The Delorme family - Cultivating crops with an innovative mindset

The stone house on the farm is covered with an ancient vine that tells the story of generations past. To sixth-generation farmer Eric Delorme, farming means hard work. But it also means freedom: the freedom to choose what to grow on the land and the freedom to choose what you want to do with your life.

For every decision that is made on the family farm, Eric has succession in mind. He wants to hand down the farm in the best possible shape for his 21-year-old son, Maxime.

“When I see you drive the tractor with a smile on your face, I think it may be one of the happiest times in my life,” says Eric, looking at his son. “You too can be free, free to choose what you want to do with your life. I hope you’ll be the seventh-generation farmer. When that day comes, if it comes, your mother and I will be proud and happy.”

“I feel really happy on the farm, but the day Maxime settles down, I'll be even happier.” 

Eric Delorme

Maxime’s goal is to take over the family farm. He’s not worried about the workload. “My biggest fear about taking over the farm is climate change,” Maxime says.

“The issues related to farming have changed. In the past, we had to produce more to reduce famines. Now we have to produce more and save resources while reducing emissions,” says Maxime, who is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Business Management in the food processing industry.

Maxime will do some things differently from his father, but it’s important for him to keep the family spirit of the farm alive.

“I feel proud about being able to feed the population every day.” 

Maxime Delorme