New dairy Co-ops empower small PA farmers

By Blake Jackson

Two new dairy marketing cooperatives in southeastern Pennsylvania are giving small farmers a much-needed voice in a consolidating industry.

Founded in 2019 and 2022 respectively, Pioneer Milk Producers Cooperative and Harmony Milk Producers Cooperative offer farmers an alternative to larger, impersonal cooperatives.

These small, family-owned farms, averaging around 50 cows per herd, often faced challenges like being dropped by bigger co-ops seeking larger producers. The new cooperatives prioritize supporting these smaller farms and ensuring fair pricing.

Both cooperatives prioritize transparency and giving farmers more control over their milk's journey. Harmony, for example, focuses on marketing milk directly to processors within a two-hour radius, fostering relationships with regional businesses.

Religious beliefs also play a role. Some members come from Plain Sects who prefer Sunday pickup, a service not offered by larger cooperatives.

While acknowledging they're still learning the ropes of milk marketing, organizers believe the cooperatives offer a crucial benefit: Choice.

"We exist to give farmers options," said a Harmony board member. Farmers can potentially receive competitive prices while maintaining control over processing and even selling their own branded milk if feasible.

The future looks promising for these small cooperatives. Harmony, for example, has grown to 43 members despite its recent formation, demonstrating the strong demand for an alternative marketing approach.

These cooperatives offer a glimpse of hope for small dairy farmers in Pennsylvania, providing a platform for them to thrive in a changing industry.

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