Producers Celebrate June as Dairy Month in Kentucky

Like other agriculture producers in the commonwealth, Kentucky dairy farmers faced the challenges of COVID-19, disastrous weather events, chain supply issues, and inflation. To honor the resiliency and the everyday hard work of the Kentucky dairy farmer, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Ryan Quarles joined Kentucky dairy producers in proclaiming June as Dairy Month in Kentucky.

"The COVID crisis showed all of us the resilience and flexibility of our farming communities," Quarles said. "June gives us the perfect opportunity to celebrate our dairy producers as we shine a light on them during Dairy Month and honor the service and the hard work of the Kentucky dairy farmer."

Kentucky's 46,000 dairy cows produce milk -- the Official Beverage of Kentucky -- along with ice cream, artisan cheeses, and other tasty dairy products. Dairy farmers help provide Kentucky families with the calcium, protein, vitamins, and minerals they need to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.

On average, each dairy cow produces 6.2 gallons of milk a day, or 104 million gallons of milk each year. Milk ranks eighth as a Kentucky agriculture product with Kentucky dairy producers receiving more than $173,893,000 in cash receipts from sales of dairy products. Barren County has the most dairy cows, followed by Adair, Logan, Christian, and Todd counties.

"Kentucky dairy farmers are working every day to produce the delicious, very nutritious milk that everyone needs, especially our children," said H.H. Barlow, executive director of the Kentucky Dairy Development Council. "Dairy farming is a tough business that takes passion and daily commitment to get the job done. As we salute our 380 Kentucky dairy farmers who are working with 46,000 cows, we also want to truly thank our consumers who buy and enjoy our Kentucky milk, butter, cheese, ice cream, yogurt, and all other items made from milk."

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture helps Kentucky dairy farmers and processors find new markets for their products and conducts dairy cattle shows across the state. For more about the department's services to the dairy industry, go to www.kyagr.com.