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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260210T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260210T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251208T172131Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260203T181414Z
UID:53375-1770735600-1770742800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Cover Crops and Green Manures
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Introduction to ecological vegetable growing with Ignatius Farm webinar series offered in partnership between EFAO and Ignatius Farm. You can register for the whole series at a discounted rate here. \nIf you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code COVNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code IND2026 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nCover Crops and Green Manures\nWhat is cover cropping and green manure? This webinar will answer these questions and discuss why they’re used in crop rotations. Learn how this practice can help increase soil health\, crop health\, and soil water retention. Hear from a market gardener how they have used cover crops in their vegetable crop rotation. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeakers\nStephanie Vickers is the Soil Management Specialist for Horticulture Crops with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) based in Vineland\, Ontario. Steph works with growers\, industry\, and researchers to assess practices and technologies that improve soil management and crop production in all of Ontario’s horticulture sectors. Her current projects include trialing under-vine cover crops in commercial vineyards and cover cropping/intercropping options for organic garlic production. \n  \nMartina Schaefer is the founder and sole farmer at Spiral Farm\, a 1/4 acre market garden on rented land in Elora\, running a local CSA program. At this “human scale”\, Martina uses hand tools for just about everything\, including planting and managing cover crops and green manures. She’ll talk about choosing which cover crops to plant\, managing both winter-killed and terminated cover crops without machinery\, and will share some successes and failures she’s had over the past 9 seasons.\n \n  \n  \nThis event is offered in partnership with the Farmers for Climate Solutions’ Farm Resilience Mentorship Program (FaRM) and is a registered Knowledge Sharing Event with the On-Farm Climate Action Fund. Additional resources can be found in the FaRM Learning Hub. \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/cover-crops-and-green-manures-2026/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/wheat-cover-crop-square.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260205T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260205T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20260105T143217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260126T143405Z
UID:53565-1770303600-1770310800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:An Introduction to Seedling Production and Greenhouse Management
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Introduction to ecological vegetable growing with Ignatius Farm webinar series offered in partnership between EFAO and Ignatius Farm. You can register for the whole series at a discounted rate here. \nIf you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code SDLNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code IND2026 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAn Introduction to Seedling Production and Greenhouse Management\nStarting your own seedlings can be challenging. Join this webinar to learn some tips and tricks to producing high quality healthy seedlings as well as good Greenhouse management techniques. Marcelle shares her experience growing seedlings for both her farm and her community. \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Marcelle Paulin\, Sleepy G Farm \n  \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/seedling-production-2026/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260205T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260205T143000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20260105T185719Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T185719Z
UID:53589-1770296400-1770301800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Beyond the Bin: Understanding the Field Crop Seed System
DESCRIPTION:At the Bauta Family Initiative on Canadian Seed Security\, we work toward a future where farmers have the power to save\, improve\, and share the seeds they rely on. That means building a seed system rooted in genetic diversity\, regional adaptation\, and collective care. \nSeed systems are complex—shaped by geography\, labour\, economics\, policy\, and culture. They involve trade-offs. No single model is perfect. This series is about holding space for nuance\, highlighting under-recognized work\, and building shared understanding of the systems that feed us. \nWe invite you to join us—with curiosity and care—as we shine a light behind the packet. \nBeyond the Bin: Understanding the Field Crop Seed System\nBin-run seed\, the portion of the crop that farmers save for next year’s planting\, remains an important part of most farm operations\, but there’s a lot more to the story of where our field crop seed comes from! In this webinar\, we’re turning our attention to field crops— like oats\, dry-beans\, and forages —to ask the question: \nWhere do our seeds come from? \nThis webinar will feature presentations from a public plant breeder\, a certified seed grower and an industry leader. The conversation will provide an overview of how the formal seed system works for different field crops and dig into some of the economic factors. From breeding and variety registration to certified seed production and distribution\, each step plays a critical role to supply farmers with high quality seeds. \nOur seed system also faces specific economic\, regulatory and technical challenges\, especially when it comes to supplying seeds that are regionally-adapted\, genetically diverse\, that thrive in organic and regenerative systems or are meant to supply local and specialty markets. \nWe will discuss the tradeoffs that farmers balance when saving or sourcing their field crop seed\, and explore how we can build more resilience into the seed system that is the backbone of Canadian agriculture. \nSpeakers: \nDr. Jamie Larsen\, AAFC \nHeather Kerschbaumer\, Golden Acre Seeds \nScott Shiels\, Grain Millers
URL:https://efao.ca/event/beyond-the-bin/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260205T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260205T133000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251125T201357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251216T160748Z
UID:53255-1770292800-1770298200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Managerial Bookkeeping
DESCRIPTION:“How do I make more money?” \n“Does it make sense to sell wholesale?” \n“Can I afford to hire employees?” \nYou have so many questions about your business. Believe it or not\, most of these questions are straightforward when you have a good record-keeping system. A good record-keeping system is more than just tracking your sales and expenses for tax day. It’s about knowing and tracking the important numbers for your business so you can improve profitability\, set goals\, and grow your business. In this workshop we’ll talk about the basics of recordkeeping (whether you use Excel or QuickBooks) and what you need to do to easily answer the questions you have about your business and financials. \nThis session will focus on managerial bookkeeping: how to keep good records and how to use those records to make decisions based on financial information from your farm. \nIf you are a farmer or aspiring farmer in the north\, please use code BOOK26 to register for free! \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario. \n \n  \n  \n  \nAbout Julia Shanks\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.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/managerial-bookkeeping/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260204T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260204T140000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20260105T191054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T191935Z
UID:53594-1770206400-1770213600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:The Magic of Zapier for Farmers: Automate More\, Work Less
DESCRIPTION:How many hours per week do you dedicate to managing administrative tasks such as emails to customers\, onboarding new CSA members\, or following up on unpaid invoices? Do you ever think\, “There must be an easier way to do this!”? There is! \nJoin Glen Young from Cold Springs Organics to learn how you could be harnessing the power of automation to make your administrative life easier. Glen will teach farmers how to use free or inexpensive tools to automate a number of common tasks\, taking them off of your plate and freeing your capacity to focus on other aspects of your farm business. Glen will focus on Zapier\, an online tool that can automate a number of behind-the-scenes tasks. He will walk you through other farmers’ automation processes and show you how to build these processes for yourself. Leslie Moskovitz from Cedar Down Farms will provide a real life example of being supported with these automation processes. \nAbout Glen Young\nGlen Young is the owner of Cold Springs Organics\, a certified organic vegetable farm in Port Hope\, Ontario\, serving customers from Cobourg to Toronto through a thriving CSA program\, farmers’ markets\, and prepared foods. Drawing on a professional background in information technology and business process design\, Glen has developed practical\, data-driven systems to track farm costs\, measure profitability\, and streamline operations—bridging ecological farming values with sustainable business management. At Cold Springs Organics\, Glen applies detailed cost of production analysis to guide crop planning\, pricing\, and decision-making\, and implements high-tech labour tracking and farm automation tools such as Zapier to save time\, improve accuracy\, and increase profitability. Passionate about knowledge sharing and committed to a future with many successful small farms\, he combines hands-on farming experience with technical expertise to help other farmers adopt efficient\, scalable\, and resilient systems. \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/the-magic-of-zapier-for-farmers/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260203T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260203T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251208T171401Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T190057Z
UID:53371-1770130800-1770138000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Principles of Harvest and Post-harvest
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Introduction to ecological vegetable growing with Ignatius Farm webinar series offered in partnership between EFAO and Ignatius Farm. You can register for the whole series at a discounted rate here. \nIf you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code HARNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code IND2026 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nPrinciples of Harvest and Post-harvest\nHarvest and post-harvest handling are critical steps to ensure good quality produce with optimal shelf life. Learn important tips on things like harvest hygiene\, timing\, and techniques as well as post-harvest handling\, cooling\, and storage. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Peggy Baillie\, Three Forks Farm \n  \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/principles-of-harvest-2026/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260129T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260129T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251208T170606Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T190129Z
UID:53367-1769698800-1769706000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Field and Bed Preparation
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Introduction to ecological vegetable growing with Ignatius Farm webinar series offered in partnership between EFAO and Ignatius Farm. You can register for the whole series at a discounted rate here. \nIf you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code FLDNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code IND2026 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nField and Bed Preparation\nBefore you can plant\, you need to prepare the soil. This webinar will discuss methods of field and bed preparation\, the dangers of over cultivation\, and innovative no-till options. Primary and secondary tillage equipment will be shown as well as smaller-scale and hand-tool options. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Misha Shodjaee\, Verdant Fields Farm \n  \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/field-and-bed-preparation-2026/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260127T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260127T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251208T165930Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T133524Z
UID:53363-1769526000-1769533200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Soil Health
DESCRIPTION:All Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code IND2026 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nSoil Health\nSoil is the foundation of growing healthy food. Learn the properties of soils and how to maintain and build soil health. We will discuss the types of soils and their attributes\, how to keep soils healthy and what activities contribute to degrading\, maintaining\, and building healthy soils. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Sarah Larsen\, Research and Small Grains Programs Director at Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario \n  \n  \nThis event is part of EFAO’s Indigenous Outreach and Engagement Initiative\, which is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Agribusiness. \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/soil-health-2026/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260122T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260122T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20260105T134655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T135621Z
UID:53557-1769094000-1769101200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Identifying and Controlling Insect Pests
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Introduction to ecological vegetable growing with Ignatius Farm webinar series offered in partnership between EFAO and Ignatius Farm. You can register for the whole series at a discounted rate here. \nIf you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code INSNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code IND2026 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nWeed Management\nUnfortunately we are not the only ones who find our crops tasty! There is a whole world of insects that find our crops delicious or a great home. This webinar gives you a basic understanding of the role of insects in agriculture and how to manage pests throughout the growing season.   \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Farm Educator at Ignatius Farm \n  \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/insect-pests-2026/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260120T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260120T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251208T165217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T190225Z
UID:53359-1768921200-1768928400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Botany for Farmers and Gardeners
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Introduction to ecological vegetable growing with Ignatius Farm webinar series offered in partnership between EFAO and Ignatius Farm. You can register for the whole series at a discounted rate here. \nIf you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code BOTNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code IND2026 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nBotany for Farmers and Gardeners\nThis webinar will provide an introduction to botany for gardeners\, farmers\, and foodies. Topics will include vegetable classification and why this is important\, parts of a plant\, and pollination.  A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Angie Koch\, Fertile Ground Farm \n  \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/botany-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Fresh-Peas-Botany-and-Genetics-e1631114083750.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260115T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260115T203000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251208T164355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T193514Z
UID:53303-1768501800-1768509000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Traditional Ecological Knowledge
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Introduction to ecological vegetable growing with Ignatius Farm webinar series offered in partnership between EFAO and Ignatius Farm. You can register for the whole series at a discounted rate here. \nIf you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code TEKNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code IND2026 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nTraditional Ecological Knowledge\nThis webinar will explore using traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) to understand how Indigenous People see the everyday connections in a living world\, and why it matters for the health and future of the planet. Discover how respecting and incorporating traditional practices can lead to more resilient food systems and a deeper connection to the land we cultivate. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Celeste Smith\, Founder/Director of Cultural seeds and Ga Gitigemi Gamik \n  \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/traditional-ecological-knowledge-2026/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260113T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260113T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251126T155954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T190423Z
UID:53298-1768316400-1768323600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Introduction to Ecological Vegetable Growing
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is part of the Introduction to ecological vegetable growing with Ignatius Farm webinar series offered in partnership between EFAO and Ignatius Farm. You can register for the whole series at a discounted rate here. \nIf you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code ECONORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge – please use the coupon code IND2026 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nIntroduction to Ecological Vegetable Growing\nAre you wanting to grow your own vegetables but are not sure how to get started? Join this webinar for an overview of how to start growing vegetables using ecological principles. Topics will include the basics of getting to know your site\, common tools\, site preparation\, planting\, pest management\, and harvesting.  A recording of this webinar will be available. \n \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Farm Educator at Ignatius Farm \n  \n  \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario. \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/introduction-to-ecological-growing-2026/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251117T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251117T143000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251022T133919Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251113T144052Z
UID:52874-1763384400-1763389800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:CANOVI heat tolerant lettuce trial: results and farm club
DESCRIPTION:This event is offered by the Bauta Family Initiative on Canadian Seed Security along with partners across the country\, including EFAO. \nAt the Bauta Family Initiative on Canadian Seed Security\, we work toward a future where farmers have the power to save\, improve\, and share the seeds they rely on. That means building a seed system rooted in genetic diversity\, regional adaptation\, and collective care. \nSeed systems are complex—shaped by geography\, labour\, economics\, policy\, and culture. They involve trade-offs. No single model is perfect. This series is about holding space for nuance\, highlighting under-recognized work\, and building shared understanding of the systems that feed us. \nWe invite you to join us—with curiosity and care—as we shine a light behind the packet. \n————————————— \nThis year marks the third and final season of CANOVI’s heat-tolerant lettuce variety trials! Growers across the country have shown strong interest not only in trialing lettuce\, but also in repeating trials over multiple years to better understand how varieties perform in an increasingly unpredictable climate. \nAt this CANOVI Farm Club\, we’ll share highlights from three years of trials from combining agronomic data\, weather trends\, and farmer experiences to paint a full picture of what we’ve learned. You’ll also hear insights from UBC researchers\, a geospatial mapping specialist\, and farmers who participated in the trials. \nWe’ll leave plenty of time for questions\, discussion\, and sharing your own trial results. Come ready to talk about which varieties worked best for you in your region.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/canovi-heat-tolerant-lettuce-trial/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251114T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251114T110000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251022T141735Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T011402Z
UID:52881-1763114400-1763118000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Accessible Agriculture Project Overview & Feedback
DESCRIPTION:The Accessible Agriculture Project (AAP) is a new initiative the EFAO is developing alongside Accessibility Consultant Chris Lytle and the Centre for Community Based Research. The goal of the AAP is to learn about and test out how farming can become more accessible for workers with disabilities. AAP team members will host a one-hour webinar focused on building an agricultural sector that is inclusive of people with disabilities. At the webinar\, we will overview the project plan and discuss the legislative context. We will also have a discussion and launch a short survey to help us learn from farmers who have experienced injury and accessibility issues. \nIn its early stages of development\, the intention of AAP is to learn about how to make farming more inclusive and accessible as a means of livelihood for people with disabilities. Our aim is to compile evidence and information that will be of use to agricultural NGOs\, farms\, farmers\, and varying levels of government. To do so\, we hope to run accessibility workshops with EFAO members and have partnered with Heartwood Farm to explore innovative ways that accessibility can be reasonably implemented in a “pilot” project on-site. The intended outcome of this research is to build strategies for the development of accessible training\, best practices\, resources and practical work opportunities for people with disabilities.  As a partner in this project\, EFAO has been considering how farming communities can transform and be transformed by our evolving understanding of disability. The Centre for Community Based Research is also providing support as we develop the project and seek resources. As the project unfolds\, we hope to include in the project other agricultural and educational organizations\, technology firms\, and groups that represent people with disabilities.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/accessible-agriculture-project-overview-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251104T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251104T140000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250929T213258Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T213258Z
UID:22779-1762257600-1762264800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Facilitating Great (Farm) Team Meetings
DESCRIPTION:Meetings don’t have to be painful! Join this interactive session to learn how to plan\, structure and run a team meeting that is effective\, productive and joyful. \nIn this workshop\, guided by Maddie Marmor\, we will work through scenarios so that you leave equipped with practical skills to build morale and team cohesion on your farm. You will receive a template of how to run a meeting as well as tips and strategies to keep a meeting moving towards concrete and achievable next steps. Participants will gain insights from Nonviolent Communication practices\, facilitation training\, and other practical frameworks and strategies that support great teamwork and the efficiency that comes with solid communication. This session is back by popular demand after drawing a packed room at the 2024 EFAO conference. Even if you attended this session at the conference\, the online venue and new attendees will make for continued learning and discussion. \nMadeline Marmor is currently based in Tkaronto/Toronto and is a first generation\, landless farmer\, facilitator and Circle keeper. Having organized at the intersection of food\, land\, climate and justice for just under a decade\, Madeline works with other movement witches\, educators\, farmers and community hosts to hold space for the emergence of a just\, more equitable (food) future\, which she thinks is completely possible\, if not inevitable!
URL:https://efao.ca/event/facilitating-great-team-meetings-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/DSC_0371-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251028T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251028T163000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20251015T191603Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251015T191603Z
UID:52747-1761663600-1761669000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Behind the Packet: Open-Pollinated Seeds in Focus
DESCRIPTION:This event is offered by the Bauta Family Initiative on Canadian Seed Security along with partners across the country\, including EFAO. \nAt the Bauta Family Initiative on Canadian Seed Security\, we work toward a future where farmers have the power to save\, improve\, and share the seeds they rely on. That means building a seed system rooted in genetic diversity\, regional adaptation\, and collective care. \nSeed systems are complex—shaped by geography\, labour\, economics\, policy\, and culture. They involve trade-offs. No single model is perfect. This series is about holding space for nuance\, highlighting under-recognized work\, and building shared understanding of the systems that feed us. \nWe invite you to join us—with curiosity and care—as we shine a light behind the packet. \n————————————— \nOpen-pollinated (OP) seeds are foundational to seed sovereignty\, climate resilience\, and food systems grounded in place and culture. Valued for their adaptability\, complex flavours\, and the freedom they offer to save and share seed\, OP varieties remain essential tools for farmers and gardeners navigating a changing world. \nYet behind every thriving OP variety lies a network of dedicated producers\, often overlooked and under-supported. As seed companies increasingly pivot toward hybrid development and away from maintaining OP lines\, many tried-and-true varieties are being lost. Meanwhile\, the farmers and breeders who continue to steward these seeds—often informally or through grassroots networks—are not only preserving diversity but also creating the heirlooms of tomorrow. \nWho is ensuring that high-quality OP seed remains available? What does it take—biologically\, technically\, and economically—to produce and maintain these varieties year after year? Why are so many of them disappearing\, and what is at stake if they do? \nIn this webinar\, we’ll explore the complexities and urgency of open-pollinated seed production today. From the hands-on work of seed growers to the systemic forces shaping seed availability\, we’ll examine the barriers\, possibilities\, and values embedded in these seeds—and why their future matters to us all. \nSpeakers: \n\nLisa Mumm of Mumm’s Sprouting Seeds\nAaron Varadi of High Mowing\nEdmund Frost (Common Wealth Seed Growers and Twin Oaks Seed Farm)
URL:https://efao.ca/event/behind-the-packet-open-pollinated-seeds-in-focus/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/9.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251023T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251023T203000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250828T171612Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T171700Z
UID:22549-1761244200-1761251400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring a New Enterprise Webinar Series with Ignatius Farm: Keeping Sheep
DESCRIPTION:If you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code SHEEPNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code INDIG2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of the webinar series Exploring a New Enterprise with Ignatius Farm. \n\nWebinar Description:\nHave you been wanting to keep livestock?  How about sheep!  Join Brenda Hsueh as she talks us through starting a sheep farm\, the challenges and benefits.  Brenda and her family run Black Sheep Farm; an organic farm\, raising sheep on pasture for lamb meat\, fibre\, and tanned lambskins. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Brenda Hsueh\, Black Sheep Farm\, Chesley \nBlack Sheep Farm is an organic farm\, raising sheep on pasture for lamb meat\, fibre\, and tanned lambskins. The farm was started by Brenda Hsueh in 2009\, a Canadian-born Chinese woman\, who left a financial career in downtown Toronto to start farming. Eventually\, she met Skyler\, from the farm around the corner\, who took an interest in the sheep side of the farm and has been growing it ever since. Black Sheep Farm is an agroecological farm\, prioritizing soil health\, biodiversity\, and social justice. The sheep are grazed on pasture using intensive managed grazing\, to maximize the positive soil carbon capture benefits of ruminants\, while producing food and fibre from something humans can’t eat\, grass. \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/exploring-a-new-enterprise-keeping-sheep/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Black-sheep-farm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251021T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251021T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250828T171032Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250911T132729Z
UID:22545-1761058800-1761066000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring a New Enterprise Webinar Series with Ignatius Farm: Starting a Value-added Enterprise
DESCRIPTION:If you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code VALNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code INDIG2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of the webinar series Exploring a New Enterprise with Ignatius Farm. \n\nWebinar Description:\nAre you considering adding value added products to your inventory? Want to hear from farmers that have taken the leap? Join us for this panel discussion where we will hear from 3 farmers who produce value added products; what do they produce\, how did they start out\, and what advice would they give to those in the planning stages. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nPanelists: Steve D’Alimonte\, Picollo Farm Organics\, Guelph; Xiaobing Shen\, Long Road Eco Farm; TBA \nPiccolo Farm Organics (PFO) is owned and operated by Steve D’Alimonte & Lisa Lopez in the backyard of their property in Guelph. On a quarter of an acre\, PFO aims to demonstrate that by using non-mechanized and regenerative farming methods\, food can be flavourful and healthy to both people and planet. PFO is also a celebration of heritage by showing that culturally specific vegetable varieties from around the world can and should be grown locally. PFO primarily grows Italian varieties of vegetables or vegetables commonly used in Italian cuisine. They also offer focaccia\, pasta and sauces made with ingredients grown on the farm. \n  \nIn 2013\, Xiaobing Shen and his then partner Jonathon Davies started Long Road Eco-Farm\, a small\, mixed\, ecologically-run farm business raising livestock and growing specialty crops like ginger and garlic. Farm Sum Food is a key part of their business. They produce prepared peasant-style Chinese steamed buns\, dumplings\, and ferments with organically produced pork\, eggs\, vegetables and herbs from their farm\, and sell at Memorial Centre Farmers Market. Farm tours\, forest walks\, and popular cooking classes are also part of their offering to the community. \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/exploring-a-new-enterprise-value-added/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251016T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251016T203000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250828T170243Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T130735Z
UID:22541-1760639400-1760646600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring a New Enterprise Webinar Series with Ignatius Farm: Beekeeping 101
DESCRIPTION:If you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code BEENORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code INDIG2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of the webinar series Exploring a New Enterprise with Ignatius Farm. \n\nWebinar Description:\nInterested in beekeeping? Join Ron to learn about the basics of keeping bees\, what you need to get started and some common challenges for beginners. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Ron St Louis\, Capital Bees\, Ottawa \nRon is a member of Dokis First Nation in northern Ontario\, currently living in Ottawa and operating his business\, Capital Bees\, at the Just Food Farm. He has been keeping bees since 2011 and teaching a hands-on\, natural beekeeping program since 2015. He is a registered beekeeper and breeds bees to be resistant to pests and diseases and has been a member of the Ontario Resistant Honey Bee Selection program (ORHBS) since 2017. \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/exploring-a-new-enterprise-beekeeping-101/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Bees-close-up.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251009T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251009T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250828T165531Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T165647Z
UID:22535-1760022000-1760029200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring a New Enterprise Webinar Series with Ignatius Farm: Starting a Winter CSA
DESCRIPTION:If you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code CSANORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code INDIG2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of the webinar series Exploring a New Enterprise with Ignatius Farm. \n\nWebinar Description:\nAre you thinking about shifting to a winter CSA model? Hear from Marcelle and Brendan on how they started their winter CSA and how it was a game changer for their farm profitability. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeakers: Brendan Grant & Marcelle Paulin\, Sleepy G Farm\, Pass Lake \nSince 2010\, Brendan and Marcelle have been operating Sleepy G Farm in Pass Lake\, ON\, 45km east of Thunder Bay. They grow 8 acres of Certified Organic vegetables and distribute through a 200-member CSA program in addition to wholesaling to grocery stores.  Sleepy G Farm also produces eggs and beef as a complement to nearly year-round vegetables sales that are made possible by an on-farm winter vegetable storage facility. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how they have turned a 171 acre abandoned dairy farm in northwestern Ontario into a thriving\, diversified farm business and the infrastructure they’ve put in place to support their operations. \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/exploring-a-new-enterprise-starting-a-winter-csa/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/peter-wendt-r5KSMkyoSc-unsplash.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250828T153234Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T170343Z
UID:22527-1759849200-1759856400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring a New Enterprise Webinar Series with Ignatius Farm: Growing Indoor Mushrooms
DESCRIPTION:If you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code MUSHNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code INDIG2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of the webinar series Exploring a New Enterprise with Ignatius Farm. \n\nWebinar Description:\nAre you curious about growing mushrooms indoors on a commercial scale? Ugly Barn Farms grows several kinds of mushrooms in their indoor facility\, which is heated by renewable materials. Hear about how they got started and what it takes to grow mushrooms indoors. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Ivan Vincent\, Ugly Barn Farm\, Markstay \nUgly Barn Farm is a small family farm based in northern Ontario and one of the first\, year-round mushroom facilities in the north. At the Ugly Barn Farm\, Ivan and Brittany specialize in gourmet mushrooms\, cultivated in their mushroom growing facility\, heated by renewable materials. They produce their mushrooms without the use of pesticides and source as much material locally as possible. They are also passionate in wildcrafted foods like blueberries\, fiddleheads\, spruce buds\, and of course mushrooms! \n  \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/exploring-a-new-enterprise-mushrooms/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/104277327_4228106343874134_8071495015502706607_o.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251002T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251002T170000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250828T125344Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T153326Z
UID:22516-1759417200-1759424400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring a New Enterprise Webinar Series with Ignatius Farm: Starting a Flower Farm
DESCRIPTION:If you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code FLOWNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code INDIG2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of the webinar series Exploring a New Enterprise with Ignatius Farm. \n\nWebinar Description:\nLocal and ecological flowers are a high valuable crop to grow and are more and more popular over the conscious consumers. Join us for this webinar where we discuss how to efficiently and successfully begin growing or add floral crops to your current production system\, using ecological growing practices. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Theresa Schumilas\, Garden Party Flower Farm\, St. Agatha Theresa owns Garden Party Flower Farm\, a 4 acre specialty cut flower farm outside of Kitchener-Waterloo\, where she has farmed organically for over 30 years. She completed her PhD in economic geography at the University of Waterloo in 2014\, followed by postdoctoral studies in the digitization of food and farming systems\, at the Laurier Centre for Sustainable Food Systems. \n  \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/exploring-a-new-enterprise-flower-farm/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/khara-woods-WsUB9nalhfk-unsplash.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250925T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250925T203000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250903T130432Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T130432Z
UID:22574-1758825000-1758832200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring a New Enterprise Webinar Series with Ignatius Farm: Growing Medicinal Herbs
DESCRIPTION:If you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code HERBNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nIf you identify as an Indigenous grower\, land steward or community member\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code INDIG2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of the webinar series Exploring a New Enterprise with Ignatius Farm. \n\nWebinar Description:\nJoin Shabina as she shares her experience with  growing herbs for medicine and tea. How is growing herbs different from vegetables\, harvest and drying techniques\, as well as tips and tricks she has found useful. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Shabina Lafleur-Gangji\, co-director of Seed\, Soil and Spirit School\, Guelph \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. \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/exploring-a-new-enterprise-growing-medicinal-herbs/
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.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250923T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250923T203000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250828T124521Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T143258Z
UID:22512-1758652200-1758659400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring a New Enterprise Webinar Series with Ignatius Farm: Pastured Poultry Production
DESCRIPTION:If you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code POULNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. All Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code INDIG2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. This webinar is part of the webinar series Exploring a New Enterprise with Ignatius Farm. \n\nWebinar Description:\nAre you thinking of starting out with 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. Speaker: Eric Blondin\, Three Forks Farm\, Gore Bay Eric Blondin and Peggy Baillie are the co-owners of Three Forks Farms\, a certified organic farm on Manitoulin Island\, Ontario. Since 2015\, they have focused on growing organic vegetables\, raising pasture-fed poultry\, and developing regionally adapted seeds suited to Northern Ontario’s climate. Their farm operates with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability\, community food security\, and financial viability.With over a decade of experience in local food systems\, Eric and Peggy have built a farm that extends the growing season using polytunnels and innovative crop planning. They sell their produce through on-farm sales\, farmers’ markets\, a CSA program\, and wholesale partnerships with retailers and restaurants. Passionate about seed saving and regenerative agriculture\, they continue to support local growers by providing high-quality seeds and knowledge to strengthen food resilience in the North.   This webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/exploring-a-new-enterprise-pastured-poultry/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/three-forks-1-475x277-1-e1758551535118.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250918T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250918T203000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250826T172238Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T172238Z
UID:22505-1758220200-1758227400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring a New Enterprise Webinar Series with Ignatius Farm: Pasture-raised Pork
DESCRIPTION:If you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code PORKNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code INDIG2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of the webinar series Exploring a New Enterprise with Ignatius Farm. \n\nWebinar Description:\nMany consumers are drawn to the health benefits and premium quality of pasture raised meats – both excellent reasons to raise animals on grass. Join Josh for this discussion about how he got started and what it takes to successfully raise pasture pork. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Joshua Noiseux\, Evermeadow Farm\, Cobourg \nJoshua Noiseux is a philosopher ecologist with “boots on the ground”.  After years in academia\, studying the philosophy and political theory of ecology and agency\, Josh put his PhD thesis on on hold to start Evermeadow Farm in 2020. He holds an MA in political and cultural theory and has worked in diverse trades\, including gold exploration and arboriculture.  Now a respected voice in the regenerative agriculture space\, Josh has guest lectured at Ivey Business School\, Trent and Queen’s Universities\, and presented at numerous conferences and panels\, including with the Ecologicial Farmer’s of Ontario (EFAO) and the National Farmers Union (NFU).  Entering his 5th year at the helm of Evermeadow\, Josh is looking forward to further actualizing his vision of landscape scale ecological restoration\, and deepening community resilience through the marriage of environmental conservation and agricultural production. \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario. \n \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/pasture-raised-pork-2025/
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-1-4.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250916T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250916T203000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250826T170515Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T170548Z
UID:22470-1758047400-1758054600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring a New Enterprise Webinar Series with Ignatius Farm: Starting a Seed Production Enterprise
DESCRIPTION:If you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code SEEDNORTH when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code INDIG2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of the webinar series Exploring a New Enterprise with Ignatius Farm. \n\nWebinar Description:\nAre you considering saving and selling seeds as part of your farm business? Hear how Peggy from Three Forks Farm got started and her advice on how to start a seed production business. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Peggy Baillie\, Three Forks Farm\, Gore Bay \nPeggy Baillie and Eric Blondin are the co-owners of Three Forks Farms\, a certified organic farm on Manitoulin Island\, Ontario. Since 2015\, they have focused on growing organic vegetables\, raising pasture-fed poultry\, and developing regionally adapted seeds suited to Northern Ontario’s climate. Their farm operates with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability\, community food security\, and financial viability.With over a decade of experience in local food systems\, Eric and Peggy have built a farm that extends the growing season using polytunnels and innovative crop planning. They sell their produce through on-farm sales\, farmers’ markets\, a CSA program\, and wholesale partnerships with retailers and restaurants. Passionate about seed saving and regenerative agriculture\, they continue to support local growers by providing high-quality seeds and knowledge to strengthen food resilience in the North. \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario. \n \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/enterprise-seed-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_4836_Original-1024x768-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250829T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250830T163000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250808T190915Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250811T133159Z
UID:22429-1756494000-1756571400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Seeds of Change: Discussion and Tour
DESCRIPTION:This event is hosted by Lakehead University’s Sustainable Food Systems Lab in partnership with the Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario\, Roots Community Food Centre\, Superior Seed Producers\, Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority\, Lake Superior Living Labs Network\,  Understanding Our Food Systems\, the Food Action Network of Northwestern Ontario\, Gaia Organic Seeds\, and Root Cellar Gardens. \nJoin local seed producers\, researchers\, and gardeners for part (or all!) of this 2-day event celebrating our community and collective ability to protect our seeds\, grow food and community\, and learn together. \n  \nFriday August 29\, 7:00pm to 8:30pm: Local to Global Perspectives on Seed Sovereignty Panel Discussion (online\, or in-person) \nJoin us for a roundtable discussion exploring the vital role that seeds play in food systems\, culture\, and sovereignty. Speakers will weave together stories\, struggles\, and strategies from across Ontario\, Indigenous territories and global movements including the upcoming Nyéléni Food Sovereignty Forum. From the ground beneath our feet to international efforts for seed justice\, this discussion connects diverse voices committed to protecting and reclaiming seeds and our food systems for future generations. \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.  \n  \nSaturday August 30\, 10:00am – 4:30pm: Field Tours and Watermelon Tasting (in person) \nThis Saturday event will begin at Roots Community Food Centre Lillie Street Garden at 125 Lillie St.\, Thunder Bay at 10:00am. Field tours will conclude at Root Cellar Gardens in South Gillies at 3:30pm. Return to Lillie Street Garden by 4:30pm. Please indicate when registering if you require transportation.   \nJoin us for a day of celebrating and exploring what happens when diverse seeds and people come together. Learn about ongoing collaborative projects to grow various crops that thrive in our region and why this work is so important. See these adapting crops in three locations (Roots Community Food Centre’s Lillie Street garden\, Lakehead University Agricultural Research Station\, and Root Cellar Gardens). Be a part of the breeding process by tasting locally grown watermelons and helping select which seeds to save and replant next year.  \nSnacks will be provided\, but participants are advised to bring a lunch and a water bottle. This event will take place rain or shine\, so dress for the weather!  \n \nAlso…find us at the Hymers Fall Fair on Sunday August 31 and Monday September 1\, 2025! Stop by our booth to say “hi”\, taste some watermelon and take one home\, have your say in the collaborative adaptive breeding project. (Note: There is an admission fee of $10 to the Hymers Fall Fair.) 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/seeds-of-change/
LOCATION:Multiple Venues
CATEGORIES:Field Day,Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2235-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250417T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250417T160000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250311T200909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250311T200909Z
UID:21463-1744900200-1744905600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Land-Sharing for Resilient Communities Part 2
DESCRIPTION:All Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge! Please use the coupon code LANDSHARE2 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nJoin us for this two-part webinar series with Jennifer Nobel\, an experienced permaculture practitioner\, ecological homestead designer\, and land steward. Whether you are just starting to explore land-sharing or are seriously considering it as a pathway to land access\, these sessions will provide valuable insights and practical guidance. Attend one or both—each session offers unique knowledge\, but together they create a foundation for successful land-sharing arrangements. \nPart 2: Legal Considerations\, Design & Infrastructure\, Finance\, Security \nAs farmland prices soar and barriers to entry into agriculture increase\, many aspiring farmers and land-based entrepreneurs are turning to land-sharing as a creative and viable solution. But while shared land arrangements can offer exciting opportunities\, they also require careful planning to ensure long-term success. \nIn Part 2 of this two-part webinar series\, Jennifer Nobel—author of the upcoming book Land-Sharing: A Beginner’s Guide—will dive into the practical and legal realities of land-sharing. Drawing from her own experience navigating bylaws\, agreements\, and alternative living solutions\, Jennifer will provide attendees with essential knowledge to move forward confidently in structuring and sustaining land-sharing projects. \nWhat You’ll Learn: \nLegal Considerations – Key legal aspects of land-sharing\, including bylaws\, zoning\, lease agreements\, and cooperative structures. \nDesign & Infrastructure – Planning functional shared spaces\, from housing to common-use facilities.= \nFinance & Funding – Strategies for funding\, structuring member contributions\, and exploring alternative income streams. \nSecurity – Ensuring fair agreements\, legal protections\, and a safe living environment for all participants. \nWhether you’re in the early stages of land-sharing exploration or ready to take action\, this session will equip you with the beginner knowledge needed to successfully navigate the complexities of starting and maintaining a land-sharing venture. \n \nJennifer Nobel is an experienced Metis permaculture practitioner\, ecological homestead designer\, and passionate land steward with over a decade of experience in studying\, practicing\, and teaching ecological living practices. Holding a degree in architecture\, Jennifer initially pursued retail design\, however\, quickly realized fulfillment came from living on the land and designing land-based projects. In 2020\, her family’s aspirations of owning an acreage were thwarted by the rising cost of land. Determined to make her vision a reality\, Jennifer spent the last five years navigating complex bylaws\, building codes\, and alternative living solutions through land-sharing agreements. These experiences not only provided a low-cost way to live but also allowed her family to save up to purchase their own property. Having purchased some land\, Jennifer is excited to offer others the same opportunities\, sharing her wisdom on communal living\, building vibrant communities\, and generating extra income through land sharing. \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/land-sharing-for-resilient-communities-part-2-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250415T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250415T140000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250407T140407Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250415T154457Z
UID:21599-1744722000-1744725600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Greenhouse Lightning Talks: Northern Perspectives
DESCRIPTION: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. \nGreenhouses 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. \nOrganized 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. \nWhat to expect: \nGreenhouse 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. \nYou’ll hear about: \n\nPractical greenhouse designs and technologies for northern climates\nReal-life adaptations to cold-weather growing challenges\nHow greenhouses support community food programs and sovereignty\nLessons and advice for growers and communities looking to start similar projects\n\n  \nSchedule: \n\n1:00 PM – Welcome & Introduction (Rachel\, EFAO)\n1:05 – 1:20 PM – Mnogin Greenhouse (Nipissing First Nation)\n1:20 – 1:35 PM – Niigaaniin Greenhouse Project (North Shore Tribal Council)\n1:35 – 1:50 PM – Three Forks Farm (Manitoulin Island\, with Eric Blondin)\n1:50 – 2:00 PM – Open Q&A\n\n\nSpeakers: \nNiigaaniin Greenhouse Project \nLed 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. \nMnogin Greenhouse – Nipissing First Nation \nUsing 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. \nThree Forks Farm – Manitoulin Island \nOwned 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. \n  \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/greenhouse-lightning-talks-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250414T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250414T200000
DTSTAMP:20260514T102815
CREATED:20250319T135704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250319T161257Z
UID:21531-1744655400-1744660800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Build Your Own Air Pruning Beds
DESCRIPTION:In this webinar\, participants will learn how to build their own simple and inexpensive air pruning beds with basic carpentry skills and equipment. These beds make it possible to grow hundreds of tree seedlings in small spaces with very low costs. Participants will learn the basics of collecting and storing tree seed\, and step-by-step instructions for starting many tree species from seed or cuttings. The webinar will focus in particular on tree species that are valuable as livestock fodder or for fruit and nut production. \nThe knowledge gained in this workshop will allow participants to build their air pruning beds in the spring\, summer\, or early fall\, in time for starting trees this fall. \nWant to know more? Why air pruning?  \nAir pruning is a technique for developing healthy\, fibrous\, non-circling and non-girdling root structures in trees and plants raised in a nursery setting. Air pruning beds use air to prune and shape root systems. Trees and plants can be grown from seed\, cuttings or root divisions while still preserving a healthy tap root and creating a highly-branched root structure characteristic of a tree or plant grown from seed in-place. \n  \nAir pruned root systems have a much higher survival and rate of thriving in comparison with pot-grown root systems. Air pruning beds also offer protection from pests\, and support seedlings to grow faster and maintain healthy tap roots\, which is important for survival in harsh environments and challenging to do in pot-grown trees. Trees grown in air pruning beds have a reduced need for staking\, and have grown in healthier soil through improved drainage. \n  \n  \nMeet the Speaker: \nKevin Barkhouse is a nature lover and a certified seed collector with the Forest Gene Conservation Association. For the past five years\, he has been growing trees and shrubs from seed in his backyard nursery\, focusing on native species. Through careful collection and propagation\, he contributes to biodiversity and reforestation efforts by donating his trees to various planting projects. His hands-on experience and deep appreciation for the natural world make him a dedicated advocate for growing trees from seed.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/build-your-own-air-pruning-beds-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
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