Dairy Belt

region, United States

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Last updated

June 25, 2026

Quick Summary

The Dairy Belt is a region in the northeastern United States and the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence region. It is characterized by shorter growing seasons and cooler summers, which are ideal for growing clover, timothy hay, and hardy small grains. These crops are used to support dairy farming. Dairying is also practiced on the Pacific Coast in Washington and British Columbia, where the climate is mild and conducive to lush pastures. This contrasts with the Corn Belt, which has warmer summers and is dominated by corn and soybean cultivation.12

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North America
Cool temperate, humid regions
The Dairy Belt, another recognized division, makes use of a shorter growing season and cooler summers in New England and the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence region, where clover, timothy hay, and hardy small grains thrive. Dairying also exploits the lush pastures of the Pacific Coast’s equable climate…
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The Dairy Belt, another recognized division, makes use of a shorter growing season and cooler summers in New England and the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence region, where clover, timothy hay, and hardy small grains thrive. Dairying also exploits the lush pastures of the Pacific Coast’s equable climate…
Read More