ABOUT DON

I was born and raised on our family farm in Chemainus, alongside the Chemainus River, where we played as kids. I graduated from Chemainus Secondary School in 1981. After graduation, I packed my suitcase to go and see the world.I ended up working on farms and ranches in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Quebec. I met and worked for a colourful and successful group of individuals who had a great influence on who I am today. After years of shovelling snow in freezing temperatures, I knew it was time to return to the best place in the country: the Cowichan Valley.I moved back to the family farm and took over the purebred Hereford cow-calf operation. That’s when I joined the BC Cattlemen’s Association and helped with local 4-H beef clubs. I dispersed the herd just as BSE hit the cattle industry, then moved into the custom hay business, haying my farm as well as other fields in the area.After many successful years in the hay business, the market softened and it was time to do something different. I turned part of my hay fields into sweet corn. To be honest, the first year was a little scary. I had to learn how to grow and harvest the crop, how to sell it, and where to sell it.With some trial and error, advice from local dairy farmers, and support from the local community, I found my way.A couple of years ago, I tried my hand at growing early new potatoes. This was another big learning curve, but rewarding at the same time. I sold the potatoes at the Duncan, Cedar, and Chemainus farmers markets in June and July. The corn is sold at the Chemainus farmers market and at roadside stands in Chemainus and Crofton from July through the end of August.I am running for council because I see and hear that so many people are struggling to maintain the quality of life they want and deserve. To me, it is important to listen to others and speak up for those who do not feel that their voices are being heard.