The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its Agricultural Prices report July 31, which includes feed costs used to calculate June Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program margins and indemnity payments. June’s margin was $11.66 per hundredweight (cwt).

Margin outlook has significantly improved from a few months ago as sustained high cheese and butter prices drive milk prices higher and lower feed costs all contribute to the positive outlook.

Here is the latest news affecting a dairy producer's bottom line as we start the fourth week of July.

U.S. beef export values reached $902.4 million in May, 3% higher than last year and the highest point since June 2023, according to USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation.

As we enter July, here are some financial factors to consider, as well as opportunities for awards, scholarships and the opening of World Dairy Expo cattle show entries.

As we flip to a new month, here's a recap of the news announced last week regarding financial assistance for dairy producers facing HPAI, as well as testing and research updates. The news also highlights new versions of the FARM Program just released, grant funding for dairy initiatives, and corn and soybean planing reports.

The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its Agricultural Prices report June 28, which includes feed costs used to calculate May Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program margins and indemnity payments. May’s income over feed cost was $10.52 per hundredweight (cwt), the largest margin since November 2022.

Margins appear encouraging with the recent swell in Class III prices and improved feed costs. Cheese exports to Mexico have also been critical for U.S. dairy producers as shipments to China and Southeast Asia have slowed. Yet, with extreme weather conditions and the continued spread of avian influenza, having a strategy to manage risk is essential.