Syracuse Sun

The dairy industry has long been a significant force in American nutrition and has played a crucial role in establishing New York as a major agricultural center. This June, National Dairy Month offers an opportunity to reflect on the industry's contributions over the past 85 years.

Originally known as "National Milk Month" when it was created in 1937 to promote milk consumption amid surplus production, the celebration now honors the impact of family farmers on various aspects of daily life, from school lunches to holiday desserts.

New York hosts several programs that underscore the generosity of its farming community. Nourish New York facilitates the purchase and delivery of surplus farm and dairy products to those facing food insecurity. Similarly, the New York State Farm-to-School Program connects farmers with students who need affordable agricultural products.

However, New York's dairy farmers are currently facing significant challenges. According to recent reports, about half of the state's dairy farms have closed over the past decade due to labor shortages and rising production costs, as noted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. While cattle numbers have remained steady, farmland consolidation threatens small and mid-sized farms essential for maintaining agricultural productivity.

The Assembly Minority Conference continues to advocate for family farms facing hurdles such as increased costs due to changes in overtime rules. Assembly Agriculture Committee Ranking Minority Member Chris Tague (R,C-Schoharie), a former dairy farmer, along with other conference members, has proposed several legislative measures aimed at alleviating these challenges.

Reflecting on the importance of New York's farming community, there is hope that measures can be taken to support and sustain these vital contributors to both state and national agriculture.