Table of Contents

Printed Acrobat Reader Page #’s Page # Main Newsletter (for all regions) Greetings from the Minister of Agriculture 1 2 John MacDonell, Minister of Agriculture 1 2 Government Invests in Agriculture Industry 1 2 Laurence Nason, Executive Assistant for Minister of Agriculture 2 3 AgriStability and AgriInvest Update 3 4 Programs Update 3 4 Production Insurance 4 5 Restricted Licenses Farm Tractor, Trailers 4 5 All Atlantic Jersey Show 4 5 Valley Sunset Gives Strawberry Lovers More to Cheer About 5 6 Work Towards Implementation of Competitive Transition Underway 5 6 Open Farm Day in Nova Scotia 6 7 4-H News 7 8

Custom Newsletter Pages (for individual regions) West Hants, Kings, Lunenburg and Queens counties 9 10 East Hants, Cumberland, Colchester and Halifax counties 9 12 Cape Breton, Victoria, Inverness and Richmond counties 9 14 Pictou, Antigonish, Inverness and Guysborough counties 9 21 August 2009 Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture Volume 10 No. 3

Greetings from the Minister of Agriculture Government Invests in Nova Scotia This is a busy Along with my staff in the Department and exciting of Agriculture, I will be actively Agriculture Industry time for me and working with producers across the every member province and with the federal Innovation Fund of Nova government to deal with issues and Scotia’s new explore opportunities within Nova The Innovation Fund is a new government Scotia’s vital agriculture industry. program that supports and promotes team. We are a marketoriented, consumer-driven honoured by Our government’s priorities are to agriculture industry by investing in the confidence ensure that agriculture in this province initiatives that will improve the that Nova contributes to long-term prosperity competitiveness and profitability of Scotians have and growth, and to make sure that this Nova Scotia's agriculture, agri-food expressed in us, and are eagerly growth is used to secure a bright future and agri-based product sector. The working to fulfil the promises we for all Nova Scotians. objectives of the Fund for 2009- have made. We have new, fresh ideas 2010 are to: On behalf of the new Government of on how to make our province an even • support the development and Nova Scotia, have a safe and better place to live, work, do business adaptation of new and leading wonderful summer. and raise a family. We want to support agricultural technologies; Nova Scotia families, create more jobs and fuel economic growth, and Yours truly, • improve on-farm and post-farm continue to build pride in this John MacDonell profitability and competitiveness; Minister of Agriculture province. • accelerate the pace of innovation, and advance the commercialization and adoption of agri-based John MacDonell, Minister of Agriculture technologies, products and processes; and On March 24, 1998, voters in Hants addition to teaching, John and his • increase industry's ability to East first elected John MacDonell to family operate the MacDonell family anticipate, identify, develop and the Legislature. He was re-elected in farm, keeping a small flock of sheep, a capture new market opportunities. 1999, 2003, 2006 and again in 2009. team of Canadian horse, numerous In June 2009, he was sworn in as waterfowl and Giant Canadian Geese. Minister of Agriculture and Minister Three categories are available under the Innovation Fund as part of the of Natural Resources. He is a member of the Nova Scotia Canada-Nova Scotia Bilateral Federation of Agriculture and other Agreement under Growing Forward, John was raised in Enfield, Hants livestock associations. John was the the new policy framework for County on the farm that has been in first president of the first agriculture. the family since 1877. He was NDP riding association and has been educated at Acadia University where involved in the New Democratic Party he earned his B.Sc., and at St. Mary's for about 14 years. He is married to ...continued on next page University where he earned his B.Ed. Leslie Mackie and they have four children, Edward, Lydia, Hillary and John taught science at Hants East Kelton. Rural High School for 15 years. In

1 The agreement is cost-shared 60:40 This category provides support to Through the partnership with between the federal and provincial advance a technology that is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada governments. Under the Growing approaching market readiness, as well and the funding for programming Forward bilateral agreement, the as for pre-research activities to under Growing Forward, the Nova federal government will contribute investigate and develop potential new Scotia Department of Agriculture is $14.74 million over the next five innovations (e.g., products, positioned to provide assistance in years toward non-business risk processing, etc.), markets, and support of a profitable and management programming in the business opportunities. competitive agriculture industry. Province of Nova Scotia. Program guidelines and application Through the Innovation Fund forms are available from NSDA’s The Innovation Fund Category A: Category C: Supporting the Programs and Business Risk Technology Development 2000 Innovation Capacity of Farmers, Management web site at supports technological research funding is available to assist farmers, www.gov.ns.ca/agri/prm/programs/I opportunities identified by the groups of farmers and commodity nnovation.shtml agriculture and agri-food industry. In associations to support investments in addition, this category aims to the development or adaptation of For more information please contact: increase industry's awareness of the technical innovations in primary value of research and encourage agriculture, which contribute to on- Programs and Business Risk industry's participation in support of farm profitability and Management research. competitiveness. Critical to the PO Box 550, Truro effectiveness of this category will be 176 College Road The Innovation Fund Category B: the dissemination of knowledge Nova Scotia B2N 5E3 Innovation and Commercialization of gained through these projects. Under New Opportunities for Agri-Based this initiative, emphasis will be placed Phone: (902) 893 6510 Products supports unique, emerging on smallerscale projects not funded Toll free: 1 866 844 4276 opportunities that are innovative, through existing programming. Fax: 902 893 7579 timely, have a strong potential for Email: [email protected] commercialization and that will be of www.gov.ns.ca/agri/prm substantial benefit to Nova Scotia's agriculture, agri-food or agri-based products sector.

Laurence Nason – Executive Assistant for Minister of Agriculture

Laurence Nason is Agriculture Minister John Laurence has an extensive background and broad MacDonell’s new Executive Assistant. Laurence is likely qualifications, having experience in both the agriculture familiar to many in Nova Scotia’s agriculture industry, and forestry sectors, as well as having participated at the particularly in his role as Chief Executive Officer of the local government level on municipal council and the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture, where he was school board. He also served in different capacities on a employed from 1995 to 2009. For many years, Laurence number of boards and committees. owned and operated a successful Nova Scotia farming operation in Upper Stewiacke, called Pembrook Farms. We are pleased to welcome Laurence to the Department of Agriculture.

2 AgriStability and Programs Update AgriInvest Update The Farm Investment Fund (FIF) For project work approved for the AgriStability 2010 Enrolment is still accepting applications, with 2008-09 program year, please note the Producers who did not participate in over 475 received to date. There is still deadline to claim your orchard/vine 2009 AgriStability and wish to time to apply for projects that you removal project may be approaching. participate in 2010 must request a wish to undertake this fall. You are The claim must be received by the New Participant package before April encouraged to claim projects as they Programs and Business Risk 30, 2010. To request an AgriStability are completed, which may help you Management (PBRM) office by the New Participant Package or for more manage cash flow for multiple date indicated in condition 11 of your information, visit the AgriStability approved projects. There is no limit to Letter of Agreement (LOA). The date website at the amount of claims you may submit. stated in your LOA is one year from www.agr.gc.ca/AgriStability or call the date of your first pre-inspection. AgriStability toll free at 1-866-367- The Agri-Food Industry 8506. Development Fund (AFIDF) Once the plant material (including program is currently open, with 80 stumps and roots) has been removed AgriStability 2009 Interim applications to date. These include from the site and destroyed, a claim Applications Are Available applications to the Strategic can be submitted and post-inspection The Interim Application is available Infrastructure Investment Fund (SIIF) will follow. A producer can claim for producers who would like to apply and the Direct Marketing Community individual blocks as they are for an advance for the 2009 program Development Trust (DMCDT) completed. Multiple claims are year. As a program participant, you categories. The deadline for these two convenient and aid in cash flow. cannot receive your full 2009 categories has passed and AgriStability payment until your 2009 applications will be reviewed by the The guidelines and application forms program year is complete. By using committee in late summer. for the Farm Investment Fund, Agri- the Interim Application, you can Applications are still being accepted Food Industry Development Fund, estimate your 2009 income and for AFIDF program, categories A and the Orchard and Vineyard expenses and receive a portion of this through E. Transition program may be accessed payment early. The deadline to apply at the following website: for the interim is March 31, 2010. To www.gov.ns.ca/agri/prm. request an interim package, please Questions? Contact Programs & contact AgriStability at 1-866-367- Orchard and Vineyard Transition Business Risk Management (PBRM) 8506 or visit the website at Program (OVTP) office at (902) 893-6510 or toll free 1- www.agr.gc.ca/AgriStability. Applications are being accepted for 866-844-4276. the 2009-10 program year. Currently, AgriInvest and AgriStability funding for the OVTP program is Deadline Reminder for 2008 fully committed. However, AAFC provides a free email September 30, 2009 is the deadline to applications are being held in service that allows you to remain submit AgriInvest and/or sequence based on the date they were up-to-date on important AgriStability application(s) for the received. Letters of Agreement agriculture and agri-food news 2008 program year. Forms and guides (LOA) for orchard/vine removal will and information. To subscribe, are available from the Canada be awarded as funding becomes all you need is a valid email Revenue Agency or on the available. For the 2009-10 program address. Go to Email AgriStability and AgriInvest web sites year, an application must be received Subscription on the AAFC at: and an onsite preinspection must be website at www.agr.gc.ca. www.agr.gc.ca/AgriStability or conducted before work begins. www.agr.gc.ca/AgriInvest.

For more information on any of the above programs, contact Steven Tattrie, Programs and Business Risk Management (NSDA) at (902) 893- 6374 or toll free 1-866-844-4276.

3 Production Insurance

Application Deadlines Cancellation Deadlines For further information on these or any of our other insurance plans, Winter Grain - August 31 Blueberry - November 30 please call Kentville Blueberries - November 30 Tree Insurance - November 14 (902) 679-6028/6015 or Truro Strawberries - November 14 Winter Grain - September 15 1-800-565-637. Forage Establishment - October 15 Tree Fruit - November 30 Tree Fruit - November 30 Strawberry - September 15

The application deadline is fast approaching for Winter Grain - Restricted Licenses August 31! The deadline for planting is Farm Tractor/Trailers Over 14,000 kg September 30 in Annapolis, Kings and Class 3F/Condition 23 counties, and September 20, for all other areas. The Department of Motor Vehicles 6) The applicant takes the approved The deadline to apply for Forage (DMV) has expanded the restriction application, condition sheet and a Establishment is October 31. Fields to include all farm tractors/trailer completed medical report to their of legumes and legumegrass mixes combination over 14, 000 kg. The nearest DMV office, and pays seeded by July 1, as well as grass farmer can also fax the form directly $21.09 to upgrade to a class 3 seeded by September 1 are eligible for to the DMV. license. coverage. The process is: If you have any questions/concerns please contact your nearest DMV 1) Applicant obtains the application office or the NS Federation of form from the Nova Scotia Agriculture. Cancelling Crop Federation of Agriculture or the Department of Motor Vehicles. Insurance A farmer or employee must carry the 2) The applicant completes the form condition letter with them at all times in Most Crop Insurance contracts are and/or has their employer sign the order to operate legally. continuous. This means they do not certification. terminate at the end of the cropping This process will be effective until 3) The signed application is faxed to season (unless a producer requests September 1, 2009. cancellation in writing by the deadline (902) 424-0772 for approval. date). 4) Once approved, as indicated by an The benefit of this approach is that RMV(Registrar of Motor you as a client do not risk the chance of Vehicles) signature in Section 5 of All Atlantic Jersey Show not being able to insure your crop for the form, a Condition 23 is added the entire cropping season if for some to the client’s record: “Valid for Jersey Atlantic is putting on an “All reason you do not make an application farm tractor and trailer Atlantic Jersey show” in conjunction by the required date. At the same time, combinations over 14000 kg, with the All Atlantic Dairy Classic in if you do not cancel by the including trailers over 4500 kg, Truro. The jersey show will be held on cancellation deadline, you will be and class 5 vehicles. Not valid for October 16th starting at 10:00 a.m. expected to insure your crop during truck and trailer or the current crop year. truck/tractor/trailer combinations The judge will be Mr. Dean Sayles of over 14000 kg. Spruce Avenue Jerseys of Paris Please note the following deadlines: Ontario. Mr. Sayles is also the 5) The signed approval is then faxed president of Jersey Canada. For further or mailed back to the applicant information people may contact the (mailed if no return fax number is show chairman Reg Dillman at supplied) along with the condition (902)384-2369 or email at sheet. [email protected] or Dave Cole at (902) 384-2403 or email [email protected] 4 Valley Sunset Gives Strawberry Lovers More to Cheer About

A new strawberry variety released by Atlantic Canada, and $60 million for • It takes about eight years to develop Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada growers across the country. Valley a new strawberry variety. Dr. will extend the strawberry picking Sunset also ripens at a time when Jamieson and his team have season and give fans more to sink their other varieties of berries in the field developed 8 strawberry varieties teeth into. Valley Sunset is the latest are getting smaller as their season since 1983. strawberry variety from Dr. Andrew draws to a close. • Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Jamieson, a fruit breeder at the • Agriculture and Agri-food Canada keeps over 1,500 distinct genetic Atlantic Food and Horticulture conducts strawberry research at types of strawberries at its Research Centre in Kentville, Nova three research centres: Canadian Clonal Genebank in Scotia. Valley Sunset is a sweet, late- Kentville, N.S.; Saint-Jean-sur- Harrow, Ontario. season berry the size of a medium egg. Richilieu, Que.; and Agassiz, B.C. It grows until the third and fourth Strawberry varieties developed at For more information, contact Dr. weeks of July, depending on the these three centres account for over Andrew Jamieson, Atlantic Food and weather and the region. It gives 80 per cent of the strawberries Horticulture Research Centre, growers at least another week of fresh grown in Canada. Kentville, Nova Scotia berries in a marketplace that generates (902) 679-5705. $10 million annually for growers in

Work Towards Implementation of Competitive Transition is Underway

The Deputy Minister of Agriculture, services, as well as develop stakeholders such as other Dr. Paul LaFleche, struck a recommendations for the alignment of government departments and cooperative working group of the current and future NSDA programs agencies will be held until mid- Nova Scotia Department of and services. October. Agriculture (NSDA) and the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture Throughout the summer, CTAG has The committee will report to both the (NSFA) in April 2009. This been holding consultative workshops NSDA and NSFA Executive and committee, known as the Competitive across the province with industry provide the NSFA membership with Transition Analysis Group (CTAG), is stakeholders to assess industry needs an update on the progress of the composed of Gerald Post, Director of and identify gaps in programs and committee’s activities at the NSFA Innovation and Competitive services. Workshop participants were Council of Leaders meeting in Transition , Jill Rogers, Senior asked to identify what barriers need to September 2009 and the NSFA’s Program Analyst of NSDA, Henry be removed to enable competitiveness annual general meeting in November Vissers, Executive Director and Beth in the agriculture/agri-food sector, 2009. Feedback on draft Densmore, 1st Vice President of what resources are needed by the recommendations for the realignment NSFA. agriculture/agri-food sector to of government resources, programs compete in the market both now and in and services will be solicited prior to CTAG’s mandate is to review, identify the future, and what the greatest the presentation of the final and categorize the programs and opportunities are in agriculture, agri- recommendations to the NSFA and services offered by NSDA and other food and agribased products. NSDA Executives. government departments and agencies in support of the three Workshops have been held for various Those interested in participating in a economic principles of Competitive commodities, county federations of workshop or submitting written Transition: (i) transitional support, (ii) agriculture, farmers, agri-businesses, suggestions on enabling strategic public investment, and (iii) farmers’ markets, staff of the Nova competitiveness in the public goods and services. The Scotia Agricultural College and agriculture/agri-food industries can committee will assess needs and AgraPoint. Consultative workshops contact Gerald Post at identify gaps in programs and with industry and broader [email protected]

5 Open Farm Day in Nova Scotia

This year the public will have a Watch for media coverage on ATVs The Nova Scotia Agricultural chance to win a prize package filled Live at Five and in the Chronicle Awareness Committee is pleased to with items meant to remind them to Herald on Friday, Sept. 18. announce the eighth annual Open look for Nova Scotia products in the Farm Day in Nova Scotia on Sept 20, stores. We would like to thank the event 2009. sponsors - Sobeys, Agriculture & We are always looking for more farms Agri-Food Canada and the Nova Open Farm Day is an Atlantic wide to participate. Why do it? It provides Scotia Department of Agriculture, and event which has grown since its an opportunity to do your part in especially the farmers and their beginning in 2001. In Nova Scotia, 52 supporting the ground swell of buy families who are so generous with farms are on board this year, the most local interest from the public. It opens their time and energy for this event. of any of the Atlantic provinces. your farm gate to your community Public attendance at the event and beyond and helps build support continues to grow. for agriculture in Nova Scotia. Farmers tell us that, although it takes The variety of farms participating in some extra work in preparation, it the program is what gives Open Farm turns out to be a very rewarding day Day its broad appeal. The public can for all. choose the type of farm they want to learn about farm livestock and To check out the list of participating horticulture, conventional and farms, go to Agricultural Awareness organic, traditional and non- Website www.gov.ns.ca/agri/agaware www.gov.ns.ca/agri/agaware traditional! and follow the link to Open Farm Day.

Your Agricultural Resource Coordinators

Acting Senior Agricultural Resource East Hants, Cumberland, Colchester Cape Breton, Victoria, Inverness & Coordinator: & Halifax counties: Richmond counties: Arthur Pick – Truro Michael Kittilsen – Gary Koziel – Tel: (902) 893-6587 Tel: (902) 893-3645 Tel: (902) 563-2000 Fax: (902) 893-2757 Fax: (902) 893-0244 Fax: (902) 563-3435 [email protected] [email protected] West Hants, Kings, Lunenburg & Queens counties: Pictou, Antigonish & Guysborough Annapolis, Digby, Yarmouth & Brian MacCulloch – counties: Shelburne counties: Tel: (902) 679-6006 Kevin Bekkers – Dennis Moerman – Fax: (902) 679-6062 Tel: (902) 863-4705 Tel: (902) 837-5161 [email protected] Fax: (902) 863-7342 Fax: (902) 837-7696 [email protected] [email protected]

6 a smile, a hug, a song, and of course, a George MacNeil joke. Bridgewater to Host Scholarship 32nd Annual Nova To honour his legacy, the George Established for Nova MacNeil Memorial Scholarship has Scotia 4-H Show Scotia 4-H Members been established for a Nova Scotia 4- H member to further their post At this time of year 4-H members are busy attending exhibitions with their This past spring, the Nova Scotia 4-H secondary education. A scholarship committee has been established to 4-H projects and making preparations community mourned the loss of a for the 32nd Nova Scotia 4-H Show, beloved 4-H leader. George MacNeil raise enough money in the next five years to activate the scholarship. In an October 2 - 4, 2009. Hosted this year died tragically as a result of a motor at the South Shore Exhibition vehicle accident on June 19th. effort to achieve their goal, the George 500 Club was established where an Grounds in Bridgewater, this annual individual or business can make a event is an excellent opportunity for George began his 4-H career as a 4-H families and the public to view member, and when he turned 21, he substantive contribution to the scholarship fund and is able to the many talents of 4-H members continued his involvement as a 4-H across the province. leader. As a 4-H leader, he taught contribute up to five years in which to honor a $500 pledge. All donations, projects, served as president of the Nova Scotia has the largest 4-H Show Cape Breton County 4-H Leaders are welcome and they are tax deductible. Donations can be made in Canada. All the exhibitors are 4-H Council and the Nova Scotia 4-H members from 9 -21 years of age. Leaders Council. He chaired to the “George MacNeil 4-H Scholarship Fund”, c/o Barb Each year a county or region hosts the Provincial Show Committees, 4-H Show. This year the Lunenburg attended the National Volunteers MacKinnon, Steel Centre Credit Union Ltd, located at 340 Prince County 4-H Council has the Leaders Conference, participated in responsibility of making site Canadian 4-H Council meetings, and Street, Sydney, Nova Scotia B1P 5K9 arrangements, providing security, traveled to the Czech Republic as part fund raising and promotion. of a Nova Scotia 4-H delegation. His Besides the scholarship, George’s involvement in 4-H encompassed all “This show has grown into a facets - much like his involvement in legacy will continue through the hundreds of young people whose lives showcase of over 40 different the community. He was a dedicated livestock and life skills projects, such volunteer to the local and provincial he touched during his years as a 4-H leader. He inspired them to think as crafts, dog obedience, outdoors, federations of agriculture, the fire goat, heritage, dairy and beef calf. department, Kinsman Club and more. positive, to have fun, and to do their best. He provided them with skill; but Every young person that joins 4-H can He was Manager of the Cape Breton find something he or she is interested Exhibition for 15 years and was an more importantly he allowed them to witness, through his own efforts, what in and enjoys doing,” said Arthur exhibitor there for 60 years. His Pick, Acting Manager, 4-H and Rural undertakings were many, but it will be one man can do to make a difference. He lived his life, day in and out by the Organizations. “4-H is really a step to his enthusiasm, dedication and the future for many young people.” genuine interest in the people he met 4-H pledge. Using his head, heart, that he will be remembered for. hands and health, George instilled a sense of community, loyalty, and The Nova Scotia 4-H Show is open to the public and admission is free. George will be remembered as the service to others. More importantly, he encouraged and inspired each of us Competitions begin Friday, October 2 kind of man who entered a room not and end on Sunday, October 4. knowing people, but never left to do the same. without meeting them. He was the kind of man who took the time to talk, to listen, to lend a hand, and to make someone’s day special. He always had

7 2. Changes I would make as the Hants and Kings Counties: Young Speakers For federal Minister of Agriculture for Beth Trueman - Kentville Agriculture a day. Tel: (902) 679-6027 Fax: (902) 679-6062 Competition 3. How Canadian agriculture is being [email protected] affected by the global economic 4-H members who are interested in downturn. Halifax-East Hants, Colchester challenging their public speaking and Cumberland Counties: abilities and want to discuss their 4. Why I want to make my career in Jacqueline Hoyt - Truro enthusiasm for the agriculture agriculture. Tel: (902) 893-6586 industry are encouraged to enter the Fax: (902) 893-2757 Nova Scotia Young Speakers for 5. Farming the future: Taking [email protected] Agriculture Competition. All senior agriculture into the 21st century. 4-H members and 4-H Alumni, who Pictou, Antigonish and are 16 - 24 years of age as of the 4-H members are taught public Guysborough Counties: competition date, can enter this speaking skills during the year, along Melissa Fulton- Pictou/Antigonish competition on Friday, October 2, with their project work and each Tel: (902) 485-7161/ (902) 863-7501 2009, at 7 p.m. during the Nova Scotia spring 4-H clubs, counties and regions Fax: (902) 485-4014/ (902) 4-H Show at the South Shore hold communications competitions. 863-7342 Exhibition Grounds in Bridgewater. Many young people often identify the communications training and the Inverness, Victoria, Cape Breton The Nova Scotia 4-H member that confidence that it has given them as and Richmond Counties: wins the provincial contest will be their most memorable experience in Rhonda MacDougall -Mabou sponsored by the Nova Scotia 4-H 4-H. Tel: (902) 945-2901 Council to participate in the Canadian Fax: (902) 945-2858 Young Speakers of Agriculture For more information please contact [email protected] National Senior Public Speaking the nearest 4-H office or check out the Competition at the Royal Agricultural website www.cysa-joca.ca. Marina Gillis - Sydney Winter Fair in Toronto, Ontario on Tel: (902) 563-2001 Saturday, November 8, 2009. Fax: (902) 563-3435 Your 4-H and Rural [email protected] The rules are the same as those for the Organizations Staff Royal competition. Each contestant Provincial Agricultural Awareness will give a five to seven minute Senior 4-H Program Coordinator Coordinator prepared speech on a selected topic, as Ruth Grant - Truro Judy Grant – Truro well as introduce and thank another Tel: (902) 893-6584 Tel: (902) 893-6598 speaker. Contestants may choose to Fax: (902) 893-2757 Fax: (902) 893-2757 use a flip chart or, appropriate posters [email protected] [email protected] to illustrate their talk. Slides, films, videos or overhead projectors will not 4-H Specialists Communications and Resource be allowed. A complete set of rules, as Yarmouth, Digby and Annapolis Coordinator well as the scoresheet, will be sent to Counties: Cheryl Chandler - Mabou all applicants prior to the Nova Scotia Jean Ward - Lawrencetown Tel: (902) 945-2902 competition. Tel: (902) 584-2081/ (902) 584-2080 Fax: (902) 945-2858 Fax: (902) 584-3069 [email protected] The competitors have five [email protected] agriculturally related topics from which they can choose to speak: Lunenburg, Queens and Shelburne Counties: 1. Behind the scenes: The unsung Valorie Oickle - Bridgewater heros of Canadian agriculture. Tel: (902) 543-0616 Fax: (902) 543-0618 [email protected]

8

West Hants, Kings, Lunenburg, and Brian MacCulloch Regional News ~ Queens Counties – Valley Region Agricultural Resource Coordinator

include tug-of-war, a fashion show, Annapolis County Hants County market lamb, market steer and market Federation Livestock Exhibition 4-H Days, turkey auctions, the Grand Champion Showmanship Class and the Parade of Sales Hants County Champions. Cattle sales at the Lawrencetown Exhibition Grounds Exhibition Grounds will be starting in September 18 - Interested In September. The dates for sales for the September 19 Joining 4-H? remainder of the year are: Sept. 12 and 26, Oct. 10 and 24, Nov. 7 and 21. As the summer comes to a close, the Selling of miscellaneous items will Hants County Exhibition preparation is well underway. All life skills end of another 4-H year draws near. begin at 11 a.m. Selling of livestock For people interested in joining 4-H begins at 1 p.m. articles will be judged Thursday and will be on display all week. The this year, now is the time to get ready. evening of Friday, September 18 the With the variety of projects offered in dog and draft horse classes will be 4-H there is definitely something for Local Community held. On Saturday, September 19, everyone! If anyone is interested in Fairs and beef, dairy, goat, light horse, finding out more about the 4-H waterfowl and poultry classes will be program, give the 4-H office a call at Exhibitions taking place along with a variety of (902) 679-6027 and they will be more competitions. On Sunday, September than happy to give some helpful Don’t forgot about the local 20, sheep, light horse and the Grand information. community fairs and exhibitions Champion Livestock Showmanship being held in our region: class will be happening. Different competitions, including the bake-off, New Ross Community Fair - August vegetable preparation, woodworking, 21-22 floral arranging, outdoorsman, photography, cake decorating, fashion Dalhousie Community Fair - August show beef, dairy and sheep clipping, 29 will be happening throughout the weekend. Western Kings Fair, Tremont - September 5 Provincial Show Hants Co. Exhibition, Windsor - October 2 - October 4 September 18-20 and September 25- 27 The 4-H Provincial Show is a great event to attend and to see what 4-H is Queens Co. Exhibition, Caledonia - all about. It will be taking place Sept. 15-19 October 2 - October 4, at the South Shore Exhibition Grounds in NS 4-H Show, Bridgewater - October Bridgewater. The show displays the 2-4 top projects, articles, and livestock from each county in Nova Scotia. Some of the highlights of the weekend

9 Valley Region 4-H Activities

Date Event Location August 23 Valley Region Senior Tour August 25 Kings County Provincial Show Meeting, 7 p.m. Kentville Agricultural Centre August 31 Kings County Joint Achievement Day Wrap Up 6:30 p.m. Kentville Agricultural Centre August 31 Kings County Council Meeting for September 7:30 p.m. Kentville Agricultural Centre September 14 Hants County Council Meeting 7 p.m. O’Brien Building Windsor September 18-20 Hants County 4-H Exhibition Days Hants County Exhibition Grounds October 2 - 4 Provincial 4-H Show South Shore Exhibition Grounds

10

Colchester, Cumberland, East Hants, and Michael Kittilsen Regional News ~ Halifax Regional Municipality Agricultural Resource Coordinator

Tractor Safety Upcoming 4-H Exhibition Schedule

Certification Meetings Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition, Truro, August 25 - 29 The Nova Scotia Tractor Safety Colchester County 4-H Leaders Certification Program will be held in Council Meetings: Cumberland County Exhibition, Truro at NSAC on August 26 and 27. Oxford, September 1-5 Sept. 21, Oct. 26, at the Farm Loan This course is targeted, but not limited boardroom NSAC campus at 7 p.m. Eastern Nova Scotia Exhibition, to, youth aged 14-16. Topics such as Antigonish, September 9-12 safety, highway regulations, pre- Colchester County Exhibition operation checks, safe starts and Committee Meetings: Pictou/North Colchester Exhibition, stops, connecting and hauling various Pictou, September 9-12 implements will be covered. September 12, at the Farm Loan boardroom, NSAC campus at 7:30 Hants County Exhibition, Windsor, Any current tractor operator who p.m. September 18-20 and 25-27 holds a class 8 license or higher, and has at least 10 hours tractor driving Colchester County Provincial Show Nova Scotia 4-H Show, Bridgewater, experience is welcome to attend. At Preparation Meeting for Parents and October 2-4 the end of the course, written and Members: driving skills tests will be completed. Maritime Fall Fair, Halifax, October September 13 at 4 p.m. at the 4-H 9-18 8-12 Participants who obtain 70 per cent on barn, NSPE grounds both the written and skills test will receive a certificate of achievement Cumberland County 4-H Leaders from NSAC and are eligible to get a Council and Exhibition Committee condition 15 endorsement on their meetings: license. Sept. 1 and Oct. 6, at the Shinimicas A special thanks to the Nova Scotia Fire Hall at 8 p.m. Farm Health and Safety Committee for partially covering tuition costs for Halifax County 4-H Leaders Council the Tractor Safety Training Program! Meetings: Sept. 8, at the Forestry Keep your eyes open for more Complex, Middle Musquodoboit at 7 information on the Tractor p.m. Certification course. For further information on any of For more information visit: these events or the 4-H program, http://nsac.ca/cde or call (902) 893- please contact: 6667 Jacqueline Hoyt, at (902) 893-6586 or [email protected], 4-H Specialist for Central Region

9 Halifax- East Hants News

Hello everyone, hope you all are having a productive summer in between the bouts of clouds and rain! Maybe, in fact, finding some time for a little rest and relaxation perhaps?

Just a reminder to those who have used the HEHFA rental equipment (land levelers, cow lift and lime spreader) that the fees and contacts for usage of the equipment are as follows:

Equipment Rental Cost Contact Information

Lime Spreader $4.00/ton (member) Allen Benjamin (902) 758-2427 $4.50/ton (non-member) ______

Land Leveler $100.00 (member) Dave Cole (902) 384-2403 $125.00 (non-member) or John van de Riet (902) 758-3874 ______

Cow Lift $ 10.00 initial day Corey Fraser (902) 758-2262 + $5.00 every day after (member) $15.00 initial day $10.00 every day after (non-member)

Fees can be mailed to: Lindsay van de Riet, 234 Mill Village Road, Shubenacadie, B0N 2H0.

The Shu-Mil 4-H club is looking for interested senior members in the REAL SKILLS project. The Real Skills project would allow members to build their portfolio, with such certifications as first aid and food handling, volunteer/ job experience and how to construct a good resume. This would be on a county basis including Riverside, Hardwoodlands and Shu-Mil.

For more information contact your 4-H leader or 4-H Specialist.

Continue to have a safe and happy Summer!

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Cape Breton, Victoria, Inverness Gary Koziel Regional News ~ and Richmond Counties Agricultural Resource Coordinator

2009 CAPE BRETON COMMUNITY FAIRS

FAIR DATE CONTACT PHONE Mira Ferry (Albert Bridge) Sept. 5 Florence Macintyre (902) 562-1056 Gladys Lever (902) 562-6310 Cheryl Macintyre (Chair) (902) 562-2089

Christmas Island Sept. 12 Kevin Mackenzie (902) 622-2667 (C.b. County)

Port Morien Sept. 12 Margie Macqueen (902) 737-2478 (Glace Bay)

Victoria County Sept. 5 Wendell Macphee (902) 295-2494 (Baddeck)

Marion Bridge Cancelled Norma Macinnis (902) 727-2764

Community fairs are excellent opportunities for rural communities to get together for a fun and entertaining day and to show off their talent.

Anyone can enter articles, from homemaking, garden, woodworking to livestock (check with fair for specifics). If you have never been to a fair, plan to attend this year.

Northside Exhibition Survey Reminder

Come visit the 92nd Annual Cape The Cape Breton Partnership is everyone contacted will participate by Breton Exhibition. carrying out a Human Resource completing a survey. If you have any focused study of Cape Breton's questions or concerns please feel August 17 - 22, 105 Regent Street, agriculture industry. The Cape Breton free to contact Suzanne Sawler by North Sydney Come for all the Partnership recognizes the important e-mail at exhibition fun and excitement! role agriculture plays in the economy [email protected] of Cape Breton. The intent of this or by telephone at: (902) 625-0958. Featuring: study will be to identify skills gaps Commercial displays; arts crafts and and potential training opportunities. A Suzanne Sawler home baking exhibits; Livestock and short survey has been prepared and is Special Projects Coordinator horse competitions; Agriculture and currently being distributed to those Cape Breton Partnership forestry displays; full size midway participating in the agriculture (902) 625-0958 with ride for all ages... and many other industry in Cape Breton. We hope that special features and events.

The Cape Breton Exhibition, there’s no place like it. For information call (902) 794-7633.

9 NewPage - Port Marketing 101 – What Wednesday, November 4, 2009 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hawkesbury Every Rural Business Needs to Know: Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre Agricultural Wood Shannon Studio Ash Tour At one time, farmers who mastered 606 Reeves Street production could count on achieving Port Hawkesbury There will be a farm tour at the solid financial results. That’s history. NewPage Pulp and Paper plant in Port Today, with production expertise a Call Catherine Plumridge to register Hawkesbury on Tuesday, September given, those who seek above-average at (902) 563-2000 or e-mail 22, 2009 at 1 p.m. Come and see the results must understand and manage [email protected] entire process of obtaining wood ash other elements of their business for the agriculture program - from the equally well. One of the most hogfuel storage area, through the important of these is marketing. Reminder: system where they burn the hogfuel Restricted Licenses Farm for power to wood ash output and the For many people, the whole notion of Tractor/Trailers Over 14,000 kg new storage and screening area. marketing can be confusing, Class 3F/Condition 23 expires intimidating or downright scary. September 1, 2009. CFBMC aims to demystify Although the use of wood ash on For more information on this or any agricultural land has been used for marketing, providing farmers and rural entrepreneurs with practical registration process, contact the many years in North America and Registry of Motor Vehicles through Europe, these programs have only knowledge they can quickly implement in their own businesses. If Service Nova Scotia and Municipal been implemented in Nova Scotia Relations by phoning the toll-free since May 2007. NewPage has you’re ready to be a better marketer and are looking for a common-sense number in Nova Scotia participated in an agriculture wood 1-800-898-7668 or visit their web site ash program since May, 2008. Wood approach, the marketing workshop is the place for you. In just a single day, at ash increases soil pH and provides http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/rmv/ crop nutrients such as phosphorus, you will learn: potassium, calcium and boron. RMV Locations to Choose From: • the basics of marketing: what it is Please RSVP at the Nova Scotia and why it matters, Sydney - 380 King’s Road, Sydney Department of Agriculture offices by • taking your own pulse: the Wednesday, September 16, Gary marketing self-assessment, Baddeck - Provincial Building, Koziel (902) 563-2000 or Kevin • how to choose and implement Corner of Chebucto, Main and Bekkers (902) 863-4705. You must essential marketing tactics, Campbell Streets, Baddeck sign up as NewPage needs to provide • how other agri-businesses have Port Hawkesbury - 400 Reeves guest passes, hard hats and safety used these techniques to boost Street, Port Hawkesbury glasses before you are permitted on sales and profitability. the tour. Beyond this core curriculum, there is Hours of Operation: If you have any questions, please an opportunity to meet other farmers Monday - Tuesday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 contact Lise LeBlanc or Misty Croney and rural entrepreneurs, share p.m. at (902) 792-2636. experiences and learn together in a Wednesday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. helpful environment. When you head Note - Baddeck is closed at lunch time home, you’ll be better positioned to connect marketing principles to your own situation, and write and manage your own marketing plan.

10 Cape Breton 4-H : Summer Richmond County plays an important role in taking care of the provincial 4-H camp, Camp Rankin and it has been a Newsletter tradition for many years. This county also has two successful 4-H clubs. These clubs are valuable supporters These are exciting times for regional youth as new clubs of their community and 4-H programs. They also have and project areas are explored. 4-H in Cape Breton very helpful parents who contribute as much as they can to represents club and community involvement that evolves 4-H. Richmond County is looking for more volunteers to into a unique 4-H “family”. Being a part of a club allows 4- become leaders. H members and leaders to lend a helping hand when it comes to project work, volunteer experiences, and social County Line - Adrienne Smith events. The 4-H program is full of experiences and Lakeside - Stuwart Carter excitement throughout the year. 4-H Weekend, Provincial Show, and Camp Rankin are just a few opportunities Victoria County has only one club, but they are still going offered to Cape Breton 4-Her’s. Members learn to work strong. This county has a strong involvement with the as a team and independently. With the 4-H motto, “Learn poultry project. In addition to the poultry project, Victoria to do By Doing”, members have the opportunity to grow County also offers many different non-livestock projects. into responsible, mature leaders with valuable life long The Baddeck Valley club hosts the Regional Rally every skills. year and has long term leaders that have provided great support to local youth over the years.

Baddeck Valley - Nelson Peterson 4-H Counties in Cape Breton If you are interested in joining the 4-H program, either as a Region member or as an adult leader, you should contact the regional 4-H Specialist in your area. There may already be an existing club in your community, or perhaps a new Cape Breton County is home to the oldest continuous club club could be started. In any case, the 4-H specialist will be in Canada, the Grand Mira 4-H club. This county offers a able to provide you with the information required to variety of projects, especially homemaking projects. become a member or leader. If you would like to get Additionally, many diverse livestock projects are offered involved with the 4-H program here in Cape Breton please within the county. Cape Breton County is a strong contact the 4-H office; Mabou – Rhonda MacDougall competitor in the speaking and demonstration (902) 945-2901 or Sydney – Marina Gillis (902) 563- competitions, both regionally and provincially. They are 2001. welcome to any new members that would like to join.

Arm of Gold - Carol MacDonald Bayside - Verna Johnson Starting A New Club Grand Mira - Barbara MacKinnon Northside - Ruth Mac Neil New clubs are always being encouraged in the region. Rising Sun - Beverly Kirk Today's 4-H members develop the skills required to become future leaders in their schools, their communities Inverness County has the largest 4-H member enrollment and their workplaces. The 4-H program is open to anyone this year. This county is also home to Cape Breton’s between the ages of 9 and 21 years who would like to biggest club, Port Hood Island View. Known for its become a member. Also, children 7 and 8 years old can strength in livestock projects, this county deals in mainly become Cloverbuds. These members are given the dairy, beef, horse and poultry. opportunity to enjoy and learn about the 4-H program without having to participate in the competition aspect of Scotsville 4-H Lakers - Natasha MacDonald 4-H. For those 21 years of age and older, we encourage Brook Village 4-H Achievers - Mary MacPhee and individuals to become 4-H leaders or club assistants. Janine Wilson Green Point - Darlene Rankin Margaree Riverside - Ruth Ann Hart Port Hood ...continued on next page Island View - Joanne and Ron Schmidt South West Mabou - Carol VanDenHoogen

11 The 4-H program will provide There are also group activities where leadership anddevelopment programs members with many possibilities such members can learn about nature, to Nova Scotia’s rural young people as scholarships, friendships, and life acting, and crafts. Theweek concludes since 1922 when the first 4-H club long skills. If you think that a 4-H club with a banquet and camp award began in Heatherton, Antigonish would be of benefit for kids in your ceremony. Camp Rankin gives 4-H County as a young Boy’s and Girl’s community please call your nearest 4- members a chance to relax, meet new Club. This 4-H club was an Ayrshire H office and they will help you along people, and use teamwork with cabin heifer and swine club comprised of the way. The 4-H Specialist will and group activities. The camps run fourteen members. Since its early discuss the details of the 4-H program through July into August. The first beginnings the 4-H program has with you, determine the extent of four camps are for junior members evolved to offer leadership training, interest, local leadership potential, while the last camp is open to public speaking, technical and life and community needs of the youth, intermediate members. skills to youth from 9-21 years of age. and answer any questions you may have. Aside from the camping experience, We have so much to celebrate! In a there are also job opportunities national survey conducted by the associated with Camp Rankin. Older Canadian 4-H Council and Ispos- 4-H members are encouraged to apply Reid, 4-H Alumni across Canada were Opportunities of a and interview for 7 counselor polled for their attitudes towards the Lifetime positions. If this is your first camp 4-H program and it’s impact on them. experience, applications are also The results strongly indicated that the In addition to taking projects, 4-H taken for unpaid counselor in training 4-H program has helped and members can participate in many (CIT) positions that are one week in continues to help, develop youth other events, such as: length. CIT’s are exposed to the camp across Canada. Seventy eight percent program without the full felt the knowledge and skills gained in Eastern Breeders Showcase - 4-H responsibility of the counselor. 4-H continue to benefit them in their members from Atlantic Canada will adult years. Sixty-nine percent said learn animal management and Nova Scotia 4-H Show - Each fall, parents and families benefit from their preparation practices from some of Nova Scotia 4-H members and leaders children’s membership in 4-H. Show the best people in the industry at the take part in the largest provincial 4-H your support for 4-H families by Eastern Breeders Inc. 4-H Showcase Show in Canada. This is held at wearing green in November. each June in Truro. Eastern Breeders different locations across the Incorporated has sponsored the province. This annual Provincial 4-H 4-H Annual Meeting - This takes training event for several years. Along Show is an opportunity for 4-H place in November each year. Each with financial assistance, it provides members to showcase their project county is able to send two delegates, the Atlantic event with highly achievements to the public. one adult leader and one senior 4-H qualified staff to ensure 4-H members Approximately 2400 youth and 1000 member. It is an excellent opportunity learn the most current techniques in adult leaders attend the show from to be part of the rule making process clipping, showing, and herd across Nova Scotia to compete in a for the Nova Scotia 4-H program and management. variety of livestock, homemaking and to meet other people from across the non-livestock classes for top honours. province. Camp Rankin – Cape Breton region is proud to be home of Nova Scotia’s 4-H Week - Capture the 4-H spirit in summer camp for 4-H members. November as 4-H members, volunteer Camp Rankin has become a very leaders and supporters celebrate popular tradition that is visited every National 4-H Month across Canada. year by many young and old 4-Her’s. The month-long celebration provides There, kids can learn about 4-H and an opportunity to showcase the many have lots of fun. The days are packed benefits of the 4-H program, which with activities such as canoeing, continues to help thousands of youth swimming, hiking, recreation and in Nova Scotia reach their full campfires. potential. 4-H has been bringing

12 4-H Members and Leaders 4-H Weekend – 4-H members Trips and Scholarships - If these aren’t Workshops, Tours and Conferences compete for provincial awards in enough opportunities for you, 4-H - Opportunities for life long learning public speaking and demonstration members can also apply to win trips occurs on many different levels. From competitions at the Provincial 4-H across Canada, the United States and the local, regional, provincial and Weekend at the Nova Scotia the UK. There are several regional levels 4-H members and Agricultural College in Bible Hill scholarships towards education or leaders can participate in a variety of each May. This two-day provincial community development activities skill specific and leadership competition showcases the speaking available to 4-H members 16 years of development workshops and skills of 4-H members who have age and older and in 4-H for at least conferences each year. Meeting already won at the 4-H club, county two years. Check the General Leader people and having fun, while and regional level. Kit for more details about all the developing self confidence and team opportunities! building skills is what it is all about. Contact your 4-H Specialist for details.

New To Cape Breton

REAL SKILLS Project - This Rural Employment and Life Skills Program (REAL SKILLS) is designed to provide members with a wide range of learning opportunities that will enable them to develop a list of completed real skill training. Skills involved with this project consist of CPR and First Aid, WHMIS, OH&S, Food Handlers, and Business Plans (Marketing and More, Leadership, Communication, Team, and Job Shadowing). Members will be required to compile a portfolio which will consist of all material/handouts from information sessions, certificates received in the project and individual session evaluation. Please contact your local 4-H office if this is of interest to your club. National Winners

Congratulations to all of the winners of National Awards. The award ceremony for these took place at 4-H Weekend, along with all of the communication results of 4-H Weekend.

W. Garfield Weston Foundation U.K. Exchange – Amanda Lowe – Inverness County National Members’ Conference – Jarvis Pierrard – Victoria County National 4-H Volunteer Leaders’ Conference – Adrienne Smith – Richmond County – Marion Turner – Cape Breton County

If you would like a chance to participate in one of these events, call your specialist to enquire about application dates and requirements. These awards are very beneficial to all members and are considered a trip of a lifetime.

reminder to general leaders - if you cannot bring your club Provincial Show 2009 projects to the show, please inform the 4-H office in (Bridgewater) September in order to find a substitute or scratch. Life skills projects must be in by no later than 5:30 p.m. on The 4-H Provincial Show is one of Nova Scotia’s biggest Friday the 2nd and the livestock projects must be on the and most exciting events and it is fast approaching. This grounds by 8:30 p.m. on Friday. This weekend will be event is an opportunity for all the 4-H counties in the filled with the project judging, member judging province to showcase their best project work and compete competitions, tug-o-war, a mud stomp dance and livestock for top honours in livestock and life skills project areas. auctions. Remember, the theme for this year is - 4-H 2009 This year the Provincial Show will be held on October 2 - 4 is the year to shine. at the South Shore Exhibition grounds, Bridgewater. A ...continued on next page 13 We encourage counties to celebrate our rich 4-H background with our communities. Come out and see the excitement that 4-H members, leaders and families have to offer.

August 27-29 – Inverness County 4-H showSeptember 12 – Poultry Workshop, Baddeck Forks Hall September 9 – Substitution for Pro-showSeptember 16 – Scratch for Pro Show by noon September 10 – Victoria County project drop off/ competitions September 12 – Victoria County 4-H DayOctober 2-4 – Pro-Show Bridgewater

Please feel free to contact the 4-H office in your counties for upcoming programs or concerns at (902) 563-2001 (Sydney) or (902) 945-2901 (Mabou). 4-H Weekend Winners

Members from all over Cape Breton competed in public speaking events including writing a speech, presenting a demonstration and creating posters. Here are the Cape Breton region winners from 4-H Weekend:

1st Place Junior Freehand Poster Emily VanDenHoogen – Inverness County 3rd Place Junior Computer Poster – Bryan Berk – Victoria County 1st Place Senior Computer Poster– Jarvis Pierrard – Victoria County 1st Place Junior Introducer– Catherine Messum – Cape Breton County 1st Place Junior Speaker – Kendrick Miller – Cape Breton County -(Champion Overall Junior and Intermediate) 2nd Place Junior Thanker – Jenessa MacEachern – Cape Breton County 3rd Place Intermediate Public Speaker – Emma Ferguson – Richmond County

5st Place Senior Public Speaker– Kristen Sutherland – Cape Breton County 1st Place Junior Double Demonstration – Amber Lovell and Andrew Cantwell – Cape Breton County -

(Champion Overall Team Demonstration) 3rd Place Senior Double Demonstration – Jarvis Pierrard and Caitlyn Hanam – Victoria County 1st Runner Up Provincial Host Competitio – Shane Gillis – Cape Breton County 3rd Place Horse Classic Team – Stephanie Clark, Shirley Hill, Emma Simpson, Rebecca MacKeigan – Cape Breton County

14 follow the 4-H trail then you and I together can follow the In Memory 4-H trail You can choose your favourite project June 19, 2009 marked a difficult day through out the coming year Yes, you and I together can follow in the 4-H community as it suffered the 4-H trail the loss of one of its own, George Mac You can ride a horse or show a calf, of Neil, Cape Breton County. even raise a steer Written and composed by George For those of us serving as leaders, You can even go square dancing, or Mac Neil George has left big shoes to be filled. run an auction sale He always challenged us to think of * Donations can be made to the members first, to find a way for Oh there are many things that you can the “George MacNeil 4-H each member to succeed, to make it do, if you follow the 4-H trail Scholarship Fund”, c/o Barb fun, and to find the best in each young MacKinnon, Steel Centre person who we work with. We will Credit Union Ltd, located at miss his songs, his smiles, and his So come on 4-H members, and sing 340 Prince Street, Sydney, hugs. We will miss his jokes, his this song with me Nova Scotia B1P 5K9 leadership and his 4-H spirit. But we are all better leaders and better Let’s thank our 4-H leaders, for all members because of George. He lived their work is free his life, day in and out, by the 4-H pledge. Using his head, heart, hands They help us with our projects, so you and health, George instilled a sense of and I don’t fail community, loyalty, and service to others and community. More Then you and I together can follow the important, he encouraged and 4-H trail inspired each of us to do the same. As we go about our work with young people, and with those in our You can travel round the country; communities, we will remember meet new friends from near and far George Mac Neil, and continue to “Follow the 4-H Trail”. Sing songs around the campfire, while someone plays guitar Recently, George’s song, “Follow the 4-H Trail”, was adopted by Join hands at all the meetings, find Canadian Council as the National friendships that won’t fail 4-H Song. And you and I together can follow the “Follow the 4-H trail 4-H Trail” So come on 4-H members, and sing If you’re just the average boy or girl, this song with me then I have a place for you Let’s thank our 4-H leaders, for all 4-H is the place to be, to make your their work is free dreams come true They help us with our projects, so you There’s sewing, gardening and baking and I don’t fail and many 4-H sales As you learn to do by doing you can

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Pictou, Antigonish and Kevin Bekkers, P.Ag. Regional News ~ Guysborough Counties Agricultural Resource Coordinator

• how to implement marketing Change of mailing Ag Awareness tactics address for Booth • how other agribusinesses have used these techniques Antigonish office. The Eastern Nova Scotia Exhibition is being held in Antigonish from Wednesday, November 4, 2009, 10 Department of Agriculture September 2 - 6. An agricultural a.m. - 4 p.m. Port Hawkesbury Civic 190 Beech Hill Road awareness booth will be set up in the Center Shannon Studio, 606 Reeves 4-H building. There will be a petting RR # 6 Antigonish, NS Street zoo, children’s activities, a scavenger B2G 0B4 hunt and agricultural displays. Check Call Catherine Plumridge to register the Exhibition newsletter for times of at (902) 563-2000 or email specific demonstrations or [email protected] 4-H Specialist presentations. Anyone who would like to volunteer a couple of hours in Melissa Fulton is the new Acting 4-H the booth can call the Agriculture Specialist for the Eastern Region. office at (902) 863-4705 to register. New Tractor Melissa is a graduate of NSAC with a License Class Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Winter Workshops She comes from a dairy farm in A new drivers license class has been Stewiake and is a member of the If you would like to see a workshop or established to allow farmers and their Young Farmers Forum. Melissa was a course offered this fall or winter, employees to legally travel on the 4-H member for many years and is please contact your commodity rep or highway with heavy liquid manure looking forward to working with the the federation and we will work with spreaders and other heavy trailers. No 4-H community in the Eastern them to develop. Examples would be drivers test will be required if the Region. You can reach her at the safety courses or first aid. application process is completed Antigonish office at (902) 863-7501 Antigonish/Guysborough Federation: before September 1, 2009. The or the Pictou office at (902) 485-7161. Anthony VanBerkel application form must be completed (902) 863-1022 or Dianne Sinclair by the applicant and, if applicable, (902) 783-2093. Pictou/North their employer. The form is faxed to Antigonish Farmers Colchester: Joe Ebbett (902) 657- (902) 424-0772 for approval. The 2122. approval letter is then taken to the Market Registry of Motor Vehicles along with the fee of $21.09. A new Class 3 The Antigonish Farmer's Market is licence will be issued with condition open for the 2009 season! Join them Marketing 101 23. Application forms are available at on Saturday morning in the 4-H the Department of Agriculture, 190 Building behind the Antigonish Arena A course for farmers who are looking Beech Hill Road or by calling the from 9 - Noon. You will find a wide to be a better marketer and are looking office at (902) 863-4705. variety of locally grown products, for a common-sense approach. Topics handcrafts, baked goods, etc. The covered include: market will run until October 31st at its current location and will move to • the basics of marketing its winter location from November 7 • marketing self assessment until the close of season on December 20, 2009. The location will be announced at a later date.

9 Although the use of wood ash on You must contact the Agriculture NewPage Port agricultural land has been used for offices to sign up as NewPage needs to Hawkesbury many years in North America and provide guest passes, hard hats and Europe, these programs have only safety glasses before you are Agricultural Wood been implemented in Nova Scotia permitted on the tour. Ash Tour since May 2007. NewPage has participated in an agricultural wood If you have any questions, please There will be a farm tour at the ash program since May 2008. Wood contact Lise LeBlanc or Misty Croney NewPage Pulp and Paper plant in Port ash increases soil pH and provides at (902) 792-2636 Hawkesbury on Tuesday, September crop nutrients such as phosphorus, 22, 2009 at 1 p.m. Come and see the potassium, calcium and boron. entire process of obtaining wood ash for the agriculture program - from the Please RSVP at the Nova Scotia hogfuel storage area, through the Department of Agriculture offices by system where they burn the hogfuel Wednesday, September 16, Gary for power to wood ash output and the Koziel (902) 563-2000 or Kevin new storage and screening area. Bekkers (902) 863-4705.

Antigonish County 4-H Upcoming Dates Pictou County 4-H Upcoming Dates Sept. 2 4-H Day at ENSE Sept. 8 Pro Show Mtg, Members/Parents, 6:30 - 7:30 Aug. 26 Council Meeting (bring forward resolutions), p.m., AEC 7 p.m. Superstore Sept. 8 Antigonish Council Meeting 7:30 - 8:30 p.m., Sept. 9-10 4-H Day at PNCE AEC Sept. 17 Pro Show meeting followed by Council Sept. 23 Last day for substitutes on pro show list Meeting (final resolutions), 6:30 p.m. Northumberland Oct. 2-4 NS 4-H Show Bridgewater Sept. 23 Last day for substitutes on pro show list Oct. 13 Antigonish Council Meeting 7 p.m. Oct.2-4 NS 4-H Show, Bridgewater Oct. 25 County Awards Program 2 p.m., St. Andrew’s Oct. 29 Council Meeting, 7 p.m.

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