Beyond milk: Organic Valley’s journey to fight for family farms and foster sustainability

Supporting small family farms is essential. Now more than ever, consumers want to know where their food comes from. According to a poll by The Food Institute, consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable and responsibly sourced food, including organic dairy products.

But the stark reality is that family farms are being squeezed out of business at an alarming rate. According to the U.S. Census of Agriculture, the United States has lost 142,000 family farms between 2017 and 2022. If the trend continues at this rate, family farms will likely not exist by 2060. 

Family farms are the epitome of the pioneering spirit that drives Organic Valley. Once they are gone, they are gone forever. Without them, rural communities would face a decline, with main streets becoming deserted, schools deteriorating and the availability of wholesome, nutritious food diminishing.

Jeff Frank, the CEO of Organic Valley, shares the pioneering approach the company is taking to preserve family farms and advance sustainability in the dairy and broader food industry.

How many family farms are part of the Organic Valley cooperative?

Our cooperative is made up of more than 1,600 family farms, and we plan to welcome over 100 new farms this year.

What makes Organic Valley unique from other cooperatives?

Organic Valley was conceived in 1988 in response to a crisis that imperiled the existence of organic family farms. Since then, our resolve to protect these vital agricultural mainstays has never wavered. Our commitment is deeply rooted in supporting the farmers who tend the land and the earth that nourishes us all. Through sustainable, small-scale farming practices, we honor the tradition of organic agriculture while nurturing the relationship between the land and those who care for it. Our brand media campaign, “Protecting Where Your Food Comes From,” is a testament to this, serving as a call to action to safeguard these small family farms, which are indispensable to the health of our communities and the environment.

Our approach to farming clearly reflects our dedication to the planet and its stewards. We maintain herds that average fewer than 80 cows on our farms, ensuring that our practices are sustainable and conducive to animal welfare. This commitment to small-scale farming supports the farmers and fosters a more mindful and responsible land stewardship.

In the dairy industry, which is often criticized for its environmental impact, Organic Valley stands out for its eco-friendly practices. Our farmers are at the forefront of sustainable agriculture, consistently demonstrating a reduced carbon footprint compared to conventional farming methods.

A study we conducted three years ago revealed that the net farm emissions of our cooperative farmers were, on average, 15% lower than those of other non-member organic dairy farms and 24% lower than the national dairy farm average. This data underscores our cooperative’s leadership in sustainability and our ongoing commitment to making a real difference for the future of farming and the planet.

What else can dairy farms do to reduce their carbon footprint?

There is potential for dairy farms to significantly impact the fight against climate change through a holistic approach that goes beyond individual practices. By integrating sustainable methods into their daily operations, farms can create a synergistic effect that benefits the environment. This includes managing pastures in a way that enhances their ability to sequester carbon, thereby reducing the farm’s overall carbon footprint. This practice can also support pollinators as an added benefit. Manure management is also crucial, as innovative techniques like composting and anaerobic digestion can substantially decrease methane emissions.

The transition to renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, is another key factor in reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Optimizing feeding practices can lead to healthier cows as well and reduce methane production, a potent greenhouse gas. Implementing energy-efficient technologies in milking and cooling systems can further reduce electricity consumption.

Environmental stewardship programs that promote biodiversity, soil health and water conservation are also essential. These programs support the ecosystem services that farms rely on and contribute to the overall resilience of the agricultural landscape.

Organic Valley is at the forefront of these efforts, incentivizing member farms to adopt carbon reduction and removal projects through their carbon insetting program. This brings low-carbon dairy products to the market and rewards farmers for their commitment to sustainability. Initiatives like solar power installation and agroforestry practices are just a few examples of how Organic Valley farmers reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lead the way toward a more sustainable future for the dairy industry.

Why is it so important to protect family farms?

The essence of safeguarding family farms lies not only in producing high-quality, nutrient-rich food but also in nurturing our communities and the longevity of our food systems. At Organic Valley, we understand that the exceptional food quality from small, organic family farms stems from dedicated care for the land, animals and farmers.

In an era when the origins of our food are often uncertain, supporting initiatives like Organic Valley’s commitment to family farms is a proactive measure to ensure a resilient future. This commitment extends beyond preserving tradition; it’s about fostering a food system that values environmental stewardship and ethical practices to provide food security now and in the future.

Our dedication to pioneering sustainable solutions is evident not only on our farms but also within our workplace, reflecting a comprehensive approach to food production that benefits everyone involved. When consumers choose sustainably sourced products, they’re not just making a purchase; they’re supporting the resilience of rural communities and endorsing a food system that prioritizes the health of our planet and its people. Organic Valley’s unwavering commitment to this mission positions us as a leader in the sustainable agriculture movement as we continue to innovate and inspire the industry toward a more sustainable future.

To learn more about how Organic Valley is paving the way for a more sustainable tomorrow visit https://ethicallysourced.organicvalley.coop.