QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Did You Know?
The Critter Barn is going to move! On August 12, 2016 the Critter Barn planted a sign
on their new property - Future Site of the Critter Farm!
Why is the Critter Barn moving?
Safety and accessibility are concerns; parking is limited, and port-a-potties are
unpopular. Our current farm is only three acres and in the middle of a subdivision.
Simply stated, both animals and people need better space!
Where is the new property?
In Zeeland Township, the North-East section of 80th Avenue and Felch Street, take
Chicago Drive around the bend past Zeeland Hospital, then South on 80th.
How big is the new property?
It is 27 acres, nearly ten times as large as the current Critter Barn.
Are there any buildings on the property?
No, only soybeans, woods and rolling hills.
What’s included in Phase One?
Phase I includes the infrastructure: all the “pipes in the ground,” the roadways, the
parking lot for 165 cars, buses, the Welcome Center, and barns for housing all our
current animals.
Where is the Critter Barn in Building Process for Phase One?
The groundbreaking and construction will begin once we raise the funds for Phase One. Will it be like the existing Critter Barn?
The vision is to keep the same Critter Barn “atmosphere” in a friendly, safe and
educational setting. Yes, it will be different ...more land, more barns, more places
to explore. Just MORE. But very much the same in other ways. Our animals will be
there, our staff, and some of our existing buildings will be moved or taken down and
used in the construction at the new site.
Where is the Critter Barn in the Funding Process?
We received a generous donation for the purchase and gift of the land plus other gifts. We
have raised 1/3 of what is needed to break ground and build Phase One: infrastructure,
main barns, welcome center barn and outbuildings.
How will the Critter Barn raise money?
We have hired a professional firm to help the Critter Barn raise enough funds for each
phase. We call it The Barn to Farm Capital Campaign. Our intention is to build the
farm without any debt. You will hear about this quite a bit in the future!
When will the Critter Barn move?
We hope to move Fall 2017 or Winter 2018.
What will happen to the current Critter Barn buildings?
Our treasured, historic barn and outbuildings will be taken down and either rebuilt on the
new property or used in the construction of the new structures.
Where will Mary and Wally move?
The new farm will have a house like a family farm. Mary and Wally hope to live there and
other staff will live there. What’s happening at the current Critter Barn?
There’s no slow down to feeding the animals and running our daily programs. Today’s
Critter Barn continues to run and grow. Fundraising and contributions make up a
significant part of the Critter Barn’s annual budget, so we need YOUR help now to
continue until moving day.
Suggestions?
What would you like to see at the new farm? Email your ideas and comments
to [email protected].
Monthly updates beginning in October until Ribbon Cutting!
Monthly updates will be sent via email, but we are happy to send a letter to your postal
address if you request. Be certain we have your correct address! For information, visit
www.critterbarn.org
Critter Barn
9275 Adams St.,
Zeeland, MI 49464
616-748-1110