The farm’s rich history dates back to 1816, when the Itle family, immigrants from Switzerland, first settled in Loretto. The direct-to-consumer dairy business officially began in 1933, when Charles Itle, Westrick’s great-grandfather, started selling milk and formally named the enterprise Vale Wood Farms. This enduring legacy highlights decades of commitment to serving the community with fresh, local milk and dairy products, building a reputation for reliability and quality that continues to this day.

Today, Vale Wood Farms offers a full line of dairy products, available at their on-site farm store and in various local retail outlets. A distinctive feature of their operation is the continuation of home milk delivery, a traditional practice that has seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The farm utilizes refrigerated trucks to extend its delivery reach up to an hour away, often including other local goods like eggs and cheese, diversifying their offerings and enhancing customer convenience in food distribution.

Beyond their extensive product line and delivery service, Vale Wood Farms is a thriving multi-generational enterprise employing 50 full-time staff. The farm actively engages with its community through hosting various events and offering educational tours to local schools. These initiatives are crucial for teaching students about the intricate processes of the dairy industry, fostering understanding and appreciation for where their food comes from. Such outreach efforts solidify the farm’s role as a community pillar and a leader in dairy education.