Dircrest Farms
Dick and Judy Dirksen
Harriston, ON

Acreage: 1,000-acre crops
Livestock: 700 grain-fed veal calves
Crops: corn, soybeans, oats & winter wheat

Family plays a central role on veal farm

Family plays a central role on veal farm Ontario veal is a delicious, lean, nutrient-packed, high-quality protein that is an ideal choice for today’s healthier lifestyles – but that’s not news to Dick and Judy Dirksen.

The Dirksens, along with their three adult children, operate Dircrest Holsteins near Harriston. They have raised veal for more than 25 years and produce approximately 700 grain-fed veal calves each year. They also crop 1000 acres and provide custom work services in the area.

Originally a mixed dairy and veal farm, Judy and Dick purchased the operation from his parents in 1978. Capital upgrades required to the dairy portion of the business played only a partial role in the Dirksens’ decision to specialize in grain-fed veal in 2000; they also considered the desires of their children, all three of whom are interested and involved in the agriculture industry. Their son Scott works full-time with them and also harvests close to 500 acres of hay for sale. Son Jamie is a Farm Equipment Mechanic and daughter Lisa is an Agronomist with Cargill. Even though both are employed full-time, they help out when they are available. A true family operation like most farms in Ontario.

Sourced by Ontario Veal Association