Q. Why are European dairy producers interested in relocating to the United States?

A. Due to high production costs and scarcity of available agricultural land, many families have found it necessary to relocate their operations where expansion is more affordable and the opportunity to grow one's business is available. The population density of the Netherlands is more than three times greater than Indiana, Michigan, or Ohio. Find out more facts about the Netherlands.

Q. Does Vreba-Hoff Dairy Development own all the projects they build?

A. No. The family that contracts with Vreba-Hoff Dairy Development to build a dairy owns and operates their own farm. Vreba-Hoff is committed to providing each family with assistance when requested.
Vreba-Hoff owns the real estate and buildings of about 4 farms that are leased to the family operating the dairy. The leases are structured as a lease to purchase contract.

Q. How many projects has Vreba-Hoff Dairy Development brokered?

A. As of January 1, 2004, Vreba-Hoff Dairy Development has brokered a total of 57 projects. Forty-one projects are operational. Sixteen projects are currently under development.

Q. Do the European families receive incentive monies or low interest loans from their respective governments or the United States government to begin their projects?

A. No. The families from other countries sell their assets held in their countries to raise the capital required to build a new project. Additional financing is obtained through banks in the United States at market interest rates. Read letter from the Royal Netherlands Embassy.

Q. Where are Vreba-Hoff Dairy Development's projects located?

A. Vreba-Hoff Dairy Development has developed dairies in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. Vreba-Hoff Dairy Development may expand into other states in the future.

Q. How do producers work with local crop growers?

A. A win-win relationship between local crop growers and dairymen is fostered so that each will receive benefits by working together. For example, the dairyman will be assured of a consistent high-quality feed supply, while the crop grower receives the following benefits:

• Availability of manure for fertilization of the cropland
• Reduction in drying and transportation costs of the crop