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When visits are managed properly non farming groups can leave impressed with positive messages about farming and food production and understand the work involved in producing milk and other foods
children to cut the grass and feed calves – jobs which earn them some money and also help them appreciate the workings of the farm.”
Outwith the farm Carl is involved in the local Rotary Club which allows him to mix with lots of people from the local community. As a result the Loewiths speak at many service club meetings, but also host numerous visits for different groups. “We happily host visits to the farm from local groups and organisations, it is the best way to let them see and appreciate what is happening, but also to get a clear message across to them. In one week we had three foreign farmer groups as well as two local retirement homes and one school group, the following week two groups from Toronto visited the farm.
OPPOSITE TOP LEFT Ben Loewith is in charge of HR at Summitholm where he farms in partnership with his dad and uncle.
ABOVE RIGHT Facilities at Summitholm have almost doubled in the past two years.
BELOW The Loewith family keep neighbours updated via email on relevant farm on goings.
“You have to be geared up and able to deal with hosting visits and Ben spends most of his time organising or hosting tours. Managed properly non-farming groups can leave impressed with positive messages about farming and food production. It is
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vital that they understand the work involved in producing their milk and other foods so they appreciate it.”
The Loewiths also sponsor local events which help gain respect from the community. They sponsor a local music festival, Canada Day parade and fireworks as well as a small local theatre. Although it is an expense the Loewiths see it as an investment that gets them recognised in the community. “This type of activity helps keep a positive profile of farming in the local community and shows we’re putting something back in to our local area.”
For four years Summitholm with the help of local dairy farmers has been host to an open house for urban neighbours. “We had 1200 people through in three hours last year. It is an excellent way to dispel myths and get our message out,” commented Ben. “The farm does not benefit directly from the efforts, but hopefully the dairy industry will be viewed more positively and we have successfully addressed issues regarding food safety and animal welfare. “I use Twitter as a means to engage with a wide and varied audience about our farm and farming matters. We also inform neighbours by email if we are planning to spread manure, this allows them to plan
THE JOURNAL AUGUST 2015 29
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