Dwight Garrett and his family’s return to dairy farming is a story of dedication, innovation, and a vision for the future. After stepping away from dairy farming in 2010, Dwight, his wife Leanne, and their children, including Gabe, Eden, Ashlyn and their daughter-in-law Jenna, have re-entered the industry with renewed enthusiasm and a commitment to building a legacy. Today, they operate JeffreHolme Farms, milking 58 cows feeding out of four big blue, sealed silos, with two GEA R9500 robots in a state-of-the-art barn that has been up and running since 2020.
The Return to Farming: A Family Decision
For Dwight, the decision to return to farming was motivated by the desire to work for himself and create a sustainable, family-oriented future. “The idea of just being able to work for oneself is pretty exciting,” Dwight explains. But beyond personal fulfillment, Dwight wanted to give his children the chance to build a life in the farming industry, ensuring that they could continue the family legacy of working the land and raising their own families on the farm.
The idea of just being able to work for oneself is pretty exciting
Gabe, who had spent some time as a truck driver before returning to the farm, echoes his father’s sentiment: “Farming is freeing. It’s just different than anything else.” Gabe, 20, has embraced the shift from traditional milking methods to more automated systems, appreciating how technology allows for more efficiency and time to focus on other aspects of farming. He notes that working with robots is not only more comfortable but also results in better milk production.
Farming is Freeing!
Embracing Automation for Greater Efficiency
The Garrett family has embraced automation as a key part of their farming operation, recognizing its ability to streamline labor and improve production. The farm’s two GR robots have been a game changer, providing the convenience of automated milking and allowing the family to focus on other tasks. In addition, automated feeding systems have helped improve the consistency and efficiency of feed delivery.
One of the most impactful investments has been the installation of Harvestore silos, which Dwight and Gabe emphasize as crucial to improving feed quality and, consequently, milk production. “The silos provide us processed feed in front of the cows, feeding twice a day, more accurate measurements,” Dwight explains. “We’ve seen production jump from 38 liters to 46 liters per cow.”
With five silos on the farm, including the addition of a 25 by 90 silo in 2021, the Garretts have effectively reduced the labor involved in feeding while maintaining a consistent supply of high-quality feed. As Dwight mentions, the first cut of haylage stored in the new silo led to a noticeable improvement in production, with the herd reaching a high of 50 liters per cow during certain months.
We’ve even seen the heard hit 50 liters,
We contribute a lot of that to the new silo [helping us] deliver processed feed.
A Growing Family Business
At the heart of the farm’s success is its family-oriented approach. Dwight’s daughter Eden, now 17, has developed her own herd of dairy cows, which she’s steadily growing. Her passion for farming started when she was just 12 years old and has led her to become a key part of the operation. Eden’s achievement of having one of her cows featured in Holstein International’s January 2025 edition is a testament to her dedication to her herd.
Looking ahead, Dwight envisions a future where more family members return to the farm as the operation continues to grow. “I hope to see the kids doing more and more, and by the time I’m 60, I can step back and enjoy time with my grandkids,” Dwight shares. Gabe, for his part, is committed to pushing the farm forward alongside his father, always striving for improvement. “Dad sets a goal, and I try to make it better. We’re always pushing each other.”
The Importance of Mental Health and Family Support
Farming is no easy task, and the Garrett family recognizes the mental and physical toll it can take. However, they find solace in the rhythms of farm life. Dwight reflects on how farming has helped him and his family manage stress: “It’s nice to be here. It really helps with the mental health in the farming community.” Gabe adds, “Being here as a family is huge. There’s always a team, and that makes a big difference.”
Their commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance is evident, and as they continue to improve their farm and grow their herd, they are excited about the future—both for the farm and the family. With a focus on sustainability, the Garretts are not just farming; they are shaping the future of dairy farming in Ontario.
The Future of Dairy Farming in Ontario
Looking ahead, Gabe believes that automation will continue to play a significant role in the future of farming. “I think we’ll see more robots and automated feeding systems,” he predicts. For the Garretts, the goal is to continue growing the farm while keeping it a family operation, ensuring that the next generation has the opportunity to carry on the family’s farming legacy.
As Dwight looks to the next 10 years, his plans are clear: continue growing the farm, buying quota, and ensuring that his children have the opportunity to take over the reins. “We’ve got room to grow,” Dwight says. “The barn was built bigger than we needed, so we’re set for the future.”
The Garrett family’s journey is a perfect example of how innovation, hard work, and family values can drive success in modern farming. With automation, a commitment to sustainability, and a clear vision for the future, the Garretts are ready to meet the challenges of the evolving farming landscape, all while building a legacy that will continue for generations to come.
The silos are consistent…
To take up expensive acreage with bunks, just doesn’t make sense.
We feel we’re doing more for the environment doing without all the plastic waste.