Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where do I find my quality test results?
Milk samples are tested regularly for components including butterfat, protein, other solids and somatic cell count (SCC). In addition, quality tests are run monthly for RBC, PIC and LPC.
The test results can be found on the MMPA producer portal (https://www.milkmoovement.com). On the portal, you can sign up for email or text message notifications of the results. If you would like your results via mail, please contact Member Services at 248-474-6672.
Who do I contact for answers to questions about my quality?
Your member representative can assist you with questions related to understanding and improving your quality test results.
For a quick reference guide on milk quality tests, see the Milk Quality Guidelines document in your blue milkhouse binder.
How can I request additional testing services from the lab?
MMPA offers bulk tank and individual cow cultures and/or SCC, bacteria counts, and components. In addition to testing at the MMPA lab, MMPA has partnered with labs in the state to provide additional testing services e.g. mycoplasma and bacteriology cultures, bovine viral diarrhea, Johne’s, bovine leukosis, and milk pregnancy ELISA. Additional fees may apply.
All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA member representative or the laboratory for proper sample submission protocol. For a complete list of tests and fees, go to https://www.milkmoovement.com find the Shared Files tab and click on Member Resources.
Where is my milk marketed?
Member milk is marketed through a variety of channels and may vary based upon your geographic location, quality results, customer needs, daily volumes and other factors.
About half of MMPA member milk is processed at the MMPA plant locations in Ovid, MI, Constantine, MI, Canton, OH, and Middlebury, IN. MMPA products include fluid milk, butter, cheese, ice cream, milk powder and ultra-filtered milk. MMPA also ships milk directly to various dairy customers, including milk bottlers.
How often will I get paid?
MMPA pays on the 26th and the 17th of each month. The 26th check is an advance on the current month’s milk. The 17th is the settlement check.
For example, the 7/26 check is July’s advance payment. The 8/17 check is the settlement payment for July.
What is the market adjustment on my milk check?
The market adjustment is a reflection of market conditions and the value of your milk (what your milk was sold for).
The market adjustment is influenced by the volume of milk in the market, net impact of market premiums received and quality premiums paid, and the uncontrollable impact of commodity markets.
What is the producer price differential (PPD) on my milk check?
The Producer Price Differential (PPD) is the result of capturing the value of milk marketing efforts within the Federal Order.
The PPD is used to account for the difference between the Class III price and the Uniform price. Not to be confused with the Market Adjustment, the PPD is calculated by the USDA Market Administrator and is not determined by MMPA.
How do I get involved in MMPA?
The first place to get involved in MMPA is by attending your District meeting. District meetings typically take place in December.
These meetings include an update from your District board member, District elections and opportunities to connect with fellow members in your area.
If you are a member 40 or under, you are welcome to participate in the Young Cooperator program, which includes leadership and networking opportunities for younger members and member employees.
Contact Member Relations at 248-474-6672 for more information.
Who is eligible to vote in MMPA elections?
Any eligible milk producer who signs a membership agreement provided by the association and whose application for membership is approved by the board of directors becomes a member of this association.
If a milk producer (a sole proprietor, partnership, limited liability company or corporation) owns more than one dairy farm, the association may enter into separate marketing agreements with such producer with respect to each farm so owned, and the milk producer will be deemed to be a separate member with respect to each such farm.
Membership in this association shall not be transferable. Each member will have one vote in any matter submitted to a vote of the members.
Any vote cast by a member that is not a natural person must be cast by an individual who is regularly and materially involved in the business of the member’s milk production, according to rules established by the board of directors.
There shall be no voting by proxy.
How do I stay informed about MMPA?
To keep members informed, MMPA publishes a variety of member communication materials, including a bi-monthly magazine (Milk Messenger), a monthly newsletter (Member Connection) and weekly email (e-news).
Members are also encouraged to attend member meetings, get involved with the cooperative or reach out to their District board member with questions.
A current list of MMPA board members and their phone numbers can be found in the Milk Messenger.
What do I need to do if my farm’s ownership structure changes?
If you need to make changes to your farm’s ownership structure, such as adding a partner, please contact MMPA Member Services at 248-747-6672 or your member representative.
How do I submit a classified ad in the Milk Messenger magazine?
MMPA lists classified ads in the Milk Messenger magazine for people looking to buy, sell or trade everything from farm equipment to cattle to land.
Members can place “freeliner” ads free of charge.
To place an ad, email messenger@mimilk.com or visit www.mimilk.com/freeliner-classified.
How do I get MMPA gear?
MMPA sells branded clothing, hats and farm signs through the MMPA Farm Supply Store.
Shop online at www.mimilk.com/farm-supply-store.
Where can I purchase MMPA dairy products?
Heritage Ridge Creamery cheese and butter are available at www.heritageridgecreamery.com.
Members receive a 20 percent discount when they use code MEMBER20 at checkout using the email address associated with their account on the producer portal (https://www.milkmoovement.com).
A selection of MMPA dairy products are also available to purchase at the MMPA Farm Supply Store.
