It's definitely interesting times in the dairy industry these days.  Milk production remains flat.  The overall cow herd number is down.  Many dairies are pivoted toward beef production with their offspring versus replacement heifers.  Is this a time for some dairies to consider growth?

During World Dairy Expo, Pam Jahnke asked that question of two dairy lending specialists with Compeer Financial.  Growth in dairy today looks very different then it did just a decade ago.  Now operations are looking at acquiring existing dairies that might be ready to retire or sell.  The expense of constructing a new dairy, and the permitting process is enormous - so being creative on expansion is key.

Jeff Retzer and Brad Herkenhoff are engaged in these kinds of conversations and strategy planning sessions weekly.  What's their take on the current dairy terrain and where 2025 could take us?