For California, noted milk production differences for this week compared to last week are mixed. Some handlers in California indicate milk production is beginning to strengthen in recent weeks and slowly bounce back from lower than typical milk production over recent months leading up to December. That said, other handlers convey preliminary records indicate December 2024 year-over-year milk output to be down. Manufacturing capacity remains available, and spot loads of milk remain tight. Demands for all Classes are steady. According to the California Department of Water Resources, as of December 18, 2024, the current statewide snowpack total for the 2024-25 water year is above the benchmark in terms of the average amount as of December 18.
Milk production in Arizona is strengthening. Spot load availability is in-line with recent weeks. All Class demands are steady. In New Mexico, farm level milk output is strengthening. Like its neighboring states, spot milk load availability is close to recent prior weeks. All Class manufacturing demands are steady.
Handlers in the Pacific Northwest note steady or strengthening milk production. In terms of anticipated milk output, most handlers convey volumes are right on forecast. Some handlers note milder weather where farms are located is contributing to being on the plus side of forecasts. Demands for all Classes are steady.
Farm level milk output in the mountain states of Idaho, Utah, and Colorado, varies from steady to stronger. Availability of spot milk loads is somewhat looser recently due to some unplanned down time at processing facilities in parts of the mountain states area. Class I and IV demands are steady. Class II and III demands vary from steady to lighter. Specifically regarding Class II demand from ice cream manufacturers, some stakeholders note demand during 2024 has been lighter in general.
Cream loads remain readily available throughout most of the region. Demand varies from light to steady. Cream multiples moved lower for the bottom end of the Class II range. Both condensed skim milk availability and demand are mixed.
