June 08, 2000

LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska, typically considered a corn and beef state, also ranks high in milk production.

In 1999, Nebraska produced 1,139 million pounds of milk, up 8.5 percent over 1998, ranking it fifth for yearly gains in production, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. Only Idaho, California, Arizona and New Mexico ranked higher.

"At a time when production costs are low, it's great that production is high so farmers can maintain capital," said Jeff Keown, a University of Nebraska dairy specialist.

Keown attributed the increase to several factors.

The number of cows in Nebraska increased 5 percent each year in 1998 and 1999, and growth is expected to continue this year, reversing a 30-year decline in numbers. Local dairies are expanding their operations, and more people are finding Nebraska to be a desirable place to start a dairy, Keown said. Currently, there are 720 dairies in the state. Feed costs also have been low, so more farmers can afford to feed their cows a higher concentrated diet, resulting in more milk. Last year's mild winter also contributed to the increase.

Nebraska's growth is part of a nationwide trend, Keown said. In 1999, national herd numbers increased for the first time in 10 years. Richard Grant, also an NU dairy specialist, said growth can be attributed to better feed, better facilities and better breeding.

"When you put all those factors together, you're going to have a better cow than we had 20 or 30 years ago," Grant said.

June is National Dairy Month. For more information on Nebraska's dairy industry, visit the NU Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources dairy website. More information is available in NebGuide G94-1234-A, "Should You Consider Expanding Your Dairy Herd?" available as well at your local Cooperative Extension.

06/08/00-CA

Jeff Keown - Ph.D.
Animal Science
Professor
(402) 472-6453

Rick Grant - Ph.D.
Animal Science
Associate Professor
(402) 472-6442

Cheryl Alberts
IANR News and Publications
(402) 472-3030