Cull cow slaughter rates increase despite a smaller dairy herd and increased demand and prices for dairy cow replacements.

Nineteen states including California, Texas and Kansas boosted milk production a combined 598 million pounds in July.

In the news affecting dairy producers' bottom lines the third week of August 2025: The September Class I base milk price falls 23 cents, U.S.-EU trade agreement makes progress for dairy, GDT index down slightly, family-owned farms account for 95% of U.S. farms, and the USDA blocks taxpayer dollars for solar panels on prime farmland.

In dairy-related news this week: FSA office reminds dairy producers that DMC premium payments are due Sept. 1, nutrient management solutions are featured on Wisconsin farm tours Aug. 19-21, FARM Program seeks nominations for Farmer Advisory Council, and a new dairy trade show is set to launch in Vermont in November.

The milk production forecasts for 2025 and 2026 are raised from last month. The cow inventories are raised for both years based on the most recent data in the NASS Milk Production report.

In dairy-related news the second week of August 2025: Dairy companies slash added sugars by nearly 60% ahead of new school year, dairy processing updates, Peace & Plenty Farm recognized as the 2025 McKown Master Breeder, 2026 Holstein Association USA delegate election underway and more.

In news relating to dairy farmers' bottom line in early August 2025: Bills related to milk introduced in House and Senate, DFA acquires W&W Dairy, farmer sentiment weakens, and FSA interest rates continue upward trend.

Halfway through 2025, and the markets are favoring U.S. dairy product exports in part to continued price advantages on the global scene but also improved trade relations with China, which suppressed sales earlier in the year.

Quarterly average prices in July reach highest level on record of $3,010 per head according to estimates from the USDA.