Efficiency is one way to survive the dairy crisis that currently exists. With milk prices as low as $10.78 for 100 pounds of milk, dairy farmers try to stay optimistic.
Some farmers had to slaughter cows or sell them, but others are getting every drop they can out of fewer cows. Linnea Kooistra is one of these farmers.
“As we take care of the animals, they take care of us,” she told the Chicago Tribune. Kooistra spoils her cows with fine cuisine, pedicures and sand beds.
“You try to get the most milk you can out of each cow to limit the negative effects, the losses,” Kooistra said. “We keep her happy so she gives us more milk.”
Kooistra’s dairy farm is located in northern Illinois, and although Illinois is not a top dairy producing state, it is ranked at 20 with 1,000 dairy farms.
Dairy prices have dropped due to less demand. With the current recession, people are not dining out as much (consuming dairy products) or purchasing expensive cheeses. Another reason is that there is less milk export because other countries are no longer dependent on us for milk.
Despite current economic conditions farm loans are available. If you are interested in purchasing a farm, contact Farm Plus today for more information on farm loans. Call 866-929-5585 or visit online.