Sensible Supplies
Dreamn Acres Prides Itself on Non-GMO Animal Feeds Among Other Farm Necessities
Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger
Photography Provided
On a recent weekday morning in the Nappanee countryside, the promise of spring is in the air. Hints of color are popping in the trees and through the fields, and a perfect sunrise adds a pastel-tinted glow to a cloudless blue sky.
Meanwhile, Vernon Borkholder is already the embodiment of the rise and shine philosophy. At his family enterprise, known as Dreamn Acres, even when the day is just beginning, there are situations that demand his attention. Even so, he moves seamlessly from one task to the next, all with a finely honed sense of knowledge for his profession, which spans nearly 22 years. The one constant throughout is Borkholders commitment to the practice and sale of non-GMO feeds for farm animals.
The humble origins that led to Dreamn Acres dates back to 2001, when Borkholder was first engaged in selling dewormers and horse minerals. Just a few years later, Borkholder married his bride, Rachel, and in 2008 the couple purchased a small lot near Rentown and expanded their business to include horse feed, liniments and other products. In 2013 the Borkholders moved to their current location near Nappanee. Their farmstead is humming with activity, with a thriving dairy operation, along with a new distribution center for the sales and repair of fencing, plus a broader spectrum of inventory for animal nutrition and minor health afflictions.
Weve grown the store slow, Borkholder explains with a smile. The non-GMO feeds have been a hit. The lifestyle is more my cup of tea. I really want to get it out there that all of our animal feeds are non-GMO. This is part of what he calls an elite nutrition regimen. That includes a full and diverse line of feeds, supplements and minerals that can be incorporated into an 
animals diet. There are also specialty formulas that can aid with gut issues, and other digestive woes or vitamin deficiencies. Dogs, cats, sheep, goats, hogs, chickens, cows, horses – if its an animal that can roam a farm, Dreamn Acres is almost certain to have products in stock for it. They will also work with their customers to provide delivery services, free for local buyers. Others from a longer distance are invited to call for delivery info and to obtain rates.
The introduction of fencing to the business is something that, while relatively new, has been a welcome addition to Dreamn Acres. As the success has grown, so has the Borkholder family, which now includes eight children. Several of the older children assist with the daily execution of the business, including the eldest daughter who takes on clerical tasks, while a few of the adolescents handle various errands around the property. We used to have maybe three customers a week, and now we have 10 or so a day, Borkholder says.
Late in the month of April, prospective customers will have the perfect chance to pay a visit to Dreamn Acres to see everything that the business encompasses. There will be an open house on April 27 and 28 from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., and on April 29 from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Discounts, special sales and closeout items will be stocked for perusal, and guests will be able to sample free refreshments, enter for a chance to win door prizes, and receive news regarding upcoming sales. Those who spend a minimum of $150 will also receive a complimentary door prize.
To stop by Dreamn Acres, head over to 401 2B Road on the far western edge of Nappanee, south of the railroad tracks. To learn more or to make inquiries, call 574-773-0090.
