3 minute read
Keeping Farming in the Family
Keeping Farming in the Family
Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser
The rolling hills of Two Hills County resemble a patchwork quilt comprised of blocks of vibrant yellow canola and lush green crops of barley, wheat and oats stitched together seamlessly and stretching out as far as the eye can see.
The beautiful landscape is the result of the efforts of producers, several of which have farmed the land for several generations. The Andrashewski family is no exception. Brent Andrashewski is a fourth generation farmer who decided to partner with his parents Jeannette and Dwayne a couple of years ago.
They say it’s an honour to farm the land that originally belonged to Dwayne’s Great Uncle Frank Andrashewski. Dwayne grew up on the farm with his three sisters. His parents are Ron and Elizabeth farmed there for many decades.
Dwayne and Jeannette lived in Viking for 25 years before making the decision to live on the family farm in 2016. They also run a canola seed business. “We saw it as a good fit,” explains Jeannette. They are Pioneer Hi-Bred Sales Representatives. Dwayne is an agronomist, and his extensive professional knowledge and experience in the science, practice and management of agriculture and agribusiness are invaluable to their operation.
Brent is also a seed representative. He represents Canterra Seeds. He is also a certified millwright and keeps busy on and off the farm year round. The business of farming and the technology used in farming has changed drastically over the years, and ultimately, what they do on the land now will affect the next generation. They are very mindful of that and believe it’s vitally important to be good stewards of the land.
They also believe it is good for people to know where their food comes from, how it’s grown, and sustainable practices.
Jeannette currently serves as Region 4 Director with the Alberta Canola Producers Commission and said they are currently looking at ways to bring agriculture back into the classroom at every grade level as part of the curriculum.
Jeannette recently returned from the Calgary Stampede where she had the opportunity to tell visitors from around the world about Alberta canola. She loves to tell the farm to food story every chance she gets and is looking forward to more opportunities to do so in the future.
Farming is also very personal and for Jeannette, Dwayne and Brent; and it is something near and dear to their hearts. Growing safe and nutritious food to help feed the world is a feeling like none other and they are more than happy to do just that.
