The Chalmers family, owners of JPD Angus in Oro-Medonte, Simcoe County, were celebrated when they received the 2024 Ontario Mapleseed Pasture Award.
This recognition was presented at the Beef Farmers of Ontario Annual General Meeting Banquet in Toronto, applauding their commitment to environmental stewardship and superior pasture management.
JPD Angus, managed by the Chalmers family, manages 120 acres of pastures with 60 cow-calf pairs, 20 yearling heifers, and 20 yearling bulls. Their approach optimizes space, allowing more cow-calf pairs per acre, and maintains soil health through rest periods between grazing, ensuring their land remains productive and sustainable.
“We’ve been farming here since 2008. It’s a true family effort’, says Lori Chalmers.
Lori and her husband Darryl manage the main farm, including maternity pens and a barn, over 50 acres. Their sons, Evan, Owen, and Nolan, contribute significantly to daily operations, mechanical repairs, and other tasks.
Lori and Darryl's daughter, Michaela, and her husband, Chris Stoneman, manage an additional group of cattle on 70 acres of pastureland and actively promote the farm's herd genetics through local fall fairs and the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.
“It is a wonderful example of a beautifully manicured well-cared for farm, where the cattle get to live their best life,” shared Scott Fisher, Western Ontario Sales Manager with Mapleseed.
The award recognizes the Chalmers family's commitment to eco-friendly farming and excellent cattle care. Scott Fisher and Patricia Ellingwood commend their farm as an outstanding model of good land management and the value of rotational grazing in today's agriculture.
“It is an exciting time for rotational grazing. We are seeing an increased interest in best management practices that help bolster the bottom line while keeping environmental responsibility top of mind,” explained Patricia Ellingwood, General Manager of the Ontario Forage Council. “JPD Angus is a wonderful example of this. Congratulations on a job well done!”
People say the Chalmers' farm is a great place where cows live happily. It's a perfect example of how careful farming can be good for business and the planet. The Chalmers family shows what you can achieve with teamwork and smart farming.