Dear CMAB Board of Directors: California dairy continues to lead as a hub of research and innovation for the industry—with statewide efforts and investments ranging from advanced environmental health practices to our strong position in dairy exports and clean-label products. The California Dairy Research Foundation (CDRF) remains at the forefront of managing an ever-growing portfolio of projects that support the long-term success of the California dairy industry. We are proud to play a central role in advancing sustainability and innovation across California dairies. CDRF actively collaborates with industry partners, including Dairy Cares and the California Dairy Quality Assurance Program (CDQAP), to deliver timely research updates, educational resources, and outreach to producers throughout the state. These efforts support the adoption of science-based, environmentally responsible practices while addressing the evolving challenges of dairy production. Through this work, CDRF continues to foster a resilient, forward-thinking California dairy industry that meets the highest standards for sustainability, productivity, and public trust. Primarily funded by the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), CDRF strives to be an exemplary steward of checkoff dollars provided by California dairy farm families. Beyond CMAB funding, we actively seek project co-funding and investments from allied research organizations, government agencies, and private industry. Many of our current projects receive significant co-funding support, as well as leverage additional expertise and resources to maximize impact . A key illustration of this leveraged-investment strategy is the CDRF-led multi-year program under the USDA’s Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) initiative. Together with CDFA, industry organizations and universities, this award (over $85 million) leverages additional non-federal state and private capital (over $300 million total) to help California dairy producers adopt advanced manure-management practices—targeting methane reduction and nitrogen/nutrient surplus mitigation. On behalf of the CDRF Board of Directors and staff, I welcome your input and look forward to continuing our support for California dairy farmers. It is my pleasure to present to the CMAB Board of Directors the proposed 2026 research and education portfolio. Thank you,
Denise Mullinax Executive Director
CDRF 2026 Proposed Projects and Budget Request
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