Everyone interested in natural farming, gardening, animals or agriculture is welcome to show up at Family Farm Day at Horse Lake on Aug. 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
It is sponsored by the Horse Lake Community Farm Co-operative, which has preserved and managed this farm land through local memberships for 10 years.
Spokesperson Rob Diether says the co-op's annual event gives everyone a chance to see an active farm with small-scale sheep and beef production, produce gardens and other agriculture activities.
Family Farm Day offers plenty of fun and activities for children and adults, with hayrides (tractor-pulled) across the field, a teepee and a herd of sheep to check out, garden tours, a nature walk and refreshments and snacks, he notes.
"It's just a beautiful setting at the east end of Horse Lake with a beautiful view down the lake."
The nature walk takes in much of the property, including a creek teeming with birds and critters, he explains.
"We'll explore the poplar forest that is on the property, as well as the open field – people might see a badger."
Diether says the organic garden tour typically turns into a bit of an information exchange.
"Hopefully, we can impart a little knowledge of gardening ... and we always end up learning something ourselves."
Anyone who has never visited the farm is also encouraged to show up to learn about the co-op and membership, he adds.
"The heart of our project is to preserve a lakefront organic farm and pristine piece of property. We are trying to establish a bit of a model farm, and there's plenty of work to do, so we certainly need lots of help."
Family Farm Day is free to attend – although donations will be appreciated.
Folks should bring their hats to protect them from the sun. Bottled water will be available.
The co-op farm is east of 100 Mile House via Horse Lake Road for about 24 kilometres, left on Doman Road, and then one km to the farm (on the left).
Call 250-395-3580 for more information.