Bruce Family Farms is located in Bridgetown, Nova Scotia, and is run by Danny Bruce and Sandy Troop. The farm has been in the family for hundreds of years–since Danny’s ancestors moved there in 1788–and they are now the 6th generation to farm this land. The farm consists of a large woodlot and about 150 acres of pasture and hay fields.

“We try to be very self-sufficient at our farm. We grow as much of the feed as possible that our animals consume, and we try to do all the work–from birthing to butchering–by ourselves,” says Danny.

At Bruce Family Farm, the main focus is on organic beef, but they produce some other smaller items.  Sandy makes jam with their organic fruit, and they grow vegetables, if the season permits. They also have a few egg-layers and grow all of the grain to feed them.

“I see it as a way to keep me alive; we’re all concerned about our health and we want a better future,” Danny explained about his reasons for choosing to farm organically. Danny had always sold drug-free beef and never wanted to spray or use chemicals, but he also saw organics as a way to generate greater farm income. Being certified allows people who don’t know the farm to be assured of their standards and “this means something to consumers,” says Danny, “particularly those with health concerns or who are chemically sensitive.”  Bruce Family Farms has been certified organic since 1996.

Despite the on-going challenges of small-scale, organic farming, Danny believes that there is definitely a future in organics and would like to see the 7th generation continue their farm. “Once more people realize what goes into food production, there will be more demand for organic food,” says Danny.