Beginning Dairy Farmer and Processor Workbook Published Online

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The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy (ALBC) has published an online workbook for beginning dairy farmers and processors. Last year, ALBC conducted a two-day intensive Dairy Processing 101 workshop at its Annual Conference. The workshop covered many aspects of setting up a dairy processing business including selecting breeds for dairying, business planning, developing products, legalities, marketing, and more. The workshop was very well-received by all who attended. As a result of this positive feedback, ALBC wanted to provide access to this valuable information to anyone interested in getting involved with dairy processing.

The workbook used for the course is now available online in a self-guided format. Users can walk through the process of setting up a dairy processing business from the planning stages to the implementation of all the small details. While the online workbook does not provide the same interactivity as the hands-on workshop, it provides a framework for beginning to think about a dairy farming or processing venture. ALBC’s goal is to help farmers find niche outlets for their rare breeds and rare breed products. As the market for rare breed dairy products grows, new farmers interested in these operations must be wise and informed to create financial success and to serve conservation.

View the workbook on the ALBC website at https://albc-usa.org/dairy/index.html. It is is also a great tool for those simply interested in starting a farm or farming business. The templates for business planning apply to any new farming venture that you may be interested in starting!

The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy (ALBC) is a clearinghouse for information on livestock and genetic diversity. These breeds are threatened because agriculture has changed. Modern food production now favors the use of a few highly specialized breeds selected for maximum output in a controlled environment. Many traditional livestock breeds have lost popularity and are threatened with extinction. These traditional breeds are an essential part of the American agricultural inheritance. Not only do they evoke our past, they are also an important resource for our future. ALBC was founded in 1977, and is the only organization in the U.S. working to conserve rare breeds and genetic diversity in livestock.