What started with only seven cows and a dream has grown into one of Michigan’s most celebrated dairy operations.
De Grins Oer Dairy, a family-run farm in Blanchard, has been named the 2026 Dairy Farm of the Year by the Michigan State University Department of Animal Science. The award, presented annually since 1958, honors farms that exemplify excellence in management, innovation and leadership within Michigan’s dairy industry.
“The Okkema family’s focus on milk quality and their implementation of innovative technologies have made De Grins Oer Dairy a model for the dairy industry,” said Cathy Ernst, chair of the MSU Department of Animal Science. “Their dedication to consumer and youth education programs, as well as their willingness to open their farm for research and Extension activities, sets them apart. We are thrilled to recognize their achievements.”
From humble beginnings to a thriving operation
De Grins Oer Dairy — which translates from Frisian as “Over the Border Dairy” — was founded in 1999 by Tjerk and Ramona Okkema. Their journey began with a shared passion for dairy farming and a leap of faith.
Ramona, who grew up on a dairy farm in New Hampshire, met Tjerk, a native of the Netherlands and a lifelong dairy farmer, through a 4-H exchange program. After working together in the Netherlands, the couple immigrated to Michigan to build their own farm from the ground up.
Over the past two decades, the Okkemas have transformed their modest beginnings into a modern, efficient operation. Today, the farm milks about 690 cows three times daily in a 40-stall rotary parlor and grows crops on 1,800 acres.
The herd produces an impressive rolling average of 32,230 pounds of milk, with 4.0% fat and 3.0% protein, and maintains an average somatic cell count of 49,000 — well below state averages.
Innovation and teamwork drive success
At De Grins Oer Dairy, cutting-edge technology meets a strong foundation of family collaboration. Advanced systems, such as automated post-dip teat spray robots and ear-tag monitors that track eating and activity patterns, help detect health concerns early and improve efficiency. But the farm’s success is equally rooted in the expertise and dedication of its team.
Each member of the Okkema family plays a vital role. Tjerk oversees the farm’s overall direction, while Ramona manages administrative tasks. Their daughter Evelyn leads animal care and herd health as the farm’s herdsperson, implementing protocols that ensure consistent, high-quality care.
Aaron Damveld, Evelyn’s husband, oversees crop production and feed management, while Cora Okkema contributes her experience in herd management. Dirk-Thomas Okkema connects the farm to the broader community through social media and outreach efforts.
“Their ability to integrate innovation with teamwork and expertise is what makes De Grins Oer Dairy stand out,” Ernst said. “It’s a true family effort.”
Investing in people and animals
The Okkemas’ commitment to excellence extends beyond their family. De Grins Oer Dairy employs about 15 staff members, who receive comprehensive training in processes, equipment and herd management. The farm also collaborates with the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) and MSU Extension to ensure continuous improvement.
Under Evelyn’s leadership, the farm has implemented updated protocols for colostrum handling and calf care, resulting in healthier animals and reduced mortality rates. Quarterly meetings with a management team of advisers help the farm analyze performance and identify areas for growth.
“Our focus is on creating a culture of learning and responsibility,” Evelyn said. “By investing in both people and animals, we’re building a foundation for long-term success.”
Bridging the gap between farm, community
De Grins Oer Dairy is more than a business. It’s a bridge between the agricultural industry and the public. The farm has hosted MSU Extension’s Breakfast on the Farm events in 2014 and 2023, welcoming thousands of visitors to learn about modern dairy practices. The Okkemas also open their farm to researchers and educators, fostering transparency and trust.
“Being a first-generation farm and growing a highly successful business is impressive on its own,” said Doug Chapin, chair of MMPA. “Their willingness to welcome the community and researchers onto their farm builds understanding and trust, creating a bridge between dairy producers and the public.”
The family’s outreach efforts are an extension of their values. Tjerk has served as a district delegate for MMPA, while Ramona has been active with the Mecosta County Farm Bureau. Evelyn judges dairy conformation competitions, and Cora and Dirk-Thomas hold leadership roles in agricultural organizations.
Legacy of excellence
The 2026 Dairy Farm of the Year award is the latest in a long list of accolades for De Grins Oer Dairy. The farm has earned consecutive MMPA Gold Milk Quality awards, National Dairy Quality awards and the MMPA Roy G. Chapin Milk Quality Excellence Award.
They have also been inducted into the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame and achieved Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program verification.
“The Okkema family and De Grins Oer Dairy exemplify the standards for MSU’s Dairy Farm of the Year Award through their exceptional herd management and deep dedication to serving their industry and their local community,” said Miriam Weber Nielsen, chair of the award selection committee. “Their consistent focus on the details drives the herd’s impressive milk quality and overall performance.”
Source: MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources