By Blake Jackson
Organic dairy farms in the Eastern US are struggling, with collapsing numbers and shrinking margins. In Vermont, the number of organic dairies has nearly halved since 2016. Major processors like Horizon Organic pulling out haven't helped, leaving farms scrambling for new buyers or forced back to conventional practices.
The culprit? A combination of factors:Tight Margins: Organic milk production costs often outpace selling prices, squeezing profits.
- Western Dominance: Large, high-production farms in the West, with efficient packing and distribution, can undercut Eastern dairies.
- Data Gap: Lack of data on organic milk prices and production makes it hard to benchmark and advocate for fair pricing.
Despite these challenges, hope remains. The "O Dairy Act of 2023" proposes initiatives to boost the sector, including:
- Pilot programs: The Miller Farm pilot demonstrates how to support struggling farms and build local processing capacity.
- Improved data collection: More data on organic milk prices and production can inform better policies and pricing strategies.
- Organic dairy safety net: Similar to existing programs for conventional dairy, this would provide financial assistance during times of hardship.
Organic dairy farmers and their supporters are working hard to overcome these challenges. Improved data, innovative programs, and supportive legislation are key to ensuring a vibrant and sustainable future for organic dairy in the East.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: New York, Livestock, Dairy Cattle