“Through the success of Canada's Best Managed Dairy Herds program and Lactanet's Herd Performance Index, we wanted to expand, recognize and celebrate herds not only across the country, but in their diversity in their type of operation and by milking system on event day,” says Shawna Berry, content and creative manager at Lactanet.

In early 2026, one of the bright spots in the U.S. dairy industry is the organic sector, where a nationwide shortage of organic milk has resulted in higher mailbox prices.

A soil health discovery that the Cotter family made decades ago set them on the path to becoming Minnesota’s 2025 Leopold Conservation Award recipient.

Perennial forages improve soil structure, reduce compaction and help leach salts from the root zone. For producers committed to stewardship, perennials are more than cover – they’re a strategy for resilience.

Doug Lathem and Chad Schoonover weren’t trying to prove any kind of point when they made the decision to convert their farming and beef cattle operation near Dalhart, in the Texas Panhandle, to organic production. But when they sat down and took a good, long look at their resources, operating costs and market, it became clear: If they wanted to give the next generation a shot at coming back and making a living on the place, the conventional route wasn’t going to cut it.

Starting an on-farm creamery and selling local products directly to consumers at their drive-through market has given Ryan and Haylee Mensonides optimism for the future of the dairy industry while helping to create a legacy for their four sons.