U.S. dairy farmers are entering a period of growth supported by major investments and sustained consumer demand, even as the sector continues to navigate labour shortages, policy uncertainty and shifting trade conditions. Those were the key messages from industry leaders at the National Milk Producers Federation’s (NMPF) annual meeting, held this week in Arlington, Va., alongside the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board and the United Dairy Industry Association.
NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud told producers and cooperative leaders that the industry is positioned for expansion, pointing to billions of dollars in new processing capacity under construction across the United States.
“I love where we are in this industry right now, today, folks,” Doud said, noting $11 billion in new dairy-plant investment currently underway nationwide. “Yes, there’s going to be uncertainty. My goodness, there’s uncertainty. But we’re in expansion mode. And I love it.”
Doud emphasized that, despite economic headwinds and regulatory pressures, dairy continues to benefit from strong nutritional recognition and a loyal consumer base. He cited the sector’s recent momentum as evidence that the groundwork laid over the past several years is paying off.
Outgoing NMPF Chairman Randy Mooney echoed those remarks, using his final address after 17 years on the board to reflect on efforts to improve stability and strengthen the collective voice of America’s dairy farmers.
“We’ve built a stronger foundation for dairy farmers across the country by ensuring that each and every day, farmers, no matter the size of their operation are where they call home, have the tools, the support, and the representation they need to succeed on their operation for generations to come,” Mooney said. “We’ve moved the industry forward on major policy fronts, and together, we’ve made collective voice stronger in Washington.”
Mooney’s departure marks a leadership transition for NMPF. The board selected Brian Rexing, an Indiana dairy farmer and member of the Dairy Farmers of America cooperative, as the federation’s next chairman. Rexing will guide NMPF during a period of evolving market demands, heightened environmental expectations and continued scrutiny of agricultural labour systems.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins addressed the gathering on Tuesday, adding federal perspective to discussions around farm competitiveness, milk pricing and long-term workforce solutions. Her remarks reinforced ongoing collaboration between government and producers as the sector adapts to global market and policy pressures.
The meeting’s general session featured a panel with Doud, Dairy Management Inc. CEO Barb O’Brien and U.S. Dairy Export Council President Krysta Harden, who discussed the state of the industry and emerging opportunities. Another session focused on new revenue streams for farmers, with insights from Katie Cook of Elanco Animal Health, Mark Purdy of Meristem, and Joel Ysselstein of Meadowvale Dairy.
Across its four-day run from Nov. 9–12, the event also included sessions on labour challenges—one of the most persistent issues facing dairy producers across North America—as well as trends shaping dairy’s future, including the influence of the MAHA (Milk, Alternative, Health, and Affordability) movement on consumer preference and the growing role of artificial intelligence in farm operations.
The annual meeting was also held alongside NMPF’s Young Cooperators program, which supports the development of the next generation of dairy leaders. The organization’s annual cheese and dairy product competition added a celebratory element to the event, recognizing excellence and innovation in dairy craftsmanship. Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery won the top prize for its Habanero Ghost Jack cheese, while Lanco Pennland earned the Reserve Chairman’s Award for its Sweet Cheddar.
The strong turnout and broad agenda reflected an industry that, despite volatility, sees potential for sustained growth. Attendees emphasized the importance of investment, workforce development and adaptive policy to ensure that dairy remains competitive in domestic and global markets.
As Doud noted, the industry’s trajectory remains positive even with uncertainty on the horizon. With billions in processing projects underway, expanded export opportunities and a renewed focus on innovation, dairy leaders say they are preparing for continued expansion while addressing the realities of a complex economic and regulatory environment.
The meeting’s discussions and leadership transitions signal that U.S. dairy remains focused on long-term resilience—leveraging its recent momentum while working to strengthen the systems required to support the next generation of producers.
