The USDA’s April WASDE raised 2026 milk production to 235.3 billion pounds as increases to the dairy cow inventory more than offset slower growth in milk output per cow.

February cemented the speed at which U.S. dairy exports are moving in today’s global marketplace.

In dairy-related news during the first week of April 2026: the Holstein Association USA board approves additional changes, U.S. farmers share their planting intentions, USDA expands SNAP dairy nutrition incentives, and World Dairy Expo announces award winners and new board members.

Dairy markets continue moving in the right direction as milk class prices improve substantially month over month as recorded in the latest Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) milk class price report.

Despite dairy margins strengthening – particularly in Class III and Class IV – which offered an increase in the all-milk price and offset sturdy feed costs, it was not enough for February’s margin to sit above the maximum payment threshold of the DMC program.

As we look to the second quarter of 2026, dairy markets have improved and margins are historically strong with forecasts playing in producers’ favors, particularly with incremental improvements in Class III and Class IV.

In dairy-related news the fourth week of March 2026: A survey reveals dairy producer concerns over GHG data requests, Bel invests $200 million to double Babybel production capacity, the All-American Dairy Show is seeking a chair for its Youth Dairy Cattle Judging Contest, and applications are open for the second annual Midwest Dairy Accelerator.

Based on latest USDA monthly Livestock Slaughter data the number of dairy cull cows marketed through U.S. slaughter plants in February 2026 was estimated at 237,300.

Twenty states including Kansas, California and Texas boosted milk production a combined 602 million pounds in February.