Agriculture Awareness Award for 2009
Jen and Derek Campbell
Presentation of Agriculture Awareness Award In Recognition of Outstanding Efforts by the PEI Federation of Agriculture and Gordon and Sandra Sobey
One couple in this province who is making a difference by telling the farmers' story, and marketing the importance of local has been Jen and Derrick Campbell. They are an outstanding young farm couple with a passion for their sector.
During the past several years they have been communicating with consumers through the direct marketing of their produce. They have operated a booth at the Summerside Farm Market and for a portion of the year at the Charlottetown Farmer Market. They are proactive in keeping consumers updated on the seasonality and availability of produce. Weekly they write and distributed an e-letter to their consumers. The publication provides farm updates, their offerings at that weeks' farmers market and photos.
During the 2009 growing season, Jen and Derrick allowed the residents and tourists of this province to hear through radio the commitment required for running a successful organic family farm. Weekly through the CBC Island Morning's summer series, Karen Mair visited with the Campbells and discussed with them the business of organic farming. The interviews provided listeners with a clear understanding of the realities of modern day farming. Jen and Derrick communicated the level of knowledge, skill, work and dedication required as they shared with listeners details of the tasks involved with the planting, caring for and harvesting of crops. They painted a picture of their farming activities so vividly that non-farming individuals said that it was just like being there.
The Campbells did not shy away from controversial topics. They provided a balanced, realistic overview of farming on a small scale. They emphasized the commitment that farmers and their families have toward producing safe, high quality food and leaving a healthy environment. The 2009 growing season was an amazing time for Jen and Derrick, not only did they accomplish all that I mentioned above, but Jen also gave birth to twin boys: Ben and Jake! Possibility the next generation of farmers. Jen and Derrick Campbell has been very successful in promoting a positive image of farmers and agriculture on PEI and is a very deserving recipient of the Agriculture Awareness Award for 2009.