U.S. Production, Herd Continues to Grow

An article by Audrey Schmitz on Progressive Dairy

U.S. milk production rose about 2.7% compared to the same month last year, according to the USDA’s preliminary April Milk Production report, released May 22.

Reviewing the USDA preliminary estimates for April 2026 compared to April 2025:

• U.S. milk production: 19.96 billion pounds, up 2.7%

• U.S. cow numbers: 9.645 million, up 190,000 head

• U.S. average milk per cow: 2,069 pounds, up 14 pounds

• 24-state milk production: 19.176 billion pounds, up 2.8%

• 24-state cow numbers: 9.21 million, up 193,000 head

• 24-state average milk per cow: 2,082 pounds, up 13 pounds

For the full article click here