The one percent increase is certainly meager.

Since the early 1980s, the state’s dairy cow numbers have been in a consistent downward spiral.

But it was reported earlier this week in an Associated Press story that for the first time in over 20 years, Wisconsin’s cow numbers increased, up 8,000 from one year ago, according to state statistics.

While that is not cause to proclaim the state’s dairy industry has completely rebounded from the loss of hundreds of active farms from our dairy landscape, it is cause for optimism. According to the AP story, the state’s cow population is at 1.24 million.

But as also noted in that story by a Clark County dairy producer, there can be a downside to the increase in dairy cows. More cows generally means more milk, which generally equates into lower milk prices.

The dairy producer pointed to an increase of out-of-state farmers moving to Wisconsin and buying smaller “retired” dairy operations and getting them back into the dairy pipeline again.

As I scan through a couple of state ag newspapers each week, there are still too many dairy farms listed for sale. Those “for sale” signs are harsh reminders of the volatility of milk pricing.

There have been many farmers over the years who attempted to lobby support for production control among fellow producers, with marginal success.

Proponents for large dairy confinement operations will certainly line up to take some of the credit that Wisconsin’s cow numbers have stabilized for at least one year. Those operations certainly play a key role in Wisconsin’s dairy infrastructure.

For years we have heard that in order for Wisconsin dairy producers to keep pace nationally, our dairy landscape must consist primarily of sprawling freestall barns.

That’s why I found the comment from the Clark County producer encouraging that he is seeing some smaller farms put back in operation out-of-state.

As I have stated in the past, I am not a proponent of confinement livestock production, whether it be raising poultry, beef, hogs or milking cows. But with that said, confinement operations are entrenched in Wisconsin agriculture whether I like them or not. But I have yet to be convinced that 10 large dairy farms in one county is better than 100 small to moderate sized operations.

But another comment from that same farmer was also discouraging to me. He said, “To be progressive nowadays, you have to grow. It is never ending.”

That is the perfect lead into what I feel those who drive the state’s dairy engine must advocate.

While conventional milk prices continue on their roller coaster pace, the demand for organic milk remains strong, according to one of the nation’s leading organic food cooperatives, Organic Valley.

Wisconsin must take a more proactive stance in educating dairy producers who may be thinking about - but are skeptical - to transition into organic dairy production.

Many have transitioned into organic milk production. After talking with organic dairy producers, the common theme is that it takes commitment.

But don’t be fooled, there is a very real wedge between organic and conventional dairy producers. Conventional producers have no intention of giving any ground when it comes to the consumer perception that dairy products that originate from an organic bulk tank are healthier than products that start with milk from a conventional bulk tank.

But that argument will be decided by consumers. That should not hinder efforts to promote organic dairy production. The Clark County dairy producer noted that he is seeing more out-of-state folks buying inactive dairy operations.

Maybe some of those Wisconsin farms would be passed onto the next generation if the cash flow looked more positive with a stable organic milk price versus the volatile conventional market.

A one percent increase is certainly meager, but with cow numbers declining for 20 years, we should take meager and work to build from there.

Rockin Rec Park blitz starts

With less than one month to go, expect to see and hear more about Rockin Rec Park over the next few weeks.

Rockin Rec Park is the event being coordinated by the Tomah Lions Club that features four bands on Aug. 19 at Recreation Park from 1 to 11 p.m.

The Lizardz, Catfish Walker Band, Bonneville Roof Riders and Thunder Road are the bands and will play in the order listed.

Marie and I went on a “road trip” last Friday night to see The Lizardz, who played at the Hotel Mead in Wisconsin Rapids.

Of the four bands, The Lizardz were the only one I had not had the opportunity to see in person. Marie and I were impressed and entertained. The four bands promise to make it a worthwhile concert.

Advance tickets are $10 and $15 the day of the concert. If you want more information, give me a call at 374-7786. Look me up at the fair. I will have some tickets on hand.

Also during the morning of that same day, the Tomah Chamber of Commerce is hosting Gasoline Alley Day in Gillett Park. If you want more information on Gasoline Alley Day events, call the Chamber at 372-2166.

One more thing, it was decided by Gasoline Alley Day organizers that there are plans for a Little Miss Tomah coronation.

Now all that is needed is young ladies to enter. Watch for more details in Monday’s Tomah Monitor-Herald.

Mark the day on your calendar and come out and support both.

Bob Kliebenstein is a staff writer for Tomah Newspapers.