Table of Contents

Printed Acrobat Reader Page #’s Page # Main Newsletter (for all regions) Transition to Growing Forward: – A New Agreement in Support of Agriculture 1 2 New Provincial Organic Agricultural Council 1 2 Agricultural Companies Receive Infrastructure Funding 2 3 Growing Opportunities - “Realizing the Benefits from the Local Food Economy” 2 3 Beyond Basic Nutrition: Healthy Functional Food Ingredients, Snacks, and Beverages from Apples 3 4 NS Crop & Livestock Insurance Commission 3 4 Programs & Business Risk Management Division 4 5 NSAC Continuing and Distance Education 5 6 AgraPoint Events 6 7 NSAC Announces New International Business Degree 7 8 Cereal and Soybean Growers Tune-up Sessions 7 8 Workshop: Agricultural Riparian Health and Management Strategy for for Atlantic Canada 7 8

Custom Newsletter Pages (for individual regions) West Hants, Kings, Lunenburg and Queens counties 8 9 Colchester, Cumberland, East Hants, and Halifax Regional Municipality 8 11 Cape Breton, Victoria, Inverness and Richmond counties 8 13 Pictou, Antigonish, Inverness and Guysborough counties 8 15 Annapolis, Digby, Yarmouth and Shelburne counties 8 16 February 2008 Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture Volume 9 No. 1

Transition to Growing Forward: A New Agreement in Support of Agriculture

The Agricultural Policy Framework In June 2007, FPT Ministers of existing cost-shared non-BRM (APF) was the first time in Canada Agriculture received authority to activities to ensure continuity for that an integrated, comprehensive and negotiate Growing Forward – a farmers and others in the sector who forward-looking agricultural policy framework which builds on the rely upon these programs. During was created. APF’s successes. Federal, provincial this transition year, new programs and territorial governments are now will be designed to address the Introduced in 2003, the APF reflected negotiating the policy architecture Growing Forward policy objectives. an agreement among FPT Ministers and program objectives for new As this architecture is implemented, that the agriculture and agri-food programs to support the policy the continuity programming will be sector needed a more sustainable and objectives outlined in Growing replaced with Growing Forward long-term approach to minimize the Forward. The plan outlined in June programming. demands for ad hoc funding. The aimed for a multilateral framework goal was to brand Canada as a world agreement in the fall, to be followed leader in food safety, innovation and by bilateral agreements and environmentally-responsible implementation on April 1, 2008. production. Governments agreed on New Provincial an action plan composed of five BRM program implementation is on Organic Agricultural elements: food safety and quality, track for full implementation in the environment, science and innovation, 2008 program year. FPT ministers Council renewal, and business risk have approved a new BRM suite set management (BRM). Programs to launch April 1, 2008. An organic agricultural council is under these elements were cost- being formed in Nova Scotia. It is shared or cost-matched 60:40 across It is now clear that while tentatively called the Nova Scotia federal, provincial and territorial negotiations on the policy and broad Organic Council and will work with governments. non-BRM program design can be the Organic Federation of completed by March 31, 2008, full Canada/Fédération biologique du The APF is set to expire on March 31, program implementation will have to Canada, a not-for-profit organization 2008. FPT governments began follow in 2008-09. It is critical that that was formed by the federal working on a new framework to programs be prudently developed government, to address issues in the replace the APF, with extensive and the industry broadly consulted to industry on standards and public consultations forming a key ensure that the new framework can regulations. component. To date, these advance the outcomes agreed to by consultations have provided a wealth FPT ministers in Growing Forward. A steering committee was formed to of ideas for the next policy set up the Nova Scotia Organic framework, and engaged industry and Ministers have agreed to support Council at a January 22 meeting of other stakeholders as partners in funding for up to one year for organic agricultural industry leaders, policy development. hosted in Bible Hill by the Industry Development and Business Services Branch of the Department of Back issues of this newsletter are Agriculture. available on-line at http://www.gov.ns.ca/agri/rs/fs/arcs/

1 ...continued on next page Continued from previous page... Agricultural Companies Receive Agriculture Minister Brooke Taylor Infrastructure Funding commended the organic sector in Nova Scotia for showing leadership by working together to create this Four agricultural companies have • Knoydart Farms Limited, to new organization. been approved for a total of upgrade equipment to process $750,000 in funding to help organic milk into specialty cheese. “Organic agriculture is an important strengthen their infrastructure and component of the future growth of sustainability. These businesses applied under the agriculture in the province.” Strategic Infrastructure Investment “These projects will assist the Fund. This is the first year of the $6 The Organic Federation of Canada producers and processors accelerate million, four-year fund. has secured federal funding of their economic potential and $27,000 for the development of the development,” said Brooke Taylor, “The Department of Agriculture provincial council. Minister of Agriculture. continues to help producers and the agriculture industry,” said Mr. Taylor. Angela Patterson, a certified organic Funding has been approved for: “These projects were chosen for their grower from Canning, Kings Co., is strong business plans and benefits • Van Meekeren Farms Limited, to for the industry as a whole. This a member of a steering committee upgrade its apple processing that will oversee the development of fund promotes creativity and equipment and expand its partnerships in our industry. We the new council. Ms. Patterson is warehouse. also president of the Nova Scotia support winning opportunities for Organic Growers Association, the • Scotian Gold Cooperative industry and our communities.” certifying body that was instrumental Limited, to improve processing in the development of the new technology and assist with plant For more information on the council. modernization. Strategic Infrastructure Investment Fund visit www.gov.ns/agri . • West Nova Agro Commodities Ms. Patterson said, “This new group Limited, to establish an organic will represent the entire organic grains processing facility. sector - producers, handlers, processors, input manufacturers, importers, exporters, retailers, certification bodies, provincial government - as required by the Organic Federation of Growing Opportunities - “Realizing the Canada/Fédération biologique du Benefits from the Local Food Economy” Canada.” March 25 – 26, 2008 • Holiday Inn Harbourview Dartmouth, NS Ms. Patterson expressed appreciation for the Department of Agriculture’s Do you want to sell more goods conference that will explore the solid support and continued within the local market? Are you many opportunities available to sell partnership in the development of the frustrated with the status quo? Do more of your goods within Nova Nova Scotia Organic Council. you have questions and can’t find Scotia. the answers? If you answered yes to any of these questions then you Register today as space is limited have to attend this conference! and the deadline is fast approaching. Cost is $125 (includes Listen to a panel of experienced meals). presenters. Learn from your colleagues. Link your ideas with For more information or to register others in the value chain. Sell for this event visit us online Local. Join us on March 25 and 26, www.gov.ns.ca/agri/bde or call 902- 2008 for a business development 893-6580.

2 Beyond Basic Nutrition: Healthy Functional Food Ingredients, Snacks, and Beverages from Nova Scotia Apples Erin MacPherson, NSAC

Eating an apple is a great way to get you with a balance of vitamins, this R and D initiative is unique; its Vitamin C and other nutrients, but minerals, dietary fiber, and natural design is based on carefully con- soon consumers may have new antioxidants. ducted market and business develop- apple-based snack and beverage ment research. “Dr. Rupasinghe has products to choose from. New Rupasinghe is Chair of the Tree Fruit put together an excellent multi- research at Nova Scotia Agricultural BioProduct Research Program at disciplinary team of agri-businesses College (NSAC) hopes to capture the NSAC, an established cooperative and research collaborators,” says health benefits of fruits and intro- and industry-led research program. It Erith. duce new healthy and convenient is supported by the Nova Scotia value-added food choices to the Fruit Growers’ Association Creating innovative products is consumer. This project recently (NSFGA) and four Annapolis Valley nothing new to Rupasinghe. In received $1.9 million from the companies, Apple Valley Foods Ltd, 2005, he and his team of researchers Atlantic Canada Opportunity Grand Pre Wines Ltd., J.W. Mason received the Agri-food Innovation Agency’s, Atlantic Innovation Fund. and Sons, and Noggins Corner Farm Award for introducing pre-packaged Ltd., who plan to commercialize the apple slices to the marketplace in Dr. Vasantha Rupasinghe, an resulting new value-added product Ontario. Introduced to the market- Assistant Professor at NSAC, is manufacturing technologies from place by McDonald’s Food Chain, leading this innovative project. The this research. this product is the result of a project will develop new ways to collaborative project co-ordinated by extract and preserve selected natural In addition to creating new food Dr. Rupasinghe when he was at the antioxidants from apples and apple products, the spin-off benefits from University of Guelph. processing waste. These products this research include enhancing the will be used to create enhanced economic value of Nova Scotia Dr. Rupasinghe’s research further healthy food products and ingredi- produced apples and increased solidifies NSAC’s position as a ents. employment for the rural-based tree leader in the innovative agricultural fruit industry. Dela Erith, Executive and life sciences research. Rupasinghe says these natural Director with the NSFGA, says that bioactive compounds are now known to be the principal components in fruits and vegetables that provide benefits beyond basic nutrition, for Nova Scotia Crop & Livestock Insurance Commission example, specific health benefits such as prevention of various cancers Production Insurance option and coverage level for the upcoming growing season. and other chronic human disorders. Application Deadlines 2008: Rupasinghe believes that introduc- Vegetable – March 14 Weather Plan for tion of healthy, but convenient foods, Potato – April 19 is one remedy for managing good Corn, Soybean – April 30 Forage health. Spring Grain – March 14 This plan provides insurance Weather Plan – April 30 against a loss in crops as a result of “Right now, over 10 million pounds designated perils related to weather. of apple processing by-products go All producers who hold an active contract of insurance in one or Forage acres intended for storage or into the waste as land fill in Nova pasture are eligible. Scotia,” says Rupasinghe. “We want more of the above plans will to turn this unique and valuable bio- receive a Coverage Quote form(s) For information on this or any of resource into healthy food and before the beginning of the crop our insurance plans, contact us at 1- various bio-products”. For example, year. This will give them an 800-565-6371 - Truro, or 902-679- the new antioxidant-enriched apple- opportunity to choose their price 6015 (6028) - Kentville. based functional beverages not only quench your thirst but also provide

3 Programs and Business Risk Management Division

2006 Canadian want to withdraw the money, AgriStability are coming soon to a Agricultural Income respond to the letter and a cheque community near you. Topics Stabilization (CAIS) will be sent within 30 to 60 days. important to your farm business will You do not need to make a deposit or be covered, including how the new Program open an account at a bank, credit programs can work for you and tips union or financial institution. for completing the 2007 harmonized Not all payments and processing for form. 2006 CAIS are complete. If you have The deadline to respond to the letter received your 2006 CAIS is June 30, 2008. Representatives will also be Calculation of Benefits (COB), available to meet individually with remember that you have 90 days If you did not receive a letter and you to discuss completing your 2007 from the date on the COB to make would like to apply, applications are harmonized form, to check over your adjustments and appeals to the CAIS available on the AgriInvest website 2007 harmonized form prior to administration. If you are still at www.agr.gc.ca/agriinvest under submission, provide tips and answer waiting for your calculation of Publications and forms, or by calling questions on any general program benefits you should contact the 1-866-367-8506. The deadline to information you may have. CAIS administration toll free at 1- apply is March 31, 2008. 866-367-8506. Appointments are limited and will AgriStability and be accepted on a “first come, first AgriStability Program AgriInvest – Producer and served” basis. To schedule an for 2007 Accountant Sessions appointment, please call Steve Tattrie, Programs and Business Risk The AgriStability FEE Deadline - Management (NSDA) at 902-893- April 30, 2008 Information sessions on the new 6374 or toll free 1-866-844-4276. suite of business risk management Most producers have already programs, including AgriInvest and received their enrolment notice for 2007 AgriStability. The deadline to pay the fee amount was December Information Sessions 31, 2007 or 30 days after the Truro Glengarry Hotel 25-Feb-08 7 - 9 p.m. enrolment notice was dated. If you Antigonish Maritime Inn 27-Feb-08 7 - 9 p.m. have not yet paid the fee you may Baddeck St. Michael's Parish 28-Feb-08 7 - 9 p.m. still participate, however, a late Bridgewater Auberge Wandlyn Inn 03-Mar-08 7 - 9 p.m. penalty charge of 20 per cent will be Yarmouth Rodd Colony Harbour Inn 04-Mar-08 6 - 8 p.m. added to the fee. Participants have Kentville Auberge Wandlyn Inn 06-Mar-08 7 - 9 p.m. until April 30, 2008 to pay the fee Amherst Auberge Wandlyn Inn 10-Mar-08 7 - 9 p.m. with penalty. One-on-One Appointments AgriInvest KickStart Truro Ag. office Harlow 25-26-Feb-08 8:30 - 4:30 The federal government is delivering Antigonish Charles Keating Millenium Centre 27-Feb-08 8:30 - 4:30 $600 million to kick start the new Mabou Mabou Fire Hall 28-Feb-08 8:30 - 4:30 AgriInvest Program. Most producers Bridgewater Auberge Wandlyn Inn 03-Mar-08 8:30 - 4:30 will have automatically received a Yarmouth Rodd Colony Harbour Inn 04-Mar-08 8:30 - 4:30 letter with information on how to Weymouth Ag. office 05-Mar-08 8:30 - 4:30 access these funds. Others have to Lawrencetown Annapolis Valley Exhibition 06-Mar-08 8:30 - 4:30 apply. Kentville Ag. office 07-Mar-08 8:30 - 4:30 Amherst Auberge Wandlyn Inn 10-Mar-08 8:30 - 4:30 If you received a letter, it is very important to respond to the letter by For more information on any of the above, contact the AgriStability or tearing off and mailing in the AgriInvest toll free line at 1-866-367-8506, or contact Steven Tattrie, information at the bottom. You have Programs and Business Risk Management (NSDA) at 902-893-6374 or toll the choice to withdraw the money or free 1-866-844-4276. leave it in a government fund. If you ...continued on next page 4 Continued from previous page... NSAC Continuing and Distance Education Programs Update: Take a look at the upcoming courses at NSAC through Continuing and Distance Education. Farm Investment Fund (FIF) project claiming deadline is March 1, Introductory Welding Course Integrated Pest Management for 2008 for the 2007-08 program year. February 18–20, 2008 Although currently closed, the Farm Farmers Investment Fund is expected to re- This course is for beginners or Thursday, February 21, 2008 open to applications in late spring of welders who would like more hands- This training session for farmers will this year. Keep your eye open for on practice. This course covers the focus on pesticide safety practices, dates and locations of FIF theory, techniques and shop practice pesticide performance and the effect presentations in your area this of arc-welding from project start to of water quality, developing an IPM spring. These sessions will highlight finish. strategy, new products and the program changes for the technologies. Eligible course upcoming program year. Garden Centre Training participants will be awarded five re- March 18–19, 2008 or March 25–26, certification points in the Nova Agri-Food Industry Development 2008 Scotia Pesticide Re-certification Program. Fund (AFIDF) claiming deadline is This two-day classroom based March 1, 2008 for the 2007-08 course, offered on campus at NSAC, program year. Please note: This is designed to increase the level of Pesticide Applicator Certification claiming deadline has changed knowledge and customer service in April 14–17, 2008 from last year. your retail garden centre to maximize This course teaches you the basic your sales and profits. Owners and principles and practices of safe use, The Strategic Infrastructure operators can choose to send any handling and storage of pesticides. It Investment Fund (SIIF) will be a number of employees with various is excellent preparation for those category within the AFIDF Program levels of experience. writing the Pesticide Applicator's again next year. Plan and prepare Examination. Course content ranges your proposals now, in preparation Integrated Pest Management for from integrated pest management for the upcoming program opening. Landscapers principles to doing your own The Agri-Food Industry Tuesday, February 19, 2008 calibration and calculations. Development Fund is expected to re- This training session for landscapers open to applications in late spring. For more information on courses or will focus on sustainable landscape programs, please contact: NSAC practices, the elements of an Additional information on the through Continuing and Distance integrated weed management programs offered can be accessed at Education, web: nsac.ca/cde approach, pesticide safety practices, our web site: phone : 902-893-6666 pesticide performance and water www.gov.ns.ca/agri/prm/. e-mail: [email protected] Questions? Contact Programs and quality, new products and Business Risk Management office at technologies. Eligible course Nova Scotia 902-893-6510 or toll free 1-866-844- participants will be awarded five re- Agricultural 4276. certification points in the Nova Scotia College Pesticide Re-certification Program. Continuing & 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]

5 AgraPoint Events

Feed Mill Workshop at NSAC February 20th Seventh PRCP On-Line Exam Available This workshop, done in partnership AgraPoint on Feed Mill Bio- with AgraPoint, the Atlantic Poultry Security; Brent Murray of AV AgraPoint has just posted the seventh Research Institute and the Nova Software on Computerized Feed in its series of home study exams Scotia Agricultural College, is Mills; and Ruurd Zijlstra from the made available on-line so producers tailored to anyone whose daily work University of Alberta on Using Bio- have access to earning points at involves commercial and on-farm fuel Bi-Products in Feed. For a home. This exam is on Record feed manufacturing or mixing, complete agenda and how to register Keeping and is available at supplying feed ingredients, grain visit www.extensioncentral.com to www.extensioncentral.com. You will handling and/or the sale of feeds and speak to someone about the work- need to complete the exam and send rations. The workshop is taking shop, please contact Alex Oderkirk at it to AgraPoint’s Agriculture place February 20 at the NSAC. 902-896-0277 or a.oderkirk@ Information Centre in Truro at the Registration is $100 + HST. agrapoint.ca. A portion of the address located on the exam. If you Speakers and topics include: Alan funding of this workshop was make the passing grade of 75 per cent Bell from Superior Agri-Systems provided by the Agri-Food Industry you will receive one-half a pesticide with sessions on Planning for a Feed Development Fund. Sponsors re-certification point. If you success- Mill Expansion, Trouble shooting include, Co-op Atlantic; Canadian fully complete every exam over the and New Feed Mill Technologies; Food Inspection Agency; Shurgain - five-year span of your pesticide Victor Melio of SGS on the Feed Nutreco Canada; DLC Inc. and license, you will achieve over half of Assure Program; Alex Oderkirk of Philbro. your re-certification requirements with the home-study series. For more information, contact the information Transition Cow Two-Hour Session in Port Hawksbury centre toll-free at 1-866-606-4636 or [email protected] . AgraPoint is pleased to host a two- long into lactation. There is no charge hour dairy nutrition session February (a light lunch will be provided) but 13 at the Port Hawksbury Civic please let us know of your intention “Telling Our Stories” Centre (Main Floor) from 12-2 p.m. to attend, so we can ensure accurate Marketing Workshop Lead by Dan Mosley, AgraPoint's numbers for lunch, by contacting Coming in April Dairy Nutritionist, this session will Amy Melmock, AgraPoint (Cape provide some simple ways farmers Breton) 902-625-1140 or A workshop geared toward small- can overcome potential upsets during [email protected] . Please scale producers who are currently the four weeks immediately before visit www.extensioncentral.com for involved in or are contemplating calving which can have an impact updates and any further information. becoming involved in direct sales, will want to attend the “Telling Our Stories” Marketing Workshop taking Orchard/Vineyard Sprayer Calibration Workshop place April 2 at the Crown Jewel Resort in Big Baddeck, Cape Breton. AgraPoint and the Nova Scotia University, where he directs the The workshop will run from 8:30 a.m. Department of Agriculture are pesticide application technology to 3 p.m. Lunch will be provided. hosting this hands-on session program and researches the use of Details are still being worked out for February 26 in the Cornwallis Room engineering solutions to provide the program but interactive sessions at the Kentville Agricultural Centre. safer spraying. focusing on how to add marketing The session will provide tree fruit value that reflects your business and grape growers with practical We are anticipating having two philosophy; ideas from producers information on sprayer calibration; sessions – a morning session from already successfully direct marketing; familiarity with where it fits in 8 a.m. to noon and an afternoon and overviews of government buy relation the OFFS program for trees session from 1 to 5 p.m. There is local and other programs to assist and vines; new sprayer technologies; limited seating for each session. producers are expected to be included. and calibration of the spray pattern. Registration is $20 (taxes included). Producers are asked to express their Guest speaker is Dr. Andrew For more information or to register, interest in attending by contacting Landers, a pesticide application call 902-678-7722. Amy Melmock, AgraPoint (Cape technology specialist at Cornell Breton) at 902-625-1140 or [email protected] . 6 NSAC Announces New International Business Workshop Degree Agricultural Riparian Health and NSAC is partnering with Dronten Dronten University of Applied Management University of Applied Sciences of Sciences is situated in Flevoland, in Strategy for The Netherlands to offer Dronten’s the centre of The Netherlands, with Atlantic Canada new Bachelor of Administration 1,200 students specializing in degree in International Food programs in Business Administration March 5 and 6, 2008 Business. Years one and three are and Agribusiness, Rural Future Inns, Moncton offered on the NSAC campus, with Development, Animal Production year two offered in The Netherlands, and Management, Horticulture and and year four available at either Arable Production. You can visit the Working towards a Riparian campus. This is an Honours degree university’s website at: Health Strategy for Atlantic offering two work terms, one in www.cah.nl/dpau Canada. The primary workshop North America and one in Europe. objectives are: This four year degree begins with a For more information on this degree, • to develop a Riparian Health ten day orientation in Iceland where please contact: Heather-Anne Grant, Management Strategy for students explore the Icelandic food M.Sc., P.Ag. Atlantic Canada and to increase industry. It is a unique program Coordinator, International Food the level of adoption of which will appeal to the student who Business Programme Department of Beneficial Riparian enjoys studying independently, has Business and Social Sciences, NSAC Management Practices an interest in business and likes to PO Box 550, Truro, NS B2N 5E3 travel. If you know of an above- Canada • to improve Riparian Health average academic student who is Email: [email protected] Management, and looking for adventure and recognizes Tel: 902-896-2232 • to better assess future the importance of a global education Fax: 902-897-0038 programming needs under the encourage them to contact NSAC for Growing Forward generation of more details on this limited enroll- programs. ment program. The registration form is available online at: www.ccse-swcc.nb.ca/ Cereal and Soybean Growers Tune-up Sessions For more information, contact: Yvette Cyr, Eastern Canada Soils March 4 Pt.Hawkesbury Civic Centre (1- 4 p.m., cereals only) and Water Conservation Centre March 4 Scotsburn Fire Hall (7 - 9:30 p.m., cereals only) Phone: 506-475-4040 March 6 Truro Glengarry Best Western Hotel (10 - 4 p.m., joint session with Truro Agromart Ltd.) March 6 Amherst Wandlyn Inn (7- 9:30 p.m., cereal and soybean session) March 7 Wolfville Old Orchard Inn (10 - 4 p.m joint session with Cavendish Agri Services Ltd.) Speakers: Dr. Claude Caldwell, NSAC; Doug MacDonald, NS Crop Development Institute; Pierre Lanoie, Monsanto Canada; Bill Thomas and Jack van Roestel, AgraPoint Topics: • Field selection (relating to cereal • Fertility (how much and timing) • Soybean inoculation, seeding and species, tillage and seedbed prep) • Weed control and pest management • Cereal species (six row versus two management For more information on these row, straw yields, varieties) • Disease and fungicide treatments sessions call Bill (902-896-0277) or • Seeding (planting dates, methods, • Harvest, storage, marketing (feed Jack (902-678-7722). depth of planting, seeding rates) mill perspective, DON levels, • Cereal development (how the crop grading, drying) grows) 7

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

Pesticide Certification Courses Hants Co. Farm ProAgri Consulting Ltd. is once The dates for certification courses Women’s Day again offering Pesticide Certification are: March 26 –27 – Kentville Hants Co. Farm Women’s Day will and Recertification courses in the Agricultural Centre be held on April 26 at the Three Mill area. If you are interested in The dates for recertification courses Plains Community Hall. For more attending one of these courses, are: March 28 – Kentville information and to register, contact contact ProAgri Consulting Ltd. at Agricultural Centre; April 2 – Catherine Manning at 902-798-4541. 902-798-2114. Kentville Agricultural Centre

Wetland Information Session The Nova Scotia Department of The session will touch briefly on Should you have any further Environment and Labour (NSDEL) wetland identification and habitats questions, you may contact the local Kentville office will be hosting a that are under the jurisdiction of Kentville District office at 902-679- wetland information session at the NSDEL. The process of altering 6086. An RSVP is appreciated, but Wandlyn Inn, Coldbrook on Tuesday, wetlands in the province will also be not necessary. February 19, at 1 p.m. discussed.

Local contractors, agriculture community, qualified persons/installers, surveyors, municipality representatives, realtors and other stakeholders from Kings and Annapolis counties are invited to attend the session.

Valley Region 4-H News

Hants County Royalty Night Upcoming Meetings: “A Step to the Future ”. There have Hants County Royalty Night will be Hants County: Wednesday, March 5; been lots of changes to the program held February 22 at the West Hants Monday, April 14; Monday, May 12 and location for the 2008 event! The Middle School. Royalty candidates new program will have a local tour Kings County: Tuesday, March 4; interviews will start at 6 p.m., while that will include Apple Berry Farm Monday, April 7; Monday May 5 members, leaders, family and friends Market. There will be sessions on; can play board games. Families are career choices, panel discussions on Chat-A-Rama asked to bring your board games and future choices and more!! There will The 2008 Chat-A-Rama is designed a plate of sandwiches or sweets. The also be teamwork activities and specifically for 4-H members who storm date for Royalty Night is competitions, outdoor skating and are 14 to 18 years of age as of February 29. other fun activities! The deadline for January 1, 2008, eager to learn new registration is February 29, 2008. things, meet new friends, and have Council Meetings fun. Chat-A-Rama will be held at the Kings County Council Meetings are Kings County Camp Rankin MARC in Dayspring, outside of held at the Kentville Agricultural Scholarship: Kings County junior Bridgewater, Lunenburg County, on Center at 7:30 p.m.; Hants Council 4-H members (9 - 12 years of age as March 10–11. The registration fee is Meetings are held at West Hants of January 1, 2008) can apply for the $30 and includes your workshop fee, Middle School in Brooklyn at 7 p.m. Camp Rankin Scholarship. The meals and accommodations. The scholarship covers the total cost of theme for the 2008 Chat-A-Rama is ...continued on next page

8 Continued from previous page... registration for the camper. All junior be a fun filled day with hands on and scrapbooking. The fee is $18 for members can apply, even if they project experience and lots of the day and a contribution to our have attended Camp Rankin opportunity to meet other members. potluck lunch. Contact you local previously, however, members who Members will have the opportunity 4-H office for an application (Note have received the scholarship in the to gain project specific skills in the deadline is February 25). past are not eligible. To apply, rabbit, cake decorating, photography members must fill out the Kings and communications to help with March Break Leaders’ Judging County 4-H Camp Rankin public speaking, and demonstrations. Workshop: Leaders in the Valley, Scholarship Application and Camp The fee is $5 for the day, which Western and South Shore Regions Rankin 2008 Registration Form includes your lunch. The deadline to are invited to a day workshop on available from your general leader or apply is February 29, 2008. March 14, 2008 at the Kentville 4-H office (902-679-6027). Agricultural Centre that will focus Applications are due March 15. March Break Leaders’ Craft on judging, project exhibiting, Workshop: 4-H Leaders are invited clerking and biosecurity. The fee is March Break Members’ to a craft workshop on March 13, $5 for the day, which includes your Workshop: 4-H members are invited 2008 in Bridgewater. The workshop lunch. Contact your local 4-H office to the Exploring Projects Member will include a full day on knitting or for an application (Deadline to apply Workshop that will be held March combine primitive painting, wooden is February 29). 12, 2008, in Lawrencetown. It will stump snowman, porcupine quill art

9

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

Tractor Safety Training Crop Improvement Events The Nova Scotia Tractor Safety Tractor Safety Training Program! Soil and Crop Improvement Training Program will be held March Association of Nova Scotia have To register contact Continuing and 29 and 30, 2008 at the Nova Scotia several events that may be of interest Distance Education Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Truro, Nova to producers in the area. While not all Agricultural College Scotia. of the details are confirmed as yet, Phone 902-893-6666, Fax 902-895- there should be lots of information This course is targeted, but not 5528, e-mail [email protected] here to peak your interest. limited to, youth aged 14-16. Topics such as safety, highway regulations, Space is limited, register early! Cereal and Soybean Growers Tune- pre-operation checks, safe starts and Deadline to apply is Friday, March 7, up – March 4, Port Hawksbury and stops and connecting and hauling 2008 Scotsburn; March 6 Stewiacke and various implements will be covered. Amherst; March 7 Wolfville. Any current tractor operator who Tuition - $110 holds a class 8 license or higher, and Speakers: Dr. Claude Caldwell, NSAC; Doug MacDonald, NSCDI; has at least 10 hours tractor driving Business Risk experience is welcome to attend. Pierre Lanoie, Monsanto Canada; Management Programs Bill Thomas and Jack van Roestel, At the end of the course, written and AgraPoint driving skills tests will be completed. AgriInvest and AgriStability Participants who obtain 70 per cent Information Sessions on the new suite Sprayer Information Day for on both the written and skills will of business risk management Vegetable, Cereal and Corn receive a certificate of achievement programs are coming to the Truro Growers – April 8, 2008 from 1 to 4 from NSAC. Glengarry Hotel February 25, 2008 p.m. at Wilmar Acres, Sheffield Mills from 7 to 9 p.m. Instructors Jeff Kay and Scott Read Sprayer Information Day for bring a wealth of experience and Topics important to your farm Blueberry, Cereal and Corn knowledge to the program. Their business will be covered, including Growers – April 9, 2008 from 10 to skills include tractor and farm how the new programs can work for 3 p.m. at the Banting Building, machinery operation; tractor and you; tips on how to complete the NSAC, Truro 2007 Harmonized form. machinery repair; welding; hydraulic Speakers: Ken Lingley, PEI Sprayer and pneumatic systems; and more. For more information on AgriInvest Consultant; Peter Burgess, AgraPoint A special thanks to the Nova Scotia and AgriStability, call 1-866-367- Pest Management Specialist; Rick Farm Health and Safety Committee 8506 or visit Hoeg, NSDA Sprayer Calibration for partially covering tuition costs for www.agr.gc.ca/agristability or Specialist www.agr.gc.ca/agriinvest the second pilot delivery of the NS Topics: What’s New in Application Technology?; Reducing drift with air induction nozzles; In cab variable spray rate adjustment technology; Halifax-East Hants Federation of Agriculture Boom levelers, GPS tracking to Equipment Rental 2008 Prices replace foam markers, nozzle selection etc.; Operator Safety and Equipment Cost of Rental Contact Person(s) Sprayer Calibration; Assessing Lime Spreader $4/ton (member) Allan Benjamin Sprayers Performance; Diagnostic, $4.50/ton (non-member) 902-758-2427 Trouble-shooting and Maintenance Land Leveler $100/day (member) Dave Cole, 902-384-2403 Organizers: $125/day (non-member) or John van de Riet AgraPoint (Jack 678-7722 or Bill 902-758-3874 896-0277) SCIANS Manager (Carol Versteeg Cow Lift $10 1st day + $5 every day after Corey Fraser 758-3530) (member) 902-758-2262 $15 1st day + $10 every day after (non-member) 8 Upcoming Events Upcoming 4-H Meetings Public Speaking and Demonstrations Rallies March 6–8, 2008: Seventh Annual Colchester County 4-H Leaders ACORN Organic Conference - Council Meetings: Cumberland County Rally – “Growing More Organic” February 25, March 31, and April 28 Saturday, March 29, Pugwash Memramcook, NB. For more at the Farm Loan Board (board District High School information please visit room), NSAC campus at 7 p.m. Colchester County Rally – http://www.oacc.info/ Saturday, April 5, Onslow Junior March 29, 2008: Nova Scotia Beef Colchester County Exhibition High School Producers annual meeting, Committee Meetings: Halifax County Rally – tentatively planned for Cox Institute February 11, March 17, and April 14 Saturday, April 5, St. Bridget’s NSAC. Contact Patton MacDonald at the Farm Loan Board (board Catholic Church for more information. room), NSAC campus at 7:30 p.m. Central Regional Rally – Saturday, April 19, Old Barns March 7-9, 2008: Farm Nova Scotia, Cumberland County 4-H Leaders Elementary School Expo for Small Farming, Exhibition Council and Exhibition Committee Park, Halifax, N.S. For details phone meetings: For further information on any of 1-888-454-7469 or e-mail February 5, March 4, and April 1, at these events or the 4-H program, [email protected]. the Shinimicas Fire Hall at 8 p.m. please contact: Jacqueline Hoyt at April 5, 2008: Maritime Beef Cattle 902-893-6586 or [email protected], Test Station’s Annual Breeding Stock Halifax County 4-H Leaders Council 4-H Specialist for Central Region Sale, 1 p.m., Nappan, N.S. For more Meetings: information phone Jim McInnis, 902- March 5 (Hardwoodlands), and April 664-4538, Bernadette Hoeg or Mark 2 (Forestry Complex, Middle Trueman, 902-661-2855. Musquodoboit) at 7 p.m.

National 4-H Awards Fertilizer Workshop Two 4-H members from the Central Region were chosen for 4-H Lise LeBlanc, Kevin Bekkers and Michael Kittilsen have been working on National awards. Congratulations a workshop for local Ag. producers. A fertilizer purchaser is coming in goes out to Caitlin Congdon of the from Ontario to discuss why fertilizer prices are increasing and what Glooscap Trail 4-H Club. Caitlin world events impact it. Although details are being finalized, we believe he will attend the very prestigious is going to be in the Antigonish area on Feb. 28 and in the Shubenacadie National 4-H Conference which is area on the Feb. 29. Anyone else interested in attending please contact held in Washington, DC and will Michael Kittilen at the agricultural office. travel from March 27 to April 3. As well, Shelby Cole of the Riverside 4- Is Your Fertilizer Program Keeping Up? H Club will attend the National St. Bridget’s Church, Shubenacadie Citizenship Seminar held in Ottawa 10:30-11:15 Where have all the Nutrients Gone? from March 28 to April 3. The rest 61,000 soil samples don’t lie! of the awards will be announced at Lise LeBlanc, LP Consulting 4-H weekend in May. 11:15-12:00 What’s with Fertilizer Prices, Anyway! Congratulations goes out to both Factors affecting Fertilizer Prices Casper Kaastra, Head girls and we wish them the best of Purchaser, Ontario Agronomy Company of Canada luck on their travels. 12:00-12:30 Lunch provided 12:30-1:15 Biggest Bang for Your Dollar - $ into Forage or Feed? Forage Quality and Profitability: A Ration Standpoint Daniel Scothorn, Dairy Nutrition Consultant 1:15-2:00 How can we get the Nutrients Back? Alternative Nutrient Sources, Lise LeBlanc, LP Consulting 2:00 Final Comments Tim Fisher, Truro Agromart

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

Pesticide Re-Certification and Certification Courses On Farm Food Safety ProAgri Consulting will be holding a a Pesticide Certification course in A Food Safety training session based Pesticide Re-Certification course in Sydney’s Civic Centre on May 1 on the Canadian Horticultural Council Sydney’s Civic Centre on April 9, and 2, 2008 for anyone wishing to “On Farm Food Safety” Manuals will 2008. This five-hour course prepare and write the test for the be presented on April 10 at the Civic provides five re-certification points Pesticide Applicator’s Licence. Centre in Sydney. ProAgri Consulting to current holders of a pesticide will be providing information on how applicators licence. For more information or to register, to use the manuals and complete the contact ProAgri Consulting at 902- various forms. Notice – Date Change 798-2114 or the NSDA office at ProAgri Consulting will also present 902-563-2000. For more information or to register for this session please contact Sarah or Traci at ProAgri Consulting at 902- Community Pastures 798-2114. Community Pastures will be starting up for this pasture season. Most pastures can always use additional cattle numbers to help keep the pastures viable operations. Also, as the summer continues you may find you need extra feed or pasture, consider placing cattle on a community pasture. The following are community pasture contacts for Cape Breton. Cape Mabou Anne Vandenheuvel 902-945-2039 The 4-H communities are starting Mira John MacPhee 902-727-2542 another year and are looking forward Maplebrook John P. MacDonald 902-756-2671 to an exciting and rewarding year Little Harbor (L’Ardoise) Arthur Sampson 902-587-2276 ahead. Many programs are looking at Cheticamp Island Eli Joe Chaisson 902-224-2417 helping our members and leaders to grow in the areas of agri-awareness, leadership, first aid, environmental Reminders: concerns, communications and project skills. These opportunities are Transition Cow Workshop – AgriInvest / AgriStability making the future a great place for Wednesday, February 13, 2008 ; Port Producer Appointments – 4-Her’s in the Cape Breton region. Hawksbury Civic Centre (12 – 2 p.m.) Thursday, February 28, 2008; This year’s logo and theme will Call Amy Melmock for more Mabou, Mabou Fire Hall (8:30 a.m. highlight the efforts of 4-H in the information or to register phone: 902- – 4:30 p.m.) province in 2008. 625-1140 Call Steve Tattrie to book an appointment, 902-893-6374 AgriInvest and AgriStability Small Steps, Great Distances Information Sessions – Thursday, 4-H Workshop Cereal Growers Tune-up Sessions February 28, 2008; Baddeck – 4-H junior members from all over St. Michael’s Parish (7 – 9 p.m.) – Tuesday, March 4, 2008; Port Hawksbury –Civic Centre (1- 4 Cape Breton will be having workshop Call Steve Tattrie for more sessions. Our first will be at the North information at 902-893-6374 p.m.) For more information contact Bill Thomas 902-896-0277 or Jack Sydney Exhibition grounds on Friday, vanRoestel 902-678-7722 Feb 29. Richmond County workshop to be held March 13 and Skye Glen workshop to be held on March 29. Hay for Sale? These workshops will leave a “lasting impression” on our junior members The Cape Breton Agricultural office is gathering a contact list of that will help them through their 4-H individuals who have or will have hay for sale this 2008 winter season. year. The workshops will focus on Each year the regional offices receive numerous calls from livestock environment, agri-awareness, owners who are looking to purchase hay and other feeds, if you would like communication, cooperation, to have your name added to the contact list or you are looking to purchase leadership and judging skills. The hay please call our office at 902-563-2000. ...continued on next page 8 Continued from previous page... provincial level? Wonder exactly and 4-H families are encouraged to what the judges are looking for and promote these events in their communi- workshops are open to 4-H members considering in making their placing? ties. Watch for these dates on your 4-H 9–13 year olds. In case of bad Then plan to attend a our Grand calendar. weather, cancellations will be aired Champion Judging Workshop session on our local radio stations. on Saturday, May 17 in Inverness 4-H Camp Rankin Spotlight County. There will be four non- livestock sessions held in the morning Bordering the Bras d’Or Lakes at Cape 4 -H Emergency First Aid – followed by four livestock sessions in George, eight miles from St. Peter’s, St. John Ambulance Day the afternoon. Applications will be Camp Rankin is situated on 60 acres of Workshop 2008 available soon at your local 4-H land. This is our 4-H camp that has held office. many 4-H memories over the years and Senior members and leaders are will into the future. Some features of the invited to participate in a St. John Rally Time camp are a large playing field, a Ambulance sponsored emergency campfire hearth, hiking trails, and a first aid course to be held at the Public Speaking is one of the most beach. Camp Rankin originated 35 Alexander Graham Bell museum on important skills 4-H members can years ago as a Centennial Project of Tuesday, March 11 from 9:30 a.m. – learn. It will serve them well in Richmond County 4-H Leaders’ 4:30 p.m. This is a great opportunity school, university, interviews, com- Council and is owned and operated by for introductory training, updating munity volunteer organizations and this group. Camp Rankin is the first 4-H your current first aid certification their careers. Throughout March and camp to be built in Atlantic Canada. and/or for our senior members April, 4-H members across the island 4-H members between the ages of 9–15 starting new employment. We will be will be improving their speaking skills spend six fun-filled days with fellow learning about selected subjects at club, county and regional rallies. 4-H’ers. There are a variety of educa- needed to sustain life and manage- Every year 4-H members get an tional activities for campers. In addi- ment at the scene of an injury. This is opportunity to work on their public tion, 4-H’ers are responsible for open to all registered 4-H leaders and speaking skills. At these events, housekeeping chores. Each day ends members at no charge. You do not members will do public speaking, with a chapel service by the campfire, have to be enrolled in the first aid demonstrations, poster competitions sing-song, and lunch. Camp activities project to participate. Parents are and host and hostess competitions. include sessions on drama, nature welcome to participate but there will 4-H members are divided into studies, 4-H trivia, canoeing, recreation be a discounted fee of $50. Space is categories based on age. Score sheets activities, arts and crafts and much limited – so apply today. and guidelines for participating more. Applications are available from members are available in the general your general leader, local 4-H office, or leader kit or on the NS 4-H website. online. Acceptance is on a first-come- 4-H Craft Co-op Workshop – This component of the 4-H program first-serve basis, so apply early! Spring 2008 promotes life-long communication Members can apply for any camp week 4-H members, leaders, parents, and skills and builds confidence. 4-H and application deadline is May 1, friends are invited to participate in the members compete at club, county, 2008. Let’s keep this 4-H tradition alive Spring Craft Co-op Workshop. regional and provincial levels. All and well in Cape Breton! Various craft projects will be offered events are open to the general public to give fresh ideas for members and leaders alike. There will be a light Dates to Mark on the Calendar lunch break offered for participants. Mar. 4/Apr. 1 Cape Breton Co. Council Meeting – Civic Center, 7:30 p.m. All registration fees must accompany March 15 Camp Rankin Job Opportunity – Deadline for applications the application. The deadline for March 31 E.B.I deadline submission is March 14. The April 1 Camp Rankin Scholarship – deadline program will be held April 5 at 9:30 April 5 Victoria Co. Rally – Baddeck Forks Hall a.m. All applications will be accepted April 5 Craft Co-op Workshop – WWI building Point Edward, 9:30 p.m. on a first-come basis. Applications April 12 Cape Breton Co. Rally – hosted by Rising Sun 4-H Club can be obtained from your local 4-H April 19 Cape Breton Regional Rally – Baddeck Academy, 10 a.m. office. TBA Inverness Co. Rally – hosted by Scotsville Lakers May 1 4-H Camp Rankin deadline applications May 9-10 4-H Weekend – NSAC, Truro – application due April 24 Grand Champion Judging May 15 Scotiabank Dairy Pre-registration forms due (attached to dairy newsletter) Workshop 2008 May 17 Grand Champion Judging Workshop – Inverness Co. Looking to learn more about judging Contact your local 4-H offices if you have any concerns or questions. Your 4-H and being more competitive at Specialists can be reached through the Mabou office at 902-945-2901 (Rhonda) or the Sydney office 902-563-2000 (Marina). 9

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

First Aid Course Upcoming courses: The Department of Agriculture in Re-certification, March 5, 2008 - Truro Certification, March 6-7, 2008 - Amherst Antigonish will be offering a first aid 9:30-3:30, Agri-Tech Park 9- 4, Nappan Research Station course for all farmers and farm Cost $75 (tax included) Cost $185 (tax and manual included) family members. This course will Please bring a calculator and a pencil. Please bring a calculator and a pencil. take place in Antigonish in March. You may also renew your first aid training at this time if you have a Upcoming 4-H Events: Antigonish card that has expired. Phone the March 11 7 p.m. 4-H Council Meeting 4-H office Agricultural office at 902-863-4705 March 11 6 – 7 p.m. New Leader Workshop 4-H office to register. March 29 9 a.m. Antigonish County Rally Ant. Education Cen. April 8 7 p.m. 4-H Council Meeting 4-H office Pesticide Certification April 8 8 p.m. 4-H Exhibition Com. Mtg. 4-H office The pesticide certification course is April 15 6 p.m. Ant/Guys/Pictou Rally Northumberland Sch. designed for participants who have never had a valid pesticide safety Upcoming 4-H Events: Pictou license or a person whose license has March 8 6 – 7:30 p.m. Free Swim Pictou Fisheries Pool expired. The course is done over two March 10 9:15 a.m. Junior Members Workshop West River Fire Hall days, with the exam written on the March 18 7 p.m. Council Meeting 4-H office second day. The re-certification March 28 5:30 p.m. Pictou County Rally Northumberland Sch. course is for members with a valid April 10 7 p.m. Sr. Mem. Judging Workshop Northumberland Sch. pesticide license which has not April 15 6 p.m. Regional Rally Northumberland Sch. expired. The course will give participants five continuing education points after completing a re-certification form on the day of the course. To register for upcoming courses call Sarah or Traci at 902- Looking for local markets to sell your produce? 798-2114 or your local agricultural office at 902-863-4705. Voices, a local community group would like to invite any producer working for a sustainable local food who might have an interest in system, is organizing a public forum participating in this program to this on February 16 from 9:30 – 1:30 public forum. We will also be p.m. One of purposes of this forum discussing the possibility of setting is to talk about the Good Food Box up community gardens. Following Program that was conducted from this the Feb. 16 forum, Voices would October to December 2007 in like to set up a meeting with Antigonish. This pilot program was interested producers to discuss organized by Voices and a group of supply of local produce. Please volunteers who obtained local contact Voices Co-chairs Colleen produce and packed between 25–38 Cameron at 902-863-2047; boxes every two weeks. Overall [email protected] or Christine there was great satisfaction with the Johnson at 902-867 3224; produce and program. This meeting [email protected] if you are on Feb. 16, will discuss expanding interested in learning more about the program from June until this initiative or if you would like to December. We anticipate a come to the forum. Please RSVP for significant number of individuals the forum as we will be serving a and families are interested in light lunch. participating in this program. Voices

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Annapolis, Digby, Yarmouth, Dennis Moerman, P.Ag. Regional News ~ and Shelburne Counties Agricultural Resource Coordinator

Leave Up Coming Events February 19 Wetlands Information Session - Wandlyn Inn Coldbrook I will be having surgery in mid- February 26 Orchard/Vineyard Sprayer Calibration Workshop - Cornwallis February and so will be out of the Room, Kentville Agricultural Centre office from February 18, 2008 until April 15 High Bush Blueberry Production Information Session - April 21, 2008. During this time if Cafeteria Universite Sainte-Anne, Church Point you require assistance, please April 15 Grape Production Information Session - Cafeteria Universite contact Andrew D. Cameron, Sainte-Anne, Church Point Manager of Regional Services. phone: 902-430-6371 e-mail: [email protected]

4-H Dates

February 13 Leaders Craft Workshop May 13 County Leaders Council (Bridgewater) – Western 9-10 Nova Scotia 4-H Weekend, Meeting – Annapolis Region Truro – Western Region & Awards Committee Meeting – 14 Leaders Judging Workshop Woodmen Annapolis (Kentville) – Western Region 10 4-H Night In Nova Scotia, 17 Ski Trip (storm date Feb. 24) 19 Leaders Council Meeting – Truro – Western Region – Annapolis Yarmouth 14 County Leaders Council 20 Leaders Council Meeting – 31 Public Speaking and Meeting – Annapolis Yarmouth Demonstrations, Club 13 Judging Clinic – Annapolis 23 First Aid Course - Annapolis Results – Yarmouth 16-18 Fluff n’ Buff Workshop – March April Western Region 1 Craft Workshop – Annapolis 5 County Rally – Annapolis 17 Judging Day – beef/dairy/ 10-11 Chat-a-Rama – Western 9 County Leaders Council goat/sheep- Annapolis Region Meeting – Annapolis 21 Leaders Council Meeting – 11 Food Handlers Course – 12 Rally – Yarmouth Annapolis Yarmouth 27 Judging Day – all other 12 County Leaders Council 16 Leaders Council Meeting – projects – Annapolis Meeting – Annapolis Yarmouth 31 Light Horse Clinic and 12 Exploring Projects Workshop 19 Regional Rally – Western Judging Day – Annapolis – Western Region Region

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