Opportunities in Grazing Dairy Farms: Assessing Future Options
DOWNLOADJuly 2, 2007 - David Conner, Martin C. Heller, Susan Cocciarelli, Mike Hamm
This whitepaper, developed by the C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems (now CRFS) at Michigan State University, examines proven alternative methods of dairy production as a means of supporting Michigan's diverse dairy industry as well as providing enhanced opportunities for rural economic development in the state. Despite being the largest single agricultural commodity in Michigan, the number of mid-sized dairy farms is declining rapidly. The research conducted for this whitepaper indicates that low-capital managed grazing dairy production can significantly benefit Michigan's small- and medium-sized farms, as well as the overall vitality of rural communities across the state.