In its second year, “Discover the Farm” has become a cherished event, evolving from the much-loved Open Farm Day that once graced the landscapes of Manitoba. The Bruce D. Campbell Farm and Food Discovery Centre, nestled within the University of Manitoba’s Glenlea Research Station, has been at the heart of this agricultural celebration. However, the pandemic cast a shadow, forcing the cancellation of Open Farm Day in 2020, leaving a void still unfilled.
Crystal Jorgenson, a communications specialist in the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences at the University of Manitoba, sheds light on the Center’s journey. In 2022, their dedicated staff decided to revive the open house concept, partnering with various commodity groups to birth the first “Discover the Farm” event. Jorgenson reflected on its success, saying, “It was very successful, and we decided to hold it again this fall with almost 1400 visitors attending on Sunday, September 17.”
This newfound enthusiasm surpassed the previous glory of Open Farm Day, leaving Jorgenson and the team thrilled by the overwhelming response.
But what makes an event like “Discover the Farm” resonate with farmers and ag enthusiasts? The answer lies in collaboration. The event boasts valuable partnerships with key players in the agriculture industry, including Manitoba Pork, Manitoba Chicken Producers, Manitoba Beef Farmers, Manitoba Egg Farmers, Dairy Farmers of Manitoba, and Manitoba Canola. To add to the excitement, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada joined the ranks this year. Together, they host various stations where they share valuable insights and engage visitors in fun, hands-on activities.
One of the event’s highlights is the active participation of producer members from these commodity groups, who interact with the public, offering a firsthand glimpse into modern farming practices.

Looking ahead, “Discover the Farm” has promising plans for the future. It will continue to be a beacon of agricultural education, aligning with another public outreach day called “Discover Agriculture in the City.” This annual event, held for nearly two decades in March at The Forks, showcases the interconnectedness of urban and rural life.
Yet, what impact does “Discover the Farm” leave on its visitors, and what questions do they have? The answer lies in the engaging conversations that transpire during the event. Partners report that they have enlightening discussions with attendees, who pose honest and thought-provoking questions. These exchanges offer a unique opportunity for producers to share insights into modern farming practices.
Moreover, the event encourages visitors to complete surveys, providing valuable feedback. From these responses, it’s evident that people walk away with a deeper understanding of food production, particularly in the realm of livestock care and cultivation. The ultimate goal of such outreach events is to empower individuals to seek accurate information about how Manitoba’s farmers, processors, and agri-food industry professionals work tirelessly to produce safe, high-quality food for families, communities, and people worldwide.
In the heart of Manitoba, “Discover the Farm” continues to flourish, bridging the gap between farmers and consumers, fostering understanding, and planting the seeds of knowledge about the intricate world of agriculture.
“It’s a testament to the enduring connection between those who grow our food and those who savour its bounty, nourishing our bodies and our shared appreciation for the land and its abundance,” Jorgenson said.
Many enthusiastic participants couldn’t help but express their delight at the event’s success. Kristen Matwychuk, community engagement coordinator for Manitoba Pork, delved into the significance of this event and the role of Manitoba Pork in showcasing the agricultural world to the public.
Matwychuk explained that the event allowed visitors to peer through windows into a working hog barn at the research station.
“These windows provide a glimpse into the day-to-day care and dedication involved in animal husbandry,” she said.
Alongside these educational opportunities, visitors had the chance to interact with knowledgeable volunteers who answered questions and provided insights into barn operations.
As for the types of questions asked, Matwychuk mentioned that people were primarily curious about animal welfare and well-being. They inquired about the enrichment devices used in the barn, such as toys for the animals. They sought to understand the role of technology, such as electronic sow feeders, in enhancing animal care and efficiency.

The event helps to open minds and create a space for genuine, transparent dialogue. Matwychuk’s role as Community Engagement Coordinator at Manitoba Pork involves actively engaging with the public through various events and sponsorships. From Assiniboine Park Summer Entertainment Series to charitable sponsorships, Manitoba Pork seeks to inspire consumers to ask questions and learn more about the agricultural sector.
What makes Matwychuk’s role particularly fulfilling is her dedication to developing curriculum-linked resources in collaboration with organizations like the Farm to Food Discovery Center and Agriculture in the Classroom Manitoba.
“These resources aim to provide accurate information about Manitoba’s hog sector, contributing to greater student awareness and understanding.”
Discover the Farm is more than just an event; it’s a bridge that connects urban and rural communities, fostering an appreciation for agriculture and food production. With dedicated individuals like Kristen leading the way, Manitobans can look forward to a future of shared knowledge and a deeper understanding of the farming industry. •
— By Harry Siemens