Chapin has been critical to the dairy industry in Michigan and across the country for his role throughout the H5N1 crisis since its inception in March. He advocated to legislators and regulators for a science-based regulatory approach; he regularly spoke to media about the effects of the outbreak; and he helped maintain industry relations within the agriculture community both in Michigan and more broadly.
“Our objective was to make sure that the response made sense and was manageable by our dairy producers to make sure that they could operate within the guidance that Michigan was putting out and to work with the USDA,” Chapin said.
Chapin has also been instrumental in the Federal Milk Marketing Order reform process. During the FMMO reform hearings this year, Doug provided testimony advocating for the “higher of” Class III or IV proposal for the Class I mover, supporting his testimony with data and his farm’s experience during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Earlier this month, Chapin was awarded NMPF’s 2024 Farmer Communicator of the Year award in recognition of his leadership and contributions throughout the H5N1 crisis and FMMO reform.
For the rest of this feature on Doug Chapin and Chapin Family Farms, or to view other stories in our Farmer Focus series, check out NMPF’s
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