Kentucky Proclaims June as Dairy Month, Honoring Resilient Farmers

Kentucky, USA - The Commissioner of Agriculture, Dr. Ryan Quarles, was joined by dairy farmers, producers, and industry representatives as they signed a proclamation designating June as Dairy Month in Kentucky. The proclamation aims to recognize and celebrate the hard work and resilience of the state's dairy industry.

Highlighting the dairy farmers' ability to adapt to changing circumstances, Commissioner Quarles emphasized their continuous provision of wholesome and nutritious dairy products. June was deemed the perfect time to honor Kentucky's dairy farmers and their unwavering dedication to their craft.

The dairy cattle industry in Kentucky experienced a positive growth trend in 2023, with an increase of 1,000 dairy cows—a noteworthy milestone as it marked the first year-over-year increase since 1986. These 45,000 dairy cows play a vital role in producing milk—the Official Beverage of Kentucky—along with ice cream, artisan cheeses, and other delectable dairy products that contribute to the well-being of Kentucky families.

Kentucky's dairy cows collectively produce over 107 million gallons of milk annually, ranking milk as the state's eighth most valuable agriculture product. In terms of economic impact, each dairy cow generates over $13,700 per year, making the dairy industry a significant contributor to the state's economy.

The Kentucky Dairy Development Council (KDDC) expressed their appreciation for the dairy farms' commitment to delivering wholesome milk to consumers. They acknowledged the vital role of consumers in supporting the dairy industry and encouraged everyone to celebrate Dairy Month by enjoying extra bowls of ice cream to beat the summer heat.

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture plays a crucial role in assisting dairy farmers and processors by helping them find new markets for their products and organizing dairy cattle shows throughout the state. For further information on the department's services to the dairy industry, visit https://www.kyagr.com/.

Photo Credit: GettyImages-ahavelaar