Okkema Family's 'De Grins Oer Dairy' Named MSU's 2026 Dairy Farm of the Year

The family-run dairy operation is recognized for its focus on milk quality, innovative technologies, and community engagement.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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De Grins Oer Dairy, founded in 1999 by Tjerk and Ramona Okkema, has been named Michigan State University's 2026 Dairy Farm of the Year. The award recognizes the Okkema family's exceptional herd management, dedication to the dairy industry, and deep community involvement. What started with just seven cows has grown into a modern, highly efficient 690-cow operation guided by the collaborative efforts of the entire Okkema family.

Why it matters

The Okkema family's success highlights the importance of innovation, attention to detail, and a shared sense of responsibility in driving excellence in the dairy industry. Their model of family-owned and -operated dairy farming serves as an inspiration for the next generation of producers.

The details

De Grins Oer Dairy, which translates from Frisian as 'Over the Border Dairy,' utilizes advanced technologies like automated post-dip teat spray robots and ear-tag monitors to enhance efficiency and animal well-being. The farm's rolling average is 32,230 pounds of milk, with 4.0% fat and 3.0% protein, and an average somatic cell count of 49,000 — well below state averages. The Okkema family's collaborative approach, with each member contributing to daily management, animal care, fieldwork, and community engagement, has been central to the farm's success.

  • De Grins Oer Dairy was founded in 1999 by Tjerk and Ramona Okkema.
  • The farm was named MSU's 2026 Dairy Farm of the Year on February 10, 2026.

The players

Tjerk Okkema

Co-founder and owner of De Grins Oer Dairy, overseeing the farm's overall direction.

Ramona Okkema

Co-founder and owner of De Grins Oer Dairy, managing the farm's administrative needs.

Evelyn Okkema-Damveld

Herdsperson at De Grins Oer Dairy, leading day-to-day animal care and herd health.

Aaron Damveld

Oversees crop production and feed management, and supports field and mechanical operations at De Grins Oer Dairy.

Miriam Weber-Nielsen

Chair of the award selection committee for MSU's Dairy Farm of the Year.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Miriam Weber-Nielsen, Chair of the award selection committee (morningagclips.com)

What’s next

The Okkema family will be honored at a special ceremony at Michigan State University in the coming months.

The takeaway

The success of De Grins Oer Dairy demonstrates that family-owned and -operated dairy farms can thrive by embracing innovation, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and deeply engaging with their local communities. The Okkema family's model serves as an inspiration for the next generation of dairy producers.