Encourage the Next Generation of Farmers by Laura Fraser, OFA Member Service Representative, Oxford and Elgin Counties Laura.fraser@ofa.on.ca Spring is here and I, for one, am es- pecially pleased to see the sun and the colours return and to embrace the warm weather and what comes with it. For some, spring signals
the return of students from post-secondary schools for the summer or just more time for kids to be on the farm and outside. With my oldest of four daughters recently turning 15, I have had the privilege of many seasons on the farm with my kids. Whether we were busy planting and harvesting our vegetable garden together; feeding and caring for calves, or helping tarp a bunk, they were (usually) happy to help and be a part of the job. We included our kids from a young age in the day-to-day chores in the house and in the barn, which gave them pride in their work and accomplishments. As they get older and begin to consider jobs and post- secondary education, I am proud that agriculture is a part of the conversations -- pride stemming from the work ethic instilled in them at a young age, from their empathy and the way they care for our animals -- and their pure love for and dedication to this lifestyle. Young farmers are the future of Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector. Fostering growth and encouraging interest
SCOTT LEWIS AUTO A name you can trust Want to keep cool this summer ? BOOK YOUR A/C MAINTENANCE WITH SCOTT LEWIS AUTO! With so many uncertainties in the agriculture world today, one thing for sure is that we need our youth to sustain a vibrant agricultural sector. We need kids joining 4-H and learning important life skills, who turn into teens who work hard and become confident leaders. So, if you know a farm kid or a kid who just loves farms, encourage them to see the rewards a career in agriculture can offer. in careers in farming is essential. Careers in agriculture are plentiful, and range from animal husbandry to technology, with many off-farm opportunities as well, which is integral to attracting more young people to agriculture.
REAL LIVING Rural Elgin Agricultural
Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor / Sales
Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Geoff@villagerpublications.com • 519-495-7177 All articles written by Geoff Rae unless otherwise indicated. Copy Editor – Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher: Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Photos, community events and article suggestions welcome.
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Page 12 Real Living • Spring 2024
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