FARM Wants Feedback On Animal Care, Workforce Development

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM Program, is asking dairy producers and other industry stakeholders to weigh in on proposed updates to its Animal Care and Workforce Development standards.

The public comment period is now open and runs through October 2nd.

FARM leaders say producer input is essential to making sure the standards remain practical while demonstrating the dairy industry's commitment to animal care and high-quality dairy products.  Proposed changes include updated guidance for transporting livestock, calf nutrition, animal observations and continuing education, along with revisions to workforce safety and evaluation standards.

“Farmer involvement is critical to ensuring program standards are practical and achievable,” said James “Cricket” Jacquier, an Agri-Mark member-farmer and chairman of the FARM Animal Care Task Force. “Farmers who participate in the open comment period can provide feedback on practices and protocols that help promote U.S. dairy industry efforts in demonstrating our commitment to high-quality dairy products.” 

Comments will help shape recommendations before the National Milk Producers Federation considers final approval next spring.

Click Here to have your thoughts known.  You can also learn more by visiting the FARM Program Website.

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