A long-awaited final rule on the future shape of federal milk marketing orders could come from USDA this week, says the National Milk Producers Federation.  USDA published a draft proposal to reform the orders last year.

Among the issues that have divided the U.S. dairy industry are the options for establishing Class I differentials.  USDA has indicated it supports one option, but many dairy producers support another.  The differentials play a significant part in determining the price farmers receive for their milk.

Other issues involve the pricing structure for Class III and IV products.

The NMPF board of directors meets April 13 in Washington to consider a response to the final rule.