Glen McDowell was born in Miami, Manitoba on November 5, 1936. As a young man, he returned to the farm when his help was needed and stayed, never considering it a sacrifice of his own personal goals. He and his wife, Joan, are proud to be farming the land homesteaded by his grandfather in 1888.
He was one of the farmers whose vision it was to create the Deerwood Soil and Water Management Association, a vehicle to assist local farmers in addressing soil and water management concerns. In partnership with the Deerwood Association, Ducks Unlimited and Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Association, he built a dam on his property to control the run-off from the escarpment above. This provides good quality water for his livestock and improves habitat for wildlife. He continues to try innovative ways of farming more efficiently, uses solar energy for his electric fences and has helped set up solar pumps to provide water for his livestock.
Sound land management practices are implemented in relation to his land’s capabilities. Field shelterbelts are an important tool on his farm. He shares his knowledge and records with the Deerwood Association for use in the South Tobacco Creek Project, which is evaluating the relationship between agricultural practices and the environment.
Glen is dedicated to breeding purebred Charolais cattle and is concerned about the welfare of wildlife. He is a mentor to the young people in his community and always takes time to help them when they seek his advice and counsel.
Glen has been a member of the Canadian and Manitoba Charolais Associations for over 26 years and is a founding member of the South Central Charolais Association. He served as a trustee of Deerwood Community Hall and on the Board of Directors of the South Central Veterinary Clinic since 1996. He volunteers at community social events and has made wrought iron signs to mark historical places in the area.
Glen is known as a farmer who loves and cares for his family, his farm, his community and the world around him. He is a good steward of the land and wishes to leave the land in better condition for succeeding generations.