2.1 percent. Texas jumped 7.6 percent to 1.60 billion pounds, while Idaho increased 3.2 percent to 1.54 billion pounds. New York grew 3.4 percent and Michigan rose 3.6 percent. Kansas showed one of the sharpest gains — up 26 percent — while South Dakota rose nearly 11 percent as expansion continues in the Upper Plains dairy corridor.
Some regions declined. New Mexico dropped 3.8 percent, Pennsylvania fell 3.0 percent, and Washington slipped 6.1 percent, reflecting regional cost pressures and herd adjustments.
Higher output keeps milk supplies ample, reinforcing expectations for softer dairy prices even as feed costs remain favorable.
A high-stakes legal case in a South Dakota federal court concerning misleading country-of-origin labeling (MCOOL), such as “Product of the USA,” on food products, will significantly impact U.S. agricultural policy for years to come.
January 14, 2026 09:00 AM
·
Secretary Rollins also met with specialty crop producers at a local strawberry farm to discuss workforce needs and the Trump Administration’s recent wins related to significantly cutting the cost of H-2A labor for California farmers.
January 13, 2026 03:25 PM
·
China’s beef policy risk stems from domestic volatility, making export demand inherently unstable. Jake Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance offers his perspective on cattle markets, risk management, and producer sentiment.
January 13, 2026 02:13 PM
·
Food prices increased in December, but not as much as expected, according to the latest Consumer Price Index from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
January 13, 2026 12:46 PM
·
Structural efficiency supports cattle prices and resilience — breaking it risks higher costs and greater volatility.
January 13, 2026 08:00 AM
·
Strong pork demand and improving beef exports outside China support protein markets despite ongoing trade barriers.
January 13, 2026 06:00 AM
·
