An unusual run of twin calves is turning heads at Mason Farms in Manitoba’s Interlake, where seven sets have already been born in 2026 — including one cow that continues to defy the odds.
Lanna Mason, Derek Johnson, Ken Mason, Andrew Mason and Darcy Mason are pictured at the Manitoba legislature on March 14, where Johnson recognized Mason Farms for their contributions to the community
Owned and operated by Lanna and Darcy Mason, the dairy farm has seen a rare streak this year, highlighted by a cow the family calls “Girl 4,” who recently delivered twins for the fourth consecutive year.
The latest birth brings her total to eight calves in four years — a feat that has made her something of a standout in the herd.
“She’s grown on us quite a bit around here, knowing she has a good chance of delivering twins,” said Lanna Mason. “Other than getting a bit more barn time after she gives birth and extra feed, she does her own thing and fits in with the rest of the herd.”
While twin calves can draw attention, they also come with added responsibility. Twin births are less common in dairy operations and often require closer monitoring in the early days to ensure both calves are healthy and feeding properly.
So far, the results have been encouraging.
The Masons say all but one of this year’s calves have been successfully raised by their mothers, with only one requiring additional care. Although the twins tend to be slightly smaller at birth, they have kept pace with the rest of the herd as they grow.
The wave of twin births is just one part of what has become a milestone year for the farm.
Earlier this month, Mason Farms added three more cows to its list of excellent classifications following a visit from a classifier with Holstein Canada.
The designation — awarded based on structure, dairy strength and udder quality — is considered a significant benchmark in herd development and breeding success.
“It’s a huge accomplishment for us,” said Darcy Mason.
The latest recognition comes a decade after the farm recorded its first excellent cow, marking a period of steady growth and transformation.
“We’ve grown from a few hand-milked cows to 60 robotically milked ones,” Darcy said. “Over the years we’ve emphasized the health, breeding and genetic success of our herd, building what we know and love today.”
That progress has not gone unnoticed beyond the farmyard.
The family was recently recognized at the Manitoba Legislature by Derek Johnson for its contributions to agriculture and the local community. The Masons travelled to Winnipeg on March 14 for the recognition, joined by Grampa Ken, who remains actively involved in day-to-day operations.
“It came as a surprise, but it was nice to be recognized,” Darcy said.
For Lanna, the moment reflected something larger than their own farm.
“It’s important to see that small farms in the Interlake are being recognized for the ways they help contribute to the community,” she said.
Despite the attention, life at Mason Farms continues much as it always has — with early mornings, long days and a shared commitment across generations.
Grampa Ken is still a steady presence in the operation, lending a hand wherever needed.
“He’s a farmer and that’s all he knows,” Darcy said. “Farming is not just a job to us — it’s a lifestyle we all enjoy.”
