Grainswest - Fall 2025

Fall 2025 Grains West 38 Tips for first-time farmers Farmers are never short on advice. There’s always someone with a take on the weather, market trends or the best place for a good cup of coffee. But nothing resonates more with young farmers than hearing from a fellow farmer who’s been through it themselves and is willing to share their story. Three young but established Alberta Grains’ delegates share their insights on starting a farming career, along with practical tips for making it a success. CamMacFarquhar Cremona, Alberta Region 2 I worked on our family farm throughout high school and university and have now been farming full-time for six years. I’m the fifth generation on our family farm where we grow barley, canola, peas and wheat with a focus on pedigreed seed production. I love farming because it provides the ability to build something for yourself and your family, and, of course, the lifestyle that comes along with that. There’s no denying farming is hard work, but once you find a rhythm, you can also find a flexibility that other careers don’t offer. The best advice I can offer new farmers is to take the big risks early in your career. It’s a lot easier to pay off expensive land and infrastructure when you make these investments early in your career. Big investments may seem stressful, especially if you have a family or employees, but the risk is easier to take and learn from at a younger age. I’d also recommend young farmers be smart about their debt load. I know I just suggested taking risks, but make sure the risk is a smart one. Use debt as a tool but use it wisely. A new combine might feel great, but the ability to buy a neighbour’s quarter-section when the opportunity arises feels even better. The best resources for new or young farmers are other farmers, especially those willing to pass down knowledge and experience. Never limit yourself to friends and family only, because unbiased opinions can be valuable. A peer group is also a helpful way to learn, connect and share. I wish someone had told me that patience pays off when I started farming. As young farmers, we tend to want to grow as fast and as big as possible, but that takes its toll both physically and mentally. I’ve learned that working to get the most out of your operation can be more satisfying than being bigger than your neighbour. In time, the opportunity to grow will come, you just need to be patient. FEATURE