LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim June 2012, as Dairy Month in the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to memorialize Gover-
nor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 2012, as Dairy Month in the State
of New York; in addition, Dairy Day will be recognized on Tuesday, June
12, 2012; and
WHEREAS, Agriculture continues to rank as the number one industry in
New York State, with dairy farms across the State from Chautauqua County
to Washington County; and
WHEREAS, The dairy industry is the single largest sector of New York
State's vast and diverse agricultural industry, accounting for over 45
percent of the State's farm cash receipts from all products; and
WHEREAS, New York's 611,000 dairy cows produce 12.7 billion pounds of
milk worth over $2.28 billion annually; and
WHEREAS, New York's dairy farmers produce 6.9 percent of the nation's
milk supply, ranking third among the states in total milk production,
first in low fat cottage and creamed cottage cheese production, and
fourth in total cheese production; and
WHEREAS, The value added to New York's economy by agriculture accounts
for more than $4.7 billion annually, with nearly half of that amount
from the direct sale of dairy products by New York farmers; and
WHEREAS, The dairy industry is an integral segment of New York State's
economy and a major employer of labor from all phases of production,
through marketing of milk and dairy products; and
WHEREAS, New York's dairy farmers have historically been the stewards
of the land, contributing to the State's diverse agricultural landscapes
through responsible conservation practices and investments in technolo-
gy; and
WHEREAS, New York's milk and dairy products have been shown to promote
weight loss, build strong bones and promote overall better health; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
acknowledge the contributions of the dairy industry and New York's dairy
farmers, and to join with farmers and consumers all across the State to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 2012, as Dairy
Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.