Recent Industry News

RECENT NEWS & OPINION FROM NODPA

ADDED DECEMBER 6, 2011

Organic Milk in short supply.
Bonanza for Farmers?

When a product is in short supply, the retail price increases and the price to the supplier increases to encourage greater production. These three basic economic facts may be true for most commodities, especially when there is a short supply and increased demand at the same time but organic dairy is an exception to that rule. For the last six months there have been predictions of shortage in the supply of organic milk as costs of inputs have risen dramatically and consumer demand continues to increases at 8-10% year over year. This shortage in the dairy case is accompanied by the highest ever number of organic dairy farmers choosing early retirement or returning to conventional production as profitability for organic dairy is at its lowest since 2006.

The answer to the problem of shortage in supply was simply stated by former NODPA Board president and Organic Valley producer Steve Morrison in the November issue of NODPA News “If processors work with the interests of their farmers at heart, this necessary adjustment [increase in pay price] can be accomplished quickly and safely.” Steve was suggesting an increase in base pay price of $4/cwt ($0.17per ½gallon) over the next 12 months. The average ½ gallon price for organic milk as reported by the Federal Milk Marketing Order, FMMO, is only $3.77, with Minneapolis MN being the highest at $4.57 and the lowest is Denver Colorado at $3.02 per ½ gallon.

With such a wide price spread and an average retail price at the same level as 2008, passing on an increase to consumers to ensure that farmers have a sustainable living wage should be a win-win for everyone. Obviously it is not that simple as we have many hands that touch the product from farm to table but how does this situation speak to the future of organic dairying? When looking at the priorities for the next year for organic dairy farmers, as the Organic Valley/CROPP board will be doing in the next few weeks, perhaps it would be good to envision how a future pay price will affect the type of operations that we are encouraging. Do we want at least 2/3rds of organic dairy farmers struggling to survive or 2/3rds of farmers thriving and reinvesting in their land? Do we want to mirror the conventional dairy industry where the economies of scale dominate with larger herds and the disappearance of smaller operations from our communities? For more analysis and information go to: 

Organic Milk Market Update >
Organic Pay Price Update >

NOSB – Two firsts in Georgia

The NOSB meeting took place for the first time in Georgia and for the first time the recording was available within a few days. Those that are interested can see it at http://usda.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=3.

Of interest to organic dairy, the meeting approved the continued use of the non-synthetic, vegetarian plant-based source of DHA Omega-3 that Horizon/White Wave use in their products which has contributed to increase sales of Horizon product. In his report to the NOSB Miles McEvoy responded to the concerns that NODPA has raised with the National Organic Program about the certifiers and inspectors lack of consistency in interpreting organic regulations and the increased regulatory burden that farmers now face. He said that it would be a priority in the NOP auditing of certifiers to ensure that there is consistency in interpretation of regulation and that they should require adequate not excessive paperwork from farmers. He also mentioned that the Origin of Livestock Proposed Rule would be published in the Spring of 2012, not a moment too soon. For a further report please download the NOP's December 2011 newsletter.

New NOSB Members

The NOSB also announced the next set of NOSB members who are all very competent and knowledgeable and will serve the industry very well. We welcome their willingness to serve our community. One question that McEvoy raised at the NOSB meeting in Georgia was the need to have every stakeholder at the table that will actively raise issue of concern to their sector. NODPA continually advocates for a producer representative that has experienced both the joys and tribulations of organic production agriculture where the perfect is seldom achieved. A producer who has had to balance the economic necessities of a family farm with the unpredictable weather and marketplace, understands the practicality of balancing integrity with common sense. If you haven’t experienced those long days and sleepless nights, you cannot bring the realities or organic farming to the NOSB table. For more information on the new members:

http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/
NOPNationalOrganicProgramHome

Still time to complete weed survey

The 2011 Northeastern Weed Survey seeks to determine the most troublesome, difficult-to-control weeds in non-irrigated grain crops.  It is designed to assess differences in weed species composition in organic and conventional grain or silage corn, soybeans and wheat as impacted by tillage system and local climate.

This survey is targeted towards Extensionists, CCAs and industry professionals. The 5-question survey is simple and can be completed in 5-7 minutes.  

If you are an Extensionist, CCA, researcher, technical or outreach educator, or other ag professional and you'd like to take the survey, the Cornell University programs involved in the project encourage you to become a participant by emailing Elizabeth Buck at emb273@cornell.edu.    

The online survey will remain open until December 15, 2011. To date, responses for organic systems have been limited. They encourage you to participate in the survey so that they can collect a more robust and reliable data set, which translate into stronger research conclusions for you and your growers.

New England Farmers Union Meeting
on Friday December 9th

Farmers and consumers speaking together are heard, planning together are seen, and advocating together are successful. The only way to amplify the importance of New England agriculture is to work together. Our local voices are being heard and understood at the national level. Join us on December 9 from 1 to 8:00 p.m. as we celebrate accomplishments and plan our next steps. The New England Farmers Union Annual Meeting, December 9 from 1 to 8:00 p.m., is a time to learn about the state of New England's agricultural community and an opportunity to meet new friends and reconnect with old ones. Business Meeting, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Dinner, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Evening Program, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a special presentation by Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine).  For more information go to:

http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=
sdorgsdab&oeidk=a07e4xmtaq647473b7e 

Food Farmer Resolutions
Regarding The 2012 Farm Bill

At their respective annual meetings in November, and through national tele-conferencing, the Federation Of Organic Dairy Farmers (Food Farmers) agreed on a number of resolutions as key points in any 2012/2013 discussions of the Farm Bill. Learn more >

Supplementation of Organic Dairy Cows; Getting Started

Grass based dairies often struggle with the question of what to supplement their cattle with. How does one know what dairy cattle on grass really need? Am I buying too much? Not enough? Is it “balanced?” What about the “missing factors”, etc? Read Jerry Brunetti’s article.

USDA Supports Research and Marketing of Organic Agriculture in 18 States

The grants, totaling $19 million in all, are funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) through two unique programs: the Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative (OREI) and the Organic Transitions Program (ORG). To learn more, click here.

Meat Framers are Getting Butchered

‘Buy 1, Get 2 FREE,’ shouted this week’s flyer from the Big Y World Class Market, a Massachusetts-owned grocery store chain. One-pound packages of ground beef are on sale, as are whole chickens, boneless rump roasts and pork tenderloin. Buy one, get two free is a good deal, and many shoppers will fill their carts with ground beef and other meat products. But you have to wonder if the farmer is making any money on this.”
Read more >

Organic Commodity Futures Trading
is a Step Backwards

“Yes, there is more that we must do if we are to have the right model for pricing organic farm products. The road to that important goal is one of farmers resolving to unite and stand together for economic justice in the market place, not one of turning our future over to the whims of global speculators.” Oren Holle charts the way forward in this commentary piece.
Learn more >

ADDED NOVEMBER 14, 2011

No silver bullets left

Its official – organic dairy is no longer the silver bullet that the early pioneers benefited from ... but is it still part of the ammunition of opportunities that will sustain rural communities and family farms? Read more about the latest results from the University of Vermont’s ongoing study of the economics of organic dairy farming in the state.

Farm Bill to be decided in smoke filled rooms by Debt commission?

Whether or not the Super Committee in Congress will reach agreement that can make it through to legislation, major portions of the 2012 Farm Bill have been decided by the chairs of the two committees without any transparency or public input from stakeholders. Even if, as seems reasonably likely, the Super Committee fails, the consensus is that the House and Senate Agriculture committees will use the work already completed as the basis for the next Farm Bill.

Nevertheless, within the Dairy Security Act, which is presumed to be the basis of the Dairy title in the Farm Bill, there is the opportunity for organic dairy to take the initiative and push for programs that relate to organic production costs and market conditions. Read more >

Feed Price updates

The most recent data and conclusions from USDA, AMS, Livestock & Grain Market News are no different from anecdotal reports from producers across the country. Feed and forage prices remain high and availability is an increasing problem.  With the harvest under way, reports on the weight and quality of corn and soybeans vary from state to state, although yields appear to be below average. The factor causing concern is not only the projected price for corn delivered in February, (12.50 per bushel plus transport ($400+/ ton)) but the availability for those that have limited storage capacity or a lack of credit to purchase feed now. Learn more >

2011 NODPA
Field Day report

One of the best parts of coming to the NODPA Field Days each year is to reunite with old friends - producers and resource individuals alike - who come back year after year. They are able to share some stories from the farm, talk about their children (and grandkids for many), and enjoy good food and lots of laughs. Every year people come interested in learning something new; giving NODPA constructive feedback; celebrating NODPA’s successes; acknowledging the exceptional work of a few; and ready to hunker down and work harder in areas where progress is slow to nonexistent. Learn what happened and see the photos >

ADDED OCTOBER 11, 2011

Take-way from the NODPA 2011 Field Days
High cost of Feed and Inputs + Excessive Paperwork + a 2008 pay-price = disillusion with organic and inability to pay bills. MORE >

There will be a more detailed description of the Field Days highlights in the next NODPA newsletter. To view a slideshow of photos from the Field Days, please click here.

Feed Price Updates

Corn prices are double 2010 levels, matching the highs of 2008. Supply is very tight; some producers are reporting they can’t find any corn, even at $15-16 per bushel. The futures market for conventional corn is fluctuating with every rumor and projection on harvest and the USDA reports that more corn is now being used for Ethanol than for human and livestock feed.
Learn MORE >

Recent Discussions On ODairy
Robust and practical discussions about the benefits of boron supplements in the soil; Normande genetics; treatments for pinkeye; and management of breeding bulls. Learn more >

The Latest e-Organic Dairy Resources
Videos, webinars and more ... Learn more >

SARE Comprehensive Grazing Course
Through a SARE-funded project, partners in multiple states have joined together to deliver a training course focused on comprehensive, holistic grazing planning.
Learn more >

Consider Advertising
in the next NODPA Newsletter
Deadline for the November NODPA News is October 19, 2011. To learn more about advertising and classified submissions, click here. 

ADDED SEPTEMBER 12, 2011:

Irene and post Irene flooding – some organizations that are helping

We pulled together an article in the September NODPA News giving our readers information on how they can help their fellow producers who were hard hit by Tropical Storm Irene. Since that article was published, there has been some serious flooding in New York and Pennsylvania, which has caused extensive damage to Kevin and Lisa Engelbert's farm in Nichols, NY, along with others. Our thoughts go out to all those affected by these forces of nature. The article, Hurricane Irene – ‘After the Storm: How can you help’ highlights a number of organizations that are raising money to assist our farmers in need. Learn more >

NODPA’s 2011 Field Days on September 29
and 30 at Cooperstown, New York

Tired of the rain, the floods, the high price of corn, endless paperwork, and processors that never listen? Then come to NODPA’s Field Days to be re-invigorated by excellent discussion, great food,  a great farm tour and wonderful company where a problem shared can be a problem solved.

The NODPA Field Days will be held at the Cooperstown Beaver Valley Cabins and Campsites, 138 Towers Road, Milford, NY 13807. Learn more & register.

Private label milk- a scourge or a necessity

“While some laud private labels for making organics more accessible and increasing the overall appetite for natural foods, others criticize the grocery giants for profiting from the demand created by trailblazing organic brands. Either way, one thing is certain – if small organic producers are to flourish in this market, they have a fight ahead of them.”(Sara Stroud, The Organic Challenge, Sustainable Industries).
 
“Private Label is a growing business not without its controversies, challenges and benefits.  As a partnership strategy, it has evolved greatly since its first appearance as “retailer controlled” brands.  With Organic in particular, private label allows companies to partner with strategic retail customers, reach additional markets in times of oversupply and make organics more accessible.” Eric Newman, Vice President of Sales, Organic Valley/CROPP Cooperative. Read more about Eric’s view of Private Label Milk.
  
Natural Gas Exploration and its Impact on Organic Agriculture 

Drilling a vertical well into a shale formation only draws the gas from the immediate proximity of the well, so though we have known of this natural gas deposit for years and years, getting to it has been a challenge – that is, until the introduction of a process known today as Hydraulic Fracturing or ‘Fracking’. Read more >

Organic community advocates or circular firing squad – why we need them and who benefits?

When you receive an action alert by email, a mailing with a request for response, or an email/text/facebook/twitter /US mail asking for money to “Protect the Integrity of Organics,” “Save the Sky from Falling,” “Push Back the Encroachment of Corporate America in Organics,” what is your response? Perhaps they will all end up in the recycling bin with a muttered comment of, “haven’t these ******* folks got better things to do?” or “they are only looking to get a salary twice my farming income,” or “organics doesn’t need this.” Read more and get to know your advocacy groups.

Monitoring and Planning Your Forage Grazing System

Want to make more money from grazing while increasing your plant diversity and satisfying those pesky access to pasture regulations? Learn how to “design your grass-based dairy operation to mimic nature’s ecology and rebuild the soil’s ecological capital” by reading this article by Troy Bishopp and coming to NODPA Field Days. Learn more >

ADDED AUGUST 4, 2011:

Featured Farm: Steve Morrison's Clovercrest Farm, Charleston, ME

This July our featured farm is Clovercrest Farm, Charleston, Maine. Clovercrest Farm is a blend of 125 acres of pasture and 125 acres of woodland surrounding the barn with 65 milking cows. Steve Morrison currently farms with his partner Sonja Hyeck-Merlin, his cousin Ross Ludders and his parents, Joan and Bob Morrison, as well as several seasonal and part time employees. To learn more about the operation, click here.

Diversity, A Grazier's Best Friend, Part II

Can understanding and manipulating bidoversity help improve pasture and farm incomes, or even the ecological well-being or the entire landscape? Learn more about the value of plant species diversity by clicking here. To read the first article in the series (Can Forage Mixtures Improve Productivity of Grazing Dairy Cows, Part I), click here.

Beneficial impacts of Terroir on Your Food

In the European food vernacular, there is a term called 'Terrior', essentially an agricultural description pertaining to the  bouquet of flavors in foods that originate from the soil .... Read more by clicking here >

Recent ODairy Discussions

Odairy listserv is always opinionated, informative, repetitive, friendly, insightful, and occasionally controversial. It’s free as a service from NODPA and if you aren’t signed up yet Liz Bawden, as always, has done an excellent job of cataloging the topics covered on Odairy for May and June. Read her latest by clicking here.

eOrganic Webinar Series

eOrganic is an online community of more than 600 farmers and ag service providers who are providing science, experience and regulation, based on a range of certified organic information on the web. One of the resources that eOrganic Dairy has been creating webinars on various  organic dairy topics that can be watched at any time; and it is FREE. Click here to learn more about the current webinars that are available for viewing.

The Latest Feed Prices

15 dollar/bushel corn and none available? What is the fall going to bring as the commodity price starts to hit the price per ton for pelleted feed? What effect will the weather have on yields, harvesting and availability and what will quality of the product be for livestock feed? Our regular update using USDA AMS data which reflects the commodity market rather than individual contracts is available by clicking here >

ADDED JULY 18, 2011

In memory of Kevin Brussell

To lose someone of Kevin’s skill, knowledge, humanity and just plain good sense is painful to us all. We offer our deep condolences to Juli and his family. His long time colleague, friend and former ‘boss’ Chuck Schwab, reflects on Kevin’s contribution to our community, which has been so cruelly cut short.

 

Feed and Pay Price Update

With a healthy demand for product, a rising retail price but a low price gap between organic and non-organic, and a high conventional price to minimize the expense of balancing surplus milk, the outlook for organic dairy processors and consumers appears to be very healthy. For more information on payprice, click here.

Corn prices are rising to 2008 levels and supply is increasingly tight as the non-organic price competes directly with organic. For more details click here.

Trends in Organic Dairy

The trends in non-organic dairy are reasonably easy to predict and historically have followed a 2-3 year curve with significant high and lows in net income, with the only question being what level of extremes it would reach. For insight into the past that can inform our future, click here.

GMO Meeting in Boulder June 2011

On June 28th and 29th a cross-section of the organic and sustainable agriculture community, composed of farmers, consumers, industry and NGO leaders, met in Boulder and confirmed that much more work is urgently needed to educate the public about the multiple benefits of organic and sustainable agriculture. The consensus of the meeting was that, if given a clear choice, a large part of the U.S. and world population would choose to not consume GMOs, or food produced through their use. For a more detailed analysis of the event, click here.

Managing Horn, Face, And Stable Flies

This is the time of year when livestock can be tormented by fly attacks while they are out on pasture especially horn, face, stable, horse and deer flies. Each has distinctive habits, life histories, and management options. For an article that is an excerpt from the publication ‘2011 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Guide for Organic Dairies” written by the New York State Department of Ag and Markets, click here.

 

Northeast Animal-Power Field Days And NOFA Summer Conference

This year the Northeast Animal-Power Field Days (NEAPFD) will partner with the NOFA Summer Conference, August 12-14, 2011, at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, MA. Most animal power workshops will take place at the UMass Deerfield campus (transportation provided for workshop participants). For a full description of draft animal power workshops, click here. Draft Animal Power Network (DAPNet) is the member organization responsible for NEAPFD. Members of DAPNet can take advantage of NOFA Summer Conference registration discounts. For more information on DAPNet membership, click here.

The NOFA Summer Conference will be offering 225+ workshops on organic farming, gardening and land care, draft animals in farming and forestry, homesteading, sustainability, nutrition, food politics, activism, and much, much more. For more details about the conference, click here.

Added June 7, 2011

Make Plans for NODPA's 11th Annual Field Days, September 29 & 30

NODPA’s 11th Annual Field Days and Annual meeting will be held at the Cooperstown Beaver Valley Cabins and Campsites, Milford, New York  on September 29 & 30, 2011. This two day event will highlight the internal and external opportunities and challenges for producers as demand for organic dairy products is on the rise and supply remains static. Click here to learn more about the event, view the detailed two-day schedule, and discover more about sponsorship and tradeshow opportunities.

Can Forage Mixtures Improve Productivity
of Grazing Dairy Cows? Part 1

Pasture management traditionally focused on balancing the quantity and quality of forages for livestock production. This has often resulted in planting a single forage species or simple grass-legume mixtures. However, native grasses contain many species of grasslands, nitrogen-fixing legumes and deep-rooted flowering plants (forbs). Can we learn anything from diverse native grasslands that can be applied to managed pasture? MORE >

Will you invest management time in your roots?

Bill Emmons from Cloudland Farm in Woodstock, Vermont made a good point about the connotation of resting pastures. "The reason farmers question rest is they seem to equate it with non-working, perhaps even laziness, and not being very efficient with a farm's resource. We need to call it something more positive -- say an investment in your grassland bank. That just sounds more business-like." MORE >

Meeting the Pasture Rule Requirements:
Record-keeping resources for the grazing season. MORE >

Recent Discussions On ODairy
Robust and practical discussions about winter teat dips; somatic cell counts; and planting brassicas and other annuals for grazing. MORE >

Added In May, 2011

How's and the Why's of the Pasture Rule

With advice on the essential requirements of meeting the new regulations concerning access to pasture, Pennsylvania producer Dave Johnson is able to share his own experience on crunching numbers and simplifying record keeping. Dave’s advice is that the regulations are here, can easily be met and can benefit livestock and the bottom line. He also touches on the need to take care of ourselves during the process. I especially like the idea of a nap to ruminate on columns of figures! Read the article at: http://www.nodpa.com/production/grazing_pasture_
rule_help_011511.shtml

NOSB Spring meeting: A storm in a tea cup

The spring meeting of the NOSB in Seattle, Washington, was held last month and had a very full agenda, with some of the recommendations creating concern and plenty of comments/action alerts as many felt the integrity of organic and historic production practices were at risk. At the opening session Deputy Secretary Merrigan spoke by recorded videocast and NOP administrator Miles McEvoy spoke in person. They set the tone of the meeting by emphasizing the bigger picture and the need for a collegial interaction between the Board and stakeholders which has been the culture of the Board for many years. For a report:

http://www.nodpa.com/in_nosb_spring_meeting_
051511.shtml

NODPA member survey results

NODPA is a grass-roots organization, relying on the support of its membership, making sure that the needs and thoughts of organic dairy farmers are being heard, and building networks, and providing resources to organic and transitioning farmers. Earlier this year we drafted a survey asking questions about the economic health of their farm, feelings about the new Pasture Rule and whether or not they will be able to comply, whether or not the NOP should require that all certified organic dairy replacements be born from cows managed organically from the last 1/3 of gestation, and where NODPA should be concentrating its energy and resources. Read what producers across the country and from varying size of farms have to say:

http://www.nodpa.com/in_nodpa_survey_
results_051511.shtml

Feed price and retail demand both rising for organic dairy

Last year retail sales of organic fluid milk were stagnant, producers were being paid on utilization and feed prices were the lowest of many years. In 2011 the retail market has rebounded more quickly than expected, confounding economist expectations that consumers are only price sensitive in economically difficult times. Consumers are making choices based on organic practices and we have 20% growth in sales year over year and over 95% utilization of organic milk across the country. We also have a conventional grain market heavily influenced by the world climate disasters and the subsidy for ethanol, which has double the price of conventional corn and soybeans, making any response to the need for increased supply of organic feed expensive for producers. For more detailed information please go to:

Pay Price: http://www.nodpa.com/payprice_update_051611.shtml

Feed Price: http://www.nodpa.com/feed_prices_051611.shtml

Added In April, 2011:

NOSB to meet in Seattle on
April 26th – NODPA comments
on their recommendations

Added April 7, 2011. Animal Welfare recommendations need to be thorough yet practical – perhaps there needs more discussion before recommendations are voted on by the full NOSB Board? NODPA recommends that any decisions are left for the Fall of 2011. To learn more about these issues, check out the analysis in our current email newsletter >

Alfalfa GE Battle Continues

Added April 7, 2011. Attorneys for the Center for Food Safety (CFS) and Earthjustice filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), arguing that the agency's recent unrestricted approval of genetically engineered (GE) "Roundup Ready" Alfalfa was unlawful. Click here for the latest news, and for additional resources.

Transitioning Organic Cows On Pasture

One challenge with grazing the organic dairy herd is helping cows adjust to a new feed source in both the spring and fall. MORE >

Recent Discussions On ODairy

Robust and practical discussions about herd-tracking software; custom heifer raising; flunixin; feeding withheld milk to calves; effects of peroxide on o-rings; and more.
MORE >

Alternative udder health management research in progress
at North Carolina State University

The College of Veterinary Medicine and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University (NCSU) have been investigating alternative udder health management strategies for dairy cattle. MORE >

Nutrient Availabilithy & Soil Tests: What Do They Tell You?

Next to weed control, interpreting soil tests and deciding which fertilizers to use are THE most common questions that organic farmers struggle with.
MORE >



NODPA IS 10 YEARS OLD TODAY!!!

Fill Out Our Member Survey Now>

In celebration of our 10th Anniversary, we are asking all organic and transitioning producers to complete our annual survey. The NODPA board is reviewing its priorities for the 2011 calendar year and would like input from organic and transitioning dairy producers on several important issues. (For more background on the origins of NODPA, click here.)

Thank you for taking the time to fill out this survey. If you know of a producer who does not use a computer, please print off a copy of the survey and pass it on to them.

Download And Print A PDF Version For A Friend >

Fill Out Our Member Survey Online >

Thank you all on behalf of the
NODPA Board and Representatives

ADDED MARCH 14, 2011

Feed Prices, March 2011

Price trends and availability as of March 2011. MORE >

Pay Price & Organic Milk
Market Update, March 2011

Record retail sales and rising prices. Learn more >

New Beginning Farmer Website Unveiled

After a year of development, the Northeast Beginning Farmer Project is pleased to unveil a colorful new website with expanded tools and a wealth of new resources.
More >

Thinking about frost seeding?

Best steps to doing it right. More >

Springtime Challenges for the Grass Farmer: Homeopathic Remedies

Treatments for everything from milk fever and diarrhea to mastitis and pink eye. More >

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ADDED FEBRUARY 7, 2011 >

Defend Farmer and Consumer Choice Regarding GE Alfalfa
On January 27, 2011, the USDA de-regulated Monsanto's genetically engineered alfalfa, in order for it to be widely planted this spring. This was done despite the fact that the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) identified many risks and unanswered questions. Learn more about why this is bad for farmers and consumers ... and what you can do about it. MORE >

Fly Control On Organic Dairies
Fly control is one of the top issues facing organic dairy farmers. This article explores the various approaches needed to establish effective fly control on your farm. MORE >

Kevin Jahnke Fly Trap
How to create an effective, low-cost, low-tech fly trap for your farm. MORE >

Subclinical Mastitis—What You Can’t See CAN Hurt You
Annual losses per cow for subclinical mastitis are estimated at $200 year in conventional herds. For organic producers the losses are likely greater because of the higher pay price per hundredweight and the loss of larger premiums. There are various monitoring systems that detect SCC available and likely one of them is appropriate for your farm. Learn more >

Farm Aid Awards Grant to FOOD Farmers
In December 2010, the Federation Of Organic Dairy Farmers (FOOD Farmers) was awarded a grant of $8,000 by Farm Aid to support the work of its supply management committee. Learn more >

Odairy Discussion
Robust and practical discussions about frustrations related to differing certifier interpretations; the health of conventional versus organic herds; treating mange; managing purchase contracts; and more.
Click here for more >

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ADDED JANUARY 18, 2011 >

GE Alfalfa – What's the rush??
The Federation of Organic Dairy Farmers (FOOD Farmers) representing over 1400 organic dairy farmers across the country is asking you to cal,l email or fax the White House AND the USDA to ask that the USDA declare a moratorium on the planting of GE Alfalfa to allow the implementation of public oversight of regulations to prevent and monitor contamination.

• Learn more about the issue >
• Find out how you can add your voice >

Sizing Up Pasture

How can we best and most easily verify that what the cows are being given access to graze is actually providing what is being documented? Also, how can we make sure we are not wasting pasture – especially in areas where there is a high animal density on farms of relatively small land base? Tips and formulas from Hugh Karreman. MORE >

 

 

Pay Price Updates
Organic dairy will enter 2011 in a surprisingly strong position with sales increasing at a double digit pace over last year and supply tightening across the country. MORE >

Feed Price Updates
The organic grain market has been very stable compared to non-organic with a limited response to the increase in prices of non-organic corn and soybean ... MORE >

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ADDED DECEMBER 2, 2010 >

Enterprise Budgets in Organic Dairy Production

Enterprise budgets can be used as an important decision tool for farm owners and managers. Robert Tigner, Extension Educator at University of Nebraska, Lincoln, reviews the basics of creating an enterprise budget. MORE >

The Economic Costs of Transition
Minnesota economists will study the economic costs associated with transitioning from traditional to organic farming through a new $1.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. MORE >

Recent Discussions On ODairy
Robust and practical discussions about new tax form requirements, heel wart and foot rot treatments, keeping cows milking after the death of a calf, calf-bloating solution, calculating grazing season lengths, how Pasture Policy is affecting small farms with less land base for pasture, palatable weeds, high-density grazing, treated lumber in farm buildings, and more. MORE >

A Dairy Farm’s Environmental Footprint:

Evaluating the Impacts of Conventional and Organic Farming Systems
MORE >

OFRF To Compile Science On Organic Farming Benefits
The Organic Farming Research Foundation today announced the launch of a sweeping research initiative to investigate the potential benefits of organic agriculture. The non-profit foundation recently hired a team to lead the inquiry and intends to release results in the spring of 2011. MORE >

Research Updates from
the University of New Hampshire

Dr. Andre Brito summarizes the results of recent organic dairy-related research studies into the production effects of feeding kelp meal, molasses and flaxseed meal to organic cows. MORE >

Cost-Share Program for USDA
Certified Organic Producers and Handlers
“The USDA National Organic Program, in cooperation with state governments, administers a cost-share program for USDA certified organic producers and handlers. If you are a certified producer or handler, then you may be reimbursed for up to 75% of your costs for organic certification, such as inspection and user fees. You may receive one reimbursement per year for a new certificate or a renewal of certification, provided that the annual maximum reimbursement does not exceed $750 per certificate. This is a great opportunity for organic operators to offset the cost of certification. The program is not competitive - applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis until the money runs out. To apply, contact your state’s Department of Agriculture (or its equivalent) for an application. Click here for contact names, e-mails and phone numbers, or you can call Betsy Rakola, Grants Management Specialist at the National Organic Program: 202-720-3252.

ADDED NOVEMBER 15, 2010 >

NODPA’s 10th Annual Field Days: A Wrap Up

NODPA’s Annual Field Days and Producers’ Meeting took place at the height of the autumn color on October 7th and 8th in Unity, Maine at the wonderful Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association’s (MOFGA) Common Ground Fairground and Education Center. We could not have chosen a better venue or a more helpful and welcoming host. Read all that’s fit to print about what happened (unfortunately there are some things we can’t print – you will have to come to the next Field Days for those!) MORE >

Everything you asked for, and then some

The Pasture Rule was unveiled just before Valentine’s Day last February, offering many of us ‘everything we asked for’. The consequence of getting what we asked for is that now we have some added record keeping to do, and producers and certifiers alike need to get used to it. Parry Clutts has no doubt about his feelings when he says “I think it’s a good rule. Good for the cows in that they are able to express their natural grazing behavior! And good for the consumer in that they are getting milk that is fed at least 30% of their diet from pasture during the grazing season.” Find out more >

Supply and Demand:
Milk Price & Feed Price Trends

As with the weather, wait a while and the milk-demand pendulum will swing. As the non-organic dairy industry starts to go again into free-fall with projected MILC payments for February 2011, retail sales for organic fluid milk increased higher than projected. Industry projections for 2011 are for a 15% increase in organic milk sales for 2011 and processors are actively recruiting producers either by encouraging transition from non-organic, producers increasing production or by producers changing processors. Total organic milk products sales for August 2010 are the highest since December 2008. The retail price has remained steady averaging $3.70/ half gallon, with a country-wide range of $1.65/half gallon, the lowest being in Colorado and highest in Minnesota. The retail price gap between conventional and organic narrowed again by 2¢ to $2.06. More details on milk prices coming in January.

With the price of feed rising and producers being cautious about expanding after being forced to contract supply, we are headed for a shortage in supply for 2011.

The price for organic corn is now within cents of the non-organic bushel price. Conventional soybean meal on 11/11/10 was priced $356 / ton, up 18% from August $301; soybeans was at $13.23/bushel, up 31% from August $10.09; and corn was at $5.70/bushel, up 35% from August $4.21. With organic corn and soybeans, the increase has been about half that of conventional corn but very close to the conventional price with soybeans, although very little is being traded as those that haven’t forward contracted are holding back to assess where prices will go. Organic soybean meal was priced at $780 /ton on 11/11/10, up 4% from August; soybeans were at $16.25/bushel, lower than August by $.30/bushel; and corn was at $5.92/bushel, up 15% from August 2010.

For more on organic feed price trends, click here.

National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) Meeting Highlights

Lisa McCrory attended the NOSB meeting on behalf of NODPA and was able to present comments on behalf of NODPA and all organic dairy producers. Now that NOP has the financing and staff to publish more information and there is increased opportunity to read about the details of these meetings, Lisa highlights some of the issues that the NOSB faces and where she sees the priorities for the future. Read Lisa’s commentary >

University of Minnesota West Central
Research and Outreach Center-Morris

The University of Minnesota’s West Central Research and Outreach Center at Morris was certified organic in June 2010, and they have over 350 acres of certified organic pastures for both heifers and cows. Currently, the organic herd has 86 milking cows and 64 replacement heifers. A majority of the herd calves in the spring, with about 20 heifers and cows calving in the fall.,Assistant Professor of Organic Dairy Production Systems at the University of Minnesota’s WCROC, Brad Heins, sums up his philosophy and approach at WCROC “ Of course, any applied dairy research program should focus on specific questions dairy producers would like answered to improve the profitability of their own organic dairy.” Read more >

Irish Research Finds Norwegian Red x Holsteins and Jersey X Holsteins Most Profitable Dairy Cows

We all have our preference for individual dairy breeds and what we can achieve through cross-breeding; how each pure-bred or cross might behave on individual farms and the challenge of finding the best genetics for a grazing herd. While the grass season for Ireland is a little longer than for the northern United States and Canada, the results of this well designed research may be directly applicable to the grazing operations of North America. Whether you agree that Norwegian Red crosses on Holsteins, New Zealand Friesians, Jerseys or crosses of Jerseys and Holsteins or Holstein-Friesians will be more profitable that any purebreds, this research lays out some interesting facts. Pour a glass of Guinness and appreciate the beauty of Ireland: MORE >

Research and Education Grant Opportunities:

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Food Distribution is now accepting applications for the Direct Farm Sales Grant Program project year 2011. The Program provides funds to Pennsylvania-based businesses that manage or operate a farm stand or farmers' markets, non-profit organizations, farmers and local governments for projects intended to promote new or existing farmers' markets.

Business owners can now apply for their share of $2 million in low-interest loans funded by the Ohio Department of Agriculture through a newly created Agriculture Revolving Loan Fund. The Agriculture Revolving Loan Fund will make loans available for the creation and expansion of businesses and industries that support agriculture and rural Ohio.

Are you a farmer with a new idea you would like to test using a field trial, on-farm demonstration, or other technique? Funding is available to support your on-farm research via a Farmer Grant from Northeast SARE(Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education). A technical advisor--often an extension agent, crop consultant, or other service professional--is required as a project participant. Projects should seek results other farmers can use, and all projects must have the potential to add to our knowledge about effective sustainable practices.

For more information on these grants, click here.

Francis Thicke's New Book Now Available

Drawing from his experience as a dairy farmer and soil scientist, Thicke writes broadly about how we can make food production sustainable. MORE >

OMRI Products List Exceeds 2000 Products

The OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) Products List reached a milestone on October 7, 2010, for the first time exceeding 2000 listed products. MORE >

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Added October 1, 2010

Access to Pasture Resources
from eOrganic’s Dairy Team
Articles, videos and upcoming webinars. MORE >

Much Ado About Worms . . .
... internal livestock parasite control on an organic farm. MORE >

Calculating Dry Matter Intake from Pasture
10 Steps to Calculate Dry Matter Intake from Pasture---It’s Not So Difficult! MORE >

Tracing Organic Kelp
Farmers Helping Farmers – Across the Waters: Tracing organic kelp back to an island farm harvester. MORE >

Recent Odairy Discussions

Robust and practical discussions of pasture policy changes, scouring calf problem, cow bloat, mastitis problems in fresh cows, mob grazing, dealing with army worms, and uses for triticale.
Learn More >

 

Added September 6, 2010

Lots of New Listings in Farmer Classifieds
Grain, Real Estate, Livestock, Equipment, Products. Check it out >

An Interview with Richard Mathews
– Architect of the Pasture Rule

Included in the September NODPA News is an in-depth interview with Richard Mathews, who will be joining us at the October NODPA Field Days. Information covered in the interview spans the history of the creation of the Pasture Rule, equivalency agreements, suggested steps to improve the performance level of accredited certifiers and more.

Click here for a portion of that interview; subscribe to the NODPA News to read it in it’s entirety.

Pay Price & Organic Milk Market in August 2010

Click here for the latest organic milk pay price information, including the retail gap between organic and conventional, total sales figures, price trends and more.

Grain Price Update

The latest prices for organic corn and soybeans, plus spreads between eastern and midwest prices, and price trends over time. MORE >

Why Organic Milk Supply Management?
Finding a way to balance supply with demand that is equitable for producers and processors. MORE >

What’s Organic About Organic?
This award-winning film will be shown at the NODPA Field Days on Thursday afternoon and Friday morning. MORE >

On Farm Fuel Production
Current field-based research is indicating that local farmers have a significant opportunity to produce more of their own liquid fuel, livestock feed, and other high value co-products through oilseed crop production in a crop rotation that is compatible with forage production. MORE >

New NOP Director of Standards
NODPA would like to welcome Dr. Melissa Bailey to her new position. Learn more >

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Added August 11, 2010

Organic and Raw Dairy Workshops at Northeast Organic Farming Association Summer Conference
UMass Amherst, August 13-15, 2010

The 2010 NOFA Summer Conference will feature a number of workshops on organic dairy production and grazing, as well as a raw milk symposium taking place just before the conference begins. MORE >

Maintaining Healthy Productive Pastures
What can livestock producers do to makes the soil both healthy and productive? MORE >

2010 Northeast Animal-Power Field Days
Friday-Sunday, October 15-17
Tunbridge Fairgrounds, Tunbridge, VT 05077

Dedicated to working draft animals in enterprises that support sustainability of  local communities and vital land-based economies. MORE >

Recent Discussions On ODairy

Pasture rule questions on the 30% DMI rule, the minimum of 120 days as the grazing season, and the amount of record keeping. The use of nurse cows. What about cows who refuse their high-energy, low-protein grains? MORE >

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Added July 17, 2010

Raising Calves On Organic Dairy Farms
This fact sheet provides guidance for best management practices. MORE >

What's In Your Farm's Energy Tool Room?
Answers to the many questions facing farmers who are evaluating their energy challenges and opportunities – ranging from managing feed rations to fueling tractors, heating water, trucking manure and cooling milk. MORE >

Forage & Grains
Nebraska dairyman applies raw milk to pastures and watches the grass grow MORE >

eOrganic Plans Pasture Rule Webinars
for Summer and Fall
The eOrganic Dairy Team has scheduled a series of Pasture Rule related Webinars for late Summer and Fall 2010. Mark your calendars. MORE >

PAY PRICE UPDATE!

The full effect of the downturn in demand for organic dairy has been felt by all producers across the country, but we are now entering a period where demand is increasing. Get more details, charts and analysis by clicking here.

FEED PRICE UPDATE!

Get the latest East and Midwest feed prices, along with charts showing multi-year price trends. Click here for more.

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Added June 7, 2010

Pasture Rule Resource Page Updates 
NODPA has started to contact certifiers who work with organic dairy farms to find out what they are offering for paperwork to document compliance with the new Pasture Rule requirements. We have added a new section to our Pasture Rule Resource Page highlighting resources, OSP documents, and educational opportunities that various certifiers and educators are providing. Learn more >

Organic Valley Lays Down
The Law On Raw Milk
Raw Milk Sales are no longer allowed for some organic dairy producers, but okay for others. Last month Organic Valley's Board of Directors voted four to three to prohibit its member dairies from selling raw milk. (Other processors, including Horizon Organic, are not prohibiting their producers from selling raw milk.) Click to read David Gumpert's article about this very contentious issue. 

Teaching Cows to Eat Weeds
On many farms in the Northeast, cows are into their second  (or third) grazing rotation. At this point in the season, one may find that some pastures have some less desirable plants that did not get eaten and they are maturing and going to seed. Wouldn't it be nice if the cows had grazed these plants too? How do we train our cows to be better graziers? How can we teach them to eat weeds? How nutritious are these rejected plants? Kathy Voth, author of 'Cows Eat Weeds; How to Turn Your Cows Into Weed Managers' has written an article explaining all of this. Check it out >

Fresh Cow Health
During the month of March and April, there was a lot of discussions on Odairy regarding issues with fresh cows including milk fever, prolapses, and grass tetany. The discussions on this active list-serv often times encourage us to find someone to author an article to address those topics. Dr. Paul Detloff, staff Veterinarian for Organic Valley, was nice enough to do just that and wrote write an article titled  'Properly Preparing the Fresh Cow'. Go to it now >

Odairy Discussions
Liz Bawden, a NODPA Representative, Organic producer in NY, and NODPA News Co-Editor always does a wonderful job summarizing discussions that have taken place on our Odairy listserv. These article summaries are published in our bi-monthly print newsletter. If there is a discussion mentioned in her article that you find interesting, you can go to the O-Dairy archives and find the discussions, organized by subject heading, in their entirety. There was one technical flaw in the May Newsletter that Dr. Hubert Karreman found and we have amended Liz's article to reflect that error. In her article it was mentioned that Fleet Enema added to a bottle of dextrose or hypertonic saline would be a good treatment for potassium deficiency (Grass Tetany). This is inaccurate; Fleet Enema is high in phosphorous and would not be an appropriate treatment for grass tetany but would be appropriate for a cow that is down due to low phosphorus. Go to Liz's wrap-up now >

Other Resources for Dairy Farmers:
Books for organic dairy farmers.

ADDED MAY 17, 2010

DIAC holds its first meeting – political convenience or the possibility of real change?

Ed Maltby, NODPA's Executive Director, spent some time in DC in late April as part of the Dairy Industry Advisory Committee and has provided us with a nice summary of the meeting. You can read his full report by clicking here. It is encouraging to see that organic dairy is clearly a part of the discussions. A second meeting is schedule for early June.

Highlights from the latest pasture rule training

The last pasture rule training, which took place April 26th in Woodland California was the best attended workshop yet, with over 80 people - many of whom were producers. To read a summary of what was covered and where we go from here, click here.

Free Choice Smorgasbord Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation for Livestock

During the month of March and April, there was a lot of discussions on Odairy regarding whether or not cows should be offered a free-choice mineral bar and the pro's and con's of doing that. Dr. Susan Beal, the Agricultural Science Advisor for the Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture, was happy to write an article for us on the topic. Learn more >
 
Organic Dairy Questionnaire

Pam Moore, an organic dairy producer from Nichols, New York, pulled together a questionnaire asking producers how they have been faring over the past couple of years as a result of the organic milk surplus. We have offered to help circulate this questionnaire with the hopes that she will hear from a wide spectrum of producers from all parts of the U.S. All information will remain confidential. Check out the questionnaire.

Organic Dairy Study Results
for the 2008 Production Year
Over the past 5 years a joint project between NOFA Vermont, UVM Extension and UMaine Extension has examined the economics of organic dairy production in Vermont and Maine, with the study looking only at Vermont for the last 2 years.  What we have found is an agricultural sector that experienced a surge in   profitability and prices in 2006 only to see those profits erode by 2009. Read more >

Improving Net Profit By
Reducing Grain Inputs
The results of research from Chico State University in California studying the impact of reducing grain inputs in an intensive grazing system on milk production, milk quality and income over feed costs. Learn more >

ADDED APRIL 2, 2010

Grain Price Updates
The latest corn and soybean prices, and grain price trends over the past four years. MORE >

NOSB ventures to the West
For the first time in many years the USDA NOP National Organic Standards Board will meet outside of Washington DC. The next meeting of the NOSB will be on April 26-29 at Heidrick Ag History Center, 1962 Hays Lane, Woodland, CA 95776. For more details, click here.

NODPA Awarded Grant From OFRF

The Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) awarded NODPA a grant of $12,000 for a one year project that will organize the NODPA website archives, making information more easily accessible, searchable and downloadable for certified and transitioning organic dairy producers and professionals serving the needs of organic dairy producers. MORE >

Current Research On Molasses As An Alternative Energy Source For Organic Dairy Herds
As organic grain prices have increased and organic milk prices have decreased, dairy farmers are seeking lowercost supplementation strategies. Sugarcane molasses, a rich source of sucrose, seems to be a viable option as a source of energy.
MORE >

Recent ODairy Discussions
The NODPA Odairy listserve has some very spirited discussions about different aspects of the new rule plus many other issues. Liz Bawden summarized some of the posts during January and February. MORE >

Pasture Rule Training March 24, 2010:
A highlight of questions asked, the responses, and further ruminations on the NODPA-Odairy discussion list. Click here for more.

USDA Dairy Industry Advisory Committee (DIAC) to hold first meeting
The long awaited and anticipated first public meeting of the DIAC will take place April 13, 14 and 15th at the USDA’s Whitten Building, Rooms 104 A and 107A, Washington, DC 20250. MORE >

Economic Analysis of Organic
Dairies Coming Soon
The 2008 results of an on-going financial analysis of Vermont’s organic dairy sector by UVM and NOFA-VT have recently been published and Bob Parsons gives us a preview of his upcoming article in the May NODPA News.

PASTURE RULE RESOURCES, ADDED IN MARCH:

Let them Eat Grass

The Pasture Rule is published and the first USDA NOP Pasture Rule Training, covering requirements and resources, was a success. There are other trainings scheduled for different parts of the country, which will be open for certifiers, inspectors, producers and resource professionals. Below are a collection of Pasture Rule resources you'll find very helpful, including a fully updated "Pasture Rule Resource Page."

Pasture Rule Resource Page
Added March 8, 2010. We're continually updating this resource page with new record keeping forms, articles and links to outside resources.

New NOP Pasture Regulation Meets Expectations of Organic Community
Added March 8, 2010. Harriet Behar answers key questions about the Pasture Rule.

Pasture Rule Draws Bright Line
Benefiting Cows & Consumers
Added March 8, 2010. Sam Fromartz reflects on why the fight for the Pasture Rule was so contentious, and what we've gained by passing it.

WEBINAR BY eORGANIC
Added March 8, 2010. A Look at the Newly Released Organic Pasture Rule. Join us for a Webinar on March 17, 5:00 PM to 6:15 PM EDT.

Upcoming Pasture Rule Trainings: Three Pasture Rule trainings are being offered in March and April, taking place in New York, Colorado and California. Producers, certifiers and resource professionals are encouraged to attend. Registration required. Please go to the NOP site for more details.

Highlights from the First Pasture Rule Training
Added March 8, 2010. On February 25, 2010, the NOP held its first of what will be four trainings on the new Pasture Rule. Read this article to learn more about what took place.

Online Resources for Dairy Producers
Added March 8, 2010. Six great resources, from grazing videos to veterinary workshop recordings. MORE >

Articles & Resources Added In February

Keyline plow article sparks discussion
Added February 1, 2010. An article in our January newsletter on the Keyline Plow and its role in soil building has spurred some lively discussion on the NODPA-Odairy discussion list. Click here to read the article by March Krawczyk ... and click here to visit the NODPA-Odairy archives at to follow the thread of conversation that has been happening so far. (If you're registered on O-Dairy, you'll need to log in, then, under "List Name," select ODAIRY. You'll see a list of months. Click on the most recent. If you're not registered on ODairy, go to the listserv page on our web site. There are instructions there for joining, as well as printable instructions.)

Pastureland Cooperative Interviews NODPA Director
Added February 1, 2010. Pastureland Cooperative interviewed Ed Maltby on the proposed new pasture rule. To read the interview, go to:  

http://www.pastureland.coop/Ed+Maltby

Successful Vermont Organic Dairy Farmer Must Sell 200 Cow Farm Because Of Health Issues
Added January 25, 2010. Click here to learn more about this opportunity.

Homeopathy: The Mechanics and Its
Application for the Dairy Farm, Part 1
Added February 1, 2010. Of the therapeutic options available to the organic dairy, homeopathy stands alone in its elegance and simplicity. MORE >

Organic dairy farmers win
Good Farm Neighbor Award
Added February 1, 2010. Organic dairy farmers Joe and Tom Molitor have been named the December winners of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's (MDA) Good Farm Neighbor Award. More >

Announcement of Position Available
Added February 1, 2010. Organic Dairy Production and Management, Assistant/Associate Professor, University of Minnesota Department of Animal Science.
Learn more >

Crop Rotation on Organic Farms:
A Planning Manual

Added February 1, 2010. “Crop Rotation on Organic Farms: A Planning Manual” provides an in-depth review of the applications of crop rotation-including improving soil quality and health, and managing pests, diseases, and weeds.
Learn more >

Resources for the Pasture Rule
In anticipation of the new rule, NODPA has created a Pasture Rule Web Page so that Producers, Certifiers and other Professionals can prepare for a pasture rule that has some teeth in it. The page includes historical documents such as the FOOD Farmers Access to Pasture Recommended Standards (August, 2007), and NODPA's complete Pasture Rule Comments (submitted to the NOP in December 2008). Also on this page you will find useful documents on dry matter calculations, record keeping worksheets for pasture consumption, Organic System Plan (OSP) documentation already being used by Vermont Organic Farmers, LLC (VOF), and more. We will continue to post resources and links as they are made available to us and will update the page regularly with pertinent information.
Click here to visit the resource page.

Added January 11, 2010:

Organic Pay Price

Added January 11, 2010. The full effect of the downturn in demand for organic dairy is being felt by all producers, with no one under the illusion that the situation will improve quickly. Consumer demand is still slightly negative, although there are regional and seasonal fluctuations in sales of fluid milk on a monthly basis; there are only two national buyers for wholesale organic milk; many producers are on short contracts; pay price has dropped; and smaller independent handlers and cooperatives are making difficult decisions about their futur;. Many well established organic dairies that have a good history of working with their processor will have a reasonable year financially but there will be many that have to make difficult personal and professional choices with limited options in 2010. The principal challenges for organic dairy are to manage supply, based on modest and reasonable growth and to balance production by growing a diverse number of organic dairy products rather than relying on the non-organic market to balance any surplus. Organic milk is now a commodity in search of a secure market, with all the problems of a commodity that we know so well from the non-organic milk market. MORE DETAILS>

Organic Feed Summary

Added January 11, 2010. The weather has had a considerable effect on the harvesting as the Midwest has been subjected to wet weather followed by heavy snow storms. With prices at their lowest point in the last two years and very little grain and feedstuff being traded on the organic market, producers are waiting to see what the New Year brings. Wheat trade is at a near standstill and there are confirmed cases of wheat affected with vomitoxin and sprouting in the eastern states. Corn has had some low test weights as the harvest has progressed. MORE DETAILS >

Upcoming Winter Conferences
Added January 11, 2010. Winter time is a great time of year to plan for the coming growing season, network with fellow producers and go to meetings or conferences. We have compiled dairy workshop highlights taking place at some of the more popular winter conferences in the Midwest and the Northeast. For many of these, it is common to tape record the sessions, so if you cannot make it to these events, perhaps you can get a dvd or audio recording of some of these interesting workshops. Learn more >

Recent Discussions On ODairy
Added January 11, 2010. Calf blankets, round bale unrollers, lamnitis, drug treatments in milk, de-wormers, rescuing a hypothermic calf, the
milk-per-acre concept, linebreeding, and anaphylactic shock from vitamins. MORE >

Invaluable Dairy Handbook Just Released From NOFA-NY
Added January 11, 2010. Whether you are transitioning to organic, have been certified organic for years, or are a consultant providing services to organic dairy/transitioning dairy clients, The Organic Dairy Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Transition and Beyond is a wonderful resource. MORE >

Summary of Concerns Regarding A1 and A2 Milk and Dairy Breed Rankings
Added January 11, 2010. Questions and answers about milk rankings. Learn more >

Alfred State Picks Site for New Dairy
Added January 11, 2010. Alfred State College announced the site selected for its new facilities to teach dairy production. Learn more >

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Added December 3, 2009

Producer Handler rule comment
period ends December 21
On October 21st, 2009, USDA issued a recommended decision that, if it becomes rule, would require producer-handlers marketing more than 3 million pounds of fluid milk products each month to be subject to the same pooling and pricing provisions as fully regulated handlers in all Federal Milk Marketing Orders. Currently, all producer-handlers are exempt. If this USDA recommended decision comes to fruition as rule, it has potential to have an impact on the organic dairy marketplace. For more information click here to read Kathie Arnolds article.

At the USDA, What Does Change Mean?
For the first time, advocates can lobby for real change in one sector of the market; organic and sustainable agriculture - and get an ear at the highest levels of the USDA, says Sam Fromartz. MORE >

Promiseland's Organic
Certification Revoked for 4 Years
The USDA Administrative Law Judge supported NOP’s revocation of one of the largest organic livestock and grain operations, Promiseland Livestock, LLC. The judge ruled that they would lose their organic certification for 4 years for failure to supply documentation to back up their organic certification. Click here to download the judgment.

Problems with the "natural" label
The Federation of Organic Dairy Farmers (FOOD Farmers), the umbrella group for organic dairy producers across the country, is concerned about the misleading of consumers by labeling and packaging of dairy products, particularly "natural" labeling. Click here to download the FOOD Farmers press release on the topic.

Research Updates

Sustainable Farm Educators. Northeast SARE periodically looks around the region for articulate, skilled farmers who can go to workshops and conferences that address issues important to other farmers. Could you be one?
Learn more >

Udder Health and Milk Quality on Organic Dairy Farms. The Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont and the Vermont Veterinary Medical Association combined energies this past October to provide a workshop for veterinarians covering the National Organic Program’s certification standards for organic livestock production systems with a focus on udder health and milk quality.
MORE >

UNH Welcomes Dr. André F. Brito. The University of New Hampshire has recently added a new staff person to their Organic Dairy Management Team. Learn more about him.

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Interview with Miles McEvoy, new Deputy Administrator of the NOP

Added November 10, 2009. In this interview, you will find that  Miles is very qualified, bringing over 20 years of experience in organic production and certification. His plans for the coming year, which was presented with incredible detail at the National Organic Standards Board Meeting on November 3, 2009, are very encouraging and we look forward to working with him and helping him achieve his ambitious goals (Click here to download Mr. McEvoy’s power point presentation).
 
Farm Bureau,
MOFGA, get MOOMilkCo off to a good start

Added November 10, 2009.Some very encouraging news is that Maine’s Own Organic Milk Company (MOOMilkCo) will be up and running by the end of November! Earlier this year ten organic dairy farms were dropped by HP Hood and were soon to be without a market for their organic milk. The story behind the creation of the MOOMIlkCo includes the valiant, creative and collaborative efforts between the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) and the Maine Farm Bureau, with support from the Maine Department of Agriculture. Read more >
 
Stonyfield Farm enters into a partnership with Organic Valley/CROPP Cooperative to take over their milk brand

Added November 10, 2009.The recent partnership between Stonyfield Farm and Organic Valley/CROPP Cooperative [click here for full article] has stirred up a lot of conversations on ODAIRY, and at producer meetings. Spirits are high as there are many producers who are now reassured that they will continue to have a market for their organic milk. We applaud Stonyfield Farm, Organic Valley and HP Hood for their efforts in making this happen.  We cannot forget, however, that there are many HP Hood producers whose contracts will be ending before January 1, 2010 and will be without a market for their milk.

A Summary of the National Organic Standards Board Meeting Nov. 3-5, 2009

Added November 10, 2009. Recently appointed Program administrator, Miles McEvoy, gave a very thorough analysis of where the Program is and what the goals are for the future. (You can view his powerpoint from the NOSB meeting by clicking here.) In addition, there was a thorough discussion of the Animal Welfare Recommendations from NOSB's Livestock Committee. (To read the recommendations in full, click here.) For a full summary of the event by NODPA Executive Director Ed Maltby, click here.

More Than A One-Horse Hitch Is Needed
To Get Us Out Of This Mess

Added November 10, 2009. So, how can we continue to build the market demand for organic dairy products? According to Peter Hardin (The Milkweed), this effort goes beyond organic dairy; the dairy industry as a whole needs to be addressed and there are 4 key areas that need to be addressed. Read more >

WODPA Fall Conference Highlights

Added November 10, 2009. The WODPA Field days took place October 13 & 14 in Twin Falls, Idaho. NODPA Board Member Liz Bawden was able to attend and provided a wonderful summary of the two-day event. Read more >

Heirloom Economy
Added September 14, 2009. In our debates why aren’t we discovering how we got where we are, focusing our efforts on creating a sustainable economy or exploring how the rest of the world lead comfortable lives and safeguard their resources? MORE >

Go Local & Prosper ... In More Ways Than One
Added September 14, 2009. Localism is becoming a strategy to save the farm and the businesses and communities that depend on it. MORE>

COMMENTARY
There Is No Right Way To Become A Farmer ...
Added September 14, 2009. Pat Skogen, an organic dairy farmer in Wisconsin, tells her story of coming late and unexpectedly to farming. MORE >

NODPA’s 9th Annual Field Days And Producer Meeting: A Wrap-Up

Added September 14, 2009.
After 8 years the Annual NODPA Field Days returned to the Stoltzfoos’ family farm, Spring Wood Organic Farm in beautiful Lancaster County, PA with a full educational program under the theme “Practical and Efficient Organic Dairy Farming Practices in Hard Economic Times.” Click here for links to several articles summarizing what took place, and what producers learned.

OTHER ARTICLES RELATED TO FIELD DAYS EVENTS:

Counting the Costs that Count on Your Farm
An article by keynote speaker James Landis. MORE >

Lameness in Organic Dairy Cattle
A great article on lameness by Hugh Karreman, who will speak on the topic of animal health at the Field Days. MORE >

Plant Biodiversity: Livestock Farmacy and Pantry
An article on biodiversity by Jerry Brunetti, which touches on the themes of diversified pasture and hedgerows that will be addressed at the Field Days. MORE >

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Change we can believe in and see!!

Added August 6, 2009. USDA has announced that it will subject the National Organic Program (NOP) to a stringent audit and continued oversight by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). MORE >

Opinions and Commentary on Organic Dairy & Beyond

Added August 1, 2009. The last 6 months have seen the world of Organic Dairy turned on its head and, of course, everyone has an opinion on whom or what caused the problem and what a solution might be. Many of these opinions are reflected on the NODPA moderated Odairy listserve and you can find archived summaries of those conversations at http://www.nodpa.com/list_serv.shtm, where you can also sign up for the listserve. We want to share these thoughtful and sometimes humorous commentaries with a wider audience. Click here to view three commentaries: The system is broken – can it be fixed?, an essay by Francis Thicke. An open letter to Stonyfield founders, from the Maine Organic Milk Producers (MOMP). Time to be politically incorrect?, an essay by ODairy regular Kevin Englebert.

Climate Change Ruminations

Added August 1, 2009. In the past year there have been a lot of articles written focusing on green house gas emissions and the impact that cows are making on our environment by burping and defecating. NODPA published a few articles in the July NODPA News sharing what we feel is good information; highlighting the benefits organic management practices, high forage diets, the use of rotational grazing systems on production farms and the disadvantages of liquid manure storage systems. Read the article contributions from Meredith Niles (Climate Policy for Agriculture that Works), Sam Fromartz (The Misguided Science Behind rBGH and Climate Change) and Troy Bishop (The Passing Wind) for some good science, policy, opinion and a chuckle.
Click here for more >

NY Branded Milk!
Added August 1, 2009. An Interview With Dean Sparks of Empire Organics
MORE >

Research initiated to study cattle
health problems facing organic dairy industry in Vermont
Added August 1, 2009. This is the first in a series of NODPA articles describing research efforts underway in Vermont to meet the needs of Organic Dairy Producers.
MORE >

Recent Discussions on ODairy
Added August 1, 2009. Measuring somatic cell counts. Treating an early case of coliform mastitis. Stimulating a cow to calf. Help with a calf scours problem. Dealing with flies. Read more >

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GRAIN MARKET UPDATE
Added August 1, 2009. The latest corn and soybean prices, and grain price trends over the past four years. MORE >

ORGANIC MILK PAY PRICE UPDATE
Added August 1, 2009. New England pay price since 2006, trends in organic fluid milk sales for the past four years, and new data comparing conventional and organic prices.
MORE >

Pay Price And Support Control
Added July 1, 2009. We all knew that the demand for organic milk could not continue to grow at the 20%+ it has over the last three years but the dramatic drop we have experienced this year is unprecedented and unpredictable. To shed some light on the situation we have an article that attempts to compare what the major companies are doing in this new market place. MORE >

GRAIN MARKET UPDATE
Added July 1, 2009
The latest corn and soybean prices, and grain price trends over the past four years. MORE >

ORGANIC MILK PAY PRICE UPDATE
Added July 1, 2009
New England pay price since 2006, trends in organic fluid milk sales for the past four years, and new data comparing conventional and organic prices. MORE >

Organic Initiative Sign-Up
Extended in Some States
Added June 1, 2009. The Natural Resources Conservation Service has given States the option to extend their sign-up period for Organic Initiative funds beyond the initial deadline of May 29th. Learn more >

Milk Quota’s – What should we look for?
Added June 1, 2009. With the introduction of quotas by Organic Valley, we list some areas to look at when considering any proposed quota system from the milk companies.
MORE >

Making the Most of Your Milk Check
What Dairy Farmers Need to Know About Assignments
By Jill E. Krueger, Farmers’ Legal Action Group, Inc.
Added June 1, 2009. MORE > (in PDF Format)

Report from the May 2009
NOSB Meeting
Added June 1, 2009. The National Organic Standards Board met in Washington, D.C. from May 4 – May 6, 2009. Ed Maltby, NODPA Execlutive Director, summarizes the issues addressed at the meeting. MORE >

Job Openings: Director of National Organic Program; Superintendent,
UNH Organic Dairy Research Farm
Added June 1, 2009. Click here to learn more.

Profitability of Organic Dairy, 2007
Added June 1, 2009. The results of an on-going financial analysis of Vermont’s organic dairy sector by UVM and NOFA-VT indicate farms in the study averaged $18,522 net farm earnings, a 0.5% return on owner equity.
Learn more >

Organic Dairy Research and Outreach
at WCROC in Minnesota
Added June 1, 2009. The University of Minnesota will become the first land grant in the Midwest to manage an organic dairy herd that is dedicated to research and education. The growing organic sector in Minnesota will soon benefit from information that is tested by rigorous science. More on this initiative >

Update on Dairy Management
Research at Cal State Chico
Added June 1, 2009. The CSU Chico Organic Dairy Unit is now into its 3rd lactation as a seasonal, managed intensive grazing, organic dairy operation. Learn more >

FOOD Farmers Speak Out on Abuse of the Producer Handler Exemption
Cincinnati May 11, 2009: Kathie Arnold, Rick Segalla and Tony Schilter supported by Dan Fullencamp presented testimony on behalf of the Federation of Organic Dairy Farmers (FOOD Farmers) to the public hearing that was held to consider proposals seeking to amend or remove the producer-handler provisions and revise the exempt plant provisions applicable to all Federal milk marketing orders.

Click here to download the testimony.
Click here to download the Food Farmers' letter.

Puzzled By PI Spikes?
Added May 7, 2009. Things you can do to reduce the count.
MORE >

What's the Value of High Quality Forage?
Added May 7, 2009. The key management factors influencing forage yield and quality, and an economic comparison of 3 forage systems. MORE >

COMMENTARY
Producers Working as Partners
Added May 7, 2009. It is important that producers use collective marketing to achieve a price level that is fair for all involved rather than going it alone and only serving just oneself, says Charlie Johnson, an organic grain producer in South Dakota. MORE >

Recent Discussions on ODairy
Added May 7, 2009. Not surprisingly, the current state of supply and demand in organic dairy and worry about how the spring flush will play out were common threads in discussions this past month. But there were lots of other management and health issues that became the focus of discussion. Read more >

DC Update, April 1, 2009
Access to pasture update, status of new appointees, and the generally positive outlook for organic in Washington. MORE >

PRESS RELEASE, APRIL 1, 2009
June may be Dairy Month ...
... but not for organic family farmers that sell to Horizon Organic, who will see a pay cut of $1/cwt for their milk. NODPA urges consumers to buy more branded organic milk.
MORE >

Thinking Outside The Fence
Added March 31, 2009. Organic Dairy Looks to Robotic Milker to Increase Family Time
Learn more >

Managing Cereal Grains for Forage
Added March 31, 2009. Cereal grains are a versatile crop that can be harvested for forage or grain. MORE >

Nutritional Wisdom of the Body
Added March 31, 2009. Behavior-Based Management for Animal Well-Being. MORE >

Grain Market Update
Added March 31, 2009. Compared to two weeks ago, organic grain and feedstuff prices were steady on light demand and moderate offerings with trade at a near standstill. MORE >

PRESS RELEASE, MARCH 11, 2009
HP Hood and Organic Valley cut
organic family farmers income ...
... and NODPA praises Horizon Organic for honoring their contract with their farmers. MORE >

Organic pay price declines as processors panic over spring flush of milk and declining growth in sales
Added March 6, 2009. An analysis of recent pay price drops by NODPA Executive Director Ed Maltby. Learn more >

Petitions Sent to USDA Requesting End of Producer-Handler Exemption
Added March 6, 2009. Producer-handlers, those vertically integrated businesses that produce and process milk, have been exempt in most Federal Milk Marketing Orders (FMMO) from paying pooling costs that other handlers have been required to pay. That may soon end. More >

Recent Discussions On ODairy
Added March 6, 2009. Sub-clinical hypocalcemia. Bale processors. Dealing with those "deals". These are just a few of the topics addressed recently on ODairy. More >

Update on Pasture Rule and Administration Changes
Added March 6, 2009. Ed Maltby, NODPA Executive Director, reviews the new Obama ag appointments, and provides a quick update on the status of the pasture rule. MORE>

Washington State WIC Program
Rejects Organic Milk. Don't Let This
Go Unchallenged.
Added March 6, 2009. Recently the Washington State WIC Nutrition Program came out with a decision to NOT include organic milk on their list of WIC-approved foods. Learn more about their decision, and NODPA's response.

Grain Market Update
Added March 9, 2009. With spring approaching and a very soft conventional market, producers are selling their inventory at the lowest prices of the year. Learn more.

MILK FEVER
Added January 31, 2009. “It’s all about internal mineral balance!” says Dr. Richard Holliday.
MORE >

Organic pay price declines as processors panic over spring flush of milk and declining growth in sales
Added March 6, 2009. An analysis of recent pay price drops by NODPA Executive Director Ed Maltby. Learn more >

Petitions Sent to USDA Requesting End of Producer-Handler Exemption
Added March 6, 2009. Producer-handlers, those vertically integrated businesses that produce and process milk, have been exempt in most Federal Milk Marketing Orders (FMMO) from paying pooling costs that other handlers have been required to pay. That may soon end. More >

Recent Discussions On ODairy
Added March 6, 2009. Sub-clinical hypocalcemia. Bale processors. Dealing with those "deals". These are just a few of the topics addressed recently on ODairy. More >

Update on Pasture Rule and Administration Changes
Added March 6, 2009. Ed Maltby, NODPA Executive Director, reviews the new Obama ag appointments, and provides a quick update on the status of the pasture rule. MORE>

Washington State WIC Program
Rejects Organic Milk. Don't Let This
Go Unchallenged.
Added March 6, 2009. Recently the Washington State WIC Nutrition Program came out with a decision to NOT include organic milk on their list of WIC-approved foods. Learn more about their decision, and NODPA's response.

Grain Market Update
Added March 9, 2009. With spring approaching and a very soft conventional market, producers are selling their inventory at the lowest prices of the year. Learn more.

Get Step-by-Step Organic Farm
Plan Help in New Workbook
Added January 31, 2009. Transitioning to organic farming? Already switched, but needing to update your farm plan? Get step-by-step help in the Organic Whole Farm Planning Workbook, just released by Ohio State University’s Organic Food and Farming Education and Research (OFFER) Program. MORE >

Recent Discussions On ODairy
Added January 31, 2009. It has certainly been busy on ODairy recently. The discussions began with rat control, and ranged from the feeding of young calves to outwintering, to the best workboots ... to cannabilism in cows. MORE >

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT:
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NORTHEAST ORGANIC FARMING ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK
Posted January 21, 2009. For more information on NOFA-NY and the position, click here. TO APPLY: Email resume and a letter of interest, inclusive of salary requirements, prior to 2/16/09, to: schaskey@peconiclandtrust.org (Current President, NOFA-NY), or Scott Chaskey c/o Quail Hill Farm, PO Box 1268, Amagansett, NY 11930.
Resume reviews will begin immediately.

Access to Pasture Rule:
Win, Lose or Draw for Producers?
Added January 11, 2009. In this final installment in our ongoing coverage of the pasture rule process, NODPA Executive Director Ed Maltby summarizes what's been happening over the past several years. You'll also find a link from this article to comments submitted by farmers around the country. Read more.

Pasture Access Rule Listening
Session Transcripts Posted
Added January 11, 2009. The National Organic Program has posted the transcripts of listening sessions held in December in Pennsylvania, Texas and California on its proposed access to pasture regulation. The transcripts are available as PDF files on the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service website.

Organic Feed Update
Added January 11, 2009. Trade in organic grain leading up to the holidays was slow with prices running about the same as January 2008 and roughly double that of conventional grain. With corn between $9-9.50 a bushel on the farm there are many rumors of a surplus of corn being held back from trading but nothing has shown in the marketplace and the price for16 and 18% prepared feed has not come down. For more prices, click here.

What Obama Means for Organic
Added January 11, 2009. There are hints that his ag secretary Tom Vilsack may have an open mind to alternative viewpoints. A column by Sam Fromartz. Read more.

Dehorning Dairy Cattle With Genetics

Added January 11, 2009. Looking at the economic advantages with polled dairy cattle

. More >

From Our 2008 Field Days:
Added November 8, 2008
Ed Maltby, NODPA's Executive Director, summarizes what happened at the Field Days. MORE >

NODPA Field Days 2008 Photo Gallery
The Field Days, as usual, was a great gathering of farmers who met to discuss politics, marketing and production. In addition, over 50 people joined Klaas and Mary-Howell Martens to learn more about the Marrowstem Kale (Bonanza Variety) trial taking place at Bejo Seeds, take a tour of the Lakeview Organic Grain facility, spend time at the Martens’ 1400 acre farm, and visit some of the surrounding corn fields that will be soon harvested for grain. Scroll through photos of the event.

Latest edition of WODPA's Newsletter
Now Available Online
Western Organic Dairy Producers Alliance publishes a newsletter, Integrity. The December issue is now available in PDF format. Click here to download it.

Feed Price Dropping Slowly
Added December 1, 2008. With only about 80% of corn harvest complete, prices are steadying at November 2007 prices, averaging around $9 per bushel. There are reports of producers not selling or “hording” grain to see which way the economy is headed and what the final harvest volume will be. Availability and quality is always an issue. Check out the latest feed prices >

Organic Ag & The US Farm Bill: Some Insights
Added November 14, 2008. OTA and The Organic Institute, in partnership with the National Center for Appropriate Technologies (NCAT, home of the ATTRA project), Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF), and the Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service (MOSES), presented a one-day educational conference, "Growing U.S. Organic Agriculture: Accessing the 2008 Farm Bill," at the Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis campus on November 12. At that conference Richard Mathews gave a presentation on how the program works and the goals for the program. For a PDF of his presentation, click here.

Organic Grain Update
Added November 8, 2008. The USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) recently released a new publication, Using Vertically Coordinated Relationships to Overcome Tight Supply in the Organic Market. Here is a link to that outlook report: http://www.ers.usda.gov/Publications/VGS/2008/10Oct/VGS32901/

For updated pricing for organic feed on the NODPA web site,
CLICK HERE.

NODPA SE Field Days Photos
Added October 8, 2008. The organic dairy community gave Arden Landis a great send-off with the pasture walk at his farm on September 18. The weather was great, the land beautiful and over 100 attendees appreciated the work that Arden and Caroline have put into building an excellent grazing operation. There will be a more complete article in the next NODPA News, but you can scroll through photos of the event.

National Organic Coalition opposes proposed Sustainability Standards from Leonardo Institute
Added September 27, 2008. The National Organic Coalition is deeply concerned about the adverse impact that a sustainable agriculture label will have on the urgent need to increase our nation’s organic acreage and production practices. View their letter to the Leonardo Institute, which NODPA has signed on to. (in PDF format)

The Latest East & Midwest Organic Grain & Hay Prices
Added September 14, 2008. The wheat market is seeing a bit of weakening as many users are quickly filling their needs after a good harvest. No new crop soybean contracts were reported as producers are still in a wait and see mode, especially with the cooler, wet weather. Some big volumes of new crop corn contracts are being sold from $10.00 per bushel to $10.75 per bushel. There just seems to be a lot of uncertainty in that market. Read more, including graphs of price for soybeans and corn for 2008 ….

Funding Opportunities
Research and planning grants in the Northeast and North Central US
Added September 14, 2008. Click here for a listing of funding opportunities in the Northeast and North Central US.

Recent ODairy Discussions
Topics recently ranged from how to wrap rained-on forages to what kinds of tests for cows before purchase. MORE >

September NODPA News Now
Available To Members For Download in PDF
The latest edition of NODPA's informative, 40-page by-monthly print newsletter is now available for download in PDF format to all NODPA members and newsletter subscribers. Click here to download it now!

The Latest East & Midwest
Organic Grain & Hay Prices
Added September 5, 2008. Flood, drought, hurricane, ethanol, high world prices – any wonder it’s difficult to keep up with how much your winter feed will cost. At NODPA we at least try to keep you informed. Click here for more.

RESOURCE

European Union Launches Promotional Campaign for Organic Food and Farming
The European Commission announced recently that it is launching a new Organic Farming Campaign for the European Union. Under the campaign slogan: "Organic farming. Good for nature, good for you," the promotional campaign aims to inform consumers about the meaning and benefits of organic farming and food production. The campaign will focus on increasing consumer awareness and recognition of organic products. As part of the initiative, a new multilingual website for organic farming provides an electronic "toolbox" that offers marketing materials in 22 languages free of charge in order to promote organic production and farming.

The Latest East & Midwest
Organic Grain & Hay Prices
Added August 3, 2008. Organic grain farmers are talking, but there's not much action yet: They are assessing the market but most don’t want to do anything yet as they are waiting to see what the crop will bring. There was some trading in new crop corn sales and some new crop spring wheat and hard red winter wheat sales, but no drop in prices. Availability will be the next big question. MORE >

So You Want To Learn More About Organic Dairy?
Added August 3, 2008. Organic dairy has been growing rapidly over the past 10 years and with that, a number of educational opportunities have evolved. Karen Hills, Crop and Soil Technician at the University of Vermont has compiled a very nice summary of opportunities from degree programs, non-degree programs, and internships. Contact us at NODPA if you know of other opportunities that should be added to this list! Learn more >

Recent Organic Research
On Organics & Food Supply
Added July 29, 2008. Below you'll find links to recent organic studies. The articles focus on "Can organic feed the world?" and the economics of organic transition. All are posted on our web site in PDF format. To open or download a research article, just click on one of the links below:

• Organic agriculture and the global food supply
  Research finds that organic methods could produce enough food on a global per capita basis to sustain the current human population, and potentially an even larger population, without increasing the agricultural land base.
• Can organic agriculture feed the world?
  A forum discussion on the same topic as in the first article, above, by the same authors, with response and commentary by others.
• Summary of Economic Studies of Organic Dairy Farming in Wisconsin, New England, and Quebec
  Research summary tries to answer 3 questions for farmers considering organic: What are the rewards? How long will it take to get them? What will it cost?
• Transition to Organic Cropping Systems Under Risk
  An analysis of the risks, returns and optimal adoption strategies for a representative Minnesota farm switching from conventional to organic cropping systems.
• New Michigan Global Yield Comparison Study: Challenges Critics Who Claim Organic Farmers Can’t Feed the World
• Land Stewardship Project Myth Buster #21:
  Sustainable farming CAN feed the world

More Organic Milk Sought in Northeast
Added July 29, 2008. The word from all the major organic dairy buyers on what they're looking for at this time. Farmers should be sure to have a market secured before beginning the 12 month herd transition. Here's contact information from buyers that will help you secure your markets. MORE

So You Want To Learn More About Organic Dairy?
Added July 21, 2008. For those in search of more directed educational opportunities, there are several options to choose from including university programs, workshops, and internships. Learn more >

Price & Availability of Corn & Forage: How should producers prepare for the Fall?
Added July 5, 2008. So: What is affecting price and availability? In general, people are assuming that tonnage of grain will be short this year and much of the corn that is for sale is, in a sense, being set aside to wait and see. Other factors affecting price include speculators and Hedge Fund investors who are joining the commodity market as they exploit the uncertainty and short fall in supply against rising markets. Read Lisa McCrory’s article for a full analysis.

The Latest East & Midwest Grain & Hay Prices
Analysis, data and some advice from Iowa State University on replanting after the flood, plus the latest numbers on East and Midwest grain and hay prices, and a chart showing cost changes over time. MORE >

Recent ODairy Discussions
Added July 5, 2008. Will consumers change (or not change) their purchasing decisions in the marketplace driven by the tightening economy? Is there any research that would support that transition to organic production does not necessarily mean a drop in milk production? Plus, lots of tidbits and advice: bull calves become sexually active at 7-8 months of age, and how to stop diarrhea. Summarized by NODPA Board Secretary Liz Bawden. MORE >

PRESS RELEASE: June 18, 2008
NODPA stands for a living wage for organic dairy farm families
NODPA appeals to all processors to listen to their farmers and work with them to increase their base farmgate pay price by a total of 60¢ a gallon to move towards family farm profitability. We also support a temporary moratorium on transitioning livetock farms to organic. To learn more, and check out our new ad promoting this issue, click here.

The Price of Feed
June 20, 2008: Analysis--Grains and oilseeds lower on profit taking and outside markets. Plus the latest numbers on East and Midwest grain and hay prices, and a chart showing cost changes over time. MORE >

Coalition of Organic Groups Presses for Immediate Publication of Pasture Access and Livestock Origin Rules
June 16, 2008: NODPA and the National Organic Coalition joins with Federation of Organic Dairy Farmers, WhiteWave Foods (Horizon Organic), HP Hood (Stonyfield brand), Organic Valley, Stonyfield Farm, Humboldt Dairy, Organic Choice, Pastureland Cooperative and Organic Dairy Farmers Cooperative to urge USDA to publish the access to pasture and origin of dairy livestock standards immediately. We've updated this, with a fuller history of the initiative.
Learn more >

The Retail Food Dollar and How Farmers Receive Their Share
June 7, 2008: What portion of the organic milk retail price goes to the farmer, and what will it take to keep farmers profitable for the longterm? Enjoy this fascinating look at the complexities of the retail organic dairy market. MORE >

DC Update, June 6, 2008
More roadblocks to pasture access and livestock origin rules. Farm Bill: back to the President soon for another veto? Attention turns to appropriation bills. MORE >

The Price of Feed
June 6, 2008: The latest numbers on East and Midwest grain and hay prices, plus a charting of cost changes over time. MORE >

DC Update, June 1, 2008
The Farm Bill is very close to becoming law despite its many clerical and political missteps. See what everyone is saying about it. MORE >

NOSB Update, June 1, 2008
While the Congress was on vacation, the volunteers that serve on the hardworking citizen advisory National Organic Standards Board were at work trying to make sense of the National Organic Program ... from adding Okra to the national list, TAP reviews and organically certified protein for fish.  MORE >

Comment on access to pasture and origin of livestock
A letter from NODPA to the NOP addresses publication of the access to pasture rule and the publication of an origin of livestock rule. MORE >

DC Update, May 23, 2008
Farm Bill Updates, and NOP dairy update. MORE >

The Price of Feed
Added May 21, 2008. The latest organic grain and hay prices in the East and Midwest, plus a pay price/retail price comparison chart for organic milk. MORE >

DC Update, May 16, 2008
The Farm Bill is final on the President's desk, awaiting a veto and then a certain override of that veto. Here are some of highlights related to organic and sustainable agriculture. MORE >

Realistic Expectations: What Are They?
Let's ALL get real about our expecations of price & profit, says Darlene Coehoorn, MODPA President. MORE >

Reading the NOP Leaves
What does the recent reorganization at the National Organic Program mean for organic farmers? Samuel Fromartz speculates. MORE >

DC Update as of May 9
Is the Farm Bill battle over? Learn more >

The Price of Feed
Added May 9, 2008. The latest organic grain and hay prices in the East and Midwest, plus a pay price/retail price comparison chart for organic milk. MORE >

DC Update as of May 1
Congress passes two-week farm bill extension. National Organic Coalition and National Campaign for Sustainable Agriculture meeting in Baltimore later this month. National Organic Standards Board meets just afterward, same location. Learn more >

More Organic Milk Sought in Northeast
Added May 4, 2008. The latest word from processors seeking organic milk. MORE >

Press Release: April 28, 2008
HP Hood LLC refuses to address increase in costs of production for their organic family farms and demands money back for a one month overpayment of 17 cents a gallon.

Press Release: April 30, 2008
HP Hood LLC refuses to address increase in costs of production for their organic family farms
Also demands money back for a one month overpayment of 17 cents a gallon. MORE >

A Quick Update from DC re Pasture Rule
April 25, 2008: The access to pasture rule is moving up the review hierarchy in Washington. Click here to learn more about the details.

Interviews with Ed Maltby and Gary Hirschberg On Boston's WBZ Radio
April 22, 2008: WBZ 1030 in Boston ran two interviews on organic dairy. NODPA director Ed Maltby provided the farmer perspective on high fuel costs and their impact on farmer profits, while Stoneyfield's Gary Hirschberg spoke to the impact of these costs on organic businesses.

Click here to listen to Ed's interview.
Click here to listen to Gary's interview.

Why Organic Dairy Farmers Should Learn To Love High Organic Grain Prices
Kevin Engelbert argues that, instead of condemning organic crop producers for finally getting parity price, we should all celebrate. Added April 4, 2008.

ACTION ALERT: Posted March 28, 2008
Stop the Attack on Public Health and the Environment in the Farm Bill
Proposed Farm Bill language would restrict USDA’s ability to prohibit the use of pesticides in certain conservation programs. MORE >

Profitability for Organic Dairy Farms for 2006
Added March 28, 2008. The organic dairy sector has become a haven for smaller family operated farms, but they have not escaped the situation where rising feed, fuel, and other expenses continue to chip away at their profitability. Click here for more on this detailed analysis by Bob Parsons.

NODPA Press Release Inspires Spirited Dialogue On Production Costs and Pay Price
March 14, 2008. On March 7, the NODPA board and members of the FOOD Farmers organizing committee published a press release on the Gristmill web site calling attention to rising production costs for organic farmers--and the limited response to this crisis from processors. The press release brought a response from Gary Hirschberg of Stoneyfield Farm, and a final response from NODPA Executive Director Ed Maltby. To learn more about the issue, and to browse the back-and-forth responses, click here.

Pennsylvania Pasture Lab Update
March 14, 2008. The deadline for budget requests to the House Ag Appropriations sub-committee--which decides the future of the pasture lab--is next week. Revisit our article on this topic and send in your letters of support! MORE >

• Who or What Sets the Organic Milk Farmgate Price? - by Ed Maltby, January 2008
  
• From the NODPA Desk - by Ed Maltby, January 2008
  New Tools for the Organic Dairy Farmer - by Liz Bawden, January 2008
  
• Pennsylvania's Milk Cover-up - and Reconsideration - by Samuel Fromartz, January 2008
• The AgroFuels Craze - by John Kinsman, January 2008
• Big Brother in the Barnyard - by John Peck and John Kinsman, January 2008
• Livestock Issues Discusses at the NOSB Meeting, November 2007 - by Emily Brown Rosen, January 2008
• What Makes a Cow Organic? A Tortured History - by Samuel Fromartz, November 2007
• From the NODPA Desk - by Ed Maltby, Executive Director, November 2007
• Organic Dairy Policy and Production Trends - by Kathie Arnold, November 2007
• FOOD Farmers Sends Letter to USDA Protesting Consent Agreement with Aurora - by Kathie Arnold, November 2007
• Thought for the Day: Eat More Pasture - Do Less Work - by Ed Maltby, November 2007
• Organic Dairy Processors & Farmers Meet to Protect Organic integrity - by Ed Maltby, November 2007
• Organic Dairy Policy and Production Trends - by Kathie Arnold, November 2007
• Organic Call to Action on Farm Bill - by Samuel Fromartz, November 2007
• Perspectives on the Organic Grain Supply, Q&A compiled - by Kathie Arnold, November 2007
• The Organic Summit - by Kathie Arnold, November 2007
• Measuring 30% DM from Pasture - by Lisa McCrory, May 2007
• Organic Dairy Policy and Production Trends - by Kathie Arnold, May 2007
• NOSB Nixes Animal Cloning in Organic - by Kathie Arnold, May 2007
• A Farm Bill Year Calls for Farmer Activism - by Maureen Knapp, May 2007
• Grain Grain where's the Organic Grain? - by Kathie Arnold, May 2007
• Grand Opening: California State University's New Organic Dairy Program, May 2007
• NOSB Pasture symposium.... by Ed Maltby, May 2006
• NOP issues draft rewrite on Dairy replacements - by Kathie Arnold, May 2006
• Results of NOPDA survey on Organic Dairy Replacements - by Kathie Arnold, May 2006
• What is NOPDA and how is it Organized - by Ed Maltby, May 2006