This June, Dairy MAX celebrates National Dairy Month, recognizing the hardworking dairy farm families who nourish communities, drive economic growth and advance sustainable food production.
What began as “National Milk Month” has evolved into a month-long tribute to dairy farmers and their essential role in providing nutritious, responsibly produced foods. Today, over 94% of U.S. dairy farms remain family owned and continue a rich legacy of agricultural excellence, animal welfare and environmental stewardship.
“Dairy farming is more than a livelihood—it’s a legacy built on resilience, innovation and a deep commitment to nourishing communities,” said Keira Lombardo, CEO of Dairy MAX. “This National Dairy Month, we celebrate the farm families who make that legacy possible—and we remain focused on driving real, measurable demand for the milk and dairy foods they produce every day. Their work fuels public health, strengthens communities and delivers value far beyond the farm.”
Beyond its contribution to health and nutrition, the dairy industry remains a significant economic driver, supporting more than three million jobs and generating over $40 billion in direct wages across the United States. Dairy farms are integral to the vitality of both rural and urban communities, driving local economies and ensuring reliable access to high-quality milk and dairy foods nationwide.
As part of its commitment to healthy communities, the U.S. dairy industry has set an ambitious goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 through the U.S. Dairy Net Zero Initiative. This industry-wide effort brings together farmers, processors and partners to advance economically viable practices in areas such as feed production, manure management, energy efficiency and methane reduction. By optimizing water use, improving nutrient management and investing in innovation, the dairy community is working toward a future where every farm can contribute to environmental progress while continuing to provide nutrient-rich foods. These collective efforts demonstrate the industry’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and ensuring dairy remains a sustainable food source for generations to come.
“As a dairy farmer, I see firsthand the care, innovation and responsibility that go into producing the milk and dairy foods we all enjoy,” said Mike Marley, Dairy MAX board president. “National Dairy Month is not just about recognizing our heritage—it’s about celebrating how far we’ve come and where we’re headed. From improving environmental practices to nourishing our communities, dairy farmers are committed to leaving the land better for the next generation. It’s an honor to help share that story and support the future of dairy.”
Throughout June, Dairy MAX invites everyone to celebrate National Dairy Month by exploring delicious dairy-inspired recipes and incorporating dairy into their daily meals. For farm stories, recipes and nutrition information, visit BetterWithDairy.com.
