#4 usually isn’t a number you think of when you think of being on top. However, the dairy industry is the fourth most important agricultural industry in Maryland today and is one of the most vital industries in the state. With just over 50,000 milking cows in Maryland, our state’s dairy farmers are producing over 990 million pounds of milk every single year. Although the number of cows and dairy farmers are continuously decreasing due to tough economic times, the annual milk production is increasing, proving the excellent efficiency of our dairy cattle in the Old Line State. So why are all these facts important to YOU?

Believe it or not, you play a huge role in every dairy farmer’s daily life. You, the consumer, keep the farmer’s job going. Without these efficient cows and diligent farmers, the shelves in the dairy section at your local grocery store would be bare. The same shelves that carry products which provide nine essential nutrients in every serving would be gone. The easiest way to prevent Osteoporosis would not be readily available. That’s why you, the consumer, should continue eating three dairy servings each day. Not only are you keeping the dairy farms in business, but you’re helping your well-being. The only place in the world you can find nine essential nutrients, including calcium and potassium, in a delicious form is in a glass of milk. Dairy products are not only tasty, but they strengthen your bones, improve your eyesight and play a role in maintaining your blood pressure. Be sure to consume three dairy servings every day to keep your body in tip-top shape!

Elizabeth Galbreath, Alternate Maryland Dairy Princess