Do We Sell the Farm? — dale j crockett

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My work often explores traditions and the importance they play in defining who we are, and how they give us a sense of belonging and place.

This series looks at a particular tradition that takes place in many farming communities: the annual car derby.

The derby is a metaphor on the battle to maintain a community, and a family farm, the struggle to pass down this livelihood and efforts to keep it relevant to a younger generation.

Canada has a limited amount of land suitable for farming, and that amount has been in decline for decades due to development and climate change. Farming income is also on the decline. A recent report by one of Canada’s biggest banks, the Royal Bank of Canada, says there is a looming wave or retirement and 40% of family run farms have no succession plan. This could place food security at great risk.

The drivers and their families who participate in this event are the future of this essential service.

The drivers are mostly young males hoping to win some cash, and behind the scenes are their girlfriends, wives, and children. The day is filled with boys drinking beer, young mothers holding babies and firefighters keeping everyone safe. The grandstand is filled with spectators.

A community is brought together to share in the thrill, but the destruction is a metaphor for a changing way of life, and I wonder how many will stay on the land.

Prints are made on request.

Email requests to dale@dalecrockett.com