Sen. Robbins, Rep. Wilt Announce State Loan to Lakeland Dairy Farms Expansion
New Wilmington farm run by McFarland family since 1867.

Harrisburg – State Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) and state Representative Rod Wilt (R-17) today announced the approval of two state loans to help the McFarland family expand Lakeland Dairy Farms in New Wilmington.

The farm, operated by the family since 1867, currently sits on 361 acres of land in Mercer and Lawrence counties. The $600,000 in state loans will allow the family to purchase 130 acres of adjacent land to increase their feed growing and grazing capacity. The funds will also be used to purchase 300 additional cows and new equipment, enabling the farm to operate at a full capacity of 800 cows.

"Agriculture is Pennsylvania's number-one industry and plays an important role in our region," said Robbins. "Lakeland Dairy Farms has been operated by the McFarland family for six generations. They are award-winning farmers, and the expansion these loans will help pay for will allow the farm to reach its full potential and increase business with area suppliers."

The five-year loans come in amounts of $150,000 and $450,000, with an interest rate of 3.25 percent each. The family is investing $700,000 in the project.

"Pennsylvania's family farmers are part of the Commonwealth's rich heritage, and I am pleased to join Senator Robbins in announcing this state support for a family farm that been an important part of our community for well over a century," said Wilt.

The loans were approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, created by the legislature last year to fund up to $1 billion in economic development initiatives across Pennsylvania.

CONTACT: Mike Hengst (717) 787-1322

Sen. Robbins, Rep. Wilt Announce State Loan to Lakeland Dairy Farms Expansion New Wilmington farm run by McFarland family since 1867.

Sen. Robbins, Rep. Wilt Announce State Loan to Lakeland Dairy Farms Expansion
New Wilmington farm run by McFarland family since 1867.