LATI Agri-Production - Dairy Option

Research shows that the current number of dairy operators in the Midwest has declined by fifty-four percent. Factors contributing to this decline include the amount of capital required to start a dairy, the shortage of trained employees, the difficulty of meeting government regulations, and the lack of current technology and knowledge to make the transition to modern dairy practices. Yet, the need for producers and milk production is growing at a much faster rate than what current dairies can supply.

In order to prosper in the dairy industry today, dairy operators will need to consider evolving into a larger scale operation. Unfortunately, one of the biggest obstacles facing many dairy farmers today is the lack of trained labor to help them with their expansion. The Agri-Production Dairy Option is designed to educate and train individuals for a career in the dairy industry.

When students complete the Agri-Production Dairy Option, they will be competent in the skills needed to be employed by or even manage a large state-of-the-art dairy operation. Students will be proficient in the areas of animal and dairy science and health and nutrition. They will be able to trouble-shoot problem areas in the dairy herd and learn about farm management and commodity marketing. Students will also complete two supervised occupational experiences utilizing the Midwest Dairy Institute near Milbank, SD. Whether students are returning to family-owned dairy operations or employed by large corporations, the skills they learn in the dairy option program will be rewarding and profitable.

If you are the type of individual who enjoys working outdoors, has a genuine respect for animals, and has the managerial skills necessary to own and/or operate a successful business, this may be the career for you.

With the demand for producing a higher quantity and quality of milk, the dairy operator must be able to make educated decisions about production, nutrition, and health. Most importantly, he or she must be able to keep accurate and consistent records on the dairy herd.