Tuesday, June 12, 2012: Dairy Day
WHEREAS, Michigan is home to about 1,900 Grade A dairy farms and dairy farming is the top ranking segment of Michigan's agricultural industry, contributing nearly $6 billion to the state's economy each year; and,
WHEREAS, in 2011, dairy cows produced 8.5 billion pounds of milk, ranking Michigan as one of the top 10 states in the nation's milk production; and,
WHEREAS, dairy products, including milk, yogurt, cheese and whey protein, provide several options for consumers to meet dietary guidelines for healthy eating; and,
WHEREAS, nutrient-rich dairy products contain calcium, potassium, Vitamin D and other essential nutrients irreplaceable in the diet; and,
WHEREAS, on this day, we join with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to remind Michigan citizens of the importance of dairy in our diet, and we encourage daily consumption of three servings of milk or other dairy products as this greatly helps to reduce risk of osteoporosis, high blood pressure and colon cancer;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Rick Snyder, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim Tuesday, June 12, 2012 as Dairy Day in Michigan.
