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.
UNL Extension’s Troy Walz discusses the Nebraska Ranch Practicum, where sessions are held, how producers can get involved, and what ranchers can gain from participating in the program.
February 24, 2026 01:16 PM
·
The Ranger Road Fire in the Oklahoma Panhandle is now 65% contained after burning nearly 300,000 acres over the past week. Kevin Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance Agency discusses wildfire recovery, livestock insurance considerations, and the importance of preparedness for producers across the Southern Plains.
February 24, 2026 12:28 PM
·
Singer-songwriter and RanchHER Clare Dunn reflects on the importance of National FFA Week, her time in FFA, and her commitment to advocating for agriculture and rural issues.
February 23, 2026 02:15 PM
·
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
February 23, 2026 01:40 PM
·
Ranger Road Fire has burned 283,000 acres across Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle and is nearing containment, as ranchers begin assessing cattle and infrastructure losses as they look toward recovery.
February 23, 2026 11:08 AM
·
The debate now matters as much as the policy — market rules and regulatory clarity depend on whether Congress can finish the bill this year.
February 22, 2026 03:00 PM
·
