KDA celebrates Dairy Month

Kansas is one of the fastest-growing dairy regions in the United States. The Kansas Department of Agriculture will celebrate our hard-working dairies throughout June, which is Kansas dairy month. The Kansas dairy industry is a valued part of Kansas agriculture. The industry grew and 2020, increasing milk production by more than 5% to a total of 3.8 billion pounds of milk produced annually by 173,000 dairy cows at a value of over $668 million. But behind these numbers, more than 220 family-run dairy farms are owned by Kansas dairy farmers who are valued and influential members of their communities. The growth of the dairy industry means economic gains for local communities and the state of Kansas and more wholesome, safe nutritious dairy products for families in Kansas and across the region. Kansas dairies are continuing to look for ways to be more efficient and progressive, as dairy farmers are making investments, including innovative technologies like robotic rotary milking systems to enhance the industry in the state. Adding value to the milk produced in Kansas has been a key component to advancing the state's dairy industry. From the state-of-the-art milk powder plant that opened in 2017. To this spring's announcement of the new Hilmar Cheese plant. Kansas dairies and processors have worked hard to become efficient, and they take pride in the work they do. Their farmers are committed to the health comfort and well being of their cows, and to providing high quality dairy products which are an important part of a nutritious diet. So join us and enjoy Kansas milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream as we celebrate the important contributions of the Kansas dairy industry during Kansas dairy month, this June.