A Tribute to U.S. Dairy Farm Families and the Nutritional Power of Dairy
GRAND PRAIRIE, TEXAS (May 16, 2024) — This June Dairy MAX celebrates more than 85 years of
National Dairy Month, a month honoring our dairy farmers, their cows and the invaluable contributions
they make to our communities. Dating back to 1937 June was originally named National Milk Month to
promote and distribute milk during the warm summer months. This month-long recognition has since grown
into a celebration of the dairy community’s substantial impact on sustainable nutrition and the economy.
“National Dairy Month is a time for reflection and celebration. It’s about appreciating the hard work and
dedication that goes into dairy farming,” says Joel Van Dam, New Mexico dairy farmer. “To me, it
symbolizes our commitment to providing nutritious dairy while respecting and caring for the environment.
It’s a tribute to both the farmers and the communities we serve.”
National Dairy Month is an opportunity to thank dairy farmers for their dedication to delivering responsibly
produced, nutritious dairy foods that nourish our schools, families and communities. With 94 percent of
dairy farms being family-owned and operated, the dairy community embodies a legacy of family tradition,
environmental stewardship and agricultural excellence. Dairy farmers not only emphasize the health and
comfort of their cows through regular veterinary care, healthy living conditions and a nutritious diet, but
they also work diligently to secure their farms and the milk supply in order to maintain the highest quality
of dairy production for our communities. Farmers understand the importance of sustainability and
preserving the land to pass on to future generations. Sustainability practices involve responsibly caring for
the farm through water conservation, reducing energy consumption and developing renewable energy
sources. This commitment ensures the long-term viability of their farms, protecting a legacy of
environmental stewardship for generations to come.
“Witnessing the sacrifices our farmers make to nourish their communities has been truly inspiring. Dairy
farmers are committed to being environmentally responsible and understand the importance of protecting
our natural resources,” said Todd Green, vice president of industry image and relations at Dairy MAX. “As
we enter the 87th year of National Dairy Month, it’s crucial to recognize the perseverance and essential role
of every farmer.”
The numerous benefits found in milk, yogurt and cheese are also highlighted during National Dairy Month.
Dairy is not only a source of calcium and potassium, but also provides 13 essential vitamins and minerals.
These nutrients contribute to overall health benefits including improved bone health, immune function,
muscle growth and recovery, and lower the risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and
depression.
Dairy MAX, representing over 900 dairy farm families across eight states, recognizes the unwavering
commitment dairy farmers provide to their animals, land and communities. Dairy farmers’ efforts in
conservation and sustainable practices along with leading future generations of farmers highlight the impact
of their work and the significance of this month-long celebration. This June, as we celebrate National Dairy
Month, Dairy MAX invites the public to join in honoring dairy farmers and the vital role dairy plays in our
lives. For more information and resources on National Dairy Month, visit DairyDiscoveryZone.com.
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About Dairy MAX
Founded more than 40 years ago, Dairy MAX is one of the leading regional dairy councils in America – representing more than 900 dairy farmers and serving communities in eight states: Colorado, southwest Kansas, Louisiana, Montana, New Mexico, western Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming. A nonprofit organization, Dairy MAX is part of a nationwide effort to promote American agriculture, support dairy farming and drive impact for every dairy farmer. The organization operates five audience outreach programs: business development, consumer marketing, health and wellness, industry image and relations and school marketing. For more information about Dairy MAX and its team of experts, visit DairyMAX.org. Dairy resources and delicious recipes are available at DairyDiscoveryZone.com.
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