MT DEPARTMENT OF LIVESTOCK PO BOX 202001 HELENA, MONTANA 59620-2001 (406) 444-7323/FAX (406) 444-1929 livemail@mt.gov
ANIMAL HEALTH (406) 444-2976 BRANDS ENFORCEMENT DIVISION (406) 444-2045 CENTRALIZED SERVICES DIVISION (406) 444-4994 EXECUTIVE OFFICE (406) 444-9321 MEAT MILK & EGG INSPECTION (406) 444-5202
Dear Potential Dairy owner:
Thank you for your interest in dairying in Montana. This letter gives an overview of the requirements that must be met to obtain a Grade A diary license. Detailed information is in the attached document taken from the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO). The PMO is the "rule book" for all Grade A plants and dairies in the U.S. and its territories. The current full version can be found at https://www.fda.gov/food/milk-guidance-documents-regulatory-information/national-conference-interstate-milk-shipments-ncims-model-documents.
It is imperative that you work closely with the sanitarian for your area to avoid any potential delays or revisions as you work toward licensing. Detailed construction plans must be submitted to the Department of Livestock ( MMEIOffice@mt.gov) prior to construction. The plans must include surroundings, wastewater handling, plumbing, electrical (including lighting), potable water supply, and materials for floors, walls, and ceilings as outlined in the PMO.
You will need to work with your county Department of Environmental Health for approval of the wastewater plans for your facility. Appendix C of the PMO (attached) includes many examples of potential wastewater systems, but not all may be acceptable in your area. Your water supply will be tested for coliform prior to licensing and every three years thereafter. Frost free hydrants must be more than 10 feet from the well head. If there is an existing frost-free hydrant closer to the well head, it cannot be used. Sufficient hot water must be available to wash the equipment and the parlor. The more you can contain the wash water the better, as the milk and cleaning chemicals are very harsh on floors.
An equipment list must also be provided to the department prior to purchase and your inspector will inspect equipment prior to licensing. When purchasing equipment, make sure that there are no stains, buildup, rough welds, or rough surfaces in the interior of the equipment. All equipment must meet 3-A standards which are available on here http://www.3-a.org.
Your herd must be tested for tuberculosis and brucellosis prior to licensing. The animal health division and your veterinarian can answer questions regarding testing. Animal health division can be reached at 406-444-2976.
After reviewing the PMO requirements please call the sanitarian listed for your area found here with any questions.
Again, thank you for your interest and we look forward to working with you!