This beef farm has added conservation features as well as a diversity of products and demonstrates the value of an ecological approach to land management.
More Information: Primarily this is a beef farm, but the Feelys had to become more creative, due to the general agriculture economy, and have built a farm market, along with a market garden. The farm is unique for other reasons besides longevity; it is within the estuary of the Trent River which has significant fisheries value. Due to the fickle nature of the Trent River, the Feelys have invited the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Ministry of Highways, Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, the Rod and Gun Club and the Comox Valley Farmers Institute to enhance a portion of their farm to create a fish rearing and spawning habitat that was lacking in the lower portion of the Trent River. A walking bridge over the channel, along with informative signage will then provide an educational tool for schools. The Freelys have completed protecting a portion of land at the mouth of the river. This land was alienated from the farm when the river changed course. The project illustrates how market gardening, agri-tourism, fish and wildlife can co-exist on farms when government agencies, organizations and farmers cooperate with one another. The new roadside farm market along with an adjoining market garden, maple copses for tapping maple syrup and the educational value of the fish channel all create potential for value-added products to their beef farm. |
