Abbotsford, BC (March 15, 2019) – Egg producers and vegetable growers James and Cammy Lockwood of Lockwood Farms in Cobble Hill were named the 2019 BC & Yukon Outstanding Young Farmers at a ceremony in Abbotsford, March 12th.
James Lockwood grew up in a wholesale ornamental nursery but was on his way to a career with the RCMP when he and Cammy decided to grow a few vegetables for themselves. They also bought three hens to produce their own eggs. They were instantly hooked.
In 2011, together with James’ father, Barry, they formed Lockwood Farms, initially with 399 laying hens and a few rows of vegetables which they sold at the Duncan Farmers Market. With the help of four employees and several WWOOFERS (Willing Workers on Organic Farms) they now intensively crop two acres of vegetables which they sell at nearby farmers markets and to local restaurants. They now have 4,250 free-range layers in a state-of-the-art aviary system. It is the first Canadian layer flock to include Black Soldier Fly in its diet.
“Insects are a very natural part of a hen’s diet, yet conventional feed has not included insect protein,” the Lockwood’s note. “We believe this is the way of the future and are so excited to be pioneering this feed in our industry.”
The Lockwood’s employ organic farming methods but are not certified organic, saying “local” has become more important to people than “organic.” They note that selling at farmers’ markets helps them determine what products to grow and puts them close enough to their customers to answer any questions about their practices.
The B.C.’s Region of Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers Program were pleased to honour two couples at their 2019 Regional Event. The finalists recognized were:
– Ray and Tracey Bredenhof- Bredenhof Farms, Abbotsford
– James & Cammy Lockwood-Lockwood Farms, Cobble Hill
Celebrating 39 years, Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers’ program is an annual competition to recognize farmers that exemplify excellence in their profession and promote the tremendous contribution of agriculture. Open to participants 18 to 39 years of age, making the majority of income from on-farm sources, participants are selected from seven regions across Canada, with two national winners chosen each year. The program is sponsored nationally by CIBC, John Deere, Bayer, La Coop fédérée and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and supported nationally by BDO and Farm Management Canada.
Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers for 2019 will be chosen at the National Event in Fredericton, NB from December 3-8, 2019.
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For more information or a photo of James & Cammy, contact:
Carla Kaeding, Program Manager, Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers
306.896.7833 ·kaedingc@hotmail.com · www.oyfcanada.com