When you think of Iowa, you typically think of corn production. Or hogs. Iowa may not be known for dairy production, but don't tell the cows that. Each and every one of them contributes substantially to the state's economy.
The economic impact of dairy was highlighted in the most recent Iowa State University and Extension E-Dairy News and Views newsletter. According to the 2012 Iowa State University Economic Review, one cow generates $23,445 in total economic output. Multiplied by the 204,000 cows being milked in Iowa, and you can begin to understand the economic benefits dairy production brings to the state.
Dollars are spent, of course, in traditional places such as veterinary clinics, nutrition services, milk haulers, farm employees and so on, but those dollars reach far beyond the agricultural community. They spill into transportation services, financial institutions, wholesale and retail trade businesses, restaurants, repair shops, equipment dealers and more. These businesses take local people to run them, and for every 100 dairy cows in Iowa, 10 jobs are created.
Iowa has 1,403 dairy farms, ranging from 10 to 7,500 cows. The state ranked 12th in the nation in milk production last year, yielding 4.6 billion pounds of milk.
This milk production supports a vibrant dairy processing industry as well. Iowa ranks 9th in fluid milk bottling, 8th in total dairy products processed, 7th in cheese production, 6th in cottage cheese and American cheese production, and 4th in ice cream production.
June Dairy Month will soon be over, but recognizing the efforts of the cows and people on our nation's dairy farms should never end. Cows in Iowa are working hard to contribute to the state's bottom line. No doubt, the cows in your state have a similar impact as well.
