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Pemdale Farms Receives Award in Recognition of Environmental Stewardship
BFO was pleased to announce Jackie and Steven Pemberton of Pemdale Farms located in Inkerman, Ontario, as the 2021 recipient of The Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA). The award is sponsored by the RBC Royal Bank and was announced at BFO’s 59th annual general meeting. Located in Dundas County, the Pembertons have developed their farming strategies successfully by incorporating research and innovation to further the sustainability of their operation, as well as actively engaging with the community around them. Jackie and Steven have demonstrated their commitment to the environment by focusing on development of research, effective nutrient management, and caring for waterways.
Making decisions based on science has always been integral in the environmental management of the Pembertons’ farm. While incorporating simple, routine practices such as planting cover crops, fencing waterways, and participating in the Environmental Farm Plan, Pemdale Farms has also taken an active role in many research projects to further sustainability and innovation within the industry. Some examples of this research include: projects with Carleton University focusing on agriculture adaptation to climate change; an international research project analyzing the genetics of various crops and their effects on biodiversity; a manure storage design research project conducted with the Canadian government, agriculture and university groups – to name a few.
“Jacqueline and Steven are exemplary members of the community, and their dedication to environmental stewardship is having an impact throughout Eastern Ontario and beyond,” says Brendan Jacobs, Program Coordinator, ALUS Ontario East. “It is through fostering these relationships that new perspectives can emerge, leading to effective and lasting stewardship activities.”
As leaders in the agricultural community, the Pembertons are heavily involved with agricultural and stewardship programs and education, promoting clean-water strategies and nutrient management. In addition, they continue to be active in their local associations and committees, including the Dundas Federation of Agriculture and Dundas Cattlemen’s Association. Jackie is also a current director on the Ontario Federation of Agriculture Board of Directors and holds the position of liaison with BFO.
BFO is currently accepting and welcoming nominations for the 2022 Environmental Stewardship Award. Deadline to submit is July 1 each year, and the application/nominations form can be found on the BFO website under Services/Awards. OB