By Ryan Raicht
Fifty years ago, Rockbridge County was home to 10 times the number of local dairy farms compared to what exists today. Mountain View Farm Products in Fairfield has diversified to offer dairy products such as aged cheese and traditionally pasteurized products, as well as raw milk. Rock Bottom Dairy in Rockbridge Baths has established automated, robotic milking machines that
have increased production and reduced labor costs. Both farms are adapting to changing tastes and economic demands.