International Farmers Day: From Tradition to Innovation

Blanchard, Michigan: Embracing Tradition and Innovation in Dairy Farming

 

In celebration of International Farmers Day, we had the pleasure of speaking with Cora Okkema, a dairy farmer with deep roots in both the United States and the Netherlands. At just 30 years old, Cora is part of her family's dairy farm in Blanchard, Michigan, while carving out her own path in the industry. With a mix of tradition, innovation, and a passion for animal care, Cora's story sheds light on the challenges and rewards of modern-day farming.

 

From the Netherlands to Michigan: A Family Legacy

“My name is Cora Okkema, and I’m proud to be a part of De Grins Oer Dairy,” she begins, reflecting on her family’s journey. “We moved from the Netherlands to the U.S. in 1999, and for the past 25 years, we’ve been building our dairy farm here.” The farm currently milks around 750 cows and manages about 1,600 acres of land, primarily growing corn and alfalfa to feed their cattle.

In addition to the family farm, Cora has recently started her own venture, raising heifers for the home farm. “Farming is in my blood. It’s not just a job, it’s a lifestyle. And while farming today is vastly different from when my parents started, the values remain the same: care for the land and care for the animals.”

 

 

Overcoming Challenges with Innovation

Farming today comes with unique challenges, and Cora doesn’t shy away from addressing them. “Young farmers face steep startup costs and limited access to affordable land. It’s nearly impossible to break into farming without connections or substantial capital.”

 

To stay competitive, Cora relies on technological solutions, many of which come from Zuidberg. “We’ve integrated a variety of Zuidberg products, like front lift systems and PTOs, into our daily operations. These tools save time and reduce fuel consumption, which is crucial during busy seasons like haying. With Zuidberg’s systems, our tractors work harder for us, helping with mowing, raking, and baling.”

 

 

Staying Competitive with High-Quality Production

Cora’s family farm sets itself apart by producing high-quality milk. “We received the Top Quality Award from the Michigan Milk Producers Association in 2023, thanks to our commitment to low somatic cell counts and excellent animal care.”

 

Cora credits her father, Tjerk, with instilling the values of precision and diligence that lead to this success. “Maintaining high-quality milk involves more than just milking. We focus on cow comfort, health, and working closely with our employees to ensure everything is done right.”

 

 

The Role of Mechanization in Modern Farming

Mechanization has become an integral part of modern farming, and for Cora, Zuidberg’s technology plays a key role in her farm’s success. “Our daily operations would be impossible without mechanized equipment. We use Zuidberg front lift systems and PTOs regularly, whether it's for feeding the cows or moving large loads of feed. These systems ensure our equipment runs smoothly and lasts longer.”

 

Zuidberg’s products have also allowed Cora to operate more sustainably. “We’ve seen significant fuel savings using their PTOs, without sacrificing performance. For us, it’s all about efficiency and safety. Zuidberg's equipment helps us achieve both.”

 

Advice for the Next Generation of Farmers

For young people interested in agriculture, Cora offers practical advice. “If you want to get into farming, you need to be committed and open to learning. Start by getting hands-on experience at a farm. There are so many aspects of farming that are routine, but within that routine, there are countless opportunities to build your skills and ask questions.”

 

She also emphasizes the growing role of technology in farming. “You don’t have to be a farmer to be involved in agriculture. There are career opportunities in equipment repair, milking parlor technology, and other technical fields that support farm operations. Companies like Zuidberg are leading the way with innovations in mechanization, creating jobs that support farmers in crucial ways.”

 

Looking Forward: The Future of Farming

Cora is optimistic about the future of agriculture. “Consumers are looking for locally sourced products, and that trend is reshaping how farmers market their goods. Here in Michigan, stores are increasingly promoting locally grown products, which strengthens the bond between farmers and consumers.”

 

When asked what gives her hope for the future, Cora says, “Farming isn’t going anywhere. We’re part of a community that constantly strives to improve, not out of dissatisfaction, but from a desire to discover new possibilities. Every day, we try to be just a little bit better than the day before, and that mindset will drive the future of farming.”

 

Pride in Tradition and Innovation

Cora is proud of the legacy her family has built, and she hopes to pass that legacy on to future generations. “I grew up watching my dad work with the cows, and that’s something I want to pass on. There’s a world of possibility in farming, and it all comes back to how we care for the land and our animals.”

 

For Cora, farming represents a perfect balance between tradition and innovation. By combining the wisdom of generations with cutting-edge technology from companies like Zuidberg, she ensures that her farm will continue to thrive, no matter what challenges lie ahead.