Barn Spotlight: Grandview Colony

Location: Grande Prairie, Alta.

Sector: Layers and pullets

The business
Grandview Colony, a Hutterite community based in Alberta, has been deeply rooted in egg production for generations. Jonty Hofer, who oversees the operation with help from his son Corey, notes, “Egg production has been a cornerstone for us across four generations.”

The need
Operating on 14,000 acres, they recognized the need for change to sustain profitability. Leasing out part of their egg quota for years, Hofer felt it would be more profitable if they used the quota themselves. Hofer explains, “We realized we weren’t maximizing our potential. It was time for a change.” Market demand, notably from Burnbrae Farms, pushed them towards investing in a free-run barn.

A new Volker egg packer and stacker adds efficiency.

Jonty and Corey Hofer in their new aviary barn.

For summer ventilation, they switch over to cooling pads.

The barns
Their new barn boasts an advanced aviary system from Kaiser Ag, chosen for its bird-friendly design. “The transition to a cage-free system was essential for us,” Hofer insists. “The aviary system appealed to our commitment to bird welfare.” Cutting-edge ventilation, controlled by a Stienen controller, ensures optimal conditions year-round. And a Völker egg packing system streamlines collection, reflecting Grandview Colony’s commitment to efficiency. Hofer adds, “We’ve always valued our heritage, but we’re not afraid to embrace change.”  

Barn Spotlight highlights new and renovated barns and hatcheries. Do you know of a good candidate to be featured? Let us know at poultry@annexweb.com.