South Dakota Lawmakers Consider Raw Milk Rules

Raw milk is a topic for South Dakota lawmakers this session, and I think I'm happy to not have to make any decisions or set any state policy on this one.

You see, my experience with raw, or "fresh" milk is extremely limited. I know, I know, it has its supporters and its fanatics and that's fine, but hear me out.

When I was a kid, my dad milked a few cows--no more than five, and usually fewer, although the barn on our northern McCook County farm had stanchions for close to 30.

Anyway, one time I was curious about what milk straight from the cow would taste like, so my mother gave me some. I can still remember the size and color of the little glass she put it in.

It was a really small amount, and I tasted it. and that was all I needed. The milk was warm, of course, and while I didn't get sick the memory has stayed with me nearly 60 years later.

So decide whatever you want to, legislators, and drink all you want, raw milk fans, legally or illegally. Whatever you do is fine with me.

I think I'll sit this one out.