Meet Trevor Birchall, one of four farm members on Rocky View County’s Agricultural Service Board.
“The Birchall family homesteaded in Rocky View around 1909. Our farming journey began near Highway 1A and Glendale Road, later shifting to a dairy operation near Big Hill Springs Provincial Park. Today, we continue the family tradition north of Westbrook School, farming on both sides of Highway 22.
We run a cow-calf operation and cultivate hay and a variety of cereal crops – such as barley, oats, and triticale – for our cattle feed. We focus on improving the sustainability of our practices and extending the grazing season. The land is cross-fenced to facilitate rotational grazing, which supports pasture health and productivity. We stockpile native grasses for early winter grazing, then swath-graze cereal crops through late winter and into early spring.
A creek runs through our property. We've fenced it off to protect its banks and the fish habitat by keeping cattle out. My parents have always made it a priority to protect natural spaces – fencing wetlands, planting shelterbelts, and finding ways for the cows to do more of their own feeding. My family, including previous generations, has always been active in community groups and events, stepping up for causes they care about. That example has influenced how I approach both farming and my involvement in the community.
I joined the Agriculture Services Board because I wanted a seat at the table to advocate for agriculture in the County. Rocky View has a long tradition of farming and ranching, and it’s important to me that rural voices are heard and that future generations can continue to farm and ranch here.
What matters most to me in this role is sitting with Council members to discuss issues important to the County, whether provincial or municipal. I also really enjoy learning from and collaborating with fellow members and the experts who share their knowledge with us. Sharing agriculture with County residents who may not have a farming background is something I value as well.
I’ve noticed a growing interest in farming and ranching lately, influenced in part by shows like Clarkson’s Farm and Yellowstone. While it’s great to see people engaged with local food and our agricultural heritage, this interest has also brought challenges, such as more traffic and added development pressures.
As long as there’s open dialogue and farmers and ranchers have a seat at the table, I’m optimistic about the future of agriculture in the County.”
With over a century of family farming behind him, Trevor brings firsthand experience, land stewardship, and a passion for preserving agriculture to Rocky View County’s Agricultural Service Board. To learn more about the Board, visit: https://www.rockyview.ca/.../agricultural-service-board.
