Printed Acrobat Reader Page #’s Page # Main Newsletter (for all regions) New Animal Protection Legislation Introduced 1 2 Minister Signs Five-Year Agriculture Agreement 1 2 NS Crop & Livestock Insurance Commission 2 3 – Production Insurance – Nova Scotia Wildlife Compensation Program - a first in Atlantic Canada – Client Obligations / Responsibilities Contratulations to Jill Rogers 2 3 Programs and Business Risk Management Division 3 4 – AgriInvest and AgriStability Information – Programs Update – Orchard and Vineyard Transition Program (OVTP) Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) 4 5 Dr. Rob Gordon appointed Dean of OAC at University of Guelph 4 5 Mineral and Trace Element Status of Grass and Legume Silage in Nova Scotia 5 6 Grazing Mentorship Project for Maritime Producers 5 6 Agricultural Awareness Activities 6 7 Select Nova Scotia - Incredible Picnic 6 7 Rural Energy Action Conference and Trade Show (REACT 2008) 7 8 Upcoming NSAC Courses through Continuing & Distance Education 7 8 4-H News 9 10 – Windsor to Host 31st Annual Nova Scotia 4-H Show – 4-H Members to Compete in Young Speakers For Agriculture Competition Employment Opportunity: Farm Safety Consultant 10 11 More Energy Beet Field Days 10 11

Custom Newsletter Pages (for individual regions) West Hants, Kings, Lunenburg and Queens counties 11 12 Colchester, Cumberland, East Hants, and Halifax Regional Municipality 11 13 Cape Breton, Victoria, Inverness and Richmond counties 11-14 14-17 Pictou, Antigonish, Inverness and Guysborough counties - - Annapolis, Digby, Yarmouth and Shelburne counties - - August 2008 Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture Volume 9 No. 3

New Animal Protection Legislation Introduced

The province introduced legislation investigations, enhancing its appeals of animal seizures and on May 27, that will improve the accountability.” investigation issues,” said Mr. protection of animals in Nova Scotia. Taylor. “This is an opportunity for The new animal protection act will individuals to have the seizure of an An Act to Protect Animals and to Aid allow the minister to revoke the animal reviewed by an independent Animals That Are in Distress will SPCA’s ability to enforce the act and board in a timely manner.” replace the Animal Cruelty designate another entity to fulfill that Prevention Act. role if the SPCA fails to perform the Other changes include requirements duties set out in the legislation. that annual meetings of the SPCA “A number of changes and must be open to the public and improvements have been made to the “We are also establishing an Animal veterinarians must report animal act to ensure the welfare of animals Cruelty Appeal Board to hear neglect or abuse to the SPCA. in the province,” said Brooke Taylor, Minister of Agriculture. "The Department of Agriculture will look after all agriculture-related cruelty Minister Signs Five-Year Agriculture complaints while the SPCA will handle complaints concerning Agreement domestic animals.” Nova Scotia farmers will continue to agricultural sector and involved them The Department of Agriculture and have programs to help them adapt to in discussions leading up to the the SPCA will each have a head changing consumer markets, signing of this agreement. inspector to oversee inspectors enhance food safety systems, support throughout the province. All environmental actions and prevent “Growing Forward is good for Nova inspectors will meet criteria disease and track food to its original Scotia farmers because it provides established in the act, as well as source. program flexibility to meet local qualifications and standards to be needs.” appointed a special constable by the Agriculture Minister Brooke Taylor, Department of Justice. with his Canadian counterparts, Nova Scotia will work with the signed a $1.3-billion agreement on federal government to determine the “The SPCA remains an independent July 11, during the annual ministers program details and implement them society and will have the authority to conference in Quebec City. by April 1, 2009. The agreement is do its work under the act as it relates cost-shared 60-40 by the federal and to non-farm animals,” said Mr. The Growing Forward agreement provincial governments. Taylor. “The society will report to will fund current programs and help the department annually on its develop new approaches for Nova The agreement also includes Scotia's agricultural industry. agriculture business risk- management programs. “Growing Forward provides many benefits right across the value chain, from farm gate to fork,” said Mr. Taylor. "We have consulted with the Back issues of this newsletter are available on-line at http://www.gov.ns.ca/agri/rs/fs/arcs/

1 Nova Scotia Crop & Livestock Insurance Commission Congratulations to Production Insurance Jill Rogers! Application Deadlines planting is September 30 in Jill Rogers, NSAC’s Manager of Winter Grain - August 31 Annapolis, Kings and Hants West Research and Graduate Studies, Forage Establishment - October 15 counties and September 20 for all has accepted a new position with Raspberries - October 31 other areas. Agriculture Services in the Strawberries - November 14 Department of Agriculture as the Blueberries - November 14 The deadline to apply for Forage senior planning and development Tree Fruit - November 30 Establishment is October 31. Fields officer. of legumes and legume-grass mixes The application deadline is fast seeded by July 1, as well as grass In her new role, Jill will approaching for Winter Grain – seeded by September 1, are eligible coordinate matters related to August 31! The deadline for for coverage. federal-provincial agreements and their amendments, with emphasis on the new Growing Forward agreement. She will also have responsibility for research, analysis and reporting Nova Scotia Wildlife Compensation Program of programs, implementation of legislative documents and – a first in Atlantic Canada general business planning and accountability across the Branch. On May 8, 2008 a new program that The Nova Scotia Crop and Livestock provides Nova Scotia farmers with Insurance Commission is compensation for damage to crops administering the program, which is and livestock was announced by cost shared by the federal and Agriculture Minister Brooke Taylor. provincial governments under the The program provides assistance to Agricultural Policy Framework. farmers who experience damage to More information on specific crops eligible agricultural products as a and livestock currently covered result of the activities of wildlife. under the program and application Examples of eligible products forms are available on the include beehives, plants, trees and Commission’s website at vines grown as commercial crops, www.gov.ns.ca/agri/ci or by calling and livestock such as cattle, sheep 1-800-565-6371. Information can and goats raised for agricultural also be obtained through regional purposes. Fowl are excluded. agriculture offices.

Client Obligations / Responsibilities

Crop insurance clients are reminded • If applying for a claim you must • Dairy producers are reminded that to: submit a proof of loss form within claims for the loss of an animal 30 days of harvest. must be made within 48 hours of • Report damage as soon as it the loss on the forms provided. occurs and within five days of any • Cancellation deadlines for loss or damage. If damage is not insurance contracts are September For further information on any of our noted until harvest you must 15 for strawberry and winter insurance plans, please call Kentville provide a notice of damage within grain, November 14 for tree (902) 679-6028/6015 or Truro ( 902) five days of harvest. insurance, November 30 for tree 893-6370 or 1-800-565-6371. fruit, and December 15 for • Report accurate yield information blueberries. within 30 days of harvesting an insured crop.

2 Programs and Business Risk Management Division

AgriInvest and believe you should have, contact the AgriInvest and AgriStability deadline federal administration by calling 1- AgriStability Information 866-367-8506. reminder for 2007 sessions: September 30, 2008 is the deadline AgriStability 2009 If you would like to learn more to submit AgriInvest and/or Enrolment about the AgriInvest and AgriStability application(s) for the AgriStability programs or need help 2007 program year. Forms and Producers who did not participate in filing your forms please attend an guides are available from the Canada 2008 AgriStability or are new to information session near you. Revenue Agency or on the farming must request a New AgriStability and AgriInvest web Participant package before April 30, If you are interested in meeting one sites at www.agr.gc.ca/AgriStability 2009. To request an Agristability on one, staff will be available prior or www.agr.gc.ca/AgriInvest. new participants package or for more to the scheduled meeting in your information, visit the AgriStability area. To make an appointment phone If you miss the September 30 filing website at Steven Tattrie at the Programs and deadline, you can still submit the www.agr.gc.ca/agristability or call Business Risk Management office form until December 31, 2008, but a AgriStability toll free at 1-866-367- (902-893-6374 or 1-866-844-4276). penalty for late filing will be 8506. applied. For AgriInvest the allowable net sales used to calculate your matchable deposit will be reduced Presentations Schedule: by five per cent for each month (or Date Location Time each part of the month) your form is submitted late. For AgriStability September 2 Truro Best Western Glengarry 7 p.m. your payment will be reduced $500 September 3 Baddeck Presbyterian Knox Church 7 p.m. for each month (or each part of the September 4 Antigonish Maritime Inn 7 p.m. month) your form is submitted late. September16 Bridgewater Wandlyn Inn 7 p.m. September17 Weymouth Weymouth Branch - 7 p.m. For more information on any of the Western Counties Regional Library above, contact the AgriStability or September18 Kentville Old Orchard Inn 7 p.m. AgriInvest toll free line at 1-866- 367-8506, or contact Steven Tattrie, For more information on any of the above, contact Steven Tattrie, Programs Programs and Business Risk and Business Risk Management (NSDA) at (902) 893-6374 or toll free Management (NSDA) at (902) 893- 1-866-844-4276. 6374 or toll free 1-866-844-4276.

The 2008 AgriStability Programs Update The ONLY call for Letters of Intent Enrolment Fee Deadline for the Technology Development Most producers would have already The Farm Investment Fund (FIF) is 2000 Program for this program year received their enrolment notice for still accepting applications, with is September 30, 2008. 2008 AgriStability. The deadline to nearly 550 received to date. There is pay the fee amount was April 30, still time to apply for projects that The Agri-Food Industry 2008, or 30 days after the enrolment you wish to undertake this fall. You Development Fund (AFIDF) notice was dated. If you have missed are encouraged to claim projects as program is currently open, with 67 the deadline you may still participate they are completed, which may help applications to date. These include but a late penalty charge of 20 per you cash manage for multiple applications to the new Specified cent will be added to your fee. approved projects. There is no limit Risk Material (SRM) Handling Participants have until December 31, to the amount of claims you may category and the Strategic 2008 to pay the fee with penalty. If submit. Infrastructure Investment Fund you have not received an enrolment notice for 2008 AgriStability and ...continued on next page 3 Continued from previous page... Seeking an outlet to advertise your (SIIF) category. Applications are Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs)? still being accepted for AFIDF program categories A through E. The Nova Scotia Department of on historic and modern uses, Natural Resources is teaming up harvesting information and more with representatives in all four pertaining to NTFPs, will be Orchard and Vineyard Atlantic Provinces and the state of available online and in a printed Transition Program Maine to create a non-timber forest format. Copies will be distributed at (OVTP) product (NTFP) directory called Sobeys outlets, farmers’ markets, From Our Atlantic Woods where you NSDNR offices, tourism booths, Program uptake has been brisk. can publish your NTFPs and craft fairs and other venues, as well More than 80 applications for services for FREE. as from the listed places of business. funding to remove orchard or This is a great business opportunity vineyard have been received to date. NTFPs consist of any goods or for small scale producers, growers, An onsite pre-inspection must be services that come from the forest and sellers of NTFPs to promote conducted before work begins. Once excluding conventional wood themselves across the Atlantic, and it the plant material (including stumps products like timber and pulpwood. is FREE! and roots) has been removed from Examples include, fiddleheads, the site and destroyed, a claim can mushrooms, berries, maple syrup, If interested in advertising a Nova be submitted. A post-inspection will and eco-tourism. Scotian NTFP business in the follow. A producer can claim directory, please contact Simon individual blocks as they are The goal of the From Our Atlantic Mutabazi, [email protected], completed. Multiple claims are Woods directory is to facilitate the 1-866-266-7577. If you want convenient and aid in cash flow. development of a vibrant, diverse additional information on this and sustainable NTFPs industry in project, please visit The guidelines and application forms the region. The directory, which will www.ntfp.infor.ca. for FIF, Technology Development include photos, recipes, information 2000 Program, Agri-Food Industry Development Fund, and the Orchard and Vineyard Transition program may be accessed at the following web site: www.gov.ns.ca/agri/prm . Questions? Contact Programs & Business Risk Management office at 902-893-6510 or toll free 1-866-844- Dr. Rob Gordon appointed Dean of OAC at University of Guelph

Dr. Rob Gordon, Nova Scotia as a provincial climatologist. In Agricultural (NSAC) professor and 1999 he became an associate Dean of Research, has been professor at NSAC and has since appointed Dean of Ontario served as dean, department head, Agricultural College (OAC). Dr. and Canada Research Chair. Dr. Gordon began his five-year term Gordon was named Dean of with the OAC in August. Research in 2006. In this position, he advanced the research goals of Dr. Gordon has a long history with the NSAC by actively promoting agriculture and NSAC. Graduating the research and technology from NSAC in 1985, he joined the transfer efforts on campus and Nova Scotia Department of helping to foster research growth Agriculture and Marketing in 1988 and excellence.

4 Mineral and Trace Element status of Grass and Legume Silage in Nova Scotia Impact on Dairy Production

By: Dan Mosley, Dairy Specialist, Grass and Grass Alfalfa Mix Silage AgraPoint s i Many factors affect the health and s Grass & Alfalfa y 250.00 l performance of the dairy herd, one a Grass n

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s r m m m m n m se c m r m great excess in dairy diets. At best ru o u e in e u u % iu iu iu iu Ir Z iu p n h lc o s s d in n n p e lp a h e s o a le o d u this is a waste, and at worst it has a C sp n ta S m g e C b S o g o lu n S h a P A a ly negative effect on animal health and P M M o M performance. * * Molybdenum value divided by 4 to fit the graph Forage Samples Samples were taken from across the province. These figures are typical Molybdenum binds onto copper to years with the global mineral premix forage values, not animal prevent the cow absorbing it. Since company Trouw Nutrition working requirements. The 100 per cent line copper plays an important role in on animal requirements and is the average amount expected of fertility, this can lead to poor interactions between feeds on-farm. those elements in the forage. breeding signals or cows not In order to see what these nutrient showing signs of heat. levels mean in a practical situation get in touch with Dan to assess the AgraPoint has a wealth of experience minerals and trace elements. in understanding all aspects of dairy nutrition, including what has been For more information on this subject, discussed here – minerals and trace contact Dan Mosley at (902) 890- elements. Dan Mosley spent four 9665.

Grazing Mentorship Project for Maritime Producers

Producers in the Maritimes with a Grazing Mentor who will AgraPoint is co-ordinating the interested in enhancing profits and come to the farm to discuss your program in the Maritimes. To find the environment through grazing grazing resources, opportunities and out more and to get introduced to a management will be interested in the challenges. The Mentor will make grazing mentor, contact Jonathan Grazing Mentorship Project. suggestions about fencing, watering Wort, Ruminant Specialist, systems, grazing systems, plant AgraPoint, 1-866-606-4636 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada growth, forage species, winter E-mail: [email protected] and the Canadian Cattlemen's grazing options; be available for Website: www.extensioncentral.com Association, through the Greencover phone follow-up to help you in Technical Assistance Program, are decision-making and the funding this unique mentorship implementation of your new grazing program that connects producers management choices.

5 Agricultural Awareness Activities

Agriculture in the classroom got out October 10 -19 – AgCot Center at For information on these or any of the classroom this spring in the Maritime Fall Fair. We are other agricultural awareness events Central Nova Scotia. The AgZone expanding our presence at the Fair contact: Judy Grant Ag Awareness event in May at the Nova Scotia with a new exhibit, highlighting our Coordinator (902) 893-6598 Agricultural College brought about Environmental Farm Plan program. 400 grade eight students, with their Commodity groups will also be teachers and chaperones, into the featuring their products with the barns and labs to get a glimpse of spotlight on our cooking stage with modern agricultural education and Chef Hans Wikki. research. They worked their way through short workshop sessions where topics ranged from extracting DNA from strawberries to measuring egg quality with colorimetry. Student groups were pitted against each other in some friendly competition. The day was designed in the style of the SELECT NOVA SCOTIA “Amazing Race” complete with PRESENTS THE “roadblocks” and “check-in mats”. REDIBLE PICN The heat of competition kept the INC IC groups moving at top speed around Sunday August 24, 2008 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. campus – often with their guides lagging behind! Evaluation of this A local food picnic – it’s a simple Kings County – Prescott House new program which targeted an idea: Nova Scotians get together Museum older age group than in the past, was with family and friends to eat fresh, Liverpool – White Point Beach Resort Sydney – Petersfield Park excellent, with teachers as well as local food. What’s easier or more presenters at NSAC agreeing on the Truro – Victoria Park enjoyable, especially on a beautiful Tatamagouche – Community field, effectiveness of the event. Part of summer afternoon? Main St. the success may be due to planning Windsor – Cocoa Pesto Bistro and of the workshops sessions, which Promoting the concept of eating Victoria Park was guided by curriculum what is available from local farmers, connections for science in grade fishers, and producers to Nova Consumers are invited to bring a eight. We look forward to offering Scotians, Select Nova Scotia picnic lunch or purchase local foods the program again next year, with launches the Incredible Picnic. It from farmers and chefs. There will the possibility of adding a similar will take place simultaneously at be live music and childrens' session for students in the Halifax several locations across the province activities. Enter to win prizes for area based in the Museum of Natural on Sunday August 24, 2008 from picnic photos. And do not forget to History. 11a.m. – 3 p.m. bring a blanket!

Upcoming Ag Awareness events: They include: Visit www.SelectNovaScotia.ca for more information and activities. September 21 – Open Farm Day. Annapolis Royal – Farmers market and wharf On this day 50 farms from across the Antigonish – Chisholm Park By choosing local foods, Nova province will open their farm gates Guysborough – Rare Bird Pub Scotians are making a difference for to visitors. Look for information on courtyard our farmers, for our economy and for Halifax – Garrison Grounds, Citadel Open Farms on the website: our way of life. www.gov.ns.ca/agri/agaware and Hill watch for the Live at Five coverage Hubbards – Hubbards Barn and Community Park of the event on Friday Sept 19.

6 Rural Energy Action Conference and Trade Upcoming courses at Show (REACT 2008) NSAC through Continuing & Distance November 7 and 8, 2008 at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre Education

Introductory Welding Course: November 18 – December 4 (Tues- days and Thursdays) This course is for beginners or welders who would like more hands- on practice. It covers the theory, techniques and shop practice of arc- welding from project start to finish.

Integrated Pest Management for Landscapers* : October 30, 2008 This training session for landscapers In rural Nova Scotia, conservation • Not-for-profit groups and will focus on sustainable landscape and renewable energy production are community service organizations practices, the elements of an being touted as the key to sustaining integrated weed management • Local government leaders regional farms, local businesses and approach, pesticide safety practices, communities. Find out: •Community economic pesticide performance, water quality, development staff new products and technologies. – who is leading the charge when it •Renewable energy companies, Integrated Pest Management for comes to building “greener” energy consultants and retail Farmers* : November 6, 2008 communities. businesses This training session for farmers will –how conservation and emerging focus on pesticide safety practices, •Anyone who has an interest in renewable energy technologies pesticide performance and the effect energy issues can help farms, local businesses, of water quality, developing an IPM homeowners and municipalities Detailed Conference and Trade strategy, new products and technolo- save money. Show information is available on the gies. Strait-Highlands RDA website at –what funding resources are * Eligible course participants will be www.strait-highlands.ca, the available for using and producing awarded five points in the Nova Scotia REACT 2008 website alternative forms of energy, bio- Pesticide Re-certification Program. www.REACT2008.com or by fuel and bio-heat. contacting the REACT 2008 office at Pesticide Applicator Certification : –what the investment and career (902) 625-5486. November 17-20, 2008 opportunities are in the emerging This course teaches you the basic renewable energy sector REACT 2008 is supported by the principles and practices of safe use, Inverness Victoria Federation of handling and storage of pesticides. It Who should attend the conference Agriculture, Nova Scotia Department of is excellent preparation for those and trade show? Agriculture, Nova Scotia Department of writing the Pesticide Applicator's Economic Development, Nova Scotia Examination. Course content ranges • Farm producers and other small Department of Energy, AgraPoint, Agri business owners *Students and Futures Nova Scotia, Agriculture and Agri- from integrated pest management educators * Food Canada, Service Canada, and the principles to doing your own Strait-Highlands RDA. calibration and calculations.

Fall Semester

AGRI 3001: Issues in Agricultural Health and Safety A series of on-line modules in agricultural health and safety

...continued on next page 7 Continued from previous page...

designed for agricultural students, Certificate program are available for studies on selected organic farms farm managers and owner-operators, credit or non-credit. To receive the and farmer profiles build a real who wish to obtain a better under- Certificate, students may choose four world understanding for the topic. standing of the health and safety of the five available courses: issues present on Canadian farms. Beginning Winter 2009 The focus of the program is to Beginning Fall 2008 describe the health and safety Organic Field Crop Management situation in the agriculture industry, Composting and Compost Use In this course students will be the major health and safety risks in This course relies on activity based, introduced to organic principles and this industry and highlight the hands-on learning. This course practices applied to the production importance of improving the current examines how the principles of and management of field crops. You situation. composting are applied, how to will learn how to optimize crop yield evaluate and manage an actively and quality organically, practice SPEC 4013: Global Seminar- working pile and maintain optimum sustainable soil and nutrient manage- Rural Sustainability conditions for composting in organic ment and review organic certification The course uses a unique approach agriculture and horticulture. requirements. to global learning and evaluation Transition to Organic Agriculture: Organic Livestock Production based on real-world practices. The Producers considering switching to In this five module course you will goal of the Global Seminar is to organic agriculture will benefit from be given an introduction to organic prepare future leaders and citizens of this introduction to the subject. This livestock production, reasons for the global community to articulate course consists of five modules, raising livestock organically, health policy agendas that will lead to a enhanced by group discussions and management strategies and market- sustainable environment and a stable the use of internet-based organic ing methods, and a discussion food supply. information resources. Students will surrounding ethical issues. Students be given a brief description of what Certificate of Specialization in will study during the term through is organic and why it is beneficial to Organic Agriculture discussion groups and internet-based the industry, as well as reasons for The Certificate of Specialization in organic information resources. choosing organic production Organic Agriculture offers practical, methods. Certification methods and NSAC’s Continuing & Distance hands-on experience and specialized practical approaches to planning and Education can help expand your skills in the field of organic agricul- managing organic systems are professional development in agriculture. The courses will assist new and covered throughout the course. ture, environmental, plant and existing producers, as well as those animal sciences, horticulture and interested in organic agriculture, to Principles of Organic Horticulture more. Visit us online at nsac.ca/cde develop a strong understanding of The overall objective for this course or call (902) 893-6666. many areas within the field. Offered is to introduce you to the principles online through web-based study, the of organic horticulture production Nova Scotia Certificate of Specialization in systems. Students will look at: soil Agricultural Organic Agriculture provides the fertility, organic soil amendments, College foundation on which to build a compost and mulches, crop rotation, successful future in the field. plant health, management of diseases Continuing & Courses offered through the and pests, marketing and more. Case Distance Education

Your Agricultural Resource Coordinators

Acting Sr. Agricultural Resource Coord.: Cumberland, Colchester, East Hants, Cape Breton, Victoria, Inverness & Andrew Cameron – Truro & Halifax Regional Municipality: Richmond counties: Tel: (902) 893-7314 | Fax: (902) 893-0244 Michael Kittilsen – Gary Koziel – Tel: (902) 893-3645 | Fax: (902) 893-0244 Tel: (902) 563-2000 | Fax: (902) 563-3435 Kings, West Hants, Lunenburg, & Queens [email protected] [email protected] counties: Brian MacCulloch – Pictou, Antigonish & Guysborough Annapolis, Digby, Yarmouth, & Shelburne Tel: (902) 679-6006 | Fax: (902) 679-6062 counties: counties: [email protected] Kevin Bekkers – Dennis Moerman – Tel: (902) 863-4705 | Fax: (902) 863-7342 Tel: (902) 837-5161 | Fax: (902) 837-7696 [email protected] [email protected]

8 4-H Members to Compete in Young Speakers For Agriculture Competition

If you are a 4-H member and would The Nova Scotia 4-H member that For more information contact the like the opportunity to speak about wins the provincial contest will be nearest 4-H office or check out the your enthusiasm for the agriculture sponsored by the Nova Scotia 4-H website www.cysa-joca.ca. industry and challenge your public Council and will take part in the speaking skills then why not enter Canadian Young Speakers of the Young Speakers for Agriculture Agriculture National Senior Public Senior Public Speaking Speaking Competition at Competition? This competition will the Royal Agricultural be held on Friday, September 26, Winter Fair in Toronto, 2008 at 7 p.m. at the Hants County Ontario on Saturday, Exhibition Grounds in Windsor. All November 8, 2008. senior 4-H members and 4-H Alumni ! ! who are 16 - 24 years of age as of the competition date can enter either CANADIAN YOUNG SPEAKERS JEUNES ORATEURS CANADIENS the provincial competition in FOR AGRICULTURE INC. POUR L’AGRICULTURE INC. Windsor or the national contest at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in November.

The competitors have five agriculturally related topics from which they can choose to speak: Windsor to Host 31st Annual Nova Scotia 4-H Show – Leadership in Agriculture: What Does it Take? At this time of year 4-H members In a national survey by the Canadian – Going Green? Environmental are busy attending exhibitions with 4-H Council and Ispos-Reid, 1097 4- Efforts in Agriculture. their 4-H projects and making H Alumni were polled for their preparations for the Nova Scotia 4-H attitudes towards the 4-H program – Food, Fuel and More: Exploring Show on September 26 – 28, 2008. and its impact on them. Seventy-four the Future of Agriculture. Each year a county or region hosts per cent of alumni said their – Organics: A Trend or a the 4-H Show. Kings County 4-H experiences as a 4-H member was Tremendous Opportunity? Council has the responsibility of very beneficial in terms of making site arrangements, providing contributing to personal or career – Agriculture Around the World: security, fund raising and promotion experiences later in life. In Where Does Canada Stand? this year. particular, one thing they pinpointed Along with project work 4-H was acquiring and building members are taught public speaking Hosted at the Hants County teamwork and interpersonal skills. skills during the year and each Exhibition Grounds in Windsor, this spring 4-H clubs, counties and annual event is an excellent The Nova Scotia 4-H Show is open regions hold communications opportunity for 4-H families and the to the public and admission is free. competitions. Many young people general public to view the talents of Competitions begin Friday, often identify the communications 4-H members across the province. September 26 and continue until training and the confidence that it The Nova Scotia 4-H show has noon on Sunday, September 28. has given them as their most grown into a showcase of over 40 memorable experience in 4-H. different livestock and life skills projects proudly displayed by 4-H members.

9 4-H and Rural Organizations Staff

Senior 4-H Program Coordinator: Employment Opportunity: Farm Safety Ruth Grant - Truro Consultant Tel:(902) 893-6584 Fax: (902) 893-2757 [email protected] The Canadian Agricultural Health – Develop material (print and on- Yarmouth, Digby and Annapolis and Safety Program (CAHSP) line) about on-farm health and Counties: awarded the Nova Scotia safety. Jean Ward - Lawrencetown Agricultural College a grant for a – Upon farmer request, carry out on- Tel: (902) 584-2081/ (902) 584-2080 project entitled: A Safety Resource Fax: (902) 584-3069 farm safety reviews. [email protected] for Farmers: Building Nova Scotia’s Capacity to Farm Safely. As a result – Provide recommendations for Lunenburg, Queens and Shelburne of this grant, the Rural Research future farm safety efforts in Nova Counties: Valorie Oickle - Bridgewater Centre of the NSAC is inviting Scotia. applications for a Farm Safety Tel: (902) 543-0616 Location: Truro, Nova Scotia Fax: (902) 543-0618 Consultant. [email protected] Salary: $20/hour Duration: This is a seven (7) month Hants and Kings Counties: Qualifications: Jennifer MacLaren - Kentville – A Bachelor of Science degree in (29 week) position from September Tel: (902) 679-6027 Agriculture is preferred. 2008 to March 2009, Monday - Fax: (902) 679-6062 Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm, 35 hours [email protected] – Possess knowledge of agricultural per week. Halifax-East Hants, Colchester and production practices, machinery, Application Deadline: Monday, Cumberland Counties: storage, and animal housing/ September 8, 2008 Jacqueline Hoyt - Truro handling facilities commonly used Tel: (902) 893-6586 in Nova Scotia. Please submit resume (including 3 Fax: (902) 893-2757 [email protected] – Keen interest in agricultural references) and cover letter detailing your suitability for this position to: Pictou, Antigonish and Guysborough safety. Counties: – Excellent communication skills, Career Services Office Dawn Barrington - Hodgson - Pictou/ Nova Scotia Agricultural College Antigonish presentations skills. Tel: (902) 485-7161/ (902) 863-7501 11 River Rd. PO Box 550 Fax: (902) 485-4014/ (902) 863-7342 Responsibilities: Truro, Nova Scotia B2N 5E3 [email protected] – Conduct training sessions in farm Fax: (902)895-4547 health and safety. Inverness, Victoria, Cape Breton and Email: [email protected] Richmond Counties: Rhonda MacDougall -Mabou Tel: (902) 945-2901 Fax: (902) 945-2858 [email protected] Marina Gillis - Sydney Tel:(902) 563-2001 More Energy Beet Field Days! Fax:(902) 563-3435 [email protected] Over 225 farmers came to the energy beet field days in Truro and Falmouth Provincial Agriculture Awareness in July. It was a great opportunity to learn about the Nova Scotia energy beet Coordinator growing experience. For those of you who missed the July tours or would Judy Grant – Truro like to come back and hear more, come and learn why more growers are Tel:(902) 893-6598 considering planting energy beets in 2009. Join us at one of the locations Fax: (902) 893-2757 [email protected] below and enjoy a James Lamb barbeque. Communications & Resource Coord. Cheryl Chandler - Mabou RSVP Lise LeBlanc by Friday, August 22 1-866-720-2338 (BEET) Tel:(902) 945-2902 Tuesday, August 26, 2008 – Peter and John Swetnam, Northville Fax:(902) 945-2858 Wednesday, August 27, 2008 – Doug Bacon, Amherst [email protected] Thursday, August 28, 2008 – Sandy Stewart, Scotsburn For directions to the field day locations and more info visit: www.atlantecbioenergy.com

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

Annapolis County Federation Livestock Sales Update of Mailing List

Cattle sales at the Lawrencetown Exhibition Grounds will be starting in We are once again trying to update our September. The dates for sales for the remainder of the year are: September mailing list. If you receive this 20, October 4 and 18, November 1, 15 and 29. Selling of miscellaneous newsletter and do not wish to receive items will begin at 11 a.m. Selling of livestock begins at 1 p.m. it any longer or if your address is incorrect, please notify Cheryl Theriau by phone (902) 679-6021 or e-mail, Local Community Fairs and Exhibitions [email protected]. Thanks for your help in this task. Do not forget about the local community fairs and exhibitions being held in our region: New Ross Community Fair - August 15-16 Provincial Show Dalhousie Community Fair - August 23 Western Kings Fair, Tremont - August 30 The 4-H Provincial Show is a great event to attend and to see what 4-H is Hants Co. Exhibition, Windsor - September 12-14 and September 19-21 all about. It will be taking place Queens Co. Exhibition, Caledonia - September 16-20 September 26 – 28 at the Hants County Exhibition Grounds in Windsor. The show displays the top projects, articles, and livestock from Valley Region 4-H Activities and Announcements each county in Nova Scotia. Some of the highlights of the weekend include August 26: Kings County Provincial Show Meeting 7 p.m., Kentville tug-of-war, a fashion show, market Agricultural Center lamb, market steer and market turkey September 4: Kings County Council Meeting 7:30 p.m., Kentville auctions, the Grand Champion Agricultural Center Showmanship Class and the parade of September 8: Hants County Council Meeting 7 p.m., O’Brien Building champions. Kings County is proud to Windsor host the 31st Provincial Show, in Windsor. September 12-14:Hants County 4-H Exhibition Days, Hants County Exhibition Grounds September 26-28:Provincial Show, Hants County Exhibition Grounds Interested In Joining 4-H? As the summer comes to a close, the end of another 4-H year draws near. Hants County Exhibition 4-H Days, Hants County For people interested in joining 4-H Exhibition Grounds this year, now is the time to get ready. With the variety of projects offered in September 12 - September 14 4-H there is definitely something for everyone! If anyone is interested in Hants County Exhibition preparation 14, sheep, light horse and the grand finding out more about the 4-H is well underway. All life skills champion livestock showmanship program, give the 4-H office a call at articles will be judged on Thursday. class will be happening. Different (902) 679-6027 and they will be more They will be on display all week. competitions including the bake-off, than happy to give some helpful The evening of Friday, September 12 vegetable preparation, woodworking, information. the Dog and Draft Horse Classes will floral arranging, outdoorsman, be held. On Saturday, September 13, photography, cake decorating, beef, dairy, goat, light horse, fashion show, and beef, dairy and waterfowl and poultry classes will be sheep clipping will be happening taking place along with a variety of throughout the weekend. competitions. On Sunday, September

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

The 2008 Canadian Agri- AgriInvest and Open Farm Day – Sunday, September 21 Food Awards of AgriStability Excellence Deadline Reminder Sobeys is a major sponsor for this event and have provincial maps showing all the great destinations. Reminder: September 30, 2008 is the Canadian agriculture certainly has its Why not pick up a map and offer to deadline to submit AgriInvest and champions and the Canadian Agri- help a farmer in your community AgriStability program information Food Awards of Excellence is a great with their visitors? opportunity to recognize their for the 2007 program year. efforts. There are six areas that are For additional details and To learn more, visit recognized: youth leadership; information regarding the program www.agr.gc.ca/agriinvest or call 1- innovation in agriculture and agri- you can contact Michael Kittilsen or 866-367-8506. food; agri-food export; agricultural Judy Grant (902) 893-6598 awareness and education; [email protected] agricultural voluntarism and Upcoming Events environmental stewardship. Atlantic Sheep Sale Sponsored Upcoming Central For more information call 1-800- by PSBANS Region 4-H activities 410-7104 or go to Saturday, August 30, 2008 Truro NS: http://www.agr.gc.ca/ . 28th Annual Sale of Breeding Stock, September 2 – Cumberland County for further information/catalogues 4-H council meeting Local County Rosamary Wort (902) 671-2410 or [email protected] September 6 – Colchester Pro-Show Exhibitions: member and parent information Cumberland County Exhibition meeting 6 p.m. at 4-H barn in Truro Oxford, August 26-30 Eastern Nova Scotia Exhibition September 8 – Colchester County 4- Antigonish, August 27-31 H council meeting Pictou/North Colchester Exhibition Pictou, September 3-6 September 9 – Halifax Regional Hants County Exhibition Municipality, 4-H council meeting Windsor, September 12-14 in Musquodoboit Nova Scotia 4-H Show Windsor, September 26-28 September 26-28 – 4-H Provincial Maritime Fall Fair Show in Windsor Halifax, October 10-19

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

2008 Cape Breton Community Fairs Disposal of Used Farm FAIR DATE CONTACT PHONE Sharps Mira Ferry September 6 Gladys Lever (902) 562-6310 The Agriculture offices in Cheryl Macintyre (902) 562-2089 Sydney and Mabou still Florence Macintyre (902) 562-1056 have a supply of sharps Christmas Island September 13 Kevin Mackenzie (902) 622-2667 containers available at no cost for producers. Remember, Port Morien September 13 Margie Macqueen (902) 737-2478 sharps must not be discarded in Baddeck September 6 Wendell Macphee (902) 295-2494 regular household garbage. Sharps should be collected on farms in rigid, puncture resistant containers with Community fairs are excellent opportunities for rural communities to get tightly secured lids. Drop in to pick together for a fun and entertaining day, and to show off some of their talent. up your containers during our regular Anyone can enter articles from homemaking, garden, woodworking to office hours or for more info contact livestock (check with fair for specifics). If you have never been to a fair, why (902) 563-2000. not plan to attend this year.

The Cape Breton Farmer’s Market - Then and Now Amy Melmock

The Cape Breton Farmers’ Market 6,000 square foot location. These Primary producers currently has been in operation for nearly upgrades were supported by three constitute about one-third of the three decades. It began as an levels of public sector funding. They market’s membership, while organization that was committed to included the installation of hand secondary agricultural producers and bringing the products grown by washing facilities and electrical crafts people make up the balance of regional agricultural producers to the outlets at each vendor station to vendors. Vendors come from public. This focus continues to the support food safety and food storage throughout Cape Breton. They form present day. The market has requirements. They also included the an integral link between urban and operated at a number of venues in addition of a provincially inspected rural constituents of the Island. downtown Sydney, including the kitchen at the site, and the George Street seasonal outdoor development of public washroom Fridays 3-7 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30 market and at the CBRM Round facilities. a.m. - 1 p.m., year round. Room, where the market evolved 340 Keltic Drive, diagonally into a full-time year-round market. During the past month, a record opposite Coxheath Road on the In 2004, the market moved to the number of customers have been former site of W. A. MacLeod Marine Terminal Building in attracted to the new site, which has Wholesale in Sydney River. downtown Sydney. At this location, the capacity to support the number of vendors and approximately 32 vendors. The For more information on the Cape customers at the market increased CBFM currently brings together the Breton Farmers’ Market and how substantially. products and services of 28-30 year- you may get involved contact round and seasonal vendors. Charles MacDonald 902-564-2080 In June 2008, the market relocated to Visitation to the market is expected or visit their website at: its current location at a former food to fluctuate between upwards of http://www.capebretonfarmersmarke warehouse on Keltic Drive in 1,200 visitors per week during the t.com/ Sydney. The move required the peak summer and autumn seasons to CBFM to complete a series of approximately 600 visitors per week leasehold upgrades to its current during the winter and spring seasons.

11 Welcome to 4-H in Cape Breton

Cape Breton region is proud to have skills. Cape Breton Regional 4-H over 600 members, leaders and offers many interesting extras like many volunteers that help out with Junior Member Workshops; livestock this hands on program. 4-H in Cape and life skills clinics; regional and Breton is a family affair, where county rallies and of course is the being part of a club you work home of 4-H Camp Rankin, in to grow into responsible, mature together to complete project work, Richmond County. Members learn leaders by just participating in the community services and many other to work independently and together 4-H program.

A Bit About the Regional Program

Cape Breton County is home to the South West Mabou – Carol Van den They hold the biggest poultry oldest continuous 4-H club in Hoogen membership in the region and host Canada, the Grand Mira 4-H club. the Regional Public Speaking and In Richmond County, there is a This county's program offers a variety Demonstration Rally every year. strong 4-H leader base in the three of projects, especially homemaking This county also hosted the regional clubs. These clubs are strong projects, but also many different first aid workshop held at the supporters of their community and 4- livestock projects. All the clubs Alexander Graham Bell Historic Site. H programs. This county plays an welcome new membership and are This club works closely with important role in taking care of the strong supporters of the local as well Victoria County fair which is the provincial 4-H camp. Richmond as provincial program. This county longest running fair in Cape Breton County 4-H is always looking for hosted the Junior Member Workshop, history. Please feel free to contact more parent volunteers and regional horse clinic and rabbit clinic the club if you are interested in members. You are encouraged to this year. Local clubs and general joining their 4-H family. contact your local 4-H office or the leaders found in Cape Breton County below clubs if you would like to join. are: Baddeck Valley 4-H Club – Nelson County Line – Adrienne Smith Arm of Gold – Carol MacDonald Peterson Lakeside – Stuwart Carter Bayside – Verna Johnson River Bourgeois – Lorraine Gates Grand Mira – Barbara MacKinnon Fall registration for new membership starts in October and November in Northside – Ruth MacNeil Victoria County has only one club, many counties, so contact your local Rising Sun – Bev Kirk but what they lack in numbers they 4-H office for detailed contact Twin Lighthouse – Joan Leroy make up for in community spirit. information on a club near you. Inverness County has Cape Breton’s largest club this year, Port Hood Island View club and is also the Close Up Look at What’s New this Year county with the largest number of members. It is our biggest county for livestock projects, mainly dairy, beef, Scrap Booking Competition will run for one hour per junior and horse and poultry. This county hosted A scrap booking competition has senior and theme will be one junior the Junior Member Workshop this been added to the Provincial Show and one senior entry per county. year. General leader contacts include: schedule for 2008 and Hants County will volunteer to be responsible for 4-H Resource Material 4-H Lakers – Natasha MacDonald the competition in 2008. The scrap The new resource list of materials is Brook Village – Mary MacPhee and booking competition will run similar coming around with development of Janine Wilson to the crafts competition. Members a new Foods Leader Manual and/or Green Point – Darlene Rankin and are only responsible for bringing CD option. This will also include an Clare MacEachern straight scissors, all other necessary activity guide and recipe book which Margaree – Ruthanne Hart supplies will be provided. Items will will be formatted and print ready for Port Hood Island View – Joanne be judged on the final article only Schmidt (no score sheet). The competition ...continued on next page 12 Continued from previous page... membership in 2008/09. Provincial Show 2008 grounds by 8:30 p.m. This weekend Communications and Resource The 4-H Provincial Show will occur will be filled with the project Coordinator, Cheryl Chandler is also on September 26 to 28 at the judging, member judging looking at future 4-H manuals for Windsor exhibition grounds. A competitions, tug-o-war, a mud the province including updated reminder to general leaders that if stomp dance and livestock auctions. outdoorsman, sheep, photography, you cannot bring your club projects Remember, the theme for this year is woodworking and brand new a scrap to the show, please inform the 4-H “4-H 2008 : A Step to the Future.” booking leaders guide. Keeping office by September 10 in order to We encourage counties to celebrate members and leaders current in find a substitute or by September 17 our rich 4-H background with our project information is one of the to scratch. Life skills projects must communities. Come out and see the many goals of provincial staff. be in by no later than 5:30 p.m. on excitement that 4-H members, Friday, September 26 and the leaders and families have to offer. Upcoming Food Handler Courses livestock projects must be on the There are several dates for food safety courses that become available to 4-H leaders, parents and members. You are encouraged to Nova Scotia 4-H Clubs Celebrate take advantage of these programs National 4-H Month when they become accessible to you, since food preparation and handling Capture the 4-H spirit this November And we have so much to celebrate! is a big part of meetings and events. as 4-H members, volunteer leaders In a national survey conducted by the Here are some course dates for the and supporters celebrate National 4- Canadian 4-H Council and Ispos- future. H Month across Canada. The Reid, 4-H Alumni across Canada month-long celebration provides an were polled for their attitudes September 1 Marconi Campus opportunity to showcase the many towards the 4-H program and the October 8 Marconi Campus benefits of the 4-H program, which impact on them. The results strongly November 12 Marconi Campus continues to help thousands of youth indicated that the 4-H program has December 10 Marconi Campus in Nova Scotia reach their full helped and continues to help, You must pre- register for these potential. 4-H has been bringing develop youth across Canada. courses in order to attend. Call leadership and development Seventy eight percent felt the Catherine at Department of programs to Nova Scotia’s rural knowledge and skills gained in 4-H Agriculture in Sydney at (902) 563- young people since 1922 when the to continue to benefit them in their 2000. Registration forms first 4-H club began in Heatherton, adult years. Sixty-nine percent said are available at Antigonish County as a young Boy’s parents and families benefit from http://www.gov.ns.ca/agri/foodsafety and Girl’s Club. This 4-H club was their children’s membership in 4-H. /pdfs/foodhandlersyd.pdf an Ayrshire heifer and swine club The kick-off date is November 5, comprised of fourteen members. 2008 and will be the first Wednesday Poultry Clinic Since its early beginnings, the 4-H of November each year. Show your All poultry project members and program has evolved to offer support for 4-H families by wearing leaders are invited to attend a leadership training, public speaking, green on November 5th. regional poultry workshop to be held technical and life skills to youth at Victoria County’s show on from 9-21 years of age. September 6 at Baddeck Forks Hall. Members can learn about caring for poultry as well as showmanship and judging tips. The workshop instructor is Wilfred MacLean from the Sydney area. He has been a long time supporter of the industry, 4-H and agri-awareness in our local schools. Please register at your local 4-H office.

13 Upcoming Events

Here are some important dates to add to your calendar Please call the 4-H offices if you have any questions (902) 563-2001 – Inverness County Show – August 21 -23, at Brook Village Community or (902) 945-2901. If you would Hall like to get involved with the 4-H –Cape Breton County Council Meeting – September 7 at 7 p.m., program as a volunteer parent, Community Room member or leader, contact your local 4-H office in either Mabou or ––Record Keeping Competition contact 4-H offices for county deadlines Sydney. Remember to check out ––Royal Classic Dairy Chaperone Application September 1 our provincial website at ––Victoria County Days 4-H Day/ Council Mtg. September 6 at Baddeck www.gov.ns.ca/agri/4h Forks Hall –Poultry Workshop – September 6 at Baddeck Forks Hall ––Pro-Show Substitution September 10, 4-H offices –Pro-Show Scratch – September 17, 12 p.m., 4-H offices –Richmond Council – September 10, Landry’s –Inverness Co. Banquet, Church Service and Registration – October 19 –“Tentative” Homemaking Workshop – October 25 –Richmond Co. Banquet – October 26 –National 4-H Volunteer Leaders Conference – November 5-9, Toronto, Ontario –National 4-H Members Conference – November 5-9, Toronto, Ontario –Nova Scotia 4-H Council Annual Meeting – November 14-15, Truro –Cape Breton County Annual Banquet – November 16 - hosted by Rising Sun 4-H Club