Grainswest - Fall 2025

Fall 2025 grainswest.com 39 Kolton Brown Nanton, Alberta Region 1 I’ve been farming full-time for a decade, growing barley, canola, lentils, peas and wheat. I’m the third generation and while my parents are still very involved, we are in the process of taking over the family farm. Farming is an amazing lifestyle, but it comes with challenges and stress. I recommend young farmers surround themselves with people who will support them, and your spouse is the most important because they need to understand the long days, late nights, work on weekends and constantly changing plans. You also must be a glass-half-full kind of a person, because life as a farmer will be even more stressful if you have a negative mindset. I believe the greatest resource for new or young farmers is the network they build. They need to surround themselves with smart, supportive people. Most farmers remember what it’s like to start out and are willing to share advice. Looking back, I wish I’d known that people are willing to help, but you must be willing to ask for it. I love farming because I can wear many hats in a single day. I have many different roles, and no day is the same. Every day has a new challenge to be solved. Melissa Damiani Rimbey, Alberta Region 3 My husband Jason and I have been farming together for 12 years and grow barley, canola, hay, oats and wheat. Jason has been able to work on the farm full-time for three years, while I still balance an off-farm job in the industry. It’s challenging to farm and have a career off the farm, but they are both rewarding. I’m able to learn new skills and bring home new ideas and opportunities that benefit the farm and our family. Farming requires risk and sacrifice, especially in the startup years, when so much depends on factors that are out of your control. But, it’s also the most rewarding and wonderful job you can have. My best advice to young farmers is to never stop learning, keep an open mind and don’t try to do it all yourself. I believe it’s best to focus on what you’re strong at or most passionate about and rely on professionals to help with the rest. It’s also important to take breaks. When you live where you work it can be hard to take a break, but take the time to care for yourself, even when things get busy. Don’t forget to stay positive and be grateful. Celebrate your wins, even the small ones, and learn from the things that don’t work out. Remember, it’s OK to ask for help, take a break and ask questions. And no matter how hard you try, Mother Nature will always have the final say.