Pick real dairy products to help region's farmers

Tuesday, March 20, is National Ag Day. As a third-generation dairy farmer in Enon Valley, I believe this year's theme, "Food for Life," truly captures the essence of dairy farming.

Dairy farmers in Pennsylvania helped create the Fill A Glass with Hope campaign to provide fresh milk to area food banks. For more than 100 years, we have worked in schools to ensure that children receive nutrition education.

Our farm family and the thousands of dairy farmers work every day to provide our communities with wholesome, nourishing and economical dairy products. For example, milk at about 26 cents a glass is a nutritional bargain, delivering calcium, protein, vitamins A & D and a host of other nutrients. That high-quality milk starts with the care we give our animals by ensuring they have a balanced diet and clean, comfortable living conditions.

You may have heard dairy farmers are facing tough times right now, for a number of reasons – and in many cases, it costs us more to produce our milk than what we're paid. But farming isn't just a job, it's our passion.

We need your help. Think of us when you go to the supermarket. Choose real dairy products – milk, cheese, yogurt, or ice cream!

Dave Trotter, Enon Valley, Pa.