The Alliance of Western Milk Producers, a Sacramento, Calif.-based coalition of California dairy processing cooperatives representing 60% of California’s milk, ceased operations, effective Nov. 1.

The Alliance members, California Dairies, Inc. and Dairy Farmers of America Western Area, determined that a formal organization is no longer necessary to accomplish a concerted effort of California cooperatives.

“Our commitment to working together for the mutual benefit of our respective members remains strong. However, the landscape of the dairy industry has changed dramatically over the last 21 years,” says Tony Mendes, chairman of the board. “As successful as the alliance has been, the leadership of CDI and DFA has concluded that the ability to collaborate and communicate is most efficiently and effectively achieved through a less formal and more flexible structure. I look forward to effectuating this new approach to meet the mutual challenges facing the members of CDI and DFA.”