Idaho organic dairies growing rapidly

Ben Pulsipher was managing a 2,000-cow conventional dairy in Raft River when he decided it was time to start his own operation.  With conventional dairies struggling to cope with low milk prices, Pulsipher reasoned the organic price premium would make it economical for him to start with a small herd and gradually grow.  A few months since entering the organic industry, Pulsipher said his contract still justifies the extra hassle, but he’s begun to worry too many other Idaho producers have reached the same conclusion and may be gradually flooding the niche market.  He and his partner, Evan Israelson, sell milk to Sorrento Lactalis in Nampa for organic string cheese production, operating as Anhder Organic Family Dairy, LLC. They bought their dairy, which switched to organic production under the previous owner last November, in May and milk 200 cows.