About South Country Livestock Equipment

At South Country, our roots go three generations deep. In 1976, Hans Santrau started the company as Ziehl Ventilating Equipment Ltd. But when Klaus Santrau (Hans’ son) took over in the mid 80's, he renamed it South Country Livestock Equipment and moved beyond ventilation to holistic barn solutions. Today, Ryan Santrau continues the legacy, offering the same quality of service we always have.

With over 40 years experience in industry, we’ve worked with thousands of farmers to help them build a better barn - a barn that will last as long as they’re in business. We’re committed to leveraging our experience in order to help every hog and poultry farmer who walks into SCLE.

We also know that farmers doesn’t work just 9 - 5, and so, we’re proud to offer near 24-7 support for those times when you’re in a pinch and need a part, or need help troubleshooting an issue.

Meet Our Team

Ryan Santrau

OWNER

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Ryan took over SCLE in 2015, having spent the greater part of his life involved in various roles within the company. Ryan’s the third generation to run SCLE – it was his grandfather, Hans Santrau, who first started the company back in 1976 (when it was still known as Ziehl Ventilating Equipment Ltd.).

Ryan leads by example and is involved with all aspects of the business on a daily basis, making sure everything stays running smoothly. His extensive knowledge of equipment and installation enables him to be an effective trouble-shooter, and come up with creative solutions to almost any problem that crops up. He organizes most of the company’s larger jobs and lives out the culture behind the business: Dedication to the company, to his customers and to his employees.

Outside of work, Ryan has a strong love for life and for family, and enjoys travelling and trying new adventures.

Darrell Doyle

SERVICE, AND INSTALLER

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Darrell is all heart and he’s been with SCLE for over 25 years. His years of service has given him an encyclopedic understanding of the equipment and the needs of our customers. Through his tenure here at SCLE, he’s seen technology change, but through it all, he’s provided customers with great customer service.

When Darrell is not at work he is mixing with his wife and family and grandchildren, and hunting and travelling. He is also involved in his church and you can quite often find him helping others with their projects.

Barbara Shortt-Hauta

OFFICE MANAGER

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Barbara has been with SCLE since 2010, and has become somewhat of the ‘work Mom’ around the store. She’s fiercely loyal to our close-knit South Country crew because we’re a family who always have each other’s backs. Barbara’s exceptional skills at multitasking, at working with numbers, and her hardcore organization skills make her a powerhouse when it comes to keeping the company’s books in well working order.

Barbara holds firm to the belief that family comes first, and she exemplifies this at work and at home, too. She is married with three kids, four grandkids and last but not least, a small dog. Her love for family, friends, work and life is contagious!

Shane Wolskyj

SALES, SERVICE, PARTS & WARRANTY

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Shane joined the company in 2011 after moving back to Lethbridge (his true ‘stompin’ grounds) from Calgary with his family in tow. Shane is our jack of all trades, doing a little bit of everything – from parts and ordering to shipping and receiving – he’s even answered the call for installation and repair jobs. Shane has a strong sense of what customers need when they come to him, making him exceptional at customer service.

When Shane is not at work – he’s hanging out with his wife and family at home or heading to watch his kids in their extracurricular activities. And, when he does find the time, Shane enjoys becoming a ‘superhero’ while he plays video games.

Josh Smith

SALES, PARTS, SHIPPING & RECEIVING

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Josh fit right in with the SCLE team when he joined back in March of 2016. With a calm demeanor and a natural understanding of how equipment works, Josh was quick to learn SCLE’s style and adopt our methods. These days, Josh is just as quick in helping every customer who walks through our doors.

On his off time, Josh spends time with his daughter – doing the ‘Mr. Mom’ work around the house. He has a creative streak and you can usually find him inventing contraptions to melt different metals – we joke that he’s our ‘Mad Scientist!’

Tyler Smith

SERVICE, AND INSTALLER

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Tyler is known for his positive attitude and strong work ethic, and he takes pride in his ability to solve problems efficiently. His supervisors appreciate his ability to work independently and ask questions when needed, and he is always looking for opportunities to improve his skills. Overall, Tyler is a valuable member of the South Country team, and his dedication to his work is an asset to his colleagues and customers alike.

Tyler's love for the outdoors doesn't end with his work at South Country. He enjoys spending time with his fiancé and two dogs exploring the many natural wonders that the surrounding mountains have to offer. Whether it's setting up camp on a remote lake or hiking through the trails, Tyler is always up for an adventure. He is also enjoys golf and can often be found on the local courses perfecting his swing.

We're here to serve

Questions about where to start or which products you need for your farm? Give us a call or drop by our store and our team of experts will be happy to help you get started!