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
Better yield measurement means fairer grids, more precise breeding targets, and more dollars for truly efficient cattle.
October 13, 2025 10:45 AM
·
Escalating U.S.–China tensions threaten soybean demand as farm finances are stretched further.
October 13, 2025 10:40 AM
·
Expect a steady corn grind and selective basis strength where exports and local blending stay active.
October 09, 2025 05:10 PM
·
October 29 – November 1, 2025
October 09, 2025 03:13 PM
CoBank Lead Grains Economist Tanner Ehmke joins us to share insight and concerns over current grain storage capacity as export demand lags.
October 09, 2025 01:36 PM
·
Large animal veterinarian Dr. Rosalyn Biggs with Oklahoma State University warns producers may not be prepared for the real threat of New World Screwworm.
October 09, 2025 01:10 PM
·
We spotlight a student from Illinois who is helping to launch a middle school chapter and teaching younger students about the impact of agriculture in their communities.
October 09, 2025 12:48 PM
·
As the government shutdown pushes the farm economy closer to the brink, Sens. Grassley and Ernst of Iowa are raising their voices for agriculture.
October 09, 2025 11:50 AM
·
October 09, 2025 11:36 AM
·
