Canada's Outstanding Young Farmers Program (OYF) is a unique program designed to recognize farmers and farm couples who exemplify excellence in their profession.

The program was founded in 1979 by the Canadian Junior Chamber/Jay-cees and is open to farmers or couples who derive at least two-thirds of their income from farming operations.

Learn more about how to participate or nominate a young farmer.

The Ontario Region of the OYF is one of seven regional programs. Each region holds an event where local nominees are judged on specific criteria. All regional winners represent their areas at an annual national event where they compete to be named Canada's Outstanding Young Farmers. See our alumni for all our past regional and national winners.

Congratulations to Cory and Heidi Van Groningen
2012 Ontario's Outstanding Young Farmers

“Very good beef.” Three simple words can sum up the goals of the 2012 Ontario Outstanding Young Farmers, Cory and Heidi Van Groningen of Hillview Farm and VG Meats (www.vgmeats.ca) in South Western Ontario. Yet, they produce very good beef, all while involving and spending time with their family, conserving the environment, providing the best possible care to their animals, and giving back to their community and industry.

The Van Groningens were judged based on career progress; environmental and safety practices; crop and livestock production history; financial and management practices; and contributions to society.

The Van Groningens were chosen from a group of farmers including Anthony and Marj Sjaarda (Sjaarda Caprine Farms, Wyoming) and John and Meghan Snyder (Snyder’s Family Farm, Bright).

Nominated by Jack McCoubrey, the Van Groningens raise 400 beef cows and replacements on 475 acres in Haldimand and Norfolk Counties. Between themselves, Cory’s parents and three of Cory’s brothers, the operation consists of two different farm locations, an abattoir and two retail stores.

Through involvement in associations such as the Haldimand Cattlemen’s Association,  BIO and the Ontario Independent Meat Processors, the Van Groningens are continually on the leading edge of developments in the beef and meat industry. They also make a conscience effort to not only apply, but also to do research on their farms, all with the goal of producing the best quality beef. Cory and his brothers are also actively looking at ways to get locally produced foods into public sector institutions.

Interaction with their consumers is key to their success. Says Heidi, “Our consumer focus leads us to strive for consistency while maximizing quality. Consumers are a great source of encouragement for us and when they keep letting us know that the last steak they bought "was the best one they'd ever had" it lets us know that we are heading in the right direction."

Meet the other finalists:

Anthony and Marj Sjaarda, Sjaarda Caprine Farms, Wyoming
John and Meghan Snyder, Snyder's Family Farm, Bright, ON