Co-op Food Stores contributed $39,995 to help support New England dairy farms! The contribution represents 15 cents for every gallon of milk sold at the Co-op's four locations – Hanover, NH, Lebanon, NH, and White River Junction, VT – since January 2010.

Co-op Food Stores is the first retailer to contribute a portion of milk sales directly to Keep Local Farms. The stores continue to support the program through in-store promotions and educational signage at the register and in the dairy aisle.

Learn more on our Partner's Page

"Treat the cows with patience and respect because they pay for everything," reads a sign posted at Barstow's Longview Farm in Hadley, MA. It's a mantra that the family lives by.

The farm has been in David Barstow's family since 1806, and has been a dairy farm since 1920. David takes great pride in the farm that his family built and cares for 225 cows daily.

We recently talked with David, and learned about the importance of having small farms and the importance of producing food locally.

Watch David's video to learn more

Dairy farmers pay special attention to the diets and living conditions of their animals. Just as some people consult dietitians to help them eat right, dairy farmers consult with dairy nutritionists to design a diet for their cows that is well balanced.

Dairy nutritionists recommend scientifically formulated and balanced diets that consist of hay, grains, protein sources and other vitamins and minerals. Good food is the first step toward good milk.

Learn more about how farmers
care for their animals