WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — U.S. milk production moved sharply higher in November as expanding dairy cow numbers and stronger productivity pushed output well above last year, according to the USDA’s latest Milk Production report. Nationwide output totaled 18.8 billion pounds, up 4.5 percent from November 2024, while the 24 major dairy states produced 18.1 billion pounds, a 4.7 percent increase.
Both herd growth and improved milk yields drove the increase. The national dairy herd totaled 9.57 million head, up 211,000 cows from a year earlier, while production per cow averaged 1,963 pounds, 41 pounds higher than last November. In the 24-state total, milk per cow rose even faster to 1,979 pounds.
California remained the nation’s largest milk-producing state, generating 3.31 billion pounds in November, up more than 10 percent year over year. Wisconsin ranked second at 2.64 billion pounds, followed by Texas at 1.49 billion pounds.
Texas posted one of the strongest gains, supported by herd expansion and improved productivity, while Wisconsin’s growth remained steady but more modest.
The continued rise in milk supplies will put pressure on dairy prices heading into 2026 if demand does not keep pace.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Rising production underscores the importance of marketing discipline and margin protection as milk supplies expand.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller warns horse owners after EHV-1 cases linked to the Waco WPRA Finals. Horses linked to recent Waco events should be isolated and closely monitored, as early action is critical to stopping the spread of EHV-1.
November 24, 2025 02:47 PM
·
Farmers with unpaid Hansen-Mueller grain should verify delivery records immediately and file indemnity claims quickly, as coverage rules differ sharply by state.
November 24, 2025 02:32 PM
·
Jael Cruikshank, the newly elected Western Region Vice President, shares her story on this week’s FFA Today.
November 24, 2025 12:52 PM
·
According to November’s Cattle on Feed Report, Nebraska now leads the nation in cattle feeding as tighter supplies continue to reshape regional market power and long-term price dynamics.
November 24, 2025 11:47 AM
·
Lower U.S. and Mexican production means tighter sugar supplies and greater reliance on imports headed into 2026.
November 22, 2025 11:00 AM
·
Tyson’s closure reflects deep supply shortages in the U.S. cattle industry, tightening packing capacity, weakening competition, and signaling more volatility ahead for cow-calf producers and feedyards.
November 21, 2025 07:02 PM
·
Gary Hall, co-founder of Hollywood Impact Studios Rehabilitation, joined the program to discuss using agriculture to provide opportunities and mentorship for at-risk youth in Southern California.
November 21, 2025 02:25 PM
·
The agriculture workforce remains strong and diverse, offering meaningful pathways for students pursuing careers that support the food and farm economy.
November 21, 2025 02:13 PM
·
Sen. Roger Marshall discusses the Senate’s unanimous passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and what expanded milk options could mean for students and dairy farmers. Industry groups say it is a win for student nutrition and dairy producers.
November 21, 2025 01:19 PM
·
