*MEDIA STATEMENT*
The Organic Trade Association (OTA) welcomes the creation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) of a new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program (ODMAP) to help small- and medium-sized dairy operations who, after weathering the pandemic, are now dealing with additional challenges. Unprecedented shocks to global trade necessitate action and this action is critically necessary to ensure the livelihood of many organic dairy farmers. Organic dairy farmers are facing catastrophic economic challenges as the availability of organic feedstuffs has declined dramatically, resulting in costs climbing significantly over the past 18 months. OTA and its members have spearheaded a drive in Congress to bring this urgent issue to the attention of USDA, and we thank USDA for urgently recognizing the unique needs of organic producers. Beyond the ODMAP, organic dairy and poultry farmers still need further support – OTA will continue to advocate for appropriate and relevant risk management tools to address the unique needs of organic producers.