The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), established in 1916 and based in Arlington, VA, develops and carries out policies that advance the well-being of dairy producers and the cooperatives they own. The members of NMPF’s 30 cooperatives produce the majority of the U.S. milk supply, making NMPF the voice of more than 32,000 dairy producers on Capitol Hill and with government agencies.

NMPF provides a forum through which dairy farmers and their cooperatives formulate policy on national issues that affect milk production and marketing. NMPF’s contribution to this policy is aimed at improving the economic interests of dairy farmers, thus assuring the nation’s consumers an adequate supply of pure, wholesome, and nutritious milk and dairy products.

The policies of NMPF are determined by its members from across the nation. Therefore, the policy positions expressed by NMPF are the only nationwide expression of dairy farmers and their cooperatives on national public policy.

2012 YC Council in Orlando

National Milk Producers Federation members and staff organized the National Young Cooperator (YC) Program in 1950. The purpose of the YC program was, and still is, to educate and build leadership ability in young dairy farmers. In order to develop this leadership, YCs must first gain a better understanding of the needs and problems facing milk marketing cooperatives. The result is educated, articulate young people who will provide the future direction for the dairy industry.

NMPF member cooperatives are responsible for selecting the YCs who will serve as their representatives on the YC Advisory Council. Each cooperative has its own way of choosing YCs for the council, just like they do for YCs who participate in the national YC program. Members of the council provide the leadership behind NMPF’s YC program. At the national level, they have three principle duties:

1. Attend a planning meeting the summer after the council’s election to provide views on YC programming material for the upcoming NMPF Annual Meeting.
2. Develop and oversee the YC program at the next NMPF Annual Meeting. This includes conducting registration, chairing sessions, introducing speakers, and other duties as required.
3. Execute assignments as requested by the NMPF YC program coordinator
   

   Our conclusion as the 2012 YC Chaircouple

   We enjoyed all the opportunities that were offered to us as National YC Chaircouple. We have met some incredible people who work on behalf of dairy farmers every day.  From the Farm Bill, USFRA, or drought relief, there is someone at NMPF who is working very hard to find the best resolution for the dairy farmer.  Thank you NMPF for this amazing opportunity, we enjoyed every moment!!