WHEREAS, the Minnesota Dairy Initiative (MDI) has been the primary focus of the Dairy Development and Profitability Enhancement programs (DDPEP); and

                WHEREAS, MDI has focused on the delivery of technical and financial services to Minnesota dairy farms; and

                WHEREAS, the public investment in MDI helps to retain existing farms and support their ability to modernize and expand; and

WHEREAS, DDPEP has consistently provided at least a 5 to 1 (or more) return on the state’s investment thereby adding significant value to the states three billion dollar dairy industry while serving the producers of the state.

WHEREAS, greater flexibility with respect to the administration of state Dairy Development and Profitability Enhancement Program would authorize the use of state funds for dairy training and research programs.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT:

RESOLVED, that the Minnesota Milk Producers Association supports the continuation and expansion of funding for the Dairy Development and Profitability Enhancement program.

FUTHER RESOLVED, Minnesota Milk Producers Association also supports maintaining or increasing funding for the on-farm component of the program (dairy profitability teams) to continue to serve the individual needs of program participants by addressing management issues which prevent participants from achieving their individual goals.

                FURTHER RESOLVED, that the program be modified or expanded to provide greater flexibility to  allow funds to be used to continue MDI activities and/or fund dairy training and research activities.