The Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy® is accepting nominations for the fifth year of the U.S. Dairy Sustainability Awards. The awards recognize outstanding dairy farms, businesses and partnerships for socially responsible, economically viable and environmentally sound practices. Nominations are encouraged for farms, organizations and partnerships that employ sustainable practices that are making a difference.

“Sustainable practices across the supply chain — from the everyday to the breakthrough — add up to an incredible amount of positive change for communities across the country. The U.S. Dairy Sustainability Awards highlight those who are leading the way,” said Barbara O’Brien, president of the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. “Sharing the winners’ stories of successful collaborations and innovative practices helps other dairy farms and businesses become more sustainable while continuing to meet the needs of an ever-growing population.”

“For the last five years, the U.S. Dairy Sustainability Awards have brought to the forefront the commitment and care many dairy farms, companies and brands are demonstrating for our communities and our environment. Last year, we were able to recognize even more collaborations with two new categories in communities and achievements in resource stewardship,” said Paul Rovey of Rovey Dairy and chairman of Dairy Management Inc.™ “We encourage dairy farms and businesses to nominate themselves, their business partners or their neighbors so we can share more stories of success and further advance the industry’s best practices.”

The 2016 winners will receive:
– An expense-paid trip in April 2016 to the awards ceremony and dairy sustainability events
– National and local recognition of their stories and passion for sustainability
– A featured case study on USDairy.com/Sustainability to share insights and lessons learned with industry peers
– Opportunities to work with others in the industry, helping to advance sustainability

The deadline for applications is Dec. 4, 2015. There is no fee to enter. For more information, visit USDairy.com/Sustainability/Awards.