Grit, Genetics & Generations at Redrich Farms

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

‘Investing Effort Underpins Our Strategy For Long-Term Herd Success.’

By Mary Loggan

In Forestburg, Alta., Ty Dietrich is redefining genetic excellence in the Angus breed.

Recently named Outstanding Young Angus Breeder in 2025, Dietrich has quickly established himself as one of the most promising voices in Canada’s beef industry.

At just 30 years old, the fourth-generation rancher has already built a reputation for combining tradition with innovation, blending his family’s decades-long commitment to cattle with advanced breeding practices designed to push herd performance and genetic progress forward.

Better Farming recently spoke with Dietrich to discuss his journey, the evolution of his breeding program, the challenges facing today’s producers, and his vision for the future of Canadian beef production.

Farm beginnings

Dietrich’s story begins with family and a deep connection to the land.

“My great-grandpa homesteaded here, starting with just a few cows and working his way up,” Dietrich explains.

This early foundation set the stage for what has become a thriving family operation passed down through generations.

Redrich Farms now encompasses about 500 acres devoted mainly to feed crops like barley-oat and barley-pea mixes, with additional pasture lands.

The herd consists of approximately 230 purebred Red Angus cows and a growing Simmental component.

“We’ve built our operation through consistent growth and deliberate selection,” Dietrich says.

Since launching annual bull and female sales, Redrich Farms has enjoyed steady increases in volume and gross sales – an accomplishment few achieve in the competitive beef cattle market.

“It’s a testament to the hard work everyone in our family puts in,” he adds.

“We hold team meetings, discuss priorities, and make sure everyone's voice is heard. Planning is crucial to keep us on track.

“This helps us stay resilient through the ups and downs,” Dietrich notes, highlighting the care with which they steward their land and livestock.

Family involvement goes beyond operational roles – it's an important part of the farm’s culture. “Many jobs are done with everyone having a part to complete the task at hand efficiently and safely.”

It’s a multi-generational team effort, he says. “My wife Shania and I work full-time on the farm with our three daughters - Rigley, Saylem, and Holland. I'm grateful for everything Shania does in the day — with running around to gymnastics, dance, and hockey with the girls, while making sure everyone is fed and watered, along with helping with farm tasks.

“I’m proud to say our daughters represent the fifth generation on this land. Keeping the farm in the family means everything to us.”

Outside the farm, Dietrich does marketing, graphic design, and livestock photography.

He previously worked with one of Canada’s top photographers before acquiring the business in his early 20s and now operates AgPlus Design & Photography, helping other producers elevate their marketing efforts.

Breeding program and operations

One of the most defining aspects of the Dietrich farm is its breeding program, where he has invested considerable energy and expertise.

“It’s been around 10 to 12 years since I purchased my first Red Angus bull without input from my dad,” he says.

Although his father routinely introduced straight Angus and F1 bulls into the herd, Dietrich has taken the reins in seeking the optimal genetics to improve herd quality and productivity.

Dietrich is deliberate when selecting breeding stock. “I’m always on the lookout for the best semen, and then the challenge becomes finding a match that will bring out the best traits.

“With bulls, I start at the ground and work my way up – looking for clean lines, body depth, and overall thickness. It’s not as simple as it sounds; genetics can be unpredictable,” he acknowledges.

“This investing effort underpins our strategy for long-term herd success.”

Technology and selection also play key roles in the program’s evolution. The farm uses embryo transfer and selectively flushes carefully chosen cows to maximize desirable traits.

“In the past 15 years, this approach has steadily increased at our operation. We’re selective about which cows to flush to improve the herd continuously.

“The day you stop wanting to improve your herd, you should consider dispersing it. There’s always room to do better.”

Dietrich’s influence extends beyond his farm as a member of the Northern Alberta Angus Club board.

His engagement in the wider cattle community fosters valuable knowledge exchange, helping producers keep pace with industry innovations.

He says breeding practices in Alberta have intensified with shorter breeding seasons, improved bull selection, and expanded artificial insemination adoption – all elements Dietrich integrates into his operation.

“Artificial insemination is a game-changer. It lets us access top genetics from across the country to enhance our herd quality.”

Challenges

Like many Alberta producers, Dietrich faces both environmental and economic challenges.

“Drought is the biggest challenge.

“We work hard to maintain our pastures, and we’re fortunate to have good relationships with nearby grain farmers for feed support in dry years.”

Water access is also critical.

“We’re blessed with reliable wells around the farm, ensuring good drinking water for the livestock. That’s essential during tough dry spells,” he adds.

Reflecting on past hardships, Dietrich mentions the severe drought of 2002, a time when feed was scarce across the eastern provinces.

“Many people had to buy feed from the U.S. It was a challenging period.”

The 2004 BSE crisis is also noted. “We fought through that tough time and kept our cattle. It took resilience and faith, but I believe we’re finally on the rebound.”

Input costs present an ongoing pressure.

“Prices for everything from feed to fuel fluctuate a lot, so you have to stay on top of your budgets and buying decisions. It’s something we constantly monitor,” Dietrich notes.

Despite these challenges, the farm’s strategic planning and family teamwork continue to be critical assets.

Looking at the future

With a firm footing in tradition and innovation, Dietrich’s eyes remain on the horizon.

“My hope is that my daughters grow up here on the farm, appreciating the hard work and rewards it brings.”

Continuing the family legacy is paramount. “We plan to keep doing what we’re doing and eventually take over the farm fully from my parents.”

He says that by continuing to focus on improving genetics, he is doing what he can to create a stronger herd for his operation now and in the future.

Growth opportunities exist, but are balanced with contentment. “If we could acquire more land, that would be a bonus, but we’re happy with where we are. It’s more about sustaining and improving what we have.

“Farming is unpredictable; every year brings new challenges. But with strong teamwork, a commitment to learning, and a passion for what we do, we can keep moving forward. BF