2008 Archives
The Harrisburg Regional Chamber and CREDC Helps Finance 24th Farm Since 2004
HARRISBURG, PA (April 1, 2008) - The Harrisburg Regional Chamber and Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (HRC/CREDC) announced today that it provided financing to John and Amanda Lapp to purchase an 80 acre existing dairy farm located in Lykens, Dauphin County, PA upon which the Lapps currently farm with a lease agreement. The project eliminates rent expense to the farm and provides the farmer the chance to build equity and stability for his farming operation.
John and Amanda Lapp relocated to the property purchased in upper Dauphin County from Northumberland County in 2004. Wishing to continue in their Amish and agricultural roots, they continued their farming history at this new location. Prior to this, John was involved in dairy farming for about 10 years. John started at this location with only 40 cows and now has 60 cows in lactation, 365 days of the year. The growth of his herd has come from breeding on the farm rather than through purchasing cows. In addition, John is grazing his herd rather than stalling them. This approach to dairy farming gives lower production per cow but provides for higher profit per cow.
HRC/CREDC provided a First Industries Agricultural loan of $200,000 in conjunction with the financing from The Gratz National Bank, and additional equity contributions. Total project costs were $508,500. The project is expected to retain 2 full-time jobs.
"It was a pleasure working with CREDC," stated Jeremy Dobbin, Agricultural Loan Assistant, Gratz National Bank. "They were fast, responsive and assisted a well-deserving farmer obtain low interest financing for his farming operation."
"It is gratifying to be able to help people from all walks of life to succeed," said Dauphin County Commissioner Jeff Haste. "This loan demonstrates the Chamber/CREDC's willingness to help all hard-working entrepreneurs with vision, whether they are businesses in downtown Harrisburg or dairy farmers on the outskirts of Gratz. As a former farmer myself, I wish the Lapps all the best."
The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), is the economic development arm of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber, and is the leading organization for promoting and performing economic development activities in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties. The group offers a variety of programs and resources to help attract, retain and expand business in the region.
The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC serves as a catalyst for promoting growth and quality of life in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry Counties by providing a unique blend of business, community and economic development and advocacy services under one roof to boost our economic vitality and livability as a region. HRC/CREDC was named Economic Development Agency of the Year by the Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA).
