Board leadership from the Dairy Farmers of Washington and Dairy West recently announced they will be joining forces under the Dairy West brand. Additionally, Steve Seppi, who previously served as the executive director of Dairy Farmers of Washington, has been selected as the new CEO of Dairy West. 

Dairy Management Inc. (DMI) conducts research on health trends and modern technologies that are influencing consumer behavior. This research is shared across the industry and used by the checkoff to create programs and strategies to adapt to these challenges and opportunities.

In the news at the end of February 2025: commercialization efforts underway for HPAI vaccine for dairy, data quantifies beef-on-dairy value, and the world’s first lab-made cow milk is released.

As we continue through the new year, U.S. dairy is entering an exciting phase marked by growth and opportunity. The category is experiencing a renaissance, with public figures – including celebrities and other influencers – championing whole milk.

In the news this week: CARB approves Low Carbon Fuel Standard program updates, DFA plans to stop production at Indiana condensing plant in January, checkoff launches new conservation resource, and DCRC annual meeting addresses sustainable dairy cattle management practices.

In the news this past week, HPAI has been confirmed in three California dairy herds, and field trials may begin for vaccines to combat the virus.

If we look at the original purpose for the dairy checkoff, we were established by farmers to drive sales and trust in dairy through research and promotion. Historically, that research focused on dairy nutrition. However, as consumer trends evolved, it became clear that dairy needed to engage in environmental sustainability.