The USDA has recently published its latest Milk Production report, focusing on the milk output from the major producing states in February. The report reveals a significant decrease in milk production when compared to the same period last year, with only a few states showing an increase. Additionally, it provides insights into the number of milk cows, reflecting varying trends across different regions.

This report indicates that the nation’s overall milk production dropped by 2.6% year-over-year, though this figure adjusts slightly due to the leap year. Among the top ten milk-producing states, only Texas and Idaho reported higher milk yields compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, other leading states experienced declines, affecting the national total.

Milk Production Trends Across Major States

February's data shows that among the top milk-producing states, there is a noticeable decline in production levels. Despite a slight adjustment for the leap year, which resulted in a 0.9% increase, most states still showed reduced outputs. California and Wisconsin, two of the largest contributors to U.S. milk production, recorded notable decreases of -7.1% and -3.6%, respectively.

In contrast, Texas and Idaho stood out as the only two states within the top ten that increased their milk production, with gains of +2.4% and +4.7%. These increases could be attributed to various factors such as improved farming techniques or favorable weather conditions. Other states like New York, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, and Iowa all witnessed declines in milk production ranging from -1.7% to -7.1%. This trend suggests challenges faced by dairy farmers in maintaining consistent production levels.

Cow Population Dynamics in Key Dairy Regions

Beyond production figures, the USDA report also examines changes in milk cow populations. In February, the total number of milk cows in the 24 major states was 8.96 million, representing an increase of 75,000 head compared to the same month in the prior year. However, regional differences are evident, with some states experiencing growth while others see reductions.

For instance, California saw a modest rise in its milk cow population despite a drop in milk production. Conversely, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and New Mexico all noted decreases in both milk cow numbers and total milk output, indicating potential issues such as herd management or economic pressures impacting these areas. On the positive side, Texas, Idaho, Michigan, and Iowa reported increases in their milk cow populations, aligning with their improved milk production figures. Overall, the mixed results highlight the complexity of managing dairy operations across diverse geographic locations and climates.