Local farms will be part of Open Farm Days

Seven farms and other operations in Mountain View and Red Deer counties will be taking part in the fourth annual Alberta Open Farm Days agriculture and tourism promotion event next month, officials announced last week.

Scheduled for Aug. 20-21, Open Farm Days will see more than 90 participants this year, the highest number ever to take part. Events include tours of farms and on-site demonstrations.

Area farms and other operations selected for this year's Open Farm Days are Country Thyme Farm, Eagle Creek Farms and Bowden Sunmaze, Edgar Farms, High County Berries, Pearsons Berry Farm, The Farm with Good Food, The Jungle Farm.

“Alberta Open Farm Days is a collaborative, province-wide, two-day event that gives Albertans an opportunity to experience the farm and understand where their food comes from. It is a backstage pass to meet the farmer, experience Ag-tourism in Alberta and taste local foods direct from the producer,” said organizers.

“Our goal is to showcase Alberta's agriculture and tourism industry in a fun, engaging and meaningful manner to participants of all ages.”

This year's participants will include bison and cattle ranches, stables and petting zoos, guest ranches, bed and breakfasts, organic operations, alpaca, sheep, llama, goat and poultry farms, honey, fruit, vegetable, grain and U-pick farms, and corn mazes.

“Open Farm Days continues to be a big hit with thousands of Albertans, farms and ranches, producers and ag-tourism operators who take advantage of this unique opportunity to experience and celebrate rural Alberta,” said Ricardo Miranda, minister of culture and tourism.

“With so much to see and do, what better way to spend a weekend than visiting your rural neighbours?”

Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Oneil Carlier added: “Alberta has some of the finest and most innovative producers and agriculture-based businesses in the world.”