Producer & Policy Organizations Category Guide

What Are Producer Organizations?

Producer organizations are farmer-led groups that advocate for dairy industry interests at local, state, and federal levels. They work on issues including milk pricing, environmental regulations, labor policy, trade agreements, and research funding. Membership gives farmers a collective voice in shaping policies that affect their operations.

Major National Organizations

National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF)

The largest dairy producer organization, representing cooperatives and their farmer-members. NMPF leads advocacy on federal milk marketing orders, international trade, and dairy policy.

International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA)

Represents dairy processors and manufacturers but works on issues affecting the entire supply chain, including food safety and trade policy.

American Dairy Coalition

Focuses on grassroots farmer advocacy and education on policy issues affecting family dairy farms.

State and Regional Organizations

State dairy associations and regional groups often address issues specific to their areas—environmental regulations, state milk pricing, local market development. Examples include Wisconsin Dairy Alliance, California Dairy Quality Assurance, and Northeast Dairy Producers Association.

Benefits of Membership

• Policy representation: Your interests represented in legislative and regulatory processes
• Information access: Updates on emerging issues and regulatory changes
• Networking: Connections with other producers facing similar challenges
• Industry unity: Collective action on issues no single farm can address alone
• Educational resources: Workshops, publications, and best practices

Current Policy Issues

Producer organizations actively work on:

• Federal Milk Marketing Order reform
• Immigration and labor policy
• Environmental regulations and sustainability
• Trade agreements and export markets
• Dairy Margin Coverage and safety net programs

Joining an Organization

Consider your priorities when choosing organizations:

• What issues matter most to your operation?
• Does your cooperative already provide policy advocacy?
• Are state-level or national issues more relevant to you?
• How much time can you invest in participation?

Cost Considerations

Membership dues vary widely from $100-500+ annually for individual memberships. Many cooperatives include NMPF membership in their fee structure. Consider dues as an investment in protecting your business interests.