The Haldimand Press - Farms: Harvest 2022

October 13,

at 3070 Highway 6 Jarvis, Ontario Windy Knoll Farms Ltd. Earl Yenssen & Frank Smith plus local farmer consignments.

Consisting of tractors, farm equipment, shop equipment & tools, garden tools, & miscellaneous items found on the farm. Auction opens on Friday, October 7 and closes on Thursday, October 13 with a soft close. Full listing and pictures will be posted on the Gerald Bowman website on October 1, 2022. Accepting Consignments of farm & industrial equipment or miscellaneous items from complete estates to single lots. CONSIGNMENTS WANTED. Equipment must be in the yard by Friday September 30, 2022.

Meet Harvest Hannah

While taking a break from her farm work, Hannah was so excited to check out our sixth annual Farms: Harvest edition.

She ended up hanging out on some of the pages, and can still be seen there now!

Can you find the 7 locations where Harvest Hannah is hiding?

to the sixth annual Farms : Harvest

Another summer gone by and another Farms: Harvest Edition has made its way to The Haldimand Press.

While the spring agricultural edition has been running longer, the harvest edition holds a special place for us as it was the first major section launched following our purchase of The Haldimand Press from previous publisher Jill Morison.

That first year putting out the harvest edition was a whirlwind. The section had high expectations because of the success seen in the previous spring editions. With some support already built up, this section came out of the gate at a gallop. The first edition had 20 pages. That’s more than we’d expect for a regular paper edition, meaning we had over double the work that week.

That remains true to this day, having grown to 24 pages in recent years thanks to the incredible support of our advertisers. More pages means more work of course, but it also means a greater opportunity to showcase the amazing agricultural community within our home.

Plus, once you get a couple farm editions under your belt, things really do get easier (even if it is a bit of a struggle to come up with something fresh for these introductions twice a year). What’s more, we get such great feedback on these editions, including winning some awards from our newspaper peers, that we know the extra work is well worth it.

After six years, we continue to have the same priorities for these editions: educating the public about the agriculture taking place all around them, and giving thanks to all of the people that keep that system running smoothly.

Inside you’ll find features on local farm operations and the amazing things they’re doing today, along with some general information about farming, livestock, and more. From new medicinal possibilites for cannabis, to increasing technology in the dairy industry, to working with others on preserving our natural world, our farmers and agricultural workers are making huge advancements right here in Haldimand.

Whether you’re new to the area or have lived here all your life, we hope you’ll enjoy the stories inside and that you’ll learn a little more about your agricultural neighbours.

If you work in an agricultural industry yourself, we hope you’ll enjoy the stories here as well, even if you might know most of the information already. We also hope you’ll take our gratitude to heart.

We know that, even with the advancements in science and technology available today and on their way tomorrow, keeping the world fed is a daunting task. From farmers to seed specialists to veterinarians to food processors, every step of the food chain comes with stressors and challenges. Long hours, losses to bad weather, labour struggles, dangerous working conditions ... there’s no end to the pressures.

So again, to make sure you heard us, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all your efforts. You are seen and appreciated. For those of you not in the field, if you ate today, be sure to thank a farmer.

Co-Publishers Kaitlyn Clark & Jillian Taylor

Jack Huitema Troy Pieterse

Celebrate local farms, food, and community at Ontario fairs this fall season

To The Haldimand Press

It’s not an official season in the calendar, but kicking off in mid-August and running through mid-October, it is fall fair season in Ontario.

While there are community fairs happening throughout the summer, the period between the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto (which ended September 5) and Thanksgiving is packed with community celebrations that feature a midway, carnival games, demolition derbies, vendors, food trucks, demonstrations — and a snapshot of the 200-plus agricultural commodities that are produced by Ontario farmers.

“Fall fairs are a fantastic peek into rural Ontario and the farms that feed us all,” says Drew Spoelstra, Vice-President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). “The rides and games and extravagant eats may provide colour, but at their heart the fair is a celebration of the local harvest and all the fruits, vegetables, grains, and meats that we enjoy on our tables.”

From mid-August to mid-October, there are more than 160 fall fairs taking place every weekend in communities across the province, hosted by members of the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies.

With increasing urban pressure on rural lands and challenging economic times impacting farms as much as they impact a city family, the OFA, through its Home Grown campaign, encourages people to explore a fall fair near them and help shine a light on the importance of Ontario famers and the preservation of productive farmland.

“At a time when Ontario is losing an average of 319 acres of farmland every day, it is more important than ever that we reconnect with our rural roots,” says Spoelstra. “Fall fairs are a great resource for learning about where our food comes from, and understanding why it is so important that we protect local food and farms forever.”

The local details: Here in Haldimand County, autumn just wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Caledonia Fair. This year’s fair marks a huge anniversary for the local event as it has reached its 150th milestone year. Mark your calendars for the Caledonia Fair, running from September 29-30 & October 1-2, 2022!

The Caledonia Fair Facebook page reads, “Every year at the fairgrounds on Highway 54 in Caledonia, we combine the traditions of the country fair – livestock shows, homecraft, food, and the midway – with continuous entertainment to make Caledonia Fair a perfect autumn outing for the entire family. From homemade pie to heavy horses – we have it all.”

Although the Dunnville Fair has been on a three-year hiatus, we hope it returns in 2023!

Just outside of Haldimand County, you will find the Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show, which runs October 4-10, 2022. There you will find food, fun, rides, games, music, and more.

About the Ontario Federation of Agriculture: OFA is the largest general farm organization in Ontario, representing 38,000 farm families across the province. As a dynamic farmer-led organization, the OFA works to represent and champion the interests of Ontario farmers through government relations, farm policy recommendations, research, lobby efforts, community representation, media relations, and more. For more information, visit ofa.on.ca.

About Home Grown: A public awareness initiative of OFA, Home Grown is a campaign to advocate for the importance of Ontario farms as a source of food, fuel, and fibre. Arable farmland is the most important natural resource, but Ontario is losing an average of 319 acres of farmland every day. It is the objective of Home Grown to help develop a workable plan to guide responsible development in Ontario, ensuring growth to provide housing and support local tax bases while also protecting productive farmland. Join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook @OntarioFarms. For more, visit homegrown.ofa.on.ca.

Craig R. Sitter | Karen Zandersons | Connie Jepson Sharon Thompson | Heather Wonder | Xander Geister

Kids horsing around at the 2019 Caledonia Fair

River’s Edge Haven of Hope Farm:

By Joanne Dorr The Haldimand Press

Follow the Grand River through Dunnville to where Haldimand Road 17 meets Highway 3 and you will come across River’s Edge Haven of Hope Farm. This large family farm features a livestock barn and a very distinct set of greenhouses. Owned and operated by the Feenstra family, this farm is the home of a one-on-one mentoring ministry that is supported by a unique greenhouse growing operation.

River’s Edge Haven of Hope Farm started their greenhouse growing by growing flowers. Around this time, Ed Feenstra took a trip to Holland where he toured farms to learn more about the Dutch style of farming. Feenstra explains, “The Dutch are known for their flowers and being on the cutting edge of automation and all those sorts of things.”

While in Holland, Feenstra learned about the “tabletop growing system.” This growing system cultivates plants in troughs placed in gutters and sitting at chest height. Feenstra adds, “We went through an area in Holland where they were growing strawberries and that system was already there. And I thought someday I would love to do that.”

Feenstra later sold his flower greenhouse to do just that. In 2021, River’s Edge Haven of Hope Farm built a nearly two-acre tabletop growing system and filled it with 50,000 day neutral strawberry plants. Feenstra explains day neutral strawberry plants “are not

sensitive to the length of day and can grow all year around.” This means strawberries can be harvested here from June through to October.

With one year of tabletop strawberry farming under their belt, Feenstra admits, “We had some challenges the first year and we tried to overcome them by cutting back quite dramatically and also we ended up trying some different products this year.”

In cutting back on strawberries Feenstra was able to diversify his crops and harvest a greater variety of produce. This year Feenstra’s tabletop growing system was successful in growing strawberries and a variety of vegetables and herbs such as tomatoes, lettuce, beans, peppers, beets, parsley, and cabbage. Feenstra advises, “Anything that isn’t a vine type plant does well in the raised beds.”

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A strawberry at River’s Edge Haven of Hope Farm, their first crop grown using the “tabletop” method.

“ We went through an area in Holland where ... that system was already there. And I thought someday I would love to do that.

Ed Feenstra, Owner, River’s Edge Haven of Hope Farm

Re-thinking farming from the ground up!

Feenstra says a critical factor is for staff to constantly monitor the growing conditions.

However, he is finding the shortage of labour to be one of his biggest challenges in 2022. He says it has been very difficult to recruit employees with the commitment and rigor required to work on a farm. Feenstra also observes that employees are hard to retain and that the current job market volatility makes staffing his farm temporary at best: “The demand for labour is huge and if it doesn’t suit them, they can go somewhere else.”

Despite these challenges, tabletop growing has provided various benefits compared to ground crops. This includes ease of picking, greater control of weeds, and suppressing the damage done by birds and ground pests. Feenstra adds, “We have little hoop houses over top that protect the berries and the plants from the rains. This also helps against some of the diseases that would otherwise

FarmingThe Original Growth Industry.

pop up with the wet and humid conditions.”

In addition to this, tabletop growing features “more controls in feeding the crop with the right nutrition they need. It (the plant) is in a small area where their roots are growing, but we have little drippers that feed them exactly what they require.”

River’s Edge Haven of Hope Farm partners with Richardson’s Farm and Market, with Feenstra providing Richardson’s with additional produce to sell at their market. This allows Feenstra to spend more time growing his farm and honing the craft of tabletop farming.

“We have done a fair bit of working with them,” says Feenstra. “They’re just a fantastic family farm to work with.”

Ultimately, the most satisfying part of his work is seeing people enjoy the produce he grows. Feenstra says, “I love being able to walk down the rows and see the produce growing and being able to provide people with great produce.”

To learn more about River’s Edge Haven of Hope Farm visit riversedge.ca.

Other crops grown at River’s Edge Farm include beets, tomatoes, and bell peppers. —Haldimand Press photos by Joanne Dorr.

Harvesting is a year-round job for local fruit and vegetable farmers

By Mike Renzella The Haldimand Press

Fall is around the corner following a long, hot, and relatively dry summer season. There are many things we associate with the fall, from pulling out your favourite hoodie, to heading out to the many fairs and events that come with the change in seasons. In a community so heavily steeped in agricultural tradition, fall is synonymous with one thing above all others: harvesting season.

However, despite the popular idea of the fall harvest, many farms, including Richardson’s Farm and Market in Dunnville, are continuously harvesting all year long: “In the fruit and vegetable industry we’re harvesting from spring to fall. Harvest season isn’t really a season, it’s an all-year job. There’s always something to pick, something to pack, and something to weed,” said James Richardson on the sprawling nature of his family farm’s operations.

This year’s first harvest started with maple syrup at the end of February, before moving into rhubarb in May, strawberries throughout the summer and fall, and a wide variety of other fruits and vegetables in between, including sweet corn, tomatoes, melon, cucumbers, fall raspberries, pumpkins, squash, zucchini, peppers, corn, and soybeans.

It’s a lot to keep up with, even on a good day.

“The fruit and vegetable industry is very different than if you’re talking to a grain farmer, where most things are mechanically harvested. In our industry, pretty much everything is hand-harvested,” said Richardson.

The harvesting process for a crop begins with a keen eye for detail, and knowing the right time to act: “Strawberries are pretty easy, you can see when they’re ripe and ready to go. Cantaloupes will be green, green, green in the patch and then – boom – they’ll be yellow. We know at that point they’re ripe. Cucumbers can be harvested anywhere from an inch long up to five or six inches,” explained Richardson.

He continued, “Tomatoes we like to pick when they’re red, but if we’re going to a grocery store or wholesaler with them, they might be pink. Gourds and pumpkins you want to harvest before they overripen. Sweet corn you want it where the kernel is tender, sweet, and juicy. They all have a different metric, but for us in the fruit and vegetable industry, it’s about getting it before they’re too old.”

He outlined the difference in his chosen industry compared to grain and commodity farmers, where soybeans and other crops can mature and be left standing in the field for weeks, if not months: “For us, things are more perishable, so you have to be sure you’re harvesting them at the peak of their ripeness.”

He said the number one challenge in getting the harvesting process right is having the right amount of labour at the right times of the year.

“We had about 28 people on the payroll last run – that doesn’t include my wife and I, but it includes six guys from Mexico.... They are the base of our workforce; they’re here from spring to fall…. These guys are awesome. They’re part of our family and we treat them as such. They are an integral part of our operation, and I would say that goes for most family operations that use migrant workers.”

Richardson said they can go into a field of corn and pick out those cobs that are ‘bang on’, adding, “It comes from experience.”

He made sure to also praise his farm’s 22 Canadian workers: “Some are students heading back to school, we’ve also got some young people that will be around in the fall, and we’ve got two girls who are full time with us right through the winter.”

Successfully growing such a wide variety of crops takes near constant vigilance, and a light foot to adapt to new challenges as they present themselves.

“This year, water was one of our biggest issues. It was so dry in June and July, we were working at getting the right amount of moisture to our crops. We were watering 24/7 almost – and then there’s watching for pests. Whether it’s weeds or insects, it’s about being on top of that,” said Richardson. He noted the fruit flies that go after strawberries and raspberries as an example. “We can use organic products or pesticides to control those, or else we have soft, unmarketable fruit. You have to pay attention to the details, which is easier if you’re doing one crop versus 18.”

Once harvested, the various fruits and vegetables are distributed in various ways, with Richardson’s hosting an on-farm market that sells fresh fruit and vegetables, in addition to a variety of in-house homemade dishes and baked goods. They are open year-round, offering fresh Ontario produce even in the coldest months of the year.

Additionally, fruit and veggie farmers typically make use of the various farmer’s markets in the area, and then a large portion of their crops go to wholesalers. For Richardson’s, this includes Cayuga and Hagersville Foodland, and a wholesaler in Niagara Falls that supplies certain No Frills and Food Basics in Niagara and Hamilton: “There’s no contracts with anyone. We aren’t guaranteed a price on any of our product; it’s all supply and demand.”

Once a crop has been fully harvested and distributed, it’s time to prep for next year. Richardson said that they are already tilling up the ground and planting a cover crop of tillage radishes on the field where they just harvested a crop of sweet corn. Richardson explained the methodology behind the use of cover crops.

“The main radish is about an inch or two in diameter, and the roots will be about a foot long, with the tap root going down into the soil up to four feet. That opens up that soil, aerates it, and lets water in through the winter so it’s ready to go next spring. We use buckwheat as a cover crop as well. It’s about keeping something green and the soil growing. We’ll take samples to see if the soil needs lime or extra nutrients, putting manure to increase the organic matter and soil health, which is a year-round process. We never really stop preparing the soil.”

A salute to the hard-working fruit and vegetable farmers of Haldimand County. You keep us fed, and you do it with style, serving up a bountiful selection of delicious, healthy food grown right in our own backyard. Here’s to a successful “harvesting season” for all.

Bottom three photos courtesy of Richardson’s Farm & Market.

Representative

Local farm growing new strain of CBG, involved in study with University of Guelph

CANNABIS TERM CHEAT SHEET

THC — Otherwise known as tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. It is the element that causes users to feel ‘high’.

CBD — Otherwise known as cannabidiol, is the second most active ingredient in cannabis. Unlike more THC-heavy strains, CBD is used in medical marijuana, and has shown to help with a variety of issues including anxiety, insomnia, chronic pains like arthritis, and addiction.

CBG — Otherwise known as cannabigerol, CBG is a non-intoxicating component in cannabis plants with many potential therapeutic benefits, such as antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The medical world has taken a rising interest in this particular cannabinoid for its pharmacological potential.

CBGa — Otherwise known as cannabigerolic acid, CBGa is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that serves as a precursor to THC, CBD, and other elements found in cannabis. It can be converted into CBG through the application of heat.

CBDa — Otherwise known as cannabidiolic acid, is the cannabinoid, that like CBGa, serves as a precursor to CBD; essentially it is a ‘raw’ form of the cannabinoid, and has shown potential as an oil used to treat inflammation.

By Mike Renzella The Haldimand Press

Lakeshore Farm Products, a Dunnville-based farm operation run by James Kaspersetz, a former senior environmental specialist for the Ministry of the Environment (MOE), is supplying the University of Guelph with samples of a new strain of cannabis (legally hemp, based on its zero THC content) for use in a series of studies on the strain.

The study intends to investigate the possibility of the strain being used as a replacement for opioids.

The Haldimand Press spoke with Kaspersetz about his operations, and why the new strain is raising so many eyebrows in the medical community.

Kaspersetz, who in addition to his work for the MOE previously ran Lake Erie Hops, a hops business that he says went out of business due to “a lack of demand,” said that he was looking for a reason to build a greenhouse structure and switching gears to cannabis gave him the perfect opportunity.

He spoke about the new, closely guarded strain, labelled CBG (cannabigerol): “This is a Health Canada approved variety with CSGA-certified seed production in Ottawa, Canada. This strain has been in development for several years and is the first ever release of this genetic.”

Typical strains of cannabis contain multiple components, with typical CBG levels of around 1%. According to Kaspersetz, his strain will contain roughly 14% CBG in the field, noting that they have received even higher CBG levels “under perfect conditions,” but that his crop hits that 14% level consistently across a large acreage, while retaining zero percent THC.

“We currently have 25,000 sq. ft. of indoor grow space and approximately 20 acres of outdoor grow space complete with sub-surface drip irrigation and will be expanding our greenhouse by another 50,000 sq. ft. next season and adding another 20 acres, for a combined plant grow of 40,000 plants.”

He touched on the process of harvesting his crop: “Timing is everything with growing cannabis; we only grow one crop per year so come May we have to be ready to germinate in a timely fashion.”

Kaspersetz continued, “Once the plants root, they have to be transplanted in order not to stunt their growth or stress out the plant. This variety is prone to stress and can easily change from a female bud producing plant to a male plant producing only seeds. So, timing is everything along with constant scouting for mites and aphids and other insects.”

“Seeing as the product falls under Health Canada, we can only use non-chemical insecticides and predatory insects like ladybugs. Every three weeks we release over 5,000 ladybugs which do a really great job at eating insects and their eggs. We also use diatomaceous earth, which feels like a fine powder but to insects it is razor sharp and once ingested tears them up internally. So, growing is a challenge and finding the right mix is critical.”

When asked for details about the Guelph study utilizing his strain, Kaspersetz said that it is still “hush hush,” as the strain is still relatively new: “The University of Guelph has been working on analytical methods for potency, pesticides, ash, and the loss of drying and terpenes. They intend on using this strain to be used as a surrogate matrix while developing various analytical methods to test for CBGa.”

As Kaspersetz’s strain contains no THC, it is technically considered hemp under Health Canada’s definition, opening it up to a number of different uses: “The fact that THC is non-existent has raised a lot of interesting alternative uses. Since this cannabinoid is the only strain with zero THC and first ever CBGa, its potential uses are limitless. From our research CBGa is the only strain which can be synthesised into a pure form of THC, which could be used as an opioid replacement.”

According to Health Canada information he provided, CBGa could potentially treat a number of ailments, including anxiety, depression, and other serotonin-related issues, and it can be used to inhibit inflammation, resulting in a “powerful overall anti-inflammatory impact. Compounds with broad anti-inflammatory action are frequently useful for treating inflammation, which may be at the root of a range of chronic health disorders.”

CBDa, another component in cannabis, also reduces inflammation by “blocking pro-inflammatory enzymes (COX-2) and instructing immune cells to reduce inflammation” through certain receptors. Certain inflammation-related illnesses like breast cancer could be affected by “decreasing excessive COX-2 activity.”

He called cannabis growth in Haldimand a “hot button issue,” presenting many challenges, as many residents have complained about issues related to smell, lighting, and noise from cannabis grow-ops in the county.

“Relationship building is key; growing tends to be the easy part,” said Kaspersetz. “I know many producers that still have products in storage and are unable to find key markets. We developed the business end first and then started to grow CBGa. The actual licensing of CBGa is fairly difficult, sometimes more difficult than getting the actual Health Canada licence.”

He continued, “One of the challenges in working with Haldimand County was a lack of understanding of the cannabinoid business, which is covered under the Canada Farm Products Act, which is Federal legislation. That being so, municipalities cannot pass bylaws that circumvent or prohibit farmers from growing this type of cannabis. Once they were aware of these facts, they quickly changed their course.

“At my farm we built the facility using the setbacks required by Health Canada as a precaution and of course to limit the odour from the facility. I am pleased to say that we have yet to have any odour complaints.”

He concluded, “My intent was to be a nice neighbour and respect people’s right to enjoyment while leading the way to a possible opioid replacement. I have been told that this strain of CBGa can be in-lab synthesized into high grade 40% THC, which could one day eliminate many of the harmful drugs we see today on our streets.”

James Kaspersetz poses with some of his CBG plants.

By Sheila Phibbs The Haldimand Press

An innovative conservation project has taken root in Haldimand as a row crop field in the Grand River valley flood plain has been converted into Tallgrass Prairie.

Tallgrass Prairie is a mix of native grasses and forbs that provide various benefits, including cleaner air, cleaner water, and increased biodiversity. With the support of ALUS (Alternative Land Use Services), a demonstration field has been planted. ALUS participants may graze/hay their Tallgrass Prairie fields after July 15 so that species-at-risk birds can fledge (develop their wing feathers for flight). The initiative is a partnership between the Haldimand Stewardship Council (HSC), ALUS Norfolk, the Haldimand Bird Observatory, Hobbitstee Wildlife Refuge, and the land owners, Bill and Elizabeth Hurkmans.

Elizabeth Hurkmans, who is an HSC board member, explains that their involvement began after the Haldimand Bird Observatory set up in a marshy, wooded area on a farm property the Hurkmans own along the river. Chief Bird Bander Rick Ludkin and others observed a number of species of birds both passing through and living in the area.

Ludkin also noticed a few grassland birds, some of which are becoming endangered, such as the bobolink and meadowlark. His was concerned by the lack of grassland for these birds, noting that so many fields, including six acres adjacent to the bird banding area, were growing soybeans. He suggested that the

field could be a grassland where grassland species could be observed.

The Hurkmans consulted with their daughter, a wetland and terrestrial biologist and co-owner of Natural Resource Solutions Inc. in Waterloo, the HSC, and Cathy Blott, Habitat Design and Stewardship. They discussed planting native tallgrass, as it can be harvested later in the season and, once established, become permanent and self-sustaining.

Further investigation revealed that seed was expensive. Blott and HSC’s Resource Manager Winona Drouin found several grants and funding opportunities. Funding partners for the project include Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA)/Haldimand County (Rural Water Quality Program), Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (Species at Risk and Farmers in Partnership), ALUS Norfolk and ALUS-National, Forests Ontario, Grasslands Ontario, and private supporters.

Hurkmans says that the funding covers the cost of seed and may help with other costs such as planting, professional advice, management, crop loss, etc. She says, “We needed expertise to plant this crop and our MPP put us in touch with ALUS in Norfolk County.”

Following discussions on the pros and cons of planting in a productive field with ALUS Norfolk and ALUS-National, it was determined to plant the native prairie grass in May 2022 because the project will act as a buffer to an adjacent watercourse.

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A field of tallgrass prairie was planted in Haldimand on May 31, 2022.

supports sustainability and biodiversity

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Stephanie Giles, ALUS Norfolk Program Coordinator, describes the native tallgrass prairie that was planted in Dunnville as “important habitat for species at risk, helps bolster local biodiversity, and contributes to improved water quality in local water bodies…. The native tallgrass prairie also allows for a reduction of nutrient input to the adjacent watercourse.”

Tallgrass prairies take up to three years to establish as the plant’s energy is focused on developing root systems. Giles says, “The landowners will spend the first three years managing the land to combat invasive competition and allow the tallgrass prairie to establish.”

Hurkmans shares, “We observe the field frequently and see the grasses slowly emerging. Controlling the weed plants means mowing them before they take over. Next year native wildflower plugs will be added. In time, the project will be a demonstration site for other land owners who are interested.”

Blott notes that HSC is trying to re-establish a buffered tributary system

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throughout Haldimand to capture, clean, and absorb storm water. She refers to the success in Norfolk County where they had to buffer their tributaries decades ago due to erosion of the sandy soil. She says, “I love Norfolk for this land management…. It is the best example of buffered tributaries in Ontario and it’s right next door.”

According to Alyssa Cousineau of ALUS, “This demonstration site shows that ALUS is invested in seeing the benefits of a local program come to Haldimand. The next step is to bring together the stakeholders in Haldimand to determine how ALUS can fit into Haldimand. Once this structure is determined, new producers will be welcomed to enroll in the program.”

Hurkmans shares this objective as she says, “Probably the most important outcome of this project is the possibility of establishing an ALUS community in Haldimand. ALUS helps farmers and ranchers build nature-based solutions on their land to sustain agriculture and biodiversity for the benefit of communities and future generations.”

For more information, visit alus.ca.

The tallgrass field at the Thompson Creek Eco Centre

This year’s weather a cause of concern for farmers

By Sheila Phibbs The Haldimand Press

HALDIMAND—Farming is a business that faces many challenges, but there are few greater than the weather. From a wet fall in 2021, to a wet June this year that was followed by a stretch of heat and humidity with little rain through the remainder of summer, the weather has once again been a cause of concern for farmers, their crops, and their livestock.

According to Allan Hedley of Hedley Seeds Ltd. in Canfield, corn and soybean crops that were planted in time in May have had a generally good growing season. However, he says, “Heavy rain in early June forced some later June plantings that struggled most of the summer.”

Hedley suggests that most of the county had good rainfalls later in July and throughout August, which helped with both corn cob and soybean pod development and fill. He acknowledges, “The exception is the north end of the county where rain has been scarce.”

Hedley notes that this year’s wheat harvest was short, with yields that were average to below average. This was caused by a wetter-than-normal fall in 2021 as it reduced the overall acreage of wheat. The shortened wheat harvest is felt not only by grain growers but by farmers with livestock. Bob Phibbs raises Limousin beef cattle in Hagersville. He says, “Straw is scarce due to the lack of wheat this year.”

This year’s first cut of hay was also affected by the weather as he says, “The wet spring killed out a lot of alfalfa. First cut wasn’t as plentiful as normal and not as good a quality for livestock.” According to Phibbs, other areas in the province have larger amounts of hay than what is in Haldimand this season. He was fortunate to have a surplus from last year as he says, “It’s always money in the bank if you have some bales left over.”

Phibbs speculates that corn may be what suffers this year due to the challenge of getting fertilizer combined with the dry weather. He says, “You won’t know until you harvest how good it will be. It’s a big investment with a lot of unknowns.”

He believes, however, that soybeans have tolerated the hot weather, noting that the fields are looking better than earlier in the summer. He says the beans got well-rooted in July and so far there haven’t been issues with spider mites or aphids.

As a cattleman, Phibbs is always aware of how the weather affects livestock. He says, “The drastic change in temperatures from day to day isn’t good for the crops or the cattle.” The hot, dry weather has meant a lack of pasture for half of the summer. Sorghum and grass hay are crop chopped as forage for the cows.

Monitoring the warm weather is also critical at Huitema Egg Farm in Dunnville as well. Charlotte Huitema shares that their hens are fed electrolytes when a heat wave is approaching. The electrolytes go through the water lines, allowing the

hens full access at all times.

Huitema says, “Electrolyte drinks do basically the same for poultry as they do for humans. They help to rehydrate and re-balance the cells and organs whenever chickens need it…. This helps to optimize production and health during hot weather while probiotics help beneficial bacteria grow quickly in the digestive tract and aid in digestive health.”

While it can be said that every year is different, when it comes to farming, the weather is always a factor. Generations of farmers have faced and endured the challenges of Mother Nature with unwavering resolve. It is that determination that ensures the seeds are sown, the livestock are tended to, the harvests are reaped, and we are all fed.

Farms and risk management: a look at coverage options

By Mike Renzella The Haldimand Press

One of the realities of farming is uncertainty. While the best farmers know how to prepare for nearly any situation – from soil management to pest control to harvesting techniques – even with all the prep in the world, things can still go wrong. Factors beyond a farmer’s control can have serious impacts on the bottom line at the end of the day.

To learn more about some of the risk programs available to farmers, The Haldimand Press reached out to the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), who works with Agricorp to deliver a Business Risk Management program designed to help farmers in such situations.

Shelley Kraft, Team Leader of Communications for Agricorp, touched on some of the ways the program is designed to help: “Our staff is ready to answer questions and can walk farmers through all their coverage options and the claims process based on each individual situation on their farm and in their fields, all the way through to harvest and claims…. Farmers who have damage and haven’t spoken with Agricorp yet should contact us as soon as possible.”

She laid out the different facets of the program, including:

AgriStability

This program provides whole farm coverage to help cover large declines in net income. If a farmer’s margin falls below 70% of their recent average, due to production loss, increased costs, or market conditions, AgriStability helps to offset the difference. AgriStability also includes an option for interim payments, which farmers can apply for if they are in financial distress and have completed six months of their fiscal year.

Production Insurance

This option covers production losses and yield reductions caused by factors beyond their control, including adverse weather, disease, pests, wildlife, or other uncontrollable natural perils. Depending on the plan, coverage is available on a total-yield or acreage-loss basis. Producers can choose the type and level of coverage that best meets their needs. Farmers have production loss coverage for when they harvest. Production loss claims are paid if their final yield falls below their guarantee.

Production Insurance

This insurance can also help cover unplanned costs during planting. The program includes built-in coverage for eligible producers to cover different situations

they could face during the planting season, including replanting coverage or unseeded acreage coverage.

Ontario’s Risk Management Program

RMP helps farmers manage risks beyond their control, like fluctuating costs and market prices. The program is available for the cattle, edible horticulture, grains and oilseeds, hog, sheep, and veal sectors.

AgriInvest

This is a savings account that producers can use to either cover small income declines or support other investments. Each year, producers can deposit up to 1% of their Allowable Net Sales into a bank account and receive a matching government contribution. Producers can withdraw funds at any time. In Ontario, AgriInvest is delivered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

“Farmers face multiple perils, such as extreme weather, from excessively dry to excessively wet, along with storms, including hail, freezing rain, and tornadoes. Insects, market fluctuations, and more…. The programs Agricorp delivers are designed to help,” said Kraft. “For example, Production Insurance covers specific insured perils, which include adverse weather, disease, and more. Farmers can find details in the contract of insurance, which is posted by crop at agricorp.com. The website also lists participant responsibilities under each program and shows how payments are triggered and calculated.”

Kraft pointed out however, that even farmers with program coverage remain responsible for following good farm management practices, as defined by OMAFRA.

For more information on some of the program options, and how to access them, visit agricorp.com, or visit Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show in Woodstock, where they will be attending from September 13-15.

“Farmers face multiple perils, such as extreme weather, from excessively dry to excessively wet, along with storms, including hail, freezing rain, and tornadoes…. The programs Agricorp delivers are designed to help.

Shelley Kraft, Team Leader of Communications at Agricorp

Above: A tractor from the 1900s, which required multiple people to operate and had a small coverage area – meaning many hours of labour to complete a field.

Below: A 30-foot hay mower that floats on the front and back of a tractor, reducing the weight on the field to reduce compaction and cutting 30 acres in just one hour.

DAIRY FARMING: THE FACTS

In Canada, 98% of dairy farms are family-owned and operated. Dairy farms can be found in each province with a large concentration (81%) located in Ontario and Quebec, 13% in the Western provinces, and 6% in the Atlantic provinces.

In 2020, Canada had 1.405 million dairy cattle across 10,095 farms. They produced 93.51 million hectolitres of milk.

Ontario specifically in 2020 had 3,367 farms with 319,700 cows. The average Canadian dairy farm now milks 73 cows.

According to Statistics Canada in 2016, the average farm had 73 pigs, 65 head of cattle, and 483 acres of cropland that year. In comparison in 1871, farms on average had 4 pigs, 7 cattle, and 33 acres of cropland.

Dairy farmers Wilco and with their children (l-r) Deklan,

By Sheila Phibbs The Haldimand Press

When Beechwood Holsteins earned the Century Award for 100 years of membership with Holstein Canada earlier this year, Murray Roulston thought of his grandfather, James Roulston, who would be “astounded” at the changes in dairy farming since he was milking cows in 1921.

Early in the 20th century, dairy farming relied greatly on manual labour. From milking and feeding cows to planting and harvesting crops, many jobs were done by hand. As the decades passed, manual labour was reduced with mechanisation, as cows could be milked more efficiently with milking machines.

Those machines were eventually connected to pipelines that transferred milk from the barn to the tank. Further innovations included milking parlours in which the cows came to be milked rather than the milkers being taken to the cows.

Today, modern milking has transitioned even more toward automation as robotic milking systems are becoming more commonplace.

Oneida dairy farmers Wilco and Danielle Vaarkamp installed a Lely robotic milking system nearly four years ago, with three robot units milking approximately 115 cows daily. There is also an automated calf feeder and two automatic ma-

Above: From milking cows to cleaning the barn, farming tasks were all manual once.

Below: Huge advancements in technology have automated many day-to-day tasks for farmers. This includes milking machines that cows can walk into when they’re ready, with computers that track the cow’s output and health.

nure cleaners, which are like vacuums for the barn.

The benefits of this automation, according to Wilco, include, “Half the labour and it’s better for the cows. The cows are getting milked when they want to be milked. The calves eat when they want to eat.”

The change has also freed up Wilco’s time. He explains, “I’m saving a good three hours a day so I can do other things. It’s not so much a 5 o’clock commitment.” The new system offers greater flexibility to focus on what needs to be done.

He suggests that the robotic technology has improved over the years, with dairy herds experiencing an increase in milk production and a decrease in the somatic cell count – an indicator of better milk quality and individual cow health. The robots are controlled by a computer that connects to Wilco’s cell phone. He says, “If there’s a problem, it calls me.”

He stresses the importance of that ‘round the clock’ cell phone communication, noting that you can’t shut your phone off.

Wilco admits to one downside – you need to be within one hour of the farm just in case something goes wrong. Going away for holidays means hiring someone familiar with the system to stay at the farm. He acknowledges, “I have to book them well ahead of time.”

The innovations implemented by the Vaarkamps are not limited to the milking, feeding, and cleaning in the barn. Cow comfort and herd health are enhanced by water beds in the stalls and rubberized floors, rather than concrete, which is better for the animals’ joints.

The Vaarkamps have also made advancements in harvesting hay with a triple mower that can cut 30 acres an hour. Wilco says, “It’s fast and does a nice job, too. I don’t mind sitting in a tractor, but I don’t want to all week long.”

The mower cuts 30 feet at a time and floats on the front and back of the tractor, which means less compaction. Harvesting is done as custom work, lessening the traffic on the fields. Wilco says, “We’re trying to get away from so much equipment on the fields. Less compaction is better for the land and re-growth of hay is better than it used to be.”

While the Vaarkamps’ methods are far different from those of 1921, some things remain the same.

Dairy farmers continue to work hard, using the resources available to them, to optimize efficiency. They care for their animals and are stewards of the land, not just for themselves but for future generations. Dairy farmers are committed to producing quality food products – not just to feed their own families – but to help feed the world around them.

Mayor Ken Hewitt Stewart Patterson John Metcalfe Dan Lawrence Tony Dalimonte Rob Shirton Bernie Corbett

and Danielle Vaarkamp Deklan, Sydney, Cody, and Jaylin.

How to manage animal waste

Animal waste contains many useful and recyclable components. However, if incorrectly stored, it can negatively impact soil, water, and air quality. Here are a couple of the most common animal waste management strategies.

DRY STACKING

Dry stacking animal waste involves piling solid manure and soiled livestock bedding in a covered storage bin with a concrete bottom. Farmers must ensure the pile is compacted, covered, and sealed to prevent manure nutrients from leaching into the soil. Dry-stacked manure can be treated with additives such as lime to help reduce unpleasant smells and deter pests.

COMPOSTING

Composting manure involves turning over a pile of animal waste several times until it breaks down into a stable organic form. Composted manure is dense in nutrients and free of parasites and weed seeds. Many farmers use

composted manure on field crops to improve the soil’s water-holding capacity and significantly reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers.

Farms can also hire a certified manure hauler to come and remove animal waste from their property. Haulers either take the manure to a centralized composting facility or spread it on other farmland.

4 little-known jobs in agriculture

The agriculture industry is indispensable, affecting both food supply and tourism. It presents various interesting job opportunities, some of which are less well-known. Here are four that might surprise you.

1. Mushroom growers are responsible for managing mushroom and compost production. They must also follow quality control procedures. Their schedule is variable and depends on the needs of the crop.

2. Orchard pruners trim apple trees in the summer and winter. They’re seasonal workers and don’t have any specific training. It’s possible to quickly

learn the ins and outs of pruning on the job with more experienced workers.

3. Big game and ratite (flightless bird) producers raise animals like bison, wild boar, deer, ostriches, emus, and rheas. They also manage production, administration, and marketing, among several other tasks.

4. Floriculture (flower farming) supervisors coordinate and verify the work done by horticultural workers. They also perform a variety of tasks to produce flowering and or namental plants.

The wonderful world of agriculture is full of possibilities.

8 interesting facts about fish farming

The global demand for fish is steadily increasing. Consequently, fish farming has become a massive industry around the world. Here are eight interesting facts about fish farms.

1. Over half of the fish consumed worldwide come from fish farms.

2. China is the largest producer of farmed seafood and produces over 60 million tonnes of farmed fish every year.

3. The most farmed species are carp, catfish, salmon, and tilapia.

4. The earliest evidence of fish farming dates to ancient China, Egypt, and Rome. However, the modern form of fish farming was introduced in Germany in 1733.

5. Another word for fish farming is aquaculture. The word aquaculture combines the Latin words ‘aqua’ and ‘cultura’, meaning water and agriculture.

6. Farmed fish often has a milder flavour than wild-caught fish.

7. There are three main fish farming systems: completely closed, flow-through, and open systems.

8. When done correctly, fish farming is a highly eco-friendly and sustainable way to raise fish. It helps create healthier habitats and rebuilds stocks of threatened and endangered species.

Did you know that many fish farms and hatcheries offer tours? Look for one near you to get a glimpse into this fascinating industry.

Leafcutter bees: the lesser known bee and its use in agriculture

You’ve heard of honeybees, but have you ever heard of leafcutter bees? As their name implies, leafcutter bees use cut leaf fragments to construct their nest cells. They’re docile and have a mild sting compared to honeybees and wasps.

Across North America, leafcutter bees are commonly used to help pollinate alfalfa crops. In fact, the use of leafcutter bees increases alfalfa seed production by more than 50%. They can also pollinate crops like birdsfoot trefoil, lowbush blueberries, and hybrid canola.

Leafcutter bees are better than honeybees at alfalfa pollination. Al-

falfa flowers have a tripping mechanism that requires bees to press their heads against the petal to access the nectar and pollinate the crop. The North American honeybees have evolved to insert their tongues between the petals and access the nectar without tripping the flower, thus preventing pollination. While native to northeastern Europe, leafcutter bees were introduced to North America in the 1930s. They were brought in to counter a drop in alfalfa seed production due to their unique pollinating method.

How cricket farming works

Reducing water consumption on farm

Water conservation has always been a concern for farmers in drought-prone regions. However, the worsening impacts of climate change have exacerbated the problem worldwide. Here are three ways to reduce water consumption on your farm.

1. Soil management

Did you know that crickets are a more sustainable source of protein than traditional livestock? Crickets are also packed with amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids.

Although popular in other parts of the world, cricket farming has only recently taken off in North America. Here’s how cricket farming works.

SETUP

All you need to start a cricket farm is a small space, a starter stock of about 500 crickets, and some basic equipment. Collect a couple 90-litre plastic totes, water dispensers, mosquito netting, perlite and potting soil, sponges, a misting bottle, a heat lamp, and a few empty cardboard egg cartons.

FEED

Crickets eat a wide variety of foods, including commercial cricket feed, fruit and vegetable scraps, as well as grains and nuts. Crickets also require a constant supply of water.

ENVIRONMENT

Crickets thrive in warm, moist environments. Therefore, if you can keep the temperature in the tote between 15 and 32 degrees Celsius, you can raise crickets pretty much anywhere, including a barn, shed, or backyard patio. Crickets must also be kept out of the wind and direct sun to prevent them from drying out.

HARVEST

Crickets mature in about two months. Once they reach this age, transfer them to a freezer before selling them. After each harvest, simply disinfect the tote and start the cycle again.

MARKET

The most common use for farmed crickets is bird, fish, and reptile feed. However, crickets can also be turned into human food like cricket chips, flour, and protein powder. Certain cuisines even eat crickets directly, usually either cooked in various spices or coated in chocolate as a sweet.

3 tips for improving pastureland

Properly managed pastureland produces high-quality forage and lengthens the grazing season, ultimately reducing feed costs. Here are three tips for improving the quality of your pastureland.

1. Rotate

To prevent overgrazing, create a rotational grazing scheme. For example, subdivide large pastures into smaller ones and rotate your animals through these fields. Ideally, you should let the grass reach 15 to 20 centimetres high before putting your animals out to graze. Remove them from the field when the grass gets down to eight or 10 centimetres.

2. Mow and harrow

It’s a good idea to mow your pasture after your animals have grazed. Mowing helps even out the grass height and encourages the plants to produce more leaves and fewer stems, resulting in a more palatable and hardy grass. It also helps control aggressive weeds like thistle.

You may want to consider harrowing your pasture after your animals have finished grazing. This helps break up manure piles and evenly distribute nutrients throughout the soil. Dispersing manure piles also helps control parasites and insects.

3. Fertilize

Like all plants, grass requires nutrients to grow. Therefore, it’s essential to take regular soil samples and follow fertilizer recommendations.

Think of pasture management as grass farming: the grass is the crop, and the animals harvest it.

Incorporating proper soil management techniques can drastically conserve water on your farm. For example, practicing zero tilling, using mulch, and planting cover crops can all help the soil retain more moisture.

2. Water recycling

Many parts of North America see a lot of rain in the springtime, which can cause significant water drainage from fields. A drainage water recycling system will capture this excess water in a pond or reservoir. The system will store it temporarily until it’s needed to water crops later in the growing season.

3. Drip irrigation

If you already irrigate your crops, you may want to consider investing in drip irrigation. These sys-

tems reduce runoff and evaporation, saving up to 80% more water than traditional spray systems. This type of watering allows moisture to penetrate deeply into the soil, leading to better growth.

Ultimately, incorporating water conservation into your agricultural practices is one of the most critical tools available to ensure a safe and reliable food supply.

North American crop yields remain volatile this year

Harvest seasons vary depending on the crop that was planted, but late summer and fall are busy times of year for farmers. And since the pandemic began, farmers have been working overtime to ensure that their goods make it to market on time.

The agricultural sector is affected by a number of variables, including the weather and pests. The pandemic is yet another of those variables, and consumers may want to know how the many factors that affect the agricultural sector could affect what is and isn’t in the grocery store in the months to come.

Wheat products

A variety of factors have affected the availability of wheat-based products.

Earlier this year, exceptional drought levels were seen in the midwest – areas with high production of wheat products. For 2021-22, Canadian durum supply decreased by 53% and wheat supply decreased 28% from 2020-21 due to a drop in production following the drought in western Canada. Moving forward, some dry conditions still persist in Alberta and Saskatchewan, and precipitation will be needed to help crop development. This may adversely affect the availability of breads, pastas, and other items made from wheat.

Things are not looking better regarding imported wheat. According to the International Grains Council, global durum production dropped 10% this year compared to the previous year, with smaller North American crops offsetting larger harvests in Mexico, the European Union, and North Africa.

Additionally, the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine is impacting the global wheat market. Russia, the United States, Canada, France, and Ukraine were the world’s top wheat exporters in 2020, according to Statista. The United Nations reported that 30 to 40% of the fall 2022 harvest in Ukraine is at risk, as farmers have been unable to plant crops. This could result in a potential loss of 19 to 34 million tons of exported wheat this year.

Grass seed

The abundance of spring rain in the Pacific Northwest, as well as areas of Minnesota and Canada, contributed to an expected above-average crop of grass seed. However, the upper midwest crop was forecasted to be a week to two weeks late due to cooler than average temperatures.

Despite an abundance, the Oregon Grass Seed Bargaining Association expected that growers will ask for higher prices on seed throughout 2022 for perennial ryegrass and tall fescue due to greater input costs and land rent increases, among other factors.

Corn products

The Canadian Government reports that for 202122, Canadian corn saw an increase in production, imports, and supply, along with greater industrial use, feed consumption, and export demand. Corn prices hit a record, likely due to concerns about global corn

supply prospects along with strong demand.

Later planting dates of corn across the United States corn belt led to stalled development of the crop in 2022. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Crop Watch anticipated near-average levels of corn on irrigated fields. Across rainfed locations, predictions are more uncertain due to weather throughout July and August (which had yet to be analyzed as of press time). While most sites are expected to see near-average corn crops, a high probability of below-average yield was expected for some areas. Despite more normalized yields, operating costs have climbed, including the costs of nitrogen fertilizer used in corn production, so store prices of corn, corn oil, and other corn products may remain high.

The agricultural sector continues to make strides to provide products people need. However, various factors have affected the cost and availability of a number of products.

5 of the best draft horse breeds

What does it mean to “make the rounds”?

The chores must be done once or twice a day depending on the type of farm and the animals raised.

People have relied on draft horses for hundreds of years to do hard labour, like plowing fields and hauling large loads.

Here are five of the best draft horse breeds for your farm.

1. Shires are one of the largest breeds of draft horses. They’re native to England and can reach nearly two metres from the ground to their shoulders. They’re known for being calm and laid back but extremely hard working.

2. Clydesdales are one of the most well-known species of draft horses. They’re native to Scotland and are intelligent and eager to please. Despite their large size, they can easily be handled by young children.

3. Percherons come from southeast Normandy in France. They’re prized for their elegant carriage and their robust, muscled bodies. In fact, Percherons are still widely used by farmers and loggers.

4. Belgians originated in the Brabant region of Belgium. They’re attentive horses and are easy to train. Their gentle disposition makes them great family pets.

5. Haflingers hail from Austria and are extremely mild-mannered horses. They’re smaller than most draft horses but are outgoing and cooperative.

Although draft horses are commonly known for strength, they’re also great for riding.

When you do your daily chores on the farm, you might say you’re “making the rounds.” These tasks often revolve around animal production. However, the duties performed depend on various factors, including the species and season. Here are the most common farm chores.

CHECKING THE HEALTH STATUS OF ANIMALS

Whether the farm focuses on dairy or meat production, checking the health status of the animals is very important. Animals that appear to be ill should immediately be examined by a veterinarian.

MILKING COWS

Automatic milking machines now dominate the dairy industry. However, some small farms continue to milk their cows by hand.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

The bedding must be replaced, and the trays that collect chicken and rabbit droppings must be emptied. Moreover, all the milking equipment must be washed and sanitized. This list goes on depending on the number of different animal species and the size of the farm.

DISTRIBUTING FOOD AND WATER

Farmers must bring their livestock new feed and supply them with fresh, clean water.

These chores give only a glimpse into what farmworkers must do to produce high-quality food you can enjoy all year. Supporting local farms is the best way to thank these men and women for their essential work.

Gay Lea Foundation funds new Hagersville Library display

LEONARD TOWNSEND ENTERPRISES

Haldimand Federation of Agriculture

IS HOSTING A MAYORAL ALL CANDIDATES DEBATE

When: Tuesday, October 18, 2022

Where: Haldimand Agricultural Centre 1084 Kohler Road, Cayuga, ON Time: Doors open at 7 p.m.

Debate: 7:30 - 9:30PM

Councillors running are welcome to attend and have a table set up for a meet and greet.

THE AUDIENCE CAN SUBMIT WRITTEN QUESTIONS THAT EVENING OR BY EMAIL ANYTIME PRIOR TO THE MEETING: HALDIMANDFEDERATION@GMAIL.COM

ALL REGISTERED CANDIDATES HAVE BEEN INVITED TO PARTICIPATE. ALL ARE WELCOME. QUESTIONS WILL BE MAINLY AGRICULTURE FOCUSED.

By Sheila Phibbs The Haldimand Press

While agriculture businesses generally provide products and services to farmers and farm related clients, they are also in the practice of helping the broader community. A recent $9,000 grant from the Gay Lea Foundation toward the new Hagersville Library and Active Living Centre will help reflect the heritage and value of agriculture to the community.

Paul Diette, Haldimand Library CEO, states, “The Haldimand County Public Library is extremely grateful for the Gay Lea Foundation’s generous grant…. The funds will be used to add enhanced elements that showcase the community’s cultural heritage, including its agricultural past, and house innovative collections that speak to residents’ unique interests and reflect the local economy.”

Exhibit units will highlight local farming artifacts and new works by individuals representing the future of agriculture in Hagersville. Diette adds, “A custom-built seed collection display unit will encourage all residents to learn about where food comes from and how crops develop by ‘taking and leaving’ a variety of seeds.”

According to Diette, similar smallscale pilot seed library programs were launched in the spring of 2022 at the Dunnville and Jarvis branches and proved very successful. He says, “We’re confident a larger-scale, well displayed seed collection in Hagersville will also prove of interest and value to the community.”

Tony Dalimonte, Councillor for Ward 4, which includes Hagersville, notes that community feedback on the new Hagersville Library and Active Living Centre has been very positive. He says, “I’m extremely pleased the Gay Lea Foundation has chosen to support this project. This helps the fundraising committee kick off the public fundraising component, which is really important.”

This is just one example of how a Gay Lea Foundation grant can benefit a community. The foundation website states that it is “dedicated to support-

ing education, poverty relief, co-operative development, and community wellbeing projects in communities where our members live, work, and play – and in developing countries around the world.”

Janet Ringelberg, Chairperson of the Gay Lea Foundation, is a dairy farmer in nearby Wentworth County. She explains that Gay Lea Foods is a farmer owned co-operative; approximately 1,400 dairy farmers/producer members from Ontario and Manitoba own Gay Lea Foods.

Ringelberg says, “Hewitt’s is a big part of Hagersville. We like to make a difference in the communities where we have plants, farmer members. It’s a way of giving back to the community.”

Hagersville dairy farmer Heather Peart is proud to be a part of the Gay Lea Food Co-operative as a producer member and a delegate. She says, “Gay Lea is processing locally produced milk and serving it back to the community as delicious Hewitt’s products.”

Peart has been a contributor to fundraising auctions for the Gay Lea Foundation, donating homemade pies and handcrafted quilts. She is excited that the Hagersville Library is receiving the grant to go toward an agricultural display. She shares, “The library has been near to my heart since story time, March break camps, and getting books to help with homework before Google arrived!”

Ringelberg describes the work of the Foundation as “the cooperative spirit of giving back to the community both at home and overseas.”

Since forming in 2014, it has provided $2 million to more than 100 registered Canadian Charities doing important development work in Canada, Haiti, Central America, Asia, and Africa.

In accepting the grant, Diette concludes, “The Gay Lea Foundation grant will most certainly assist the Library in its quest to provide residents with educational and learning opportunities and contribute to the community’s cultural and economic wellbeing.”

For more information on the Gay Lea Foundation, visit gaylea.com/foundation.

HAGERSVILLE—A $9,000 grant from the Gay Lea Foundation was presented on August 25, 2022 at the Hagersville Library in front of the collection of Hagersville artifacts. The grant will help enhance and expand exhibits and displays in the new library. Pictured (l-r): Tony Dalimonte, Ward 4 Councillor; Paul Diette, Haldimand Library CEO; Janet Ringelberg, Gay Lea Foundation Chairperson; Heather Peart, Hagersville dairy farmer and Gay Lea producer member and delegate. —Haldimand Press photo by Sheila Phibbs.

What’s the difference between straw and hay?

If you’re not closely involved in agriculture, you may be among the many people who think straw and hay are the same thing. In reality, the two are very different materials that serve distinct purposes.

• Hay is made from the stems, leaves, and seed heads of fresh grasses. The plant is still green and nutritious when harvested, making it a good food source for animals. Hay can also be used as mulch, as it adds nutrients to the soil and aids in moisture retention.

• Straw is the stalk that remains after a grain crop has been harvested. It’s dry and typically

hollow; in fact, it’s the ancestor to the modern drinking straw. Farmers can work the stems into the earth to enrich the soil or harvest the stems for other applications. Like hay, straw has nutrients that can benefit animals. However, because it’s difficult for animals to digest, straw is more often used as bedding than food. It’s also commonly used in other industries, such as biofuel, construction, and handicraft manufacturing. Now that you know the difference between the two, you’ll never mix up hay and straw again.

How will climate change impact agriculture?

Harvest quality has always been closely linked to climate conditions. Therefore, there’s no doubt that global climate change will significantly affect agricultural production in the coming decades. Here are a few things to watch for.

CROP MOVEMENT

It’s predicted that warm regions will face increasing incidences of drought and heatwaves that will ruin crops. Conversely, cold areas are expected to benefit from increased productivity by introducing new crops that were previously impossible to grow. This will result in a migration of crop production. Rising sea levels may also contribute to this movement, as flooding will increasingly affect coastal areas, causing crop destruction and soil deterioration.

INDIRECT EFFECTS ON POPULATION

A shift in agricultural opportunities may cause people to move to more productive areas. For instance, less prosperous regions on the planet are

most vulnerable to climate change. This is because they rely heavily on agriculture and often don’t have the technical or financial means to adapt their practices to changing natural conditions.

GOOD AND BAD SURPRISES

Although some effects of climate change are already visible, the many variables at play make it difficult to predict the future. The success of crop production depends on moisture and precipitation, sunshine, the condition of the earth’s atmosphere, the severity of winters, and the proliferation of pests and disease. The fate of agricultural activities will also be influenced by the capacity of human beings to respond appropriately to the disruptions to come.

While it’s nearly impossible to predict which scenario will come next, it’s important to implement sustainable land stewardship practices to preserve the environment for future generations.

WORKING WITH YOU TO FIND YOUR WAY HOME

Councillor candidate, farmer seeks to change lot severance bylaw for retiring farmers

By Mike Renzella The Haldimand Press

A local farmer and Ward 5 candidate in the upcoming municipal election, James Kaspersetz, has set his sights on an issue near to his heart –changing a bylaw restriction stopping retiring farmers from rezoning a portion of their land to build a retirement home at their family operation.

Kaspersetz, who has been running his farm operation in Dunnville since 2016, said the issue first came to his attention when he began looking into lot severance options ahead of his own eventual retirement.

To all Canadian Farmers, THANK YOU for your hard work, sacrifice and dedication that has fueled the growth of our great nation.

“In talking to many farmers and asking their opinion as to which process would work, I was surprised that the County and Provincial government removed the option for farmers to sever off a lot on their operation,” said Kaspersetz, who noted that they do still allow for the creation of a second house on the property to “allow for the next generation to take over.”

He continued, “Prior to the revision of Haldimand County’s Master Plan and the Ontario government, farmers were allowed to sever one lot from their farming operation to be used as a retirement lot. On our farm in Canfield we were allowed to sever off one lot, which my parents built a house on, and then at a later date sold the farm to a non-family member. The Liberal government under Premier David Peterson started to severely restrict the use of lot creation.”

Haldimand County’s Manager of Planning and Development Shannon VanDalen explained the policy that precludes the County from being able to grant such requests.

“All municipal planning documents must conform to Provincial legislations. In this case, the Provincial Policy Statement, 2020 states that the creation of new residential lots in prime agricultural areas is not permitted. Farm retirement lots were permitted through the policy a number of years ago, however this was removed in 2005,” said VanDalen.

While the issue remains largely outside of the municipalities’ hands, VanDalen provided a rationale for the policy, stating, “The overall intention for this policy is to preserve agricultural lands and natural resources, and to avoid land fragmentation and further introductions of sensitive land uses, i.e.

DID YOU KNOW?

the non-farm residential lot.”

She said that while the County receives a few inquiries each year about creating a new lot, “no further applications are received once the policy has been explained.”

Kaspersetz, nonetheless, believes it is a common concern based on his conversations: “Farmers feel it is more of a planning decision that favours developers who can buy parcels of land and convert them into single lots as part of the Provincial government ‘Places to Grow’. The farmers are not severing their lands for profit, they are severing them … in an attempt to stay close to the family operation and provide support to the younger family members.”

“It seems ironic that the only way I can plan for my retirement and obtain a second residence is to buy an adjoining property and do a boundary adjustment and take that home as a retirement residence.”

Kaspersetz called the policies a “major concern” and wants to see action taken by Haldimand Council for change.

VanDalen noted however, “As this is a Provincial policy, any change in the policy would have to come from a provincial level. Should a municipality wish the policy to be changed, they could potentially bring it to the Province for consideration through Council. However, as this is a Provincial policy, it applies to all municipalities so any changes would be wide-reaching.”

Kaspersetz plans to do just that if he is elected this fall in Ward 5: “Farmers have a deep affliction to stay close to their family and have no intention to move into a condo in the city. They grew up in the country and want to stay in the country and most importantly stay close to their family farm.”

Canola and wheat have contributed to at least half of Canada’s overall crop exports since 2009. Canada is the world’s leading grower and exporter of flax-seed, exporting to over 50 nations in 2017. It is also the world’s top producer and supplier of maple syrup, accounting for around 80% of global production. Having pulse exports to over 120 nations in 2018, Canada is the world’s leading provider and exporter of dry peas and lentils. In 2016, Canadian exports totaled more than $60 billion.

“Farmers have a deep affliction to stay close to their family and have no intention to move into a condo in the city.

James Kaspersetz, Local farmer & Ward 5 Councillor Candidate

Family Fun Colouring

CRYPTO FUN Farming

Solve the code to discover words related to agriculture. Each number corresponds to a letter. (Hint: 19 = S)

A. 24 8 14 9

Clue: Rural area

B. 15 12 8 21 7 19

Clue: Trees, shrubs and more

C. 3 8 14 10 6 19 7

Clue: Gathering crops

D. 12 26 10 6 19 7 17 4 16

Clue: Farm animals

Answers: A. farm B. plants C. harvest D. livestock

Solve the code to discover words related to farm safety. Each number corresponds to a letter. (Hint: 23 = A)

A. 4 12 12 19 16

Clue: Equipment

B. 23 10 1 9 23 19 16

Clue: Livestock

C. 14 23 22 4 1 12 10

Clue: Use care

D. 4 18 23 1 10 1 10 24

Clue: Instruction

Answers: A. tools B. animals C. caution D. training

WORD SCRAMBLE Farming

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Thank you TO OUR FARMING COMMUNITY

We recognize the incredible contributions our community’s farmers make to our lives and economy. From food to fiber, the efforts of today’s agricultural industry are essential to the producers we count on to feed, clothe, and protect ourselves and our families each and every day Thanks to all those whose hard work, dedication, and innovation in the field enrich our lives and keep our community growing

We recognize the incredible contributions our community’s farmers make to our lives and economy. From food to fiber, the efforts of today’s agricultural industry are essential to the producers we count on to feed, clothe, and protect ourselves and our families each and every day. Thanks to all those whose hard work, dedication, and innovation in the field enrich our lives and keep our community growing.