Looking at the statistics from 2017, it is evident the growth that occurred in the industry.
Milk production across the country is up 6 percent, and farms are growing in efficiency by increasing milk per cow by almost 7.5 percent.
The value of exported dairy products increased almost 70 percent compared to the year before.
However, while the numbers show a bright picture, one cannot ignore the cloud hanging over the industry. The trade war with the U.S. brings uncertainty to this stable market.
News reports tell of some processors and government officials questioning supply management or Class 7.
There is also a cloud of sadness as the industry mourns the loss of Bettina Schuurmans, who was killed in a traffic accident while travelling across the country by tractor with her husband, Henk, to promote the dairy industry.
The dairy producer couple left from their farm in Floradale, Ontario, on June 22 and was in Saskatchewan when the accident occurred on July 9.
Along the journey, they documented their many stops using the hashtag and handle @CdnMilkTour and frequently commented on the positive interactions they were getting to their fiberglass cow and calf, Maple and Minnie, they had in tow and the sign that read, “Honk to support quality milk.”
Nothing breaks apart clouds better than sunlight. Even though the trip ended in unexpected tragedy, we should not overlook the brightness the Schuurmanses brought to the industry.
Their passion, devotion and pride for Canada’s dairy industry was clearly evident. Their goal was to spread that message across the country to let everyone know the importance of supply management, family farms and quality milk.
If everyone reading this could take a moment to tell someone else about the great contributions of the Canadian dairy industry, we can continue what Henk and Bettina started and help that message spread across the country.
Feel free to use the numbers from the statistics or speak to your own passion for the industry; either way, be sure to share a positive message in hopes for a bright tomorrow. 
PHOTO: Henk and Bettina Schuurmans planned to spend their summer sharing their love of the dairy industry on a tractor tour across Canada. A terrible accident ended the trip too soon, but hopefully their efforts will inspire others to continue to spread the word about supply management, family farms and quality milk. Photo by Sharon Grose Photography.
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Karen Lee
- Editor
- Progressive Dairyman
- Email Karen Lee
