The head of Dairy Farmers of America says the USDA directive limiting use of checkoff funds for some climate and sustainability activities will not derail ongoing industry efforts.
Dennis Rodenbaugh, DFA’s chief executive, said producers still need clear ways to quantify their environmental impact. He added that capturing the value of reduced greenhouse gas emissions through carbon credits can support farm income. According to Rodenbaugh, he did not see anything in the recent communication from the department that would prevent that kind of work.
Rodenbaugh, who also chairs the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, said environmental governance frameworks have helped maintain the identity of dairy milk as plant-based alternatives enter the market.
Speaking at the Ag Outlook Forum hosted by the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City and Agri-Pulse, Rodenbaugh said he is not alarmed by the USDA directive. He noted there are multiple avenues, beyond checkoff-funded programs, for sustainability initiatives in the dairy sector to continue.
USDA directive and dairy sustainability
Rodenbaugh emphasized that measuring outcomes, validating emission reductions, and responsibly marketing those results remain priorities for dairy producers. He said these efforts can proceed through channels that align with the department’s guidance while still supporting farmers’ bottom lines.