Do you know what the Dairy Community does for Warren County? Hi I am Miranda Gates, your 2025-26 Warren County Dairy Princess and I am here to tell you. Based on the 2022 NASS Agricultural census performed, there were a total of 4,027 farms in Pennsylvania, 455,024 dairy cows and the average herd size is 113 cows.The dairy industry creates 45,502 jobs in the state.

In 2022, Warren County was the home to 29 dairy farms mostly family owned and operated with 3,053 cows residing. The average herd size is 105 cows. These farms operate and employ other individuals to keep the farm running seven days a week. Most farms milk cows two times a day, some milk three times a day and in Warren County we have one dairy farm that uses Robots to milk their cows. The dairy industry in Warren County provides 305 jobs.

It’s not just the dairy farms providing opportunities. We have two local feed mills in Warren County. Enos Milling & Tire Service in Sugar Grove and Lottsville Milling in Lottsville that employ individuals to work and help produce a quality feed product to be used on local farms.

Russell Veterinary in Russell employs staff to go out to local farms to help with animal health and have their clinic available.

When you are driving through Warren County and you see these farms remember they are not only providing you with milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream to enjoy, they are making a huge impact on our economy providing jobs.

I am proud to say that I live and help on our family dairy farm in Lander. My grandma and mom with the help of my brother and sisters, my aunts and uncles, cousins and family friends keep Aggravation Acres running. The farm has taught me how to be responsible, time management and dedication to an industry that I love.

I want to thank all of our local farmers for all you do for Warren County.

Miranda Gates is a Lander resident.