DeDominicis Farm

This Delaware County Farm Enhancement Grant Award provided significant benefits to a beginning dairy farmer who is currently operating the sole surviving diary of the historic Meridale Farms. Theodore DeDominicis has had a passion for the dairy industry from a young age and is striving to build a successful dairy while also preserving a local agricultural landmark. Achieving this goal comes with its own set of challenges, as several improvements are needed to maximize operational efficiency and animal comfort. Entering the dairy industry in December of 2020 with the purchase of cattle and equipment, Mr. DeDominicis is striving toward full farm ownership. As a beginning farmer hoping to keep a farm in production and vibrant, every penny counts in this phase.

An infrastructure project under this grant enabled the replacement of a grain bin. Upgrading the grain storage has prevented significant feed losses, added self-unloading capabilities saving time every feeding, and preserved feed quality with the elimination of nuisance animals in the feed. This translates into real financial impact to the farm, with a conservative estimate of $3,000 in annual feed waste savings alone. This project has provided a much-appreciated benefit to the DeDominicis farm.

Last updated March 7, 2025