Alaska is one of the last frontiers in the United States, famous for its vast wilderness, freezing temperatures, and isolated communities. Among all these harsh elements, one family has kept a rare and precious tradition alive — dairy farming.
Scott Plagerman and his family run Alaska Range Dairy, the only commercial dairy farm in Alaska. Their story is one of grit, family unity, and innovation in one of the toughest farming environments in America.
A Family Legacy Rooted in Alaska
The Plagerman family began milking cows in Alaska in the 1950s. While dairy farming was once scattered across the state, many farms shut down over the decades due to Alaska’s brutal climate and high costs.
Scott grew up helping on the farm and inherited the responsibility of running it. Unlike dairy farms in temperate states, Alaska’s extreme environment made every aspect of the work a challenge.
Battling the Alaskan Elements
Operating a dairy farm in Alaska means facing:
Extreme Cold: Temperatures often drop below -40°F, requiring insulated barns and heated water systems to keep cows healthy.
Heavy Snow: Snowfall can isolate the farm for days, affecting deliveries and supply runs.
High Costs: Feed and equipment often must be shipped from the mainland, increasing expenses.
Limited Market: Small local population means less demand, requiring premium pricing for fresh milk.
Scott and his family have engineered creative solutions to survive these harsh realities.
Innovation: Key to Survival
To keep the farm running efficiently, Scott invested in:
Automated milking machines to reduce manual labor.
Climate-controlled barns ensuring cows’ health during long winters.
Solar panels and energy-efficient tech to lower operating costs.
Collaborations with local businesses for resource sharing and sales.
The Heartbeat: Family and Community
Alaska Range Dairy is a family-run operation. Scott’s wife, children, and neighbors share daily chores — from feeding and milking to equipment repair and deliveries.
Their teamwork has allowed the farm to thrive despite economic and environmental challenges. Scott hopes to pass this legacy to his children and inspire future generations.
Economics: How Does It Add Up?
Despite high costs, Scott’s farm maintains profitability.
Aspect Details
Monthly Milk Production ~5,000 gallons
Price per Gallon $3.50 (premium fresh local milk)
Milk Revenue $17,500 monthly
Additional Income $2,000 (calves, fertilizers, farm tours)
Monthly Expenses $15,000 (feed, labor, utilities, maintenance)
Monthly Profit $4,500
Annual Profit Estimate $54,000 (pre-tax/subsidies)
Government subsidies for remote farmers help offset Alaska’s high operating costs.
Beyond Business: Community Impact
Scott’s fresh milk helps reduce Alaska’s dependency on imported dairy, strengthening local food security. Farm tours educate residents about farming challenges in the state, fostering community support.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Dairy Farming in Alaska
Scott envisions his children continuing the farm and more Alaskan farmers adopting sustainable dairy practices. His story demonstrates that with perseverance, innovation, and community support, success is possible even in the most extreme environments.
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