Just outside Lewisville, Indiana, Milco Dairy Farm has become a cornerstone of the agricultural community. With 3.000 cows, 43 employees, and a family deeply committed to farming, Milco is more than a business. Its a generational story of growth, perseverance, and connection to Henry County.

FROM THE NETHERLANDS TO HENRY COUNTY

The Milco story began when Nik Niessans parents immigrated from the Netherlands in 1999. Just one year later, they began milking 1,200 cows. By 2003, the herd had grown to 2,000, and in 2017, a second location was added, expanding operations to 3.000 cows. Today, Milco continues to grow, not only because of demand for dairy, but also because more family members are choosing to stay involved in the business.

We are still expanding because more family members are staying in the business, Niessan said. The demand for milk is also there. So, if we dont do it, someone else will.

AROUND-THE-CLOCK FARMING

Dairy farming doesnt follow a 9-to-5 schedule. At Milco, the work never stops. The farm operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Cows are milked in two 12-hour shifts with scheduled breaks to clean the system. Teams of employees oversee every detail, from milking cows, to monitoring the animals as they calf, to maintaining clean, comfortable bedding for the herd.

The farms operations also highlight the importance of reliable electricity. With large ventilation fans running year-round and barns bustling with activity, Milcos energy needs are consistent, even as they shift with the seasons.

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES

While Milco has grown into a large-scale dairy farm, the family prioritizes supporting local. From working with neighboring farmers to source feed to partnering with area businesses for supplies and services, they are committed to strengthening the local economy.

We try to do as much business as possible with other local businesses, Niessan explained. We work with a lot of local farmers to feed our cattle. And like every business, they contribute through jobs and taxes that benefit the broader community.

INNOVATION AND EXPANSION

As dairy farming evolves, so does Milco. The family is currently expanding into robotic milking technology, with plans to have a barn equipped with 20 robotic milkers handling 1,200 cows by early February. This investment in innovation ensures Milco remains efficient and competitive while continuing to provide high-quality milk.

Much of their product finds its way to familiar places. Milco supplies milk directly to Kroger, including products that they transport from Michigan to meet demand.

OPEN DOORS AND OPEN MINDS

Despite its size, Milco Dairy Farm remains a family-run operation with a strong sense of hospitality. If anyone wants to visit our farm, the doors are always open, Niessan shared. The family takes pride in educating the public about modern dairy farming, especially when misconceptions arise about large farms, animal welfare, or milk quality.

For Milco, transparency and community engagement are just as important as daily operations. Their dedication helps bridge the gap between farmers and consumers, ensuring people understand not only how their food is produced, but the care and commitment behind it.

Milco Dairy Farm stands as a testament to the power of family, hard work, and community connection. Henry County REMC is proud to serve members like Milco, who not only keep our community fed but also play a vital role in keeping it strong.