WASHINGTON – Yesterday, the U.S. Senate unanimously adopted a Senate Resolution (S.Res.268) introduced by U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo (both R-Idaho) and 14 additional Senate colleagues designating June 2021 as National Dairy Month. The Resolution recognizes the role dairy plays in a healthy diet and the exceptional work of dairy producers as stewards of the land and livestock.
“As one of the top milk- and cheese-producing states in the country, Idaho is proud of its dairy farmers,” said Senator Risch. “Our dairymen and women have dedicated their lives to feeding American families. During National Dairy Month, they deserve our thanks and respect.”
“Idaho is one of the leading dairy producing states in America, contributing to healthier communities and a stronger economy,” said Senator Crapo. “Dairy farming and production plays a vital role in Idaho’s agriculture industry, supporting 48,000 jobs in the state and nearly 3 million nationwide. This resolution urges Americans to gain a better understanding of dairy’s health benefits and how the industry supports economically and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices that protect our environment while ensuring these nutritional staples are accessible for communities across the country.”
Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kansas) introduced the Resolution along with Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire), Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Tammy Baldwin (R-Wisconsin), Angus King (I-Maine), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Ben Ray Lujan (D-New Mexico), Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota).
Background:
The U.S. dairy industry serves as a key driver in the national food system and supports the people of the United States both nutritionally and economically. According to the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, dairy products have a nutritional composition that puts them ahead of the curve in maintaining good health and reduced risk of chronic diseases throughout all stages of life. This resolution also highlights the economic impact of dairy producers in the United States, and encourages consumers to visit with dairy producers to gain a better understanding of the production process. It is estimated that the U.S. dairy industry supported 3.3 million jobs and $41.6 billion in direct wages to support workers and their families. Idaho’s annual milk yield of over 13 billion pounds is valued at over $2.2, making dairy the state’s top agriculture industry. Idaho’s nearly 500 dairies are all family owned.
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