A local family is among 11 selected for recognition for their contribution to agriculture and rural lifestyle.
The Ontario Plowmen’s Association announced on Aug. 18 that 11 Ontario families have been chosen to receive the 2017 BMO Ontario Farm Family Award. The families, who are being honoured for their dedication to Ontario’s agriculture sector and the rural way of life, will be formally recognized at this year’s 2017 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo in Walton (Huron County) on Sept. 23.
The family of Morely and Thelma Trask, including Warren, Gordon, Jessie and Jamie Trask are among the family’s to be honored.
The association notes the Trasks operate a generational farm. Morley has milked cows for 71 years and shown his family how to farm. He has also run multiple 4-H clubs passing on his knowledge. Thelma also has run many 4-H clubs.
“They are involved in their church, and some charity work. They are heavily involved in the community,” states a nomination form submitted on behalf of the family.
In addition to their involvement in farming, Warren and Jamie Trask are heavily involved in highland games, while Gordon is a millwright.
Morely and Themla’s daughter Brenda was the youngest Ontario Dairy Princess ever in 1974-75 and their daughter Caroline and her husband have been missionaries in Mexico for the past 18 years.
The Trask family operation includes cash cropping, milking and maple syrup. They currently have 1,500 acres, including 1,000 in the Dundalk area. They currently have 70 cattle plus calves totalling about 150 head.
