Dairy farmers reflect on their favorite moments of 2025, New Year’s goals for their farms, and the experiences that remind them why dairy matters.

Winter might have us reaching for extra layers, but for Southeast dairy cows, cooler days are a welcome break from the heat. Still, winter brings its own challenges. Here’s how local dairy farmers keep their herds healthy, comfortable, and thriving through the cold, wet Southern winter.

Farming isn’t for the faint of heart, but it is for the steadfast, the hopeful, and the people who find joy in moments most of us would scroll past. And today, these farmers are pulling back the barn door and sharing exactly why they’re grateful to do what they do.

Farm safety is something that we have all heard about in various ways and we have heard how to prepare farm equipment and tractors. It is also important to note that farm accidents still happen despite the best preparedness strategies. How prepared are we to help provide life-saving measures in those critical first few minutes when tragedy does strike on our farm?

The future of dairy evolves the old ways. This new generation of farmers is using their voices, their skills, and their values to build something better — for their families, for their land, and for all of us who benefit from their work.

Have you ever walked into a Southeast dairy barn and heard George Strait crooning through the rafters? More and more dairy farmers are playing music in the barn, and it’s not just for the dedicated workers. Music helps cows feel calm, safe, and more productive. As it turns out, a little Sinatra can go a long way when it comes to cow comfort. And when cows are comfortable, everybody wins.

Meet the Traylor family of 56 Heart of Dixie Dairy, where generations of farmers are growing a sustainable future for Alabama dairy and agriculture.

From homecoming tailgates to lab work in boots, university dairy science clubs are doing way more than just talking about milk (though that’s pretty great conversation, if we’re being honest). They’re building community, deepening agricultural roots, and having a little fun along the way.

We asked a few dairy science clubs to share what makes their group stand out, covering everything from signature events and fall meeting dates to how new students can get involved.

This month, we’re highlighting a few of these dedicated students who are making the most of their time on campus by working on their university’s dairy farm. From hands-on animal care to learning the ins and outs of agricultural science, their stories show how meaningful, memorable, and even life-changing a dairy farm job can be.

Did you know that July is National Ice Cream Month? It’s the perfect excuse to cool off with a cone and to celebrate the people behind your favorite frozen treats. We're spotlighting four dairy farming families in the Southeast who turn fresh, high-quality milk into ice cream that's bursting with flavor and local pride.

"How now, brown cow?” 

It’s an old-fashioned greeting that’s become a tongue-twister classic. And besides being a delightful way to confuse people in public, this old-timey phrase is actually the perfect icebreaker for today’s topic: dairy cows. 

June is National Dairy Month, a time to recognize and appreciate the hardworking dairy farmers and the delicious, nutritious products they provide every day. Communities are coming together to celebrate with fun, family-friendly events, tastings, and educational opportunities. There are events across the Southeast this month to celebrate all things dairy.

Across the Southeast, dairy farmers are investing in modern facilities and technology to support their cows’ well-being. It’s housing cows in spacious bedded pack barns, equipping them with activity-tracking collars to monitor health and behavior, or installing rubber mattresses that provide a soft place to rest, farmers are going the extra mile.

At Crist Dairy in Edmonton, Kentucky, how resources are used is a serious consideration. As dairy farmer Bill Crist explains, “Every little piece, whether it’s cows, calves, corn, water, the ground, everything, it all intertwines together in some way, shape, or form.” 

Dairy farmers across the Southeast strive to protect our natural resources and increase efficiencies on the farm: a win-win for the planet, local communities, and supporting small businesses in rural America. As we celebrate Earth Month, let these dairy farmer stories be a reminder of the hardworking families behind that glass of milk and their commitment to producing a sustainable food for you!

Farming has always been more than just a livelihood for many families. To them, farming is a tradition passed down through the generations. But as the world changes, so does the way they approach their work. In response to environmental challenges, these farmers are embracing sustainable practices to ensure that their businesses—and the land they care for—can thrive for years to come.

When the word sustainability comes to mind, what do you think of? Reducing your carbon footprint? Composting? Environmentally friendly farming practices? If you thought of any of these, you are correct! However, sustainability goes beyond environmental impacts—it also relates to nutrition, affordability, and accessibility.

Dairy farming relies on a bond formed between dairy farmers passionate about the industry and the dairy cows they work alongside, including cows' unique four-chambered stomachs. The relationship between dairy farmers and dairy cows is more than caretaking. It is a partnership that shapes a more sustainable agricultural future. This mutually beneficial relationship supports the farm’s sustainability—and that of other industries, too.

As the world faces growing changes and challenges, finding sustainable solutions in food production is more important than ever. Dairy farming is working toward a more sustainable food future. Through innovation and responsible practices, the dairy industry is significantly reducing its environmental footprint, proving that sustainability and productivity can go hand in hand. 

Dairy farmers work with trusted advisors to help make the best decisions for their cows and their farm. As we celebrate National Agriculture Week in March, it’s important to remember a successful farm is built with the support of the entire dairy community.