BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//EFAO - ECPv6.14.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:EFAO
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://efao.ca
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for EFAO
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Toronto
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20240310T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20241103T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20250309T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20251102T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250305T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250305T191500
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250212T182822Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T170103Z
UID:21297-1741197600-1741202100@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Small Grains Winter Webinar Series: Excellence in Wheat Growing
DESCRIPTION:Is excellence all about peak yield? Or can we strive for higher yields while dialling in management to protect the environment? \nThe Great Lakes Yield Enhancement Network (YEN) is one of a global series of YENs that help local farmers better understand their yield potential and learn what is limiting that potential. The goal of the YEN is to connect agricultural organizations\, extension specialists\, academics\, agronomists\, and farmers who are striving to improve crop returns by unlocking the potential of the field by closing the gap between potential yield and actual yield. \nGord Speksnijder farms in Northumberland\, and uses his experience in research and long farming history to work towards optimizing his production. As a provincial director for Quinte in the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association\, he knows the value of healthy soil to support crops. He’ll share his experience in the YEN program\, and how working towards higher wheat yields is balanced with the need to preserve strong ecosystem services. \nIn 2023\, alongside Parrish & Heimbecker\, Limited\, the Ontario Soil & Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA)\, and the Sustainable Food Lab\, Griffith Foods launched an innovative pilot program to promote regenerative agriculture in wheat farming. This initiative aims to enhance land stewardship and encourage best management practices among farmers\, boosting their resilience and productivity. \nAnne Jacobs from Griffith Foods will join us to discuss the company’s interest in regenerative agriculture\, what’s been learned through the pilot\, and what’s in the works for the future. \nEFAO’s Small Grains Network is funded and supported by the Weston Family Foundation’s Soil Health Initiative.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/small-grains-winter-webinar-series-excellence-in-wheat-growing/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/green-wheat-Photo-by-Arkadiusz-Zet-on-Unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250226T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250226T191500
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250205T195102Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250226T155711Z
UID:21262-1740592800-1740597300@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Small Grains Winter Webinar Series: Grain Farmer Meet & Greet
DESCRIPTION:Come out to meet like-minded farmers with similar goals as yourself. This session is all about sharing the successes\, challenges\, innovations and strategies that go into growing grain on YOUR farms. \nA few farmers from the Small Grains Network across Ontario will start us off with presentations\, followed by an open floor for folks to introduce themselves\, their operations\, share stories and ask questions. Prepare to hear about diverse rotations\, organic grain management\, using grains to bolster forages for livestock\, unique species & more! \nExpand your community\, make new connections\, and get inspired ahead of the growing season at this event. \nSpeakers: \nAndrew St. Jean farms south of New Hamburg\, with land on the border of both Oxford and Waterloo County. His home farm has been certified organic since 1999\, and Andrew has been farming organically on his own since 2014. On his farm he grows corn\, winter wheat\, hard red spring wheat\, barley\, soybeans and hay. Andrew continues to strive to find new ways to farm more efficiently looking to maximize his profit per acre instead of trying to farm more acres. \nFerme Houle Farm is a multi-generational\, family-owned and operated farm. Located in Curran\, Ontario\, we have now been proudly operating for nearly a century. From its humble beginnings as a mixed dairy and potato farm\, the last few decades have seen the farm shift its focus to cash crop operations and growing common grains such as corn\, soy\, buckwheat\, wheat\, and rye. ​​​​​​​Andre Houle started using regenerative agricultural practices in 2018 and obtained organic certification for the first time in 2021. The farm produces a multitude of products for both human and livestock consumption. \nEFAO’s Small Grains Network is funded and supported by the Weston Family Foundation’s Soil Health Initiative.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/small-grains-winter-webinar-series-grain-farmer-meet-greet/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/SGWWS3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250225T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250225T190000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250205T200400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250205T200511Z
UID:21267-1740506400-1740510000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Plants are our Ancestors
DESCRIPTION:All Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge! Please use the coupon code PLANTS2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nStarting with the condensed teaching of the four stages of creation\, with humankind being the fourth and final stage\, we learn about our fragility and interdependence with all those who have come before us. The Anishinabe have cultivated a reciprocal relationship with our plant ancestors\, understanding that life-healing medicine is constantly being offered and communicated through the plants. During Winter\, the earth’s resting time\, the Anishinabe share these teachings\, enriching our connection to the land and preparing us for the planting season ahead. \nThis webinar is part of EFAO’s Indigenous Outreach and Engagement Initiative\, which is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Agribusiness. \n  \nChef Johl Whiteduck is the owner of NishDish Marketeria and Catering\, an award-winning small business that’s been reclaiming and serving traditional Anishinaabe food since 2005. Chef Johl’s journey of Indigenous Food Sovereignty has led him to founding Ojibiikaan Indigenous Cultural Network\, along with the first Indigenous Harvesters & Artisans market. He has spearheaded Indigenous gardens and a small business dedicated to Indigenous gardens called Miinikaan Innovation and Design\, and numerous community partnerships. His creation in 2017 of an Indigenous Culinary Arts curriculum\, a ceremonial in-depth land and food-based program\, led to some of the first traditionally planted Three Sisters gardens in the GTA. The gifts to Chef Johl of centuries-old ancestral seeds started the ongoing development of an extensive Indigenous seed bank. The expansion of NishDish’s Indigenous food gardens around the city laid the groundwork for the birth of a brand-new organization that Chef Johl founded in 2018\, called Ojibiikaan Indigenous Cultural Network. He is the founding Board President of the first and only not-for-profit dedicated to Indigenous Food Sovereignty in the GTA.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/plants-are-our-ancestors/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/plants-are-our-ancestors-an-anishinabe-creation-story-stylized-plants-of-the-boreal-forest-words_-Plants-are-our-Anishinabe-Ancestors.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250225T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250225T130000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250206T135214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250206T135214Z
UID:21276-1740484800-1740488400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:February Seed Growers Meetup
DESCRIPTION:Join the Monthly Seed Grower Meet-up! \nThe EFAO Seed Program’s Monthly Seed Grower Meetup is an inspiring online gathering where seed growers connect\, share\, and grow together. Whether you’re selecting\, saving\, breeding\, or simply curious about seeds\, this informal space is here to support and celebrate your work. \nFebruary is a time of both planning and reflection for seed growers—sorting through last season’s harvest\, refining breeding projects\, and dreaming of what’s to come. What seeds are you excited to start this year? What breeding work is on your mind? Whether you’re diving into new projects or continuing long-term selections\, this is the perfect space to share your goals\, ask questions\, and swap ideas to strengthen our resilient seed systems. \nIf you’ve attended any recent online events or Seedy Saturdays\, bring your reflections and questions—we’d love to hear what’s inspired you and what’s sparked your curiosity. \nWe warmly welcome all seed growers\, on-farm breeders\, and seed enthusiasts to join us. No matter your experience level\, your participation enriches our shared knowledge. So mark your calendars\, brew a cozy drink\, and join us as we nurture community\, one seed at a time. \nThis meet-up is open to everyone — EFAO members and non-members alike! \n🌱
URL:https://efao.ca/event/february-seed-growers-meetup/
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/Untitled-design-7.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250222T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250222T160000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250121T192642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250131T142918Z
UID:21174-1740229200-1740240000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Biochar Workshop at Hawk Feather Farm
DESCRIPTION:All Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this workshop free of charge! Please use the coupon code HAWK2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nJoin us for an outdoor workshop in Timmins\, Ontario\, where you’ll learn the complete process of making biochar! This hands-on experience will guide you through every step of the process\, from choosing materials to the numerous applications for livestock and soil management. You’ll even get to take some biochar home at the end! \nWhat is Biochar? \nBiochar is a stable\, carbon-rich material created through the controlled burning of organic matter in a low-oxygen environment\, a process called pyrolysis. It has been used for centuries as a soil amendment and is gaining renewed interest for its powerful benefits in ecological agriculture\, holistic land management and reducing the impacts of climate change. \nThis workshop is a great opportunity for: \n•    Farmers and gardeners looking to build healthier soils. \n•    Land stewards interested in carbon-smart practices. \n•   Anyone curious about sustainable agriculture and regenerative techniques. \nSpaces are limited! Come learn a practical\, eco-friendly skill while connecting with others passionate about land care and holistic management. \nAbout the hosts \nHawk Feather Farm was established in 2008 by John and Lois Caron\, who started their first organic market garden on a 1/4-acre plot of their 65-acre property. They introduced non-certified organic vegetables at the Mountjoy Farmer’s Market\, catering to consumers seeking healthier alternatives to conventionally grown produce. Within three years\, they expanded to one acre of irrigated vegetables and two acres of organic potatoes. In 2011\, they launched the first CSA in Timmins\, supplying 65 members with fresh produce until 2014. During this time\, they also began raising organic\, pastured chickens and pork. By 2014\, Hawk Feather Farm transitioned from vegetable production to focus on their dream of raising grass-fed beef through holistic land management\, or regenerative farming\, utilizing most of their 65 acres. Starting with five cows and a bull\, they expanded their herd to 60 cattle by 2016\, grazing on 150 acres\, including rented land. They continue to maintain 100% local farm gate sales. At Hawk Feather Farm\, perennial grasses are transformed into high-quality protein and fat by cattle raised on untreated pastures. Their regenerative farming practices mimic the natural behavior of wild herbivores through rotational grazing\, promoting soil\, animal\, and human health without synthetic fertilizers\, insecticides\, or pesticides. \nAgenda \n1:00pm: Arrive at Hawk Feather Farm for introductions and a welcome circle \n1:15pm: Filling the barrel and lighting the fire \n2:00-3:00pm: Main workshop knowledge transfer and instructions\, exploring biochar applications and uses\, handout provided\, Q&A \n3:00-4:00pm: Checking the barrel\, finish the burning\, quench and bag the biochar \n  \nThis workshop is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario. \n \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/biochar-workshop-at-hawk-feather-farm/
LOCATION:Hawk Feather Farm\, 270 Caron Road\, Timmins\, Ontario
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-5-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250220T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250220T143000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250205T194253Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250205T195749Z
UID:21256-1740056400-1740061800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:CSA Farmer Online Meet-up: Distribution Tips & Tricks
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate CSA Week with fellow CSA Farmers at this online meet-up. Curious how other farmers distribute their CSA shares? Looking for ideas and advice about how you can make your distribution more efficient? \nJoin us at this online meet-up to share ideas\, ask questions and meet other CSA farmers in Ontario through casual conversation.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/csa-farmer-online-meet-up-distribution-tips-tricks/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4AF9B1C7803B-1.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250219T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250219T210000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250120T164423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T201526Z
UID:21146-1739991600-1739998800@efao.ca
SUMMARY:NFU-O Presents: Planning\, Task Management\, & Delegation
DESCRIPTION:EFAO is pleased to be a supporting partner for this webinar series hosted by the National Farmers Union – Ontario! \n\n\nThis webinar is part of the NFU-O’s Cultivating Best Human Resource Practices on Small and Mid-scale Farms webinar series. Join for one session\, or for all! \nBeing a good manager means staying organized! Learn successful time-tracking\, strategic management and planning tips. Explore a variety of staff management approaches and how to motivate and evaluate staff. Learn how you can support employee routes to equity\, co-ops\, and/or other partnership. \nSpeakers: Carl Leslie\, Earth to Table: The Farm\, Susan Henry-Bassaragh\, Black Creek Community Farm and Ian Stutt\, Patchwork Gardens. \n    
URL:https://efao.ca/event/nfu-o-presents-planning-task-management-delegation/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Hiring-Incentive-14.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250219T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250219T191500
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250204T001632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250204T001632Z
UID:21239-1739988000-1739992500@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Small Grains Winter Webinar Series: Local Grain Processing
DESCRIPTION:Calling all grain growers\, millers\, distillers\, bakers and everyone interested in the connection between small grains and local food. \nWe keep hearing enthusiasm about eating local grains\, however there is a ‘missing middle’ in terms of resources for the farmers who grow grain to source options for cleaning\, processing and marketing. \nOur goal is to get interested stakeholders in the same Zoom-room to talk about what capacity already exists\, where the missing pieces are\, and how we can all support each other to grow this community. \nBring your experiences and be ready to share and brainstorm together – you won’t want to miss this conversation. \n  \nEFAO’s Small Grains Network is funded and supported by the Weston Family Foundation’s Soil Health Initiative.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/small-grains-winter-webinar-series-local-grain-processing/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/SGWWS2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250218T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250218T140000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250129T155827Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250131T152142Z
UID:21217-1739880000-1739887200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Finance February: Financial Planning for Farmers
DESCRIPTION:This session will be divided into three sections with the goal of furthering your understanding of common financial planning topics: \n\nGovernment Retirement programs – “Your baseline retirement plan”.\nEducation planning. “Gaming your Registered Education Savings Plan”\nSocially Responsible Investing. “Lets talk about values in your RRSP”\n\nEFAO’s Finance February webinar series is intended to support participants in building practical skills and knowledge to support smoother financial operations and overall farm financial wellbeing. This session will be suitable for anyone who hopes to grow their financial management and planning skills and knowledge. \nA recording will be sent to all registered participants within a few days of the webinar. \nThis workshop is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/finance-february-financial-planning-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/Finance-February.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250213T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250213T203000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250204T000038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250204T001742Z
UID:21234-1739473200-1739478600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Winter Meet-Up: Farmers Network for Black\, Indigenous\, & People of Colour
DESCRIPTION:Please join us on February 13 from 7:00 – 8:30 pm for an online Winter meet-up! Many of us in the Network had the pleasure of connecting at the in-person Meetup at the December EFAO Conference\, with keynote speaker and special guest Leah Penniman. \nThis online Meet-up will feature farmers from our Network presenting on their work\, with time for Q & A and social connection\, as well as invited guests on topics like mentorship\, funding opportunities\, educational programs and more (speakers to be confirmed). Find out about programs\, grants and other opportunities coming up in 2025.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/winter-meet-up-farmers-network-for-black-indigenous-people-of-colour/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:BIPOC Farmers Network Meetup
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Feb-13-BIPOC-Farmers-Meetup.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250212T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250212T210000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250120T163001Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T200738Z
UID:21138-1739386800-1739394000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:NFU-O Presents: Interpersonal Dynamics\, Training\, & Retention
DESCRIPTION:EFAO is pleased to be a supporting partner for this webinar series hosted by the National Farmers Union – Ontario! \n\n\nThis webinar is part of the NFU-O’s Cultivating Best Human Resource Practices on Small and Mid-scale Farms webinar series. Join for one session\, or for all! \nWant to create a friendly and co-operative work environment? You’ve come to the right place! Experts will share employee handbook and orientation designs\, training and development tips\, equity and discrimination policies\, stress and wellbeing measures\, staff retention strategies\, and more. \nSpeakers: Marcelle Paulin\, Sleepy G Farm\, Isaac Crosby\, Crosby Gitigaan & UofT Indigenous Garden\, Heather Thoma\, Many Ways Collective\, and Paul Wartman\, Many Ways Collective. \n  
URL:https://efao.ca/event/nfu-o-presents-interpersonal-dynamics-training-retention-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Hiring-Incentive-9.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250212T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250212T133000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250122T162612Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250207T160945Z
UID:21184-1739361600-1739367000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Digging Deep: Celebrating Okra from Seed to Plate
DESCRIPTION:In order to make our training and community building events accessible to all farmers and future farmers in Ontario\, EFAO strives to reduce financial barriers for registration by using a sliding scale model. To register using a sliding scale registration fee\, please complete this form. \nJoin us for an inspiring webinar featuring Chris Smith (executive director of the Utopian Seed Project and author of The Whole Okra)\, Ekow Stone (Farmer-Researcher and on-farm okra breeder at It’s Giving Farm)\, and Stephanie Wang (cookbook author and farmer at Le Rizen) as they dive into the incredible diversity of okra. \nFrom seed sourcing to growing\, harvesting\, marketing\, as well as breeding\, this session will explore how to cultivate high-quality okra while celebrating its cultural and culinary significance. Whether you’re a farmer\, gardener\, or food enthusiast\, you’ll gain practical insights to incorporate this versatile crop into your market or home garden. \nA Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants. \nAbout the Speakers: \nChris Smith is Executive Director of the Utopian Seed Project\, a crop-trialing nonprofit working to celebrate food and farming. Within this work\, Chris collaborates on The Heirloom Collard Project\, hosts a seasonal Trial to Table event series\, and publishes Crop Stories\, a crop-specific multimedia project. His book\, The Whole Okra\, won a James Beard Foundation Award in 2020\, and he is the co-host of The Okra Pod Cast. In 2023 Chris received the Organic Educator Award from The Organic Growers School and was named a Champion of Conservation by Garden & Gun. More info at utopianseed.org. \nEkow Stone has been working as a farmer and educator for the last 4 years focusing on youth engagement\, cut flower production\, and seed saving. He’s an artist working in the mediums of ink + pyrography\, and has exhibited in a number of galleries across Southern Ontario. He enjoys passing the time watching anime\, learning about ancient history and flower gazing. \nStéphanie Wang is the founder of Le Rizen in Frelighsburg\, Quebec. Growing organic Asian vegetables gives her the satisfaction of a job that feeds mouths and a lifestyle rooted in the natural cycle of the seasons. In 2023\, Stéphanie and her two sisters published “Asian Vegetables: Gardening. Cooking. Storytelling.” This book is a journey through a season of market gardening where readers will discover 15 Asian vegetables (including okra!)\, tips and ideas on how to grow them organically and cook them deliciously\, and 40 recipes from starter to dessert by chefs and other food-lovers. It also shares the unique stories of the Wang family\, who moved from China to Madagascar before emigrating to Quebec and elsewhere.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/digging-deep-celebrating-okra-from-seed-to-plate/
LOCATION:Ontario
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Okro-Photo-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250211T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250211T190000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250131T142629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250204T144132Z
UID:21222-1739296800-1739300400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Miinikaan: The Seed is You
DESCRIPTION:All Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge! Please use the coupon code MIIN2025 when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nGathering\, holding\, sharing\, collecting\, protecting and nurturing seeds helps us understand our origins. We are all seeds that carry stories from the land. Keeping us connected as a life-giving force that springs from the fertile soil’s energy and its duality of the Star systems. For millennia people have sustained abundance and produced many varieties of seeds to cultivate and nourish communities. Learn about Indigenous agroecological practices of the Anishinabe from soil regeneration to controlled burning and the Seven Sisters to Indigenous celestial calendar activities of planting and harvesting times of the 13 moons. \nThis webinar is part of EFAO’s Indigenous Outreach and Engagement Initiative\, which is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Agribusiness. \n  \nChef Johl Whiteduck is the owner of NishDish Marketeria and Catering\, an award-winning small business that’s been reclaiming and serving traditional Anishinaabe food since 2005. Chef Johl’s journey of Indigenous Food Sovereignty has led him to founding Ojibiikaan Indigenous Cultural Network\, along with the first Indigenous Harvesters & Artisans market. He has spearheaded Indigenous gardens and a small business dedicated to Indigenous gardens called Miinikaan Innovation and Design\, and numerous community partnerships. His creation in 2017 of an Indigenous Culinary Arts curriculum\, a ceremonial in-depth land and food-based program\, led to some of the first traditionally planted Three Sisters gardens in the GTA. The gifts to Chef Johl of centuries-old ancestral seeds started the ongoing development of an extensive Indigenous seed bank. The expansion of NishDish’s Indigenous food gardens around the city laid the groundwork for the birth of a brand-new organization that Chef Johl founded in 2018\, called Ojibiikaan Indigenous Cultural Network. He is the founding Board President of the first and only not-for-profit dedicated to Indigenous Food Sovereignty in the GTA.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/miinikaan-the-seed-is-you/
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-7.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250211T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250211T140000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250116T192642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250131T152118Z
UID:21103-1739275200-1739282400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Finance February: Annual Accounting Tips & Tricks
DESCRIPTION:Are you a farmer in Northern Ontario?  You can attend all four “Finance February” events free of charge.  Please fill out this form before registering to receive your COUPON CODE.  \nThis session will focus on successful annual accounting. Participants will build on the skills and topics covered in day-to-day bookkeeping to work toward annual accounting needs and reviews. This webinar will cover topics such as filing tax returns\, tax tips for farmers\,tax savings opportunities\, depreciation\, property tax\, and programs such as AgriInvest\,  AgriStability\, and Self-Directed Risk Management (SDRM) for Edible Horticulture. \nEFAO’s Finance February webinar series is intended to support participants in building practical skills and knowledge to support smoother financial operations and overall farm financial wellbeing.  \nThis session is intended for those with 5-7 years farming experience\, but will be suitable for anyone who hopes to grow their financial management and accounting skills and knowledge. It is strongly recommended for anyone wishing to participate in EFAO’s Vegetable Benchmarking study. \nA recording will be sent to all registered participants within a few days of the webinar. \nThis workshop is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/finance-february-annual-accounting-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/2h-media-h7dBE4zAL54-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250205T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250205T210000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250120T160336Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T200136Z
UID:21109-1738782000-1738789200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:NFU-O Presents: HR Fundamentals
DESCRIPTION:EFAO is pleased to be a supporting partner for this webinar series hosted by the National Farmers Union – Ontario! \n\n\nThis webinar is part of the NFU-O’s Cultivating Best Human Resource Practices on Small and Mid-scale Farms webinar series. Join for one session\, or for all! \nScared of the paperwork? Not anymore! Learn about employment standards and legislation\, health and safety and WSIB requirements; payroll and wages\, grants and cost-share programs\, and other general logistics. \nSpeakers: Fariha Nafees (Pfenning’s Organics)\, Dave Kranenburg (Graze & Gather and Kendall Hills Farm) & Sarah Dolamore (Mount Wolfe Farm)\, \n   \n\n\n  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/nfu-o-hr-fundamentals-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Hiring-Incentive-5.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250205T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250205T153000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241218T150245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241218T150245Z
UID:21038-1738764000-1738769400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Time Savers for Seed Savers
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’re a gardening chaos goblin or a lean farming aficionado – if you’re growing for seed\, then this event is for you! \nSeed production is a labour of love with tight margins\, where a little efficiency goes a long way. This farm club style event is a chance to see what other seed growers are doing and pick up some tips to save you time and energy\, so you can keep saving your seeds. \nJoin us for a panel of fun\, 5-minute lightning presentations from commercial seed growers sharing their favourite time-saving hacks. \n\nHarvesting seed in the field\nWet-processing pepper seeds\nDrying wet-processed seeds\nSmall plot threshing\nSeed cleaning\nAnd more!\n\nIf you’d like to join the panel and share a time-saving tip of your own\, please reach out to your local Bauta Family Initiative Regional Coordinator for more info. \nPlease note: this event will be recorded\, and will be offered in English\, with translated slides available in French.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/time-savers-seed-savers/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/https-cdn.evbuc_.com-images-911030123-152293759798-1-original.20241203-214919-e1734534093765.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250204T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250204T140000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250116T192050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250131T152118Z
UID:21097-1738670400-1738677600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Finance February: Bookkeeping Basics (and beyond)
DESCRIPTION:Are you a farmer in Northern Ontario?  You can attend all four “Finance February” events free of charge.  Please fill out this form before registering to receive your COUPON CODE.  \nThis session will focus on the nuts and bolts of daily bookkeeping and financial record keeping. Participants will learn what to keep track of in their business and how to track it\, as well as how to categorize expenses accurately and track farm finances in a way that makes tax season easier. Other topics covered include creating and keeping a chart of accounts\, the function of profit & loss statements\, using balance sheets\, and what different financial statements can help farmers understand about their business. \nEFAO’s Finance February webinar series is intended to support participants in building practical skills and knowledge to support smoother financial operations and overall farm financial wellbeing.  \nThis session is intended for those with 5-7 years farming experience\, but will be suitable for anyone who hopes to grow their financial management and accounting skills and knowledge. It is recommended for anyone wishing to participate in EFAO’s Vegetable Benchmarking study. \nA recording will be sent to all registered participants within a few days of the webinar. \nThis workshop is supported by funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/finance-february-bookkeeping-basics-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/stellrweb-djb1whucfBY-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250129T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250129T210000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250120T161846Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T195944Z
UID:21128-1738177200-1738184400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:NFU-O Presents: Hiring and Incentives
DESCRIPTION:EFAO is pleased to be a supporting partner for this webinar series hosted by the National Farmers Union – Ontario! \n\n\nThis webinar is part of the NFU-O’s Cultivating Best Human Resource Practices on Small and Mid-scale Farms webinar series. Join for one session\, or for all! \nFind out how to hire effectively! This session will include a discussion on deciding what type of employees will work best for you\, how to develop a job description and interview questions\, job advertising options\, and building an incentives package. \nSpeakers: Renée Primeau\, Tourne-Sol Farm\, Jessey Njau\, Zawadi Farm\, Luke Sheldrick\, Terramor Farm \n    \n\n\n  \n  \n 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/nfu-o-presents-hiring-and-incentives-2025/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Hiring-Incentive.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250129T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250129T130000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250115T140140Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250116T172134Z
UID:21078-1738152000-1738155600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:January Seed Growers Meetup
DESCRIPTION:Join the Monthly Seed Grower Meetup \nThe EFAO Seed Program’s Monthly Seed Grower Meetup is a vibrant online gathering where connections flourish\, and seed knowledge thrives. Whether you’re selecting\, saving\, breeding\, or growing seeds\, this informal space is designed to support and celebrate your work. \nAfter missing our December meetup\, we’re excited to reconnect and kick off the new year with renewed energy! January is a busy and reflective time for seed growers\, from making plans for the upcoming season to working through seeds saved last year. This is the perfect opportunity to come together\, share your work\, ask questions\, and exchange ideas to build a resilient seed system. \nWe warmly welcome all seed growers\, on-farm breeders\, and anyone curious about seeds to join us. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out\, your participation enriches our shared knowledge. Bring your questions\, reflections\, and hopes for the growing season ahead—we’ll explore them together and nurture our community\, one seed at a time. \nThis Meetup is open to everyone\, including EFAO members and non-members alike! Mark your calendars\, grab a cozy drink\, and let’s sow the seeds for a thriving seedkeeping community. 🌱
URL:https://efao.ca/event/january-seed-growers-meetup/
LOCATION:Ontario
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/20141224_114010.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250128T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250128T150000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241218T165138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T193237Z
UID:21044-1738072800-1738076400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Introduction to Soil Health
DESCRIPTION:Soil is the foundation of growing healthy food. In this interactive webinar\, we will discuss the types of soils and their attributes\, the role of soil organic matter\, and activities that contribute to degrading\, maintaining\, and building healthy soils. \nSpeaker: Sarah Larsen\, Research & Small Grains Programs Director at EFAO. Sarah will bring her perspective on soil using knowledge gained as an academic and as a Michif (Red River Métis) woman\, farmer\, and Water Protector. \nAll Indigenous growers\, land stewards and community members are welcome to attend this webinar free of charge! Please use the coupon code 100SOIL when filling out the registration form to receive free admission. \nThis webinar is part of EFAO’s Indigenous Outreach and Engagement Initiative\, which is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Agribusiness.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/introduction-to-soil-health/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Soil-workshop-e1716911561168.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250128T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250128T130000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20250116T184925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T200153Z
UID:21086-1738063800-1738069200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Finance February: Vegetable Benchmarking
DESCRIPTION:A group of EFAO farmers came together in 2024 to dig deep on farm financials and get transparent on the profit potential for ecological vegetable production. Their meeting sparked a new pilot benchmarking study at EFAO\, with the goal to expand collective knowledge of the factors that influence the financial resilience of ecological farms.  \nJoin this session to learn about the use of financial benchmarks in supporting small-scale ecological farm viability. Speakers will share the results of a benchmarking study by PASA which inspired similar conversations at EFAO\, and common challenges and tips for participating in benchmarking studies.  We hope that participants will leave with enthusiasm for this important area of research and next steps for participating in EFAO’s study. \nThis session kicks off Finance February\, an EFAO webinar series focused on supporting farm financial viability with practical skills and knowledge. Check out the EFAO Events page for more information. \nA Zoom link will be sent to all registered participants. \nFunding support for these workshops has been generously provided by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.  \n \n  \nAbout the speakers: \nAngie Koch‘s passion for vegetable production is rivalled only by her passion for spreadsheets and profitability analyses – a point of both pride and discomfort. She is excited by the potential to better understand the factors that contribute to farm viability and financial resilience. \nJohn Hendrickson coordinates research and training programs in organic and sustainable specialty crop production\, marketing\, and profitability at the Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His work focuses on the economics and profitability of fresh market vegetable farming. He is particularly passionate about farm viability as it relates to farm scale\, livelihood\, labor\, and equipment. \nMichael Guerci is a research coordinator at Pasa Sustainable Agriculture. He primarily coordinates and advocates for Pasa’s Financial Benchmark Study and Soil Health Benchmark Study. Prior to joining Pasa\, he worked on diversified vegetable farms for many years. He also holds a Master’s in Agricultural and Applied Economics from Virginia Tech and volunteered for the Peace Corps in the Philippines. \nHeather Newman works at EFAO as Research Coordinator\, supporting the team in the pilot year of the vegetable benchmark study.  She grew up farming on an organic mixed farm in Bruce County. After completing her BSc at the University of Waterloo\, Heather returned home to raise a family. As her family grew so did her own farm and food business. Heather is passionate about growing heritage varieties in an ecologically conscientious way\, growing the local food economy and creating unique\, delicious food products from local ingredients through her co-owned food company\, Two Birds One Stone. 
URL:https://efao.ca/event/finance-february-vegetable-benchmarking-2025/
LOCATION:Ontario
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/20230906_160339-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250114T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250114T143000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241105T191945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241105T192042Z
UID:20829-1736859600-1736865000@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring Cucurbit Genetics: Watermelon\, Melon\, & Cucumber Adaptation
DESCRIPTION:Are you a farmer interested in adapting cucurbit crops like cucumbers\, watermelons\, and melons for northern climates? Join us for an in-depth webinar with Dr Micheal Mazourek\, where we’ll explore breeding techniques\, disease resistance\, and adaptation strategies tailored for more northern growing conditions. Topics will include: \n\nCucurbit genetics\, and key traits to look for in regional adaptation including disease resistance\, earliness\, and cold tolerance\nThe pros and cons of different crossing strategies\nTips for breeding cucurbits in small spaces\n\nThis session will also cover practical tips on improving flavour\, stabilizing varieties\, and how to handle challenges with seed production in these crops. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced in plant breeding\, this webinar will provide valuable insights for adapting cucurbits to your region’s unique growing challenges. \nPlease submit your questions in advance to shape the discussion. \nWho Should Attend: \nFarmers\, breeders\, and seed enthusiasts interested in plant breeding and adapting crops to ecological conditions.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/exploring-cucurbit-genetics-practical-breeding-strategies-for-watermelon-melon-and-cucumber-adaptation/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/20230831_084237-scaled-e1730834360492.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241218T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241218T120000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241003T155230Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241216T145432Z
UID:20384-1734519600-1734523200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Virtual Research Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:It’s that time of year again—time to start shaping your questions and curiosities into research ideas!  \nThe virtual Research Office Hours are an open space to ask questions about EFAO’s Farmer-Led Research Program\, and join research staff\, farmer-researchers and fellow farmers 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.  \nIf you can not make these hours please feel free to schedule an appointment with one of our research team members. \n\nSarah Larsen\, Research Director\, sarah@efao.ca\nRebecca Ivanoff\, Seed Program Manager\, rebecca@efao.ca
URL:https://efao.ca/event/virtual-research-office-hours-5/
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/14-02-18-e1695844546434.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241211T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241211T120000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241003T155020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241021T155643Z
UID:20380-1733914800-1733918400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Virtual Research Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:It’s that time of year again—time to start shaping your questions and curiosities into research ideas!  \nThe virtual Research Office Hours are an open space to ask questions about EFAO’s Farmer-Led Research Program\, and join research staff\, farmer-researchers and fellow farmers 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 the sessions. You can attend all or pick the day that works best for you. Note that you will receive reminder emails before each workshop.  \n\nWednesday\, December 11\, 2024\, 11am-12pm\nWednesday\, December 18\, 2024\, 11am-12pm\n\nIf you can not make these hours please feel free to schedule an appointment with one of our research team members. \n\nSarah Larsen\, Research Director\, sarah@efao.ca\nRebecca Ivanoff\, Seed Program Manager\, rebecca@efao.ca
URL:https://efao.ca/event/virtual-research-office-hours-3/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/14-02-18-e1695844546434.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241203T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241203T170000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241029T173500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241115T190033Z
UID:20775-1733220000-1733245200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Earth & Sky Indigenous Growers Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this exciting all-day gathering bringing together Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to build community\, share food and ideas\, and get inspired by initiatives happening in other communities.\nProgram: \n\n9:00am: Registration opens (tea and coffee available)\n10:00am: Welcome and opening address\n10:30am: Overview of the day and invitation to participate in arts-based activities\n11:00am: Introductions followed by social songs and dancing\n12:00pm: Buffet lunch featuring locally-produced traditional foods & Makers Marketplace\n1:30pm: Panel session: Gather inspiration from three incredible panelists as they share stories of building community and coming together to support Indigenous food systems.\n3:00pm: Break – Makers Marketplace (tea and coffee available)\n3:30pm: Discussion: What do we need to reach our memories\, hopes and dreams for thriving Indigenous food systems?\n4:30pm: Closing and goodbye\n\nIndigenous Growers\, Artisans and Makers Marketplace\nDuring lunch and breaks be sure to visit the folks selling\, trading and/or raising awareness about their products and services at the Marketplace! \nIf you are an Indigenous grower\, artisan or maker and would like to have a table at the Marketplace\, please fill out this form. \n  \nArts-based Activities:\nSocial Songs & Dancing\nJoin in as local Indigenous dancers lead us in social songs and dances. This will be a great opportunity to meet others\, have some fun and get moving! \nPlacing Ourselves\nParticipants are invited to co-create a “needs and offers” map that will provide a visual representation of where we each call home\, as well as skills or resources we can share with others and skills we would like to learn. \nQuilting a Vision\nThroughout the gathering participants are encouraged to reflect on the question: What do your memories/hopes/dreams for a thriving Indigenous food system look like? and illustrate their answer on a paper “quilt square” using collage\, drawings and/or words. These individual squares will be joined together as the day goes on to create a “quilt” that represents a collective vision for Indigenous food sovereignty. \nAbout the Speakers:\nChandra Maracle was born and raised on the West side of Buffalo and is the mother of four daughters. She studied at SUNY Cortland College\, University at Buffalo\, NY and University of Salamanca\, Spain. She has worked as Youth Leader at Native American Community Services in Buffalo\, Graduate Assistant in Native American Studies at UB and Cultural Resource Specialist at the Native American Magnet School #19. She was a Diversity Educator with the National Conference for Community and Justice\, co-founder of the Indigenous Women’s Initiatives and has certifications in Postpartum Care\, Eating Psychology\, Massage\, Reiki and Yoga and is trained as a Waldorf Early Childhood Educator. Chandra is co-founder HAWI – Haudenosaunee and Waldorf Inspired and was a co-founder of Skaronhyase’ko:wa Tyohterakentko:wa tsi Yontaweya’tahkwa/the Everlasting Tree School\, and initiated the school’s nutrition program – Tyonnhehkwen Onkwaya’takenha:tshera. She was a collaborator on the Healthy Roots committee at Six Nations and developed the Haudenosaunee Food Guide for the Community Challenge. Chandra is founder of Kakhwa’on:we/Real People Eat Real Food\, exploring links between people\, food\, mothering\, homemaking\, art\, language\, technology and land. She is a graduate of the Onkwawen:na Kentyohkwa adult Mohawk language immersion program\, and is currently a PhD student at York University in the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change. Chandra is a Collaborator on The Earth to Tables Legacies Project\, a group of intergenerational and intercultural folks transforming the food system. \nKara Tremblay is an Algonquin Cree woman and a dedicated community member of Apitipi Anicinapek Nation. Throughout her time in the community\, she has consistently demonstrated her passion and commitment through various roles and numerous acts of service. During the COVID-19 pandemic\, Kara’s awareness of food insecurity deepened as she witnessed the struggles faced by her community. This inspired her to expand her knowledge and address these critical issues\, leading her to pursue education in sustainable agriculture and earn a Business Agriculture Co-op diploma from Northern College and Algonquin College. Her commitment is driven by a desire to enhance her gardening skills and ensure her community has access to nutritious\, high-quality produce. \nKara’s vision for Leading Cloud Gardens is both expansive and inspiring. She dreams of establishing a hydroponics center\, a cold storage room\, and a three-season greenhouse to extend the growing season and provide ample space for cultivating food. She envisions community members coming together to engage in all aspects of gardening—from soil preparation and planting seeds\, trees\, and shrubs to weeding\, harvesting\, composting\, and seed collecting. Through these activities\, Kara hopes to instill a strong sense of ownership\, pride\, and connection to the land\, creating a resilient and sustainable food system for future generations. \nTayohseron:tye\, Nikki Auten is a proud mother and tota (grandmother). She is Kanyen’keha:ka (Mohawk)\, turtle clan from Tyendinaga. She is currently employed as an Instructor at First Nations Technical Institute (FNTI). Nikki has been involved in several food-centered projects over the past 10 years\, including the Flint Corn Community Project; the Kenhte:ke Seed Sanctuary; Learning Centre; the Hwy 15 Indigenous Food Sovereignty Garden; and the Living Relations Research Project\, to name a few. Nikki’s education background is in Kanyen’keha language\, Teacher’s Education\, Indigenous Studies\, and Sustainability Studies. She is a self-described lifelong learner. \nTiffany Traverse is an Indigenous seed and land steward at Fourth Sister Farm\, a guest in the Peace Region of what’s now known as BC\, on Treaty 8 territory\, homeland of the Dane-zaa peoples. Having grown up on her Great Grandparent’s homestead\, on her peoples’ traditional Secwépemc territory in the Columbia Valley\, Tiffany’s love for growing food and stewarding the land\, comes as naturally as breathing. \nChloe Maracle is Kayen’keha:ka (Mohawk)\, Turtle Clan born and raised in Kenhte:ke (Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory). She has been in the role of garden intern with the Kenhte:ke Seed Sanctuary and Learning Center for over 2 years where she has been learning the care and cultivation of a seed collection of close to 300 varieties. Her passions include gardening\, sports & fitness\, being an Auntie and hanging out with her dog\, Honey. \nBecky Big Canoe is an accomplished AnishinaabeKwe mother\, sustainable housing proponent\, writer\, artist\, activist and powwow dancer. She lives on Georgina Island. She is currently actively involved in the Mno Aki Land Trust. \nThis gathering is taking place ahead of EFAO’s Annual Conference. Stay on for another two days of knowledge sharing and community building!
URL:https://efao.ca/event/earth-sky-indigenous-growers-gathering/
LOCATION:DoubleTree by Hilton Kingston\, 1550 Princess Street\, Kingston\, Ontario
CATEGORIES:Conference
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/For-website-event.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241203
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250206
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241029T205125Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241129T044525Z
UID:20785-1733184000-1738799999@efao.ca
SUMMARY:2024 EFAO Conference
DESCRIPTION:300+ attendees • 2-day trade show • 30 workshops • 2 keynotes • banquet dinner & socials\nEFAO’s annual conference draws farmers\, growers\, and food producers from across the food system for two days of intensive learning\, idea-sharing\, networking and celebration with good food and friends. With over 300 attendees\, the EFAO Conference connects you with people who care passionately about farming and food. \nEFAO is excited to welcome over 300 farmers and community members to this year’s annual gathering! Visit the conference page to see what’s on the program\, helpful info\, and more. \n\n\n\n\nRegistration for the EFAO Conference has now closed.  There are limited spaces available – please reach out conference@efao.ca to inquire.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/2024-efao-conference/
LOCATION:DoubleTree by Hilton Kingston\, 1550 Princess Street\, Kingston\, Ontario
CATEGORIES:Conference
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/Conference-announcement-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241202T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241202T123000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241009T122737Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241107T211059Z
UID:20431-1733131800-1733142600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Farmer-Led Research Symposium
DESCRIPTION:The Farmer-Led Research Symposium is an online gathering where EFAO members share their findings and insights from the 2024 research season. \nThis year you will learn about multi-farm trials involved in the Living Lab-Ontario project\, including: \n\nNo-till potato using deep mulch\nPlant available nitrogen from cover crops\n\nAlong with farmer-led research projects focused on: \n\nEggplant and red carrot variety trials\nPlant available nitrogen from cover crops in a pasture-raised chicken rotation\nAlfalfa persistence in pastures\nAlternative N fertilization for field corn\nAnd more!\n\nFree admission to the research symposium is included with a pass to the 2024 Annual EFAO Conference. If you are interested in learning more and registering for this year’s gathering\, please visit the conference page.  \nIn order to make our training and community building events accessible to all farmers and future farmers in Ontario\, EFAO strives to reduce financial barriers for registration by using a Pay What You Can model. To register please complete this form!
URL:https://efao.ca/event/farmer-led-research-symposium/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Virtual Meet-up
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/IMG_1565-scaled-e1728476359432.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241125T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241125T153000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241105T191424Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241105T191424Z
UID:20824-1732545000-1732548600@efao.ca
SUMMARY:CANOVI Farm Club: Heat Tolerant Lettuce
DESCRIPTION:At this CANOVI Farm Club\, we’ll go over the information and results of the cross-Canada 2024 Heat Tolerant Lettuce Trials and hear from growers across Canada about their experiences. We’ll reserve lots of time for questions\, sharing\, and discussion about your trialing experience and observations of the varieties! Presentations will be in English with translated slides.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/canovi-farm-club-heat-tolerant-lettuce/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024-2025-Webinar-Series-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241120T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241120T113000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241025T160816Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T160816Z
UID:20729-1732095000-1732102200@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Marketing and Distribution
DESCRIPTION:How do you create a successful marketing campaign for your business? This workshop will discuss how you conduct market research\, how you price your product and effectively promote it\, and how you evaluate market opportunities and possibilities.  We will also be looking at distributions and the various models for getting your product to the consumer. \nSpeakers: David Alexander\, Everdale and Stephanie Laing\, Fiddlehead Farm \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/marketing-and-distribution-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/allie-smith-1092451-unsplash-e1589468922302-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20241118T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20241118T163000
DTSTAMP:20260510T112512
CREATED:20241025T155935Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T155935Z
UID:20719-1731940200-1731947400@efao.ca
SUMMARY:Meeting Small Business Requirements on the Farm
DESCRIPTION:How do you ensure you are doing everything you need to be doing as a business?  Are you registered? Are you taking advantage of everything you should be? Is it better to be a sole proprietorship or to incorporate? Kristel Manes from the Guelph-Wellington Business Centre will help participants understand what they should be doing in order to meet all requirements and ensure best practices. \nSpeakers: Kristel Manes\, Executive Director of the Guelph-Wellington Business Centre and Tony Morris \nA recording of this webinar will be available. \nThis webinar is part of the Ignatius Farm New Farmer Training Program – a collaboration between Ignatius Jesuit Centre\, EFAO\, Everdale and the National Farmers Union – Ontario.
URL:https://efao.ca/event/meeting-small-business-requirements-2024/
LOCATION:Online\, Online via Zoom - link will be sent to registrants
CATEGORIES:Webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://efao.ca/wp-content/uploads/eco-warrior-princess-lUShu7PHIGA-unsplash-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR