The U.S. Department of Agriculture this week announced the establishment of a $400 million Dairy Donation Program. It’s part of the pandemic assistance announced in March. South Dakota Dairy Producer’s Association President Marv Post says he’s glad to see the Ag Department come out with this because it has benefits for both consumers and producers and meets a real need of those who are lacking nutrition in their diets.

He says one of the most positive goals of the Dairy Donation Program is its geared to help reduce food waste.

Post says with the waste elimination aspect of the DDP, hopefully it will prevent dumping of milk which happened in the past due to over production and lack of immediate processing.

Under the DDP eligible dairy organizations will partner with non-profit feeding groups that distribute food to individuals and families in need.