Tyson Blackwater

Tara's Bio

Although, she wasn’t raised on a farm, Tara’s experience in agriculture spans over 30 years, first in dairy, then cattle and now chicken (25 years).

In 2011, Tara’s first husband lost his battle with cancer. During this difficult time, she was faced with the choice to stop farming or forge ahead. Her passion for agriculture persisted and with the encouragement from her father-in-law, the support of her church family, and neighbouring farmers she persevered.

Today, alongside her husband Darren, they farm near Devon, Alberta.

“I am very passionate of the fact that if we don’t tell our story someone else will… and we know that it won’t always be the correct story. Being out in the community has given me the opportunity to firsthand correct some of the myths around our industry. And hopefully our story gets spread just a little more with each encounter.”

Family plays a huge part in Tara’s life and when she isn’t busy volunteering at agriculture education events, hosting a farm tour, helping to create videos to counter myths, or tending to her flock, Tara spends time with her three children, their spouses and her and Darren’s nine grandchildren.

Alberta Chicken Producers 

Cheryl's Bio

Cheryl has been with Nutrients for Life since the fall of 2021. Cheryl is a retired science and biology teacher that utilized many of NFL’s materials within her own classrooms. Cheryl enjoys connecting with teachers and students across Canada.

Nutrients for Life

Emma's Bio

Emma Cross is a rancher from Tofield, Alberta, about an hour outside of Edmonton, where she raises cattle, sheep, and horses. When not out tending to her animals, Emma is passionate about connecting people with where their food comes from. Emma works in communications for the Public and Stakeholder Engagement program of the Canadian Cattle Association, which focuses on building and maintaining public trust in the way beef cattle are raised in Canada.

Canadian Cattle Association

Michelle's Bio

Michelle DuBois is 21 years old and specializes in cow-calf beef farming, with her certificate in beef production from Olds College. Michelle comes from a non agricultural background and has paved her own path into the agriculture industry and is currently working on a local beef/grain operation. She is planning to go to school this winter for business to enhance her agricultural opportunities.

Young Agrarians