Cypress County’s Stafford family honoured 2026 Farm Family of the Year

The couple purchased their ranch south of Irvine in 2006 with about 20 cows, and Stafford Ranching has since grown to more than 200 head of cattle.

Along with growing the operation, the family has invested in environmental stewardship projects to protect riparian areas on the ranch, which borders several creeks.

Improvements have included fencing, off-site watering systems and grazing management practices designed to reduce livestock access to sensitive waterways.

One recent project piped water to upland pastures, improving pasture use while helping keep cattle out of creeks.

“You like to think you’ve made a positive impact, even just leaving your place in good shape for your kids,” Ross Stafford said in a statement.

The family’s children are also pursuing careers in agriculture, as Jane Stafford completed an animal science diploma at Lakeland College and is building her own cattle herd while working at Red Rock Ranch Vets, while Rylan Stafford is a welder who also raises cattle and trains horses.

Ross Stafford said he hopes the family will remain part of the community for years to come.

The family’s contributions extend beyond the ranch as Ross has served as a director with the Bow Island Grazing Association and volunteers with draft horse events at the Medicine Hat Stampede.

Arlene has supported students at Irvine School for more than a decade while volunteering with 4-H, and both children continue to mentor young members through clinics and judging events.

Ross Stafford said community involvement has always been a priority.

The Staffords say they hope to continue expanding the ranch while creating opportunities for the next generation of their family in agriculture.

by Jett Schwaier

Cypress County’s Stafford family honoured 2026 Farm Family of the Year

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