Family-Owned Dairy Farms Thrive Amid Decline in Michigan
Michigan's landscape of dairy farming has undergone significant changes, with a notable decrease in the number of family-owned dairy farms. From 2017 to 2020 alone, the state saw a significant reduction in such farms. However, approximately 850 dairy farms remain, supplying milk, cheese, and ice cream throughout Michigan.
Among the notable family-owned dairy farms is Ankley Family Farm located in North Branch. This third-generation centennial farm milks around 90 cows twice daily and is renowned for its handmade ice cream sandwiches. The farm also raises beef cattle and crops, and features a farm stand offering various produce and events.
Country Dairy, situated in New Era, is another prominent farm that began with Andrew Van Gunst, an immigrant from the Netherlands. Now in its fourth generation, the farm maintains a herd of 1,200 cows and produces over 70,000 gallons of milk weekly. The farm also hosts an ice cream store and offers educational programs.
Cook's Family Farm in Otisville has been operational since 1933. After a fire destroyed their original dairy barn, the Cook family rebuilt and added an on-site milk processing plant. Today, they focus on both dairy and ice cream production, utilizing their own crops to feed the cows.
Crooked Creek Farm Dairy in Romeo maintains a farm-to-table approach, featuring an on-site dairy processing plant and a farm store. They offer farm-raised beef, homemade ice cream, and dairy products, and are known for having a runway for local pilots.
Calder Dairy & Farm, with operations in multiple Michigan locations, continues the tradition of home delivery of milk in recyclable glass bottles. The farm, founded by William G.S. Calder, milks 180 cows and offers a range of homemade dairy products.
Other notable farms include Cloverdale Farms, a member of the Michigan Milk Producers Association; Shuler Dairy Farms, known for its long history and modern robotic milking system; De Grins Oer Dairy, recognized for its innovative farming techniques; SwissLane Farms, which offers tours and showcases robotic milking; and Horning Family Farms, which operates on 800 acres of family-owned land.
