What a year it has been! As the EFAO team begins to set in motion programs and activities for the coming year, it feels important to take a moment to reflect on some of what has been accomplished over the past year.
Here are a few highlights from 2023 to celebrate as we head into the holiday season:
- EFAO brought together 2827 participants over 125 events (e.g field days, courses, webinars, meet-ups) supporting knowledge sharing on topics such as seeds, small grains, rotational grazing, business start-up and much more!
- The Farmer-Led Research Program supported 32 farmers to conduct 30 research trials on topics such as fava bean, okra, variety trials, no-till potato trials, cool vs warm season pasture grasses, and transplant methods for EZ leaf lettuce.
- The Small Grains Program supported 23 farmers, 1,515 acres with small grains and cover crops, including wheat, oats, barley, and buckwheat.
- Over 375 participants came together for EFAO’s annual conference in London for 35 fantastic workshops, a bustling trade show, many delicious shared meals, and tons of great conversations and learning.
- The EFAO staff and board team initiated a new project to collaborate with Indigenous farmers, growers and land stewards around knowledge sharing in ecological agriculture.
- EFAO continued to play a leadership role on the Board of Farmers for Climate Solutions, a national farmer-led coalition that is working to advance policies and programs to support farmers in making the transition to low emissions, high resilient agriculture.
All this work is made possible thanks to the hard work and engagement of EFAO members, partners and supporters. Thank you for all the ways you co-create and support EFAO’s work in building resilient ecological farms and growing a strong knowledge sharing community!