In the running
Debert couple nalists for farming award
A Debert couple is in the running for the title of Atlantic Outstanding Young Farmers (AOYF).
Lauchie and Jolene MacEachern of Folly River Farms run a 100-head purebred Holstein operation and manage 350 acres of cropland.
The MacEacherns and a couple from Mactaquac, N.B., are finalists in this year’s contest and will be celebrated at the AOYF banquet in Moncton on March 10.
The Atlantic winner will be announced at that event.
The MacEacherns purchased the established farm after working with the owner for seven years. They introduced new technology to the farm, invested in infrastructure, enhanced the quality of their forage, all while increasing production by 20 per cent.
Judges appreciated the couple’s strong work ethic, lean approach to management, and measured growth strategies.
By maximizing animal health and nutrition programs and carefully managing debt, the MacEacherns have realized an increase in revenue every year.
The couple also have three children under the age of ten and are busy community leaders. They are involved with the Central Nova Holstein Club, the National Holstein Convention Organizing Committee, the Nova Scotia Livestock Health Services Board, the Dairy Farmers of Nova Scotia Milk Committee, and Agri Futures.
The Debert couple also jointly share their time as 4-H volunteers, coaching minor hockey, and serving in executive roles with the local pre-school and School Advisory Committee.
Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers program has been recognizing young farmers between the ages of 18 and 39 since 1980.
Judges rate each entrant’s progress in the agricultural industry; environmental stewardship; production history; financial and management practices; contributions to the well-being of their community, province, and nation; financial progress; oral interviews; and a presentation by the entrants.
Farmer Credit Canada holds seven regional recognition ceremonies, including Atlantic Canada, and the winners in each region go on to a national event.
This year the national recognition event takes place in Penticton, B.C., at the end of November.
Sponsors for the Atlantic event include the Atlantic Farm Mechanization Show, Green Diamond Equipment, and the Faculty of Agriculture at the Dalhousie University.