EDMONTON, AB (November 10, 2018) – At the 50th annual BMO Farm Family Awards on Saturday, November 10, Northlands and BMO were pleased to recognize 18 family-run farming operations throughout Alberta for their outstanding contributions to agriculture and their community.

“Northlands is proud to recognize these farm families who are working hard to make a difference in their community and the agriculture industry,” said Gordon Wilson, President, Northlands. “These families have all shown tremendous pride and commitment for their business and their community. Northlands salutes all 18 winning farming operations and thanks them for their continued dedication to the agriculture industry in Alberta.”

“BMO has a long standing commitment to the agriculture industry, and for many years, the BMO Farm Family
Awards have recognized the leading business and environmental practices of Alberta’s farmers and ranchers,” said Vanessa Laroque, Regional Vice President, Business Banking, Alberta North Community. “We’re proud to honour the leadership of these families in the agriculture sector and their unmatched support of the Alberta
economy.”

The following families are recipients of the 2018 BMO Farm Family Awards and will receive a commemorative gate sign signifying their accomplishment:

County  and Award Recipient 

• Athabasca County Kelly & Anna Olson
• Big Lakes County Dwayne & Chris Pollack
• Brazeau County Vant & Ethel Hayes
• County of Grande Prairie Eugene & Ruth Slette
• County of Minburn Larry & Tracy Rudolf
• County of Northern Lights Ken & Lynne & Bryan & Dyla Kover
• Flagstaff County Roger & Linda Johnson
• Lac Ste. Anne County Donald & Joyce Drews
• Lamont County Rudy & Theresa Warawa
• Leduc County Johan & Riekje Ter Borgh
• Municipal District of Bonnyville Murray & Linda Pikowicz
• Municipal District of Fairview John & Heather Kerschbaumer
• Municipal District of Wainwright Ken & Doris Ford
• Parkland County Tony & Sue Kirkland & Hazel Dandeneau
• Smoky Lake County Barry, Frank & Emilee Feniak
• Sturgeon County Phillip & Norma Soetaert
• Westlock County Terry & Roseanna Sheehan
• Woodlands County Robin & Charlene Hagman

About the BMO Farm Family Awards: 

Since its launch in 1969, farm families from northern and central Alberta communities have been recognized as the recipients of the BMO Farm Family Award. The Northern and Central Agricultural Service Boards select outstanding families who best represent values of the family farm within their rural community. The award honours both their farming business practices and community involvement. Winners receive a commemorative gate sign and are honoured at the BMO Farm Family Awards Gala. Northlands is deeply rooted in the community and is poised to undertake a remarkable transformation. As Canada’s largest agricultural society, Northlands has cultivated the knowledge and experience to bring people together, spark interest and shine a light on Alberta’s agricultural industry. Northlands will foster an appreciation for the industry and give insight into the journey from gate to plate through educational programs, special events and the province’s culinary/food distribution channels. For more information, please visit northlands.com. For more information: Mackenzie Parish Event and Communication Specialist, Northlands Office: 780-471-8103 Mobile: 780-266-2567