By Emma Palumbo, GMFTS Intern
Vermont’s dairy industry, once a cornerstone of the state’s agricultural heritage, has seen a sharp decline since its peak. In 1950, there were about 11,000 dairy farms in operation throughout the state (Seven Days, 2024). In 2020, that number had diminished to only 636. A constant oversupply of milk in the United States has drastically lowered return to farmers, forcing many to face a decision: get big or get out. Between 2012 and 2022, there was a 44% decrease in the number of Vermont small farms. In that same time-span, the number of cows on farms increased by nearly 60%. For a small dairy farm, competing with the efficiency of 1,000 cow dairies is no longer a profitable venture. Now, more than ever, supporting our local dairies is instrumental to preserve Vermont’s rich agricultural and tourism traditions. In this article, I list five ways you can help support local Vermont dairy farms:
Visit Local Dairy Farms
Even if a farm doesn’t offer direct purchase on-farm, you can still engage in tours and other events that help support their operations. Here is a list of some local dairy farms supported through Green Mountain Farm Direct’s program:
Butterworks Dairy
Barn First Creamery
Sweet Rowen Farmstead
Bridport Creamery
Blue Ledge Farm
Creek Valley Farm
Larson Farm and Creamery
Strafford Organic Creamery
Buy Locally-Sourced Dairy
Many small retailers around Vermont source their dairy products locally. By purchasing dairy products at these stores, you can directly support local farmers. Green Mountain Farm Direct helps to connect local farms to institutions that want to supply local products. To view a list of Farm Direct customers, visit greenmountainfarmdirect.org.
Check the Plant Number
Every dairy product is accessorized with a plant number on its label, which indicates its production origin. To check if you are buying from a local source, search the plant number or use websites like Whereismymilkfrom.com to trace where your dairy products come from.
Buy Cabot Products
If you’re from New England, you’ve probably heard of Cabot products before. Cabot Creamery boasts a cooperative of farm families who receive back 100% of the proceeds from sales. Buying Cabot helps to support local farmers, give back to communities, and support sustainable practices that steward the land for future generations.
Spread the Word and Advocate!
Encourage your local grocers and restaurants to source their dairy products locally. Businesses reply to consumer demand, so your advocacy can directly drive support for Vermont’s dairy farms. Urge your friends and family to make intentional decisions about who they buy their groceries from.
