With preliminary September numbers in, the USDA estimated July-September U.S. milk production was up 1.2% from the same period a year ago.

The annual National Cooperative Bank survey showed dairy co-ops made up 16 of the Top 100 cooperatives for revenue in 2021. There were probably more.

Digest highlights

• ‘Dairy states’ alfalfa hay production lower
• FMMO issues topic of Farm Bureau forum
• AFBF releases dairy policy priorities for 2023 Farm Bill
• GDT product prices decline
• Lawsuit seeks EPA Clean Water Act action on regulating CAFOs
• August fluid sales post uptick
• CDFA awards methane reduction grants
• DairyAmerica named U.S. Dairy Exporter of the Year

Hay production recovered in the northern Plains, but Texas took a big hit.

Finding consensus on FMMO issues hasn’t been easy.

• 2023 DMC enrollment period closes Dec. 9
• Continue using current Form I-9
• USDA extends comment period for organic livestock handling rules
• Proposal blocks SEC GHG emission disclosure requirements for farms

Despite economic headwinds, U.S. dairy products remain popular in global markets, spurring a fifth straight month of year-over-year growth.