Kirk Robinson
Deputy Director
Dairy farmers across the U.S. are in the final week of June Dairy Month, a time to publicize the important role the industry brings to our economy and food supply. It’s a time to recognize hard-working dairy farmers and busy cows bringing us a bevy of foods ranging from milk and cheese to butter, ice cream and yogurt.
I was raised in Grays Harbor County and worked alongside family members operating a dairy and crop farm. I now represent WSDA on our state’s Dairy Products Commission. And when I joined WSDA in 2003, I was an inspector with our Dairy Nutrient Management Program. I personally know about the long hours dairy families and their employees endure.
According to a June Dairy Month proclamation issued by Gov. Jay Inslee, 27 of Washington’s 39 counties have operating dairies, providing jobs and supporting other businesses in their communities.
On an average day, 12 million gallons of milk are consumed in the United States. In our state, 300,000 dairy cows produce enough milk for Washingtonians, as well as serving export markets in 21 countries.
WSDA support and regulation
WSDA plays a key role in supporting Washington’s dairy community – the state’s second largest commodity valued at more than $1 billion a year. Washington is always among the top 10 states for milk production. The industry estimates the economic impact of dairying in Washington at more than $3.2 billion. Dairy exports alone represent $317 million in economic impact to our state.
Our Food Safety Program inspectors ensure the sanitation of dairy farms and milk processors, and the Animal Health team strives to protect the health of herds. Our Dairy Nutrient Management Program works with dairy operators on the proper use of farm nutrients and our International Marketing team, in cooperation with the dairy community, promotes dairy exports across the globe. It also was a topic during our recent trade mission to Mexico.
So here’s a toast—with a glass of milk, of course—to more than 400 Washington dairy families and farms who contribute to the success of our agricultural communities and our state’s economy.