In 2020, the Center for Survey Statistics and Methodology–Survey Research Services (CSSMSRS) at Iowa State University was contracted to conduct an online/mail survey with dairy farmers in Iowa to learn about their current operations, needs, and expectations for the future. This survey was part of a research effort coordinated by Jennifer Bentley, Fred Hall, and Larry Tranel, dairy specialists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, who served as principal investigators on this project.

Results provide insight on the current state of the dairy industry in Iowa and will be summarized through reports for educators, industry collaborators, elected officials, and the public. This information will help educators and industry collaborators determine educational programming areas in the short and long term. Additionally, results will help all audiences better understand the demographic of dairy farms, management practices used, and the future of the industry.