EPA and Hershey Commit $2M to Boost Dairy Sustainability

Thursday, August 24, 2023

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and The Hershey Company have jointly committed $2 million to assist local dairy farmers. The funds will support the adoption of environmentally friendly practices by dairy farmers in Land O'Lakes' eastern region milk shed, in collaboration with the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and Land O'Lakes, Inc.

This initiative, known as "Sustainable Dairy PA," has been underway since 2021, focusing on accelerating on-farm conservation efforts for dairy farmers in the eastern region.

The $2 million commitment comprises $1 million from the EPA and a matching $1 million from Hershey. These funds will be used to implement agricultural conservation practices on Land O'Lakes member dairy farms. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) will administer the portion of the funds provided by the EPA to the Alliance.

Dairy farming is integral to the local economy and a source of local, wholesome food. These funds and expertise provided to farmers aim to improve water quality, reduce environmental impacts, enhance soil health, and increase overall farm efficiency.

Leigh Horner, Chief Sustainability Officer at The Hershey Company, emphasized the importance of supporting initiatives like Sustainable Dairy PA, which contribute to clean water and conservation efforts while protecting Chesapeake Bay.

Adam Ortiz, EPA Regional Administrator, highlighted the broader significance of these funds, investing not only in the environment but also in the long-term viability of Pennsylvania farmers.

Land O'Lakes, a key partner in this effort, has taken a leadership position in on-farm sustainability through initiatives like Sustainable Dairy PA, which incentivizes voluntary practice changes to benefit the planet and farmer profitability.

Jenna Mitchell Beckett, Agriculture Program Director at the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, praised this collaborative approach as revolutionary, envisioning it as a model for addressing environmental challenges in the future.