Business Spotlight

It is almost the most wonderful time of the year - Christmas!  Wes and Joy Shackleton always have been passionate about Christmas! To showcase their passion for Christmas, they have created an entire business around providing gorgeous Christmas trees for all in the community to enjoy.  From the beginning, their business vision was to take their LOVE for Christmas and their Christmas tree cutting tradition, with their grandchildren, and provide others within their community the opportunity to have this passion and tradition too.

Shackleton Farm Fresh Trees initiated in 2008, when Wes and Joy planted their first seedling trees, their dream was planted. Fast-forward to 2017, allowing time for the trees to grow and the business to develop, the dream came to life and the first tree was sold. By keeping in check that family traditions are important, the Shackleton’s grew their business, undoubtably, and they doubled their sales in the first two weeks of the following year.

This small, 100% family owned and operated business strives to make every customer happy. Allowing each customer to choose, cut and carry out their very own Christmas tree, creating a unique experience that families look forward to repeating year after year. “It is great to see, talk and learn about each visitor’s Christmas traditions. We always enjoy seeing our returning community customers but are always overjoyed to see the smiling faces of other customers that travel from places like Drumheller, Two Hills, Millet, and even Calgary to experience Shackelton Farm Fresh Trees.” said Wes Shackleton.

These long-time residents of Lacombe County, located near Clive, continue to grow their business by creating an environment that people want to be in, like adding hidden photo props in the trees. A hidden bench onsite provides a great photo opportunity, a rest option while choosing your perfect tree, or a wonderful spot to enjoy the outdoors. Or better yet, the Shackleton’s just recently added a Red 1940 Chevrolet 4300 Truck, the box is loaded with a beautiful tree just waiting for the perfect picture!

We invite you to come check out this gorgeous tree farm in Lacombe County!  Shackleton Farm Fresh Trees is located on Township Road 41-2 and Range Road 24-3, northeast of Clive. The business will be open November 23 until December 23. Start a new family tradition by joining the Shackleton family this holiday season! Every tree is the same price, regardless of height.  If you are not looking for a tree, they also have beautiful hand-made fresh bow wreaths and table centers too!

Facebook: facebook.com/shackletonfarmfreshtrees
Instagram: Instagram.com/shackletonfarmfreshtrees
Website: www.shackletonfarmfreshtrees.ca

In a world of increasing food uncertainty, Lacombe County growers are leading the charge in adopting innovative practices to produce food for Western Canada. Employing over 100 talented individuals, Doef’s Greenhouses is a remarkable example of a successful, cutting-edge, local horticultural operation in Lacombe County. The company is well-known across the province for its Alberta-grown peppers, cucumbers, eggplants, and leafy greens.

Doef’s Greenhouses is located east of Gull Lake in Lacombe County. The family business was originally started by Joe and Helen Doef in 1969 as a small greenhouse operation. Today, the company is primarily owned by Eric Doef, Paul Doef, and Phil Visscher, second generation owners and operators.   

The company has continued to expand, leveraging new opportunities in the market as they arise. Since 2020, Doef’s Greenhouses has tripled in size, with currently 37 acres of land being used as a greenhouse, with the potential to grow into another 26 acres at its new west location.

Doef’s Greenhouses is the largest bell pepper and eggplant producer in the prairie provinces. Each year, the company produces approximately 18 million bell peppers, 4 million long English cucumbers, 12 million mini cucumbers, 1 million eggplant, and 70,000 heads of lettuce!

The company has partnered with a local energy company which provides natural gas from local gas wells. Natural gas is used to feed engines on the property, which produces electricity, heat, and carbon dioxide – all three of which are used in the greenhouses to grow the plants!  Doef’s Greenhouses uses a robust heating, irrigation, and plant care system to successfully manage their crops and ensure quality products for its customers. Doef’s staff are trained to provide plant care and maintenance in the hot greenhouse setting.

“Being able to produce and sell healthy and fresh vegetables is very rewarding,” said Eric Doef, “We sell some of our produce at directly local farmers markets and we really appreciate the interactions with our amazing customers!”

Doef’s Greenhouses is partnered with Gull Valley Greenhouses, also in Lacombe County, to sell their fresh produce to various grocery stores and farmers markets under the brand Pik-N-Pak Produce and Lacombe Fresh. Their products, along with quality products from other local artisans, can also be found at their unique and famous self-serve store attached to their Pik-N-Pak Produce packing warehouse, located just east of the Summer Village of Gull Lake.

The company has a wholesale marketing partnership with a group of fellow Southern Alberta greenhouse growers under the brand Big Marble Farms. The partners are also actively involved with the Alberta Greenhouse Growers Association.

Doef’s Greenhouses enjoys its strategic location in Lacombe County as a place to do business. Eric Doef commented, “Lacombe County is agriculture-focused and there are a lot of great businesses and neighbours that have deep roots in the area.” 

Facebook: @doefsgreenhouses

Twitter: @doefs

Instagram: @doefsgreenhouses        

If you are looking for high quality, locally grown seeds for your bird feeder, keep Sunflower Valley Farms in mind! Sunflower Valley Farms produces a variety of seed crops for the wild bird seed market while also providing the public an opportunity to visit and appreciate the gorgeous sunflower blooms! The farm is owned and operated by Kole, June, and Kevin Lundie, and is located a few minutes east of Lacombe, on Range Road 26-0 and Township Road 41-0, in Lacombe County!

Kole Lundie’s family has farmed these lands for over 100 years! Since 2020, Kole has been in search of new agricultural opportunities and researched the benefits of growing bird seed crops such as sunflowers, flax seeds, and canary seeds. This ultimately led to the birth of Sunflower Valley Farms!

The addition in crop species helps Kole increase his farm’s crop diversity and provides more options for crop rotations. Kole rotates the areas used for sunflowers and will not use the same site for another 4-5 years. This means every year, the location of the sunflower patch changes. The farm will continue to grow their traditional crops such as malt barley, canola, and peas; though Kole is looking to expand the number of acres dedicated to the bird seed crops. The business is also in search of more land for future expansion.

Sunflower Valley Farms’ products can be found at the Gull Lake Honey Company, Ellis Bird Farm, and Alix Home Hardware.

In addition to growing crops for the commercial market, Sunflower Valley Farms also features an agri-tourism side where visitors are welcome to visit the farm in late summer while the sunflowers are blooming. This gives the visitors an opportunity to take Instagram-worthy photos while learning about and appreciating the importance of agriculture to our society.

Sunflower Valley Farms also leverages the generosity of their amazing visitors to raise funds for local charities such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lacombe and District, Saving Grace Animal Society, and the Lacombe Food Bank. The business looks to continue expanding its agri-tourism offerings through additional events and activities that can also continue to contribute positively to the local community.

Kole noted that Lacombe County is an excellent place to do business, especially as it pertains to agricultural endeavors. He believes that Lacombe County is the best county in Alberta for agri-tourism opportunities and development due to our diverse landscapes, strong family farm-oriented agriculture industry, and collaboration between various partners to foster a strong rural connection.

Kole Lundie is passionate about sustainable agricultural practices and is the chairperson for ALUS Lacombe County, which strives to provide ecosystem services for farmers. He continues to use his business and platform to spread awareness on where food comes from to foster greater public appreciation for agricultural and nature systems.

Check Sunflower Valley Farms out on social media!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sunflowervalleyfarms/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunflowervalleyfarms/?hl=en

Produce lovers are in for a treat just east of Lacombe. Billyco Junction, operated by Bil and Edie Biel, offers fruit, vegetables, and delicious homemade products from late June through October each year. Providing a country experience to others is a joy that comes with their rural location, and the Biels are happy to share it. 

Once open, their daily hours are 7 AM-8 PM, seven days a week, allowing pickers to arrive early in the morning, in the afternoon heat, or in the cool of the evening. The gardens are spread out to provide a unique experience – one that is quiet and private. While enjoying the fresh air, birds, and exercise, customers gather clean and delicious food for summer meals and winter freezers from the outstanding variety found at Billyco. 

A favorite for many regulars is ‘date night’ at the gardens. Couples can enjoy a peaceful country evening together while they select some sweet treats; the only challenge will be choosing between all the beautiful options. New this year, the gardens will also feature a u-pick flower garden which is the perfect way to round out your date night activity.  

The U-pick was established in 2010 when the Biels decided they were ready for a change. After 23 years of running a hog operation, Bill and Edie retired from that side of farm life and started planting fruit trees. Their first harvest included strawberries, raspberries, and some vegetables. In the last 13 years, they’ve expanded exponentially and now offer a large variety of fruits and vegetables, a list too long to include but is found on their website. Customers can also purchase products made with farm-grown produce like fruit pies, jams and jellies, pickled veggies, and dried herbs and flowers. You can also pick up your local raw honey and maple syrup – straight from Quebec! 

The Biels love their location in the heart of thriving Central Alberta. On day trips, they get many people from the surrounding area who might also be checking out local museums, lakes, or attractions like Ellis Bird Farm or Wolf’s Botanical. The infrastructure of paved roads out to their property means an easy commute, even for city-dwellers who want to venture out. The land, water, and weather typically cooperate to produce excellent yield and variety. 

Edie shared that one lesson they’ve learned is not to delay what you can do today—also, getting up early, which helps with the first one! They’ve also found that people genuinely love and appreciate what they do, which makes the work all the more rewarding.

Doug and Katie Roxburgh have roots in the lower mainland, where they were born and raised. After high school, they came to Alberta to pursue their post-secondary education in Agriculture at Olds College. Because starting a farm in BC was not viable, the couple decided to stay in Alberta, where they purchased their first quarter in Lacombe County. 17 years later, their first-generation farm and successful business continue to grow. 

In recent years, on-farm direct beef sales have become a more significant focus of the business. Marketing and sales of the products happen primarily through word of mouth and the online store, where customers value the ability to research the products online before purchasing. The Roxburghs work to maintain a consistent supply of beef for customers available all year. Small variety packs allow families to enjoy a wide range of cuts and beef products – even if they can’t store a large order. Katie shared that Lacombe County’s mix of urban and rural residents provides the flexibility to raise their product and remain close to a large customer base. To offer flexibility and convenience, customers can pick up their order on-farm or arrange for a delivery schedule even as far as Edmonton and Calgary.

Doug is involved with Alberta Beef Producers and the Canadian Cattle Association. He enjoys being part of the process of creating more viability for the industry, especially for younger generations. The Roxburghs both grew up in agriculture and were also heavily involved in 4H, so they understand the organization's significant impact on students. Their ongoing involvement in 4H allows them to provide a voice to steer the direction of the industry moving forward. 

As ag producers, Doug and Katie recognize that they are stewards of the land they work and the animals they raise. To this end, they use all means available to produce the highest quality end product. Manure generated by the cattle is used as fertilizer for the crops, which in turn feeds the animals. Solar-powered waterers and rotational grazing manage summer foraging. At the same time, cropland and grasslands sequester carbon – making cattle part of the solution rather than the problem. 

FOLLOW THEM ONLINE:

Facebook: facebook.com/DunRiteStockandStables
Twitter: twitter.com/DunRiteSS
Instagram: instagram.com/dunritess/

Website: https://dunritestockandstables.com/

The Topping family moved to Lacombe County in 2015 with no intention of farming. Most of their 153 acres were rented at the time for cattle from nearby operations, and they were focused on running their business in Sylvan Lake. 

Fast-forward a few years, two unregistered, bottle-fed baby goats quickly became a herd of 40+ registered goats and Key Hill Farm was born. Next came the sheep, another small ruminant, and finally, the Highlands. Lauren always had her sights set on Highland cattle, drawn to their docile personalities, so their addition to the farm was inevitable. Lastly, the first Babydoll rams were imported from South Dakota in the summer of 2022. 

They now breed and sell registered Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Highland Cattle, Babydoll sheep, and Maremma Sheepdogs. With the Nigerian Dwarf Goats, performance programs around milk testing, classifying, and showing help them take steps to ensure that each generation born on their farm is an improvement from the last. This results in the highest quality of animals possible. Helping them achieve this goal is the fact that they are one of only 6 farms in Canada on the ‘Scrapie program’ which allowed them to import Nigerian Dwarf Bucks from the US prior to the border closure to male goats March 31.

All the animal groups are run on rotating pastures which helps keep parasites down within the ruminant populations. The highland cattle take up the largest portion of the 153 acres and also appreciate rotational grazing, which is better for them and benefits the environment. 

Rising costs and market saturation are concerns facing most industries, and the Toppings have noticed the same in their business. They remain committed to breeding the highest quality animals on their farm by using the best genetics they can source. Providing a consistently excellent product allows them to maintain their market position and increase profitability.

The Toppings have learned some critical lessons in their time as farmers and can offer valuable advice; be ready for anything, educate yourself, and find an excellent vet! As prepared as you may feel, there will always be curveballs, so a healthy attitude of ‘anything can happen’ will go a long way. Education is powerful, and so much information is available through webinars, books, and mentorship. Learn everything you can to increase the likelihood of success. Vet care is essential! Find someone you trust to care for your animals - preferably one who shares your priorities and goals.

First-generation farmers, the Toppings appreciate the ability to involve their young children in the process while having the flexibility to be at home with them. The risks are substantial, and it’s anything but a 9-5 job, but the lifestyle they get to enjoy far outweighs the challenges. They also enjoy being part of the ag community, embracing the lifestyle and relationships that come with it.

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Twitter KeyHillFarm

Mae's Kitchen

My husband Dennis and I moved here from the Strathmore-Calgary area in 2011, which was our retirement plan. I lived in Mirror for a year as a child and attended the Mirror School for Grade 6, so I was familiar with the area and eager to return here. While returning to this area was something I always looked forward to, opening a restaurant was not initially part of that dream. However, Dennis and I understood that opening a cafe in Mirror would benefit our local community and provide me with a job at the same time. Rather than commuting to a job outside of Mirror, pursuing this business would provide a local service and employment opportunities for friends and neighbours. 

With an investment of $800.00 and Dennis’ encouragement to stay close to home, Mae’s Kitchen was born. We opened on February 5, 2018. The building we selected was vacant at the time. It was previously used as a restaurant, so we approached the owners. Les and Lynda Lowe offered to rent it to us for a year with the option to purchase it after that time. With the details finalized, we were on our way.  

We have been in business for five years as of February 5, 2023, and just renewed our permit for another five years. Many obstacles came our way during that time, especially through the pandemic. We were proud to make it through those years without laying off any staff, two of whom have been with us for over four years. It required us to get creative, so we tackled projects like repainting the inside of the café and creating artwork by hanging puzzles the team built.   

We enjoy being part of the business community in Mirror and have found that the community really comes together. We’ve given back through fundraising projects and donations for the Mirror Library and the annual Mirror Day festival. I serve on several different committees and prioritize getting involved wherever possible.  

We are honoured to provide the community of Mirror - serving visitors from far away and close to home - with home cooking and a friendly environment. We invite you to take the drive out to Mirror to experience our restaurant and explore our community! 

Horse in Hand Ranch

A lifetime passion for horses led Kellie Leyen to pursue an individualized equine experience for people. With inspiration from travel across North America and work experience in similar facilities, Kellie knew what was needed to do to build her dream. Owners Darryl and Kellie Leyen created this dream with Horse in Hand Ranch in June of 2012 and, after more than a decade of operation, have continued to learn and grow. Drawing people locally, from Western Canada, and beyond, Lacombe County is the ideal site. Ease of access and visibility from QEII simplifies transportation, especially for visitors.   

From the beginning, the business vision was to support people and horses, and Darryl and Kellie built their ranch to fill a need that they saw in the industry. They share a desire to create an inclusive, welcoming, and informal space that provides opportunities for anyone to try new equestrian experiences.    

The HIHR crew pride themselves on their flexibility – and willingness to meet the needs of sport-specific or breed-specific events which can range from vaulting to equine-assisted therapy. The crew highlighted the individualized experience that a community member could share at Horse in Hand Ranch. Customers range from ‘passionate hobbyists’ to professional riders preparing for performance or competition. All are welcome, and all will feel welcome in this unique community.    

Developing more in-house programs has enhanced the coaching and training side of the business. Owner Kellie is also the head coach and teaches programming based on Foundation Horsemanship, safety, and having fun with the animals. Demand for this type of horsemanship education continues to grow, and Kellie intends to grow along with it.   

Kellie and General Manager Darren Halpin also work with other like-minded facilities in a consulting capacity to offer advice and learnings from a decade of business growth. As customer needs arise, they continue to evaluate new opportunities. A willingness to diversify combined with a growth mentality allows them to stay on top of industry changes whether it's boarding or events-based facilities, they take pride in sharing their experience with others. 

The ag industry provides a space for the Leyens to express themselves and create the life they want to live. They are thankful that their customers trust them to care for their animals and love sharing their home with the community, both ‘horse and human’.   

Horse in Hand Ranch partners with the Alberta Equestrian Federation for their central Alberta events. According to their website, the “AEF is dedicated to the well-being of equines and works for the equestrian community in the province.” They also partner with Can Praxis, the leading equine-assisted therapy provider for the veteran and first responder communities. Kellie and Darren shared that both organizations focus on serving clients through support and education, providing a valuable service that is highly specialized. They are proud to contribute to groups that make a big difference in the lives of the people they serve. 

Milk & Honey Dairy

Milk & Honey Dairy has joined the long list of farms in Lacombe County that provide fresh, local food to Central Albertans. Owned and run by Marcel & Heather Wassink, Milk & Honey is home to 108 animals, including 64 milking cows.

Milk & Honey Dairy has joined the long list of farms in Lacombe County that provide fresh, local food to Central Albertans. Owned and run by Marcel & Heather Wassink, Milk & Honey is home to 108 animals, including 64 milking cows. Marcel grew up on a dairy farm in Leduc County and has tremendous pride in how he was raised. The time spent with his family, especially working with his father on the farm, helped him develop a strong work ethic and a love for the docile, curious personality of the cows. Along with his wife Heather, they began milking their first 64 cows in February 2023 at Milk & Honey Dairy. Keeping it in the family, Heather grew up on the property where the Wassinks now farm, and they look forward to developing their skills and passion for farming together.

There is plenty of room for growth in the 25,000-square-foot barn, but the plan is to go slow and steady, especially in their first few years of operation. The family also farms 400 acres between Lacombe and Ponoka County, which includes 100 acres just for feed production. Marcel appreciates the strong support for agriculture in Lacombe County and a deep understanding of the industry's importance. He also shared that the County's network of high-quality and well-maintained roads makes it easy for them to get their whole milk where it needs to be, which is typically the Saputo processing plant in Red Deer. (And having a central location certainly helps!)

The cows at Milk & Honey Dairy enjoy their modern and automated dairy facility, complete with Lely Robotics, supplied through another local business - Penner Farm Services. Milking, feeding, and even cleaning is robotic, giving the cows the freedom and comfort to eat or milk as needed, 24 hours a day. This model works very well for the animals because, unlike humans, their natural pasture-based cycle is to sleep only about four hours a day in the form of shorter naps. The agriculture industry is very family oriented, which is one of the things Marcel and Heather appreciate most about it. The ability to work where you live allows so much more time for family. Patience and flexibility are two of these essential skills for working with animals. Growing up on a dairy farm, Marcel had a good understanding of both before starting his own operation, but now has the daily opportunity to hone them and pass them on.

A lot of variety is found in agriculture, including new challenges and skills to learn daily. Marcel shared that “rarely is there a boring day in agriculture!” Some of this variety is thanks to the significant innovations in the industry. These innovations yield efficiencies for farmers that allow them to provide customers with a safer and more sustainable product than ever before, which is a huge advantage. To stay on top of these advances and other industry changes, the Wassinks know that they must continually learn. There are always ways to improve, so they prioritize participating in workshops and studies when they can. For these services, they have relied on organizations like Alberta Milk, the University of Calgary, Alberta Agriculture, and Dairy Farmers of Canada, who provide accurate and up-to-date information for producers.

Penner Farm Services

Beginning in the early 80s, First Choice Operations provided products and services for hog farmers. When Penner Farm Services purchased the company in 2002, it came with a relocation of the business to Red Deer from Manitoba. Ten years later, in 2011, they made another move that found them settling in Lacombe County to their current location in the Wild Rose Commercial Park.  

This location appealed to them because it is in the heart of central Alberta farming country, is cost-effective for business, and provides excellent access. Because Penner Farm Services has clients across the province, a facility at the intersection of QEII and Hwy 12 allows for ease of travel for customers and for staff, who are mostly local to the Lacombe area.   

In addition to supporting local people with employment, Penner Farm Services is committed to being involved with local events, organizations, and companies whenever possible. Occasionally they will also work with national organizations through an effort with the Manitoba team.  

Like many successful businesses, Penner Farm Services has turned to diversification over the years. When the hog industry took a hit, they adapted their model to become a multi-species provider. Now, in addition to hog farms, they also support poultry, dairy, and grain farms. Their products also show this diversification as you can purchase anything from boots and gloves for staff, to automatic ‘Lely' milking machines (as pictured).

Due to the increased business costs, more care has been taken to find savings that Penner Farm Services can pass on to their customers. Creative and unique solutions to the construction or renovation of barns also allow customers to benefit from more energy-efficient buildings, which results in cost savings over time. The new barn for Milk & Honey Dairy (also pictured) is a great example of the design work provided by the team.  

Another creative practice the team has begun is to share producer stories. They work with current customers to educate the public about agriculture in its many forms. You can view some of the stories in video format by visiting the company website (https://pennerfarmservice.com/). The videos also serve as a marketing tool to teach about their various products and services. This practice, among others, solidifies their role as ‘agvocates.'    

If you've never heard that term before, it refers to one who supports and champions the agriculture industry; an advocate for agriculture, and the use of the term is growing. Penner Farm Services is committed to being agvocates and do this in part by being involved with producer groups, committees, and organizations. This involvement fosters strong relationships based on a common goal to further the industry.  

In recognition of this work, their history in the community, and their innovations in technology, Penner Farm Services was recently awarded the ‘Agricultural Business of the Year' award for 2022 by the Lacombe & District Chamber of Commerce. Keep up the excellent work! 

Gull Lake Honey Company

After getting married in 2017, Lorne and Alida Prins decided they wanted to return to Lacombe County, where Lorne grew up. After living in Edmonton and Vancouver and being separated internationally for work, the two agreed they would pursue any opportunity they could find that would return them to the family farm. The trouble was, what would this opportunity ‘bee'?

At the same time, some local beekeepers that were connected to the family were downsizing their beekeeping operations into retirement. Lorne and Alida were in the right place at the right time. Although the Prins had no background or knowledge in beekeeping, they jumped at the opportunity and have never looked back.

This spring marked the 5th year of business for Gull Lake Honey, and they've grown to 2000 mature colonies and hope to have up to 800 colonies to be used for spring stock replacement. This number of colonies will allow them to produce several hundred barrels of honey and a few thousand pounds of beeswax this season – if mother nature cooperates! Coming out of winter, not all the mature colonies will survive to continue with the honey production, which means stock replacement is required. By growing nucleus colonies rather than purchasing them, Lorne and Alida can keep greater control over the process to ensure the health and strength of their greatest asset.

The primary business for Gull Lake Honey comes from their commercial-scale apiary. As members of the Honey Producers Co-operative, most of the honey they produce is sold in bulk to Bee-maid in Spruce Grove, then packaged and retailed under that label across North America. Not the type of people to put all their bees in one hive, the Prins opened a farm store in 2020 where they sell some of their products and other locally sourced goods. If you've ever dreamed about pouring fresh, warm honey from a tap into your own container from home, you can also experience that at the farm store. The bees might sleep during the winter, but that doesn't mean nothing is happening - families and school groups can participate in educational tours and candle-making activities all winter long. The store is open all year, and you can even attend an occasional market on-site featuring lots of local vendors!

The next step in diversification is to develop a queen breeding program to both satisfy their internal need for stock replacement and to sell queens and colonies to other producers and hobbyist beekeepers in the area. From a honey producer to a bee supplier!

As new beekeepers, Lorne and Alida are keen to learn while also contributing to their new agricultural community. To that end, Lorne now sits as Vice Chair of the Alberta Beekeepers Commission and has recently joined the board of AgSafe Alberta.

Their words of advice come straight from the most significant lessons they've learned in the last four years; there isn't one way to get the job done, be willing to ask for help and then learn as much as you can from those who are more experienced. That's pretty great advice for any industry or situation, don't you agree?

Follow them online:

Website: https://the-gull-lake-honey-company.square.site/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GullLakeHoney/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gulllakehoney

Hop to It

Hops are a complex plant that when harvested and processed, are used to make beer. With the number of craft breweries in Alberta growing significantly over the last 5 years, more farmers are getting into the market by growing hops. The Bjarnasons were one of the first and after 5 years in operation remain one of the longest-running hops farms in the province.

After Shayne & Jenelle purchased their acreage east of Lacombe, they began dreaming about how they could make the land work for them. With 25 acres to spare, surely there would be a crop they could grow on their land. With a passion for the craft beer industry and Jenelle's certification as level 1 agronomist the couple began their growing adventure and aptly named their business ‘Hop to It' where they grow local, quality hops. The varieties grown are Cascade, Centennial, Mt. Hood, Northern Brewer, Columbus, Willamette – all with different features and tastes.

The Bjarnasons have learned that patience is key and that growing hops is of a labor of love. The plants take 3-5 years to reach maturity and 7-10 years to provide a return on investment. Part of the reason it takes so long for plants to reach maturity is that their taproots grow as far as 20 feet down into the ground! This means that when they're at their full height there is as much plant above ground as there are roots underground. Each year after harvest the plants get cut down and by the next harvest, they've grown back up to the top of the 18-foot trellis.

The weather adds an interesting element as well, because hops like warmer weather but require a lot of water. When the dugout is full it's not an issue but in drier years as we've experienced recently, it can present a challenge. As a new industry and a specialty farm, it can be next to impossible to insure a hops crop. There is a lot to learn so the other farmers in the province work together to grow awareness and share knowledge.

To simplify the sharing of knowledge, the Bjarnasons have been members of the Alberta Hop Producers Association (AHPA) since opening in 2018. Jenelle is currently the Treasurer and works with a great group of people both on the board and on committees to move the industry ahead. They also plan some events, with the next one coming up on November 5th. The Alberta Freshtival will be held at the Red Deer location of Cilantro and Chive as a tap takeover featuring beers from Alberta craft breweries – all using AHPA member hops.

Hop to It supplies hops to both Blindman Brewing in Lacombe and Hawktail in Rimbey so if you've been a customer with either of those businesses you may have already enjoyed the fruits of Shayne and Jenelle's labor. These breweries and others will join together for the November event and if you're a craft beer enthusiast, it is not to be missed.

Shayne and Jenelle shared that Lacombe County has been a great place to start their new venture. Neighbours and friends are always willing to help, which is of huge benefit when beginning something new. They love meeting new people in brewing, hop farming and ag industries and equally enjoy touring folks around their operation. You can't help but get excited about hops after visiting with them and learning about this incredible plant!

Koornneef Farms

Is there anything better than the sweetness of a freshly picked strawberry? Mike and Bev Koornneef, along with their four children, would likely answer "no." Last year, they planted four acres of berry bushes on their seven-acre property. 2022 will be the inaugural picking season for Koornneef Farms. The family relocated to Lacombe in 2018 and lived in town while they patiently waited for the right property to come on the market. Four years later, they are literally 'living the dream' as they develop the property and build the farm.

It doesn't take long to realize how important community is to Mike and Bev. When they tell the story of how they got to where they are, you'll hear about family members who do everything from consulting to weeding; Friends and relatives who come from far and wide to help establish the farm, offer marketing support and perform quality control. You can't successfully run a berry business without some serious taste-testing! They mentioned more than once that they would not have been able to accomplish what they have in such a short time without the tremendous support they've received, and their gratitude shines through.

Mike and Bev both developed a love of berries and farming naturally. Mike grew up on a tender fruit farm in the Niagara region of Ontario. With over 30 years of experience growing strawberries, Mike's dad has taken on the role of crop consultant for the new farm. Bev grew up on the other side of the country in Abbotsford, BC, also well-known for its prolific fruit-growing reputation. It seemed like an easy decision to bring those childhood experiences to central Alberta with their very own strawberry farm.

On the farm, Bev takes the lead with book-keeping, marketing, and HR, while Mike focuses more on the delicate requirements of growing healthy, productive plants. In addition to building their new life in the country and their new business, Mike works off the farm in an agriculture support industry. He has experienced many of the ups and downs of farm life through serving his clients, which gives him some helpful insights. Their two older children have also taken an interest in helping pick the berries - and sell them! For six weeks this summer, the family will be at some local farmer's markets, and you may be lucky enough to be served by one of the young Koornneef family members.

Mike and Bev feel they are filling a gap in the current market as there is considerable demand and desire for fresh fruit in central Alberta. While some existing u-pick operations exist, Koornneef Farms will make a significant impact; Mike hopes to harvest tens of thousands of pounds of berries this year. Consumers will have a few different opportunities to purchase and enjoy a few of those pounds. In July and August, strawberry lovers can come to the farm to pick their berries or can order ahead through the website for pre-picked berries. In addition, they will be selling off-site for a few weeks at both the Lacombe Farmer's Market (Michener Park, Thursdays from 3-6 pm (3-7 pm in the summer months)) and the Bentley Farmer's Market (Bentley Curling Rink, Saturdays from 2-4 pm).

The Koornneef's are thrilled to welcome central Alberta to their farm this summer, where they aim to provide a positive picking experience for you and your family, from parking to check out.

Follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/koornneeffarms OR on their website at www.KoornneefFarms.com for up-to-date information and hours.

Deep Roots Farm

Located near Joffre, on the eastern side of Lacombe County, you will find Deep Roots Farm. This is where the Visscher family grows their 30,000 garlic plants. About 7 years ago, with a small section of their land and a goal to supplement their income Mark and his wife Brenda decided to grow garlic. Since then, they've increased the crop from 3000 to 30,000 plants and sell several different varieties, depending on the year.

In 2021 they added the farm store where they sell their garlic crop along with a variety of other products including pickled garlic, dehydrated garlic, black garlic, herb mixes, rubs, and lots of local and unique goodies. It should be noted that the Visscher garlic crop is not the typical varieties that you'll find at the local market; they grow and sell a more unique selection such as Tibetan, Bogatyr, Georgian Fire, Baba Franchuk and Kostyn's Red. Through the summer you can also purchase delicious, fresh, in-season vegetables. Visitors can access the store from April through December on Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm or by appointment.

Running a business inevitably provides added benefits beyond the overall economic impact. The addition of the garlic crop and subsequent opening of the farm store have both provided a lot of opportunities to meet new people, which the Visschers particularly enjoy. Mark shared that through those interactions, the people in Lacombe County have shown themselves to be community-minded and are happy to support local.

Another benefit of growing your own food is the ability to be self-sufficient. Reducing the reliance on supply chains and focusing on local distribution is a win for the producer, and the local economy. Of course, there's also the benefit of being self-employed. The Visschers can make their own business decisions including how to steward their land. As Mark noted, building good, clean soil is particularly important to them. He has seen that more and more farmers are employing strategies such as low till practices and cover crops rather than black soil in an effort to take better care of the land.

An essential part of owning your own business is marketing it to your customer base. Mark has experienced this as well, and stated, “getting our name out there is probably the most important part of what we do on a daily basis.” If your customers don't know what you offer or where to purchase it, your business success will be precarious at best. Mark has embraced social marketing as a way to accomplish this and often posts videos on their business Facebook page Deep Roots Farm to connect with his customers.

As we move into our central Alberta spring, keep in mind that the Visschers have been hard at work on their business all winter. With a short growing season, a tremendous amount of planning is required before a crop is ready to harvest. They also spend time finding new ways to support the needs of their existing customers to both strengthen those relationships and grow the reach to new markets. These activities require time, care, and dedication which the Visschers remain committed to.

Oatway's Seed Farm

Since 1981, Oatway's Seed Farm has been growing and distributing seed from the homestead of Grant and Lois Oatway. The family purchased a farm outside of Clive in 1975 and the business is now run by son Ward, supported by his wife Lori.

Although he was exposed to the farming business after his father started in 1981, Ward initially had no intention of participating. His plan was to pursue a career in law enforcement and to that end, took criminal justice at university. Over a 25-year period, Grant Oatway hosted many international farm trainees. Inspired by this opportunity, Ward decided to participate in a similar agriculture exchange in New Zealand. He describes it as a life-changing experience, as this is when he began to change his course. While working as a summer student at the then "Alberta Agricultural Research Station" just outside Lacombe, he gained more of an appreciation for the industry; 15 years later he was still there as a full-time employee!

Fast forward a few years, and Ward has now been working full-time at Oatway's Seed Farm for the last 15 years. 2022 has brought a lot of changes, as father and founder Grant Oatway recently passed away in early February after a battle with cancer. After 20 years back on the farm learning on the job with his father Grant (and many years of prior experience and exposure), Ward is proud to carry on the tradition of the family and the legacy of his father as he forges ahead with the 30-year-old family business.

In addition to his role in the business, Ward sits on the Prairie Grains Development Council. The council's main role is to vet new seed varieties. Participating on several committees, Ward is part of the group that vote to select new strains. He also served as the president of the Alberta Seed Growers Association after spending nine years as a director.

Growing seeds is a delicate business. Some of our readers may be aware of the practice of alternating crops; a strategy that improves soil health and helps to deter pests and weeds. For you weekend growers, crop rotation is something you can implement in your own backyard garden to achieve the same results. For the specific growing that Oatway's Seed Farm undertakes, crop rotation is often a three-year cycle, requiring two full growing seasons between different crops to ensure that no cross-contamination takes place. To achieve this, they started growing yellow peas as a rotational crop. While at first, it was out of necessity, over time the peas themselves have also become a profitable crop as they gain popularity in the marketplace.

Like any industry, research and innovation have provided some significant improvements. Considering that the seed farm started in 1981, that's over 30 years of development. One important change that Ward pointed to is the addition of GPS mapping. This technology allows for more accurate planting which results in higher yields and improved business stability.

Although equipment has advanced in many ways, the Oatways do still utilize a Clipper seed cleaner that was built in the 1950s. Ward mentioned that while it may be slower, it does the same job as newer models, and works quite well!

There have also been a lot of regulation changes – most of them for the better. More oversight and stricter rules are now in place when it comes to the usage of farm chemicals. Additionally, the introduction of Alberta Environmental Farm Plans (Alberta EFP) allows farmers and producers with resources to complete a voluntary self-assessment. The assessment tool helps participants identify any potential risks to the environment and develop a plan to eliminate or improve their risk-level. It's important to note that there are also funding opportunities for producers who undertake specific sustainability projects. Information can be found on the Canadian Agricultural Partnership website.

When asked about what he'd like to teach the public about agriculture, Ward talked about the complexity of the food cycle; everything is connected! It's more than just going to the store to buy a loaf of bread. It's the farmer who grows the grain with tremendous attention to every detail; the producer who mills the flour; the company that makes the bread, and the store that sells it. Not to mention the transportation required to ship the bread and all the different jobs that a simple product like this can generate! It's so important to understand where our food comes from and the role that we play as consumers in that cycle.

It's easy to forget about some of the very practical and tangible factors that support business in communities, but Ward was quick to point out how Lacombe County has helped him, and his family run a successful operation. It can be summed up by saying, ‘infrastructure is key'. Things like road grading schedules, weed control and enforcement do not go unnoticed. For a seed grower, the fact that the county does regular ditch mowing that eliminates cross-contamination between fields is essential.

In addition, one can often find helpful information in the County News regarding agriculture and business supports.

Gull Valley Greenhouses

This year, Gull Valley Greenhouses will celebrate its 30th year of business. Phil and Carolyn Tiemstra opened the greenhouse in 1992 after settling in Lacombe County. Taking a departure from Phil's family industry of chicken farming the Tiemstras dove into beefsteak tomatoes. Since that time, they have added Bok choy, mint, beans, basil, kale, lettuce, and cucumbers.

Today the family grows 12 varieties of tomatoes, in addition to their other products. In total, they will plant approximately 60,000 plants each year which yield 1 million pounds of produce! Their expansion of crops is also thanks to their increased space. Starting with only half an acre in 1992 they are now growing on 4 and a half acres, 1.5 of which is under LED light for year-round growing.

LEDs have been used commercially for about the last decade in North America and have allowed the industry, and growers like the Tiemstras to optimize their growing time. With a very specific light spectrum, they can provide an optimal recipe for their crops, so they don't lose out on production during the darker winter months.

Other innovative solutions are the use of hydroponics, and biological pest control. A hydroponic system reduces the amount of water needed for a plan to grow. Because it is resource-friendly along with its many other benefits, most greenhouse growers are using this type of system. The Tiemstras have used different fibers such as coconut coir and more recently, Rockwool as the delivery system for the water. For biological pest control, ‘good' bugs are introduced to the environment to combat and control the ‘bad' bugs from getting out of hand. Even the tiniest creatures have a role to play!

Gull Valley Greenhouses is a family operation, with son Levi joining the business full time after he graduated. Later, when he married Carmen, she also became a member of the business team. Committed to being active within their industry and maintaining high standards, the business is a member of the Alberta Greenhouse Grower's Association and is Canadian Horticulture Council (CHC) certified.

If all this talk is making you hungry and you're looking to purchase and enjoy produce grown by the Tiemstra family, there is no shortage of options! As co-owners of Pik N Pak (along with Doef's Greenhouse), they sell their products at the self-serve store near Bentley. In addition, you've likely seen them at the Gasoline Alley Farmers Market under the brand ‘Lacombe Fresh' along with produce from Doef's. Is prepared cuisine more your style? You can enjoy everything from tomatoes to mint to Bok choy at any number of restaurants in both Calgary and Edmonton.

After 3 decades of growing vegetables, the Tiemstras have learned a thing or two, especially about being flexible with both the market and with the stresses of growing. They recognize the value in providing consumers with fresh produce and have learned that collaborating with other growers makes that task a little bit easier.

Despite the obstacles, they remain committed; “We enjoy the challenges, and it's fulfilling being able to grow and provide food for our community.”

Premium Foliars Ltd.

Enhanced Soil – Healthier Crops – Healthier Bottom Line

For those of us who aren't farmers, we've likely never spent too much time thinking about how to maintain healthy soil or ensure the success of a specific crop. But for Paul Seutter and Pat Sinclair, owners of Premium Foliars Ltd., these are the things they've built their business on.

With over 20 years of experience in the ag industry, Seutter and Sinclair established their business in 2016 and purchased their Lacombe County location a year later. There were a few key things that Paul and Pat were looking for when they purchased their space in the Wildrose Commercial Park in 2017. This location afforded them great exposure and proximity to the busy intersection of Highway 12 and the QEII, making it convenient for receiving their Canadian-made products.

Premium Foliars Ltd. is an independent supplier of agricultural products. The lineup includes Crop Aid Seed, a nutrient seed dressing; Crop Aid Plus, a soil health stimulant; Crop Aid Foliar Fertilizer, and Crop Aid Citric Acid, a water conditioner, and pH adjuster. They are distributors of these products across the province.

When it was difficult to find someone to complete research on Clubroot, it necessitated contacting the University of Alberta Department of Agriculture and Innotech Alberta, a research organization located in Vegreville, Alberta. Between these groups, a high level of research was completed through experimentation and credible reporting on the benefit of the Crop Aid Plus product. This specific product stimulates micro-organisms to reduce Clubroot spores and can be used on pastures, forage crops, cereals, pulses, and in vegetable production and additionally, increases biomass and yield, the studies determined.

Innovations like these and ongoing research within agriculture are essential to test new products' efficacy. Numerous field trials take place each year on a wide variety of crops. In most cases are overseen by agronomists and ensure that the product addresses the specific problem or concern.

While focusing on a wide variety of farming practices and serving an even broader customer demographic, Pat and Paul have learned that organization, research, and planning are essential. Combine these essentials with a dedication to the business, excellent products, and a commitment to customer service, and you've found the recipe for success.

Something consistently heard about those working in agriculture is the benefit of interacting with so many wonderful and hospitable people. Meeting with a client often means coffee around the kitchen table, sometimes with multiple generations, to discuss business challenges and new products. It's what makes the industry unique and special to be a part of.

According to Pat and Paul, these folks are the backbone of food production in Canada. They gamble each year with unknown factors such as weather, disease, insects, and crop production but do so because they're determined producers. As such, they remain committed to the health and wellness of their livestock, soil, and crops, which is where Premium Foliars Ltd. comes in.

One of the changes the two business owners have experienced is that as developments are made in ag technology, farmers are eager to understand how the changes can benefit their operations. There are ways to increase productivity, lower input costs, and improve the overall health of the soil and crops, and many farmers are implementing these practices and products.

Want to learn more? Check out Premium Foliars Ltd. in the Wildrose Commercial Park and find out if they have a product that will meet your farming needs! Call 403-786-8200 or visit their website www.premiumfoliars.ag.

Kettle Ridge Organics

When Chris and Leah Simeniuk of Kettle Ridge Organics made the decision to transition to organic grain farming in 2015, they were looking for ways to stay viable on smaller acres.

“We were looking for ways to increase the revenue of our existing acres without necessarily adding more land base. Converting to organic is more hours per acre but so are the returns.” Although the initial leap was made for financial reasons, they have since found additional motivation to stay on their path.

“Learning about cover crops and how different plants interact with the soil has been the biggest point of interest,” says Chris. “Not having access to chem or fertilizer to make a quick fix on my crop has made me have to really think and observe what is happening in my soil. I have to look at soil as an ecosystem as opposed to just a growing medium.”

To be a certified organic farm, Kettle Ridge Organics needs to follow the Canadian Organic Regime and submit to yearly audits by a certifier. In simple terms, they can't use chemicals for weed control and no synthetic fertilizers. To manage nutrient replacement, the Simeniuks utilize non-synthetic soil amendments and green manure cover crops. The green manure crop is terminated at the flowering stage. Its purpose is to provide food for the soil biology that in turn makes normally inaccessible soil nutrients available to the following cash crop.

Weed management needs to utilize several strategies. Starting with a clean seedbed is the first step, followed by harrowing just prior to crop emergence to remove weeds at the threadling stage. Ensuring the crop comes out first is critical. Harrowing in crops is also done depending on the type of weed pressure in the field. Crop rotation also plays a major part in weed management. Crops are rotated between early seeding, late seeding and fall seeding so as not to create a pattern for weeds to get established.

The Simeniuks organic journey is ever-evolving. They are currently working towards their Regenerative Organic Certification. The regenerative status looks at the farm's practices to ensure that soil and the surrounding environment are being enhanced as opposed to degraded. One particular topic Kettle Ridge Organics spends a lot of focus on is soil health. Minimizing tillage, increasing cover crop biomass, maintaining living plants as long as possible, and biodiversity all play important roles.

The couple agrees that utilizing an organic system isn't the only way to farm and that it isn't going to be a fit for everyone, but it is working for them.

“It isn't better, it isn't worse, it's just different,” says Leah. “It has helped us to remain a family farm and that is what is most important to us.”

Learn more at https://www.kettleridgeorganics.ca/ or follow them on Instagram at @kettleridgeorganics.