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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230315T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230315T203000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
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:20260614T110719
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:20260614T110719
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:20260614T110719
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:20260614T110719
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
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/LIVESTOCK2-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230308T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230308T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
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:20260614T110719
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:20260614T110719
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:20260614T110719
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
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230301T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230329T160000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
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
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230228T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230228T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
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:20260614T110719
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
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230224T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230224T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230112T204708Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230223T163040Z
UID:14652-1677240000-1677247200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Outdoor 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 first 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  \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  \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/outdoor-mushroom-cultivation/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/lions-mane-square-e1673556117620.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230222T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230222T213000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230110T160553Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230124T170019Z
UID:14579-1677094200-1677101400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Raising Small Ruminants Regeneratively
DESCRIPTION:Sheep and goats are fantastic livestock options for the small ecological farm\, but a solid understanding of their needs is required before investing. If you’re ready to explore the basics of keeping sheep and goats\, this session will give you plenty to ruminate on! \nIn this session\, you’ll learn everything you need to know to get started with sheep or goats\, including topics such as fencing\, feeding\, watering\, pasture management\, housing\, parasite and disease management\, predator protection\, and much more. \nThis session will be well-suited to those just starting out with or considering keeping sheep or goats\, who wish to explore the fundamentals and gain a solid knowledge foundation. This course will also be relevant to those with intermediate knowledge of small ruminants\, 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-small-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/ASA_dairysheepgrazing02-scaled-e1655152603982.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230222T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230222T150000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230123T161747Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230125T143408Z
UID:14745-1677074400-1677078000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Outstanding Oats: New Research
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Joshua Nasielski and farmer collaborators like Jason Seed are working to improve oat standability in research projects at the Ontario Crop Research Centres in New Liskeard and Winchester. \n  \nNasielski is evaluating the impact of agronomic interventions like row spacing\, seeding depth\, seeding rate\, nitrogen applications and the use of a plant growth regulator on oat lodging. \n  \nTune in to hear him explain key findings from the research\, and elaborate on next steps researchers can take to continually improve oat production in the province. Also\, Seed will give the farmer perspective on the importance of this research for oat growers in the region\, and the experience of collaborating with academic institutions to find solutions.  \n  \nWe’ll chat about the science\, agronomy\, and also about the farmer-researcher relationship and the key role farmer collaborators play in this type of research. Bring your curious mind and lots of questions!
URL:https://efao.ca/event/outstanding-oats/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/oats-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230216T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230216T000000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20210419T150832Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230217T160133Z
UID:7687-1676505600-1676505600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Virtual Field Day: Three Forks Farms
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a Virtual Field day with Three Forks Farms. Peggy and Eric run a mixed organic vegetable\, seed and chicken farm located on Manitoulin Island. They have been growing in the North East for 6 years\, to both direct to retail and wholesale markets.  \nIn order to make training and community building events accessible to all farmers and future farmers in Ontario\, the Ignatius New Farmer Training Program strives to cover registration fees for anyone facing barriers. Need assistance covering the registration fee? Let us know!
URL:https://efao.ca/event/virtual-field-day-three-forks-farms/
CATEGORIES:Virtual Field Day
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Eric-Peggy-square.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230215T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230215T213000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230109T222750Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230113T165821Z
UID:14570-1676489400-1676496600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Raising Pigs Regeneratively
DESCRIPTION:Are you ready to go whole hog on keeping pigs? Perhaps you’re on the fence\, but curious to learn more! You can stop wallowing- this session will help you determine if pigs are the right livestock for you. \nIn this session\, you’ll learn everything you need to know to get started with pigs\, including topics such as fencing\, feeding\, watering\, pasture management\, housing\, pest and disease management\, predator protection\, and much more. \nThis session will be well-suited to those just starting out with or considering keeping pigs\, who wish to explore the fundamentals and gain a solid knowledge foundation. This course will also be relevant to those with intermediate knowledge of pigs\, 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-pigs-regeneratively/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/MPOF-hogs-square-e1673303223863.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230215T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230215T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230123T154844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230124T174213Z
UID:14736-1676466000-1676469600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Grains are Good: Small Scale Small Grains & Baking the Bread
DESCRIPTION:Meet farmer Josh Suppan of Fat Chance Farmstead. Josh grows organic fruit\, vegetables and grains on about 30 acres in Harrowsmith (just north of Kingston)\, Ontario.  \n  \nJosh markets his produce through a weekly food box program\, where patrons come to the farm once a week to load up on veggies and strawberries. But what about the grain? Josh partnered with Grains and Goods farmstead and bakery in Sydenham (east of Harrowsmith) to tackle that! Josh and Roland Jensch from Grains and Goods work together to grow the grain and mill the flour\, then Roland purchases Josh’s flour and bakes bread in his stone oven imported from Germany. The flour and bread is then available for purchase through Grains and Goods.  \n  \nCome hear from Josh about his journey to the farmstead\, how he began growing small grains\, and his relationship with the milling and baking side of the project. Let him inspire your own small grains journey.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/grains-are-good/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Fat-Chance-Farmstead-flour.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230209T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230413T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230110T204815Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230213T164326Z
UID:14600-1675944000-1681394400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Principles and Practices of Holistic Management
DESCRIPTION:Is your farm business struggling to make a profit? Are your land\, water and ecosystems in need of rejuvenation? Do you struggle with the farm-work-life balance? Are you wondering about how you can pass on your farm and legacy? \nHolistic Management helps farmers discover tools to make better\, more informed decisions to reach your family and farm goals. \nThis course will be held over 10 weeks in February\, March and April 2023\, consisting of 10 x 2 hour online sessions from 12-2pm. The course will cover the main elements of Holistic Management – Goal setting\, Financial Planning\, Decision Testing\, Monitoring (decisions and ecosystem processes) and Planned Grazing.  Holistic Management has been helping farm and ranch families make better decisions for their people\, their land and their finances for over 50 years.  This course can serve as an introduction to Holistic Management for those new to HM.  It will also provide an opportunity for review and refinement for those already familiar with HM.  The course will be facilitated by Tony McQuail\, Holistic Management Certified Educator. \nParticipants will have access to digital Holistic Management manuals for goal setting\, decision testing\, financial planning\, biological monitoring and planned grazing. \nThe first 3 sessions will explore goal setting and decision testing\, the next three will go through the financial planning process and the final sessions will cover monitoring\, grazing planning and review goal setting and decision testing after participants have had a chance to use their holistic goal and test decisions during the previous weeks.  During the course participants will have been able to develop an initial holistic goal\, a draft financial plan and\, depending on the operation\, a grazing plan or crop or garden plan. \nRecordings of the sessions will be sent to all registrants after they take place. \nNote: There is a minimum and maximum number of participants we can accommodate\, and running the course will depend on registration numbers. Prices listed are per farm team. Prices increase February 2nd- register today! \nThis course 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 at least 8 out of the 10 course sessions live in order to count this as a KSE. Questions about OFCAF should be directed to OFCAF@ontariosoilcrop.org \nAbout the Facilitator: Tony McQuail bought his farm near Lucknow\, Ontario in 1973. He and his wife\, Fran\, have run a diversified organic farm raising livestock\, a small apple orchard and operated a community supported garden. McQuail was an early adopter of rotational grazing and has decades of experience in pasture management and fencing systems. At Meeting Place Organic Farm they raise grass fed and finished beef\, pastured pork and pastured poultry and have done some experimenting with cocktail cover crops. They do much of their farming with work horses and provide training in this skill to apprentices. They took a played out crop farm from approximately 1.5 soil organic matter to 3.5 to 7% organic matter moving CO2 from the atmosphere into the soil. The McQuails have transferred the farm operation to their daughter Katrina and continue to be actively involved in it.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/principles-practices-holistic-management/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Course
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/HM-photo-square-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230208T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230208T213000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230109T221536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230113T165915Z
UID:14568-1675884600-1675891800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Regenerative Poultry
DESCRIPTION:Do you want to sell eggs at your farmstand\, but you’re not sure how to get started? How many meat chickens do you need to turn a profit\, and how should you house them? Should you consider a mix of poultry enterprises? Learn the answers to all of these eggs-cellent questions and more in this deep dive into all things poultry! \nLearn everything you need to know to get started with poultry\, including topics such as fencing\, feeding\, watering\, pasture management\, housing\, pest and disease management\, predator protection\, and much more. Species covered will include laying hens\, meat chickens\, ducks\, and turkeys. Other species such as quail and geese will be covered if there is interest. \nThis session will be well-suited to those just starting out with or considering keeping poultry\, who wish to explore the fundamentals and gain a solid knowledge foundation. This course will also be relevant to those with intermediate knowledge of poultry\, but who wish to gain new perspectives from seasoned instructors. \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 done 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 \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.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/regenerative-poultry/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/chickens2_400.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230208T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230208T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230123T160643Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230123T160643Z
UID:14741-1675861200-1675864800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Small Grains Meet Up: Introduce Yourself!
DESCRIPTION:If you’re a farmer or aspiring farmer interested in small grains in Ontario\, we want to meet you!  \n  \nThis is an opportunity to share a little about yourself\, your farm & your small grains goals. Tune in prepared to say hello and meet other farmers. 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.  \n  \nBring your questions about EFAO’s Small Grains Program & your suggestions for topics for future Small Grains programs! Wondering how else you can get involved? Come & find out!
URL:https://efao.ca/event/small-grains-introduce-yourself/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Wheat-Photo-by-Alan-Godfrey-on-Unsplash.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230201T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230308T213000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230109T190457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230127T214142Z
UID:14557-1675279800-1678311000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Introduction to Regenerative Livestock Course
DESCRIPTION:Course Overview\nIn this six-week course\, mother-daughter team Fran and Katrina McQuail of Meeting Place Organic Farm will dive deep into how to go about caring for all varieties of livestock\, including poultry (laying hens\, meat birds\, ducks\, geese\, & turkeys)\, ruminants (sheep\, goats\, & cattle)\, and hogs\, in a way that pays mind to both soil & ecosystem health\, and farm financial sustainability. \nYou’ll learn the fundamentals of caring for livestock\, how to make livestock farming a viable business\, and there will be plenty of opportunity for questions and discussion to ensure you leave with the info you need! \nIs this course right for me?\nThis course will be particularly well-suited to those just starting out or planning to start out with livestock\, who wish to explore the fundamentals of each livestock option and determine which is best suited to their farm operation. This course will also be relevant to those with intermediate knowledge of livestock\, but who wish to brush up on their knowledge of one or more cow-tegories of livestock or gain new perspectives from seasoned instructors. \nThe course can be attended in its entirety\, or you can sign up for individual sessions on our events page. See below for the course outline. \nCourse Outline\nFebruary 1: Introduction- background of Meeting Place Organic Farm and course instructors; benefits and challenges of keeping livestock; assessing your location and any existing facilities; identifying resources; introduction to grazing plans \nFebruary 8: Poultry (including hens\, meat chickens\, ducks\, and turkeys\, as well as quail and geese if there is interest) \nFebruary 15: Pigs \nFebruary 22: Small ruminants (sheep and goats) \nMarch 1: Cattle (and draft horses if there is interest) \nMarch 8: Course wrap-up and Q&A; processing livestock; animal husbandry standards and certifications; marketing; writing a grazing plan \n***Course pricing increases on January 26th*** \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 done 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 \nIn order to make this course accessible to all participants\, EFAO will strive to cover registration fees for anyone who needs financial assistance. EFAO strongly encourages anyone facing financial barriers to participation to request support by completing this form.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/introduction-regenerative-livestock-course-efao-2023/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Course
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Regenerative-Livestock-Course2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230201T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230201T213000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230109T220040Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230113T165209Z
UID:14564-1675279800-1675287000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Regenerative Livestock: The Basics
DESCRIPTION:This introductory session will cover background information to set participants up for success in the rest of the course\, as well as walk through general topics in considering keeping livestock. Participants will learn about Meeting Place Organic Farm and course instructors Fran and Katrina McQuail before discussing how to determine if keeping livestock is right for you. This will include a deep dive into the benefits and challenges of keeping livestock; what to consider around integrating livestock into your operation; assessing your location and any existing facilities; identifying resources and vets; and an introduction to grazing plans. \nFor folks participating in the full course\, this session will provide a solid foundation. This session will also be relevant to those considering dipping a toe into keeping livestock and wanting a general overview of the benefits\, challenges\, and things to consider in making the decision. Future sessions will take a closer look at the kinds of livestock you may wish to keep. \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 done 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 \nYou can register for the entire course or individual sessions on the EFAO Events page.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/regenerative-livestock-the-basics/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/MPOF-grazing-square-scaled-e1673301478682.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230125T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230125T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230111T200910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230113T180342Z
UID:14627-1674651600-1674655200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Nitrogen Gains for Small Grains
DESCRIPTION:Nitrogen is a hot topic on this year’s ag conference circuit – we’re narrowing in on how to manage this key nutrient in your small grain crops!  \nJoin us to hear from Lyss Gingras\, CCA for Agronomy Advantage. Lyss completed undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Guelph studying plants\, insects\, and integrated pest management. They have extensive experience in agricultural research\, scouting and agronomy and a passion for plants\, insects\, agriculture and dogs.   \nLyss will explain how to get the most benefit from nitrogen for your crop while minimizing negative impact on the environment. They’ll go over 4-R principles and answer your nitrogen questions. Get a nitrogen fertility plan in place for your small grains season!  \nThis event is an OSCIA-recognized Knowledge Sharing Event for Ontario On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) applicants with a project under the Nitrogen Management category.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/nitrogen-gains-for-small-grains/
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Lyss-Gingras.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230125
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230501
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230125T173214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230125T192841Z
UID:14803-1674604800-1682899199@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Regrowth: 2022 EFAO Conference Recordings Bundle
DESCRIPTION:Missed attending this year’s online conference program? Not to worry- you can purchase the conference recordings!\nView the online conference program here!\nWhat to expect in the conference recordings bundle:\n\n\n\n13 workshop recordings\n7 Community Meet-Up recordings\n2 outstanding Keynote recordings\nFarmer-Led Research Symposium (+ access to recordings for one year)\n\n\n\nNot a member? Join EFAO to receive the member discount on your conference recordings bundle!\nIn order to make the EFAO conference accessible to all participants\, EFAO strives to cover registration fees for anyone who needs financial assistance. EFAO encourages anyone facing financial barriers to participation to request support by completing this form. \nFarmers who are Black\, Indigenous\, or people of colour can register for a bursary to receive the EFAO Conference recordings for free. Please contact angel@efao.ca for more information.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/regrowth-2022-efao-conference-recordings-bundle/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Conference
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022-Conference-Artwork-EFAO-Branding1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230124T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230124T130000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230110T190435Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230112T200638Z
UID:14594-1674561600-1674565200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:January Seed Grower Meet-Up
DESCRIPTION:Let’s chat about seed work over lunch! \nWe’ve been having some amazing conversations about variety trials\, landraces\, seed equipment sharing\, how to plan your seed crops\, 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 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 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/january-seed-grower-meet-up-3/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Seed-Enews-Header-square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230120T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230120T200000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20230116T160409Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230116T160409Z
UID:14695-1674239400-1674244800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Nitrogen Mentorship Shop Talk
DESCRIPTION:Get ahead of your Nitrogen planning for the 2023 season! This is an evening opportunity to hear from farmers and agronomists about how to optimize nitrogen fertility in your fields. The goal: feed productive crops while minimizing negative environmental impact!  \n  \nCome enjoy pizza\, beverages and snacks while connecting with like-minded farmer neighbours. FaRM mentors Jennifer Doelman – CCA On 4R NMS\, Charlene Whattam – CCA\, and host David Cousens will be in attendance\, as well as guest speaker Lyndsey Smith of Real Agriculture! \n  \nEvent is FREE but please register in advance\, limited space available. Address will be sent by email once registration is complete – reach out to jackie@efao.ca if you do not receive an email.  \n  \nThis event is an OSCIA-recognized Knowledge Sharing Event for Ontario On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) applicants with a project under the Nitrogen Management category. \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/nitrogen-mentorship-shop-talk/
LOCATION:Cousen’s Shop\, 3527 Mohrs Rd\, Kinburn\, ON\, K0A 2H0\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Roundtable
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/SQUARE-Nitrogen-Management-shareable.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230117T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230321T210000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20221213T135147Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230113T171647Z
UID:14479-1673983800-1679432400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Online Farm Planning Course
DESCRIPTION:EFAO and Everdale have partnered once again to offer this intensive farm planning course for new and beginning farmers. \nThinking about starting a farm business? Already running one but struggling with business planning? If you’re ready to start planning your farm business\, this course is for you! \nCourse Overview\nThis ten week\, comprehensive course will walk you through the steps to write a detailed farm plan for your farm business. Each week will consist of a pre-recorded webinar\, a “live” farmer-to-farmer session\, and optional group networking; as well as worksheets\, templates\, resource links and farm case studies. \nLive sessions take place every Tuesday evening at 7:30pm on January 17th\, January 24th\, January 31st\, February 7th\, February 14th\, February 21st\, February 28th\, March 7th\, March 14th and March 21st. *All sessions will be recorded and shared with participants. \nIs this course right for me?\nThis Online Farm Planning Course is geared towards farmers who are serious about starting a farm business in the near future\, or who are already farming but have not yet completed a farm business plan. \nPlease note that getting the most out of this course requires an investment of time and thought. Aside from the 1 – 1.5 hr weekly online sessions\, there will be additional time needed to review pre-recorded video content (approximately 30min per week)\, and to complete the worksheets that will help you write your farm plan. There will also be optional group networking opportunities to meet other new and beginning farmers\, share experiences and troubleshoot. \nCourse Outline\nWeek 1: Farm Visioning \nWeek 2: Production Planning \nWeek 3: Marketing – Sales & Distribution \nWeek 4: Marketing – Promotional Strategies \nWeek 5: Recordkeeping \nWeek 6: Farm Financials – Introduction to Farm Financials \nWeek 7: Farm Financials – Budgeting \nWeek 8: Meeting Small Business Requirements \nWeek 9: Risk Management \nWeek 10: Accessing Financing \nTestimonials from past participants \n“We have a better understanding of the questions we have to ask and answer to ensure we farm successfully as a business. The practical advice and ideas we got are helping us develop our own plans that are right for us. The breadth and scope of the presenters also helped us develop a broader perspective on the variety of solutions and models out there.” \n“Connecting me with a like minded community has been very inspiring – I don’t have a farming background and have had one season working on a medium scale organic vegetable farm. It’s so cool to learn from different farmers and explore all the other methods\, practices and possibilities. The business information [was] very helpful\, to put dreams into perspective and see what it actually takes to develop a business.” \n“The biggest [tangible takeaway] was seeing so many other farmers that started in a similar position and are happy with the choice they made and have a viable farm.  That’s a major confidence boost and inspiration and I think that added so much to the course.” \n***Course pricing increases on January 13th*** \nIf you are a farmer living in northern Ontario\, you are eligible for a 10% discount on the registration fee for this course. Please fill out this form to confirm your eligibility. \nIn order to make this course accessible to all participants\, EFAO will strive to cover registration fees for anyone who needs financial assistance. EFAO strongly encourages anyone facing financial barriers to participation to request support by completing this form.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/online-farm-planning-course-2023/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Course
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/latevegjuly-10-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20230111T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20230111T140000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20221007T151953Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230111T174948Z
UID:13858-1673442000-1673445600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Farmer-Led Research Program Online Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:It’s that time of year again! Time to start shaping your questions and curiosities into research ideas! \nThe Farmer-Led Research Virtual Office Hours are an open space to join fellow farmers\, farmer-researchers\, and research staff to discuss your curiosities and research ideas for the upcoming season. \nParticipants will have the chance to brainstorm\, network\, strategize on ideas\, and learn in community with other farmer-researchers. Farmers and farmer-researchers of all experience levels are welcome. \nRegistration gives you access to all three sessions. You can attend all three or pick the day that works best for you. \nWednesday\, December 14\, 2022\, 1-2pm \nWednesday\, January 4\, 2023\, 1-2pm \nWednesday\, January 11\, 2023\, 1-2pm \nIf you cannot make these hours\, please feel free to schedule an appointment with one of our research team members: \nSarah Larsen\, Research Director\, sarah@efao.ca \nDillon Muldoon\, Research and Soil Health Program Manager\, dillon@efao.ca \nRebecca Ivanoff\, Seed Program Manager\, rebecca@efao.ca
URL:https://efao.ca/event/farmer-led-research-program-onlineoffice-hours/
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Nic-Becca-research.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20221207T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20221207T210000
DTSTAMP:20260614T110719
CREATED:20221129T203800Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221207T160035Z
UID:14410-1670439600-1670446800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Queer Farmer Meet-Up
DESCRIPTION:This Meet-Up is part of the EFAO 2022 Virtual Conference (taking place December 6-8th 2022)\, and is also free for the broader community. Please note that this session is open to those in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community only. If you are interested in attending the rest of this year’s conference\, please visit the conference website for session information and the link to register! \n  \nCalling all queer farmers\, trans-planters and homo-steaders! 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! Join for a meet-up filled with connection\, community\, care\, and rainbows.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/queer-farmer-meet-up/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022-Conference-Artwork-EFAO-Branding_400.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR