Organic dairy farmers: Getting a fair milk price is top challenge

A University of New Hampshire survey of organic dairy farmers shows that while the consumer will pay a higher price for their milk, the farmers aren't getting back much of a profit.

Working with the Northeast Organic Dairy Producers Alliance, UNH researchers surveyed 183 northeastern organic dairy farms. They found that 85 percent ranked a steady, fair milk price as their top challenge.

The USDA says even though the market price for organic milk has been stable in recent years, the costs of organic mixed grain feed for the cows have increased substantially.

UNH researchers believe this decline in profit margins for organic dairy farmers is most likely the reason why they perceive the price they receive for their milk as not fair.