By Blake Jackson
Wisconsin dairy farmers saw a positive trend in milk production for April 2024. According to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service, the state produced 2.72 billion pounds of milk last month, a 2% increase from April 2023. This encouraging news comes alongside a rise in both the number of milk cows and milk production per cow.
Wisconsin boasted an average of 1.27 million head of milk cows in April, 2,000 more than the previous month and 4,000 more compared to April 2023. Additionally, average milk production per cow reached 2,140 pounds, reflecting a 45-pound increase from last year.
While Wisconsin's dairy industry thrives, it's important to note a broader national trend. Milk production in the 24 major dairy states, including Wisconsin, dipped slightly by 0.2% in April 2024 compared to the same month last year.
This decrease coincides with a national decline in the number of dairy cows, with 74,000 fewer cows on farms across the US compared to April 2023.
Despite the national dip, Wisconsin's dairy sector demonstrates growth and continues to be a significant contributor to the overall US milk production.
Photo Credit: istock-cagkansayin
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Dairy Cattle