Dairy

Dairy production has long been an important part of American and Arkansas agriculture. Milk and other dairy products from cows and goats remains a staple in the diets of most Americans, however, over the course of the past two decades, fluid milk consumption per capita has declined, and sales of low-fat milk have increased relative to whole milk. Dairy farmers have faced a variety of challenges that have led to a decline in dairy operations in Arkansas.

Arkansas Dairy Facts

• Arkansas produces more than 5.5 million gallons of milk annually from 60 farms across the state.
• There are 3 major milk processing facilities in the state that produce more than 5 million gallons of milk every month.
• In 2022 Arkansas Dairy farmers sold 16.8 million dollars worth of milk.
• The average Arkansas dairy cow produces about 4.5 gallons of milk per day.
• The Arkansas Legislature takes a serious interest in dairy production in the state. In 2022 they passed a dairy stabilization bill intended to help Arkansas dairy producers lead the nation in profitability.