LAC LA BICHE - A Lac La Biche County husband and wife who have been farming for four decades have been recognized for their family, farm and community efforts.
Dwayne and Debbie Burdek and their family recently received the BMO Farm Family Award.
The Burdek farm is in the Normandeau area, covering almost 25 square kilometres of land for livestock and farming. The Burdeks run 400 cow-calf pairs on half of their land and grow forage and grain on the other half. They operate the farm with their sons Tyler and Owen and their sons' wives Gabrielle and Makenzie.
The family officially received the recognition on Nov. 10 at the annual Farmfair International showcase at the Edmonton EXPO Centre. The couple was given this prestigious award during a celebration that included presentations, a meal, and live entertainment.
The Family Farm Award includes a decorative, outdoor gate sign that identifies the family as an award-winner. The Farm Family Award is given to recipients from north and central Alberta not only for farming business practices, but also to honour their involvement within the local community. The awards ceremony hosted 12 farm families.
“We are honoured to be recognized for our family farm,” Debbie said.
As busy as the life of a farmer can be, she says her husband and family members find time to stay active by volunteering with numerous community organizations. Debbie and Dwayne are members of the Craigend Agricultural Society, the Normandeau Community Centre, the Lac La Biche 4-H Club, as well as Lac La Biche County's Agriculture Service Board (ASB).
Even though the Bank of Montreal award sponsor does not have an outlet in the Lac La Biche area, the nominations are done locally through the ASB.
“The Agriculture Service Board of the Lac La Biche County nominates one family for the award every second year,” she said, adding that the couple was nominated in May, and received confirmation in September.
“They select a family farm that has contributed to their community through volunteering.”
