The BC Farm Women’s Network is all about helping to educate the public and promote awareness of agriculture and it’s future.
BCFWN vice-president, and Louis Creek resident, Brenda Jones, says the group has been around for many years, with members from all over the province sharing information and ideas.
The BC Farm Women’s Network is dedicated to farm families. They come together in friendship and purpose to advance agricultural education, to provide a forum for farm women to network, and to speak with an integrated voice.
Both Jones and area member Kim Fennell are currently getting the word out to farm women in the North Thompson Valley that the BCFWN Fall Seminar and AGM will be hosted in Barriere on Sept. 13 and 14, at the Lion’s Hall.
“We would like to invite people to attend and take part,” said the pair.
The annual event begins on Thursday, Sept. 12, with a meet-and-greet for all seminar registrants at the Station House Restaurant in Barriere, from 6 to 8 p.m.
On Friday, Sept. 13, there is a bus tour from Barriere to Little Fort. Stops along the way will include Little Fort Herefords, Rainer Dairy Farm and Abattoir, the Mitchell Cattle Company, and the new North Thompson Agriplex.
The group will also be visiting Ted’s Trout Farm, and the “Earthship” in Darfield, a home built with the most environmentally conscious options available to the homeowner.
After the tour, participants will have some time to themselves to relax or visit with friends, and then everyone will gather at the Lion’s Hall for a delicious supper, the AGM, and a little entertainment.
Saturday morning, it’s back to the Lion’s Hall for a day of interesting speakers. Kevin Van Damme, a local Conservation Officer, will discuss what is going on with area wildlife and the interactions of the wildlife with the farming community. He will offer tips on how to reduce and prevent confrontations with predators.
Joann Fox from the Invasive Weed Council will present an overview on using goats as weed management tools, and the latest invasive weeds to be watching out for.
Reg Stewart from the Farm and Ranch Safety and Health Association (FARSHA), will speak on farm safety, red tape, and discuss the fact that WCB is now doing random farm inspections.
There will also be a few other facilitators presenting information, but they had not been confirmed as of press time.
Saturday night there will be another enjoyable meal, as well as a live band for those who would like to dance.
“Kim and I are extremely excited to be hosting this event, and having the opportunity to show you why we love living in this valley,” said Jones.
Jones is quoted on the BCFWN website as saying, “I believe in the power of women, and that through our determination we will, together, be able to implement positive changes for our agriculture communities. The thing I enjoy most about being a member of BCFWN is spending time with women who have a deep understanding of the dedication required to be a farm woman, and the joy which can be found in our daily lives.”
BCFWN accomplishments include: a $250 scholarship to BCFWN members’ children, ongoing financial support for members attending various agricultural seminars, media exposure via articles in farm journals and press releases, an educational presence at agricultural fairs and conventions, and publication of their own quarterly newsletter. You can find out more by going to: http://www.bcfwn.100mile.com
For more information on the upcoming seminars, or to register, contact Brenda Jones at 250-672-9737, or email: bjlouiscreek5@gmail.com, or call Kim Fennel at 250-320-7689.