Milk production is getting a boost in Nebraska, with the state’s first new dairy processing facility in more than six years.
Crews broke ground this week on DARI Processing, a family-owned operation in Seward, Nebraska. The new plant will cost around $180 million. Governor Jim Pillen was on hand for the ceremony, saying the new plant will keep more commodities in the state.
DARI owners explained why the plant is needed.
“Processing across the U.S. is aging. Plants are getting older, and Todd and I look at this as a way to invest back into dairy infrastructure and bring modern technology into bottling milk. Aseptic technology is not new. It’s been around in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand for about two decades and has grown in popularity there. We just haven’t seen a lot of it here in the U.S., but it’s gaining, and we believe it’s the future of milk,” said TJ Tuls.
DARI expects to process nearly two million pounds of milk each day, while creating 70 full-time jobs.
AFBF Economist Danny Munch shares a closer look at the dairy market and the forces impacting producers today.
January 29, 2026 02:52 PM
·
Early indications suggest the U.S. cattle industry may be nearing the end of its liquidation phase. Oklahoma State University livestock economist Dr. Derrell Peel says the industry could be at or near the cyclical low.
January 29, 2026 12:44 PM
·
Beef x Dairy cattle with strong genetics and documentation are earning prices comparable to native feeders.
January 29, 2026 08:00 AM
·
FarmHER Chris Nellis and her daughters navigate loss while carrying on a 300-year farm legacy, milking cows in upstate New York.
January 28, 2026 03:27 PM
·
Mixed product pricing and rising milk supplies suggest margin management will remain critical as 2026 unfolds.
January 28, 2026 06:00 AM
·
Meat stocks rose seasonally but remain below last year overall, while tighter butter inventories could support dairy prices, and belly stocks warrant close watch for pork markets.
January 26, 2026 03:00 PM
·
