The U.S. could be facing a milk-cow shortage.
New data from CoBank show the number of cows able to produce milk has fallen to a 20-year low. Analysts predict that the trend will continue until a recovery period sometime in 2027, when more dairy facilities are expected to come online.
Record-high prices for beef calves, coupled with tight cattle supplies, have prompted many dairy producers to produce more calves for feedlots and fewer for milk barns.
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For dairy producers, that could help support fluid milk use in cafeterias, breakfast programs, and other child nutrition settings.
Sinagra Family Dairy is focused on expanding local milk production and supporting its rural community.
Dr. David Anderson says lean beef demand and lighter cow culling are still giving cull cow prices room to push higher.
Culver’s is holding its annual “Scoops of Thanks Day” event, offering a scoop of frozen custard in exchange for a $1 donation supporting agricultural education.
The USDA’s annual report leaves dairy producers with a mixed picture. Output and herd size expanded, but weaker prices kept income from rising with production.
