The End of an Era at One Maine Farm

Even though Maine has, for centuries, been known as a hub for fishing and shipbuilding, the state used to be filled with farms

At one time, a century ago, the landscape was dotted with potato, pea, and broccoli farms.  In addition, many farmers also had herds of dairy cows.

While there are still a few dairy farms in Maine, that era has largely come to an end.

We're getting word that another well-known farm is ceasing its dairy operations.

According to an article in the KJ, New Gloucester's Pineland Farms, known for having one of the oldest dairy cow herds in the nation, have ended their dairy operations and sold all but two cows from their herd.

As is often the case when a business makes a major change in operations, the reason for the herd sell-off is financial.  The cost of milking and caring for the massive herd had just become too costly.  The article explains that a representative for Pineland Farms said it lost $500,000 to $600,000 a year on the operation in recent years and was effectively subsidizing its commercial dairy operation.

The herd of 100 was reportedly sold off in March at a cost of just over $2,000 per cow.

A representative for the farm says it is believed that Pineland's ending dairy operations will probably strengthen the dairy industry in Maine.

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These days, Pineland Farm is less a stereotypical farm and more of an experience.  There is a market, a cafe, hiking trails, disc golf, a cornfield maze, and more.  You can learn about all the farm offers from their website.