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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250128T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250128T150000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241218T165138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T193237Z
UID:21044-1738072800-1738076400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Introduction to Soil Health
DESCRIPTION:Soil is the foundation of growing healthy food. In this interactive webinar\, we will discuss the types of soils and their attributes\, the role of soil organic matter\, and activities that contribute to degrading\, maintaining\, and building healthy soils. \nSpeaker: Sarah Larsen\, Research & Small Grains Programs Director at EFAO. Sarah will bring her perspective on soil using knowledge gained as an academic and as a Michif (Red River Métis) woman\, farmer\, and Water Protector. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge! Please use the coupon code 100SOIL when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of EFAO’s Indigenous Outreach and Engagement Initiative\, which is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Agribusiness.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/introduction-to-soil-health/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Soil-workshop-e1716911561168.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250128T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250128T130000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20250116T184925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T200153Z
UID:21086-1738063800-1738069200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Finance February: Vegetable Benchmarking
DESCRIPTION:A group of EFAO farmers came together in 2024 to dig deep on farm financials and get transparent on the profit potential for ecological vegetable production. Their meeting sparked a new pilot benchmarking study at EFAO\, with the goal to expand collective knowledge of the factors that influence the financial resilience of ecological farms.  \nJoin this session to learn about the use of financial benchmarks in supporting small-scale ecological farm viability. Speakers will share the results of a benchmarking study by PASA which inspired similar conversations at EFAO\, and common challenges and tips for participating in benchmarking studies.  We hope that participants will leave with enthusiasm for this important area of research and next steps for participating in EFAO’s study. \nThis session kicks off Finance February\, an EFAO webinar series focused on supporting farm financial viability with practical skills and knowledge. Check out the EFAO Events page for more information. \nA Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants. \nFunding support for these workshops has been generously provided by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.  \n \n  \nAbout the speakers: \nAngie Koch‘s passion for vegetable production is rivalled only by her passion for spreadsheets and profitability analyses – a point of both pride and discomfort. She is excited by the potential to better understand the factors that contribute to farm viability and financial resilience. \nJohn Hendrickson coordinates research and training programs in organic and sustainable specialty crop production\, marketing\, and profitability at the Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His work focuses on the economics and profitability of fresh market vegetable farming. He is particularly passionate about farm viability as it relates to farm scale\, livelihood\, labor\, and equipment. \nMichael Guerci is a research coordinator at Pasa Sustainable Agriculture. He primarily coordinates and advocates for Pasa’s Financial Benchmark Study and Soil Health Benchmark Study. Prior to joining Pasa\, he worked on diversified vegetable farms for many years. He also holds a Master’s in Agricultural and Applied Economics from Virginia Tech and volunteered for the Peace Corps in the Philippines. \nHeather Newman works at EFAO as Research Coordinator\, supporting the team in the pilot year of the vegetable benchmark study.  She grew up farming on an organic mixed farm in Bruce County. After completing her BSc at the University of Waterloo\, Heather returned home to raise a family. As her family grew so did her own farm and food business. Heather is passionate about growing heritage varieties in an ecologically conscientious way\, growing the local food economy and creating unique\, delicious food products from local ingredients through her co-owned food company\, Two Birds One Stone. 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/finance-february-vegetable-benchmarking-2025/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/20230906_160339-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250114T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250114T143000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241105T191945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241105T192042Z
UID:20829-1736859600-1736865000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring Cucurbit Genetics: Watermelon\, Melon\, & Cucumber Adaptation
DESCRIPTION:Are you a farmer interested in adapting cucurbit crops like cucumbers\, watermelons\, and melons for northern climates? Join us for an in-depth webinar with Dr Micheal Mazourek\, where we’ll explore breeding techniques\, disease resistance\, and adaptation strategies tailored for more northern growing conditions. Topics will include: \n\nCucurbit genetics\, and key traits to look for in regional adaptation including disease resistance\, earliness\, and cold tolerance\nThe pros and cons of different crossing strategies\nTips for breeding cucurbits in small spaces\n\nThis session will also cover practical tips on improving flavour\, stabilizing varieties\, and how to handle challenges with seed production in these crops. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced in plant breeding\, this webinar will provide valuable insights for adapting cucurbits to your region’s unique growing challenges. \nPlease submit your questions in advance to shape the discussion. \nWho Should Attend: \nFarmers\, breeders\, and seed enthusiasts interested in plant breeding and adapting crops to ecological conditions.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/exploring-cucurbit-genetics-practical-breeding-strategies-for-watermelon-melon-and-cucumber-adaptation/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/20230831_084237-scaled-e1730834360492.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241125T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241125T153000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241105T191424Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241105T191424Z
UID:20824-1732545000-1732548600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:CANOVI Farm Club: Heat Tolerant Lettuce
DESCRIPTION:At this CANOVI Farm Club\, we’ll go over the information and results of the cross-Canada 2024 Heat Tolerant Lettuce Trials and hear from growers across Canada about their experiences. We’ll reserve lots of time for questions\, sharing\, and discussion about your trialing experience and observations of the varieties! Presentations will be in English with translated slides.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/canovi-farm-club-heat-tolerant-lettuce/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024-2025-Webinar-Series-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241120T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241120T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241025T160816Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T160816Z
UID:20729-1732095000-1732102200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Marketing and Distribution
DESCRIPTION:How do you create a successful marketing campaign for your business? This workshop will discuss how you conduct market research\, how you price your product and effectively promote it\, and how you evaluate market opportunities and possibilities.  We will also be looking at distributions and the various models for getting your product to the consumer. \nSpeakers: David Alexander\, Everdale and Stephanie Laing\, Fiddlehead Farm \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/marketing-and-distribution-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/allie-smith-1092451-unsplash-e1589468922302-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241118T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241118T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241025T155935Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T155935Z
UID:20719-1731940200-1731947400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Meeting Small Business Requirements on the Farm
DESCRIPTION:How do you ensure you are doing everything you need to be doing as a business?  Are you registered? Are you taking advantage of everything you should be? Is it better to be a sole proprietorship or to incorporate? Kristel Manes from the Guelph-Wellington Business Centre will help participants understand what they should be doing in order to meet all requirements and ensure best practices. \nSpeakers: Kristel Manes\, Executive Director of the Guelph-Wellington Business Centre and Tony Morris \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/meeting-small-business-requirements-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/eco-warrior-princess-lUShu7PHIGA-unsplash-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241118T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241118T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241025T160423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T160423Z
UID:20724-1731922200-1731929400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Land Access Panel Discussion
DESCRIPTION:One of the top barriers for new farmers is access to land. Join three panelists as they share their stories and ideas around innovative land access models. They will also discuss organizations and supports that could be helpful in your own land access journey.  \nSpeakers: Jessica Tong\, NFU-O Farmland Access Coordinator\, Heather Lekx\, Ignatius Farm\, and Fianna Dirks\, Its Giving Farm \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/land-access-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/White-and-Blue-Did-You-Know-Interesting-Fact-Instagram-Post-1-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241113T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241113T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241025T155239Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T155239Z
UID:20714-1731508200-1731515400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Business Plan Panel
DESCRIPTION:An important aspect of starting any business is having a business plan. A business plan is an essential tool in communicating your farm business’ needs\, goals and challenges and is often used to secure financing\, make sound decisions and keep your plans on track. Hear from these panelists on how they went about building their business plan\, challenges they had and tips they have to share. \nSpeakers: Steve D’Alimonte\, Piccolo Farm Organics\, Aarathi Edward\, Backyard Roots and Shoots & Paula Reynolds\, Salad Days Farm \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/business-plan-panel-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Pic3.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241113T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241113T150000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241021T185916Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241021T185916Z
UID:20631-1731506400-1731510000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Quality Testing for Marketing Specialty and Organic Grains
DESCRIPTION:Wondering how end-use quality testing can help you better grow and sell your grains or source an ingredient with just the characteristics you’re searching for? Join us on November 13th for a webinar outlining the end-use quality testing process and why it’s so useful when working with really unique and regional grains – whether that’s organic\, whole grains\, ancient grains\, or one-of-a-kind farmer-bred cultivars. Using test results from a 2023 crop of Canadian farmer-bred wheat cultivars\, we’ll discuss the indicators and technology available for evaluating grains\, plus how to interpret test results and use them to guide agronomic and marketing decisions. \nWith speakers from across the value chain\, we will explore a few perspectives on end-use quality testing for specialty grains. Join us to discuss how farmers and processors like millers or bakers can work together to find top-quality ingredients for unique and nutritious foods! \nSpeakers: Michelle Dang (Bauta Family Initiative)\, Robert Beauchemin (La Milanaise)\, and Ward Middleton (Midmore Farms). \nWho is this event for? Anyone who wants to learn about the tools available for evaluating how grains are likely to perform under different uses and anyone interested in understanding what people at different parts of specialty grains value chains are looking for. Farmers will learn how to use quality testing results to assess a crop’s characteristics\, gain insight into their customers’ needs\, and identify marketing channels to best match that crop. Food artisans and food processors will leave with a deeper understanding of how to work with specialty grains\, including the agronomic and genetic factors that can influence a crop’s characteristics and how to build strong relationships with local producers.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/quality-testing-for-marketing-specialty-and-organic-grains/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/8-e1729537079402.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241113T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241113T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241025T154044Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T154044Z
UID:20709-1731490200-1731497400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:An Introduction to Human Resources for Small-scale Farm Operations
DESCRIPTION:What makes a good farm employer? This webinar will provide an overview of:  \n\nHiring and incentives; \nHR fundamentals; \nInterpersonal dynamics\, training\, and retention; and \nPlanning\, task management\, and delegation.\n\nSpeaker: Brian Tammi\, Paradise Fields Farm \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/intro-to-human-resources-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Teachingmoment-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241111T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241111T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241025T152722Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T152722Z
UID:20704-1731335400-1731342600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:What are co-ops and what can a farm coop look like?
DESCRIPTION:Co-ops are collectively-owned and democratically-run businesses that put people and planet over profits. Join our two speakers as we learn about different types of co-ops and what being part of a farm coop can look like. \nSpeakers: Christine Clarke\, Freedom Dreams Co-operative Education and Natalie Childs\, Agricola Cooperative Farm \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/what-are-co-ops-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/5438545_a8915635-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241111T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241111T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241024T192529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T152057Z
UID:20687-1731317400-1731324600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Finances and Budgets
DESCRIPTION:This workshop will focus on the key financial information that every small farm-business owner should know. We will review key concepts that will help you better understand your numbers\, and discuss different ways of organizing your financial data to get the information you need to make data-driven decisions to improve profits. We will leave plenty of time for Q&A. \nSpeaker: Julia Shanks\, author of The Farmer’s Office \nJulia Shanks brings a broad range of professional experience to her clients; from pilot\, to chef\, to serial entrepreneur\, she combines the practicality of an accountant with the creativity of a chef. Julia’s career started at the FAA as an aviation analyst\, and quickly took a turn into the culinary arts. Julia worked as a chef for 15 years\, launching several food businesses. After earning an MBA in entrepreneurship\, she taught graduate and undergraduate accounting at Babson College. As a business consultant and coach\, she supports owners of small- and medium- sized food and agricultural businesses to achieve and maintain financial and operational sustainability and also offers online training courses. Together with Brett Grohsgal\, she co-authored The Farmers Market Cookbook. Julia lives in Cambridge\, MA. She is also the author of The Farmer’s Office. \n  \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/finances-and-budgets-2/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/money-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241106T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241106T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241024T191352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T152128Z
UID:20682-1730903400-1730910600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Financing Your Farm
DESCRIPTION:Financing is a major barrier to many new farmers.  This panel will provide an overview of some of the different types of financing options and programs for new farmers and the requirements for them.  There will also be an opportunity to ask questions of the representatives from different financing institutions and organizations (such as Fair Finance Fund and Alterna). \nFacilitator: Johanna Mercedes from Fair Finance Fund\, other speakers TBD \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/financing-your-farm-3/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/chard-scaled-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241106T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241106T233000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241015T182925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T151833Z
UID:20587-1730885400-1730935800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Record Keeping
DESCRIPTION:Small businesses have an incredible amount of data to track.  Join us for this half day workshop where we will discuss a variety of methods and tools for recordkeeping that can be used in a wide range of applications for farms of different scales. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeakers: David Alexander\, Everdale Farm & Angie Koch\, Fertile Ground Farm \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/record-keeping/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-1-1-1-e1729016894119.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241104T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241104T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241025T151640Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T151640Z
UID:20699-1730730600-1730737800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Planning for Production
DESCRIPTION:Having a product to sell is the first step in running an agricultural business. Learn the steps needed and tools available to begin developing a production plan. Learn about different models and scales of production supports and find out what will work best for your business. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: David Alexander\, Everdale Farm \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario. \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/planning-for-production-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/flowers-scaled-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241104T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241104T113000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20241024T142317Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T151733Z
UID:20673-1730712600-1730719800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Holistic Farm Design
DESCRIPTION:Are you wanting to start a farm business but are not sure where to start? This workshop will cover the bigger picture questions surrounding the development of a whole farm plan. Where are you now and where are you headed? How will an agricultural business fit with the rest of your life and in your community?  What will be your enterprise of focus and how do you determine the scale of your business? These questions\, your questions and more will be discussed. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeakers: David Alexander\, Everdale Farm with guest farmer Carl Leslie \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario. \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/holistic-farm-design-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/farm-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241028T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241028T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240906T180724Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240906T180724Z
UID:20266-1730125800-1730133000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Vegetable Crop Planning
DESCRIPTION:What are you growing\, how much\, and where? Angie Koch of Fertile Ground Farm will share her over 15 years of experience in crop planning and offer tools and ideas to think about when doing your own crop plan. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Angie Koch\, Fertile Ground Farm \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/vegetable-crop-planning-2/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/20210807_120856-scaled-1-e1725646000469.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241021T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241021T160000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240906T164709Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240906T164709Z
UID:20261-1729521000-1729526400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Seed Saving
DESCRIPTION:Do you want to produce some of your seed on-farm?  In this webinar you will learn what crops are easiest for beginner-level seed production\, how to plan your production to minimize cross pollination\, the number of  plants required to maintain genetic viability and varietal strength as well as how to collect\, clean and store your seed. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Kim Delaney\, Hawthorn Seeds \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/seed-saving/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/seed-to-seed_thumbnail.-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241007T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241007T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240913T143922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240913T143922Z
UID:20300-1728311400-1728318600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Panel Discussion on Value-added Production
DESCRIPTION:Are you considering branching out into value added farm goods? Hear about the experiences of our panel of farmers who make and sell prepared goods. \nXiaobing\, Audrey\, and Steve will share their stories\, what they think are the most important considerations as you start out\, as well as challenges\, tips\, and best practices. \nSpeakers: Steve D’Alimonte from Piccolo Farm Organics\, Xiaobing Shen from Long Road Ecological Farm (Farm Sum) and Audrey May from The Greenhouse Eatery. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/panel-discussion-on-value-added-production/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/IMG_20230715_112740656_HDR-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240925T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240925T200000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240906T153908Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240906T153908Z
UID:20246-1727287200-1727294400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Growing Medicinal Herbs
DESCRIPTION:Join Shabina as she shares her experience with growing herbs for medicine and tea. She will discuss how growing herbs differs from growing vegetables\, different harvest and drying techniques\, as well as tips and tricks she has found useful. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Shabina Lafleur-Gangji\, co-director of Seed\, Soil and Spirit School \nShabina is a mixed Indian\, Persian\, and French herbalist who has been involved in healing justice work last decade. She works to support people in reclaiming their traditional knowledge through their connection with ancestral plants and has used herbal medicine as a way to fundraise for movements for freedom and liberation. She holds an advanced diplomat from Humber College’s Traditional Chinese Practition and Acupuncture Program and is a graduate of the the School of Ayurveda and Panchakarma in Kerala and the Living Earth School of Herbalism. She has studied alongside herbalists such as Dr. Nadine Ijaz\, Janette Cormier\, Scott Reid and Janice Canning. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/growing-medicinal-herbs-2/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/nettle-1-scaled-1-e1725637095884.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240923T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240923T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240906T153430Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240906T153430Z
UID:20240-1727101800-1727109000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Permaculture for the Market Gardener
DESCRIPTION:Permaculture tends to be very much in the domain of home gardeners and property owners. But what if we could take it all a step further\, and merge the fields of permaculture and market gardening? \nZach will introduce the concept of Permabeds and the Permabed System which is about how to lay out land for commercially-viable diverse market gardens and edible landscapes as well as Edible Ecosystem Design which is a method for highly diversified and organized land management. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Zach Loeks\, author of The Permaculture Market Garden \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario. \n \net gard \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/permaculture-for-the-market-gardener-2/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Permabeds-e1725636716715.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240919T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240920T160000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240808T200123Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240814T141023Z
UID:20075-1726774200-1726848000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Plant\, Grow\, Eat\, Save\, Repeat: Seed Sovereignty in Northwestern Ontario
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted by Lakehead University in partnership with EFAO\, Roots Community Food Centre\, Superior Seed Producers\, Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority\, Lake Superior Living Labs Network\, and Understanding Our Food Systems. \nJoin local seed producers\, researchers\, and activists for part (or all!) of this 2 day seed sovereignty event to learn about the interdependent relationships between people and seeds. \n  \nThursday September 19th: Panel Discussion: Seed-Human Relationships (webinar\, or in-person) \nHear from our panelists about seed initiatives happening in northwestern Ontario and beyond\, including a landrace watermelon breeding project happening in Thunder Bay! \nYou are welcome to watch the panel in person at Roots Community Food Centre (450 Ft. William Rd\, Thunder Bay) or join online! A Zoom link will be sent to all registrants.  \nPanelists: Evalisa McIllfaterick of Root Cellar Gardens\, Manish Kushwaha of Gaia Organics\, Kay Everts of Going to Seed\, and Tayohseron:tye (Nikki Auten). \n  \nFriday September 20th: Seed Saving Workshop\, Watermelon Tasting & Seed Garden Tours in Thunder Bay \nJoin us for a full day of seedy fun! The day will begin with a workshop on seed saving and then participants will be invited to collect seeds from a variety of vegetable crops provided by Superior Seed Producer members. Participants will also see firsthand the process of selecting and harvesting seed from some of the plants growing in the Roots Community Food Centre Urban Farm. \nAfterwards\, participants will be treated to a watermelon tasting of various northern-hardy watermelons\, and will be invited to save the seeds from the variety they like the best! After the watermelon tasting\, we will have a break for lunch (please bring a lunch with you). \nIn the afternoon\, participants are invited to tour several seed gardens in and around Thunder Bay (locations TBA). Limited transportation is available from Roots Community Food Centre Urban Farm to the seed garden tours. Please indicate when you register if you are in need of transportation. \nFriday Schedule: \n\n9:00am: Meet at Roots Community Food Centre Urban Farm (125 Lillie Street\, Thunder Bay\, ON)\n9:30am – 12:00pm: Seed saving demonstrations and hands-on activities\n12:00pm – 1:00pm: Watermelon tasting event!\n1:00pm – 2:00pm: Lunch (please bring your own lunch)\n2:00pm – 4:00pm: Seed garden tours in and around Thunder Bay
URL:https://efao.ca/event/seed-sovereignty-nw/
CATEGORIES:Field Day,Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/all-the-melons-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240916T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240916T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240906T152055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240906T152055Z
UID:20229-1726497000-1726504200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Intercropping in Market Gardens
DESCRIPTION:Intercropping is a way to increase on-farm biodiversity and can provide a range of benefits. At the same time\, it increases complexity and can create challenges\, which necessitates pro-active management.  Wondering how you can intercrop? Join Kristine Hammel from Persephone Market Garden to learn how intercropping is essential to her growing and  some principles that can help you increase agro-biodiversity in your farming. And yes\, there will be a chart of companion plants to get you started. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Kristine Hammel\, Persephone Market Garden \nKristine Hammel farms on the traditional lands of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation near Owen Sound. Together with her husband\, Thorsten\, and 3 kids\, she is trying to steward 100 acres of forest\, swamp and meadow. Her livelihood grows in a 1.5 acre market garden\, whose fruits are distributed via a CSA and direct to restaurants. She has a M.Sc in Organic Food Chain Management and a B.SC in Environmental Studies. Her farming roots go back many generations on her Dad’s side\, while her Mom sought out the land. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/intercropping-in-market-gardens-2/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/IMG-3686-scaled-e1725636014771.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240911T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240911T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240903T192426Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240903T192426Z
UID:20216-1726065000-1726072200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:What to Look for When Buying or Renting Land
DESCRIPTION:Are you daunted by the prospect of renting or purchasing land?  Listen to our panel of speakers discuss what to look for when renting or buying land and what questions you may need to ask before you enter into an agreement. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeakers: Lorne Jamieson\, Martina Schaefer of Spiral Farm & John Veit of Wicked Welly Farm \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario. \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/what-to-look-for-when-buying-land-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/farm-for-sale-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240729T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240729T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240429T180530Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240429T180530Z
UID:19484-1722263400-1722270600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Intercropping in Market Gardens
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.  \nIntercropping is a way to increase on-farm biodiversity and can provide a range of benefits. At the same time\, it increases complexity and can create challenges\, which necessitates pro-active management.  Wondering how you can intercrop? Join Kristine Hammel from Persephone Market Garden to learn how intercropping is essential to her growing and some principles that can help you increase agro-biodiversity in your farming. And yes\, there will be a chart of companion plants to get you started. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Kristine Hammel\, Persephone Market Garden
URL:https://efao.ca/event/intercropping-in-market-gardens/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/allie-smith-1092451-unsplash-e1589468922302.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240724T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240724T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240527T123402Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240528T135316Z
UID:19601-1721831400-1721838600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Permaculture for the Market Gardener
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.  \nPermaculture tends to be very much in the domain of home gardeners and property owners. But what if we could take it all a step further\, and merge the fields of permaculture and market gardening? Zach will introduce the concept of Permabeds and the Permabed System which is about how to layout land for commercially-viable diverse market gardens and edible landscapes as well as Edible Ecosystem Design which is a method for highly diversified and organized land management. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Zach Loeks\, Edible Eco-system Design \n \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/permaculture-for-the-market-gardener/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/9780865718265_cover-e1716813229440.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240722T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240722T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240429T174219Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240429T174219Z
UID:19480-1721658600-1721665800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Pasture-Raised Poultry
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.  \nAre you thinking of starting pasture raised poultry?  Join Eric as he takes us through both the set up and day to day activities of pasture raised chickens as well as the business side of marketing and distribution. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Eric Blondin\, Three Forks Farm
URL:https://efao.ca/event/pasture-raised-poultry/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/hot-weather-is-hard-on-chickens.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240717T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240717T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240429T173510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240429T173510Z
UID:19474-1721226600-1721233800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Farmer Mental Health
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.  \nFarming can be a stressful job. Many aspects of farming come with significant challenges such as high financial risk\, heavy physical labour\, extreme weather and unpredictable supply chains. Unfortunately\, farmers tend to be less likely to seek the help of professionals. Join us for this webinar to find out about programs geared towards helping farmers address their mental health challenges and learn some tips to help you cope with day to day stress. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeakers: \nCanadian Mental Health Association\, Agriculture Wellness Ontario \nRav Singh\, Shade of Miti
URL:https://efao.ca/event/farmer-mental-health/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/20211007_144759-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240715T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240715T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240429T172617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240429T172617Z
UID:19470-1721053800-1721061000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Orchard Care Basics
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.  \nJoin us for a hands-on holistic fruit tree care workshop focused on summer pruning\, and how pruning integrates with key aspects of fruit tree botany and physiology\, pest management strategies\, and other best practices for maintaining a healthy and productive home orchard. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nPlease note\, this event will be available for in person attendance as well as a live Zoom event.  After registration please e-mail farmeducation@ignatiusguelph.ca if you would like to attend in person.  \nSpeaker: Matt Soltys\, The Urban Orchardist \n \n  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/orchard-care-basics-2/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/apple-blossom.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20240715T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20240715T153000
DTSTAMP:20260515T122110
CREATED:20240624T204746Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240624T204923Z
UID:19752-1721052000-1721057400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Mushroom Cultivation with the Wild Basket
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of EFAO’s Indigenous Outreach and Engagement Initiative\, which is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Rural Affairs. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge! Please use the coupon code: INDG2024 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission.  \nJoin Annaleigh Males for an introduction to fungal ecology and mushroom cultivation\, covering both indoor and outdoor methods\, substrate preparation\, and basic maintenance tips for beginners. This session aims to equip participants with foundational knowledge in mushroom production while emphasizing the integration of traditional practices with modern approaches. \nIn addition\, participants will learn about The Wild Basket – an initiative of the Timiskaming First Nation’s natural resources department\, Ni Dakinan – exploring its inception\, values\, and goals. The Wild Basket\, started in 2013\, harvests non-timber forest products to offer a wide-range of items including flavoured carbonated water\, fresh mushrooms\, forest teas\, and mushroom soup. The initiative not only generates revenue but also addresses food security and food sovereignty by empowering community members to take active roles in the sustainable preservation of their territory and in the transfer of traditional knowledge. \nAbout the host \nAnnaleigh Males is a passionate advocate for sustainable ecosystems and preserving the local Temiskaming environment. She works hard to blend her scientific expertise with her cultural roots\, being born and raised in the Temiskaming region as well as being a proud member of Timiskaming First Nation. Currently employed as The Wild Basket Coordinator\, she completed her degree in life sciences and Indigenous studies from Queens University\, and later\, a certificate in Mycology from the University of Victoria. Annaleigh’s work as The Wild Basket Coordinator not only showcases her commitment the Timiskaming traditional territory to but also highlights her dedication to reviving local Indigenous food systems. \nIn order to make our training and community building events accessible to all farmers and future farmers in Ontario\, EFAO strives to reduce financial barriers for registration by using a Pay What You Can model. To register please complete this form!
URL:https://efao.ca/event/mushroom-cultivation-with-the-wild-basket/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/mushrooms-2-e1719261952801.jpeg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR