Pat Brown, of the Waterloo-Wellington National Farmers Union wants Wellington North to be there when it hands out its first Sustainable Farmer of the Year Award.
Brown, along with local president Ron Weber, were at council March 1 to invite council to the event at the Elora Legion on March 26.
Brown had earlier sent a letter to council asking to make a short presentation about the event, which will see one farmer from the Waterloo Wellington area honoured.
“I’m here to invite you to an exciting event at the Elora Legion,” Brown said.
He described the traits of a sustainable farmer as a person who:
– cares for the land in the short term, but also to leave the soil healthy and fertile for the next generation by using good farming practices,
– who puts his or her best effort into raising livestock in the most humane way as possible,
– who sets a strong example in working with nature to preserve wetlands, natural treed areas, and a willingness to work with local conservation people,
– being an asset to the community, supporting local businesses and neighbours,
“These are just a few of the traits which make a sustainable farmer,” Brown said.
He said there are many such people in our area.
Brown added two such individuals from Wellington North are among those nominated for this year’s award.
“Our judges will have a difficult decision.”
He said the NFU?has put much effort into getting youth involved, as he noted arts students from the Erin high school designed the award.
He said the meal will be catered by the food school of Centre Wellington, an innovative program at Centre Wellington District High School where students have the opportunity to work with chef Chris Jess.
“This school is renowned for its support of local farmers and their produce.”
As he made the plug for councils to join them at the presentation, he asked if council would be willing to support sponsoring 10 tickets for young farmers to enjoy a night out.
“I know many young farmers in my area, and I’m sure you know just as many in yours.”
Councillor Ross Chaulk did not think the cost of the tickets would “break the bank”.
Other councillors had no objection to the idea.
Matusinec suggested getting the tickets and work on distributing them.
Council subsequently approved purchase of the 10 tickets purchase at $15 each.
