North Dakota Dairy Industry Celebrates Growth

By Scout Nelson

June is recognized as National Dairy Month, a time to celebrate dairy products, healthy nutrition, and the dairy farmers who work every day to supply fresh milk and other dairy foods. Dairy farming continues to play an important role in supporting local communities, agriculture, and family nutrition across North Dakota.

A December 2025 NDSU Extension publication reports that North Dakota experienced an 88% decrease in milk cow inventory between 1992 and 2024, reducing the number of cows from 80,000 to 10,000. Despite this decline, new dairy projects are creating optimism for the future of dairy farming in the state.

The NDSU Extension publication highlights that two new dairies are currently being developed and could “inject approximately $270 million in initial investments and add 37,500 milk cows to North Dakota’s dairy cow inventory.” These projects may help strengthen local economies, create jobs, and support agricultural growth in rural communities.

Expanding dairy and animal agriculture can provide major economic benefits to local areas. A previous study commissioned by the North Dakota Farm Bureau examined the impact of building a 1,000-cow dairy in Stutsman County. The report estimated value-added benefits of more than $2.7 million for the local economy.

Dairy milk also provides important nutritional benefits for people of all ages. The Gonna Need Milk website explains that milk supports a healthy immune system and contains several essential nutrients. An 8-ounce glass of milk provides protein, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and vitamin A that help support daily nutrition needs.

Heres a healthy Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie recipe from the NDSU Extension website. The smoothie includes frozen banana, vanilla yogurt, nonfat milk, peanut butter, and optional ingredients such as cocoa powder and chia seeds. The recipe provides a nutritious and simple drink option for families during Dairy Month celebrations.

National Dairy Month continues highlighting the important work of dairy farmers and the value dairy products bring to nutrition, agriculture, and local communities across North Dakota.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-dimasobko