The USDA released its Ag Prices report on Dec. 31, including factors used to calculate the November 2025 Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program margins.

Most dairy producers should anticipate smaller milk checks again this month, based on a review of Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) milk class prices.

In dairy-related news as 2025 comes to a close: Dairy industry praises Julie Callahan confirmation as chief agricultural negotiator, milkfat supply outpaces demand in recent months, and genetic sequencing results released for Wisconsin dairy herd detection of HPAI.

Twenty states including California, Kansas and Idaho boosted milk production a combined 863 million pounds in November.

The past year provided ample opportunities for dairy producers to capitalize on market conditions with both longstanding and new risk management strategies.

USDA data show Americans’ per capita consumption of dairy is up 0.6% over the past five years, 8% over the past 15 years and 12% over the past 30 years.

Prices for U.S. replacement dairy cows kept rising into the fourth quarter of 2025, reaching their highest level on record in October, according to latest quarterly estimates from the USDA. Meanwhile, average cull cow prices reached a peak in September 2025, held relatively steady in October and showed signs of stabilization as the year closes.

In the news affecting a dairy producer's bottom line the third week of December 2025: The Class I base milk price slumps to start 2026, fluid milk sales are down slightly in October, and the GDT index drops for ninth consecutive event.

From fairs and festivals to international markets, dairy is proving its staying power. Consumers continue to embrace it for both taste and nutrition, while new investments position the industry for even greater success. Dairy isn’t just having a moment – it’s building momentum.