Public Perception and the Future of the Illinois Dairy Industry

Problem statement: Illinois dairy production is shrinking both absolutely and relative to other states. If historic trends continue growth will come from larger, more technologically and economically efficient dairy operations. Several expansions that could have slowed the decline have been thwarted by community opposition. This paradox, the need for change versus resistance to growth in dairy farming, motivated the study upon which this article was based. This study explored the reasons for the conflict with rural residents. Approach: A mail survey was conducted to identify characteristics correlated with a tendency to accept dairy as a neighbor. Results: Community acceptance was associated with residence in a traditional "dairy county" and with having other dairy experience. New residents in growing urban areas are less tolerant of dairy. Conclusion: Illinois dairy developers may face less opposition by looking for demographic characteristics that correlate with a favorable view.