As June rolls in with its long days and golden light, we pause to celebrate something near and dear to many rural communities—June Dairy Month. It’s a time to honor the hardworking dairy farmers who rise before the sun, the cows that keep the rhythm of rural life steady, and the simple joys that dairy brings to our tables.

June Dairy Month started back in 1937 as a way to promote milk during the warm summer months. Since then, it has grown into a heartfelt tribute to the people, animals, and traditions that keep the dairy industry going strong.

From the gentle hum of the milking parlor to the comforting clink of glass milk bottles or the churn of a vintage ice cream maker—dairy has always been more than a product. It’s a way of life.

If you've ever visited a dairy farm, you know that it runs on grit, patience, and a deep love for animals. Generations work side by side, passing down not only farming techniques but life lessons learned in the barn and out in the pasture. There’s pride in a clean milk line, in healthy calves, and in knowing the food you produce nourishes families near and far.

It’s a rhythm that never really stops. And yet, there’s beauty in that routine—the quiet moments shared over a coffee before the next milking shift, or the look of wonder on a child’s face when they feed a bottle calf for the first time.

This month, let’s take a moment to slow down and savor the simple joys dairy brings:

• A cold glass of milk after a long day.

• A scoop of homemade ice cream on the porch swing.

• A slice of cheese paired with summer sausage and a view of the sunset.

It’s easy to overlook the everyday comforts, but in June, we celebrate them.

We’re especially proud to support locally made cheese and dairy products—a true taste of our heritage and the hard work of farmers in our communities. Whether it’s attending a dairy breakfast, visiting a creamery, or simply choosing local at the grocery store, every small act helps keep family farms thriving.

Thank You, Dairy Farmers

To all the dairy farmers—thank you. For the early mornings, the muddy boots, the care you show your animals, and the nourishing food you provide. Your efforts are seen, appreciated, and celebrated.

Here’s to the hands that feed us, the cows that provide, and the community that supports it all.
Happy June Dairy Month!