An outstanding local contributor to advancing farm animal care in Alberta was presented with an Alberta Farm Animal Care (AFAC) Award of Distinction at the recent Livestock Care Conference in Olds.
The AFAC Awards of Distinction recognize those who have made exceptional contributions in the field of livestock welfare.
These individuals or organizations work hard to advance the mandate of AFAC and the welfare of livestock in Alberta.
The Award of Distinction for Communication was presented to the East Olds Dairy Farmers group for its Breakfast on the Dairy Farm initiative.
“Each year we hand out awards to those who are driving innovation and highlighting what is advancing our industry forward – this year is no exception,” says Annemarie Pedersen, executive director of AFAC.
“The East Olds Dairy Farmers group and the Lakeland College program are true examples of what we can achieve when we work together.”
Six years ago the East Olds Dairy Farmers group, which is made up of several dairy farm families, developed the idea to host a breakfast for their community to help the public learn about what dairy farmers do.
With the support of the Southern Alberta Holstein Club and Alberta Milk the first Breakfast on the Dairy Farm event was delivered in 2013 drawing 348 people to a single location.
The initiative has carried on as an annual series, expanding to two locations hosting over 1,000 people each year.
It provides an opportunity for members of the public to connect with farmers and experience first-hand what life on a dairy farm is all about.
The Award of Distinction for Industry Leadership went to Lakeland College for its high standards and ongoing commitment to animal welfare.
