New York ranked as the third-largest producer of milk nationally last year for the first time since 2009, due to the state’s booming yogurt industry. According to data released by the USDA, in 2013 New York’s milk production rose 2.2 percent, while growing only 0.4 percent nationally.
Since 2009, milk production per cow in New York has increased by 10.2 percent. The state produced 695 million pounds of yogurt, nearly triple the amount in 2009, and was the country’s No. 1 producer of yogurt.The dairy industry accounts for more than half of the state’s agricultural profits.
“Milk production is fueling thousands of jobs across upstate New York, revitalizing communities and providing a variety of nutritious products for millions of consumers across the country,” said Gov. Andrew Cuomo's prepared statement.
In August 2012, the state’s first yogurt summit was held, giving businesses and dairy farmers a chance to discuss options that would benefit the industry.
Since the summit, the state lifted caps under the Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations regulation, which let farmers increase the amount of dairy cows allowed from 199 to 299 without extra costs.
In the 2014-15 executive budget, Cuomo proposed $500,000 for research into the management of acid whey produced by the state’s Greek yogurt industry.
The Dairy Acceleration Program (DAP) also will be increased by $850,000, in addition to the $1 million Cuomo announced in August.
DAP may fund farms up to $5,000 for the development of a business plan or combination business-and-facility growth plan; and up to $4,500 to update an existing Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) or $6,000 to develop a new one.
Idaho was previously the third-largest milk-producing state. In 2013, New York surpassed Idaho production numbers by 57 million pounds. PD
—From news release issued by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo
