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Dr. Boozman's Check-up

June Dairy Month

Jun 17 2014

June Dairy Month isn’t just a great excuse to enjoy some ice cream, it is also a wonderful time to reflect on the importance the dairy industry has on our great state.

Traditionally, milk has been a prominent source of dietary needs for all Arkansans, yet has also been crucial to the development of rural communities in Arkansas.  As the decades have passed, the capability and progression of modern milk-processing practices have secured the importance of dairy industry in Arkansas.  Today, the dairy industry is the second largest segment of American agriculture and an integral part of Arkansas’ farm sector.  Arkansas farm families who derive their income from the sale of milk contribute over $100 million to the state’s economy; and hundreds of other Arkansas are employed to process a vast array of dairy foods.

Just like many Arkansans, I feel it is clear that we should celebrate dairy not just in June, but all year long.  So while you’re enjoying Arkansas’ official state drink, milk, or a refreshing ice cream cone this summer be sure to remember the contributions the dairy industry has made to Arkansas and the United States. 

Arkansas Dairy Facts:

  • Arkansas dairy farms produced approximately 12 million gallons of milk last year
  • Arkansas farms generate approximately $24 million in milk sales annually
  • In Arkansas, the average dairy cow produces about 3.7 gallons of milk per day. That’s more than 1,356 gallons of milk over the course of a typical year
  • It takes about 48 hours for milk to travel from the farm to the dairy case