The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is embarking on its quarterly Milk Production survey, a critical data collection effort that provides insights into the state of the U.S. dairy industry. Conducted every January, April, July, and October, this survey gathers information from approximately 4,500 milk producers across the country. The data collected includes the number of milk cows in the herd, the number of cows milked, total milk production on the first day of the month, milk consumed on the farm, and the amount fed to calves.
The information gathered through this survey is instrumental in measuring and reporting conditions and trends within the U.S. milk industry throughout the year. According to Travis Averill, NASS Livestock Branch Chief, the Milk Production reports are vital for the dairy industry, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions about milk marketing. By participating in the survey, milk producers contribute to the accuracy and timeliness of the data, which in turn supports sound business decisions across all sectors of the industry.
The implications of this data collection extend beyond the dairy industry. For investors, the Milk Production reports provide valuable insights into the health and trends of the dairy sector, which can influence investment decisions. Accurate and timely data allows investors to assess market conditions, identify opportunities, and manage risks effectively. The reports also help policymakers and industry analysts understand the broader economic impact of the dairy sector, which is a significant component of the U.S. agricultural economy.
NASS is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of survey respondents. By law, the agency is required to protect the privacy of all responses and publish data only in aggregate form. This ensures that no individual producer or operation can be identified, fostering a climate of trust and cooperation among survey participants.
The results of the Milk Production survey will be published on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, in the Milk Production report on the NASS website and in the agency’s searchable database, Quick Stats. For more information, interested parties can contact NASS at 888-424-7828. This data collection effort underscores the importance of accurate and reliable information in supporting the growth and sustainability of the U.S. dairy industry and the broader agricultural sector.