Communicating with your Community
With less than 2 percent of the U.S. population involved in farming today, the public has little opportunity to visit a dairy farm, let alone understand modern dairy farming practices. That’s why America’s dairy producers communicate the benefits of modern dairy farming to their neighbors and community members.
The checkoff provides many tools to help producers tell their stories, including these downloadable files:
How to give a successful presentation [PDF, 56k]
Every opportunity to talk with neighbors and community members is a chance to promote your farm and remind others of the importance of a strong dairy industry. Use these presentation tips to strengthen your public speaking skills.
Environment fact sheet [PDF, 136k]
Dairy producers work hard to protect the environment, and the public needs to understand this. These facts help you communicate the environmentally sound practices employed on dairy farms.
Animal care fact sheet [PDF, 148k]
Caring for dairy cows is a dairy producer’s number one concern. Show how dairy producers take good care of their animals by using these talking points.
Dairy food safety fact sheet [PDF, 148k]
The dairy industry takes food safety very seriously. Convey these key messages to consumers to help them understand that U.S. farmers produce only the safest and most wholesome dairy products.
Economic impact fact sheet [PDF, 124k]
The U.S. dairy industry is a vital contributor to economic development, both locally and nationally. Illustrate the importance of the dairy industry by using these key economic facts.
Organic milk fact sheet [PDF, 152k]
Consumers often ask the difference between organic and regular milk. Use this question-and-answer guide to answer their questions and help them understand that there is no difference between organic and regular milk.
Nutritional benefits fact sheet [PDF, 404k]
Dairy products pack a nutritional punch. This illustrated food chart compares the amount of nutrients found in three cups of milk to the amount of non-dairy food needed to reach the same nutrient level.
Dairy trivia [PDF, 52k]
To get the same amount of calcium provided by 8 ounces of milk, you would have to eat 2 1/4 cups of broccoli? Use these interesting dairy trivia facts to educate all age groups about the dairy industry.
Beyond the fence communication tips [PDF, 68k]
Sometimes all it takes is a friendly conversation to make a neighbor feel more favorable toward your dairy farm. Consider these communication tips the next time you’re dealing with on-farm issues with your neighbors and community leaders.