Jim Costa: “Every year, California dairies produce over 17 billion pounds of milk products that provide families with affordable…”

“Every year, California dairies produce over 17 billion pounds of milk products that provide families with affordable, nutrient-rich products that we consume. California is the Nation's top milk-producing State, and much of the production takes place in the San Joaquin Valley, which I represent a part of. Many of these dairies in my district have been passed down from generation to generation, including the one that I grew up on in Kearney Park, near Fresno, California. Over the last few years, dairy producers have seen milk prices continue to drop and feed prices increase and even skyrocket. In the coming weeks, the Ag Committee is slated to begin consideration of the 2012 farm bill. It is my hope that we can find a way to bring more certainty in prices and prevent extreme market volatility to help our producers across the country stay afloat. As National Dairy Month comes to a close, I would like to commend our dairymen and -women for the work they do every day on the farm, 365 days a year, that allows families nationwide to enjoy the nutritious, cost-effective food that they are putting on our tables. ____________________”