Since their father began dairy farming in 1974 with only four cows, the Brophy brothers have grown their herd to 200 milking cows, expanded their forage acreage sixfold, overcome a barn fire in 2002, which decimated their milking herd and main facility, and most recently, sprung back from a severe disease outbreak, which resulted in the death of 42 cows over nine days.

In Ontario, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) mandates that every workplace have a health and safety communication board which includes mandatory components, based on the number of employees within the employer's operation. 

Top showmanship judges look for a clean, shiny animal free of dust and dandruff. A few extra minutes in the barn each day prior to the show can achieve that look for your show animals.

In the heart of Vancouver Island's Alberni Valley, Russell and Jennifer Dyson care for their water buffalo herd at Coleman Meadows Farm. From the bustling milking parlour to the warm welcome of visitors, their passion for farming and advocacy is palpable. The couple share an unwavering dedication to Canadian agriculture, bolstered by their bonds with the unusual creatures helping them fulfill their dairy dreams.

For many, the life of a farmer sounds peaceful: living in the countryside, working outdoors, growing our food – but a scratch on that surface is going to show a much different reality.

Whether new research was presented or different management tactics were discussed, one question was consistent throughout the conference: How will this affect the longevity of a cow?

Your body is not a machine. You are not serving yourself or others well by being a workaholic. When are you going to pay attention to your physical, emotional and mental needs, and those of your spouse and family?