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In the early 1960's a switch was made to milk production - his father paid $300.00 for a 125 lb milk quota. He and two other farmers in the area shipped milk to Amherst, but with the Scotsburn takeover of that dairy, milk was collected by Scotsburn tankers.

When Keith's father died he left a number of debts to be paid off, so Keith took various jobs including working at the Pugwash salt mine. Since that time he has bought several farms and his holdings now total 600-700 acres with 50 Holsteins, 40 of which are milking at any one time. This produces 1000L per day or 45 Kg of butterfat. He breeds his cattle carefully with excellent results, winning many awards, including the Master Breeder Award in 1991 and a Superior Product award in 2000. Until a few years ago he attended various Agricultural Fairs.

The original barn is now replaced with a larger one onto which has been added two extensions. This complex houses the milking area, a place for calving, a section for calves, hay storage and machinery. There is separate room for a large milk tank and milking equipment. Keith is justly proud of his farm and achievements.

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Straitside farm from the air showing new barn
21st century
Pugwash, Cumberland County, Nova Scotia, Canada


Credits:
Keith Irving
Pam Gunn