letter-to-editorTo the Editor:

Recently Jackie Schmidts made comments regarding one of my editorials.

First:  The Federal Order Systems were created because back in the 1930s dairy farmers were victimized by the prices that milk processors were paying for milk.

The United States created the Federal Milk Marketing Orders to stabilize marketing conditions and to mandate that milk handlers pay dairy farmers a fair price for their milk.

Second-The Federal Orders do not cost taxpayers any money. The orders are maintained by the buyers of milk whether they are milk co-ops or private handlers.

Third-Yes, the Federal Orders do require a minimum price to be paid to dairy farmers. However, the Federal Orders do not prevent dairy cooperatives or dairy farmers from negotiating a premium price for their milk above the Federal minimum price.

We have successfully negotiated premiums of $1.50 per cwt. (hundred-weight) up to $2 per cwt. above the minimum price. Jackie’s suggestions to get rid of the Federal Orders only plays into the policies of the International Food Association (which they would enjoy) and could force dairy farmers back into the 1930s.

However, we do need a new pricing formula which would consider our dairy farmers’ cost of production. In addition, we need a milk supply management program to maintain a balance of the milk supply for the consumer. Neither of these programs would cost the taxpayer any funds. Jackie, how about printing your address, plus your phone number, and I would be happy to communicate more with you.

Sincerely, Arden Tewksbury, Manager, Pro-Ag

By martha

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