Brooks (Rural Roots Canada) – The County of Newell, Alberta is a picturesque agricultural region located about two hours southeast of Calgary. It should come as no surprise that the county and its farmers are embracing Alberta Open Farm Days like never before.

This year, the county, nestled in southeast Alberta, has seven farms showcasing its diverse agricultural richness, vibrant agri-tourism industry, and unique rural charm, making it a perfect stop for the annual celebration of local farming.

One of the newest participants this year is Niznik Ranches. A 104-year-old family farm run by Jodi Niznik and her family, she says navigating their first experience with Alberta Open Farm Days feels a bit like having a blindfold on. “We don’t really know what to expect and are just going to go with it and do our best!”

Despite the mix of excitement and nervousness, Niznik Ranches is eager to welcome everyone to the farm while providing guests with a hands-on experience that best represents the heart of their operation.

“For our first year, we’ve chosen to focus on who and what we are – cattle and crops,” says Niznik. “There will be an opportunity to tour our cattle handling system and feedlot, you can check out the cattle grazing in the field nearby and corn crops growing for winter feed. You can hop on a tractor or a combine. We also have plenty of horses ready for grooming and rides for anyone interested.”

READ MORE: Alberta Open Farm Days Offers Backstage Pass To Life On The Farm

Niznik believes regional support has played a crucial role in the success of Alberta Open Farm Days in the County of Newell. “The extra advertising and hype surrounding this year’s Open Farm Days will, I’m certain, make a difference in the year’s events,” she says. The collective efforts of local farms, businesses, and organizers have also created a sense of unity and shared purpose.

“The diversity of the city and the county working together to promote the industries and livelihood of the region is instrumental to the success in the area,” she explains. “The County of Newell has that old-time feel where communities work together supporting each other’s fundraisers, events and initiatives to enrich our youth, protect our heritage and history and continue to grow and change the world.”

The full list of participants includes:

• Bassano Dam – Saturday – 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Pre-registration is required – 403-362-1400) – Learn the importance this 110-year-old structure plays in the agricultural industry. Walk under the Bow River, check out the new Emergency Spillway & walk across the main spillway structure to have a closer look at the gates, hoists & friction wall.
• Brooks & District Museum – Saturday – 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. – This self-guided tour showcases 19 historical buildings, 23 antique tractors & close to 70 outdoor farming and oil & gas implements, encapsulating the area’s unique spirit.
• D Bar V Farms – Saturday @ 2 p.m. Take a tour of pivot irrigation & Timothy hay field & river pasture viewing with a guided tour of historical Indigenous artifacts.
• Niznik Ranches – Saturday – 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – On this 104-year-old ranch, enjoy cattle grazing grass, and appreciate the vast open spaces and incredible biodiversity of our prairies. A cattle handling system & cattle liner, board a tractor or a combine – learn how crops are planted & harvested. Bring a picnic & stay awhile!
• Old MacMillers Farm Saturday 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Country fun & old-fashioned hospitality. Visit farm animals & shop the 60-year-old grain bin filled with local handmade gifts & local produce. Grab a refreshment from the converted “Little Honky Tonk” horse trailer.
• Piston Broke Brewing Saturday 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. – Brooks’ local community hub has a family-friendly atmosphere and a culture of exploring craft beer for flavour. Bring the kids – and if you’re here for the patio – bring the dogs too! Award-winning beers & full kitchen menu – inspired by local Farmers. Tour the Brewhouse & grab some cool merch.
• White Barn Fun Farm – Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Meet & interact with Tibetan yaks, emus, alpacas, llamas, donkeys, a camel & more! Enjoy feeding & petting them & learn some facts about animals farmed in Alberta. A self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace & create a unique experience. Water & popsicles for sale- cash only & a FREE quad-pulled hay ride every hour.

*Descriptions courtesy: County of Newell

Locations can be found here: https://albertaopenfarmdays.ca/open-farm-day-planner-maps

As Alberta celebrates Local Food Week, events like Open Farm Days highlight the important role that agriculture plays in our country. For Niznik and her family, taking part in the event is about more than just showcasing their farm, it’s an opportunity to educate and inspire. “If we can teach a handful of people how important, demanding, and challenging, yet absolutely wonderful and rewarding farming is and where food comes from that will be five more in the right direction,” she says.

To learn more about Alberta Open Farm Days and find a list of farms participating, you can visit the website.