It took five years from concept to construction for Don-Mair Farms Ltd. of Mount Hope, Ontario, to start utilizing a compost-bedded pack barn, but owner Aaron Smith has been pleased with the outcome. This unique barn style has changed a few management aspects of the 80-cow herd but has proven to be a profitable change for the business.

Free hot chocolate and an opportunity to view dairy cattle brings people across southern Ontario to Summit Station Dairy of Lynden. Braving the unpredictable late December weather, attendees can enjoy a free tour of the 500-cow dairy during the annual Dairy Farm Open House.

As with any legacy, it started with one cow. After the purchase of Fernhame PBL Penelope, Don and Wendy Chalack would soon acquire a dairy and buy 25 more cows, developing a business that would produce more than a dozen All-Canadian and All-American nominees, acquire three Master Breeder shields and become a household name in the North American registered dairy cattle industry.

Grounded in faith and family while investing in the future, Aletta Holsteins followed an articulate succession plan. The family now operates two dairies and has expanded to poultry and hogs as well.

While a barn fire is not something any dairy farm wants to go through, the Hofstra family has used their positive attitude and determination to build a barn for future generations.