Here’s what USDA/AMS had to say:
Midwest:
In the Central region, milk output is strong. Some plant managers say a snowstorm in the upper Midwest negatively impacted transportation and limited their ability to move milk to processing facilities early this week. Some plants had down time at the start of the week, due to the snow, and contributed to lighter demand for all Classes of milk. Manufacturers were able to resume production by mid-week, and plant managers are running busy schedules until the weekend. Spot trades of Class III milk were lighter this week and several cheesemakers say they were offered additional spot volumes this week, but they were unable to take in these loads due to downtime and delays caused by the snowstorm. Reported prices for Class III milk range from $3-under to flat.
EAST
In the East region, milk volumes remain seasonally strong. The Northern states experienced a winter storm at the beginning of the week that had some mild disruptions to transportation. Plants were able to resume normal operations by Tuesday. Cream levels remain high and contacts say volumes of cream are higher than this time last year. Bottling operations are steady to lighter this week. Some Southeast educational institutions are on spring break, so demand is lighter. Class II demand is stronger. Many facilities are taking in spot loads of milk and cream to meet demand for ice cream mixes and heavy whipping cream as suppliers build their inventories for the spring holiday and upcoming summer demand. Class III demand is steady. Cheese makers are using contractual loads of milk with little need for spot milk. Class IV demand is strong. Nonfat dry milk demand remains strong, and spot prices continue to rise, encouraging manufacturers to keep dryers running.
WEST
In the West region, some contacts indicate spring flush is beginning in some states. California milk production is strong with year over year growth from March 2025. California is heavy on milk with excess milk going to condensing plants. New Mexico and Arizona report steady milk production. Washington is experiencing a drop in milk volumes. Recent inclement weather has negatively affected cow comfort. Idaho milk supplies are tightening but contacts indicate the flush is coming soon. Colorado production is steady. Class I production is steady with no significant changes in demand. Class II demand is strengthening in the region. Class III demand is steady. Spot volumes of milk and condensed skim are available for Class III use. Class IV demand is strong. Dryers are prioritizing nonfat dry milk due to the increased demand.
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