There are infinite factors that go into producing a quality forage. Soil microorganisms, nutrients, composition and compaction all play a huge role in the ability of a forage crop to thrive, and that’s before the seed is even planted and the weather plays its role.

2023 was a tough and “below-average” year for many dairy producers in the Northeast. While they remain cautious heading into 2024, new processing capacity in New York and other opportunities across the region bring excitement and optimism to the dairy community.

Intermingled with large population centers, dairy producers, processors and marketers in the Northeast and New England must stay in tune with local demands and global conditions. That results in a medley of opportunities and concerns.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) recognized seven of the nation’s top cattle operations as Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) regional winners for their environmental conservation efforts during the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show in New Orleans on Feb. 1.

Digest highlights

• USTR to press for Canadian USMCA dairy compliance
• Canadian dairy farmers to receive fourth DDPP payment
• Fed raises interest rates
• GDT index falls
• 2022 Census of Agriculture response deadline is Feb. 6, 2023
• Other news, briefly