Photo description:

13102022 Four combines harvest canola during the second annual Acres for Hamiota harvest just north of the westman community on a cold and windy Thursday. According to farmer and Acres for Hamiota President Travis Brooks, the project raises money for community projects and organizations. This year 115 acres of canola were seeded for the initiative and volunteers helped throughout the growing season from seeding to harvest. Donations from community members and local agriculture, seed and chemical companies helped cover the costs of growing the crop. Due to the cold, wet spring, seeding was delayed until early June and harvest was 5-6 weeks later than last year. Last year Acres for Hamiota raised just under $70,000 and Brooks was hopeful this years harvest would raise even more. Last year the raised money went to a variety of community organizations including the Hamiota Fire Department, the Hamiota 55+ Centre, the Hamiota Aquatic Centre, the Hamiota Arts Council, the Hamiota & District Sports Complex and others. Volunteers from over half a dozen local farms took part in harvesting the canola on Thursday. Other volunteers provided a barbecue lunch prior to the harvest. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun)