The Pennsylvania State Grange recently testified in a focused hearing regarding the future of the over-order premium associated with fluid milk produced and sold within the state. Initiated by Sen. Elder Vogel and Sen. Judy Schwank, the hearing aimed to address whether the premium should be distributed to all dairy farms in Pennsylvania, considering the steady decline in fluid milk sales and the increasing consumption of processed dairy products like cheese and yogurt.
During the hearing, Pennsylvania State Grange Master Matt Espenshade emphasized the continued benefits of the premium to the state's dairy industry. He highlighted the crucial role it plays in supporting independent fluid milk bottlers and their local farms, serving as a key incentive for attracting and retaining suppliers. Espenshade, a seventh-generation dairy farmer from Lancaster County, expressed concerns about the potential impact on these operations if the premium were to be diluted or eliminated.
The Pennsylvania Milk Marketing Board has agreed to hold a hearing, as requested by the Pennsylvania State Grange, to extend the current over-order premium, which is set to expire on June 30. The Grange is seeking an extension of the current $1 per hundredweight level for the next six months and the hearing is scheduled for June 7 in Harrisburg.
While emphasizing the Grange's commitment to engaging in dairy policy discussions, Espenshade clarified that the over-order premium alone cannot solve the ongoing dairy crisis. He urged elected leaders in Harrisburg to explore alternative opportunities to benefit all dairy farms and their hardworking families. Until a replacement system can be developed, the Grange strongly believes that maintaining the premium is essential.
The hearing serves as a platform for discussing the distribution of premium funds and addressing the changing landscape of consumer dairy preferences. The Pennsylvania State Grange remains dedicated to participating in these discussions and encourages exploration of comprehensive solutions for the state's dairy industry.
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Dairy Cattle