Dr. Frank Mitloehner, University of California-Davis animal science professor and air quality expert, explained the relationship between animal agriculture and climate change at the Pennsylvania Dairy Summit last week. All agriculture contributes nine percent of greenhouse gases, livestock contributes 3.9 percent, and dairy is just two percent. Fluid milk innovation and changing consumer perspectives were the other hot topics at the summit where nearly 400 dairy farmers and industry representatives gathered to hear Fair Oaks Farms creative director Sue McCloskey. Both keynote speakers were sponsored by ADA North East.

“The speakers at this year’s summit brought knowledge and experience that sparked innovation in every area of the dairy industry. This helps farmers and industry professionals gain confidence to pursue new pathways in their operations. It’s important for farmers and industry to gather together to share thoughts and ideas that drive passion and progress.â€_x009d_ — Caroline Zimmerman (pictured right)

ADA North East brought additional support to the Dairy Summit by providing Domino’s pizza for the Young Professionals Reception for producers and professionals ages 17-25, that featured a panel discussion of young dairy farmers and industry representatives. ADA North East staff served as mentors for college students interested in dairy careers, and we supported a reception for Dairy Girl Network, the national organization focused on women involved in the industry.

ADA North East also participated in the Dairy Innovation Forum at the summit, geared toward dairy processors, highlighting the relevance of our retail program and other checkoff initiatives that support that segment of the industry. Additionally, DMI’s Bill Graves presented on National Dairy Council’s research that is helping develop new and improve existing dairy products.

The annual event is hosted by the Center for Dairy Excellence and the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania with ADA North East staff serving on the planning committee.