Dairy is big business in Washington and according to a WSU economic study, Yakima County's 69 dairy farms likely average $10 million per farm, employ 20-30 people and generate approximately $500 million to the valley's local economy.

Washington's temperate climate, advanced animal genetics and farm management makes the state one of the nation's biggest producers of cow's milk.

The dairy industry here fuels direct and indirect economic impacts of $5.2 billion and employs more than 18,000 people statewide.

Washington ranks 10th in total milk production among the 50 states and is home to approximately 480 dairy farms.

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