Jackie and Steven Pemberton of Pemdale Farms, located in Inkerman, Ontario are this year’s Ontario recipient of The Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA). Located in Dundas County, the Pemberton’s have developed their farming strategies successfully by incorporating research and innovation to further the sustainability of their operation, as well as actively engaging with the community around them.
Making decisions based on science has always been integral in the environmental management of the Pemberton’s farm. While incorporating simple, routine practices such as cover crops, fencing waterways and participation in an Environmental Farm Plan (EFP), Pemdale Farms has also taken an
active role in many research projects to further sustainability and innovation within the industry. Some key examples of this research include projects with Carleton University based out of Ottawa, focusing on agriculture adaptation to climate change; an international research project analyzing the genetics of various crops and their effects on biodiversity; and a manure storage design research project conducted with the Canadian government, agriculture and university groups, to name a few.
As leaders in their agricultural community, the Pemberton’s are heavily involved with agricultural and stewardship programs and education, promoting information on clean-water strategies and nutrient management. In addition, they continue to be active in their local associations and committees, including their county Federation of Agriculture and Cattlemen’s Association. Jackie is also involved on a provincial level, acting as a current member of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) Board of Directors and holds the position of OFA’s liaison with the Beef Farmers of Ontario.
TESA is sponsored by:
Platinum Partner
Foundational Partners
