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.

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

The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its Agricultural Prices report July 31, which includes feed costs and milk prices used to calculate the June Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program margins and indemnity payments.

The first milk checks reflecting the Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) revisions are arriving in producers’ mailboxes, reflecting both benefits and drawbacks of the revisions. At the same time, milk prices are softening after several months of relatively strong performances, perhaps the result of increased cow numbers and expanded processing capacity available in the marketplace now, among other influencing factors.

In the news affecting dairy producers this fourth week of July 2025: A partnership has been formed to increase revenue opportunities for dairy farm sustainability practices, fluid milk sales in May remain lower than 2024, the U.S. dairy industry celebrates Julie Callahan nomination for chief agricultural negotiator, and World Dairy Expo announces its 2025 virtual farm tours.

In dairy-related news the third week of July 2025: A group of California dairy farmers files a lawsuit over the state's milk quota program, U.S. ice cream makers pledge to eliminate certified artificial colors by the end of 2027, GDT index bounces back up after four lower sales, landowners can now enroll in the USDA’s Grassland Conservation Reserve Program, and experience World Dairy Expo in person or online.

The global dairy sector made unexpectedly strong gains, growing by 3.2%. Robust consumer demand, favorable milk prices and a shift toward more intensive farming practices largely fueled this expansion, with Asia-Pacific, Europe, Africa and Latin America all displaying growth. While dairy feed production remained stable in North America, Oceania’s reliance on abundant pasture led to a slight dip in its feed tonnage.

In dairy-related news the second week of July 2025: Southern border ports closed to livestock just days after reopening, disaster assistance available for farmers, base change is approaching for calving traits, and World Dairy Expo Dairy Cattle Show entries now open.