2024 Farm Family of the Year | Cody Congdon

“We had a number of great submissions come in, but the committee chose Cody as the recipient of this award because of his passion for the land, commitment to the Gelbvieh cattle breed, and his close-knit partnership with his family,” said Reeve Barb Shepherd.  

“At the heart of agriculture is family – which is the foundation that upholds our farms, nurtures our communities, and sustains life in rural Alberta. From their deep roots in farming, passed down through generations, to the hard work and dedication that has made Rocky Top Gelbvieh a respected name – both in Alberta and across the border – Cody and the Congdon family have truly embodied the qualities that we were looking for in our Farm Family recipients” 

About the Congdon Family 

The Congdon family’s roots run deep in Alberta’s farming community, and their hard work and dedication to the land have earned them recognition as Lacombe County’s 2024 Farm Family of the Year. Cody Congdon, the soft-spoken yet driven farmer behind Rocky Top Gelbvieh, stands at the helm of a thriving operation that has earned a name across North America for its excellence in breeding Gelbvieh cattle. 

“Farming has always been a part of who I am. From working alongside my dad to starting Rocky Top Gelbvieh, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the land and the cattle we raise,” said Cody. “I’m proud to carry on our family’s tradition and to keep pushing forward, improving the herd and doing what I love every day. It’s not just a job—it’s a way of life, and I’m grateful to be able to share it with my family.” 

Cody’s connection to farming began long before he was old enough to run his own operation. His parents, Dale and Cindy Congdon, passed down a rich agricultural heritage. Cindy’s father farmed near Camrose, while Dale’s family farmed outside Heisler before deciding to move their dairy operation to Lacombe County. In 1990, the Congdons moved to Lacombe County while continuing to operate the farm near Camrose. Dale initially ran Canalta Holsteins,but in 1997, he switched from dairy to beef cattle. 

“Farming has always been in Cody’s blood. It all began at an early age when he started in the Alberta 4-H Program as a member of the Nebraska 4-H Multi-club in Lacombe County. From there, Cody purchased his first 15 purebred Gelbvieh females,” recalls Dale. “From the time he bought those first 15 heifers, I knew this was his path. Watching him take over and grow Rocky Top Gelbvieh has been one of the proudest experiences of my life. He’s taken our family’s legacy and put his stamp on it.” 

The roots of Rocky Top Gelbvieh 

The Congdon family’s journey with Gelbvieh cattle began serendipitously in 2009 when Dale wintered a herd of purebred Gelbvieh open heifers for his son-in-law, Rodney. The next spring, Cody had the chance to purchase some of the wintered heifers, to which he seized the opportunity to expand his herd. Purchasing 15 heifers, he set the foundation for what would become Rocky Top Gelbvieh. 

After earning a welding ticket at Red Deer College (now known as Red Deer Polytechnic), Cody returned to his passion for agriculture full-time, working alongside his father to grow their cattle operation. Today, Rocky Top Gelbvieh boasts a herd of around 75 purebred Gelbvieh cattle, which has remained steady over the years as Cody has focused on improving the herd’s genetics. 

“Quality over quantity” is Cody’s mantra. He emphasizes genetics, working tirelessly to improve the breed’s traits while maintaining a keen eye on the market’s needs. His dedication to sourcing new genetics throughout the United States— such as Kansas, South Dakota, and North Dakota, to name a few—has been instrumental in the farm’s success. Now, Rocky Top Gelbvieh has grown to the point where they purchase genetics from the States and sell back to American producers. This commitment to continual improvement has even attracted international attention, with visitors from as far as Australia touring the Congdon family’s farm in 2023. 

“When we switched from dairy to beef cattle, it was a big decision, but seeing Cody’s passion for breeding Gelbviehs made it all worth it. It’s not just about the cattle—it’s about raising them the right way, with an eye for genetics and a heart for the land. Cody’s got that balance, and it shows in everything he does,” said Dale. 

Cody’s family shares his pride and commitment to the farm. His wife, Melissa, grew up on a commercial cattle and grain operation, where cattle came and went regularly. Life at Rocky Top Gelbvieh is vastly different—it is focused on consistency, quality, and a connection to the animals they raise. 

“Being part of Rocky Top Gelbvieh is so different from how I grew up on a commercial feedlot, but I wouldn’t have it any other way,” said Melissa. “Watching Cody’s dedication to the land, the cattle, and our family’s future has been incredible. It’s not just about raising cattle; it’s about building something we’re all proud of—something our kids will grow up around and hopefully carry on.” 

Focus on the future 

The farm itself is a testament to the family’s commitment to sustainability. Cody and Dale focus on a four-year crop rotation to maintain soil health and maximize the land’s productivity. They also manage their pastures through a rotational grazing system to maximize grass regrowth throughout summer. Pastures are cordoned off, with cattle moved every 7-10 days from one paddock to another, ensuring no one area is overgrazed. 

While Cody’s primary focus is raising purebred Gelbviehs, the Congdons also run a commercial cattle herd that crosses Gelbvieh with Angus, producing beef known for its excellent marbling and lean quality. 

Cody’s involvement in the wider Gelbvieh community is another point of pride. He regularly attends Gelbvieh conferences and conventions in the United States, staying on top of the latest trends and genetic developments. He’s also an active member of the Canadian Gelbvieh Association, advocating for the breed’s continued growth and success. He also takes the time to attend events such as the Farm Fair in Edmonton, Agribition in Regina, and other Bull Congresses throughout Alberta to exhibit offspring from the Rocky Top program.  

Closer to home, Cody and his brother-in-law collaborate every February for the annual Draft Picks Bull Sale,providing an opportunity to showcase their bulls and continue supporting the breed they are passionate about. 

Cody is proud to be a fourth-generation farmer, farming with his father and carrying a legacy that began with his grandfathers. His family is immensely proud of his work, and while Cody remains humble about his accomplishments, there is no doubt that he’s left an indelible mark on the agricultural landscape, both in Lacombe County and beyond.