Dairy Industry Experts Met This Week to Focus on Industry Challenges
By Laura Ginsburg, Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food, and Markets
The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food, and Markets hosted the Northern Tier Dairy Summit April 1-2, 2019 at Jay Peak Resort. The Dairy Summit, which focused on actionable next steps to help a dairy industry impacted by a fifth year of record low prices, a volatile export market, and oversupply of milk, attracted more than 240 attendees, 115 of them dairy farmers. Attendees came from Vermont, New York, New Hampshire, Connecticut, representing farms, technical service providers, government, lenders, nonprofits, and a diverse array of other dairy stakeholders.
The mood of the participants reflected the current mood of the industry: skeptical yet optimistic, collaborative and focused. Many of the dairy farmers in attendance shared personal experiences relating to their business, and the impacts on their families and communities. Governor Phil Scott recognized the importance of this conversation to the entire state.
“Our dairy farmers are the backbone of our Vermont working lands economy,” Governor Scott said. “If there’s a practical solution to our regional milk supply issues, I know this group will identify it, and work towards broadening the conversation.”
Secretary Tebbetts commented, “Our farmers are engaged and brought tremendous energy to the summit. Thank you for your ideas and suggestions. Your involvement was critical as we work on long term solutions.”
Outcomes of the Dairy Summit, based on participant action and discussion, will be developed over the coming weeks. For more pictures and to stay up to date with next steps and action opportunities, visit https://agriculture.vermont.gov/2019northerntierdairysummit
For questions, please contact Laura Ginsburg, Agricultural Development Section Chief by phone 802-522-2252 or by email laura.ginsburg@vermont.gov