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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260210T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260210T170000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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:20260504T020758
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/IMG_0347-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260205T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260205T143000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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:20260504T020758
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:20260504T020758
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:20260504T020758
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/firstharvest-9.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260129T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260129T170000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Permabeds-e1725636716715.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260128T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260128T203000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20260126T225805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T145048Z
UID:53727-1769626800-1769632200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:January BIPOC Farmers Network Meet-up
DESCRIPTION:Join the January BIPOC Farmer Meetup!  \nJoin us for a friendly gathering for farmers\, aspiring farmers\, farm workers and food justice workers who are Black\, Indigenous and people of colour. This meetup will focus on global farmer solidarity & agroecology\, and how local farming realities connect to global movements for food sovereignty\, justice\, and collective care. \nThe format will be relaxed and conversational. We’ll have a short opening reflection\, followed by a short presentation / discussion and Q&A. This is a space to listen\, reflect\, and connect. \nAs always\, bring a question you’re curious about – from Global farmer solidarity to getting started on rented land\, sourcing cultural seeds\, winter community events\, prepping new land or building high tunnels\, cultural crop planning\, and managing time and workload. \nLooking forward to gathering!
URL:https://efao.ca/event/january-bipoc-farmers-network-meet-up-2026/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Meet-up
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260127T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260127T170000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Soil.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260126T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260126T130000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20260119T165027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T170000Z
UID:53656-1769428800-1769432400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:January Seed Growers Meet-up
DESCRIPTION:Join the January Seed Grower Meetup!  \nJanuary is a quieter month in the fields\, but a busy one for seed growers’ minds. Despite the cold and snow\, the days are slowly getting longer\, and many of us are finishing seed cleaning\, checking germination\, organizing jars and envelopes\, and taking stock of what this year’s crops have taught us. It’s also a time when growers begin planning ahead — thinking about what local seeds to plant in the coming season and which crops might be grown out for seed. \nThis informal lunchtime Seed Growers Meetup is a space to connect with other growers and seed-curious folks and share where you’re at in the process. Whether you’re still threshing and winnowing\, reviewing notes from last season\, or starting to imagine 2026 grow-outs\, bring your questions\, observations\, and half-formed ideas. \nTogether we’ll talk about how seed cleaning\, storage\, and testing are going\, what lessons are emerging from the past season\, early thoughts and questions for the year ahead\, and upcoming seed-related events and ways to get involved. As always\, the goal of this meetup is to learn together and support one another in growing a wide diversity of high-quality seed in the quantities growers need. \nBring your lunch\, your seed stories\, and your curiosity. This monthly meetup is free for EFAO members and open to non-members. Growers of all experience levels — from long-time seed producers to those just starting out — are warmly welcome. \nLet’s gather mid-winter\, share what we’re noticing\, and keep building our seed-growing knowledge together.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/january-seed-growers-meet-up-2/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260122T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260122T170000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/images-29.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260121T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260203T140000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20251127T192757Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T142929Z
UID:53328-1768996800-1770127200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Marketing Bootcamp: Strategies and Inspiration for Your Marketing Plans
DESCRIPTION:Two weeks\, two sessions\, one helpful coach to get your marketing plan in order for 2026! \nLed by Brent Klassen of Heartwood Farm & Cidery\, a supportive and experienced farmer and marketing coach\, this two part interactive learning experience is designed to help you overcome barriers and be inspired to create and implement an effective marketing strategy for your farm. Participants should have a strong sense of their products and markets\, but are looking to grow sales\, diversify marketing channels and grow their business. Farms of all types\, scales and product offerings will find these sessions helpful – including fruits\, vegetables\, field crops\, livestock and agritourism/on-farm experiences.  Only the first session will be recorded and shared\, but to make the most of this experience\, it is essential that participants attend both sessions live.  Registration for both sessions is included in event registration. \nJanuary 21 – Session 1: Learning and Inspiration \nIn the first session\, Brent will share marketing strategy case studies\, including plans\, implementation and results. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss ideas related to their own marketing plans. Participants will leave session one with a list of prompting questions to work on their own plans before session two\, with an opportunity to stay connected to coaches and peers by email. \nFebruary 3 – Session 2: Workshopping Your Ideas \nIn session two\, participants will have the opportunity to workshop their marketing strategies and ideas\, and receive feedback from their peers and coach in real time. Along the way\, participants will pick up helpful tips\, expert advice\, and tons of inspiration for creating effective marketing strategies. \nThis two-part workshop is for you if: \n\nYou run an established farm business and want to see it go to the next level\, with improved sales and marketing; or\nYour farm business sales aren’t performing to the level you want or need\, and you’re looking for support to troubleshoot and take your business and marketing up a notch; or\nYou have an existing farm business and are looking to embark on selling new products or services; or\nYou are starting a new farm business with a strong sense of your product(s) and market\, but want to workshop your ideas to get started on solid footing.\n\nThis is a unique opportunity to join a supportive learning environment with engaged peers and coaching. Leave with new ideas and inspirations and an actionable plan to strategically address your farm business’ 4Ps for 2026. If you’re looking for an opportunity to reboot or finesse your marketing plan just ahead of the 2026 season\, this is it! \nAbout Brent: \nBrent Klassen and his wife Val Steinmann produce grass-fed livestock\, orchard fruits\, maple syrup\, and\, of course\, craft cider\, on their farm in Erin. Prior to establishing the cidery\, Brent was the founding partner of two marketing firms: Blue North Strategies and Blue ID. Brent has also served on EFAO’s Board of Directors. \n  \n  \nThis webinar is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario. \n \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/marketing-bootcamp-26/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Course
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260120T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260120T170000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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:20260504T020758
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:20260224T170000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20251126T153045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T144539Z
UID:53229-1768316400-1771952400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Introduction to Ecological Vegetable Growing with Ignatius Farm
DESCRIPTION:This webinar series is offered in partnership between EFAO and Ignatius Farm. Register for the whole webinar series at a discounted rate here or register for individual events by visiting efao.ca/events. \nIf you live in northern Ontario\, you are welcome to attend this workshop 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 workshop free of charge – please use the coupon code IND2026 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \n  \nIntroduction to Ecological Vegetable Growing with Ignatius Farm\nHave you been dreaming about growing your own vegetables? Whether you are starting a home garden\, community garden\, or a small market garden we will walk you through the important aspects to consider before you start. \nFeaturing experienced farmers in northern Ontario\, this webinar series is designed for new and beginning farmers in the north\, but all are welcome to join! \nWebinars are recorded to allow participants to watch on their own time. Recordings will be emailed to registrants after the event. \n\nTuesday Jan 13\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm: Introduction to ecological growing\nThursday Jan 15\, 6:30pm – 8:30pm: Traditional ecological knowledge\nTuesday Jan 20\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm: Botany for farmers and gardeners\nThursday Jan 22\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm: Identifying and controlling insect pests\nTuesday Jan 27\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm: Soil health\nThursday Jan 29\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm: Field and bed preparation\nTuesday Feb 3\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm: Principles of harvest and post-harvest\nThursday Feb 5\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm: Seedling production\nTuesday Feb 10\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm: Cover crops and green manures\nThursday Feb 12\, 6:30pm – 8:30pm: Irrigation basics\nThursday Feb 19\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm: Weed management\nTuesday Feb 24\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm: Vegetable crop disease management\n\n  \nIntroduction to ecological growing \nTuesday Jan 13\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm \n \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.   \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Farm Educator at Ignatius Farm \n  \nTraditional ecological knowledge \nThursday Jan 15\, 6:30pm – 8:30pm \n \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.   \nSpeaker: Celeste Smith\, Founder/Director of Cultural seeds and Ga Gitigemi Gamik \n  \nBotany for farmers and gardeners \nTuesday Jan 20\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm \n \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.   \nSpeaker: Angie Koch\, Fertile Ground Farm \n  \nIdentifying and controlling insect pests \nThursday Jan 22\, 3;00pm – 5:00pm \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.  \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Farm Educator at Ignatius Farm. \n  \nSoil health \nTuesday Jan 27\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm \n \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.  \nSpeaker: Sarah Larsen\, Research and Small Grains Programs Director at Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario \n  \nField and bed preparation \nThursday Jan 29\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm \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.  \nSpeaker: Misha Shodjaee\, Verdant Fields Farm \n  \nPrinciples of harvest and post-harvest \nTuesday Feb 3\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm \n \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.  \nSpeaker: Peggy Baillie\, Three Forks Farm \n  \nSeedling production \nThursday Feb 5\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm \n Starting 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.\n \nSpeaker: Marcelle Paulin\, Sleepy G Farm \n  \nCover crops and green manures \nTuesday Feb 10\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm \n \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.  \nSpeakers: Stephanie Vickers\, Horticulture Sustainability Specialist\, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Agribusiness & Martina Schaefer from Spiral Farm \n  \nIrrigation Basics \nThursday Feb 12\, 6:30pm – 8:30pm \n \nAn introduction to the importance of irrigation on farms\, water stress on plants\, when to irrigate and how much. Participants can expect to learn about different irrigation options\, discuss troubleshooting and where to source parts. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Brendan Grant\, Sleepy G Farm \n  \nWeed management \nThursday Feb 19\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm \n \nWhat are some common weeds and how do we manage them on a farm? This webinar will introduce the importance of managing weeds\, the basics of weed identification\, and various preventative and reactive control measures.   \nSpeaker: Mike Smith\, Guelph Centre for Urban Organic Agriculture \n  \nVegetable crop disease management  \nTuesday Feb 24\, 3:00pm – 5:00pm \nIdentifying and managing plant diseases can be tricky. Join us for this introduction into what plant diseases are\, how to identify them\, and what you can do to prevent and control them.  \nSpeaker: Katie Goldehar\, Pathologist – Horticulture Crops\, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Agribusiness \n  \n  \nThis webinar series is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario. \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/intro-to-ecological-vegetable-growing/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Course
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260113T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260113T170000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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:20260107T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260107T140000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20251103T153727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251103T153727Z
UID:53025-1767790800-1767794400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Farmer-Led Research Program Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:It’s that time of year again—time to start shaping your questions and curiosities into research ideas!  \nEFAO research team will be holding open virtual office hours in December and January for prospective farmer-led research applicants to ask questions and discuss their applications. If you can not make these hours please feel free to schedule an appointment with one of our research team members. \n  \nContact for appointment at another time: \nSarah Larsen\, Research Director\, sarah@efao.ca \nRebecca Ivanoff\, Seed Program Manager\, rebecca@efao.ca \nJessica Gale\, Knowledge Mobilization Manager\, jessica@efao.ca
URL:https://efao.ca/event/reesarch-program-office-hours-2025-3/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3431-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251217T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251217T120000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20251103T153235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251103T153235Z
UID:53021-1765969200-1765972800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Farmer-Led Research Program Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:It’s that time of year again—time to start shaping your questions and curiosities into research ideas!  \nEFAO research team will be holding open virtual office hours in December and January for prospective farmer-led research applicants to ask questions and discuss their applications. If you can not make these hours please feel free to schedule an appointment with one of our research team members. \n  \nContact for appointment at another time: \nSarah Larsen\, Research Director\, sarah@efao.ca \nRebecca Ivanoff\, Seed Program Manager\, rebecca@efao.ca \nJessica Gale\, Knowledge Mobilization Manager\, jessica@efao.ca
URL:https://efao.ca/event/research-office-hours-2025-2/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251210T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251210T140000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20251103T152913Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251103T153809Z
UID:53018-1765371600-1765375200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Farmer-Led Research Program Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:It’s that time of year again—time to start shaping your questions and curiosities into research ideas!  \nEFAO research team will be holding open virtual office hours in December and January for prospective farmer-led research applicants to ask questions and discuss their applications. If you can not make these hours please feel free to schedule an appointment with one of our research team members. \n  \nContact for appointment at another time: \nSarah Larsen\, Research Director\, sarah@efao.ca \nRebecca Ivanoff\, Seed Program Manager\, rebecca@efao.ca \nJessica Gale\, Knowledge Mobilization Manager\, jessica@efao.ca
URL:https://efao.ca/event/research-office-hours-2025-1/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251202T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251204T170000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20251022T232645Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251023T004830Z
UID:52900-1764664200-1764867600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:2025 EFAO Conference: Pathways to Prosperity
DESCRIPTION:EFAO’s Annual Conference draws farmers\, growers\, and food producers from across the food system for two days of intensive learning\, idea-sharing\, networking and celebration with good food and friends. With over 300 attendees\, the EFAO Conference connects you with people who care passionately about farming and food. \nThis year’s theme is inspired by the unique historical moment that we are all inhabiting: a time in which ecological farming is in some ways more mainstream than ever\, but in which economic circumstances\, world events\, and numerous other factors have combined to make many of us question the viability of food production as an occupation. This theme is also intended to reflect the truth that although the act of growing food in a way that acknowledges the entirety of ecology may be a very real challenge in this era\, there is still hope if we face these challenges collaboratively\, and that prosperity can come in many forms\, via many pathways. \nThis year’s program promises another wonderful event of over 35 sessions across three days. Join us for one\, two or all three days of the EFAO Conference! \nLearn more!
URL:https://efao.ca/event/2025-conference/
LOCATION:Four Points by Sheraton\, 1150 Wellington rd\, London\, ON\, N6E 1M3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Conference
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251201T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251201T123000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20251027T152546Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251028T184834Z
UID:52929-1764581400-1764592200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Research Symposium
DESCRIPTION:The Research Symposium is an online gathering where EFAO members share their findings and insights from the 2025 research season. \nThis year you will hear about multi-farm trials involved in the Living Lab-Ontario project\, including: \n\nNo-till potato using deep mulch\nPlant available nitrogen from cover crops\nNo-till winter squash with mulch\n\nAlong with farmer-led research projects focused on: \n\nLeaves as mulch\nPolycultures with cucumbers\nLandrace watermelon evaluation\nIntracanopy lighting for tomatoes\nLandrace maxima squash\nInterplanting with mushrooms\nLuffas growing methods\n\nFree admission to the research symposium is included with a pass to the 2025 Annual EFAO Conference. If you are interested in learning more and registering for this year’s gathering\, please visit the conference page.  \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/farmer-led-research-symposium-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251126T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251126T203000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20251125T180704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251125T180704Z
UID:53233-1764183600-1764189000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:November BIPOC Farmers Network Meet-up
DESCRIPTION:Join the November BIPOC Farmer Meetup!  \nJoin us for a conversation with farmer Chadwick Lewis of Urban Fresh Produce\, who grows organic vegetables in Ottawa on land rented from the National Capital Commission. Originally from Saint Lucia\, Chadwick has been farming since 2015 and now runs Urban Fresh Produce with his family\, focusing on food security and community connection. \nChadwick will share about his first full season at his new farm\, followed by an open Q&A on production\, business skills\, land access\, urban markets\, and balancing farm and family life. \nBring a question you’re curious about. Possible topics: getting started on rented land\, seedling sales and community events\, prepping new land or building high tunnels\, cultural crop planning\, and managing time and workload. \nWith EFAO’s annual Conference next week\, we’ll also preview a few exciting highlights and share some upcoming grant funding programs! \nAll are welcome.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/november-bipoc-farmers-network-meet-up/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:BIPOC Farmers Network Meetup,Meet-up
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251126T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251126T130000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20251113T142502Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251113T142502Z
UID:53127-1764158400-1764162000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:November Seed Growers Meet-up
DESCRIPTION:Join the November Seed Grower Meetup!  \nAs the fields quiet down and the harvest season wraps up\, seed work is in full swing across Ontario. November is the perfect time to clean\, sort\, and store your seeds\, reflect on what this year’s crops have taught you\, and start dreaming about next year’s plantings. \nThis meetup comes just a week before the EFAO Conference\, which is packed with seed sessions—from participatory research and breeding workshops to seed swaps and networking with growers from across the province. It’s a great chance to connect with the community and get inspired before the conference frenzy! \nWhether you’re testing germination\, finishing seed cleaning\, or planning your next grow-outs\, this informal lunchtime gathering is the space to share your experiences\, ask questions\, and tap into the collective knowledge of Ontario’s seedkeepers. \nBring your lunch\, your stories\, and your curiosity. Everyone is welcome—EFAO members and non-members\, seasoned seed savers and those just starting out. \nLet’s celebrate the season’s harvest\, share what we’ve learned\, and keep growing stronger together.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/november-seed-growers-meet-up/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251117T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251117T143000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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:20260504T020758
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:20260504T020758
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
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251029T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251029T130000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
CREATED:20250929T214247Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T214247Z
UID:22785-1761739200-1761742800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:October Seed Growers Meet-up
DESCRIPTION:Join the October Seed Grower Meetup!  \nAutumn is here\, and seed season is shifting from field to table. Harvests are wrapping up\, seed is being threshed\, fermented\, and winnowed\, and jars and envelopes are starting to fill. It’s a time for finishing the field season’s work\, taking stock\, and reflecting on what this year’s crops have taught us. \nWhether you’re cleaning seed\, puzzling over germination tests\, or already thinking ahead to next year’s grow-outs\, this is the space to connect with fellow growers\, share your stories\, and ask questions. \nJoin us for this informal lunchtime meetup and tap into the collective knowledge of the seed community. We’ll talk about what’s coming in from the field\, how seed cleaning is going\, and what lessons are emerging as the season winds down. \nBring your lunch\, your seed stories\, and your curiosity. All are welcome—EFAO members and non-members\, experienced seedkeepers and newcomers alike! \nLet’s gather\, share in the harvest\, and keep growing stronger together.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/october-seed-growers-meet-up-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251028T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251028T163000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251023T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251023T203000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251021T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251021T170000
DTSTAMP:20260504T020758
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
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