The problem with making excess milk into cheese is that it happens in a totally different plant in a totally different area. By the time it can get redirected, it's beyond the safe handling dates for raw milk. The American Dairy Association is working on the bigger-picture distribution system. If you have local shortages, let them know and they'll add the area to their plans.
This all comes directly from my sister - a Maryland dairy farmer. She hasn't had to dump, yet, but that's because they already redirect a lot of their milk into local cheese making (Chesapeake Gold Farms ... Awesome Stuff!) They are lucky to have that alternative plan already in place. Not all farmers are set up for that, yet ... but many are working on it!
I can't get the FB link to load, but there's a great video from Cow Comfort Inn Dairy, in Maryland, about milk dumping and the supply chain. It explains a lot.
