U.S. milk production fell slightly in January. According to the USDA, production in the top 24 states was 18.3 billion pounds, down nine tenths of a percent from the previous year, due to fewer cows (8.873 million head) and lower average production (2,062 pounds per cow).
California ranked first in production and number of cows, followed by Wisconsin and Idaho, while Michigan led the way in average production.
According to the USDA, milk production in 2023 totaled 226.364 billion pounds, slightly less than in 2022, with a decrease in dairy cows canceling out an increase in the average.
The USDA’s next annual milk production projection is due March 8th.
