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AMPI cites lower regional milk production for plant closures

Associated Milk Producers, Inc. says the closing of two milk plants is because of less milk production in those areas.  AMPI shut down the dry milk plant in Arlington, Iowa and the Rochester Minnesota cheese plant last week.  In a statement, AMPI says Minnesota has lost 40 percent of its dairy farms, while Iowa has lost 50 percent of its dairy farms since 2008.

Milk from the region’s remaining producers is being sent to other AMPI plants including Blair and Portage, Wisconsin.  The company will reportedly continue operating its milk shipping and receiving stations in Earlville, Iowa and Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.

AMPI’s statement says they are evaluating what to do with the closed facilities and are working with the 124 affected employees for retraining or possible opportunities at other company plants.