Governor Mike Parson Proclaims June As Dairy Month

JEFFERSON CITY, MISSOURI

 Today, on behalf of dairy farmers throughout the state, Governor Mike Parson proclaimed June to be Dairy Month in Missouri. First Lady Teresa Parson presented the proclamation on behalf of the Governor at Swan Creek Holsteins, a multi-generation dairy farm in Cole County. Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn and members of the Missouri dairy industry joined the First Lady for the proclamation.

 “There is no better person to proclaim Dairy Month on my behalf than the First Lady,” Governor Mike Parson said. “She was raised on a Polk County dairy farm and continues to keep that industry dear to her heart. There are few industries more demanding than the dairy industry, where farmers commit to milking and caring for their livestock rain or shine every single day. Whether there is a foot of snow or it’s 100 degrees, our dairy farmers stay the course, and it is an honor to recognize their hard work.”

 “It is a pleasure to celebrate Missouri’s dairy industry on a working dairy farm,” Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn said. “Missouri dairy producers care for their land and livestock while supplying the world with a wholesome product to be enjoyed by the glass or turned to other equally delicious dairy products.”

 Alfred Brandt is the sixth generation to own Swan Creek Holsteins, recognized as a Missouri Century Farm. Alfred, his wife, Sonya, and their son, Sam, milk 120 cows daily and raise corn and hay. Alfred serves as Missouri State Milk Board Chairman and on the boards of Missouri Dairy and the Midwest Dairy Association.

 The Missouri dairy industry is valued at nearly $247.5 million and provides more than $2.2 billion in value-added contribution to the state. Missouri is home to 376 Grade A dairy farms.

 For more information about the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit the Department online atAgriculture.Mo.Gov.  

 To learn more about the dairy industry in Missouri, visitModairy.org. ∆