The Rural Voice, 2004-04, Page 40Consumers who object to large-scale livestock operations can opt for an alternative at Dave Lewington's farm where
not only sheep but also chickens (above) and pigs (below), are raised on pasture.
Getting to know you
A goung farmer sags selling directlg to consumers
will help overcome their distrust of farmers,
and sets out to prove it
By Elyse DeBruyn
While many young people are
wondering if they have a
future in farming, Dave
Lewington is a full-time hog and
sheep farmer by marketing, at least
partly, directly to consumers.
For three years now, the 26 -year-
old Brussels -area farmer, has been
36 THE RURAL VOICE
selling some of this farm's products
to customers who want to know
exactly where their meat is coming
from -and how it is raised before
being slaughtered. Currently he sells
five per cent of his product directly to
consumers and hopes.to build that up
over the years as he builds a loyal
customer base.
"I am selling chicken, lamb and
pork that are raised in a certain way
to people and they can ask (about)
animal welfare issues that I will be
able to answer for them," said
Lewington.
He said his involvement in directly
selling to consumers began "partly in
response to the poor farm prices." He
explained that while farm gate prices
are going down, by selling directly to
consumers both parties get a good
deal.
"Consumers get it for a good price
and know where it came from. It
makes the farmer more money and
the consumer saves and eats a
healthy product."
Lewington started selling to
consumers with a few neighbours and
family then he began sending
newsletters out to people who were
buying his products.
He said the newsletters vary with
each season and keep his customers
informed about the product they are.
eating.
"It describes the way I raise my
chickens in the pasture without any
antibiotics and chemicals," he said.
He explained that his chickens are
outside in the fresh pasture every day
which makes a difference on how
tender the meat is with Tess fat.
"There is a big difference on the
meat quality. 1 have had comments of