Contact: Anthea and Darrel Archer Phone: (250) 746-4621 Email: daarcher@telus.net Website: www.fairburnfarm.bc.ca

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The diversity of activities that happens on this 130 acre farm are immense and the history that is infused in this land and the stories Darrel and Anthea have, could be fodder for a book one day. Darrel built the sawmill in 1966, when he was eighteen, and has milled lumber from dead and fallen trees on the property to build fences and barns, always ensuring there were trees left for birds and other wildlife. Their originality in choice of dairy animals came from much research and they remain the only water buffalo dairy in Canada. These buffalo were chosen in 1998 not only for their beautiful horns but because they produce rich milk that can be used to make traditional buffalo cheese, mozzarella cheese, yogurt, and ghee. Water buffalo are production animals that eat grass and vegetation that grows naturally in the Cowichan Valley. They produce milk for over 15 years and are not susceptible to many cattle diseases such as pink-eye and foot rot and therefore do not need antibiotics. The water buffalo make this a unique destination and there are plans to have educational opportunities for students of any age to learn about the herd, the dairy, and Darrel’s management philosophy.

Operating a farm is no easy feat, often owners face challenges that one would never expect. In 2002 the Archer’s were forced to have their imported herd slaughtered due to one case of BSE (mad cow disease) in Denmark and poor government policy. This was incredibly unfortunate as water buffalo have never contracted BSE and are not at high risk of getting the disease because they eat only natural forages. The financial and emotional blow to the Archer’s was enormous as they were set back seven years with no income, young calves to raise as well as a dairy and milking parlor to build. Perseverance and tenacity are difficult attributes to dispel and Darrel and Anthea were determined to have a functioning water buffalo dairy. To make this a reality, portions of their forested land was logged. Some of these areas will become pasture land for grazing that will allow for more hay to be grown for the buffalo. Currently, 45 acres are in hay, 40 acres in forest, 40 for grazing and about 5 for residential and garden use.

Kelvin Creek runs through the lowland portion of the property providing healthy riparian area and shade for fish. Douglas fir trees also cover the hillside and provide habitat for birds, deer and grouse.

There is also heritage appeal to the farm as the original farmhouse was built in 1894. Its broad verandah wraps around the southern side of the building, allowing for a sweeping view of the valley. This site is now a culinary retreat and guesthouse which you can visit. More information is available at their website.