Three Generations in New Germany: The DeLong Family Farm

When Ottis DeLong started a farm in New Germany in 1954, he probably couldn’t have pictured how far it would grow. More than seven decades later, his sons Ralph and James run DeLong Farms, and Ralph’s son Thomas represents the third generation on the land.

Eggs for Western Nova Scotia

Eggs are at the heart of the operation. The DeLongs care for a flock of around 36,000 hens, then grade and sell both white and brown eggs to customers across Western Nova Scotia. It’s a big part of why our region is home to so many of the province’s egg and poultry farms.

The next generation is staying connected to the wider industry, too: Thomas has taken part in Egg Farmers of Canada’s national young farmer program.

A true mixed farm

Like many farms in our region, DeLong Farms does more than one thing well. Alongside the laying hens, the family raises beef cattle and grows corn, pumpkins and squash, plus produce, flowers and fragrant balsam fir Christmas trees and wreaths when the season turns.

That mix is part of what keeps family farms here resilient, and it means there’s something to pick up from the DeLongs in nearly every season.

Rooted in New Germany

New Germany sits in the heart of the District’s farm country, surrounded by fields, woodlots and lakes, with its own weekly farmers’ market. For a family farm, it’s a place where you can grow a business without losing touch with the community around you.

The DeLong story is a reminder that farming here isn’t only about new beginnings. It’s also about families who’ve built something lasting, and who are handing it on to the next generation.

Find DeLong Farms in our business directory. Interested in farming in our region, whether you’re starting out or taking over a family operation? Talk to our Economic Development team →