Manitobans are invited to learn more about family farms and local food this Sunday as part of the sixth annual Open Farm Day. This announcement was made by Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn.
“There is more to know about our agriculture industry than many people realize, so I encourage all Manitobans to plan a road trip and meet one of our many dedicated and knowledgeable farm families,” said Minister Kostyshyn. “Whether you’re interested in learning more about the daily demands of running a farm, where to find the best locally made food products or just want to get out and explore rural Manitoba, Open Farm Day is the perfect opportunity.”
This year, 37 farms will participate in Open Farm Day on Sunday, Sept. 20. Visitors will meet local farmers, learn more about modern agricultural operations, and enjoy special activities and demonstrations. About five per cent of Manitobans live on a farm, making it a great opportunity for farmers to share where they live and work with those who might not otherwise have a rural connection, the minister said. The event also supports agri-tourism and creates an opportunity to market agricultural products directly to visitors, he added.
Open Farm Day is organized by the Manitoba Association of Agricultural Societies (MAAS), in partnership with the Manitoba government.
“The Manitoba Association of Agricultural Societies is pleased to have taken an active part in organizing Open Farm Day,” said Annette Young, president, MAAS. “It promises to be a fun day for adults, children and everyone in between. We encourage all to see and experience an industry that is diverse, interesting and vital to the economic well-being of our province.”
Manitoba’s first Open Farm Day took place in 2010. Last year, more than 8,000 visitors experienced agriculture first-hand at farms located across the province.
“We enjoy having visitors, families and friends come out to our ranch to see how their food is raised and the care we put into it,” said Carla Radford, co-owner of Radford Ranch, located near Roblin. “Kids who have never had a chance to ride a horse, feed a chicken or gather an egg can experience it first-hand. What we do on Open Farm Day is to show what our lives are like, in a fun and educational environment.”
For more information on Open Farm Day, including an interactive map of participating farms, visit www.openfarmday.ca or contact a local Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Development GO Office.
