Succession Plan Underway for Chomiak Charolais

Succession Plan Underway for Chomiak Charolais

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Christine Chomiak delivered welcoming remarks at the 16th annual Chomiak Charolais sale in Viking on March 28.

At that time, she also laid out the succession plan that would keep the breeding business in the family. “I am proud and delighted to mention that my sister Karen and I are in the process of transitioning into leadership roles at the farm and continuing with the Chomiak Charolais breeding stock operation. Karen and I have been heavily involved for many years, really decades; with sorting, vaccinating, tagging, tattooing, Ivermectin treatment and on a few occasions, delivery.

In addition to the two of us, our sister Darlene Gillis, who is a school teacher by day, will be helping out with the paper work. Our cousin Sharon Quinn is a great help as well. The three Chomiak sisters are very excited to take on this opportunity to ensure the continuation of Chomiak Charolais on our family farm that has been operating since 1901! And, our parents John and Cathie Chomiak are delighted that their three daughters have accepted this opportunity.”

Karen Chomiak, left, and Christine Chomiak stand in front of the bulls that sold during the Chomiak Charolais sale on March 28. They offered to look after the bulls until April 30 at no cost to buyers. (Sharon Quinn/Photo)

Chomiak said 2020 marks the 27th year her parents have been breeding and providing cattle folk with excellent bulls and bred heifers. She explained that her dad had introduced top line genetics by purchasing females and sires into the herd, including Full French lineage.

The Chomiaks were volume buyers of full French stock at the Rudiger dispersal sale. The late John Rudiger was our dad’s mentor, and at the sale, he promised John Rudiger that Chomiak Charolais - in time would have a significant herd of Full French stock. Rudiger’s top Full French bull was purchased at this sale. And, along with Mongo, our half Full French already on site, the Full French influence went to work.

We have since added a couple more Full French bulls into the mix. We have observed that the newborn calves appear stronger and that the muscular disposition trait is there because of the Full French influence.”

Christine said they want to continue raising bulls and heifers that cow-calf operators and other Charolais breeders want to add to their herds. The total herd with cows calved out will reach approximately 150. Our female herd is 90 (70 cows & 20 heifers) and the rest are bulls.

Cathie are happy their daughters are taking over the reigns. “We’re confident we’re doing the right thing by giving them the opportunity. They are very smart, capable women,” stated John. They are looking forward to the new ideas and plans they have in mind for Chomiak Charolais and how they will take their farming operation to the next level and continue the legacy for generations to come.

The farm is located 16 kilometres southeast of Mundare.