The biggest change is cow numbers and the number of herds have decreased while overall production has risen dramatically. Ten years ago, it was 12,900 lbs. It s not necessarily confinement. We re still seeing smaller herds, such as with intensive grazing. It boils down to lifestyle.
Small herds have viable options.
They have different marketing avenues. They still have access to markets. Milk trucks and dairy supply people are still in the area. Some of the large co-ops are attracting markets, which helps small herds. There are options for any size herd, depending on your goals and what you like to do.