Table of Contents

Printed Acrobat Reader Page #’s Page # Main Newsletter (for all regions) Water Initiative — an Update ...... 1,2 2,3 Putting Canada First – An Architecture for Agricultural Policy in the 21st Century ...... 1 2 Scotia Water Management Conference...... 2 3 Safety Net Update...... 2 3 Under the Microscope — Understanding Conflict With Neighbours...... 3 4 Does Farming Have You Stressed?...... 3 4 Natural Products Marketing Council...... 4 5 Farm Producers Now Offered Greater Access to Investment Tax Credits . . . . 4 5 AgriTECH Park... Atlantic Canada’s Bio-economy Village ...... 5 6 Country Roads...... 6 7 Ninth NA Blueberry Research & Extension Workers Conference ...... 6 7 Preventive Weed Control...... 7 8 Pesticide Certificate Changes...... 7 8 Livestock Workshop...... 7 8 4-H News...... 8 9 Royal Bank to Host 4-H Interprovincial Exchange Program ...... 8 9 Camp Rankin to Open for 30th Season...... 8 9 Events ...... 9 10 NSAC Continuing Education Courses ...... 9 10

Custom Newsletter Pages (for individual regions) West Hants, Kings, Lunenburg and Queens Counties...... 10 11 Cape Breton region...... 10 12 East Hants, Cumberland, Colchester and Halifax Counties ...... 10 13 April 2002 Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and Fisheries

Nova Scotia Water Initiative~ an Update

On December 7, 2001, Agriculture The on-farm consultations pilot quality; riparian and manure and Agri-Food Canada Minister, Lyle consisted of touring three water management; and water impound- Vanclief announced the availability of management and development ments. In addition, topics such as, $300,000 for Nova Scotia to address specialists from PFRA across Nova off-site cattle watering systems and water shortage issues in drought- Scotia for the month of March. harvesting and storing water during stricken areas of the province. The These individuals (Barclay Schuba, the winter and spring run-periods funding is intended to be directed at Rob May and Curtis Snell) met with were well received and generated work which will help quantify and numerous producers from Yarmouth good discussion. Although the qualify the availability of water to Cape Breton to discuss a wide specialists returned to the Prairies at sources in the water short areas. range of drought-related issues and the end of March, PFRA can still be Initiatives will be co-ordinated by to provide some prairie-style options approached for advice on unique Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada for addressing them. Topics of water problems. through the Prairie Farm Rehabilita- discussion included: pasture tion Administration (PFRA). The management in drought situations; project manager for this initiative is well siting and maintenance; water Continued on next page Stella Fedeniuk, District Manager for the PFRA District Office in Brandon, Manitoba.

In January 2002, meetings were held with representatives of various federal Putting Canada First: An and provincial departments, the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture and Architecture for Agricultural Policy the Growers Water Group (represent- in the 21st Century ing interests of Horticulture Nova Scotia) to identify key priorities for The Government of Canada and the innovation, renewal, and business this funding. Four initiatives were provincial and territorial govern- risk management. The framework, identified: ments are working with the which is based on the setting of 1. On-farm consultations (pilot) agriculture and agri-food industry common goals for each element, 2. Water Management Symposium and interested Canadians to entails important benefits for the (March 26 and 27 in Coldbrook) develop an architecture for agricul- sector and ultimately the general 3. Watershed assessments for tural policy for the 21st century. public. Cornwallis, Habitant and Pereaux The objective is for Canada to be river watersheds the world leader in food safety, Accordingly, governments have 4. Provincial well database innovation and environmentally launched a national dialogue about conversion and groundwater responsible production. the policy direction with stake- assessments for the Annapolis holders and interested Canadians to Valley. To realize this vision, governments develop the proposed policy have agreed in principle on an approach. To obtain additional action plan for an agricultural information and contribute to this policy framework composed of five dialogue, visit elements: Food safety and food www.agr.gc.ca/ puttingcanadafirst quality, environment, science and or call 1-800-622-6231. Agriculture and Fisheries 1 Continued... Scotia Water Management Conference Nova Scotia Water Initiative Part of the funding was used to More than 120 people involved in The conference was intended to help offset costs of the Water the agricultural industry discussed farmers with developing and Management Symposium which was practical water management managing their own on-farm water held in Coldbrook on March 26 and strategies at the Scotia Water projects. They benefited from the 27. Management Conference March 26 opportunity for plenty of informal and 27. networking and discussion. Most Comprehensive watershed assess- operators who attended are in ments for the Cornwallis, Habitant On the first day, participants horticultural production. They came and Pereaux watershed areas will be attended sessions on climate change from County all the way undertaken by independent consul- and water as it relates to produce through to Digby County. tants. It is expected that the final quality, the cropping system, and reports generated will outline short- environmental issues. The conference was organized with term and long-term surface and the cooperation of Agriculture and ground water solutions. Also, they The second day provided sessions Agri-Food Canada, Prairie Farm will provide possible infrastructure about irrigation systems, scheduling, Rehabilitation Administration projects, which will address water sources and storage; water licensing, Division, the Department of shortages and provide a comprehen- requirements and controls; and how Agriculture and Fisheries, the sive understanding of the ability of farmers manage water to survive Agricultural Development Institute, these areas to sustain agricultural drought. and the Nova Scotia Federation of growth. Agriculture.

The final initiative will involve converting the existing electronic well database in the province into a more user-friendly form for data entry, reporting and retrieval purposes. This will then be inter- preted with existing geological, hydrogeological and bedrock data for the purposes of measuring the Safety Net Update size and shape and water-storing NISA, CFIP, Crop Insurance ability of the various aquifers. The Robin Bremner, NSDAF pilot testing of the data interpretation work will be undertaken in the It is Income Tax season again and To receive an application package Annapolis Valley. Ultimately, this time to start thinking about NISA. for NISA or CFIP contact information should assist the Fill out the joint form “NISA and Robin Bremner at 902-893-6374 province in better understanding the Farming Income” (T1163) to submit You may also call NISA at aquifers for allocating and permit- your farm tax return and NISA 1-800-665-6472 and CFIP at ting purposes. application together. 1-888-343-1064

The watershed and groundwater The full entitlement deadlines for For Crop Insurance on new acres of assessment work is expected to be NISA applications are June 15, 2002 Spring Grain, Soybeans, Peas and completed around the end of for individuals and June 30, 2002 for Beans, Potatoes and Corn, the September. corporations. application deadline is May 1, 2002. Contact the Nova Scotia Crop and Applications for the 2001 Canadian Livestock Insurance Commission at Farm Income Program (CFIP) are 1-800-565-6371 for more informa- now available. The deadline to tion. submit a 2001 final application is October 1, 2002. If you received assistance through the CFIP Interim process, you must submit a final application.

NET INCOME STABILIZATION ACCOUNT Canadian Farm Income Progr am 2 Under the Microscope – Understanding Conflict with Neighbours Lori Kittilsen Business Management Resource Library

The potential for conflict is a risk Conflict begins with a perceived Developing a proactive strategy to deal facing many farm businesses today. threat, perceived injury, unmet need with risks could save you a great deal The agricultural industry has been or frustrated aspiration. It is not of time, stress, energy and money. addressing more and more conflict uncommon for people to magnify the Simply put, farmers who avoid causing within their communities in recent size and/or severity of a threat and, in concern will lower their risk of years than it has in the past. Do you no time, a minor issue is magnified as encountering conflicts. understand conflict, the risk it a threat to an entire community. presents to your business and how to Easier said than done? You may see the manage it? Avoiding problems in a community reality that farming can be dusty, noisy, begins well before there are any and often stinky work. On the other As society’s concern for the environ- problems, with the establishment of hand, farming has been placed under ment and health have risen, the agri- “social equity.” Social equity is the the microscope, like it or not, and food industry and its practices have goodwill your neighbours feel toward business managers must take proactive been placed under the microscope. you. measures to ensure it remains a vital Farmers now find themselves answer- part of the community. ing to urbanites, lobby groups, If you view this social equity as governments at all levels, non-farm equity in a bank account, then in good Should you wish to look closer at this rural residents and neighbours. times you should invest through subject the Canadian Farm Business Contending with these stakeholders, deposits so that if problems arise you Management council has an excellent farmers face environmental, eco- have some good will on which to resource “Farming with Neighbours,” nomic, political, social and technolog- draw. If you have no equity in your available to assist producers with ical issues and conflicts. account with the community, on the preventing and resolving community other hand, problems can escalate conflicts over farming practices. To Most of the criticism placed on quickly. borrow this from the Business Canadian farms fall into one of 12 Management Resource Library, contact categories: air pollution, water Being a good neighbour, educating the Business Management and pollution, waste management, the community about your practices, Economic Development division at chemicals, land degradation, wildlife having a community relations 902-893-6580. To purchase this and fish protection, bio-diversity, program for your farm and contribut- resource visit www.Farmcentre.com. resource management, public access, ing to your community are excellent zoning and planning, unkept farm- ways to build your social equity. steads and aesthetic despoilment. It is important that farmers take time As a result of this close scrutiny, the to understand their neighbours’s Does Farming Have role of Canadian farmers and the potential concerns, find out what You Stressed? landscape on which you farm has constitutes acceptable practices and been permanently altered to include be aware of the attention agricultural A personal, confidential, free service for Nova Scotia farm families feeling addressing risk and community issues are getting on a larger front. the stress of working under difficult concern. weather and market conditions. Take steps to minimize the negative The risk for conflict can be impacted impact of your operation and attempt The Farm Family Support Center by change under your control or far to operate well above minimum Call 1-877-418-7555 if you need beyond your control. These changes, standards. Conduct farm audits and someone to talk to. whether they be international, adapt quickly to changing regulations national or regional in nature, can and legislation. A service provided by the NS Farm impact your business, community and Health and Safety Committee and the agricultural industry. the NS Department of Agriculture and Fisheries under the direction of Mirkwood Mediation Services. 3 Natural Products Marketing Council Round Table on Marketing New Appointments & Governance George D. Burris, General Manager Dave Livingstone, P.Ag., NSDAF Effective March 1, 2002 the Natural Products Marketing Council has a new On February 18, 2002 the Council Chairperson, a new member and a returning member. All are well known to hosted a Round Table on Marketing the Nova Scotia agriculture industry. and Governance. The event was a success and was well received by Rollie Hayman has been appointed as Chair of the Council. Rollie is a former Marketing Boards and Council Director of Extension and Executive Director of Agricultural Services with participants. the Department of Agriculture and Marketing.

The meeting brought together all Jeanne Cruikshank has been appointed as a member of the Council. Jeanne is commodity boards under the Natural the current Vice-President (Atlantic Region) of the Canadian Council of Products Marketing Act, and the Grocery Distributors. Dairy Industry Act. Representatives of all Boards were in attendance and Michael Scothorn has been reappointed as a member of the Council. Michael participated. is a milk producer and former member of the Nova Scotia Dairy Commission and the Canadian Milk Supply Management Committee. Participants heard from Jeanne Cruikshank, Vice-President, Atlantic Leaving the Council are Henry Bowers (Chair), Leta Ells and Linda Grant. Region, Canadian Council of The contributions of these dedicated individuals to the Council and to orderly Grocery Distributors and Rod Stork, marketing in Nova Scotia have been significant over the past five years. In Chair, Ontario Farm Products particular we wish to thank Henry for his quiet yet strong leadership during a Marketing Commission. Ms. period of many changes. Cruikshank’s topic was Responding to Marketing Changes. Her presentation focused on issues and opportunities from the distributors perspective. Mr. Stork’s topic was Staying Ahead of the Curve in Farm Producers Now Offered Greater Regulated Marketing. His presentation dealt with ongoing Access to Investment Tax Credits issues in Ontario with respect to Henry Vissers, Pork Nova Scotia marketing system adjustments, marketing board mandates and Canadian agricultural producers Tax credits will be available to governance, federal/provincial who contribute funds for scientific farm producers who make agreements and producer-buyer research and experimental devel- financial contributions towards relations. All of these issues create opment will now receive credit for SRED through agricultural constant change in the agricultural their investment, the federal organizations of which they are industry there, and in Nova Scotia as government has announced. members. In the agriculture well. industry, investments of this kind Farm producers now have greater are often referred to as check-offs, Participants enjoyed the opportunity access to investment tax credits assessments, or levies to finance to come together to discuss common through the Scientific Research research and development. issues. More round table discussions and Experimental Development are envisioned for the future. (SRED) Program – through an For more go to: initiative of the Canada Customs http://www.agr.gc.ca/cb/news/200 and Revenue Agency (CCRA) in 2/n20206ae.html association with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC).

4 Atlantic Canada’s Bio-economy Village

A 21st century biological revolution The Park is currently home to the AgriTECH Park offers its clients is underway – traditional agriculture Agricultural Development Institute, flexible leasing arrangements, will have a very different face in this a unique industry-led organization conferencing services and an century than it did during the that acts as a catalyst for planned adaptable land-base in a quiet industrial revolution of the last change and client empowerment in pastoral setting just minutes from the century. AgriTECH Park is poised the agri-food industry. Dairy Trans Canada Highway. A section of to become a prominent player in the Farmers of Nova Scotia, the the Cobequid Trail passes through growth and development of this marketing and lobby group for the the Park available for quiet exciting new bio-economy. province’s largest agricultural sector, recreation, and an on-site aquatic has offices on site. Other tenants centre is also accessible to clients The Park, located in Truro, Nova include Azar Agriculture (a research and guests. Scotia, is linked to the Nova Scotia consulting firm), Nova Scotia Co- Agricultural College, where operative Council, Canadian Within the next several months, researchers have identified Executive Services Organization, AgriTECH Park hopes to welcome opportunities for new product and Nova Mariculture (an aquaculture new clients, resource-based technological developments in the consulting firm) and Bridco Values development agencies, researchers life sciences sector. An increasing (and R & D company focused on and other stakeholders to its need for analysis of the environment water quality research and value- picturesque setting. This co-location and social impact of agricultural added mineral products). of innovative thinkers in the field of systems is also driving the research biological sciences will result in a and development initiatives in the AgriTECH Park is also home to the vibrant, dynamic bio-economy region. The long-term vision for Bio-Environmental Engineering village. Access to the scientific AgriTECH Park is to become a Centre (BEEC), a research and community, modern laboratories and centre for education, extension demonstration site operated jointly graduate students at the Nova Scotia services and innovation with a focus by the Nova Scotia Agricultural Agricultural College will give the on the bio-economy sectors of College and Dalhousie University. Park a competitive edge and lead to agriculture, aquaculture and food. The BEEC’s main building is increased collaborative initiatives There appears to be a tremendous surrounded by agricultural land used between researchers and industry. opportunity in the area of for commercial-scale research plots. There are tremendous opportunities environmental remediation science; Housed within the Centre are a dairy for new product development in the however, the transfer of the milkhouse pilot plant, a greenhouse, rapidly expanding life sciences technology has often stumbled laboratory and an instrumented soil economy. Breakthroughs in the because of a lack of infrastructure tillage facility. There is a fields of genomics, environmental support and industry/research constructed wetland system near the remediation, energy development, community collaboration. The Centre, deadstock composting sites, nutraceuticals and materials science importance of environmental farm a meteorological monitoring station, are changing the face of modern planning is also driving the need for a small-scale peat filter, tile drained agriculture. commercially available solutions and experimental fields and water AgriTECH Park can play a key role quality research. AgriTECH Park, Atlantic Canada’s in bringing the environmental bio-economy village, is open for research community together with business. the farm community through its incubating commercialization opportunities.

5 Ninth North American Blueberry Research and Extension Workers Conference

We invite you to reserve August 18 Accommodations to get the reduced room rate of $159 to 21, 2002, for a conference on You are encouraged to reserve rooms + 16.5% tax per night for single/ blueberries at the Prince George at the Prince George Hotel where all double occupancy. Hotel, in Halifax, Nova Scotia poster and oral sessions will be held. following the 26th ISHS Congress in Participants should make their own To receive additional information Toronto. reservations by calling 1-800-565- concerning this conference please www.nsac.ns.ca/conferences/nabrew 1567 before July 18, 2002. Mention email [email protected] or call the NABREW conference and dates 902-893-8376. Tentative Conference Program Sunday, August 18 Optional pre-conference tour ($25 including lunch) to wild blueberry fields, Oxford Frozen Foods Ltd., Nova Scotia Wild Blueberry Institute; Reception at the Prince George Hotel. Monday, August 19 Opening special session on Wild Blueberry History, Oral and Poster Presentations at the Prince George Claire Hanlon Smith, NSDAF Hotel. Tuesday, August 20 A new tourism initiative combining Oral and Poster Presentations, agriculture, forestry and the natural The creation of this promotional evening banquet at the Prince beauty of Central Nova Scotia is soon brochure has been a co-operative George Hotel. to be launched. “Country Roads” is a effort with participation from the Wednesday, August 21 brochure featuring 32 businesses in agricultural and forestry producers, Optional post-conference tour the Central Nova Scotia area regional tourist and development ($50 including lunch) of highbush (Cumberland, Colchester, Pictou and associations, industry associations and wild blueberry fields and plots, East Hants counties). and government departments. Plans Blueberry Acres, Grand Pre Winery are also underway to develop a and Rainbow Farms freezing facility. The Country Roads brochure invites fall/winter promotional brochure. locals and visitors to learn about the Registration Fees: many unique agricultural, forestry The Country Roads brochure will be Full fees will include the Sunday and fisheries related experiences distributed through Nova Scotia's reception, Monday and Tuesday throughout this region. visitor information centres and the lunch and nutrition breaks, Tuesday Central Nova and evening banquet, registration An easy-to-read map outlines 32 Tourist Associations. Watch for a materials, abstract booklet, and stops along our highways and bi-ways special ad in Saltscapes magazine in proceedings of the conference. where visitors can take in the beauty May. and bounty of Central Nova Scotia. Full Fees (early registration): Our spring and summer seasons For more information on this $180, tax included. showcase a number of natural exciting agri-tourism promotion, Late Registration Fee: (after July 18) wonders. Enjoy the taste of pure contact Claire Hanlon Smith at 902- $200, tax included. maple syrup, the blossoms of flowers, 893-4491, the Central Nova Tourist foliage, the birth of new farm Association at 1-800-895-1177 or animals, digging for clams, lobster in the Pictou County Tourist season, as well as the many farm Association at 1-877-81-OCEAN. markets and shops that carry an array of local products.

6 Preventive Weed Control Rick Hoeg, NSDAF Integrated weed management utilizes The Government of Canada, through • controlling weeds in ditches, a number of categories of weed the Plant Protection Act and the banks, right-of-ways and control which include preventive, Seeds Act, regulates the import and uncropped areas physical, cultural, biological, and export of plant pests and sets • not feeding weed screenings to chemical controls. Preventive weed standards for weed content and livestock control is one aspect of this process quality of crop seeds. In Nova Scotia which is often overlooked. the Weed Control Act limits the introduction and spread of noxious Preventing weeds from becoming Preventive control simply means to weeds in the province by requiring established is often the most keep weeds from invading your land. landowners to practice sanitary weed practical means of control. Start by Weeds may spread by a variety of control of regulated species. knowing what weed pressures you ways such as wind, water and have. Producers should scout their animals including human activity. Weed sanitation involves methods farm regularly and accurately The introduction of one or a few which ensure new weed seeds are not identify which weeds they have plants may not have a significant carried onto the farm. Weed present and develop a management effect on crop yields, however, once sanitation prevents weeds on the plan. Recently the BC Ministry of introduced, a weed can spread and farm from going to seed, and Agriculture, Food and Fisheries persist, increasing the potential for prevents the spread of perennial published the manual, Seven Steps yield loss and cost of control in future weeds which reproduce vegetatively. to Managing Your Weeds, which years. It makes sense to take steps to Some examples of sanitary methods could be helpful in this process. It is prevent the introduction of new include: available as a download or by mail weeds and to identify and eliminate order at http://www.weeds.bc.ca. • planting clean crop seed small patches of troublesome weeds before they become a big problem. • controlling individual plants or small infestations before they The components which make up reproduce Livestock Workshop preventive weed control include • cleaning equipment before moving 4-H members in Central, Eastern regulation, seed certification and from infested to non-infested areas and Cape Breton Island Regions are sanitation. invited to participate in a series of livestock workshops scheduled for May 4, 2002. These workshops will be hands-on, intensive Pesticide Certificate Changes sessions, with instructors working with small groups of members It has been five years since In the interim, the department has according to their experience level. mandatory certification for all issued Temporary Certificates to The focus for each project will be applicators of commercial pesticides those who have been re-certified or judging and showmanship, with came into effect. The certificates newly certified. The Temporary approximately two hours dedicated were valid for a five-year period and Certificates will remain valid to each topic. Leaders and parents thus a large number are expiring this (regardless of the expiry on the are encouraged to attend the year, most of which are becoming Temporary Certificate) until the new sessions. All workshops will run recertified. wallet cards are issued. Anyone from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More purchasing commercial pesticide information and application forms The Department of Environment and should be able to produce either a can be obtained from your general Labour is in the process of changing valid wallet card or a Temporary leader! to a new data management system. Certificate issued since January All of the department's certification 2002. Location Date Projects data is being entered into the new Offered system, after which applicators will All vendors of commercial Antigonish Saturday Dairy be issued new wallet cards. Those pesticides have a list of recently re- Exhibition May 4 Poultry Grounds Waterfowl currently becoming re-certified will certified applicaotrs, supplied by the receive their cards first, once the Department of Environment and Pictou Saturday Beef database transfer is complete. Labour. Exhibition May 4 Sheep Grounds 7 4-H News 4-H Members Compete 4-H Members Gather at Annual Weekend for Atlantic Eastern Breeders Incorporated Showcase Three hundred 4-H members are Seventy 4-H members from Atlantic 4-H staff with the Department of preparing to attend 4-H Weekend at Canada will be selected to Agriculture and Fisheries provide the Nova Scotia Agricultural College participate in the annual Eastern organizational skills on behalf of the in Truro, from May 10 –11, 2002. Breeders 4-H Showcase June 23–25, Atlantic 4-H Committee to help This two-day event is a opportunity 2002 at the Nova Scotia Agricultural make the showcase possible. While for the best 4-H regional public College in Truro. The members will at this event 4-H members will tour speakers and demonstrators to learn about large animal the facilities at the Nova Scotia compete at the provincial level. management and show preparation Agricultural College to see and hear practices from leaders in the about learning opportunities As well as communication contests, industry. available to them. 4-H members will compete in the woodsman and square dancing Eastern Breeders Incorporated has During the workshop, experienced competitions. One highlight of the sponsored the training event for the show people will teach the finer weekend is the selection of the past 13 years. Along with financial points of show preparation to the Provincial 4-H Host and Hostess, the assistance, it provides the Atlantic participants. 4-H members will then official youth representatives for the event with highly qualified staff to work on their own animals to 4-H program in Nova Scotia. This ensure 4-H members learn the most prepare their cattle to participate in year represents the 30th anniversary current techniques in clipping, the beef and dairy show at 10 a.m on of the Host and Hostess competition showing, and herd management. June 25 at the MacMillan Show and former winners will be invited to The intensive training 4-H beef and Centre at the Exhibition Grounds in attend 4-H Night in Nova Scotia. dairy members from Atlantic Canada Truro. Awards will be presented to will receive prepares them to be the winners in each class at that 4-H Night in Nova Scotia, on better contenders in the show ring event. The public is welcome to Saturday night, is the finale that and leaders in the agricultural attend the cattle show to see first showcases the talented 4-H industry. hand the skills of these young members. Top overall winners leaders in agriculture. present their winning speeches and demonstrations, entertainment, and square dancing. During this time, awards are presented to the winners of all competitions and to members Royal Bank to Host 4-H and leaders who have won a National Interprovincial Exchange Program 4-H Travel Award. The public is welcome to attend the weekend TM events and to experience this important aspect of the 4-H program. Five Nova Scotia 4-H members will The Nova Scotia delegates winning experience customs and lifestyles in this travel award were selected other provinces as they travel on the through an interview process which 40th annual Royal Bank of Canada was based on their 4-H and Camp Rankin to Open 4-H Interprovincial Exchange begins community involvement. The for the 30th Season July 2, 2002. While on this two- Atlantic 4-H delegates travelling to week National 4-H Award Program, the various parts of Canada celebrate Nova Scotia's provincial 4-H camp 4-H members also have the their achievement at a send off will open its doors for the 30th opportunity to exchange ideas and banquet hosted by the Royal Bank. summer on June 30, 2002. Camp information on agriculture with other Rankin, located on the Bras d'Or rural youth. Lakes, gives youths an unparalleled experience of fun, skills, friendship and beautiful surroundings.

8 Events NSAC Continuing PROVINCIAL Education Courses Spring 2002 May 10–11 4-H Weekend – Nova Scotia Agricultural College, Truro April 22 – 25 June 23–25 Eastern Breeders 4-H Showcase – Bovine Artificial Insemination Nova Scotia Agricultural College, Truro April 22 – May 3 August 18–21 Ninth North American Blueberry Research and Tree Worker Extension Workers Conference, Halifax May 6 – 17 Arboriculture May 25 Weeds in Lawns & Gardens: 4-H Events ID & Management EASTERN REGION May 26 – 31 Introductory Floral Design May 4 Multi Region Livestock Workshop – Eastern Nova Scotia June 1 Exhibition Grounds, Dairy, Poultry Waterfowl, 10 a.m. Weed Management Workshop for June 1 Pictou County 4-H Skills Day – Pictou 4-H Barn Landscapers Licensed pesticide applicators can SOUTHWESTERN REGION obtain five Pesticide Re-certification Program (PRCP’s) points by taking April 20 Western Regional Rally – NSCC, Lawrencetown the Weed Management course. By May 21 Annapolis 4-H Judging Clinic – Exhibition Grounds, obtaining sufficient points individuals Lawrentetown no longer need to rewrite the pesticide applicator’s exam every five years. May 24–26 Fluff'n'Buff Beef/Dairy/Sheep/Goat Workshop – Please note that the Nova Scotia Exhibition Grounds, Lawrencetown Department of the Environment and May 26 & 28 Annapolis 4-H Judging Days – Exhibition Grounds, Labour has stipulated that a maximum Lawrencetown of five PRCP’s can be accumulated in June 1 Annapolis Light Horse Clinic – Exhibition Grounds, one calendar year. Lawrencetown June 2 Annapolis Light Horse Point Show #1 – Exhibition For information please contact: Grounds, Lawrencetown The Centre for Continuing & Distance Education June 4 & 11 Yarmouth 4-H Judging Days Nova Scotia Agricultural College Tel: 902-893-6666 Fax: 902-895-5528 Email: [email protected]

Your Agricultural Resource Coordinators

West Hants, Kings, Lunenburg, East Hants, Cumberland, Colchester, Cape Breton Island: & Queens counties: & Halifax counties: Bill MacLeod – Arthur Pick – Arthur Pick – Tel: (902) 563-2000 Tel: (902) 679-6005 (Tues./Thurs.) Tel: (902) 893-7314 (Mon./Wed./Fri.) Fax: 563-3435 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Weldon Smith – Pictou, Antigonish, & Guysborough Annapolis, Digby, Yarmouth, & Tel: (902) 679-6006 counties: Shelburne counties: Fax: 679-6062 Kevin Bekkers – Dennis Moerman – [email protected] Tel: (902) 863-4705 Tel: (902) 837-5161 Fax: 863-7342 Fax: 837-7696 [email protected] [email protected]

9 West Hants, Kings, Lunenburg, and Weldon Smith Regional News ~ Queens Counties – Valley Region Arthur Pick Agricultural Resource Coordinators Spring time has arrived and the busy time on most farms is here. We would Agricultural Awareness encourage all to take those few extra minutes to check safety items before beginning your work. For machinery that will be traveling on the road, make Kings County Federation of sure slow moving vehicle signs are in place and use flashing lights when Agriculture had a booth at the recent possible to alert those on the roadways with you. Be very careful when you Home Show in Kentville. It was a have larger and very wide pieces of equipment on the highway as they are good promotional item for the difficult to handle on some of the narrow roads. organization and provided a good opportunity to tell the public what If it’s a long day, take a break from time to time just to keep yourself alert on the agricultural industry in Kings the job. Please discourage children who want to ride with you on the tractor County is all about. as there is no seat for them. Please work safely for your family’s benefit. For members of the Federation of Agriculture in Kings County, the Federation have hats and t-shirts for sale. Help promote your organization. See a Director to Events purchase these items. April 26 Lunenburg/Queens Federation of Agriculture Spring Social – Lunenburg-Queens Federation of Hebbville Fire Hall, 7 p.m. for meet and greet; 7:30 p.m. supper. Agriculture are working on a special Contact Directors for tickets. display of photographs of agriculture May 11 Spring Cattle Sale – Bridgewater Exhibition Grounds. in their region. This will be Sponsored by Lunenburg-Queens Co. Federation of Agriculture presented at the South Shore 4-H Events Exhibition in 2002. The photos look at commodities produced in the April 20 Valley Regional Rally – O’Brien Building, Windsor Exhibition region and show statistics of their Grounds, 1–5 p.m. value. April 20 South Shore Regional Rally – 10 a.m., Lower Ohio Hall, Shelburne Co. Hants County April 28 Kings Co. Woodsmen Competition – Horton Community Forage Day Results Centre, 2 p.m. May 4 Hants Co. Livestock & Non-livestock Judging Clinic & Corn Silage 1st – Bovidae Farm, Wilson’s, Falmouth Bowling Party – Judging 10 a.m.– 12 noon, Windsor Exhibition 2nd – Bethron Farm, Densmore’s, Noel Grounds Grass Haylage May 4 Lunenburg Co. Showmanship Clinic – Waterloo 1st – Dykene Farm, Don Wilson, Falmouth 2nd – Grand Elm Farm, Harvey’s, Newport May 4 Lunenburg Co. Dine a Nite – Bridgewater Legion. Legume Haylage Dinner at 7 p.m., dance to follow. Tickets $20.00/person 1st – Bovidae Farm - Wilson’s, Falmouth available from 4-H leaders or at the 4-H office 2nd – Levi D. Friesen, Northfield Grass Hay May 5 Border Riders 4-H Club’s Open House – Mount Denson 1st – Dykene Farm, Don Wilson, Falmouth Community Hall, 2–4 p.m. 2nd – Lellavan Farm, McLellan’s, Noel May 20 Food & Sewing Workshop – Lawrencetown Exhibition Legume Hay 1st – Bovidae Farm, Wilson’s Falmouth Grounds. Food Workshop – 9 a.m.– 12 noon; Sewing Workshop 2nd – Dykene Farm, Don Wilson, – 1-4 p.m. Contact 4-H office to register. Falmouth May 25 Rawdon 2-Way 4-H Club 30 Year Reunion – Kennetcook Fire Hall, 1-7 p.m. The overall top exhibit was the corn silage entry of Bovidae Farm, Bob June 4 Hants Co. Judging Day – Windsor Exhibition Grounds Wilson and family, of Falmouth. June 6 Kings Co. Judging Day – Sheffield Mills Those attending also judged the June 26 Border Riders Achievement Day exhibits and this year Beth Taylor and June 27 Burlington Workers Achievement Day Howard Harvey tied for top spot. Thanks to the Hants Co. Federation of Agriculture for putting together the competition as part of the Annual Forage Day Program. 10 Bill MacLeod Regional News ~ Cape Breton Agricultural Resource Coordinator

Pasture Co-Op Planning Big Year Employment

The Cape Mabou Pasture Co-Op is once again planning for a busy pasture Opportunities season. After assuming the operation of the pasture from the Nova Scotia Both the Cape Mabou Pasture Co- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, last year, the directors of the Co-Op Op and the Inverness/Victoria have worked diligently to ensure its success. During 2001 there were 297 Federation of Agriculture are head of cattle on the pasture from June 12 to October 17. The cattle came off anticipating receiving funding to hire in very good condition and had an average daily gain for the group of 2.34 workers this summer. An lbs. per day. To make the pasture a sustainable operation the number of cattle Agriculture background would be have to be increased. To date, the response for the coming season has been preferred for both with cattle excellent with a number of new patrons already confirmed. For anyone handling experience essential for the thinking of sending their cattle to the Cape, some of the benefits include daily Co-Op position. If you or someone supervision, very good gains, breeding services, and reduced pressure on your you know would like to get the jump home pastures. on a summer job you can send your resume in advance to either: Following the Co-Op’s first annual meeting on April 8, 2002, the directors Cape Mabou Pasture Co-Op will be finalizing the pasture regulations. Applications will be sent to all P.O. Box 70 previous patrons and to the pasture members. Anyone interested in receiving Mabou, NS B0E 1X0 either a membership application (a one-time $25 fee) or an application to OR send cattle to the pasture can do so by calling Georgina MacKenzie, Inverness/Victoria Federation of 902-622-2552 or the Agriculture office in Mabou, 902-945-2999. Agriculture P.O. Box 22 Mabou, NS B0E 1X0 Events April 20 Cape Breton Island Regional Rally – Baddeck Academy April 20 Cape Breton Island 4-H Craft Co-op Workshop – 4-H News North Sydney Exhibition Grounds Richmond County 4-H Show June 1 Richmond County 4-H Show – Camp Rankin Richmond County 4-Hers will be exhibiting their project work and June 1 Kids and Safety Day Camp – Brook Village Hall competition skills at their county 4-H show on June 1 at Camp Rankin. The event will highlight the county’s Farm Safety Day non livestock and homemaking projects. The event will be run The Inverness/Victoria Federation of Agriculture will be sponsoring a Farm throughout the morning with Safety Day on June 1. The program will take place at the Brook Village Hall vegetable preparation, woodworking from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The program is being offered to youth between the and craft competitions, the Bakeoff, ages of eight to twelve. The day will focus on what to do if you are lost in displays and awards. the woods, the 911 system and first responders, small and large farm equipment safety, and fire safety and use of fire extinguishers. Registration information is available by contacting the agriculture office in Mabou. The Craft Co-Op deadline for registering is May 15, 2002. Workshop Senior 4-H members and leaders from across Cape Breton Island will Strawberry Workshop participate in a spring craft workshop Strawberry producers should mark April 24 on their calendars for a workshop on April 27, at the exhibition grounds with specialists from the Agricultural Development Institute (ADI). The in North Sydney. Workshops include workshop runs from 1– 4:30 p.m. at the Nova Scotia Department of Quilted Table Runners, Stenciled Agriculture and Fisheries (NSDAF) office in Pt. Edward. For more Floor Mats, and Paper Tole.

information contact John Lewis at ADI, 902-896-2345 or the NSDAF office, For more information contact the 902-563-2000. 4-H office in Pt Edward. 10 East Hants, Cumberland, Colchester and Halifax Counties Arthur Pick Regional News ~ Agricultural Resource Coordinator

Spring time has arrived and the busy time on most farms is here. We would encourage all to take those few extra minutes to check safety items before beginning your work. For machinery that will be traveling on the road, make Auction sure slow moving vehicle signs are in place and use flashing lights when Preparations are well underway for possible to alert those on the roadways with you. Be very careful when you the Colchester County Scholarship have larger and very wide pieces of equipment on the highway as they are auction fund raiser. In the past two difficult to handle on some of the narrow roads. years this event has increased the revenue generated. The County If it’s a long day, take a break from time to time just to keep yourself alert on would like to continue this trend at the job. Please discourage children who want to ride with you on the tractor the April 27 auction. Please come as there is no seat for them. Please work safely for your family’s benefit. out and show your support at the 2002 auction. Saturday, April 27, 12:30 p.m. at the Bible Hill Junior High School. Events April 20 Central Regional Rally – Valley Elementary School, 9 a.m. 2002 Central Region April 27 Colchester Scholarship Auction – Bible Hill Junior High, 12:30 p.m. 4-H Summer May 4 Multi Region Workshop – Pictou & Antigonish, 10 a.m. Assistant May 6 Colchester Exhibition Committee meeting – Farm Loan Board Room, 7:30 p.m. This year’s summer assistant is Eleanor Gillis, a third-year NSAC May 7 Cumberland Co. Council – Shinimicas 8 p.m. student taking the Agriculture May 13 Halifax E. Hants Council – 7:30 p.m. Environmental Studies Degree. Cooks Brook Eleanor was a 4-H member in May 23 Cumberland Judging Competition – in the evening Nappan Inverness County, held executive Research Center positions and participated in a May 25 Halifax E. Hants Dairy Workshop – Musquodoboit Exhibition national exchange. She brings with Grounds her strong skills and abilities needed to fulfill the role of the summer May 27 Halifax E. Hants Judging Competition – Musquodoboit assistant position. I know all 4-H Exhibition Grounds leaders and members will appreciate May 29 Colchester Judging competition – Exhibition Grounds, Truro working with her this summer. June 7 Colchester Co. 4-H Dance – Old Barns School, 8 – 11 p.m.

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