Jessica Piccinin

I don’t often get late submissions with the excuse of farrowing (piglets being born), but that is what Jessica Piccinin said when she submitted information about herself after she had been nominated for our 40 under 40 list of Kootenay entrepreneurs.

Working on oilfields in Northern Alberta helped Piccinin appreciate her roots.  She came to see the importance and beauty of the land where she was raised, Creston.

Piccinin started her farming career by working on her grandmother’s farm and later was able to buy her own.  She has vegetables as well as a multitude of animals, including goats, sheep, turkeys and of course farrowing sows. The enjoyment of seeing results of her own hard work gave her satisfaction that the oilfields could never produce.

Here is what Piccinin was able to tell about herself in-between the piglets being born.

How did you come to choose this line of work?

I grew up in the Creston Valley on an orchard and it wasn't until I worked in the oilfield in Northern Alberta that I realized the beauty and importance of working with animals and in the dirt.

What is it about your work that has you excited to get out of bed in the morning?

Each day, month and year are different. We may plant/raise the same things but it’s always new and challenging.

What’s your focus for 2016?

We purchased Quack Me Up! Farm and Hatchery and are excited to integrate duck eggs and whole duck meat into the products we offer.

Why did you decide to become an entrepreneur in the Kootenays?

Simple. I love my community.