Update 3:08 p.m.: This afternoon, Mr. Gunderson learned that two large farms in Brown County had to dump milk Wednesday morning. Those farms have over 700 dairy cows.
“In my 33 years of doing this…I would have never expected something like this.”
Those words from Manitowoc County UW-Extension Agent Scott Gunderson.
In an interview with SeehaferNews.com, Gunderson says COVID 19 has delivered a “severe blow” to local Ag producers, an industry that’s responsible for a “large chunk” of the County’s economy.
Gunderson told us that Manitowoc County is one of the top three producers of milk, grain and livestock each and every year in the state, which includes the selling of milk to restaurants-schools and the hospitality industry.
In addition, one-third of the state’s dairy products, mainly cheese, are sold in the foodservice trade. Gunderson says the COVID 19 pandemic has caused milk prices to drop to unprofitable levels this spring.
He explained that 2014 was the high point for milk prices, coming in at $25 per 100 pounds. “Put that in perspective,” he said. “The base price for May was expected to be below $14.”
This money is needed for, among other things, the upcoming planting season.
Gunderson addressed rumors that processing plants could close or cut production, forcing farmers to dump milk.
He said “Some farmers did receive letters, indicating ‘Here’s the situation. We may need to be in touch with you and talk about ways to reduce production.’ But so far, no farms I’m aware of have had to dump milk on their farms. Milk buyers are still purchasing the milk. Truck drivers are still picking it up.”
Another false rumor is that law enforcement is pulling over any “ag or farm industry-related” vehicles. Gunderson said that is not happening.
The Local ag expert says producers have been through a lot in the last five years adding “They are resilient and stick together through thick and thin. They’ll weather this storm as well.”
Social distancing has forced them to meet through various on-line entities.
A “free webinar” is scheduled for this Friday on “Growing and Feeding” alternative forages from 1 to 3 p.m.
For more information email Scott at ScottGunderson@co.manitowoc.wi.us.
