The Economic Impact of Dairy Farming

Dairy farming contributes greatly to Vermont, not only to the culture, history and landscape, but to the economy as well. In 2002, the American Farmland Trust conducted a study on the profile of Addison and Franklin Counties, Vermont. The study found that farmers typically spend more locally than other businesses, since they rely on a variety of local businesses: feed and seed dealers, fertilizer and fuel companies, machinery dealerships and repair shops. The study showed that Addison and Franklin county farms added $450 million annually to the local economy
Were responsible for more than one-tenth of all the farm sales in New England
Supported local businesses by spending $169.6 million on farm expenses
Provided more than 10 percent of all the jobs in the region

For more information or to obtain a copy of "The Economic Importance of Agriculture; A Profile of Addison and Franklin Counties, Vermont" contact the American Farmland Trust at (518)581-0078.