This week we're taking you to Oyster Bed Bridge, PEI, to meet Ben Versteeg, part of the next generation at Red Oak Farms—a family-run dairy rooted in strong values, innovation, and sustainability.
Ben farms alongside his parents, Pat and Judy Versteeg, with the support of his wife Maggie McCormick and their two young children. The Versteeg family made the move from Nova Scotia and established Red Oak Farms in 1998, bringing with them a rich legacy of dairy farming that continues to thrive today.
Currently, they’re milking 66 cows three times a day in a Double 6 Herringbone Parlour, with the herd housed in a free stall barn designed for both comfort and efficiency. Ben enjoys the variety of the work—from animal care to financial management—and the continual learning that dairy farming demands. “There’s always something new to master,” he says.
A proud milestone came in 2019, when Red Oak Farms received a Master Breeder Shield from Holstein Canada, a prestigious recognition of genetic excellence—made even more special because the national convention was held right here on PEI that year.
Beyond genetics, Red Oak Farms is passionate about sustainability. From improved manure management and cover cropping, to enhancing herd health through selective breeding and installing solar panels, the Versteegs are committed to farming with the future in mind.
Ben's advice to anyone thinking about dairy farming? “Be open-minded and never stop learning. There are so many knowledgeable people and organizations in this industry—you can always grow, adapt, and innovate.”
