Thought this might help spread a little Christmas cheer: today I received an email from the South Dakota Department of Agriculture bearing the happy tidings that the proposed raw milk rules have been withdrawn. This is thanks to everyone who attended the hearing and submitted written comments; there is power in numbers.
Secretary Bill Even stated that he has decided to withdraw the proposed rules but intends to continue working on the issue. This is an opportune time to communicate with him about what we, producers and consumers, believe to be beneficial. In the meantime, take a few moments to email Secretary Even and express your thanks at his decision. If we can keep the lines of communication open with the department, it will make it easier to address this issue in the future.
Click here to read the letter: Raw Milk Rules Hearing December 21, 2009