ALTERNATIVE FLUID MILK PROCUREMENT SYSTEMS FOR FLORIDA DAIRY FARMERS

This article evaluates the effects of alternative fluid milk procurement strategies on the aggregate net revenue of Florida cooperative members. They are (1) supplemental milk obtained from import sources, (2) supplemental milk obtained from a supply plant, (3) increased supply as a result of an expanded production area, and (4) supplemental milk obtained through pooling arrangements with regional dairy cooperatives. The final ranking of a scenario appears to be dependent primarily on the total cost of exports within the model. The optimal procurement strategy for Florida cooperatives should concentrate on reducing the quantity of surplus milk