California Ag Network

Category: Dairy Industry

  • Applications Available for Class X of Jersey Youth Academy

    The tenth Jersey Youth Academy will be held July 11-16. The application period for the class is open until Dec. 1. 

    Jersey Youth Academy provides a unique educational experience that motivates youth of high school and college age to prepare for and succeed in their adult careers in some aspect of the dairy industry, but specifically working with Jersey cattle and/or Jersey products.

    Program Objectives

    The program is designed around three broad objectives for participants:

    • First, to learn why and how the Jersey breed has grown and prospered, and what the future holds for the Jersey business;
    • Second, to meet leaders from the Jersey community and from across the support industry, to gain their unique insights about the dairy business with a specific focus on the Jersey cow; and
    • Third, to learn about the range of career opportunities that involve the Jersey breed and Jersey products, and begin the journey that will take them to success working in the Jersey dairy business.

    The program is conducted every two years, with participants chosen from a national pool of applicants. Selection is based on merit, motivation and preparation for the program as reflected in experiences, accomplishments and goal statement of the applicants. All program costs, including round-trip transportation for participants, are paid by the Academy.

    Eligibility

    Applications will be accepted from Jersey youth who are juniors and seniors in high school or enrolled in an accredited two-year or four-year vocational school, college, or university. Applicants under the age of 22 who have completed a high school degree or equivalent and are currently employed in dairy herd management will also be considered.

    Applications are accepted only from legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia.

    A youth can participate in Jersey Youth Academy only once. 

    — Story provided by the American Jersey Cattle Association 

  • FDA Issues Emergency Use Authorization for Generic Drug to Prevent New World Screwworm in Cattle

    FDA’s 14th EUA against NWS

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Bimectin (ivermectin) injection for the prevention of New World screwworm (NWS) infestations in cattle when administered within 24 hours of birth, at the time of castration or at the appearance of a wound Bimectin injection is not authorized for use in lactating dairy cows or in calves that will be processed for veal.

    Based on the available evidence, the FDA has concluded it is reasonable to believe that Bimectin injection may be effective for the prevention of Screwworm infections in certain cattle when used as authorized, and the known and potential benefits of the product outweigh its known and potential risks.

    “This authorization reflects the FDA’s commitment to expanding generic drug options against New World screwworm,” said Timothy Schell, Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine. “By authorizing both generic and pioneer products, the Agency is ensuring producers aren’t dependent on a single manufacturer or product to protect their herds.”

    To maintain the continued safety of the food supply and avoid drug residues, it is critical that cattle producers carefully follow the 35-day slaughter withdrawal time and not administer this drug in lactating dairy cows and calves that will be processed for veal.

    Bimectin injection is a generic version of Ivomec, which was authorized in February 2026 for the prevention of NWS myiasis in cattle. The FDA previously approved Bimectin injection for the treatment and control of various parasites in cattle. This EUA is only for the Bimectin injection and does not authorize other dosage forms of Bimectin.

    Bimectin injection is available over the counter without a prescription. Cattle producers are responsible for using Bimectin injection in accordance with the product labeling and fact sheet.

    This EUA will be effective until it is revoked or the HHS Secretary terminates the declaration that the potential public health emergency presented by NWS justifies the emergency use authorization of animal drugs for NWS.

    Bimectin injection is sponsored by Bimeda Animal Health Ltd. based in Ireland.

  • WUD Pursues Funding for Tule Subbasin Farmers

    Western United Dairies has submitted two proposals to USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), seeking federal conservation funding for dairy farmers and agricultural lands in the Tule Subbasin.

    The proposals build on WUD’s work through LandFlex and other regional water and conservation efforts. The goal is to bring more resources directly to farmers to help address some of the biggest water and nutrient challenges facing the region.

    If funded, the two projects would provide different options for irrigation efficiency, groundwater recharge, dairy wastewater treatment and nutrient management.

    Building on What Farmers Are Already Doing

    Through LandFlex, WUD has worked directly with dairy and forage farmers in Lower Tule and Pixley, as well as selected Eastern Tule operations. That work has given our team a firsthand look at what farmers are dealing with as the region works toward groundwater sustainability. It has also shown us there is strong interest in voluntary conservation programs when they are practical, flexible and supported by people who understand farming.

    WUD submitted proposals through two RCPP funding pathways: RCPP Classic and an Alternative Funding Arrangement (AFA).

    The RCPP Classic proposal would use established NRCS conservation practices to help farmers make longer-term investments in high-efficiency irrigation, water and nutrient management, groundwater recharge and other eligible conservation projects.

    The AFA proposal would provide more flexibility to coordinate two targeted conservation strategies: managed aquifer recharge to help address groundwater overdraft and drought and vermifiltration to treat dairy wastewater, improve nutrient management and reduce the potential for nitrate movement to groundwater.

    Vermifiltration uses earthworms and microorganisms to treat liquid manure. The process can reduce nutrient and organic loading while producing treated water and recovered nutrients that can be reused on the farm.

    Why WUD Is Pursuing RCPP Funding

    Dairy farmers in the Tule Subbasin are facing increasing constraints on groundwater while also managing nutrients and working to protect groundwater quality. These issues are closely connected.

    Recharge can help replenish the groundwater system. More efficient irrigation and water management can help farmers make better use of the water they have. Improved nutrient management and wastewater treatment can help protect groundwater quality while making better use of nutrients already on the farm.

    RCPP is an opportunity to bring federal conservation dollars into the region, helping farmers make these investments voluntarily.

    WUD also has a strong starting point through LandFlex. Several potential projects are already taking shape, and additional farmers have expressed interest in conservation projects if funding becomes available.

    A Local Partnership

    WUD did not develop these applications alone. We are grateful to the local organizations and industry partners that provided information, input, and letters of support, including the Lower Tule River Irrigation District GSA, Pixley Irrigation District GSA, Tule Basin Land & Water Conservation Trust and Milk Producers Council.

    If the proposals are funded, these organizations and technical partners could bring local knowledge, farmer connections and additional expertise to the projects. Their input has helped us develop proposals grounded in what will actually work for farmers in the Tule Subbasin.

    What Happens Next

    Submission is only the first step. Both proposals are competitive and will go through NRCS review before funding decisions are made.

    If awarded, WUD will work with NRCS and project partners to finalize eligibility and ranking requirements and begin farmer outreach and enrollment.

    WUD also plans to develop a Farmer Dashboard if funding is awarded, giving participating farmers one place to apply, submit required documents and track their projects through the process.

    We will keep members updated as the proposals move through NRCS review and share enrollment information if funding is awarded. — Story contributed by Western United Dairies

  • USDEC, NMPF Thank Administration for Maintaining Pressure on Canada

    The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) expressed their strong appreciation to the Trump Administration for its continued focus on using all available trade tools to resolve outstanding U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) dairy market access issues with Canada. With a 50% tariff on certain Canadian imports taking effect on Saturday, the organizations urged Canada to return to the negotiating table and prevent further escalation.

    “We appreciate the Administration’s persistence in standing up for American dairy producers and exporters who have waited far too long for Canada to live up to its promises,” said USDEC President and CEO Krysta Harden. “Canada has had plenty of chances to fix its unfair market access practices and close the loopholes it’s used to dodge its dairy commitments under USMCA. This weekend’s action makes clear that patience has run out. We look forward to continuing to work with the Administration until Canada resolves these issues and America’s dairy farmers and exporters see the full benefits USMCA promised.”

    “This action sends an unmistakable message that Canada’s ongoing disregard for its USMCA dairy commitments carries real consequences,” said NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud. “It’s time for Canada to stop looking for workarounds and instead sit down in good faith to resolve these outstanding USMCA dairy implementation issues. Canadian retaliation would only serve to force the United States’ hand in escalating its leverage. The objective should be for both our countries to prevent increased friction and build on the progress made through weeks of negotiations.”

    Under USMCA, Canada committed to providing meaningful additional duty-free access for U.S. dairy exports through a series of tariff-rate quotas (TRQs). Canada’s administration of those TRQs has repeatedly resulted in chronic underfill. In addition, Canada has continued to exploit loopholes to sidestep USMCA disciplines on dairy protein exports. NMPF and USDEC have consistently urged the Administration to prioritize resolution of both issues as part of the ongoing USMCA Joint Review and continue to call on Canada to come to the table and negotiate in good faith. — Story contributed by the National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council

  • Dairy Industry Delivers on School Nutrition Commitment

    As students across the country return to the classroom, the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) today announced that America’s dairy processors have fulfilled the Healthy Dairy in Schools Commitment, eliminating the use of certified artificial colors in milk, cheese and yogurt products sold to K–12 schools for the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs.

    According to the IDFA, the achievement marks the second consecutive year the U.S. dairy industry has delivered on a major voluntary commitment to improve school meals. Last year, processors met the Healthy School Milk Commitment, limiting added sugars in flavored milk to no more than 10 grams per 8-ounce serving—part of a broader trend that has cut added sugars in flavored school milk by 57% since 2006. This year, they removed certified artificial colors from school dairy products ahead of the 2026–2027 school year. The dairy industry has also lowered added sugars in flavored yogurts to meet new school program standards, while preserving the taste and appeal that students choose to consume. Research shows removing flavored milk from school meals alone leads to a 37% decline in overall milk consumption.

    “America’s dairy processors made two ambitious promises to parents, students and school nutrition professionals, and they delivered on both,” said IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes. “For the second year in a row, America’s dairy processors have taken meaningful action to improve the foods served in schools. Our industry isn’t waiting to be told how to improve—we’re investing, innovating and leading, while staying focused on what matters most: giving children wholesome, nutrient-rich dairy foods they enjoy and will actually eat and drink.”

    The Healthy Dairy in Schools Commitment, announced by IDFA in 2025, eliminated the use of Red 3, Red 40, Green 3, Blue 1, Blue 2, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 from milk, cheese and yogurt products sold for reimbursable school meals. The commitment went beyond existing federal requirements and most state standards, providing a nationwide approach for schools, families and dairy processors. Participating companies pledged to discontinue affected products or reformulate them using alternative ingredients.

    “America’s dairy processors promised to cut added sugar and remove artificial dyes from school dairy products — and they delivered,” said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “American children deserve wholesome, nutritious food made without unnecessary additives. This is the kind of leadership we need from the food industry, and we will keep working with farmers, food producers, and schools to make America healthy again.”

    — Story contributed by the International Dairy Foods Association

  • Real California Milk Foodservice Launches New High-Protein Resource Hub

    As consumer demand for high-protein menu options continues to reshape the restaurant industry, Real California Milk Foodservice has launched a new protein-focused resource center designed to help chefs and foodservice operators capitalize on one of today’s fastest-growing menu trends.

    Available at RealCaliforniaMilkFoodservice.com/protein, the new hub brings together culinary inspiration, nutrition information and practical business resources that demonstrate how California dairy ingredients can help operators create craveable, protein-forward menu items that drive guest satisfaction and profitability.

    From breakfast through late-night menus, milk, cheese and yogurt naturally deliver high-quality protein while offering the flavor, versatility and functionality chefs rely on every day. The new online destination showcases how Real California dairy products can elevate menu innovation across virtually every restaurant segment.

    “Our goal is to provide foodservice professionals with practical tools that make it easier to respond to evolving consumer preferences,” said Katie Cameron, Director of Foodservice at the California Milk Advisory Board. “Protein continues to be one of the strongest drivers of menu decisions, and California dairy offers operators a simple, delicious way to deliver the protein consumers are looking for while creating memorable dining experiences.”

    The new protein section features:

    •           Chef-inspired, protein-rich recipes featuring Real California dairy ingredients

    •           Menu development ideas for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacking occasions

    •           Business insights on leveraging protein trends to increase menu value and profitability

    •           Guidance for incorporating dairy into protein-forward menu strategies

    •           Educational resources highlighting the nutritional benefits and versatility of California dairy products

    •           Inspiration for building balanced, craveable dishes that appeal to today’s health-conscious consumers

    The new protein hub complements the Real California Milk Foodservice website’s extensive collection of recipes, supplier resources, chef inspiration and product information, further strengthening its role as a comprehensive resource for foodservice professionals seeking innovative dairy solutions.

    California is the number one dairy state. Its family dairy farms are focused on delivering the wholesome goodness of California milk while creating a more sustainable future for dairy in the state.

  • NAIDC Elects New Leadership for 2026-2027

    North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge® (NAIDC) recently elected new leadership, including one new board member and the 2026 – 2027 Executive Committee. As stated in the NAIDC mission statement, the organization strives to “Develop tomorrow’s dairy leaders and enhance the progress of the dairy industry, by providing education, communication and networking among students, producers and agribusiness and university personnel.”

    In its 24-year history, Dairy Challenge has evolved significantly to meet the ever-changing needs of the dairy industry. The Program originally beganin 2002 with 56 students from 13 colleges competing in one national event. Today there are more than 500 dairy students participating annually throughout the national competition, Dairy Challenge Academy and four regional events. The volunteer Board of Directors represents the many university professionals, dairy producers and industry sponsors who contribute to these opportunities.

    Newly elected to the 15-person volunteer NAIDC Board of Directors is:

    •  Brian Waymire, Nedap Livestock, CA. — Brian Waymire serves as a Large Herd Specialist for Nedap Livestock, working with dairy producers throughout the Western United States to implement technology-driven management solutions that improve dairy performance, labor efficiency and animal health. A graduate of California Polytechnic State University, Waymire began his career in dairy management in 2010 and has managed dairies ranging from 400 to 7,000 milking cows. His previous management experience includes Giacomini Dairy in Petaluma, Tony De Groot Dairies in Hanford, Alhem Family Partnership in Hilmar and Jones Farms in Stevinson. He later served as a Premier Account Manager with Alta Genetics before joining Nedap. A proud alumnus of the Western Regional Dairy Challenge, Waymire has remained actively involved with the program by hosting Dairy Challenge practices, mentoring students at regional contests and Dairy Challenge Academy, judging both regional and national competitions and serving on the Western Regional Planning Committee. He credits Dairy Challenge with providing foundational skills that continue to shape hisprofessional career and values the program’s ability to bridge classroom learning with real-world dairy management.

    The NAIDC Executive Committee for 2026–2027 includes:

    •  Chair: Ted Halbach, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI.

    •  Vice Chair: Gail Carpenter, Iowa State University, Ames, IA.

    •  Associate Vice Chair: Erin Spangler, Riverview, LLP, Morris, MN.

    •  Promotions & Engagement Chair: Elizabeth Eckelkamp, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN.

    •  Finance Chair: Heather Weeks, Farm Credit East, Bedford, NH.

    •  Program Committee Chair: Trevor DeVries, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.

    Continuing their terms on the board are:

    ·         Doug DeGroff, Progressive Dairy Solutions, Tulare, CA.

    ·         Jeff Elliott, Balchem, Amarillo, TX.

    ·         Jordan Fisher, Mapleview Dairy, Madrid, NY.

    ·         Matt Groen, Cargill, Guelph, ON, Canada.

    ·         Jen Lane, Cargill, Hanford, CA.

    ·         Lauren Mayo, North Carolina A&T University, Greensboro, NC.

    ·         Linda Parreira, Farm Credit West, Tulare, CA.

    ·         Craig Walter, Valley Ag Software, Poynette, WI.

    The Board also recognizes the service of retiring board member Megan Mouw, Elanco Animal Health, Riverdale, California. Throughout hertenure, Mouw contributed her leadership and expertise in support of Dairy Challenge’s mission to prepare the next generation of dairy industry professionals. The organization extends its appreciation for her years of volunteer service and dedication to Dairy Challenge.

    — Story contributed by Dairy Challenge

  • IDFA Supports USMCA Review

    The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) was in Mexico City to support ongoing review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Becky Rasdall Vargas, IDFA’s senior vice president of trade and workforce, is engaging with U.S. government officials and industry stakeholders to advance IDFA’s priorities: preserve USMCA and strengthen it for dairy.

    “USMCA is essential to the competitiveness of the U.S. dairy industry and to the strength of North America’s agricultural economy,” said President and CEO Michael Dykes. “As the review process moves forward, we support U.S. negotiators efforts to resolve outstanding dairy commitments and preserve this agreement that is so vital to the economic growth, investment and long-term certainty for U.S. dairy processors and consumers across the region.”

    Mexico is the largest export destination for U.S. dairy products, buying $2.57b of U.S. dairy exports in 2025. As part of the review process, IDFA has consistently advocated for addressing current USMCA commitments that have not been implemented. IDFA has advocated preserving the agreement for the continued stability and growth of the U.S. dairy sector in North America.

    “The USMCA review presents the best opportunity U.S. dairy has had in six years to take a fresh look at and build on the strong trading relationship we have with Mexico,” said Rasdall Vargas. “While USMCA dairy trade issues commonly focus on Canada, ultimately, every trade relationship has areas to improve upon, and Mexico is no different.  IDFA appreciates Mexico’s constructive engagement in negotiations and looks forward to supporting a positive and speedy conclusion of the USMCA review with Mexico.”

    To learn more about IDFA’s trade policy priorities and advocacy efforts, visit www.idfa.org.

    — Story contributed by the International Dairy Foods Association

  • IDFA Supports USMCA Review

    The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is in Mexico City this week to support ongoing review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Becky Rasdall Vargas, IDFA’s senior vice president of trade and workforce, is engaging with U.S. government officials and industry stakeholders to advance IDFA’s priorities: preserve USMCA and strengthen it for dairy.

    “USMCA is essential to the competitiveness of the U.S. dairy industry and to the strength of North America’s agricultural economy,” said Michael Dykes, president and CEO of IDFA. “As the review process moves forward, we support U.S. negotiators efforts to resolve outstanding dairy commitments and preserve this agreement that is so vital to the economic growth, investment and long-term certainty for U.S. dairy processors and consumers across the region.”

    Mexico is the largest export destination for U.S. dairy products, buying $2.57b of U.S. dairy exports in 2025. As part of the review process, IDFA has consistently advocated for addressing current USMCA commitments that have not been implemented. IDFA has advocated preserving the agreement for the continued stability and growth of the U.S. dairy sector in North America.

    “The USMCA review presents the best opportunity U.S. dairy has had in six years to take a fresh look at and build on the strong trading relationship we have with Mexico,” said Rasdall Vargas. “While USMCA dairy trade issues commonly focus on Canada, ultimately, every trade relationship has areas to improve upon, and Mexico is no different.  IDFA appreciates Mexico’s constructive engagement in negotiations and looks forward to supporting a positive and speedy conclusion of the USMCA review with Mexico.”

    To learn more about IDFA’s trade policy priorities and advocacy efforts, visit www.idfa.org. — Story contributed by the International Dairy Foods Association

  • UC Offers Toddlers Free Milk for Study

    Two-year-old children who drink cow’s milk are being sought to participate in a 12-month study by the UC Nutrition Policy Institute, a part of University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Milk will be provided for free to participants in the Milk Type in Toddlers Study, or “Milk TOT” study, being conducted in Northern California, the San Francisco Bay Area and the Central Valley.

    “I enrolled my child in the Milk TOT study because we need more data-driven evidence to help us make informed decisions,” said one participant. “I feel good about my family making this contribution to pediatricians and families — and we get free milk.”

    Milk provides children with calcium, protein and vitamin D, which are essential for health and brain development. In the U.S., the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children switch from whole milk to low-fat or nonfat milk after age 2 to reduce their intake of saturated fat and calories.

    However, the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans have changed. The guidelines — issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and USDA — emphasize whole milk for children of all ages.

    “The truth is that we need more research to understand which milk type is best for young children,” said Kassandra Bacon, NPI project policy analyst. “The purpose of this UC study is to see how the type of milk toddlers drink affects their health, growth and development.”

    Researchers with the Nutrition Policy Institute are recruiting children ages 23 to 30 months old. Approximately 500 toddlers will be randomly assigned to drink either whole fat or 1% fat milk starting at age 2. The scientists will assess the toddlers’ diet, health and developmental outcomes.

    “We will follow each participant for one year, collecting baseline and follow-up data,” said Ryan Williams, a NPI project policy analyst and registered dietitian who is involved in the research.

    For 12 months, the scientists will measure each child’s height, weight, waist and head circumference. They will ask the parents what else the toddlers eat. They also will ask parents to visit a designated lab to check their child’s blood profile — lipids, cholesterol, insulin resistance and vitamin D — cognitive development and gut microbiome diversity.

    “I was a bit nervous as toddlers usually did not like the (blood) draws, but the study booked an appointment for me and the process was quick and easy,” said a participating parent.

    The assigned milk type will be delivered to participants free of charge via a grocery delivery service. Parents will receive advice from a registered dietitian to support healthy milk consumption as part of a balanced diet. Participants will also receive monthly newsletters with general health tips and earn up to $275 in gift cards by completing the study.

    “It has been very swift and easy,” said a participating parent in the San Francisco Bay Area. “The milk comes regularly, and you can even choose a delivery window that works for you.”

    Another parent said, “Very simple, easy, and added bonus of having a nutritionist to ask questions to, plus monthly handouts.”

    Participants for the milk study must meet these requirements:

    • Child must be 23 to 30 months old and have public or private medical insurance
    • Child’s parent/legal guardian must be 18 years or older
    • Child must live with the participating parent/legal guardian in one of the 21 designated counties (see list below) for the next year
    • Child’s parent or guardian must speak English or Spanish

    Children are ineligible for the study if they are:

    • lactose intolerant
    • allergic to milk protein

    Lorrene Ritchie, emeritus UC Cooperative Extension nutrition specialist and former NPI director, and Anisha Patel, pediatrician at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health and professor in the Division of General Pediatrics at Stanford University, are the principal investigators for the study. The research is primarily funded by a grant from the National Institutes for Health with additional support from the California Dairy Research Foundation.

    The study is recruiting participants in the 21 counties below:

    • Alameda
    • Butte
    • Contra Costa
    • El Dorado
    • Lassen
    • Marin
    • Monterey
    • Placer
    • Sacramento
    • San Benito
    • San Francisco
    • San Joaquin
    • San Mateo
    • Santa Clara
    • Santa Cruz
    • Shasta
    • Solano
    • Sonoma
    • Sutter
    • Yolo
    • Yuba

    For more information about the research and to sign up for the study, visit https://npi.ucanr.edu/milk.

    — Story contributed by the UC Ag and Natural Resources