Dairy Industry Looks to Next Generation

Dairy Industry Looks to the Next Generation

I’m KayDee Gilkey with the Northwest Farm and Ranch Report.

An influx of younger dairy farmers in Oregon bodes well for the state's economy and environment.

While the average age of farmers in general is going up nationwide, there is at least one sector that appears to be bucking the trend as Jim Krahn of the Oregon Dairy Farmers shares: 

Krahn: "Well, here in Oregon, I believe that there is a much larger percentage of young people getting into the dairy industry than we see other places."

While there are no current statistics available, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence to suggest that Oregon's dairy demographics are changing.

Krahn: "I think they realize that dairy farming today is not just milking cows. It's really a well-rounded approach. Part of that would be stewardship, part of that would be care of the animals, and part of that would be interacting with the public."

Krahn says that the next generation is well educated, progressive, and responsible. Many learned those traits from their parents and are poised to take it to the next level. 

Krahn: "Well, I think from the attitude and interest from the younger generation, that's a huge positive thing. We just have to make sure we do all we can so that they can financially exist within this setting."

Krahn says the new wave of younger dairy operators bodes well for the future of the industry in Oregon.

Krahn: “These young people are concerned, obviously, about the product they are making, the way their animals are handled, and obviously the environmental stewardship piece, obviously, too.”

I’m KayDee Gilkey with the Northwest Farm and Ranch Report on the Northwest Ag Information Network.