All Indigenous growers, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge! Please use the coupon code GREENHOUSE2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission.

Greenhouses and high tunnels are critical tools for building food security and sovereignty in Northern communities. This webinar highlights the voices of Indigenous and Northern growers who are leading innovative greenhouse projects in challenging climates.

Organized in response to ongoing conversations from our Indigenous Growers Gathering and input from the Indigenous Engagement & Outreach Steering Committee, this session offers a platform to share practical knowledge, strengthen connections, and spotlight successful strategies for season extension in the North.

What to expect:

Greenhouse Lightning Talks: Northern Perspectives features three inspiring short presentations from growers across Northern Ontario, followed by a Q&A session. Each speaker will share their approach, challenges, successes, and how their work supports food sovereignty in their community.

You’ll hear about:

• Practical greenhouse designs and technologies for northern climates
• Real-life adaptations to cold-weather growing challenges
• How greenhouses support community food programs and sovereignty
• Lessons and advice for growers and communities looking to start similar projects

Schedule:

• 1:00 PM – Welcome & Introduction (Rachel, EFAO)
• 1:05 – 1:20 PM – Mnogin Greenhouse (Nipissing First Nation)
• 1:20 – 1:35 PM – Niigaaniin Greenhouse Project (North Shore Tribal Council)
• 1:35 – 1:50 PM – Three Forks Farm (Manitoulin Island, with Eric Blondin)
• 1:50 – 2:00 PM – Open Q&A

Speakers:

Niigaaniin Greenhouse Project

Led by the North Shore Tribal Council and involving eight First Nation communities, this project is revitalizing a former MNR nursery site with 16 greenhouses and 80 acres of farmland. With four greenhouses already retrofitted, the project aims to distribute fresh food locally and boost community resilience. In partnership with the University of Guelph, the project blends traditional knowledge with research-driven innovation.

Mnogin Greenhouse – Nipissing First Nation

Using advanced hydroponic technology, Mnogin Greenhouse grows leafy greens and herbs year-round with minimal land and water. The project enhances food security, supplies community programs, and supports local economic development — all while promoting Anishinaabe values of sustainability and care.

Three Forks Farm – Manitoulin Island

Owned by Peggy Baillie and Eric Blondin, this certified organic farm uses a 30’x120’ high tunnel to extend their growing season nearly year-round. With a strong focus on ecological practices, local food access, and seed sovereignty, Three Forks Farm plays a key role in regional food resilience.

This webinar is part of EFAO’s Indigenous Outreach and Engagement Initiative, which is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness.