Quebec City, QC – Luc Gervais developed an early love for farming, and was recognized for this passion for dairy farming, along with his wife Kim Brunelle, when their family farm Ferme Germec Inc. was chosen as Quebec’s Outstanding Young Farmers (OYF) for 2013. Luc and Kim will represent Quebec at the national OYF event in Saskatchewan later this year.
At a young age, Luc began working with his father on Ferme Germec, a dairy farm near Hérouxville, Quebec owned at the time by his uncles. Luc went on to complete a college degree in Farming Operation Business Management while continuing to work full time on a farm. In 2001, after a stint working outside agriculture, Luc returned to Ferme Germec and three years later acquired it with his brother and cousin.
Through the years, improvements have been made on their dairy farm to expand the free stall barn, add tunnel-type ventilation and improve overall cow comfort. Milk production has increased from 10,002 to 12,239 kilograms per cow, and their herd classification is now 7 EX, 29 VG, 42 GP and 9 G.
“Luc Gervais exemplifies what draws so many of us to this industry – doing something we truly love,” says Yves Roux, chair Quebec’s Outstanding Young Farmers. “This passion for dairy farming shines through in Luc’s operation in herd productivity, continuing education and a great balance with his family.”
Luc balances his passion for keeping up with new technology with an active family life. He strives for top production in his herd and in the fields, taking courses, attending conferences and farm events. He also dedicates time to helping their three daughters with their passion, gymnastics.
Celebrating 33 years of identifying great agricultural successes, Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers’ program is an annual competition to recognize farmers that exemplify excellence in their profession and promote the tremendous contribution of agriculture. Open to participants 18 to 39 years of age, making the majority of income from on-farm sources, participants are selected from seven regions across Canada, with two national winners chosen each year. The program is sponsored nationally by CIBC, John Deere, Bayer CropScience, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and supported nationally by AdFarm and Farm Management Canada.
Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers for 2013 will be chosen at the National Event in Regina, Saskatchewan from November 12-17, 2013.