As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, so too must the people and businesses that sustain it. This November, the community of Williams Lake, British Columbia, will once again become the hub of forward-thinking discussions, innovative technologies, and collaborative learning, all centered around one shared goal: The Future of Agriculture.

Okanagan Ranch & Fence Supplies is proud to be a sponsor and exhibitor at this year’s 2nd Annual “Our Future in Agriculture” event, happening on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Thompson Rivers University – Williams Lake Campus. This full-day gathering promises to connect farmers, ranchers, suppliers, and agri-professionals through an inspiring lineup of speakers, panels, and workshops, all designed to equip the next generation of agricultural leaders.

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A Day for the Future of Farming

The “Our Future in Agriculture” event is about the gathering of minds. It’s a place where farmers and agri-business professionals come together to learn, connect, and prepare for the years ahead.

This will offer a full day of education, networking, and inspiration. From soil science and succession planning to agri-tech innovations, attendees will gain practical insights that can directly benefit their operations.

Here’s what the day looks like:

    Time Activity
    8:30 AM Registration Opens
    9:00 AM Welcome & Introductions by Community Futures
    9:30 AM Keynote Presentation by Soils Expert Brian Dougherty
    10:30 AM Morning Break
    10:45 AM Succession Planning Professional Panel
    12:00 PM Lunch
    1:30 PM – 3:30 PM Breakout Sessions
    3:45 PM AgriTech & Innovation Panel
    5:00 PM Networking, Appetizers & Entertainment

    Learn more about the event agenda here.

    Keynote Speaker: Brian Dougherty on Building Healthier Soils

    Healthy soil is the foundation of every thriving farm, and who better to speak on that than Brian Dougherty, a respected soils expert and advocate for sustainable land management practices.

    • Soil Health Principles: Learn the core principles of maintaining healthy soil.

    • Nutrient Cycling & Soil Testing: Understand nutrient cycling and get actionable insights on soil testing.

    • Improving Productivity & Water Retention: Discover methods to enhance productivity and improve water retention.

    • Long-Term Resilience & Fertility: Explore strategies for boosting soil fertility and ensuring long-term resilience.

    Succession Panel Insights

    After the keynote, the morning continues with an essential discussion about succession planning. This focuses on legal, financial, and insurance perspectives that can make or break a smooth transition between generations.

    Moderated by experts in their respective fields, the panel includes:

    • Mary MacGregorMary MacGregor Lawyer Corporation
      Legal expert specializing in agricultural and business succession law.

    • Chris HendersonRossworn Henderson LLP
      Chartered professional accountant offering financial strategies for multi-generational farm planning.

    • Jack LiuThe Co-operators
      Investment and insurance specialist helping farm owners safeguard their legacy.

    The goal is to help ranchers create clear, structured plans that ensure their businesses thrive for generations to come.

      Breakout Sessions

      After lunch, the day transitions into a series of interactive breakout sessions, giving attendees the chance to focus on areas most relevant to their operations.

      1:30 PM Breakout Options

      • Environmental Farm Plan
        Learn how to create an environmental roadmap that balances productivity with stewardship. Experts will share how farms can qualify for incentives and demonstrate sustainability leadership.

      • Livestock Profitability Comparison
        A data-driven discussion on maximizing returns in different livestock operations — from cattle and sheep to mixed models.

      • Small Scale Irrigation
        Get hands-on insights into water-efficient irrigation systems ideal for smaller farms and diversified crops.

      2:30 PM Breakout Options

      • Large Scale Irrigation – Dams, Dugouts, Reservoirs
        Explore the infrastructure and investment required to scale up water management efficiently and sustainably.

      • Succession Planning – Investing & Insurance
        A deeper dive into financial tools, risk management, and retirement strategies for those planning farm transitions.

      • Direct Marketing Strategies
        Discover how farmers can connect directly with consumers, reduce middlemen, and increase profitability through smart marketing approaches.

      AgriTech Panel

      As agriculture evolves, technology has become an essential part of every successful operation. The AgriTech & Innovation Producer Panel brings together real producers and innovators who are actively using technology to transform their day-to-day farming practices.

      The panel features:

      • David Mothjel – Gallagher Cattle Collars
        Learn how smart collars are revolutionizing livestock management through tracking, targeted rotational grazing, livestock monitoring, setting up a virtual fence, all through your smartphone.

      • Chris Solecki – Drones & Fertigation Technology
        Discover how drone applications and automated fertigation systems are improving efficiency, yield consistency, and input precision.

      • Tristan Banwell – Multispecies Rotation & Grazing Software
        Hear how data-driven rotation planning supports soil regeneration, biodiversity, and improved pasture utilization.

      Together, these speakers represent the future of practical agri-innovation, showing that technology is not about replacing farmers, but empowering them with better tools and insights.

      Networking Opportunities

      After a day full of learning and collaboration, attendees can relax, network, and unwind. The event concludes with appetizers and local entertainment, providing the perfect setting to connect with peers, share experiences, and build relationships that strengthen the agricultural community.

      This informal gathering is also a great opportunity to visit sponsor booths, including ours, and learn about the products, services, and technologies driving growth in the industry.

       

      okanagan-ranch-and-fence-supplies-agriculture-innovation

      Okanagan Ranch & Fence Supplies: Supporting Innovation in Agriculture

      At Okanagan Ranch & Fence Supplies, we’re proud to support innovation and sustainability in British Columbia’s agricultural community. As a sponsor and exhibitor at the Our Future in Agriculture event, our team will be on-site throughout the day to connect with local producers, share knowledge, and showcase products that are shaping the future of ranching and livestock management.

      Stop by our booth to explore a range of cutting-edge agricultural tools and technologies, including:

      • Razer Grazer – Smart, portable fencing that simplifies rotational grazing and pasture management for better animal health and land productivity.

      • Leader Ear Tags – Reliable identification solutions that make livestock tracking and record-keeping easier and more efficient.

      • Solar Water Buggy – An eco-friendly water delivery system designed to keep livestock watered anywhere on your property, powered entirely by solar energy.

      • eShepherd Virtual Fencing Collars – A groundbreaking GPS-enabled system that manages grazing patterns, eliminates the need for physical fences, and optimizes pasture utilization. This innovative technology will also be featured live in a demo by David Mothjel during the AgriTech Panel, so make sure to check it out in action.

       

      RAZER GRAZER

      Razer Grazer™

      $11,995.00

      eshepherd-collar-virtual-fencing

      eShepherd™

      $350.00 – $415.00

      Solar Water Buggy

      Solar Water Buggy

      $15,995.00

      GPS ear tag

      Livestock Solar GPS Ear Tag

      $389.00

      Let’s Build the Future of Agriculture Together

      The 2nd Annual “Our Future in Agriculture” event is set to be one of the most valuable gatherings of the year for anyone involved in farming and ranching across British Columbia.

      From soils and sustainability to technology and transition planning, this event covers every cornerstone of agricultural success. And with Okanagan Ranch & Fence Supplies proudly supporting and participating, it’s also a chance to connect directly with us and learn how we can help you strengthen your operation.

      Event Details:

      Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
      Time: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
      Venue: Thompson Rivers University – Williams Lake Campus
      Admission: Open to all farmers, ranchers, and agri-professionals

      Tickets are still available — reserve your spot today!

       

      See you on November 22 in Williams Lake, BC!