By Andi Anderson
The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach dairy team has released a new publication examining the profitability of dairy goat milk production in Iowa.
The report, titled “Profitability of Iowa Dairy Goat Production in 2024,” shares detailed financial findings to support better management decisions for producers across the state.
The study analyzed financial data from 16 Iowa dairy goat farms during 2024. Researchers grouped farms based on profit levels in order to compare higher and lower performing operations.
This approach helped establish clear benchmarks for income and expenses on a per milking doe basis. The report also includes financial ratios and labor efficiency data measured per full time worker.
Dairy goat producers are encouraged to review the findings and evaluate how the information may improve their own financial performance. By comparing costs of labor use and revenue patterns, farm owners can better understand where adjustments may increase profitability.
Larry Tranel, dairy field specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach and publication author, highlighted Iowa’s strong role in dairy goat production and genetics. He emphasized the importance of understanding profitability as demand for goat milk continues to rise.
“There is a thirst for more dairy goat education and an unfilled demand for more goat milk in Iowa that fuels a need for increased understanding of the profitability of milking dairy goats,” he said.
The publication is available through the ISU Extension Store and can be accessed online. Producers seeking additional information may contact Tranel directly for guidance or clarification about the findings.
The study was conducted as part of the Sustainable Dairy Goat Agri Systems Grant. Funding support came through the Sustainable Agricultural Systems project award number 2024-68012-41749 from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture within the United States Department of Agriculture.
This research provides practical data that dairy goat producers can use to improve financial planning and strengthen long-term success.
By offering clear benchmarks and industry comparisons, the publication supports informed decision making and helps position Iowa’s dairy goat industry for continued growth and stability.
Photo Credit: pexels-pavel-bondarenko
Categories: Iowa, Livestock, Goats & Sheep