The Farmer

Robin’s passion for agriculture is as deep-rooted as the crops they cultivate. From a young age, growing up in Coquitlam, BC, they were immersed in the joys of home gardening thanks to their mom. Yet, it was the summers spent at their grandparents’ farm, now known as Big Rock Ranch, that truly ignited Robin’s love for farming and the natural world. Those formative years were rich with lessons in gardening, biodiversity, conservation, and a deep-seated affection for horses.

Driven by a commitment to enhance food security, Robin is a lifelong learner who eagerly engages in conferences and courses during the off-season to continuously expand their knowledge and skills. This dedication to their craft led them to start a small egg and vegetable CSA in Squamish, which quickly evolved into a desire for their own farm.

In 2016, Robin moved to the family farm in Buffalo Creek, where they’ve been cultivating both the land and their passion ever since. Whether it’s tending to crops, nurturing animals, or exploring new agricultural techniques, Robin’s commitment to farming is unwavering and ever-evolving

 

The Farm

Nestled on 148 acres of picturesque land, Big Rock Ranch is a thriving family-run operation where Robin, along with their grandma, mom, and a delightful menagerie of animals, brings their passion for farming to life. The diverse household includes three energetic farm dogs, a playful kitten, a flock of laying hens, two lovely horses, and a busy honey bee hive.

At Big Rock Ranch, we are committed to sustainable farming practices that nurture the land and produce exceptional food. We utilize low-till methods to preserve soil health and apply generous amounts of compost and organic fertilizers to keep the soil thriving. Our farm features three large greenhouses designed to extend the growing season, a dedicated commercial greenhouse for our heirloom tomatoes, and practices like cover cropping and mulching to enhance water retention and prevent soil runoff.

 

The Products  

At Big Rock Ranch, we take pride in our commitment to organic farming principles, offering a wide range of fresh, wholesome produce. Our selection features nutrient-rich leafy greens, aromatic herbs, and a variety of root vegetables. You can also find crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, vibrant peppers, and seasonal squash. For those with a sweet tooth, we provide heritage apples, strawberries, saskatoon berries, and raspberries. Our free-range heritage chickens produce beautiful eggs, and occasionally, whole chickens are available at the South Cariboo Farmers Market. Additionally, our bees, nurtured with organic practices, create delicious honey. At Big Rock Ranch, we ensure that every product reflects our dedication to health, sustainability, and exceptional taste

 

Awards and Accomplishments

  • Voted Best Resource-Based Business from the 100 Mile House Chamber of Commerce in 2017, 2018, and 2019
  • Winners of a lifetime membership of Jean-Martin Fortier’s Market Gardener’s Master Class
  • North American Pollinator Partnership Association Farmer-Rancher Pollinator Award 2019
  • Bee Friendly Certified Farm with the North American Pollinator Partnership Association
  • Completed the environmental farm plan through the BC Ministry of Agriculture
  • Host students in the Thompson-Rivers University sustainable ranching program
  • Host a yearly Sunday Funday fundraising event (2019 it was for Big Brothers, Big Sisters)
  • Host an annual Farm to Fork long table dinner featuring local producers 
  • Work alongside our regional agrologists to support and initiate food security
  • Robin is involved with many organizations such as Young Agrarians (Regional Coodinator), The Central Cariboo Food hub (Project Coordinator), the CRD’s Agricultural Advisory Committee  (Director), and NAPPA (Bee Friendly Farming Committee (Member).