Monthly Columns

January, 2012
Dairy farmers, county regulators work together for the benefit of valley’s economy, environment

As the 2012 presidential election takes shape, jump-starting the economy has been the dominant subject of the political dialogue. A key part of this conversation has been the issue of regulatory reform on topics ranging from banking and the environment to labor and energy. While this important discussion continues in the national spotlight, a host of important regulatory decisions and efforts will be made at state, county and community levels.

December, 2011
Dairies prove their worth to Golden State with a banner year of sustainability accomplishments

California dairy families are justifiably proud of the contributions they make to their local communities, our state and our nation. And 2011 provided many examples of how these contributions have helped to build stronger communities, a better environment and a more prosperous economy.

November, 2011
Consumers can be thankful for advancements in sustainability by California dairy families

Millions of American families will gather around dinner tables this holiday season to reflect and give thanks. Likely on the list of things to be thankful for will be the turkey, stuffing and many other holiday foods that fill plates and ultimately bellies.

October, 2011
California dairy farmers continue to lead nation with animal care quality assurance efforts

California is well-known for many things across our nation and around the world.  Hollywood, Silicon Valley, Disneyland, surfing and movie star governors

September, 2011
Recently released ‘Profiles in Sustainability’ series shares dairy’s commitment to sustainability

A concerted, positive movement is sweeping the countryside.  Thanks to the advent of smartphones, flip cameras and social media, farmers are telling their stories directly to their consumers, neighbors and community leaders.  Look on YouTube and you’ll find videos such as “What we do on our family dairy farm” and “Caring for animals on a dairy farm.”    &nbs

August, 2011
Putting a face on sustainability – new videos to help dairy families share commitment, progress
What is sustainability? Producing and providing goods and services in a way that maximizes benefits to people and the environment. These days, it’s a much-discussed topic among a wide array of industries, from energy and transportation to construction and even fashion.
 
July, 2011
Investment by dairy families leads way toward improved Valley water quality

In coming weeks, California dairy families will step forward with a new, pioneering initiative to further protect and improve water quality across the great Central Valley.

June, 2011
Well monitoring program moves forward, as deadline for dairies to join draws near

Thanks to a two-year effort by the Dairy Cares coalition and a dedicated group of dairymen from around the Central Valley, a special program that will help protect the environment, while significantly cutting costs for dairy operators, is about to launch.

May, 2011
One year later: Dairy families make significant, commendable strides with Dairy FARM Program
Farmers know the statistic well – less than 2 percent of the U.S. population is directly involved in the day-to-day production of our nation’s food and fiber. Coupled with the fact most people are three to four generations removed from farm life, it comes as no surprise that consumers have questions about the hows and whys of farming, especially as they relate to farm animals. Many are simply seeking assurance that animals on today’s farms are treated ethically and responsibly by farmers.
 
April, 2011
Western States symposium demonstrates solid commitment to air quality progress
A decade ago, too much of the discussion about dairies and air quality was based on guesswork. Little was known about the air emissions of our nation’s livestock facilities, and even less about what could be done about them.