THe MMDC is evolving, as we learn more about what services the dairy producers and processors in Maine need.

One development we had not anticipated was the need for additional assistance for Maine's two remaining dairy Inspectors. While traditionally it has been their task to follow up with initial inquiries about setting up and licensing a dairy operation, Jim and Audrey have far more to do in the regulatory and compliance areas than they have time for.  Since the job of collecting and transporting samples was handed over to another department this summer, the load has eased slightly, but they still have a huge load, and cannot always get back to interexted individuals in a timely manner.

Enter a new phase of the MMDC program. I have for the last several months been receiving numerous referrals from the Dept. of Agriculture to farmers with an interest, at various levels, in beginning dairy production and/or licensing of a new dairy.  The time I spend with these new folks, giving them information, suggestions and advice, has been of great value to the department, and I hope the trend continues in the future.

But the reality is that while the number of small producers (farms) and processors (cheese makers) is expanding, the dairy section of the Dept. of Ag. is shrinking, both in human terms and budget amounts.  This trend, if it continues, sets us up for a higher risk of an undetected food-born illness issue and effects the long-term viability of the entire industry.  It's a troubling trend that warrents careful consideration.

Please see the "contacts" page for the latest MMDC newsletter!  (#3 is now up!)