DFA's Industry Update

Thursday, December 27, 2007
Contributed by: Alan Rhodes

Dairy Farmers of America hosted an industry update in Clovis, New Mexico on November 27, 2007. Most of the attendees were members of DFA's Southwest Area Council. DFA invited several friends of and advisors to the dairy industry.

DFA's president, Rick Smith, spoke openly about the cooperative's plans and issues. He focused on transparency, sustainability and food miles. After listening to all of the speakers, I believe that it's likely that sustainability has not yet been fully defined. Dr. Lowell Catlett noted that sustainability is an emotional term.

Mr. Smith's slides also confirmed the growing number of large dairies. Mr. Smith was quick to note that DFA values the diversity created by the 800 DFA members that milk 80 cows.

Lowell Catlett was the final speaker. It was my first time to learn from Dr. Catlett. Based on the comments made by participants, it's clear that Dr. Catlett is a friend to the group and a welcomed advisor.

Dr. Catlett confirmed that we are part of a consumer-driven world. He confirmed that, because our basic needs are filled and because many are past a stage of love and acceptance, most are at a stage of self-actualization. Dr. Catlett referred to this as dream space and noted that, in dream space, "you'll complain about anything."

Dr. Catlett discussed the realities of a consumer-driven world. He noted that one in ten United States fathers is fifty years old; he noted the changing numbers of households with pets.

My thanks to Wayne Palla and Dairy Farmers of America for including me in the industry update.

All the best.

This column is published for informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice and is not intended to create an attorney client relationship. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the author's law firm or its individual partners.