The number of organic dairies is growing at such a rapid clip in Washington and Oregon that farmers are struggling to find enough local suppliers of organic feed and hay to support nearly 30,000 organic milk cows in the two states, according to the Washington Agriculture Department.

Cows must be fed organic feed for their milk to be certified organic. The Agriculture Department licenses more than 550 dairies in Washington, of which 25 are certified organic through the agency's Organic Food Program. Another 18 are in transition. An additional 20 dairies in Oregon are either organic or are in transition. Six years ago, there were only two organic dairies in Washington.

Jay Gordon, executive director of the state Dairy Federation, says that local suppliers to feed companies can't meet the demand for organic meal from soybeans, canola, sunflower or safflower. "Our area farmers are also having a difficult time finding organic hay," Gordon says. "Dairy farmers are concerned about this shortage, and we see a real opportunity for Washington crop growers."