The Grossart family has spent generations learning how to raise crops and livestock working within the unique environment of Western Manitoba.
For farmers, working it demands different approaches for different parts and patches. Some works for crops, some for livestock, some just needs to be left natural, to preserve the vulnerable landforms from erosion and degradation.
For the Grossart family, the challenges are even more intense, with their decision to farm an organic system preventing them from using many chemical-based management products, which could compensate for the mixed conditions.
“On one quarter we’ve got about . . . 20 soil types,” said Ian Grossart, who farms with his son, Zach.
“We’ve got everything from Class Two clay loam that is pretty good for grain, up to Class Six land that is on the side of the hills.”