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Michigan reports highest percentage of dairy closings

USDA’s March milk production report confirmed more than 2,700 dairy farms closed nationwide in 2018 with Michigan seeing the highest percentage.

Michigan House Ag Committee Chair Julie Alexander of Jackson, a former teacher and farmer’s wife, tells Brownfield her family was one of the 230 in the state to sell their cows last year. “It was heart wrenching to see a third-generation family farm make that decision that was simply an economic decision to leave the industry.” The farm has since transitioned to commercially raising crops on their 1,500 acres. 

Alexander says while Michigan’s farm numbers have decreased, the number of milk cows has stayed steady and ag processing will be crucial to supporting the state’s industry.

USDA reports Michigan milk production during 2018 increased by one percent with 6,000 fewer cows.

Michigan Senate Ag Committee Chair Kevin Daley tells Brownfield his family made the decision to sell their dairy farm 15 years ago and farmers today are making even less. “We’re hearing stories from dairy farmers that are established dairies losing $10,000 a month.  They can’t survive that way.”   

Last year, Michigan lawmakers approved $1 million to help dairy farmers and while Daley says he’s not a fan of direct payments, the legislature is exploring how the funds will be distributed. “What we’re seeing out in my area is that the small farmers can’t even get a milk hauler to come in to haul their milk so that’s what’s forcing these 13 percent that are out, not only the price, but it’s the fact they can’t get the infrastructure they need.”

The Lapeer County farmer says he is advocating for improving rural infrastructure and ag processing as a way to support the dairy industry.

Both chairs spoke with Brownfield during Ag Day at the Capitol.