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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://efao.ca
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for EFAO
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TZID:America/Toronto
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DTSTART:20230312T070000
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DTSTART:20231105T060000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230427T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230427T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230316T201317Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230320T162931Z
UID:15356-1682598600-1682604000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Virtual Annual General Meeting
DESCRIPTION:You’re invited to EFAO’s Virtual AGM!   \nAll are welcome to join us for this year’s virtual EFAO Annual General Meeting! Learn about EFAO’s work over the past year – from on-farm research to climate advocacy – and learn about exciting plans and projects for the coming year. \nWhile EFAO is not currently looking for new board members (we have a full board of 11 members!)\, we invite those who are interested to learn more about what is involved in being an EFAO Board Member by visiting this page. Individuals are welcome to apply to join the Board at any point throughout the year. Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis\, as board vacancies occur. \nAttend the AGM and you will be placed into a draw for some EFAO merchandise of your choosing! \nAs a membership-based organization\, we value and rely on your engagement. We hope you will join us. \n* In accordance with EFAO’s bylaws\, only members who have active memberships for at least 30 days before the AGM (March 27\, 2023) are able to vote on motions. But all members and friends are welcome to attend the AGM.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/virtual-agm-23/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023-AGM-1080-×-1080-px.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230426T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230426T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230412T151736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230412T151736Z
UID:15627-1682512200-1682515800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:April Seed Grower Meet-Up
DESCRIPTION:Planning to save seed this year?! Join Rebecca Ivanoff\, EFAO’s Seed Program Manager and fellow Ontario seed growers in thinking ahead to the 2023 seed saving season! What seed crops are you planning on growing? What variety trials are you working on? What do you need to know to get started? What varieties might you want to steward? Seed growers and seed curious folks\, bring your seed questions and areas of contemplation and we’ll work together to try to address as many as we can. \n  \nJoin our informal monthly meetup with other seed growers\, both aspiring and seasoned\, to talk about your questions and ideas about seedkeeping and seed production. This Meet-Up offers a place for us to share our seed producing knowledge and to hear about upcoming seed events. As always\, our goal is to encourage each other to grow a great diversity of seeds of high quality and in the quantities growers need. \n  \nThis Seed Grower Meet-Up is hosted monthly free for EFAO members\, and now open to non-members too!! Growers of all experience levels and at all points in the process of seed saving and production are welcome.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/april-seed-meetup/
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/IMG_0347-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230424T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230731T200000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230412T162543Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230523T141653Z
UID:15632-1682328600-1690833600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Term 2: Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program
DESCRIPTION:*Register for the whole term or choose individual events.   \n**All events are recorded to allow participants to watch on their own time. Recordings will be made available on the course platform (Moodle) within 48 hours of the event. \nApril 24th\, 7:00pm – 8:00pm: Full-term Participants’ Meet-up \n  \nMay 1st\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Field 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: Lisa Conroy\, Ignatius Farm \n  \nMay 3rd\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Weed Management  \nThis webinar will cover defining and the basic biology of weeds. We will identify the top weeds at Ignatius Farm and go over how to monitor weeds. Tips and strategies for prevention\, as well as tackling weeds with various tools\, hands-on practices\, pesticide alternatives\, and other useful equipment. A recording of this event will be available. \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Ignatius Farm \n  \nMay 8th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Principles of Harvest and Post-Harvest  \nThe moment you’ve been waiting for! You’ve worked hard all season. Nurtured\, watered\, weeded\, trellised\, and talked sweetly to your plants. Now you get to enjoy the fruits of your labour. \nKaren Campbell of Everdale Farm will join us to describe the critical steps to harvest your bounty to achieve the best results. Participants will learn the optimal times to harvest different crops\, techniques for the handling\, cooling and storage to ensure the best quality and optimal shelf-life of your produce. A recording of this event will be available. \nSpeaker: Karen Campbell\, Everdale Farm \n  \nMay 10th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: 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. Sophie Clark shares her experience running a professional organic seedling nursery. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Sophie Clark \n  \nMay 24th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Cover Crops and Green Manures  \nWhat is cover cropping and green manure? \nThis webinar will answer these questions and more\, and discuss why they’re important in crop rotations. Learn how the practice of cover cropping and green manure can increase soil health\, crop health\, and soil water retention. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Stephanie Vickers\, Horticulture Sustainability Specialist\, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Rural Affairs \n  \nMay 31st\, time TBA: Field Day at Green Being Farm (AM) & All Sorts Acres (PM)  \n  \nJune 5th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Setting Up an Urban Farm   \nWant to farm but you live in the city? Join us for this webinar on setting up an urban farm.  We will discuss what you need to consider before you start and some of the challenges you may face along the way. A recording of this event will be available. \nSpeaker: Elana Evans \n  \nJune 7th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Bee Keeping (Webinar or in-person workshop) at Tuckamore Bee Company   \nWhat’s the buzz about beekeeping? Join the Tuckamore Bee Company crew 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. \nSpeakers: Tuckamore Bee Company Crew \n  \nJune 12th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Growing Medicinal Herbs  \nJoin Shabina Lafleur-Gangji as she shares her experience with growing herbs for medicine and tea\, including how growing herbs is different from growing vegetables\, harvest and drying techniques\, as well as tips and tricks she has found useful over the years. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Shabina Lafleur-Gangji\, co-director of  Seed\, Soil and Spirit School \n  \nJune 14th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Keeping Sheep Are you interested in keeping sheep? Join Brenda Hsueh as she talks us through the challenges and benefits of sheep farming.  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 \n  \nJune 19th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Artisanal Livestock Production \nAre you curious about keeping a diversity of livestock in an ecologically sustainable manner? Join Josh from Evermeadow Farm to learn more about the practical aspects of keeping pasture raised poultry as well as how they integrate sheep and pigs into their farm. At Evermeadow Farm they believe that economically viable agriculture is not only compatible with widespread ecological restoration but may actually be essential to it. \nSpeaker: Joshua Noiseux\, Evermeadow Farm \n  \nJune 21st\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Land Regeneration and Reconciliation  \nWhat is your connection to the soil? Honouring and taking care of the land is woven into Indigenous cultures all over the world. Before we can move forward in regeneration and reconciliation we must look back at the knowledge from our past\, to remember those who came before us\, and remember our relationship to the land. Our job as ecological farmers is to start with examining our relationship to the land and its past. Participants will watch a section of  a recorded interview with Cindy Crowe\, Elder\, Lodgekeeper\, author\, and band member of the Opwaaganisiniing (Red Rock Indian Band). Join Nicola as she guides us to examine those connections. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Nicola Thomas\, Sankofa Ecological Wellness \n  \nJune 24th\, time TBA: Identifying Insect Pests and Diseases (Optional in-person Workshop) \n  \nJune 26th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Irrigation Principles  \nWater is Life. Plants definitely require water to thrive and survive and in this webinar David Alexander of Everdale Farm will introduce in-depth the principles of irrigation and the many options available according to your needs. David will explain the importance of monitoring water stress on plants and when and how much to irrigate. A recording of this event will be available. \nSpeaker: David Alexander\, Everdale Farm \n  \nJuly 5th\, time TBA: Field Day at Good Lot Brewery (AM) & Everdale Farm (PM) \n  \nJuly 10th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Orchard Care (Webinar or in-person workshop) \nJoin us for a holistic fruit tree care workshop focused on summer pruning\, and how pruning integrates with key aspects of fruit tree botany and physiology\, pest management strategies\, and other best practices for maintaining a healthy and productive home orchard. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Matt Soltys\, The Urban Orchardist \n  \n  \nJuly 12th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Flower Production \nFlowers are one of the most profitable crops to grow per square foot. 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 regenerative growing practices\, and how to market those flowers for farmers’ markets\, boutiques\, wholesalers\, and wedding clients! \nSpeaker: Akosua Asare\, re.Planted Farm and Florals \n  \nJuly 17th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Farmer Mental Health \nFarming can be a stressful job. Many aspects of farming come with significant challenges such as high financial risk\, heavy physical labour\, extreme weather and unpredictable supply chains. Unfortunately\, farmers are less likely to seek the help of professionals. Join us for this webinar to find out about programs geared towards helping farmers address their mental health challenges and learn some tips to help you cope with day to day stress. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: TBA\, CMHA\, Agriculture Wellness Ontario \n  \nJuly 19th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Virtual Field Day at Pfisterer Farm  \nJoin us for a virtual tour of Pfisterer farm – a first generation 100 acre farm just outside of Damascus Ontario. They produce sustainably-raised pastured meats\, free range eggs\, and seasonal products sold direct to consumer along with field crops and custom farming. \nSpeaker: Jess Pfisterer\, Pfisterer Farm \n  \nJuly 24th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Composting  \nLearn how to recycle nutrients back into the soil to build your growing space and community! This webinar includes a recorded tour of an on-farm compost operation using passive windrow\, ASP\, vermicomposting\, and three-bin composting systems for re-processing valuable farm and food resources into compost. Designed for growers on numerous scales we will cover the basics and mechanics of composting along with an open Q and A to answer your compost-related questions. \nParticipants will also get access to an online book about recycling food resources and compost in Ontario. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Fianna Dirks \n  \nJuly 26th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: How to Strengthen and Get Fit while Farming  \nFarming can “back-breaking” work\, but it shouldn’t be! During this hands on webinar you will be lead into a practice on how to do simple + effective exercises and movements to strengthen and stretch your body to prep & thrive the ascending season. It will start with body awareness\, then posture and finally targeted exercises. \nThere will be a PDF that you can print and use as a tool to practice what you have learned “off the mat and into the field”. A recording of this webinar will be available. \nSpeaker: Julie Bradley-Low\, Stonegrove Wellness Studio \n  \nJuly 31st\, 7:00pm – 8:00pm: Full-term participants’ de-brief meet-up\, online \n  \nFull program details available here  > \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/term-2-ignatius-farm-new-farmer-training-program/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Course
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Ignatius-team-straw-square.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230420T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230420T110000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230403T184814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230403T184814Z
UID:15481-1681983000-1681988400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Introduction to Indoor Growing
DESCRIPTION:This webinar will cover the different types of indoor growing options and which crops can be grown indoors in the spring. The many benefits and challenges of this production system will be discussed.   \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \n  \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Farm Educator\, Ignatius Farm \n \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/introduction-to-indoor-growing-2023/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Jeff-Leslie-hoop-house.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230419T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230419T110000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230403T184916Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230403T190237Z
UID:15477-1681896600-1681902000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Identifying and Controlling Pests and Diseases
DESCRIPTION:Unfortunately we are not the only ones who find our crops tasty!  There is a whole world of insects and diseases 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 and diseases throughout the growing season.    \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \n  \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Farm Educator\, Ignatius Farm
URL:https://efao.ca/event/identifying-and-controlling-pests-and-diseases-2023/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/pest-management.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230418T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230418T110000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230403T185019Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230403T190144Z
UID:15471-1681810200-1681815600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Farm Workers Rights and Responsibilities
DESCRIPTION:Did you know that farm worker rights differ from general employee rights? Many new farm workers are uninformed about their rights and responsibilities. This webinar will clarify the different rights and responsibilities relating to working on Ontario farms.   \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \n  \nSpeaker: David Thompson\, Farm Labour Project Coordinator\, National Farmers Union Ontario
URL:https://efao.ca/event/farm-workers-rights-and-responsibilities-2023/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/farmworkers-rights-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230417T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230417T110000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230403T185232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230403T185254Z
UID:15466-1681723800-1681729200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Botany for Farmers and Gardeners
DESCRIPTION:This 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\, pollination and common pests and diseases.   \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \n  \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Farm Educator\, Ignatius Farm \n \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/botany-for-farmers-and-gardeners-2023/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/botany-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230414T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230414T110000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230403T150043Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230403T185412Z
UID:15459-1681464600-1681470000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Language of Ecological Agriculture and Food Systems in Ontario - Part 2
DESCRIPTION:*Part 1 of this session will take place on April 13 from 9:30am – 11:00am. \n  \nWhat is organic agriculture? What does regenerative mean? What is the difference between permaculture\, agroecology\, and biodynamic farming? Join us for a discussion about the language of ecological agriculture and start thinking about how and where your farm might fit.   \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \n  \nSpeaker: Thorsten Arnold\, Grey-Bruce Centre for Agroecology and Persephone Market Garden \n \n  \n \n  \n  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/language-of-ecological-agriculture-and-food-systems-in-ontario-part-2-2023/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/language-of-eco-ag-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230413T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230413T110000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230403T145853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230403T185457Z
UID:15453-1681378200-1681383600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Language of Ecological Agriculture and Food Systems in Ontario - Part 1
DESCRIPTION:*Part 2 of this session will take place on April 14 from 9:30am – 11:00am. \nWhat is organic agriculture? What does regenerative mean? What is the difference between permaculture\, agroecology\, and biodynamic farming? Join us for a discussion about the language of ecological agriculture and start thinking about how and where your farm might fit.   \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \n  \nSpeaker: Thorsten Arnold\, Grey-Bruce Centre for Agroecology and Persephone Market Garden \n \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/language-of-ecological-agriculture-part-1-2023/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/language-of-eco-ag-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230412T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230412T110000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230403T145627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230403T185540Z
UID:15434-1681291800-1681297200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Introduction to Soil Health
DESCRIPTION:Soil 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.   \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \n  \nSpeaker: Dr. Sarah Larsen\, Soil Microbial Ecologist and Research & Small Grains Program Director\, Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario. \n \n  \n  \n  \n  \n \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/introduction-to-soil-health-2023/
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.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230411T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230420T200000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230331T211741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230406T150654Z
UID:15487-1681205400-1682020800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Term 1: Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program
DESCRIPTION:*Register for the whole term or choose individual events.   \n**All events are recorded to allow participants to watch on their own time. Recordings will be made available on the course platform (Moodle) within 48 hours of the event. \n  \nApril 11th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Introduction to Organic Growing \n Are 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 organic principles. Topics will include the basics of getting to know your site\, common tools\, site preparation\, planting\, pest management\, harvesting\, and extending the season.   \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Ignatius Farm \n  \nApril 11th\, 7:00pm – 8:00pm: Full-term Participants’ Meet-up\, Online \n  \nApril 12th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Introduction to Soil 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.   \nSpeaker: Sarah Larsen\, Research and Small Grains Programs Director\, EFAO \n  \nApril 13th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Language of Ecological Agriculture and Food Systems in Ontario – Part 1 \nPart 1 of 2: What is organic agriculture? What does regenerative mean? What is the difference between permaculture\, agroecology\, and biodynamic farming? Join us for a discussion about the language of ecological agriculture and start thinking about how and where your farm might fit.  \nSpeaker: Thorsten Arnold\, Grey-Bruce Centre for Agroecology and Persephone Market Garden \n  \nApril 14th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Language of Ecological Agriculture and Food Systems in Ontario – Part 2 \nPart 2 of 2: What is organic agriculture? What does regenerative mean? What is the difference between permaculture\, agroecology\, and biodynamic farming? Join us for a discussion about the language of ecological agriculture and start thinking about how and where your farm might fit.  \nSpeaker: Thorsten Arnold\, Grey-Bruce Centre for Agroecology and Persephone Market Garden \n  \nApril 17th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Botany 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\, pollination and common pests and diseases.   \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Ignatius Farm \n  \nApril 18th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Farm Workers Rights and Responsibilities \nDid you know that farm worker rights differ from general employee rights? Many new farm workers are uninformed about their rights and responsibilities. This webinar will clarify the different rights and responsibilities relating to working on Ontario farms.   \nSpeaker: David Thompson\, Farm Labour Project Coordinator\, National Farmers Union Ontario \n  \nApril 19th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Identifying and Controlling Pests and Diseases \nUnfortunately we are not the only ones who find our crops tasty! There is a whole world of insects and diseases 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 and diseases throughout the growing season.  \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Ignatius Farm \n  \nApril 20th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Introduction to Indoor Growing \nThis webinar will cover the different types of indoor growing options and which crops can be grown indoors in the spring. The many benefits and challenges of this production system will be discussed.  \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Ignatius Farm \n  \nApril 20th\, 7:00pm – 8:00pm: Full-term participants’ de-brief meet-up\, online \n  \nFull program details available here  > \n  \n \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/term-1-ignatius-farm-new-farmer-training-program-2023/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Course
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Ignatius-team-straw-square.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230411T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230411T110000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230403T145431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230403T185631Z
UID:15430-1681205400-1681210800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Introduction to Organic Growing
DESCRIPTION:Are 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. \n  \nTopics will include the basics of getting to know your site\, common tools\, site preparation\, planting\, pest management\, harvesting\, and extending the season.  A recording of this webinar will be available. \n  \nSpeaker: Lisa Conroy\, Farm Educator  at Ignatius Farm \n  \n \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/introduction-to-organic-growing-2023/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2225-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230411
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231116
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230331T211327Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230526T134622Z
UID:15495-1681171200-1700092799@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Full Program: Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program
DESCRIPTION:*Register here for the full program (4 Terms) or register for a single term or a single event by visiting the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program webpage.    **All events are recorded to allow participants to watch on their own time. Recordings will be made available on the course platform (Moodle) within 48 hours of the event. \nFull Program Details\nTerm 1: April 11th – 20th\, 9:30am – 11:00am\nTerm 1 provides foundational knowledge and language for basic farm work. Schedule: \n\nApril 11th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Introduction to Organic Growing\nApril 11th\, 7:00pm – 8:00pm: Full-Term Participants Meet-up\nApril 12th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Introduction to Soil Health\nApril 13th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Language of Ecological Agriculture and Food Systems in Ontario – Part 1\nApril 14th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Language of Ecological Agriculture and Food Systems in Ontario – Part 2\nApril 17th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Botany for Farmers and Gardeners\nApril 18th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Farm Workers Rights and Responsibilities\nApril 19th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Identifying and Controlling Pests and Diseases\nApril 20th\, 9:30am – 11:00am: Introduction to Indoor Growing\nApril 20th\, 7:00pm – 8:00pm: Full-Term Participants De-brief\n\n\n\nTerm 2: May to July\, Mondays & Wednesdays\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm\nTerm 2 focuses on learning about specialized aspects of farming.   Schedule (may be subject to change): \n\nApril 24th\, 7:00pm – 8:00pm: Full-Term Participants Meet-up\nMay 1st\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Field and Bed Preparation\nMay 3rd\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Weed Management\nMay 8th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Harvest and Post-Harvest Principles\nMay 10th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Seedling Production and Greenhouse Management\nMay 24th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Cover Crops\nMay 31st\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: In-person Field Day (TBA)\nJune 5th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Setting up an Urban Farm\nJune 7th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Beekeeping\nJune 12th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Growing Medicinal Herbs\nJune 14th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Keeping Sheep\nJune 19th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Artisanal Livestock Production\nJune 21st\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Land Regeneration and Reconciliation\nJune 24th\, time TBA: Identifying Insect Pests and Diseases (in-person workshop)\nJune 26th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Irrigation Basics\nJuly 5th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: In-person Field Day (TBA)\nJuly 10th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Orchard Care\nJuly 12th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Flower Production\nJuly 17th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Mental Health for Farmers\nJuly 19th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: TBA\nJuly 24th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: Composting\nJuly 26th\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm: How to Strengthen and Get Fit for Farming\n\n\nAugust break \n  \nTerm 3: September to October\, Mondays & Wednesdays\, 2:30pm – 4:00pm\nTerm 3 expands beyond the basics to build skills for a specialized farm. Schedule coming soon! \n\n10 webinars/ virtual field days\, such as: Apiculture\, Permaculture\, Livestock (various)\, a deeper dive into some terms 1 and 2 topics.\nOnline meet-ups for full term participants.\n\n\n\nTerm 4: November 1st\, 3rd\, 6th\, 8th\, 13th and 15th\, 9:30am – 11:00am & 2:30pm – 4:00pm\nTerm 4 provides entrepreneurship training for operating a farm business. Schedule coming soon! \n\n12 webinars\, such as: Farm Design\, Business planning\, Production system management\, Budgets & Record keeping\, Marketing and distribution\, Financing\, and Land access.\nOnline meet-ups for full term participants.\n\n\nFull program (all 4 Terms) participants receive a Certificate for completing the Ignatius New Farmer Training Program.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/full-ignatius-farm-new-farmer-training-program/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Course
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/ClaireCoulter-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230329T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230329T110000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230314T170354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230315T151401Z
UID:15281-1680084000-1680087600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Tips & Tools for the Research Season and Farmer Q&A
DESCRIPTION:Get a handle on what an on-farm research project entails\, and bring your questions for farmer-researchers Michelle Dang\, Angie Koch\, and Dean Orr\, and EFAO’s Research Team. \nConducting on-farm research in the midst of an already busy growing season requires organization and foresight to find systems that work for your farm. After a short presentation by EFAO’s Research Team\, we will have a panel discussion with current participants in EFAO’s Farmer-Led Research Program\, followed by an open question and answer period. \nThis webinar is open to anyone interested in farmer-led or on-farm research and will be recorded and shared with participants following the live event.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/tips-tools-2023/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017GarlicFFsetup.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230328T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230328T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230315T142145Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230315T142145Z
UID:15315-1680006600-1680010200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:March Seed Grower Meet-Up: Sowing Seeds to Save
DESCRIPTION:This session is free to all as a part of EFAO’s Member Month. EFAO members get great perks including free and reduced cost events – join today! \nPlanning to save seed this year?! Join Bob Wildfong\, Executive Director of Seeds of Diversity Canada\, Rebecca Ivanoff\, EFAO’s Seed Program Manager\, as well as other Ontario seed growers in thinking ahead to the 2023 seed saving season! What seed crops are you planning on growing? What do you need to know to get started? What varieties might you want to steward? Seed growers and seed curious folks\, bring your seed questions and areas of contemplation and we’ll work together to try to address as many as we can. \nJoin our informal monthly meetup with other seed growers\, both aspiring and seasoned\, to talk about your questions and ideas about seedkeeping and seed production. This Meetup offers a place for us to share our seed producing knowledge and to hear about upcoming seed events. As always\, our goal is to encourage each other to grow a great diversity of seeds of high quality and in the quantities growers need. \nThis Seed Grower Meet-Up is hosted monthly for EFAO members and open to all in March! Growers of all experience levels and at all points in the process of seed saving and production are welcome.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/march-seed-grower-meet-up-sowing-seeds-to-save/
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230327T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230327T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230314T173119Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230316T165514Z
UID:15277-1679918400-1679923800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Hedgerows and Hedgelaying in North America
DESCRIPTION:This webinar is available to all at the member registration rate\, as a part of Member Month! EFAO members get great perks including free and reduced cost events – join today! \nNorth American hedgerows\, also known as fencerows\, shelterbelt or windbreaks\, are diverse in structure and usage\, but usually little or no management is regularly undertaken. ‘European’-style hedgerows or living fences planted with management in mind were established by early settlers who wanted to recreate their homeland landscapes and protect soils. By the twentieth century\, they had all but disappeared\, primarily due to the modernization and intensification of agriculture. \nHedgerows have received more attention in North America recently because of the rise in interest in agroforestry and socio-ecology (homesteading\, transition cultures\, localism and sense-of place) resting on evidence for the growth of ecosystem services delivered by hedgerows. In this webinar Jim Jones will give a brief history of hedgerows\, outlining their ecological and social importance\, and give an overview of management through the concept of the hedgerow cycle and the traditional skill of hedgelaying. Jim has 15 years of experience in hedgerow ecology and management\, first as an ecologist in the UK and more recently as Manager of the Hedgerows in The Ontario Landscape project at The University of Waterloo. He currently runs hedgelaying training courses through the Ontario Land Skills Network and consults on Hedgerow projects with his partner in their business The Hedgerow Co.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/hedgerows-hedgelaying-in-north-america/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Hedgerows_Hedgelaying_400.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230321T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230321T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230314T173532Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230316T163826Z
UID:15285-1679400000-1679405400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Funding Opportunities for New and Aspiring Farmers
DESCRIPTION:Join Aliyah Fraser of Lucky Bug Farm to talk about how new and aspiring farmers can access different types of funding to help seed their farming dreams! Do you have ideas for funding opportunities (non-repayable grants or low-interest loans) to share with fellow farmers? Looking for help figuring out how to find the capital to buy equipment\, pay the deposit on your lease\, or purchase seeds in your first season? Join this meet-up to learn and share ideas for farm start-up funding. \nDuring her first few years of farming\, Aliyah has had some success accessing various funding opportunities that might be a fit for you\, too. She’ll share some of her experiences\, and then we’ll open the floor for participants to share funding opportunities they are aware of\, tips & tricks for applying\, and success stories from previous seasons. \nEFAO staff will take notes during the session and share a list of the funding opportunities discussed with attendees afterward.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/grants-farm-start-up-funding/
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230320T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230320T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230314T163621Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230317T190959Z
UID:15271-1679313600-1679319000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Cover Cropping Strategies for Market Gardeners
DESCRIPTION:This session is free as a part of EFAO’s Member Month\, with thanks to the On Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) for their financial support. EFAO members get great perks including free and reduced cost events- join today! \n  \nCover crops are a key component of building soil health\, cycling nutrients\, and practicing ecological and regenerative agriculture- but it takes some learning to find the right cover cropping mixes\, timing\, termination strategies\, and rotations for your context. In this panel\, join several market gardeners who are passionate about cover cropping as they share what’s worked for them and what they’ve learned along the way\, and answer your cover cropping questions. This session will focus on cover cropping strategies for market gardens that operate at a human-powered and/or “BCS scale” rather than a tractor scale; however many of the lessons learned will be transferable to other scales and equipment types. \n  \nModerator: Angie Koch- Fertile Ground CSA \nPanelists: Brenda Hsueh (Black Sheep Farm)\, Ekow Stone (FoodShare)\, Jesse Way (Milky Way Farm)\, Martina Schaefer (Spiral Farm) \nThis webinar is an OSCIA-recognized On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) Knowledge Sharing Event for applicants with approved Cover Cropping projects. Participants must attend this session live in order to count it as a KSE. Questions about OFCAF should be directed to OFCAF@ontariosoilcrop.org
URL:https://efao.ca/event/cover-cropping-strategies-for-market-gardeners/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Small-Grains-Meet-Up-Cover-Crops-and-Small-Grains_400.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230315T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230315T203000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230221T193055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230227T170500Z
UID:15032-1678906800-1678912200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:High Yield\, Reduced Tillage Organic Corn & Soybeans
DESCRIPTION:Brett Israel of 3Gen Organics will share highlights of the successes and challenges on his path to reducing tillage in an organic farm system. Along with the highs of 250 bu/ac organic corn to the lows of 20 bu/ac organic soybeans\, Brett will share learnings from his Living Lab – Ontario trials looking at organic systems for no-till soybeans and reduced-till soybeans\, and “alfalfa-fueled corn” — organic field corn that they grow with alfalfa as the sole source of additional nitrogen.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/high-yield-reduced-tillage-organic-corn-soybeans/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design39-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230315T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230315T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230210T154504Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230210T154504Z
UID:14879-1678885200-1678888800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Millers & Distillers: Small Grains Processing in Ontario
DESCRIPTION:Looking for opportunities beyond the elevator? Join us to hear from two Ontario businesses offering niche opportunities for small grains processing in the province.  \nMike Hook joins us from Last Straw Distillery\, an award-winning craft distillery in Vaughn. He’ll share about Last Straw\, in particular about their single farm whisky program\, which is focused on working directly with regenerative small grains growers to source grain. These are distilled separately\, to make whiskies that are 100% from a single farm\, and tell the story of the farm\, farmer\,  and regenerative ag. \nKevin Stewart from Ottawa Valley Grain Products knows both sides of the business\, being both farmer and miller. OVGP’s main crop they work with is barley\, cleaning and dehulling barley to make pot and pearled barley found in soups and stews.They also make whole grain barley flour which is a specialty high nutrient flour. OVGP also works with other grains such as wheat\, rye\, spelt\, red fife and oats\, and is expanding their capacity and the crops they can work with.  \nCome on out to learn about the local processing sector and how your farm may be able to get directly involved!
URL:https://efao.ca/event/millers-distillers-small-grains-processing-in-ontario/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Barley-Photo-by-Amit-Lahav-on-Unsplash.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230313T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230313T203000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230301T162710Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230301T162710Z
UID:15124-1678734000-1678739400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Queer Farmer Meet-Up
DESCRIPTION:This meet-up is open to anyone who identifies as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. \nCome out\, come out to the second-ever EFAO Queer Farmer Meet-up! This is an opportunity for anyone in the 2SLGBTQIA+ umbrella who is passionate about growing food to connect with others\, make friends\, and build community. Whether you are growing food in the city\, producing food in a rural setting\, pining for your queer farming dream\, or are somewhere in between\, you are welcome in this group! \nThis meet-up will feature a presentation by PhD candidate Rachel Everett-Fry of her research on the experiences of queer farmers and homesteaders in Ontario. After the presentation\, participants will be invited to discuss queer-friendly farming resources to build the network of knowledge and resources available to queer folx interested in food\, farming\, and/or rural living.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/queer-farmer-meet-up-2/
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/lauren-lopes-XnocZNTRqqw-unsplash.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230310T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230310T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230112T211455Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230223T163416Z
UID:14662-1678449600-1678456800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Mushroom Harvesting\, Marketing and Sales
DESCRIPTION:Mushrooms are a unique crop that are gaining in popularity and are sure to set you apart in local markets. Species can be cultivated outdoors and indoors and production is easily scaled to meet your goals. Join farmer\, author\, and educator Steve Gabriel for the final segment in a three part series introducing aspects of successful farm-scale growing and sales of shiitake\, oyster\, lions mane\, and other specialty mushrooms. Each class will offer a lecture for the first hour or so\, and leave plenty of time for Q&A to respond to the interests of those gathered.  \nRegister for individual sessions or access bundle savings by registering for the series on the EFAO Events page. \n  \nMarch 10: Harvest\, Marketing and Sales \nYou can’t make an income growing mushrooms – you have to sell them! Right now\, mushrooms are having a moment\, and good margins for small\, local producers. Learn approaches to budgeting and scaling production to meet income goals. Consider the practical and regulatory aspects of harvesting and selling fresh mushrooms and value added products. Weigh the pros and cons of various sales outlets including farmers markets\, CSAs\, restaurants\, and wholesale accounts.   \n  \nAbout Steve Gabriel \nSteve Gabriel is an ecologist\, author\, and educator living in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State in the US. Throughout his career\, Steve has taught thousands of people regenerative methods for healing landscapes and generating income. His focus has largely been on mushroom cultivation and agroforestry practices. Alongside his family\, he co-stewards Wellspring Forest Farm\, producing mushrooms\, pastured lamb\, trees\, and hosting educational events and agritourism rentals. He consults for a wide range of projects from individual farms to national and international organizations.\nHe served as extension specialist for the Cornell Small Farms Program for 12 years and developed the leading specialty mushroom research and education program within an academic institution in the USA. He has served as guest faculty at Cornell University\, Sterling College\, Paul Smith’s College\, and the Omega Center for Sustainable Living. Steve co-authored Farming the Woods with Ken Mudge in 2014\, and is author of the new book Silvopasture\, released in 2018.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/mushroom-harvesting-marketing-sales/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design38.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230308T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230308T213000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230110T165056Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230302T213512Z
UID:14591-1678303800-1678311000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Key Considerations for Raising Livestock Regeneratively
DESCRIPTION:This final course session will cover the remaining key considerations around keeping livestock. This will include considerations around processing livestock and finding abattoirs; animal husbandry standards and certifications such as organic and humane; breed associations; animal welfare; marketing; and how to write an effective grazing plan. This session will include a segment delivered by Tony McQuail on Holistic Management Planned Grazing systems. \nFor folks participating in the full “Introduction to Regenerative Livestock” course\, this session will fill in remaining gaps in foundational knowledge. This session will also be relevant as a standalone session for those who already have livestock or who are considering keeping livestock and who want a general overview of any of the topics listed above\, or the opportunity to learn from seasoned livestock farmers. \nThis session is a part of the Introduction to Regenerative Livestock course. Sign up for the full course or other individual sessions on the EFAO Events page. \nThis session is an OSCIA-recognized On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) Knowledge Sharing Event (KSE) for applicants with approved Rotational Grazing Systems projects. Participants must attend this session live in order to count this as a KSE. Questions about OFCAF should be directed to OFCAF@ontariosoilcrop.org \nAbout the instructors: \nFran McQuail: Fran McQuail and her husband\, Tony\, have run a small diversified certified organic farm ( Meeting Place Organic Farm)  near Lucknow\, Ontario for 40 years. After turning the business over to their daughter\, Katrina\, they still live on the farm and continue to be actively involved with it. \nThe farm evolved over the years from a small homestead livestock style operation to a commercial enterprise but still with a wide diversity of livestock. They have raised everything from rabbits to goats to horses and most other types of livestock along the way. They were early adopters of Holistic Management’s Planned Grazing\, a rotational grazing system that improves the pasture over time by considering the plants in addition to the animals.  Planned Grazing of all livestock is the foundation of the farm’s current production. This include meat chickens\, layers\, pigs\, cattle and draft horses. The farm’s website is www.meetingplaceorganicfarm.ca \nFran\, a past President of EFAO\, enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences with others and has taught livestock and farm management courses for EFAO in the past. \nKatrina McQuail: Katrina McQuail returned to Meeting Place Organic Farm in 2014 and took over the farm business in 2016. Born and raised in Huron County on the farm\, Katrina took a round about way back to becoming a farmer. Spending over 10 years away\, Katrina completed a degree in Business and Not For Profit Management and a minor in French at Earlham College in Indiana before going on to work in the culinary industry\, traveling in the Caribbean\, Central and South America as well as in Europe\, and working for government and corporate agencies before running a wonderful social change not-for-profit in Guelph for 4 years. \nCurrently Katrina serves on the EFAO board\, just stepped back from the Eat Local Huron Board and is the assistant clerk for Friends General Conference. Katrina is passionate about all things farmy – but especially pigs. Katrina and her partner Ben live on the farm with their two young children. Planned Grazing of all livestock is the foundation of the farm’s current production. This includes meat chickens\, layers\, pigs\, cattle and draft horses. The farm’s website is www.meetingplaceorganicfarm.ca
URL:https://efao.ca/event/key-considerations-regenerative-livestock/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Workshop
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230308T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230308T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230210T152045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230223T162944Z
UID:14874-1678280400-1678284000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Small Grains Meet Up: Cover Crops and Small Grains
DESCRIPTION:We asked and you answered – you want to talk about cover crops in your small grains crop rotations! \nCome on out for a conversational\, discussion-based hour with other farmers interested in cover cropping with their small grains.  \nBrett Israel of 3Gen Organics will be there to kick off our discussion! 3Gen Organics is a multigenerational family farm in Wallenstein\, Ontario\, where they grow 540 acres of corn\, soybeans\, small grains and hay crops to fuel their organic pork production. Brett and his family are innovators determined to continue to improve their rotations\, and one tool they use is cover crops! We’ll be inspired by 3Gen & then dive into all of our collective cover crop challenges.  \nTune in to share your own cover cropping experiences\, ask questions and discuss solutions. Whether you’ve been growing grains for 50 years or you’re still looking for the perfect piece of land\, you’re welcome to come and see what we can learn together. \nThis event is an OSCIA-recognized Knowledge Sharing Event for Ontario On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) applicants with a project under the Cover Cropping category.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/small-grains-meet-up-cover-crops-and-small-grains/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/red-clover.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230307T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230307T133000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230130T203048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230224T171142Z
UID:14837-1678190400-1678195800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Advanced Digital Marketing for Farmers
DESCRIPTION:As part of EFAO’s Member Month this webinar is being offered at member pricing for everyone!  \nBecome an EFAO member today and receive discounts on all educational events\, from webinars\, courses\, workshops\, the EFAO conference\, and more. \nWith ever-changing algorithms and balancing day-to-day farm tasks\, social media and digital marketing can feel overwhelming\, with little return. In this advanced session you will learn how to bypass algorithm changes\, effectively speak to your target audience\, and turn your marketing efforts into tangible sales. Participants will discuss how to effectively use Google\, Facebook\, Instagram\, and Email Marketing in light of ever-evolving algorithm changes. This webinar will be taught by farmer and florist Akosua Asare. Prior to becoming a farmer\, Akosua ran a 6-figure e-commerce business that helped land her on CBC Dragon’s Den. During this session with EFAO\, she will share what she learned and how she’s applied those lessons to marketing her farm business\, re.Planted. \nAbout the Instructor:\nAkosua Asare is the head farmer & florist at re.Planted Farm & Floral Studio in Deep River\, Ontario. She grows vegetables and cuts flowers for the market using regenerative growing practices on just under 1500sq ft of space. In her former life\, Akosua ran an e-commerce business that helped land her on CBC’s Dragons Den. Drawing from this experience\, Akosua effectively utilizes social media to grow her farm business\, both locally and across Canada.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/advanced-digital-marketing-for-farmers/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Advanced-Digital-Marketing-for-Farmers.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230303T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230317T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230112T205847Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230227T164808Z
UID:14657-1677844800-1679061600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Indoor Mushroom Cultivation
DESCRIPTION:Mushrooms are a unique crop that are gaining in popularity and are sure to set you apart in local markets. Species can be cultivated outdoors and indoors and production is easily scaled to meet your goals. Join farmer\, author\, and educator Steve Gabriel for the second session in a three part series introducing aspects of successful farm-scale growing and sales of shiitake\, oyster\, lions mane\, and other specialty mushrooms. Each class will offer a lecture for the first hour or so\, and leave plenty of time for Q&A to respond to the interests of those gathered.  \nRegister for individual sessions or access bundle savings by registering for the series on the EFAO Events page. \n  \nMarch 3: Indoor Mushroom Cultivation  \nWhen growing in a controlled climate\, one can achieve consistent high yields and even extend the production season far beyond the bounds of outdoor systems. Learn about how spaces such as barns\, basements\, high tunnels\, and dedicated structures can all support mushroom production\, and the tools and tricks for keeping consistent temperature\, humidity\, light\, and air exchange resulting in beautiful flushes of high quality mushrooms.  \n  \nAbout Steve Gabriel \nSteve Gabriel is an ecologist\, author\, and educator living in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State in the US. Throughout his career\, Steve has taught thousands of people regenerative methods for healing landscapes and generating income. His focus has largely been on mushroom cultivation and agroforestry practices. Alongside his family\, he co-stewards Wellspring Forest Farm\, producing mushrooms\, pastured lamb\, trees\, and hosting educational events and agritourism rentals. He consults for a wide range of projects from individual farms to national and international organizations.\nHe served as extension specialist for the Cornell Small Farms Program for 12 years and developed the leading specialty mushroom research and education program within an academic institution in the USA. He has served as guest faculty at Cornell University\, Sterling College\, Paul Smith’s College\, and the Omega Center for Sustainable Living. Steve co-authored Farming the Woods with Ken Mudge in 2014\, and is author of the new book Silvopasture\, released in 2018.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/indoor-mushroom-cultivation/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/oyster-indoors-square-e1673556885295.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230301T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230301T213000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230110T164136Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230113T165750Z
UID:14587-1677699000-1677706200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Raising Cattle Regeneratively
DESCRIPTION:From a grass-finished beef direct-to-consumer enterprise to a homestead dairy cow\, there’s lots to consider before adding cattle to your operation. Join this session and benefit from years of farming experience to guide your decisions- no bull! \nIn this session\, you’ll learn everything you need to know to get started with cattle\, including topics such as fencing\, feeding\, watering\, pasture management\, housing\, parasite and disease management\, predator protection\, and much more. While the focus of the session will be on cattle\, draft horses can also be discussed if there is participant interest. \nThis session will be well-suited to those just starting out with or considering keeping cattle\, who wish to explore the fundamentals and gain a solid knowledge foundation. This course will also be relevant to those with intermediate knowledge of cattle\, but who wish to gain new perspectives from seasoned instructors. \nThis session is a part of the Introduction to Regenerative Livestock course. Sign up for the full course or other individual sessions on the EFAO Events page. \nAbout the Instructors: \nFran McQuail: Fran McQuail and her husband\, Tony\, have run a small diversified certified organic farm ( Meeting Place Organic Farm)  near Lucknow\, Ontario for 40 years. After turning the business over to their daughter\, Katrina\, they still live on the farm and continue to be actively involved with it. \nThe farm evolved over the years from a small homestead livestock style operation to a commercial enterprise but still with a wide diversity of livestock. They have raised everything from rabbits to goats to horses and most other types of livestock along the way. They were early adopters of Holistic Management’s Planned Grazing\, a rotational grazing system that improves the pasture over time by considering the plants in addition to the animals.  Planned Grazing of all livestock is the foundation of the farm’s current production. This include meat chickens\, layers\, pigs\, cattle and draft horses. The farm’s website is www.meetingplaceorganicfarm.ca \nFran\, a past President of EFAO\, enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences with others and has taught livestock and farm management courses for EFAO in the past. \nKatrina McQuail: Katrina McQuail returned to Meeting Place Organic Farm in 2014 and took over the farm business in 2016. Born and raised in Huron County on the farm\, Katrina took a round about way back to becoming a farmer. Spending over 10 years away\, Katrina completed a degree in Business and Not For Profit Management and a minor in French at Earlham College in Indiana before going on to work in the culinary industry\, traveling in the Caribbean\, Central and South America as well as in Europe\, and working for government and corporate agencies before running a wonderful social change not-for-profit in Guelph for 4 years. \nCurrently Katrina serves on the EFAO board\, just stepped back from the Eat Local Huron Board and is the assistant clerk for Friends General Conference. Katrina is passionate about all things farmy – but especially pigs. Katrina and her partner Ben live on the farm with their two young children. Planned Grazing of all livestock is the foundation of the farm’s current production. This includes meat chickens\, layers\, pigs\, cattle and draft horses. The farm’s website is www.meetingplaceorganicfarm.ca
URL:https://efao.ca/event/raising-cattle-ruminants-regeneratively/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Cows-in-field-square.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230301T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230329T160000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230113T221601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230227T150423Z
UID:14685-1677673800-1680105600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Living Soils Intensive
DESCRIPTION:This course runs from 12:30-4:00pm every Wednesday in March (March 1-29). Sessions will be recorded and shared with course participants\, however participants are strongly encouraged to attend as many sessions live as possible as each week builds on the one before. \nJoin Vivian Kaloxilos from Docterre Soil Life Regeneration for a five week deep dive into the world of living soils as the basis of regenerative agriculture. The course will include thorough coverage of living soils principles\, theory\, and science. There will be a focus on practical on-farm techniques to foster thriving soils that in turn support healthy\, resilient food production. Participants will leave understanding how to apply their learning to their specific farming and/or food production context. This course will be relevant no matter your crop or scale or current farming practices — from conventional to organic and everything in between. This is the last live full course training that Vivian has planned for the foreseeable future — don’t miss out. Prices increase February 20th at midnight! \nIn addition to the online course\, EFAO will host a minimum of one in-person Living Soils Workshop in southwestern Ontario (St Thomas/London area) at the end of April 2023\, at additional cost. The online course is a mandatory prerequisite for participating in the in-person workshop. Each workshop will provide additional hands-on learning.  \nParticipants will have the opportunity to register for one of the following options: \n\nRegister for the online portion of the course ONLY\nRegister for the online course + add on an in-person southwestern Ontario workshop\nRegister for the online course + indicate interest in an in-person workshop in their region (other than southwestern Ontario) if one is offered *\n\nIf you do not wish to register for the workshop in southwestern Ontario but would be interested in registering for one in your region\, please register for the Online Course only and indicate your interest in a workshop in your region when prompted. \n*EFAO will organize more late spring workshops in other regions of Ontario when there are 10+ participants interested from a particular region. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your farm for your region\, please indicate this when asked on the registration form. \nCourse Outline \nSession 1: Living Soils & Soil Ecology Theory.  Learn about the relationships between the soil microbiome and plants; the ecosystem services of soil; the relationship between soil health and agroecological principles; and understanding the impacts of various management decisions on the soil ecosystem\, e.g. tillage\, soil amendments\, etc. \nSession 2: Everything Compost. Learn the differences between a market compost\, an ecologically complete compost\, fungal vs bacterial compost\, and when to use which compost type and for what.  This session will cover the realities of on farm composting\, advantages of making or buying compost\, and how to decide what system to use at your farm and what techniques (e.g. vermicomposting\, thermal composting\, bioreactor\, balanced recipes) will help you accomplish your composting goals. \nSession 3: Compost Teas and Extracts. Learn what compost teas and extracts are and when and why to use them; when to use one over the other; and additional information on practices such as using nettle ferments\, kelp ferments\, and other soil foodweb foods like kelp and fish. This session will cover the equipment needed to make teas and extracts\, and how to modify equipment on the farm to make use of these products. Finally\, this session will discuss the different options for making or buying an extractor or brewer system \nSession 4: Microscopy. This session is about understanding what functional soil biodiversity analyses are\, what the data practically means for your farm\, and how this data differs from  traditional NPK testing and other microbial testing methods. We will also discuss the timing of when or why functional soil biodiversity testing might be useful. We will discuss the situations in which a farmer might need basic microscopy skills for monitoring liquid inoculums. We will look under the microscope together. \nSession 5: Integrating learning. This session will focus on group sharing and reflection on individual soil health plans that participants have created throughout the course.  \nIn-person Workshop (optional): Participants in the Living Soils course will have the opportunity to add on an optional in-person workshop\, at an additional cost of $100. You must participate in the online course to be eligible to attend a workshop. Workshops include: \n\nApproximately 6 hours of additional in-person content\, hands-on learning\, and community building\nField observations\, soil and compost sampling\, analysis and microscopy in practice all together\nTour and discussion with the host farm\n\nWorkshops do not include meals. Participants are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch! \nAbout the instructor: \nVivian is passionate about the natural world\, assisting and documenting life and biodiversity as it bounces back from states of degradation. She is an ecologist who specializes in soil ecology and applied soil life regeneration. She sees herself as a support system to farmers and landowners who are at the front lines of the regenerative movement. Through her company Docterre\, founded in 2015\, she has been educating\, supporting and accompanying farmers in their processes of regenerating soil biodiversity\, understanding the connection between the health of subterranean biodiversity and above ground plant and ecosystem health and performance\, and helping them to develop the practical skills needed to do so. She has been looking at agricultural soils and composts across Quebec and Ontario under her microscope for a decade\, supporting the work of ecologically innovative farmers and documenting their trials this way. Vivian is a master compost maker\, providing compost inoculums that are ecologically balanced and biologically rich\, which her clients use to make liquid compost extracts on farm. She has guided many farmers in on farm compost extract production\, on farm composting\, microscopy\, and understanding the agroecological systematic approaches needed to go hand in hand with soil ecology for results in the field. She’s seen the reality of applying regenerative practices on many types and scales of farms. Before founding Docterre\, she taught and mentored Dr. Elaine Ingham’s soil consultants around the globe\, was a graduate of McGill’s School of Environment and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in applied field ecology\, and completed her Permaculture Design Certificate. Today she sees herself as an ecologist at the service and support of a farmer-led regenerative movement\, and her wish above all else is to see a renewed and thriving culture\, reintegrated in ecology\, and that the natural balance be restored. \nEFAO offers limited financial assistance to farmers facing barriers to participation\, and will prioritize support for equity-deserving farmers. If cost is a barrier to participation\, please fill out this form.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/living-soils-intensive/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Course
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Living-Soils-Course8-e1673647191644.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230228T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230228T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230215T204859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230215T204859Z
UID:14950-1677589200-1677592800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:February Seed Grower Meet-Up
DESCRIPTION:Let’s chat about seed work! We’ve been having some amazing conversations about variety trials\, how to plan your seed crops\, what we want to see in our Seed Demo Garden\, Seedy Saturdays\, and more! Come continue the conversation or join us to start a new one by asking questions! What seedy things are on your mind these days?  \n  \nJoin our informal monthly meetup with other seed growers to talk about your questions and ideas about seedkeeping and seed production. Seed growers and seed curious folks\, bring your seed questions and areas of contemplation and we’ll work together to try to address as many as we can. This Meetup offers a place for us to share our seed producing knowledge and to hear about upcoming seed events. As always\, our goal is to encourage each other to grow a great diversity of seeds of high quality and in the quantities growers need. \n  \nThis Seed Grower MeetUp is hosted monthly for EFAO members. Growers of all experience levels and at all points in the process of seed saving and production are welcome.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/february-seed-grower-meet-up/
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/DSC_0991-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230224T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230310T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T001639
CREATED:20230112T200445Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230223T162843Z
UID:14642-1677240000-1678456800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Learn to Farm Mushrooms Series
DESCRIPTION:Mushrooms are a unique crop that are gaining in popularity and are sure to set you apart in local markets. Species can be cultivated outdoors and indoors and production is easily scaled to meet your goals. Join farmer\, author\, and educator Steve Gabriel for a three part series introducing aspects of successful farm-scale growing and sales of shiitake\, oyster\, lions mane\, and other specialty mushrooms. Each class will offer a lecture for the first hour or so\, and leave plenty of time for Q&A to respond to the interests of those gathered.  \nRegister for individual sessions on the EFAO Events page or access bundle savings by registering for the series here! \n  \nFebruary 24: Outdoor Mushroom Cultivation \nProduction on logs\, stumps\, and beds of wood chips and compost offer mushroom production systems that respond to the natural seasons and a direct connection to healthy soil and forest management. This session will focus on log-grown shiitake as an anchor for profitable outdoor production\, but also introduce several secondary species and techniques.  \n  \nMarch 3: Indoor Mushroom Cultivation  \nWhen growing in a controlled climate\, one can achieve consistent high yields and even extend the production season far beyond the bounds of outdoor systems. Learn about how spaces such as barns\, basements\, high tunnels\, and dedicated structures can all support mushroom production\, and the tools and tricks for keeping consistent temperature\, humidity\, light\, and air exchange resulting in beautiful flushes of high quality mushrooms.  \n  \nMarch 10: Harvest\, Marketing\, and Sales \nYou can’t make an income growing mushrooms – you have to sell them! Right now\, mushrooms are having a moment\, and good margins for small\, local producers. Learn approaches to budgeting and scaling production to meet income goals. Consider the practical and regulatory aspects of harvesting and selling fresh mushrooms and value added products. Weigh the pros and cons of various sales outlets including farmers markets\, CSAs\, restaurants\, and wholesale accounts.   \n  \nAbout Steve Gabriel \nSteve Gabriel is an ecologist\, author\, and educator living in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State in the US. Throughout his career\, Steve has taught thousands of people regenerative methods for healing landscapes and generating income. His focus has largely been on mushroom cultivation and agroforestry practices. Alongside his family\, he co-stewards Wellspring Forest Farm\, producing mushrooms\, pastured lamb\, trees\, and hosting educational events and agritourism rentals. He consults for a wide range of projects from individual farms to national and international organizations.\nHe served as extension specialist for the Cornell Small Farms Program for 12 years and developed the leading specialty mushroom research and education program within an academic institution in the USA. He has served as guest faculty at Cornell University\, Sterling College\, Paul Smith’s College\, and the Omega Center for Sustainable Living. Steve co-authored Farming the Woods with Ken Mudge in 2014\, and is author of the new book Silvopasture\, released in 2018.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/learn-to-farm-mushrooms-series/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Course
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/ShiitakeLog-square-2017-08-07-09.29.31-e1673552175262.jpg
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END:VCALENDAR