PIERRE, S.D. — The South Dakota dairy industry contributes to the economy both locally and statewide. In recognition of those contributions, Gov. Dennis Daugaard has declared June as “Dairy Month” in South Dakota.
“South Dakota dairy farmers are an important part of the economic growth of the agriculture industry,” said South Dakota Secretary of Agriculture Mike Jaspers. “Their success is a reflection of their hard work and commitment to improving the industry through innovations in dairy farming and milk processing.”
According to research from South Dakota State University, each dairy cow provides an economic impact of over $26,000. The tax on dairy production provides $28 million to the benefit of South Dakota citizens while employing 6,230 employees. The state’s dairy industry as a whole contributes almost $2.42 billion annually to the state’s economy and employs 6,230 people.
“South Dakota’s dairy farms are becoming more progressive, by adding new technologies such as robotic equipment like udder washers, milking machines and feed sweepers,” said Jaspers. “Local dairy producers provide access to nutrient rich dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt. These products help consumers maintain a balanced diet, while also helping to improve the overall health of South Dakota’s citizens.”
The most recent SDDA Dairy Program data shows the state is home to over 200 dairy farm families. Brookings and Grant counties lead in number of dairy farms with 22 and 19, respectively. Marshall County has the most dairy cows with over 17,300, followed by Grant County with over 16,500 and Brookings County with over 15,700. Almost 7.1 million pounds of milk are sold daily in South Dakota.
For more information about SDDA’s dairy program, go to http://sdda.sd.gov/ag-services/dairy-and-eggs/dairy-dairy-plants/.
Agriculture is a major contributor to South Dakota’s economy, generating $25.6 billion in annual economic activity and employing over 115,000 South Dakotans. The South Dakota Department of Agriculture’s mission is to promote, protect and preserve this industry for today and tomorrow. Visit SDDA online at http://sdda.sd.gov or find us on Facebook and Twitter. SD Ag Chat podcasts can be found in the Ag News section at http://sdda.sd.gov/news. You may subscribe, free of charge, through Google Play Music, iTunes or from https://sdagchat.podbean.com/.
— South Dakota Department of Agriculture
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