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Canadian Dairy Expo – Calves for a Cause & Innovation in Action
In Episode #2 of the Creating Value Series, Noel travels to Ontario, Canada, to experience the Canadian Dairy Expo (CDX) and revisit the DeKlerk family farm—last featured six years ago.
The Canadian Dairy Expo is always a highlight for dairy farmers and industry leaders, and this year was no different. One of the standout features was Calves for a Cause—a charity auction where farmers donate calves to raise funds for great causes.
It was fantastic to see Agriplastics as one of the main sponsors, supporting a tradition that shows just how strong the farming community is in Ontario.
While at the Expo, Noel met with Ivan Hag, a local dairy farmer, to learn more about his farm and what drives him to succeed.
- Favourite tractor? A Fendt 818 – “cheap and good, with a variable transmission.”
- Favourite cow? A bull called Freddy from GenX that had a huge impact on his herd.
- Funniest farm memory? Accidentally tipping a loader off a silage pile the week before his wedding—a story still talked about today.
Ivan also shared insights into how technology plays a role on his farm, including activity monitoring boluses and pedometer-based heat detection systems. He continues to raise calves in single hutches for their health and ease of management, while preparing for upcoming regulation changes around group housing.
His advice to anyone entering the industry?
“If you don’t love it, don’t do it—it’s a lot of work, but if you love it, it’s the best business to be in.”
Back to the DeKlerk Family Farm – Six Years Later
Six years ago, Noel visited the DeKlerk family farm near Niagara Falls. This year, he returned to see how things had evolved.
The DeKlerks milk 90–100 cows on a quota-based system across 260 acres plus additional rented and owned land. Rather than chasing aggressive expansion, they focus on efficiency and sustainability.
From Tie Stalls to Robotic Milking
One of the most notable changes since Noel’s last visit is how robotic milking has become central to operations. Jim DeKlerk made the leap from tie stalls directly to Lely robotic milking—initially with A2 models and now upgraded to A4 systems.
Jim’s reasoning?
“There’s always one big build in your lifetime. For me, it was moving out of tie stalls into a system that gives us balance and efficiency.”
Farming for the Next Generation
Today, Jim is semi-retired, with his son Chris taking on more responsibilities. The next project on the horizon? A purpose-built heifer facility to streamline youngstock management.
Jim’s advice to new farmers is simple but powerful:
“Find a mentor to help you through the early years. And if you don’t love farming, don’t do it—it’s too much work if your heart isn’t in it.”
Final Thoughts
This trip was a reminder of why family farms are so important to the dairy industry. They combine tradition, innovation, and community values, all while preparing for the future.
A huge thank you to Ivan Hag, Jim DeKlerk, Chris, and the DeKlerk family for their hospitality and insights.