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    11212 - Dairy Cattle and Milk Production

    If you're involved in or exploring the agricultural sector, understanding NAICS code 11212 is essential. This code plays a crucial role in identifying businesses engaged in dairy cattle and milk production, a vital subsector within the agricultural economy. Whether you're a government contractor, investor, or agricultural entrepreneur, knowing the details of NAICS 11212 can help you align with the right opportunities and regulations.

    What is NAICS Code 11212?

    NAICS code 11212, titled Dairy Cattle and Milk Production, represents establishments primarily engaged in producing milk from dairy cattle. This classification encompasses the activities involved in raising dairy cows, milking operations, and preparing milk for commercial distribution.

    Industry Description:

    • Production of milk from dairy cattle
    • Raising and managing dairy cows
    • Extraction and processing of milk for sale

    Sector Overview: Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting

    NAICS 11212 falls under the broad Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting sector, which covers industries involved with cultivating crops and raising animals. This sector is a foundation of the U.S. and global economy by providing essential food products such as milk and dairy derivatives.

    Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 11212 Include:

    • Operating dairy farms
    • Managing milk production facilities
    • Raising and breeding dairy cattle
    • Milk extraction and initial processing for wholesale or retail sale

    Small Business Size Standards for NAICS 11212

    To qualify for small business programs or government contracting opportunities under NAICS 11212, businesses must meet the size standards established by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Size standards are typically based on annual receipts.

    NAICS Code Industry Title Sector Size Standard (Annual Receipts)
    11212 Dairy Cattle and Milk Production Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, Hunting $1,000,000

    Note: Size standards can vary, so it's important to verify the current thresholds via the SBA.

    Examples of Businesses in NAICS 11212

    • Family-owned dairy farms producing milk for local markets
    • Large-scale commercial dairy operations supplying regional or national distributors
    • Specialized dairy cattle breeding and raising establishments
    • Milk collection and cooling facilities preparing milk for processing plants

    These businesses play a vital role in maintaining a steady supply of dairy products to consumers and industrial users alike.

    Detailed NAICS Code 11212 Information Table

    Attribute Details
    NAICS Code 11212
    Industry Title Dairy Cattle and Milk Production
    Sector Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
    Description Establishments primarily engaged in milk production from dairy cattle, including raising dairy cows and extracting milk for commercial sale
    Typical Businesses Dairy farms, milk production operations, dairy cattle raising establishments
    Size Standard $1,000,000 (Annual Receipts)
    Associated Activities Dairy cattle breeding, milking, milk handling

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What activities are included in NAICS 11212?

    NAICS 11212 covers all activities related to raising dairy cattle and producing milk. This includes feeding, breeding, milking, and initial milk extraction operations primarily for commercial sale.

    How does NAICS 11212 differ from other dairy-related codes?

    While NAICS 11212 focuses on the production of milk from dairy cattle, other codes may involve processing milk into products like cheese, butter, or yogurt (e.g., NAICS 3115 - Dairy Product Manufacturing).

    What is the importance of NAICS code classification?

    NAICS codes help businesses identify their industry for taxation, eligibility for government programs, contracting opportunities, and statistical analysis.

    Can a dairy farm qualify as a small business?

    Yes. If the farm's annual receipts do not exceed $1,000,000, it usually qualifies as a small business under SBA standards for NAICS 11212.

    Where can I find the official classification and updates for NAICS 11212?

    Official NAICS classifications are available from the U.S. Census Bureau and the SBA websites, which regularly update codes and size standards.


    Understanding NAICS code 11212 is essential for anyone in the dairy agriculture industry or looking to engage with this sector. By identifying your business correctly under this code, you position yourself for growth, funding opportunities, and compliance with industry standards.

    Keywords: NAICS code 11212, Dairy cattle production, Milk production, Dairy farms, Agriculture sector, Small business size standards, Dairy industry NAICS.