By Charlie Elrod, NEAFA President
I often say that “the world is run by those who show up.” That principle remains as true today as ever. In a time when our businesses and the customers we serve are facing significant challenges, the need for a strong, engaged, and effective Alliance has never been greater. NEAFA plays a vital role in helping members navigate uncertainty, advocate for our industry, and stay informed. One of the simplest—and most important—ways to “show up” right now is by ensuring your membership is renewed.
Membership invoices were initially distributed in December, with follow-ups sent in February to those who had yet to renew. Currently, 48 memberships remain outstanding. Our membership committee has been working diligently, personally reaching out to those members. It should go without saying, but without the continued support of membership dues, our ability to sustain essential advocacy, education, and industry initiatives is at risk.
If you are unsure of your membership status, I encourage you to contact Sue Van Amburgh at your earliest convenience. While you are reviewing your membership, please also take a moment to confirm that your company’s contact information in last year’s Membership Directory is accurate. Consider whether any updates are needed—adding or removing team members as appropriate. The directory is an invaluable resource that many of us rely on regularly. Please note that companies with unpaid dues as of the end of June will not be included in the upcoming directory.
June also marks Dairy Month, a time to celebrate the strength, innovation, and contributions of the dairy industry. Established in 1937 to promote milk consumption during peak production, Dairy Month continues to highlight the essential role dairy producers play in supporting rural communities, strengthening local economies, and providing nutritious food. As in recent years, NEAFA leadership will join partners from NEDPA, the New York Farm Bureau, and the Department of Agriculture and Markets to participate in a regional Dairy Day celebration.
While there is much to celebrate—including expanding processing capacity and increased milk production across our region—we must also recognize the challenges ahead. Global conflict, such as the war in Iran, along with inflationary pressures driven by tariffs, rising fuel costs, and increased fertilizer prices, continues to impact our industry. These factors may well reduce crop yields and drive up production costs, placing further strain on profitability for many producers.
The work we do collectively to support dairy producers across the Northeast is critical. Your involvement strengthens our voice and our impact. Beyond maintaining your membership, I encourage you to consider further supporting NEAFA through a sustaining sponsorship.
Together, by remaining engaged and committed, we can ensure that the Northeast continues to be a thriving and competitive region for dairy production.