Assemblyman Tom O’Mara (R,C-Horseheads) today took part in Dairy Day at the state Capitol, where he was joined by New York dairy farmers.

“The dairy industry is a vital part of the New York and Southern Tier agricultural sector,” remarked O’Mara. “I will continue to work hard to ensure the state and the Southern Tier stay on top in dairy production.”

New York is the third-largest dairy producer in the nation, with milk accounting for half of all agricultural profits. The state’s dairy industry includes 7,200 dairy farmers whose cows produce 12.2 billion pounds of milk each year, as well as dairy processors and manufacturers who process a variety of dairy products.

“New York’s dairy farmers provide the state and nation with the finest dairy products,” said O’Mara. “Dairy Day is a time to celebrate the achievements of dairy farmers and provides a chance for the Assembly minority conference to show their support for legislation benefiting farmers and small businesses.”

New York’s dairy industry generates $1.84 billion from the sale of milk alone. That’s more than half the state’s total agricultural receipts. New York is the top producer of cottage cheese and ranks third in overall cheese production.

“Remember that June is National Dairy Month, so every time you wipe off a ‘milk mustache,’ remember the hardworking men and women who work night and day to provide New York and the nation with the finest dairy products a cow can offer.”