The Dairy Products Association of Kentucky (DPAK) is accepting nominations for the annual Kentucky Quality Dairy Producer and Kentucky Quality Milk Hauler awards.

Both awards will be presented at the 2011 Kentucky State Fair Dairy Recognition and Awards Banquet in August.

The producer award recognizes the Kentucky dairy producer or farm family that exemplifies quality milk production in Kentucky each year. Four criteria each make up 25 percent of the grade: somatic cell count, bacteria count, preliminary incubation (PI)count and a milk safety farm inspection.

Applications for the producer award may be submitted by producers themselves or by professionals who serve the dairy industry, such as dairy field representatives, veterinarians, dairy extension personnel, milk haulers and inspectors. These individuals should work with the dairy producer to complete the application.

The milk hauler award recognizes the hauler who samples and weighs milk from Kentucky dairy producers while exemplifying quality hauling procedures and exceptionally representing Kentucky’s dairy industry. Selection criteria consist of five categories: accuracy, efficiency and reliability; positive image and cooperation; leadership and service; Regulatory Services compliance; and Milk Safety Branch compliance.

Applications for the hauler award may be submitted by haulers themselves, milk transport companies, producers, processors, dairy field representatives or others familiar with the nominee’s hauling activities.

Applications are available by going to 2011 Milk Quality Awards Info on the University of Kentucky Division of Regulatory Services website at www.rs.uky.edu.

Applications will be based on criteria between April 1, 2010, and March 31, 2011. All nominees must have a valid permit from the Milk Safety Branch for that time period. All applications are to be postmarked or delivered to DPAK no later than June 4.

For more information, contact DPAK Executive Director David Klee at (502) 867-7843.