Meet Mr. David Acland by Ben


David Acland is a velvet, sheep, dairy, beef, and bee farmer. The farm boasts a 3800 hectare (9390 acre) size, with an area of 8x7 kilometers. His farm is family owned, which has been passed down since 1983. The land, however, has been tied to the Acland family since 1856. The Acland family has a long history and involves quarrying, deer culling, and most recently dairying. He is currently the president of the Local Federated Farmers in the Mid-Canterbury province. His wife is also heavily involved in welfare groups.  
 

Mr. Acland cares deeply about the welfare of his animals, and has been certified by a veterinarian to harvest velvet (the soft, pre-hardened deer antler) and eliminate any stress the stags might face during the procedure. That being said, he is starting to eliminate velveting altogether on his farm since he wishes to remove any harm regarding an animal’s welfare. He also focuses on improving the sustainability of his region by incorporating bees as pollinators and by utilizing lumber farming. Uniting these practices on his farm helps to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the air. By absorbing the carbon dioxide, these practices promote an oxygen-rich environment.

 

Throughout his life, he’s been heavily rooted in agriculture. If he had to start farming now, instead of 2007, he would still begin his operation despite current regulations. His life has been surrounded by agriculture, so it is something very familiar to him. I had asked if he had any stories from his time farming, to which he said he didn’t really have ones that stood out but said that life is just enjoyable and he is happy with how life has turned out for him. 

 

He is very proud of his community outreach and service as well. In his shop, located in the center of town, he sells wool-based items, honey, and other goods. His current industry is able to create job opportunities for the locals, whether that be in the farm or in the shop. Mr. Acland also provides schools with discussions and tours like ours to promote agricultural education. In an article published by FedsNew, Mr. Acland says he hopes to have more people engaged in agriculture. 

You can find more about him and his goods on his FaceBook, Instagram, and shop website he operates!

https://www.mtsomersstation.co.nz/

https://www.instagram.com/mtsomersstation/?hl=en


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