Meet the Bent Family

Allen and Jacqueline Bent, and their four children, Jennafer, Jonathan, Alanna and Adrian, call Lawrencetown, Nova Scotia, home. The Bents bought the family farm from Allen's Dad in 1994. Since then, they've made many upgrades to their property. While they still maintain the original barn nearly 100 years later, improvements like an open concept add-on, and round-the-clock electronic monitoring ensure the comfort and health of the herd.

Jacqueline and Allen both were raised on dairy farms and they are happy to raise their children in the same tradition. All four of the kids have been involved in 4H, honing the skills they first learned helping their parents with the chores. The kids take after their parents, and they put their all in whatever they do. Just ask 10 year-old Adrian...he's captain of his hockey team and off the ice he plays a big role in the care of the calves on the farm. Family is everything to the Bents. So it should come as no surprise they’re committed to producing the same quality milk for their family as they are for their neighbours and friends.

Meet the Bishop Family

Geoff Bishop is a third generation farmer who grew up on a farm in Nova Scotia. After graduating from college, he traveled to New Zealand and England and experienced new ways to farm. But Nova Scotia beckoned him back. Geoff, his wife Jennifer, and their four children call Annapolis Royal home. It's where Geoff's father and grandfather began farming together in Nova Scotia in 1970.

This year, Geoff and Jennifer were recognized as the Atlantic Outstanding Young Farmers, an honour that doesn’t come easily. They have put a lot of thought into the upgrades they’ve made on the farm. Geoff, realizing that a premium milk product is impacted by good feed, developed a unique nutrient management plan and is enjoying great results. The family also constructed an innovative, energy-efficient dairy facility and parlour. Clearly, they take their role as stewards of their land seriously.

The Bishop family’s commitment to the farm is reflected in their commitment to the community. Jennifer, a teacher by training, started a running club for local kids, and the family makes milk donations to the local school to encourage good nutrition.