Printed Acrobat Reader Page #’s Page # Main Newsletter (for all regions) Amendments to Agricultural Marshland Conservation Act 1 2 New Vice President of Research, Extension and Outreach 1 2 AgriInvest and AgriStability 1 2 Programs Update 2 3 The Nova Scotia Agricultural Awareness Committee 3 4 Traceability Pilot at Millen Farms 4 5 Production Insurance 4 5 Advance Payments Program 5 6 You Can Make a Difference 5 6 Tractor Safety Certification 5 6 Dairy Focus 2010 Welcomes Cow Signals Experts 6 7 Pasture, Pellets and Fly Publications On-line 6 7 Nova Scotia to Host 2010 Atlantic Cranberry Management Course 6 7 Hayline Still Up and Running 6 7 Opportunities in the Evolution of Atlantic Agriculture 7 8 Grow Smart: Next Steps for Developing Farmers’ Markets and Vendor Businesses 7 8 Marketing 101 – What Every Rural Business Needs to Know: 8 9 4-H News: Nova Scotia Delegates To Attend National 4-H Conferences 8 9 Nova Scotia 4-H Members To Attend the Royal Winter Fair 9 10 Show Your 4-H Colours and Celebrate National 4-H Month 10 11 4-H Member Wins Young Speakers for Agriculture Competition 10 11

Custom Newsletter Pages (for individual regions) West Hants, Kings, Lunenburg and Queens counties 11 12 East Hants, Cumberland, Colchester and Halifax counties 11 13 Cape Breton, Victoria, Inverness and Richmond counties 11 15 Pictou, Antigonish, Inverness and Guysborough counties 11 17 October 2009 Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture Volume 10 No. 4

Amendments to Agricultural Marshland AgriInvest and Conservation Act AgriStability

Marshlands will be managed more marshland management,” said John AgriInvest and AgriStability are efficiently with amendments to the MacDonell, Minister of Agriculture. business risk management programs Agricultural Marshland Conservation “Marshlands are an important part of designed to help producers protect Act introduced on September 23. agriculture and the province's their income and manage risks such as landscape.” drought, flooding, low prices, and The act allows for the management of increased input costs. dykes and marshlands in the province Some of the changes include for agriculture. The proposed permitting marshland owners to form AgriInvest provides farmers with amendments were identified by the groups to collectively manage the flexible coverage for small income marshland administrator. marshland, allowing for construction, declines as well as support for repair and maintenance to protect, investments to mitigate risks or “While the changes to the Agricultural drain and improve marshlands. improve market income. For 2008, Marshland Conservation Act are farmers deposit money into an primarily administrative, they do The province took over management AgriInvest account and receive make sure the act is current and of marshlands from the federal matching government contributions. addresses our current needs for government in 1967. ...continued on next page

New Vice President of Research, Extension and Outreach

Dr. Richard Donald joins the Nova agri-food and bio-resource sectors, Dr. Donald brings a wealth of Scotia Agricultural College (NSAC) Dr. Donald is excited about his new experience to the role as previous as the new Vice President of role. “NSAC is uncovering the NSAC Research Fellow (1992-93) Research, Extension and Outreach. emerging challenges facing and as both a private and independent Dr. Donald will be working closely agriculture and the agri-food industry. industry consultant in the areas of with the research community at the We conduct research to address those environment and agronomy. He NSAC, as well as NSDA, AgraPoint challenges and transfer the results holds a BSc from Mount Allison, MSc and other provincial agriculture back to industry,” said Dr. Donald. He from University of Guelph and a PhD departments. is interested in promoting careers in from University of Saskatchewan. these areas and engaging the He lives in Halifax with his wife “I am pleased to welcome Dr. Donald consumer in agriculture. Jennifer and his two teenage to NSAC,” said John MacDonell, daughters. Minister of Agriculture. “He brings a For the past three years, Dr. Donald wealth of knowledge and experience has led a team in identifying to the position that will help focus international markets and developing NSAC's efforts on innovation, partnerships worldwide in his role as research and outreach for Nova Principal and Business Unit Director, Scotia's agriculture industry.” International at Jacques Whitford Limited in Halifax. Playing a primary role in cultivating NSAC’s research capacity for the Back issues of this newsletter are available at http://www.gov.ns.ca/agri/rs/fs/arcs/ 1 Continued from previous page... AgriStability 2010 Enrolment cannot receive your full 2009 Producers who did not participate in AgriStability payment until your Farmers still have time to participate 2009 AgriStability and wish to 2009 program year is complete. By in 2008 AgriInvest. The deadline to participate in 2010 must request a using the Interim Application, you can submit a form (which is harmonized New Participant package before estimate your 2009 income and with the AgriStability form) was April 30, 2010. To request an expenses to receive a portion of this September 30, 2009. Farmers can AgriStability New Participant payment early. The deadline to apply submit their 2008 AgriInvest form Package or for more information, visit for the interim is March 31, 2010. until December 31, 2009, but their the AgriStability website at matchable deposit will be reduced by www.agr.gc.ca/AgriStability or call To contact the AgriInvest or five per cent for each month or part of AgriStability toll-free at 1-866-367- AgriStability administration call 1- the month that the application is 8506. 866-367-8506 or visit the website at received after the September 30, 2009 www.agr.gc.ca/AgriStability or deadline. AgriStability 2009 Interim www.agr.gc.ca/AgriInvest Applications Are Available For more information on any of the Farmers can withdraw the funds from The Interim Application is available above, contact Steven Tattrie, their account at any time by calling for producers who would like to apply Programs and Business Risk Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada for an advance for the 2009 program Management (NSDA) at (902) 893- (AAFC) and requesting a withdrawal year. As a program participant, you 6374 or toll-free 1-866-844-4276. or sending in a withdrawal form by mail or fax.

To contact the AgriInvest administration call 1-866-367-8506 Programs Update or visit the website at www.agr.gc.ca/AgriInvest. The Farm Investment Fund (FIF) The Innovation Fund has received 59 closed to new applications as of applications for all categories to date. AgriStability is a margin-based September 4, 2009. As in every year, Categories B and C have closed and program that provides support when a program closure occurs when the the review committees have been farmer experiences larger farm budget has been fully allocated to scheduled to assess proposals for income losses. AgriStability covers eligible applicants. This year there Supporting the Innovation Capacity of declines of more than 15 per cent in a were approximately 600 successful Farmers and Innovation and farmer's average income from applicants, with over 2000 projects Commercialization of New previous years. approved. Opportunities for Agri-Based Products. Category A - Technology To participate in AgriStability, You are encouraged to claim projects Development has a final call for producers have to enroll in the as they are completed, which may proposals deadline of December 15, program, pay a fee, and submit an help you cash manage for multiple 2009 for research based project application. The deadline for approved projects. There is no limit to activity. producers to enroll in 2009 the amount of claims you may submit. AgriStability was April 30. Orchard and Vineyard The Agri-Food Industry Development Transition Program (OVTP) The deadline for farmers to submit Fund (AFIDF) program is currently their 2008 AgriStability form (which open, with over 90 applications to Applications are being accepted for is harmonized with the AgriInvest date. These include applications to the the 2009-10 program year. Currently form) without penalty was September Strategic Infrastructure Investment the funding for the OVTP program is 30, 2009. However, applications will Fund (SIIF) and the Direct Marketing fully committed, however, be accepted until December 31, 2009 Community Development Trust applications are being held in with penalty. (DMCDT) categories. The initial sequence based on the date they were Committee meeting to review these received. Letters of Agreement proposals has occurred. Applications (LOA) for orchard/vineyard removal are still being accepted for AFIDF will be awarded as funding becomes program categories A through E. available. For the 2009–10 program

...continued on next page 2 Continued from previous page... The Nova Scotia Agricultural Awareness Committee year, an application must be received Who are they and what do they do? agri-food industry. The committee and an on-site pre-inspection must be does this by taking a leadership role in conducted before work begins. The NS Agricultural Awareness development and implementation of Committee is a partnership of agricultural awareness initiatives for For project work approved for the government, industry and rural the public, as well as the school 2008-09 program year, please note organizations and has been in place system. the deadline to claim your orchard/ for over 18 years. Over that time the vineyard removal project may be intent has been to enhance knowledge, Representation on the committee has approaching. The claim must be understanding and appreciation of all evolved over time. The current received by the Programs and Nova Scotians for agriculture and the membership includes: Business Risk Management (PBRM) office by the date indicated in Condition 11 of your Letter of Representative Designation Agreement (LOA). This date stated Agricultural Awareness Coordinator Ex-officio in your LOA is one year from the date Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Government (federal) of your first pre-inspection. NS Department of Agriculture Government (provincial) Once the plant material (including - Resource Stewardship Branch stumps and roots) has been removed NS Agricultural College Government (provincial) from the site and destroyed, a claim - Recruitment Office can be submitted and post-inspection NS Department of Education Government (provincial) will follow. A producer can claim individual blocks as they are NS Department of Health Promotion and ProtectionGovernment (provincial) completed. Multiple claims are Agri-Business Representative Industry convenient and aid in cash flow. NS Federation of Agriculture - staff Industry NS Federation of Agriculture Industry The guidelines and application forms - Council of Leaders Representative for the Farm Investment Fund, Agri- Food Industry Development Fund, NS Federation of Agriculture - producer rep Industry and the Orchard and Vineyard NS Federation of Agriculture - producer rep Industry Transition program may be accessed Producer Representative Industry at the following web site: www.gov.ns.ca/agri/prm. Producer Representative Industry Questions? Contact Programs & Women’s Institutes of Nova Scotia Rural Organization Business Risk Management (PBRM) Young Farmers Forum Rural Organization office at (902) 893-6510 or toll-free 1-866-844-4276. How can you get involved? What if I want to join the committee? If you have ideas that you want to share with the committee, contact the Members of the committee meet Agricultural Awareness Coordinator about six times yearly - generally in at [email protected] or the Ag Truro or Halifax. Member terms are Education liaison at [email protected] for two years and are reviewed You can reach either through the annually in the fall. Contact the co- 4-H and Rural Organizations office at chairs if you want to be involved. (902) 893-6585.

To reach one of the committee members, check the website www.gov.ns.ca/agri/agaware for the names of current members.

3 Traceability Pilot at Millen Farms

and accuracy. Because every picker is be accounted for accurately and scanned in and out of a given job, they precisely using the VirtualOne are paid for exactly the time they software package. John Lewis, M.Sc., P.Ag., worked with no losses associated with Horticulturist, AgraPoint errors from pickers arriving late or Another empowering feature of the leaving early. Realizing this, pickers FreshQCTM system is their website, Food safety standards continue to rise are found to be more punctual. Also, (FreshQC.com) where the consumer and the produce industry is now the system ensures that each pack is has an opportunity to tell the grower pushing for “traceability” systems accounted for and paid for only once. how they felt about the produce they that identify problems quickly and Thus pickers are never paid for more purchased. This kind of direct accurately. In 2009, Curtis and Ann boxes than they have picked (which feedback is rare in today’s global Millen piloted the use of the can be a problem with manual marketplace and creates the kind of FreshQCTM traceability system on tracking systems). awareness growers need to maintain their farm in Great Village. or improve their produce quality. TM FreshQCTM is the only traceability A great strength of the FreshQC TM system that tracks individual packs of system is that it takes away the burden Finally, the FreshQC team is located TM produce all the way back to the picker of manual data collection. FreshQC in Florida. When asked about their in the field. This kind of accuracy is automates it using the digital scanners customer service Ann Millen extremely valuable when it is and accompanying VirtualOne indicated it was “unbelievable”. With necessary to track down a health or software package. The in-field data any new system there will be safety issue. With this system, collected with the scanners is questions and it is critically important problems can be isolated and resolved downloaded when desired and can be that the user has easy access to quickly, to the benefit of all parties readily manipulated into reports in competent information. involved. This project was funded short minutes. In addition to total through the Traceability Project under yields and costs, individual picking Cost-shared funding has been the Canada Nova Scotia Growing rates can be quickly monitored to available under the Agri-Food Forward Policy. assess picker productivity and Industry Development Program for performance. In fact, all farm jobs can producers wishing to undertake However, FreshQCTM is much more initiatives. than a traceability system, it is also a quality improvement system. Curtis insists “it will improve your produce Production Insurance quality”. By using in-field scanners that link individual pickers to the Application Deadlines essential in order to process any produce they harvest, there is no potential claims for payment based hiding from doing a poor job. A Raspberries - October 31 on reduced yields. Regardless of unique identifier on each pack Strawberries - November 14 whether a client is in a claim, a contains details about its harvest Blueberries - November 30 harvest yield report must be including, grower, field, picker, time Tree Fruit - November 30 completed and submitted to the of harvest, supervisor, crop, and more. Commission. These reports are Also, the scanners are used to time Yield Reporting: used to build a cropping history for individual pickers “in” and “out” of the next and subsequent cropping All Crop Insurance yield-based the field so that the productivity of seasons. Accurate and timely yield plans require reporting of the individual growers can be closely reporting ensures you receive the harvested yield within 30 days of monitored. The result is a greater best possible coverage for your farm harvest. Harvest yield report forms picker accountability. This ultimately that reflects your crop management are sent out to all clients prior to the results in improved work efficiency practices. and quality of the produce they harvest season. These reports are harvest.

Another attribute of the FreshQCTM system is improved payroll efficiency

4 Advance Payments Program Tractor Safety Certification Once again the Soil & Crop producers must agree to allow Improvement Association of Nova SCIANS to conduct a credit review. The Nova Scotia Tractor Safety Scotia (SCIANS) has applied to the This will be done by a third, unrelated Certification Program will be held in federal government to be party. An administration fee of 1.5 per Truro at NSAC on November 7 – 8. It administrators for the fall portion of cent of the total advance is charged for will also be held in Port Williams at the 2009/10 Advance Payments producers to participate in the VanOostrum’s Farm Equipment on Program (APP). The purpose of the program. Producers who are already November 14 – 15. program is to improve marketing involved in the spring portion of the opportunities for agricultural program and would like to continue in This course is targeted, but not limited products to eligible producers by the fall portion will be charged an to, youth aged 14-16. Topics such as extending to the producers an administration fee of 0.5 per cent of safety, highway regulations, pre- advance as a means to improve cash- the advance. All advances must be operation checks, safe starts and stops, flow. Any one person or any farm paid back by September 2010. If you connecting and hauling various business is limited to an advance of are interested in finding out more implements will be covered. $100,000 interest free. Producers about the program or if you would like repay the advance to the to add your name to the list to have an Any current tractor operator who Administrator as the agricultural application sent to you, please contact holds a class 8 license or higher, and product is sold and at the rate per unit Carol Versteeg (902) 758-3530 or e- has at least 10 hours tractor driving in effect at the time of repayment. The mail carol.versteeg @ns.sympatico.ca experience is welcome to attend. At crops proposed to be covered under the end of the course, written and the program this year are: wheat, hay, driving skills tests will be completed. rye, grain corn, oats, barley and Participants who obtain 70 per cent on soybeans. Producers must have these both the written and skills test will crops in storage and allow a crop receive a certificate of achievement inspection to be done by an agent from NSAC and are eligible to get a appointed by SCIANS. Also, condition 15 endorsement on their license.

Thank you to the Nova Scotia Farm Health and Safety Committee for partially covering tuition costs for the Tractor Safety Training Program! You Can Make a Difference Keep your eyes open for more information on the Tractor By serving on one of Nova Scotia’s Closing Date for applications: Certification course. adjudicative agencies, boards and November 9, 2009 commissions, you can play a vital role For more information visit: in the administration of government. For further information about the http://nsac.ca/cde or call (902) 893- Adjudicative agencies, boards, and adjudicative process, board position 6667 commissions serve various roles and profiles, current opportunities and diverse interests. Adjudicative boards how to apply, visit the website at have quasi-judicial functions. www.gov.ns.ca/exec_council/abc or contact the Executive Council office Opportunities presently available: at (902) 424-4877 or toll free 1-866- 206-6844. Farm Practices Board (2) Members Natural Products Marketing Council (2) Members

5 Dairy Focus 2010 Pasture, Pellets and Fly Publications On-line Welcomes Cow The Maritime Pasture Manual is this manual was provided by the Agri- Signals Experts available for download at Futures CARD Councils of Nova www.extensioncentral.com. The Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Old Orchard Inn, Greenwich, NS information and recommendations in Edward Island through a project March 24-25, 2010 the manual have been shown to be submitted by the Hants County Soil effective tools in this region for and Crop Improvement Association improving both animal and pasture and the Hants County Federation of productivity. The manual is written Agriculture in partnership with from the prospective that if you AgraPoint. Also available is the DAIRY FOCUS improve the productivity and health of booklet “Managing Grass for Fuel The Building Blocks of Success the pasture, then animal productivity Pellet Production in Nova Scotia” and will improve. The manual covers a new fly management fact sheets, Dairy Farmers of Nova Scotia is broad range of information including prepared in partnership with the Nova hosting Dairy Focus 2010 March 23- grazing management systems, pasture Scotia Department of Agriculture. All 25 at the Old Orchard Inn in fertility, fencing, drought three publications are available from Greenwich, Nova Scotia. The 2010 management, riparian management, the website listed above. For more theme is “The Building Blocks of as well as methods for extending the information, please call Sarah Wood Success”. Keynote speakers include grazing season. Funding to produce at 1-866-606-4636 (toll-free). Dr. Joep Driessen, from Holland, of the successful world-wide Cow Signals program. Other speakers are Dr. Limin Kung, Patrick Hoffman, Robert James, Jack Rodenburg and Atlantic Cranberry Daniel Scothorn. Support has been provided for this conference under the Management Course RAISING THE PRODUCTION BAR provincial Agri-Food Industry Learning and Working Together Development Fund. Information is March 10-12, 2010, Halifax posted on the conference website at www.dairyfocusconference.com Nova Scotia to Host 2010 Atlantic Cranberry Management Course

The Nova Scotia Cranberry Growers Association is hosting the Atlantic Cranberry Management Course, March 10-12 at the Westin in Halifax. Hayline Still Up This event is held every two years and is rotated among the four Atlantic provinces. The theme of the conference is "Raising the Production Bar: and Running Learning and Working Together". Speakers are being added to the program daily so visit www.atlanticcranberry.ca for information as it AgraPoint and the Nova Scotia becomes available. Department of Agriculture are still operating a toll-free hay and forage hotline and online listing. If you have hay or forage for sale or need some, please call 1-866-606-4636 (toll-free) or visit www.extensioncentral.com for information. This service is offered at no charge. Pricing for hay is set by the seller.

6 Opportunities in the Evolution of Atlantic Agriculture

CAFA provincial conferences are an make a difference for Canada’s farm opportunity to learn from some of the families and businesses by working to best in the field, as well as network ensure that the level of advice being with others who have expertise in offered is always improving. Please ways that will benefit you and your consider being a conference sponsor. clients. Contact CAFA for information – e-mail: [email protected] CAFA thanks our sponsors for the Annual Atlantic CAFA important role they play in helping Conference

November 12, 2009 Farm Credit Canada Crowne Plaza, MONCTON, NB Agriculture. It’s all we do. Financement agricole Canada Thursday, November 12 L’agriculture... notre raison d’être. 8 a.m.- 4:15 p.m. SPEAKERS: Grow Smart: Next Steps for Developing Gerald Post, Nova Scotia Dept. of Agriculture: Growing Forward Farmers’ Markets and Vendor Businesses Programs Steve Grady, Business Improvement October 28, Lunenburg Fire Hall Scaling Up to Smart Group: Scientific Research and 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. • increasing volume Experimental Development • multi-market sales Gary Morton, Morton Horticultural Do you want to… • cooperation • integrating other marketing Associates: How Value Adding is • increase the profitability of your options Changing the Definition of market business? Agriculture • explore selling at multiple locations The Remarkable Market Stall Jim Soldan, The Family Furrow / The or days? • stall display and sales tips Canadian Family Business Institute: • learn effective sales and display • customer service Succession/Farming with Family… techniques? • signage its more than a Tax Strategy! • use the web to interact with Sarah Allen, ACSBE: Effective customers? Building Relationships with Communication: Enhancing Client • connect with the right partners and Community Partners Relationships communities? Producer Panel: What farmers need • make sound decisions about new Web and New Media now from advisors and consultants facilities and expansion? • nsfarmersmarkets.ca/Market Bruce Roberts, Kelco Consulting • network with other vendors, Websites Ltd.: Evolving Agriculture and managers and board members? • Facebook/Twitter/YouTube Implications for Farm Business …then you should attend. Advisors Next Generation of Farmers’ Markets Grow Smart is for current and aspiring • managing growth CONTACT: www.cafanet.com farmers’ market vendors, market • business plans, feasibility studies or by phone: 1-877-474-2871 managers, boards, agencies and • possible funding sources organizations interested in supporting • potential pitfalls The Canadian Association of Farm farmers’ markets (such as Regional • community partners Advisors (CAFA) Inc. is a national Development Authorities and non-profit professional umbrella Municipalities). Pre-registration is required! Space is organization dedicated to assisting Sessions include: limited. For more information contact farm families and businesses by Claire Hanlon Smith at (902) 893- 2009 Season in Review increasing the skills and knowledge of 4491 or e-mail [email protected] • impact of the recession farm advisors and consultants. or • opportunities and challenges Jamey Coughlin at (902) 896-7088 or • how markets managed challenges e-mail [email protected]

7 Marketing 101 – What Every Rural Business Needs to Know:

At one time, farmers who mastered REGISTRATION FORM - Marketing Workshop production could count on achieving Wednesday, November 4, Port Hawksbury Civic Centre solid financial results. That is history. 9:45 a.m. - 4 p.m. Today, with production expertise a given, those who seek above-average Name: results must understand and manage other elements of their business Organization: equally well. One of the most Address: important of these is marketing. Email: Phone: For many people, the whole notion of marketing can be confusing, No. of People Attending: intimidating or downright scary. Payment Options ($25 per person): CFBMC aims to demystify marketing, providing farmers and Enclosed is a cheque (made payable to Department of Agriculture) in the rural entrepreneurs with practical amount of $ knowledge they can quickly Please charge (amount) $ to my: VISA MasterCard implement in their own businesses. Card Number: Expiry Date: If you are ready to be a better marketer and are looking for a common-sense Name on Visa/Mastercard: approach, the Marketing Workshop is I have special food requirements of: the place for you. In just a single day, you will learn: Please fax, email or mail the registration form by October 26, 2009 to the attention of: • the basics of marketing: what it is Catherine Plumridge and why it matters 303-320 Esplanade, Sydney, NS, B1P 7B9 • taking your own pulse: the Telephone: (902) 563-2000, Fax: (902) 563-3435 marketing self-assessment E-mail: [email protected] • how to choose and implement essential marketing tactics • how other agribusinesses have used these techniques to boost sales and profitability. Beyond this core curriculum, there is an opportunity to meet other farmers and rural entrepreneurs, share Nova Scotia Delegates To Attend experiences and learn together in a National 4-H Conferences helpful environment. When you head home, you will be better positioned to Nine 4-H members and seven 4-H responsible citizens and become connect marketing principles to your leaders from Nova Scotia have been committed leaders in their own situation, and write and manage selected to attend the National 4-H communities,” said Arthur Pick, your own marketing plan. Members and the National 4-H Manager, 4-H and Rural Wednesday, November 4, 2009 Leaders conferences in Toronto from Organizations. “National travel 9:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. November 4 – 8. Each year Nova awards are one aspect of the 4-H Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre Scotia selects and sponsors a group of program that contribute to their Shannon Studio 4-H members and leaders to attend personal success.” 606 Reeves St., Port Hawkesbury these two prestigious 4-H events Call Catherine Plumridge to register hosted by the Canadian 4-H Council. The National 4-H Members at (902) 563-2000 or e-mail Conference is a five-day leadership [email protected] “The Canadian 4-H program focuses and agricultural based program on leadership development for young involving 52 4-H members aged 16 - people. Through conferences such as this, 4-H members develop into ...continued on next page 8 Continued from previous page... Nova Scotia 4-H leaders attending Lunenburg Co.; Adrienne Smith, this conference are: Melissa Welch, Richmond Co.; Sharlene Carter Earle, 21 from across Canada and two from Digby Co.; Dianne Sinclair, Cumberland Co. and Marion Turner, the United Kingdom. The theme of Guysborough Co.; Sue Works, Cape Breton Co. this year’s conference is Broadening Cumberland Co.; Shirley Crouse, 4-H Horizons, reflecting the impact that individuals can make in their own lives and to their local and global community, as well as celebrating the Nova Scotia 4-H Members To Attend the 4-H movement. Royal Winter Fair Throughout the week, members will The dedicated work of the Royal have an opportunity to participate on Dairy Classic Committee and the tours to a variety of agri-food or other Royal Classic Canadian Junior Beef related businesses. They will share 4- Heifer Show Selections committee H information and meet new friends; AGRICULTURAL results in the 4-H members being able participate in a variety of discussion WINTER FAIR to attend the Royal Winter Fair and sessions of special interest; meet and compete in the 4-H cattle classes. The visit with 4-H council members/ Seventeen 4-H members will travel to Nova Scotia committee members representatives and program Toronto to compete in two prestigious obtain funding sponsorship and sponsors. They will also visit points of cattle shows at the Royal Agricultural organize this event on a provincial and interest in Toronto, including the Winter Fair in Toronto this November. national level. Annual financial Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and Participants were selected at the Nova support from major sponsors, experience live theater. Scotia 4-H Show on October 3 based producers, individuals and on the quality of their calf and/ or their businesses, provide the 4-H delegates Nova Scotia members who won travel showmanship skills. with this tremendous opportunity. awards are: Alicia Cox, Colchester Co.; Jennifer Bent, Annapolis Co.; Eight 4-H dairy members will While at the Royal, 4-H members will Emily Ripley, Cumberland Co.; participate in the Royal Dairy Classic compete in the 4-H showmanship and Jessica Rhodenizer, Lunenburg Co.; in November where they will compete conformation cattle classes, Jarvis Pierrard, Victoria Co.; Jenna against 4-H members from across participate in a provincial display Rippey, Hants Co.; Tracey Tate and Canada. The Nova Scotia participants contest and spend a day seeing the rest Julie Vermeer, Antigonish Co. attending the 4-H dairy show are of the events at the exhibition. Nicole MacKenzie, Colchester Co.; Forty -five outstanding volunteer 4-H Abby MacInnis, Antigonish Co.; The nine members representing Nova leaders from across Canada will Heather Sweeney, Yarmouth Co.; Scotia with their beef heifers at the attend the National 4-H Volunteer Andrew Eikelboom, Colchester Co., Royal Classic Canadian Junior Beef Leaders Conference, running Corey Charlton, Annapolis Co., Heifer Show are Megan Robertson, concurrently with the 4-H member Lindsay Macdonald and Lauren van Pictou Co.; Michael Spiddell, James conference. A strong 4-H program Zutphen, Inverness Co. MacDonald and Emily Parsons, depends on informed, up-to-date, and Annapolis Co.; Jennifer Dean, enthusiastic volunteer leaders. The Jeanette van der Linden, Antigonish Antigonish Co.; Crystal Siddal and program is designed to strengthen Co., was the winner of the Versteeg Kaitlyn McAloney, Cumberland Co.; leadership qualities, to better equip Memorial Award and will travel to Breagh Ross, Kings Co. and Chris leaders to creatively meet the needs of Toronto. This award is presented to a Holman, Halifax-East Hants Co. their 4-H members. It will also 4-H member based on a 50/ 50 split promote personal development in for the conformation of the calf and leaders, provide an opportunity for an their showmanship ability. The spare exchange of program ideas and is Jacob Works from Colchester Co. provide recognition for volunteer 4-H leaders through an enjoyable and educational experience.

9 Show Your 4-H Colours and Celebrate National 4-H Month

Breton Co. “ I have benefited to completion. Youth grow up with Show Your 4-H Colours! All 4-H endlessly on many different levels confidence in their own skills and members, volunteer leaders, parents, because of my involvement with 4-H. talents, and the caring and sharing of family, supporters and alumni across As a member, I have learned practical community spirit. 4-H members also Canada are encouraged to wear green skills such as sewing and crafts, life have the opportunity to travel on on November 4 to celebrate National skills including public speaking and national and international exchange 4-H Month. The month-long interpersonal skills. I’ve learned programs, participate in cutting-edge celebration provides an opportunity to about culture, heritage and politics by provincial and national conferences, showcase the many benefits of the 4- visiting my country’s capital and as well as apply for more than H program, which continues to help attending the National 4-H $100,000 in national scholarships. thousands of youth in Nova Scotia Citizenship Seminar. I’ve made many reach their full potential. friends and contacts along the way. We have so much to celebrate! A My early and long term involvement national survey of 4-H alumni In 4-H, the focus is on fun, friends, with 4-H had added many other conducted by Ispos Reid and and learning cool new skills ... like dimensions to my life.” commissioned by the Canadian 4-H creating crafts, building a website, Council, found that 88 percent said learning all about animals, building a 4-H members can chose from over 40 the key goals and objectives of 4-H are small engine, or making a prom dress! projects and still learn to do by doing. relevant to today’s youth and 85 Projects help develop technical and percent of former 4-H members would “I strongly believe that children record keeping skills in youth while recommend 4-H membership to should be enrolled in some sort of teaching them responsibility. They young people. group or organization. For me, I was take pride in doing their best, making lucky enough to have been enrolled in decisions and seeing projects through my local 4-H club,” said Amber Tattrie, an 18 year old 4-H member with the North Shore 4-H Club in Cumberland Co. “4-H gives a child 4-H Member Wins Young Speakers the ability to find their creativity, learn about different things like agriculture, for Agriculture Competition animals, group skills, commitment, among other things that some kids 4-H members had the opportunity to They also have to introduce and thank don’t have a chance to engage in.” speak about their enthusiasm for another speaker. Kristy’s speech was agriculture at the provincial Young entitled Farming the Future: Taking Young people from 9-21 years old can Speakers for Agriculture competition Agriculture into the 21st Century. be a member in 4-H. 4-H encourages during the Nova Scotia 4-H Show in leadership development, care and Bridgewater on October 2. Kristy 4-H members are encouraged to do responsibility for our resources and Waalderboos, Cumberland Co., won public speaking and demonstrations builds positive life skills to secure the the provincial competition and will along with their project work during future of rural communities. represent Nova Scotia 4-H at the the 4-H year. Each spring 4-H clubs, Originally the 4-H clubs consisted Canadian Young Speakers for counties and regions hold mainly of farm children and livestock Agriculture Competition at the Royal communications competitions. In an projects. Today the 4-H program still Agricultural Winter Fair in Ispos Reid survey, commissioned by has an agriculture base, but prides November. the Canadian 4-H Council, 74 per itself with moving with the times and cent of 4-H alumni said their developing projects to meet the needs The winner of the provincial experiences as a 4-H member was of modern youth. competition is sponsored by the Nova very beneficial in terms of Scotia 4-H Council and must be 16 - contributing to personal or career “Learn to do by doing. As a nine year 24 years of age as of January 1, 2009 experiences later in life and in 4-H member I can safely say that is a to enter the national contest. During particular they indicated that the 4-H fitting motto for 4-H,” said Erin the competition each contestant will program contributed to developing Thomson, an 18 year old 4-H member give a five to seven minute prepared public speaking and presentation with the Northside 4-H Club in Cape speech on one of five selected topics. skills.

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

Annapolis County Disposal of Used Upcoming Valley Federation Farm Sharps Region

Livestock Sales The Agriculture office 4-H Events in Kentville still has a Cattle sales at the Lawrencetown supply of sharps Tuesday October 13: Hants County Exhibition Grounds will be held on containers available Council Meeting 7 p.m. at the the following dates: October 24, at no cost for producers. Remember, Brooklyn Middle School November 7, 21. Sale of mis- sharps cannot be discarded in regular Tuesday October 13: Kings County cellaneous items will begin at 11 a.m. household garbage. Sharps should Council Meeting 7:30 p.m. Sale of livestock begins at 1 p.m. be collected on farms in rigid, Cornwallis Room at the Kentville Auctioneer will be Dean Manning. puncture resistant containers with Agriculture Centre tightly secured lids. November 13 – 14: Nova Scotia 4-H Council Annual Meeting, Debert Lunenburg Queens Hospitality Centre, Debert Federation of Valley Region 4-H Agriculture News

Cattle Sale Fall marks the beginning of another 4-H year! Clubs are now starting to The next Lunenburg Queen’s take registrations, so this is a great Federation of Agriculture cattle sale time to get involved with this will be held on Saturday, October 31 rewarding program. The Valley at the South Shore Exhibition region, consisting of Hants and Kings Grounds. Sale begins at 12:30. Counties, boasts a very strong 4-H program with 14 clubs that offer a wide range or livestock and life skills County Federation of projects. If you or someone you know is interested in joining the 4-H Agriculture Annual program, do not hesitate to get in General Meetings touch with your local 4-H office, or log on to the Nova Scotia 4-H Website to find out more information. Hants Co. Federation of Agriculture http://www.gov.ns.ca/agri/4h/ will hold their Annual General Meeting on October 28 at the Super 8 4-H clubs in communities all across in Windsor at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is Canada are gearing up for the month welcome. of November, which is National 4-H Month. Throughout the month, clubs will celebrate being apart of Canada’s most prominent youth organization with fund raisers, socials and fun events.

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

NSCC International Business Student Internships

“Good people are hard to find”! Is graduation. This program was • Newsletter/Website Development your business involved in importing, identified as one of Nova Scotia’s top • Trade Related Administrative exporting, trade-related services or ten most innovative programs last support part of the transportation sector? year. A lot can be accomplished in • Consulting and planning support Need an extra hand? Are you four months. These students are keen • Customer Service Support overworked on certain projects? Do and capable of working in almost any you have back burner projects that aspect of your company’s business. Interns are typically paid $ 5,000 for never seem to make it to the top of the Express your interest early, contact the four-month internship period, but pile? Are you planning for growth? information is provided below. we are open to any options that will fit Have you considered an NSCC your needs. student internship? Between January Typical Projects Include and April of 2010, nearly 30 job-ready • Customer Service Support Leroy Lowe, Faculty International students who are finishing the three- • Sales and Marketing Assistance Business year Advanced Diploma in the • Logistics Coordination and [email protected] (902) 893-5362 International Business Program will Support Barrie Reid, Faculty International be seeking a four-month internship to • Market Research Business complete their credit requirements for • Inside Sales [email protected] (902) 893-5352 Fonda Smyth, Faculty International Business [email protected] (902) 893- Do You Have the Proper Drivers Licence? 5358

If you are hauling any trailer (with a Upon completion of a successful test, truck or tractor) that has a weight over you will be given a form by the Driver 4500 kg, you need a Condition 15 Enhancement Officer. The form must Endorsement on your licence to be then taken back to an Access Nova legally drive on Nova Scotia roads. Scotia Center to be processed (to have These regulations apply to both class the Condition 15 put on your licence). 5 and class 3 licences. If you are There is a fee of $10.39 for this. Soil and Crop interested in obtaining your Condition 15 Endorsement there is an You must register with Michael first Improvement opportunity for you coming up at the and have a valid drivers licence to be Association NSAC. eligible for testing. Workshop When: November 10, 2009 There is an information session on Where: NSAC Farm November 5, 2009 which alows you to Holos ‘carbon credit potential on your Total Cost: $55.87 become familiar with equipment farm’ workshop October 24, How: There is a four-step process to being used on test day. If you are November 5 and November 14, obtain your Condition 15 interested in the session, let Michael presented by the Soil and Crop Endorsement. know so you can register for that event Improvement Association of Nova Call Michael Kittilsen to register at: as well. The equipment being used is a Scotia, at the Nova Scotia Agricultural (902) 893-3645 and book your test 1 Tonne GMC Sierra (2000) standard College from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Lunch time. truck and a Featherlite Flatdeck will be provided and mileage covered. Purchase a “Road Test Receipt” Trailer with a registered weight of For information, visit which costs $45.48. This receipt can 20,000 kg. www.scians.org, or contact Drucie also be purchased at an Access Nova Janes, SCIANS (902) 893-7724 or at: Scotia Center or on line. [email protected] http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/rmv/lice nce/

11 Halifax- East Hants News Upcoming 4-H Meetings Colchester County 4-H Leaders Council Meetings: Just a reminder to those that have used the HEHFA rental equipment (land October 26, November 23, at the Farm levelers, cow lift and lime spreader) that the fees and contacts for usage of the Loan board room NSAC campus at 7 equipment are as follows: p.m. Colchester County Exhibition Equipment Rental Cost Contact Information Committee Meetings: October 19, at the Farm Loan board Lime Spreader $4/ton (member) Allen Benjamin (902)758-2427 room, NSAC campus at 7:30 p.m. $4.50/ton (non-member) Cumberland County 4-H Leaders ______Council and Exhibition Committee Land Leveler $100 (member) Dave Cole (902)384-2403 meetings: or November 3 and December 1, at the $125 (non-member) John van de Riet (902)758-3874 Shinimicas Fire Hall at 8 p.m. ______Halifax-East Hants County 4-H Cow Lift $ 10 initial day Corey Fraser (902)758-2262 Leaders Council Meetings: + $5 every day after (member)

$15 initial day County Awards Nights $10 every day after (non-member) October 17 - Cumberland County awards night and banquet, Amherst Fees due can be mailed to Lindsay van de Riet, 234 Mill Village Road, Lion’s Den at 7 p.m. Shubenacadie, B0N 2H0. October 22 - Halifax-East Hants County awards night and banquet, The Shu-Mil 4-H club is looking for interested senior members in the REAL Campbell Hall in Shubenacadie at 7 SKILLS project. The Real Skills project would allow members to build their p.m. portfolio, with such certifications as first aid and food handling, volunteer/ job October 24 - Colchester County experience and how to construct a good resume. This would be on a county basis awards night and scholarship auction, including Riverside, Hardwoodlands and Shu-Mil. For more information Bible Hill Junior High at 7 p.m. contact your general leader. Provincial Events For further information on any of these events or the 4-H program, please contact: Jacqueline Hoyt, at (902) 893-6586 or [email protected], 4-H Specialist for Central Region.

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

The United Farmers Co-op on Keltic Disposal of Used Drive in Sydney River is now Hay for Sale? Farm Sharps accepting properly cleaned pesticide containers for recycling. You can drop The Cape Breton Agriculture office is off containers at the Co-op Country gathering a contact list of individuals The Agriculture offices who have or will have hay for sale this in Sydney and Mabou Store for recycling. Please see staff prior to dropping off containers. 2009-10 season. Each year the still have a supply regional office receives numerous of sharps contain- No five gallon buckets or plastic bags accepted. calls from livestock owners who are ers available at no cost for looking to purchase hay and other producers. Remember, sharps feed. If you would like to have your cannot be discarded in regular name added to the contact list, please household garbage. Sharps should be call our office at (902) 563-2000. collected on farms in rigid, puncture resistant containers with tightly secured lids. Drop in to pick up your containers during our regular Upcoming Food Handler Courses- 2009/2010 office hours or for more info contact (902) 563-2000. Oct. 22 Richmond Villa - St. Peter’s Oct. 28 Cape Breton University - Sydney Nov. 7 Donkin Fire Hall - Donkin Attention: Recycling Used Pesticide Nov. 25 Grand Lake Road Fire Dept. - Sydney - Auditorium Containers Dec. 16 Grand Lake Road Fire Dept. - Sydney - Auditorium Here’s What to Do: Jan. 20 Grand Lake Road Fire Dept. - Sydney - Auditorium Feb. 17 Grand Lake Road Fire Dept. - Sydney - Auditorium • Allow the formulation to drain Mar. 17 Grand Lake Road Fire Dept. - Sydney - Auditorium from the container for at least 30 Apr. 7 Grand Lake Road Fire Dept. - Sydney - Auditorium seconds. May 19 Grand Lake Road Fire Dept. - Sydney - Auditorium • Add at least 20 per cent of the contents of water to the container, Oct. 15 Northside Exhibition - 105 Regent St. - Main Hall replace lid, and rotate so that the Nov. 17 Northside Exhibition - 105 Regent St. - Main Hall interior of the container is rinsed. Dec. 15 Northside Exhibition - 105 Regent St. - Main Hall • Empty the rinse water into the Jan. 19 Northside Exhibition - 105 Regent St. - Main Hall spray tank and drain for 30 Feb. 23 Northside Exhibition - 105 Regent St. - Main Hall seconds. Mar. 23 Northside Exhibition - 105 Regent St. - Main Hall • Repeat the above procedure twice Apr. 20 Northside Exhibition - 105 Regent St. - Main Hall more. May 26 Northside Exhibition - 105 Regent St. - Main Hall • Render containers unuseable by Jun. 22 Northside Exhibition - 105 Regent St. - Main Hall puncturing. • Leave label on the container. If you wish to register, please contact Catherine at the NS Department of Agriculture office in Sydney at (902) 563-2000. Registration forms can be Containers that have been handled in downloaded and printed from this link: this way are technically suitable for http://www.gov.ns.ca/agri/foodsafety/pdfs/FoodHandlerSyd.pdf disposal.

11 4-H Fall Update 2009 4-H: Provincial Success for Cape Breton Region 4-H!

Annual 4-H Show -Bridgewater program to all children and adult from the additional visitors attending volunteers." the event.” 4-H members gathered in Bridgewater to participate in the 32nd The 4-H show includes technical Nova Scotia has the largest 4-H show annual Nova Scotia 4-H Show. The presentations, projects and in Canada for young people aged 9 to event was held at the South Shore competitions that help members 21. There are 2,400 4-H members, 850 Exhibition Grounds from Oct. 2- 4. become confident in their abilities and 4-H leaders and 85 4-H clubs in the "Through 4-H, young people learn acquire skills that will help them later province. Events featured this year technical, communication and in life. Each year, the 4-H show is held included livestock competitions and leadership skills that help them in different communities. The 2009 auctions, a fashion show, dog become confident, responsible event was hosted by the Lunenburg obedience and handling trials, tug of citizens and future leaders in their County 4-H Leader's Council. “It war, speaking competition, displays community," said John MacDonell, takes a team of dedicated volunteers to and selections for the Royal Minister of Agriculture. "I have organize a show of this size,” said Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto. watched my children grow and Arthur Pick, manager of 4-H and rural Winners from our region will be mature through the 4-H program as organizations. “A strong volunteer posted.. they to work in harmony with each base is a true testament to the health of other and I certainly recommend this a community. These towns benefit

National Members /Leaders Conference - Winners

Congratulations is sent to our national award members and leader attending the As the 4-H season winds down, we national conferences at the beginning of November. Our regional winners will would like to recognize the efforts of get an opportunity to attend the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and tour Toronto our 4-H leaders, members, parents and surrounding agricultural areas. Delegates attending are: and friends of 4-H. On behalf of myself and Rhonda, we would like to Jarvis Pierrard - Victoria Co. thank everyone for your energy and Marion Turner - Cape Breton Co. dedication this year. Your efforts are Adrienne Smith - Richmond Co. obvious in the quality of the members that our region is showcasing locally Important Dates and Notes and at a provincial level.

-Inverness sign up, Church service and banquet - October 18, Port Hood 10 a.m. If you have any questions or concerns, -Victoria Co. council meeting- October 20 - Peterson’s please feel free to contact the 4-H -Richmond Co. Banquet - October 25 office in Sydney at : -Cape Breton new leader training session - November 3 - 6 p.m. - Civic Center phone: (902) 563-2000 ; fax: -Cape Breton Co. meeting - November 3 - 7 p.m. at the Civic Centre (902) 563-3435; or the Mabou 4- -Annual meeting - November 13-14 at Debert H office at: phone (902) 945- -National Members Awards - Deadline for November 15 2901; fax (902) 945-2858. -November - National 4-H Month -Cape Breton annual meeting and banquet- Sunday Nov. 22 (Northside hosting) -4-H Registration forms- (annual registration) due in 4-H office for December 1 -Leaders Travel Award -deadline is December 15 - Truro 4-H office -4-H store named “The 4-H Trail Store”-price list on line -2010 theme- “Join the 4-H Trend in 2010" -Provincial Show Oct 1-3, 2010 -Truro Provincial Exhibition

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

Antigonish Film Festival Antigonish County Upcoming 4-H Dates The third Antigonish International The Real Dirt on Farmer John Film Festival is to be held October 23- 2006, USA; 83 minutes Council meeting – 25. See www.antigonishfilmfest.org Film maker: Taggart Siegel October 20, 7 p.m. for a complete list of details. These note this is a recent date change A third-generation American farmer, are exciting films that feature culture County awards – and real life, not big screen movies. John Peterson, is on a journey of success, tribulation, failure and October 25, 2 p.m., St. Andrews Festival pass (Access to all films), Community Hall Regular: $20; Students/Unwaged: $5 rebirth. This film takes us through his Admission by donation at the door for childhood in the 1950's to the farm- National 4-H Month – November crisis in the 1980's, culminating in his those without a festival pass, space Review NS resolutions and Council permitting. creation of a biodynamic, organic CSA farm serving 1500 families in the meeting to set 2010 dates – November 10, 7 p.m. Pass holders will have priority seating Chicago area with fresh produce. until five minutes prior to screening, Equal parts performance artist, NS Council annual meeting – at which point people without passes philosopher of the soil, and farmer, November 13 and 14, Truro will be allowed in by donation, space Peterson has been known to wear a feather boa with his overalls. This is Annual general meeting – permitting. Two films that will be November 17, 7 p.m. featured and may be of interest to our the story of the transformation of an local agricultural community are; individual and his community. It is the story of the terrors of non-conformity Island On the Edge in a traditional insular society with its Pictou County 4-H resistance to change and diversity, and 2008, Canada; 70 minutes the necessity for innovation and risk Upcoming Dates Director: Nick Versteeg; Co- in response to changing Producers: Don Genova and Jason circumstances. Awards: Audience Found Council meeting – October 29, Award, Slamdance Festival; Grand 7 p.m., 4-H office Food security is an issue that affects Jury Award, San Francisco everyone. This film looks at the International Film Festival. St. National 4-H Month – November history of food production on Francis Xavier University, Nicholson Church service – November 1 Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands Hall, Rm. 151, Sunday at 12:30 p.m. Location TBA and what would happen to residents’ food supply if the islands were Awards ceremony – November 10, suddenly cut off from the rest of the 7 p.m., WA MacLeod School world. It also chronicles the efforts of Annual meeting – November 18, several crusaders who grow crops, 7 p.m., Northumberland raise animals, and craft artisan food Pictou North Colchester Council meeting and set dates for products in the face of growing Annual General Meeting competition from imports and rising 2010 – November 26, 7 p.m., costs. These visionaries imagine a 4-H office October 21, 2009 at 7:30 p.m., at world in which eating and growing the Central West River Fire Hall. Leaders Christmas social – food is accessible to all and is part of a For more information you can December 6, 7 p.m., Mings in healthy community, economy, and contact Joe at (902) 657-3420 New Glasgow planet. The film shows why people need to get involved with supporting the local food movement. The film’s producers and B.C. Minister of Agriculture Stan Hagen are featured in the film. St.F.X.U. Nicholson Hall, Rm. 151, Sunday at 4:35 p.m.

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