NOC Applauds Introduction of Organic Dairy Data Collection Act

The National Organic Coalition (NOC) strongly supports the newly reintroduced Organic Dairy Data Collection Act, a bipartisan bill led by Representatives Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Tony Wied (R-WI), and Nick Langworthy (R-NY). This legislation would direct USDA to collect and publish region-specific data on organic dairy cost-of-production, feed prices, and pay prices—critical information that farmers and policymakers need to respond to a volatile marketplace.

“Farmers are grappling with rising input costs, unstable markets, and inadequate pay prices—and they’re doing so in the absence of comprehensive, transparent data,”said Abby Youngblood, Executive Director of NOC. “This bill provides a clear, practical step to help stabilize the sector and guide future support. We’re grateful to Reps. Pingree, Wied, and Langworthy for leading this effort, and we’ll continue advocating for its swift passage.”

NOC has been working to build support for this bill, including during our March 2025 fly-in, where organic farmers and advocates shared their experiences directly with members of Congress. Without this data, USDA cannot effectively target aid or assess the economic realities facing organic dairies—a situation that’s contributing to farm closures and market instability.

As Rep. Pingree stated, “Without targeted action, we risk more farm closures, weakened regional food systems, and fewer organic choices for consumers.” The Organic Dairy Data Collection Act is a vital piece of the puzzle in ensuring the long-term viability of organic dairy and strengthening the broader organic sector.