Statewide Iowa (RI) — Iowa dairy farmers have been able to pull out a small profit on their milk thanks to issues in other sectors of agriculture.
Iowa State University Extension dairy expert Fred Hall says the drop in grain prices has been a positive for the industry.
A drop in cattle numbers has sent beef prices up, which Hall says has also helped bolster dairy producers. Dairy cows are usually bred to calve once a year, and Hall says selling some calves has brought dairies more income.
Halls says dairies can target the beef market for some of the yearly calves.
Hall says the numbers make it a good proposition for the dairy producers.
Hall says it is an unusual situation where the dairies are able to take advantage of some issues with other segments of agriculture to help make a small profit.
KIWA Staff Photo
