By Scout Nelson
Riverview, LLP, a diversified agribusiness, is set to expand its operations in North Dakota by proposing two large dairies, which could transform the state's dairy industry. The planned 12,500-head and 25,000-head dairies in Richland and Traill Counties, respectively, are poised to more than quadruple North Dakota’s current dairy cow population, which stands at just 8,900 cows across 24 farms.
North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring highlighted the potential challenges and benefits of such a significant increase. The expansion could bolster North Dakota's role as a leading ethanol producer but also raises concerns about the sustainability of small family farms and the overall impact on local communities.
The two dairies are expected to provide substantial economic benefits, such as increased demand for local grain and improved manure management options for farmers. However, they also necessitate large-scale logistical planning to ensure biosecurity and effective integration into local agricultural practices.
Riverview's history of integrating dairy, beef, and crop production positions them uniquely to manage these extensive operations, which still await final permits. Community response has been mixed, with some local farmers welcoming the development for the stability it promises to grain marketing, while others express concern over the disappearing small family farms.
As Riverview moves forward with the permitting process, the broader implications of such expansive dairy operations on North Dakota’s agricultural landscape remain a topic of considerable debate among stakeholders.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-digitalvision
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock, Dairy Cattle