Farm families honoured in Fairview

“Farming is not just a job, it’s a way of life, and the ongoing success of the agriculture sector depends greatly on the hard work and commitment of Alberta’s farming families. It is an honour to recognize people who contribute so much to their communities and acknowledge this incredible legacy that is passed down through many generations.”

“My grandfather homesteaded here in 1915, and he asked my father to keep the farm in the family name. We are now fourth generation farmers, with my son residing on the original homestead. Continuing that family farming history was important to our ancestors and it is still important to us. We proudly display the Century Farm and Ranch plaque at our gate so that people will see, for years to come, that this was our original homestead.”

Recipients of the Century Farm and Ranch Award receive a bronze plaque to commemorate this significant milestone. A total of 47 families are being recognized across the province this year, including nine families who will be honoured in Fairview on July 28.

Since 1993, almost 1,600 families have received Century Farm and Ranch Awards.

Agriculture is the province’s largest renewable industry, with exports valued at more than $9 billion annually. There are more than 43,000 farms in Alberta, totalling 50.5 million acres.

Note: Alberta Century Farm and Ranch Award recipient families will be available for interviews and photos at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 28, 2016, at the Grande Prairie Regional College – Fairview Campus Atrium, 11235 – 98 Avenue, Fairview.

Alberta Century Farm and Ranch Award recipients being recognized at this event:

• The Balderston/Meyaard Family of Sexsmith
• The Chernuka Family of Rycroft
• The Dika Family of Rycroft
• The Dufour Family of Spirit River
• The Heck Family of Bluesky
• The Hill Family of High Prairie
• The Hudson Family of Spirit River
• The Nordstrom Family of North Star
• The Osowetski Family of Brownvale