The Rural Voice - April 2024

Rural Voice April 2024

The

THE MAGAZINE OF AGRICULTURAL LIFE ... $2.50 PM 40037593

FARMING LEGACY The cows are gone but crops and vegetables sustain the seventh generation of Hartung farmers

THE MOCCASIN PROJECT

Nahneebahweequay’s life exemplifies the complexity of Indigenous/colonial history

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Lactalis Canada president says success is dependent on partnerships with dairy farmers

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Contents The

Rural Voice THE MAGAZINE OF AGRICULTURAL LIFE

Published monthly by: The Rural Voice, Box 429, Blyth, Ontario, N0M 1H0 Telephone: 519-523-4311 Fax: 519-523-9140 E-mail: info@northhuron.on.ca Website: ruralvoice.ca

16

Publisher: Deb Sholdice

20 Columns Lisa Boonstoppel-Pot . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Keith Roulston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Kate Procter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Jeffrey Carter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Mabel’s Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Viewpoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Recipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Gardening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Markets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Woodlots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Agrilaw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

Departments Ruralite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Advice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 Business Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Advertisers Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Newsletters

National Farmers Union . . . . . . . . . .58 Perth Pork . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Grey County Federation . . . . . . . . . .60 Bruce County Federation . . . . . . . .61 Perth County Federation . . . . . . . . . .62 Huron County Federation . . . . . . . . .64

24 APRIL 2024 • Cover Photo Luke Hartung of Gowanstown Photo by Lisa Boonstoppel-Pot

• Deadlines: May Issue – April 9 June Issue – May 7

16 Seventh Generation Farmer

The dairy cows left but Luke Hartung stayed to become the seventh generation of Hartung farmers

20 The Moccasin Identifier Finding and remembering the spots of our Indigenous history

24 Lactalis Leader Mark Taylor, CEO of Lactalis Canada talked leadership, partnership and promotion at dairy symposium

28 Harmony Horses

Editor: Lisa Boonstoppel-Pot rveditorlisa@northhuron.on.ca Contributing writers: Keith Roulston, Kate Procter, Jeffrey Carter, Rhea Hamilton Seeger, Arnold Mathers, Donna Lacey, Melisa Luymes, Carolyn Crawford, Bonnie Sitter, Jeff Tribe Advertising Sales: Shelley Kroes rvads@northhuron.on.ca Production co-ordinator & Telemarketing: Joan Caldwell PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40037593 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO CIRCULATION DEPT. PO BOX 429, BLYTH ON N0M 1H0 email: info@northhuron.on.ca Subscriptions: $25 (12 issues) $45 (24 issues), includes HST Back copies $2.75 each.

Make cheques payable to: NORTH HURON PUBLISHING CO.

Lindsey Partridge uses Liberty training to maximize horse sense for optimal horse training

32 Citrus and Key Lime Pie

Carolyn Crawford returns from Florida with a zest to bake key lime pie and key lime muffins

48 Deal or Lose the Farm

Sisters squabble over farm after mother dies with sad consequences

All manuscripts submitted for consideration should be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. Editorial content may be reproduced only by permission of the publisher. The Rural Voice makes every effort to see that advertising copy is correct. However, should an error occur, please notify The Rural Voice office within 30 days of invoicing in order to obtain a billing adjustment.

A division of North Huron Publishing Company Inc.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

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2 The Rural Voice

“

Ruralite Farmers that struggle with moving decision-

”

making responsibilities to the next generation are farms that are dead in the water.

~ Luke Hartung on his experience farming with his father, who handed the decision reins over early. See story on page 16.

Fun With Words

● What kind of things does a dairy farmer talk about when he is milking cows? — Udder nonsense ● As a farmer, I hear lots of jokes about sheep. I’d tell them to my dog but he has... — Herd them all ● What do farmers use to make crop circles? — A pro tractor ● I used to date a girl with one leg who worked at a brewery.

— She was in charge of the hops ● What did the surgeon say to the patient who insisted on closing up his own incision? — Suture self

•

Nahnee’s Things “Grey Roots is home to around 40 personal items owned by a woman affectionately known as “Nahnee” including her wedding ring, a doeskin children’s moccassin, a raccoon bone awl and garters...” ~ The story of Nahneebahweequay and the Moccassin Trail.

See page 20

April

INSPIRATION

“In agriculture, whatever you plan and execute takes two to three years to have an impact.” ~Sharad Pawar

“The farmers who succeed are the ones who are going to incorporate new technologies.”

•

~Stan Blade

Neil’s One-Liners (Wisdom from McGavin Files)

● In life we try to keep up with the Jones and

Farmers Never Quit

Joe Van den Heuvel of Stratford shared this picture with The Rural Voice showing his hand made projects. The former dairy farmer is in his 90s and creates rug hooking art of farm and nature scenes. ~ Photo submitted

eventually find out we are

•

the Jones everybody else was trying to keep up to.

April 2024 3

Lisa Boonstoppel-Pot Lisa B. Pot is editor of The Rural Voice, and farms in Huron County

These Bald Eagles like chicken

W

hile it’s somewhat incongruous that the majestic Bald Eagle is a dedicated carrion eater, I am thankful for it and the chicken farmers that make viewing of these stunning birds so accessible in Huron County.

Growing up I never saw Bald eagles because in 1970, there were less than 10 breeding pairs in Ontario.

Today, the population is strong with a CBC article stating more than 2,600 Bald eagle nests were recorded last year.

These raptors are now thriving and have been removed from the Species at Risk list, which it was on for over 50 years.

I see them regularly over my farm on the banks of the Maitland River in Huron County. They like to feed on

I

fish, aquatic birds and small mammals such as amphibians and reptiles. Deer carcasses are a major source of food for them in Ontario’s winter.

These juveniles (pictured), estimated at three to four years old, have developed a taste for chicken. Dead chicken. Given the number of chicken farms in Huron County, some of which stockpile manure on fields until they can spread, it’s no wonder Bald Eagles flock to this area for an easy meal.

I’m not sure what risks (if any) this poses from an ecological standpoint but

from a photographer’s viewpoint, it’s COOL BEANS. This pair were roosting right beside the road.

It’s also so rewarding to know when farmers change their ways (in this case, farmers stopped using DDT insecticide) species CAN recover and thrive once again. ◊

How deep do your farming roots go?

was very keen to meet Luke Hartung after his uncle encouraged me to write a story about the seventh-generation farmer. His ancestors were some of the first settlers in Perth County and from father to son, the urge to farm has manifested in each generation.

In our family, the family farm was taken over by the daughter and her farmer husband as the second generation and is now being succeded by our son for the third generation. My father was a more-recent immigrant so we don’t have the history of the Hartungs but we do have the same feelings and drive, I would say.

Farming is a calling. You can call it a business and it is. You can call it “what you know”, and it’s that too. But the land and the animals call to one or more caretakers in each generation to “take care” of that farm during their sojourn on earth.

Imbedded in the soil are the memories of the The Hartung Farm mother/father and grandmother/grandfather’s work before them, creating a thread of purpose that is woven into genealogical energy and pride for the job set before the new farmer. My son may not feel it yet as in his youth he strives to put his mark on the farm and find his way ... but he will recognize it later. I know because I do. The call to be stewards and raise families on our “patch of sunshine” never grows silent. It just flows from one generation to the next. ◊ 4 The Rural Voice

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APRIL 2024 5

Keith Roulston Keith is former publisher of The Rural Voice.

He lives near Blyth, ON.

We gain, and lose, rural wildlife

T

he other night, in the midst of a startlingly beautiful sunset, my wife called me to see a couple of dozen wild turkeys in the corn field to the west of our house, as seen through the large windows of the rear addition of our country home.

The next day, about a dozen of the flock were in our orchard, scratching among the residue of last year’s apple crop for something to eat before sauntering down the lane.

The sight of wild turkeys isn’t exactly rare at our house, but it’s still unusual enough to have us watching for a few minutes. We’ve lived here for nearly 50 years and for the first 25 we never saw turkeys. Though

native to our area, the last wild turkey had been recorded in 1909.

Like the passenger pigeon, turkeys had been hunted into extinction by early settlers. There had been so many of them, who could imagine they could kill them all, and there were no restrictions on when, and how many turkeys you could kill – until they were killed off.

I remember the first releases of wild turkeys by Ministry of Natural Resources staff in the early 1990s.

Somewhere, back in the files, we have a Rural Voice with a cover shot (still black and white back then) of turkeys being released after being captured down in the States and trucked to Ontario. They were released on the edge of the Maitland River valley so they could have a favourable habitat.

There was no hunting allowed of these first releases but who could expect them to reproduce so quickly.

In hardly any time I remember farmers complaining they’d become so prolific that they were eating out of the feed bunks on some cattle farms, frightening off the cattle that were supposed to eat there.

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6 The Rural Voice

Soon hunting seasons were allowed again – but not the unrestricted hunts that helped lead to their temporary extinction. There are now an estimated 70,000 to 100,000 turkeys in the wild in Ontario.

But turkeys are another case where farmers in slower-growth areas are protecting a species on behalf of the entire population. Areas of farmland which are being rezoned for urban growth and covered by acres of highways, houses and apartments aren’t going to be welcome for the bird. Yet farmers are among the most loyal voters for Ontario Premier Doug Ford, a downtown Toronto politician who seems to see farmland only as a potential area for urban settlement and not as a precious resource to feed our urban dwellers.

Many of those urban residents don’t think much about the food farmers grow, either, as long as the shelves are full at their supermarket.

They do worry, however, about the turkeys, deer and other species that exist only on that farmland. They aren’t nearly as supportive of species like raccoons that live in urban attics and feed from their garbage, adapting to the conditions of cities.

We got wild turkeys back after nearly a century of them being missing from our landscape, but they are endangered in a different way in the 21st century. Year by year hundreds of acres are lost to urban development, squeezing the growing of food and wildlife onto a smaller and smaller acreage.

The federal government is also a factor in this. It’s hard to imagine but Canada's population may reach between 42.9 million and 52.5 million in 2043 and up to 74.0 million in 2068, according to some forecasts. That means expanding urban growth, covering Ontario’s limited farmland. It means less land for farmers to grow food, unless we suddenly get an enlightened government that steers urban development to less productive land.

I won’t live to see that growth.

Meanwhile, I’ll just watch out the window to see the turkeys and the deer, the squirrels and the rabbits and the many song birds that make life in rural Ontario so interesting.◊

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APRIL 2024 7

Kate Procter Kate farms, hikes, canoes, and plays guitar in Huron County.

Stay curious to see the possibilities

“W

e limit the possibilities whenever we think we know the answer.” I can’t tell you how much I love this quote from Peter Johnson, also known as Wheat Pete. I have had the opportunity to hear him speak at a couple of meetings this

winter, and appreciate this reminder to open my mind and look for the possibilities instead of focusing on the obstacles.

The period from January to the end of March is typically the time of year when there are lots of organized learning opportunities for farmers.

Workshops, conferences, and grower appreciation meetings all provide spaces for farmers to get away, learn about the latest research, share ideas, and connect with each other before the hectic growing season starts again.

Sometimes it is easy to get caught up in the details, and not exactly forget, but maybe lose sight of the big picture. I am not talking about long-term goals and visions for our own operations, but more of a bigger perspective. I have been reminded of that big picture at a couple of recent meetings.

Wheat Pete reminded grain farmers of the amazingly good news story that is agriculture. Since the 1960s, farmers have increased the amount of food produced by four

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8 The Rural Voice

times, while using only 10 per cent more land. At the beginning of that period, one in three people were food insecure. Today that number is one in 10. While this is still too many, it is a number that we as farmers don’t think about very often, especially when negative headlines always seem to capture attention.

We don’t talk about the Green Revolution very often, at least not in my circles. But the changes that have occurred due to changes in plant genetics, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, controlled irrigation, and improvements in mechanization and technology have allowed us to improve production and efficiency at a rate that we almost take for granted now.

While we do face environmental challenges, innovation and thoughtful learning are helping us improve in this area as well.

Two men are credited with making such major advances in plant breeding that their work is considered instrumental in leading the Green Revolution. Norman Borlaug was an American agronomist who led many initiatives. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Congressional Gold Medal. He is one of only seven people to have been awarded all three. He has been called the “father of the Green Revolution”, and is credited by many sources with saving over one billion people worldwide from starvation. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize because his contributions to reducing food insecurity throughout the world were so significant that they helped bring about more actual world peace.

Yuan Longping was another major contributor to the Green Revolution, and is known as the “Father of Hybrid Rice”. For his contributions to improving food security, he was awarded the 2004 World Food Prize and the 2004 Wolf Prize in Agriculture. Yuan also made major contributions because of his determination to share his successes with other countries and to teach farmers in other countries how to grow and cultivate hybrid rice. He has been credited with saving at least as many lives as Borlaug.

While these two men obviously

stand out in the area of plant breeding, the passion, devotion, and care taken by countless people around the world have also played a major role in making the changes that we see in agriculture today. As I looked around the rooms at the farmers listening and learning – I saw innovators and experimenters, lots of people who are willing to try new things and probably have more “failures” than successes. But those failures are a stepping stone to success, every one a learning opportunity.

As Wheat Pete reminded us, falling into the trap of thinking we have to do something in a certain way because “we’ve always done it this way” is dangerous thinking.

While he suggested these are the “most dangerous words in agriculture,” I would argue they are possibly the most dangerous words in life overall. I fall into this trap myself regularly.

Discovering a way that works can lull us into a false sense of security, and helps us forget to search for better ways. My Dad has always been guided by a desire to discover better ways to do things. Hmm… that worked… ? How can we make it work better? When I get rolling along, doing things this year the same as I did last year because it worked… I try to think of my Dad’s constant desire to improve. I am sure that when he started, he never imagined the improvements in swine genetics that he saw over his career.

Most of these improvements did not happen overnight, but were the result of methodical trial and error, tireless record keeping, data analysis, and never accepting the argument that we will continue in this way because this is how we’ve always done it.

Spring is always a time of hope and optimism for farmers - new cropping season, birth and regrowth, a time to start over. Getting out and learning from each other helps with this. Seeing lots of young, passionate faces, sharing ideas with those of us who have been around a bit longer provides a great opportunity to keep the revolution going, tackle challenges, and embrace new ideas for improvement. I am grateful for that opportunity. ◊

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April 2024 9

Jeffrey Carter Jeffrey is a freelance journalist based in Dresden, Ontario.

From journalist to activist

O

ver the years, I’ve covered many stories about the response of communities to unwanted developments. Now the proverbial shoe is on the other foot.

York1, a company with millions upon millions in assets, has come to Dresden in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent – or more accurately has come to a location less than a mile from the community. The company has plans to open a recycling centre for construction waste and a landfill. They’ve purchased an 85-acre site, the former location for a little business that ground waste wood into mulch and recycled a few other things with a

handful of employees, along with another 150 acres of agricultural land adjacent to the 85 acres.

There have been reports, as well, that the company has offered to buy other nearby properties.

So far, they’ve spent about $8 million, all tolled. Two public meetings have been held and yet the community, which is up in arms, remains inadequately informed.

I needed to make a decision.

Would I cover the story as a journalist or use my expertise in such matters to support the community?

Perhaps a bit of both is in order.

The site lies within the watershed of Molly’s Creek, a little stream that runs into the environmentallysignificant Sydenham River. Around the midpoint of the 19th century, a woman by the name of Molly Blakesly farmed there. She took her water from a natural spring, as did everyone else who passed by. Hence the name, Molly’s Creek.

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10 The Rural Voice

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fight. Where once the waters ran clear, a development that would take waste from across Ontario has been proposed.

I’ve offered other suggestions, outlined in a column that will appear in The Herald, the little newspaper that serves the Dresden-Thamesville area on a monthly basis. These, I feel, may be useful for other communities facing similar threats.

Perhaps the first consideration for people looking to put a stop to such developments is commitment. Large corporations like York1 have the advantage of having laid their plans well before community members become aware of them. They also tend to have ample financial resources and the ear of government.

Or, if not the ear, are at least familiar with such government ministries as the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks and how to negotiate the regulatory measures that are in place.

Successful opposition to such projects requires months, if not years of effort, and those opposed or who simply wish to minimize the potential harms need to present a united front.

Already there is division in the ranks over the Dresden proposal – good for York1, bad for the community – evidenced by a sentiment recently expressed to me, “It’s a done deal.

There’s nothing we can do.”

The second consideration is information, facts not supposition.

While the company in question has held two public meetings, both of which I attended, community members feel far from being fully informed. Pertinent questions that need to be answered include: what is the long-term intention of York1 with this project; what, in detail, is the design of the recycling facility and landfill; what specifically will be landfilled; why and to what purpose has York1 acquired 150 acres of agricultural land adjacent to their initial purchase; what are the details of the approval process and will it involve public input; is the landfill area to be restricted to just eighthectares as maintained by York1 or are there plans for an expansion; what happens if the site is sold to another interest? The list goes on and on.

The community will need allies.

Foremost among them, in this case, should be the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, of which Dresden and area is part, and any legal advice it can provide. As such, any past communications between York1 representatives with administrative personnel or elected officials, informal or otherwise, should see the light of day.

In this regard, the municipality’s past record bears examination. While I could go into details, suffice to say Chatham-Kent in the past has sided with corporations rather than the local citizenry when big projects have been proposed, even to the extent of sharing revenues. My suggestion is to watch for carrots being dangled before the municipality this time around.

Other potential allies include other municipal jurisdictions, notably Lambton County, which is likely to bear much of the cost of damage to municipal roads. According to the roads’ expert with Good Roads Ontario, the heavier the load, the greater the damage and it has been estimated as many as 170 heavy trucks will be traveling to and from the site each day when it becomes fully operational.

A spokesperson with the former MPP’s office, incidentally, suggested those opposed to York1’s plans write letters to the provincial government, a flood of letters, expressing their concern. This is a good idea. Send letters and, more importantly, demand answers.

Finally, an admission. While I’m opposed to York1’s project, I am not yet convinced it is entirely a bad idea. Certainly, positive implications can be attached to the recycling of construction waste, lumber, asphalt and soil. Still, the proposed location of the project is, at best, problematic and the spokespersons speaking for the proponent, while genial in their demeanour, have been hired to push .this deal through – no matter what If any readers have suggestions of how our community can successfully respond to the situation, please them to me at jeffreyallencarter1 @outlook.com. I will forward them to the appropriate people. ◊

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Mabel’s Grill The world’s problems are solved daily ’round the table at Mabel’s Grill.

Molly Whiteside stopped as she delivered the menus at Mabel’s Grill the other morning and sniffed as she passed behind George Mackenzie’s and Cliff Murray’s chairs.

“What’s that for,” wondered Dave Winston, as he opened his menu.

“We’ve had so many farmers coming in here after taking a break from spreading manure that the whole place stank,” Molly said as she took out her order pad. “I just wondered if any of you guys were adding to it,” “I only spread manure after I was in here for the day,” George said.

“Me, too,” said Cliff.

“Well thank you for that,” said Molly. “I get to where I hate coming to work in the spring around here.”

“Well I hire people to spread

manure from my pig barn,” Dave said “And we all smell that, even when it’s a mile off,” said Cliff.

“But I’ve only got enough pig manure for 150 of my 750 acres,” Dave protested.

“Oh yeah,” grumbled George.

“We all remember the year you covered the other 600 acres with that awful waste from human sewage plants. I’m a couple of miles away but I almost choked for about a week when they spread it.”

“And I heard about it!” Dave responded. “And I won’t get that stuff again!”

“Well let’s get down to some of Mabel’s good-smelling breakfast food before it gets busy, and stinky, in here,” said Molly. She took their orders and headed to the kitchen.

“So what are you fertilizing your other 600 acres with these days?” wondered George.

“Just commercial fertilizer right now, but I was reading in a farm paper about this cricket frass researchers are doing some research on,” Dave said. “If that goes well I’d

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be interested in trying it,” said Dave.

“What the heck is cricket frass?” wondered George.

“I read about that in the paper!” put in Cliff. “They’re not using it yet except at research farms, but it’s a pellet made by a company down in Petrolia from the excrement, exoskeletons and discarded feed from an insect-growing operation in London.”

“Yuck!” reacted George.

“Oh, I suppose your cattle have such sweet manure you eat it for breakfast!” said Dave caustically. “I read that they tried this stuff in a greenhouse growing lettuce and cucumbers. They got cucumbers a week earlier than normal and they yielded 19 per cent more all tolled.”

“Never liked cucumbers anyway except for pickles,” sniffed George.

“I wonder how ladybugs would do as fertilizer,” Cliff wondered. “I’ve flushed so many ladybugs down the sink or the toilet in this mild winter that my septic tank must be about full.”

“They were a constant problem at our house, too,” said Dave.

“Well just don’t spread that on your crops,” grumbled George.

“The other thing I’ve noticed with such a lack of snow this year is that we’ve had so many deer in the yard,” said Cliff. “The other morning at breakfast my wife called me to see five in the orchard – they all looked kind of young. I suppose the older does are pregnant and staying in the bush these days.”

“Too bad they wouldn’t be nice and handy like that in hunting season,’ said Dave. “I could use some other meat than just pork in the freezer.”

“You could always buy a side of beef from me,” George suggested.

“Or lamb from me,” offered Cliff.

“Yeah but it’s more expensive than a hunting licence, a shotgun shell to shoot it and my own butchering,” Dave replied.

“I butchered a cow once, never again,” said George. “I’m happy to pay the abattoir to do the dirty work.”

“Too bad those ladybugs only go down the toilet,” Cliff said with a smirk. “I mean if we use dead crickets as fertilizer maybe we might have a good snack with ladybugs.” ◊

The Rural Voice 12

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Viewpoint Ralph C. Martin is an author and a retired professor from the University of Guelph

Responding to an uncertain ecological future

F

ifty years ago, on a moonless night in the Fraser Canyon, B.C., I was trudging back to camp. Cautiously crossing a railroad bridge, I heard the wail of a train whistle ricocheting through canyons behind me. I couldn’t judge the distance between train and bridge, nor how far along the bridge I had progressed, nor how far I had to go, nor how high I was above water.

Despite uncertainties, standing still was not an option. Crouch-running, with a hand on one rail and motivation multiplied, I MOVED over unevenly spaced ties, with toes

up. I escaped.

Regarding uncertainty, James Baldwin noted that “No one can possibly know what is about to happen: it is happening, each time, for the first time, for the only time.”

The large context of uncertainty associated with a changing climate and subsequent erratic weather, loss of habitat and biodiversity, nitrogen and phosphorus pollution, novel entities and over-exploitation of land and water (www.science.org), is happening for the first and only time, in the time scale of epochs, including humans (Shulmeister, The Conversation, Jul 7-20). Until our immediate and proximal ecological circumstances viscerally deteriorate, we might ignore risks or ask for forgiveness in assuming risks are minimal. When specific ecological crises buffet us in our regions, we will ask for mercy.

The approaching train of my youth was certain, for practical purposes, and my uncertainty was in not knowing how to dodge it. The approaching ecological and climate crisis (global over decades)

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14 The Rural Voice

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amplifying weather variability (at specific times, in specific areas) may appear to be uncertain in that we do not know what specific weather will happen, when it will happen and where it will happen. However, disruptions and disasters, including loss of human lives, will happen in many places, at many times and ecological overshoot can no longer be dodged (www.mdpi.com/26734060/4/3/32).

Using uncertainty, about the ecological and climate crisis, as an excuse to wait and see, is bad for business (T. Wilkes, Globe and Mail, Oct 23-23), bad for farming (J. Watts, Guardian, Jan 29-24) and bad for health (J. van Dyk, Guardian, Nov 16-23). To mitigate unwelcome surprises, it is practical to act now based on what we already know and to adapt iteratively, as we learn more.

If you doubt climate scientists, pay attention to the Insurance Bureau of Canada and other insurers who assess increased risks of weather-related disasters. They will not insure some force majeure risks at all. Peter Routledge at a recent catastrophe insurance conference said, “The faster we price in the cost of climate, and the risk, the faster private enterprise will innovate solutions like adaptation” (I. Bickis, Globe and Mail, Feb. 6-24).

In Escape From Overshoot, Peter Victor argues that as ecological overshoot gathers steam and its impacts come closer, we can choose to use scientific evidence to ascertain how to mitigate overshoot and how to adapt to soften impacts. Misguided ads such as “Crave More” and the apparent certainties of required economic growth with excess energy consumption and extraction could give way to Mike Nickerson’s motto of “more fun, less stuff” i.e. a system that aims for healthy human communities on a thriving planet (http://sustainwellbeing.net/).

Farmers might ask, “what were the conditions of natural habitat and biodiversity, clean water availability and soil organic matter (SOM) levels on my fields when my greatgrandparents farmed? What are they now? How am I setting an example so that my children, grandchildren

and great-grandchildren will maintain or improve these conditions? Many farms are or will be in the same family for seven generations, and in addition to making a profit, their viability depends on high SOM levels, clean available water and dynamic biodiversity.

Consumers might ask “what did my great-grandparents eat, how did they conserve, avoid waste and practice cultural values? How can I avoid processed food with excess fat, salt and sugar? How is my diet simple, seasonal, tasty, nutritious and integrated with community so that my descendants will have sufficient food to survive with dignity?”

All of us might ask, “how can we use less energy, reduce our material requirements, lower our debts and live respectfully with all our relations? Will we educate ourselves and others with reports from organizations such as The Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation, aimed at de-risking the negative impacts of a changing climate?”

Being the contrarian I am, I reread Vaclav Havel’s book, Summer Meditations in January. After the fall of communism in 1989, he was the first president of Czechoslovakia and understood the perils of uncertainty.

“If today’s planetary civilization has any hope of survival, that hope lies chiefly in what we understand as the human spirit.” Similar to our ancestors, we are called to courageously accept the real challenges of our time and to act with resolve and humility.

Spiritual, cultural, artistic or personal values, to be meaningful, must be integrated into daily living, within realistic ecological limits. In the golden rule, “do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” “others” should clearly extend to non-humands. The prophet, Rachel Carson, said the more we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe around us, the less taste we have for its destruction.

As in any strategic planning exercise, our greatest contributions to reconciling with ecological and climatic uncertainty, may be to decide what we will stop doing. ◊

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April 2024 15

Farming

“Never had a thought to sell” Seventh-generation farmer overcomes adversity to maintain family farming tradition with his own • By Lisa Boonstoppel-Pot • determination and vision

L

uke Hartung’s ancestors were some of the first settlers to arrive in Perth County in the 1830s and it’s not hard to imagine how proud they would be that the better life they imagined for their children and children’s children is exemplified in Luke himself.

It was Luke’s uncle, John Mueller (who farms near

Rostock) who reached out and said Luke and family are seventh generation farmers of the Hartung clan and would I do a story on him as a way to advocate for young farmers.

Being the seventh generation to farm is a big deal and I wondered what that history means to Luke and how deep do those farming roots go?

Luke himself wasn’t too sure he should be the focus of a story but the more we got into it, the more pride in agriculture, entrepreneurial spirit and family respect was revealed as Luke’s story unwound from the days of his grandfather, Henry Hartung, who ran a mixed farm.

“I don’t have the whole genealogy like John Mueller does but I can tell you the plaque on the bank barn is dated 1878,” says Luke, sitting at the dining room table in the house both his father and grandfather lived in on Line 89 near Gowanstown. His grandfather had grown up in Wallaceville, not far from this farm.

He married a local girl – Ruth Klein – and they had laying hens and dairy cows. This was pre-quota days and the couple separated the cream from the milk and brought it to a creamery a block away. They had three kids of which the youngest was a son named Donald Hartung who would take over the farm at the young age of 17 when his father died at 53 of bowel cancer.

“He and my grandmother had to decide what to do.

My dad was able to finish high school and then he started farming full-time,” says Luke. Dairy was the focus of the farm and cows were milked in the old bank barn until 2009. Then came another big decision for the farm, which was experiencing financial stress.

Should they build a new barn and expand? Or should they turn into a crop farm and get off-farm jobs to supplement their incomes?

It was a make or break moment, in a sense. From years of working on the farm, Luke knew he was a farmer but not a dairy farmer. “I told my dad I liked milking cows but only three times a week.” The decision was made to alter the trajectory on the farm from cows to crops and Luke says they had no regrets.

The pair began the process of transitioning the farm from Donald to Luke when his two siblings decided not to farm.

Then Luke had to decide what his off-farm career Luke Hartung is a full‐time farmer and Agronomy Sales and would be. Teaching was a thought until he volunteered Marketing Manager with Midwest Cooperative, keeping up the in a high school during his days at the University of tradition of farming in Perth County on the farm his father and Guelph. The experience nixed that idea! “I just didn’t grandfather worked. realize I could have a career in agriculture other than 16 The Rural Voice

being a farmer. I was oblivious to it,” Luke remembers. “I figured all farm kids go back to the farm.”

So he went to Ridgetown College to get a diploma in agriculture and during that time, sowed his first entrepreneurship seeds by starting up a market gardening operation with his long-time friend Andy Williams.

They named it Har-Will. In 2011, Luke and his wife Crystal took over the market gardening business, renaming it Harwill Farms, differentiated from the cash crop side of the farm which is known as Hartung Farms. “The market gardening side of the farm has grown and evolved. We now grow a wide range of vegetables and sell our produce at the Minto Farmers’ Market in Palmerton, through a seasonal Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) business and via a weekly e-mail list where customers pick up their veggie order at the farm,” says Luke. Harwill’s biggest market garden crop is pumpkins. Last year, they grew seven acres of them which they market through roadside stands, wholesale through local stores and sell at their on-farm event called Pumpkinpalooza. This year’s event is scheduled for October 5 and 6.

Before all that happened, Donald and Luke were still figuring out their own direction.

Donald ended up working fulltime as a milk truck driver for Allan Johnson Milk Transport, a job he very much enjoyed. He was often done driving by early afternoon and could start working on the farm.

Managing the farm wasn’t Donald’s best skillset so he handed the decision-making responsibility of the farm to Luke early on. Luke felt confident in this role but was still searching for his ideal off-farm job.

He was hired by Agricorp to work in the call centre. “I liked it but it made me realize that I wanted to work outside.” Next, he got a job at Midwest Cooperative which was Huron Bay Cooperative at the time.

He started working there full-time in 2011 and still works full-time as the Agronomy Sales and Marketing Manager.

Both men enjoyed their jobs and

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worked really well together on the farm. “We complemented each other so well and our partnership was great,” remembers Luke. However, the family faced a very difficult time when Donald was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2021. He died the following year, in his early 60s.

Luke continued the farming legacy with his mother, who lives just down the road, working on a transition plan that “provided a path forward for me to take over the farm.” The process of transitioning is ongoing but Luke owns and manages the farms with a plan in place for his siblings’ farm inheritance. Luke says it’s vital to have an open process to maintain a healthy family dynamic. He admits that talking farm specifics is sometimes “touchy” but the siblings visit, get along and support each other.

Looking back to 2021, Luke said it was a “very difficult year” for the Hartung family and the farm. Besides Donald’s illness, the farm shed burned down and Luke got his hand caught in an auger. Two surgeries and a pile of physiotherapy later, Luke has full use of his hand with the scars to remind him how being in a hurry can have awful consequences.

The shed fire cost them a building and three tractors. One tractor was parked 30 feet away from the shed but the heat from the fire destroyed it. Insurance helped but a farm fire is also costly. The farm now has two Pictures ● Top: Dad Donald Hartung and son Luke Hartung took this picture on June 30, 2009, the date of their last milking. ● Middle: This family photo was taken during the Hartung’s annual Pumpkinpalooza event at their farm. Left to right is Luke Hartung, son Blake, wife Crystal and daughter Brooke. ● Bottom: Luke’s mom, Leola Hartung, is a big part of the business as well and is featured in this family photo on the left with Luke, Brooke, Crystal and Blake also at Pumpkinpalooza. ~Photos supplied 18 The Rural Voice

sheds – one for the crop side of the business and the other, a new shed built in 2023, for the market gardening business. Luke is looking forward to the final details, still being finished, which includes an office, featuring aromatic hickory lumber Luke and his father harvested together.

Both Hartung men started farming young with a lot of responsibility but Luke believes this is the way to go. “A healthy farm is one where responsibility is given to sons at a young age,” he says. “It allows them to call the shots, make mistakes and learn from their mistakes.” He feels very strongly about this, saying in his work as an

agronomist, he sees farms struggle when the fathers won’t let the next generation take responsibility.

“Farmers that struggle with moving decision-making to the next generation are farms that are dead in the water.”

It’s advice he takes seriously because Luke now has two children with his wife Crystal – eight-year-old Blake and five-year-old Brooke.

Obviously, they are too young to know what their future holds but they are already helping in the market garden portion of the farm. Luke gives his wife all the credit for her support and work on the farm as she balances farm life, motherhood and her career as an x-ray technician at

the Listowel Hospital.

Reflecting on his farming history during this interview, Luke says he really does have a sense of pride in being part of the Hartung farming legacy. His first memories are of going to the barn with his dad and he believes he has inherited a passion for farming from his father, grandfather and his Hartung ancestors.

“I’ve loved the camaraderie of farming together and that every year on the farm is different,” says Luke.

“We also have great neighbours that we chat with back and forth.”

Now 37, with a birthday in the spring, Luke also credits his work as an agronomist with helping him grow as a farmer himself. “I’ve talked to everyone in the industry all over midwestern Ontario and it has, for sure, given me a better understanding of how to farm.”

Like all the Hartungs before him, he has high hopes of passing the farm legacy on to the eighth generation, however long that may take. “I’ve never had a thought in my mind of selling,” he concludes. ◊

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History

The Moccasin Identifier Initiative Nahneebahweequay’s legacy inspired and shaped The Moccasin Identifier initiative, a dynamic effort to preserve and highlight Indigenous history before its physical connection to the land is lost • By Jeff Tribe •

N

ahneebahweequay’s life exemplifies the nuanced complexity of combined Indigenous/colonial history, and the importance of recording and recognizing it along the path to truth and reconciliation.

“We should know her story,” said Sim Salata, Curator

Grey Roots Museum and Archives. “She should be part of the history of the province.”

A remarkable individual living in a challenging time for Indigenous people, Nahneebahweequay translates as “Upright Woman” in Ojibwe. She was also known by her Christian moniker of Catherine or Catharine Sutton.

Broadly, compiling information from the Grey Roots Museum and Archives and the Government of Canada National Historic Person website, she was born around 1824 at the Credit River Village, now in Oakville.

Educated to read, write and speak both English and her native Anishnaabemowin, she was raised as a Christian through the influence of her Methodist preacher uncle Kahkewaquonaby (Sacred Feathers, Peter Jones). As a child, Nahneebahweequay accompanied him on a formative trip to England to petition the British Crown for First Nations land rights, a journey she would replicate as an adult.

Nahneebahweequay met her future husband William Sutton through Kahkewaquonaby. When the Credit band was moved off its traditional lands to resettle at New Credit (adjacent to Six Nations, near Brantford) in 1846, the Suttons were one of a few families to instead accept the Nawash band’s offer of land near Owen Sound. The family was recorded as living in the future Sarawak Township in the 1851 census, on 200 acres for which the band provided title.

The Suttons were occupied as missionaries and farming instructors near Sault Ste. Marie and in Michigan during the development and signing of Treaty 82, which surrendered Grey County Nawash lands in 1857 under subsequently contested circumstances.

Nahneebahweequay would battle against the terms and methods of 1850s treaties for the remainder of her life. Specifically for what had been her family’s 200 acres, she attended an auction to “buy back” the property. Initially successful, the purchase was rescinded citing a Moccasin Identifier initiative founder Carolyn King’s goal is to recognize rule preventing the sale of the land to First sites of Indigenous significance with a physical marker before the history Nations persons. is lost.

20 The Rural Voice

Ironically, Nahneebahweequay had also lost her First Nations’ status and annual annuity by marrying a non-Indigenous (white) person, a double-barreled Catch-22.

Her fight against injustice included, along with David Sawyer and Abner Elliott, petitioning The Legislative Assembly of Canada for title or fair compensation for their lands. Her portion of an 1858 petition documented on the Grey Roots website (greyroots.ca) refers to an expenditure of “more than $1,000” and “many years of hard toil” resulting in the erection of a “commodious house”, barn, stables and extensive clearing, bringing 40 or 50 acres into a “good state of cultivation.”

Nahneebahweequay’s quest would also include an audience with the Duke of Newcastle, September 11, 1860 at Canada House (The Duke was on a goodwill tour of Canada with Prince Albert, the future King Edward VII of England), and a royal audience with the prince’s mother Queen Victoria after a cross-Atlantic voyage, funded in part by members of the Quaker church.

Nahneebahweequay was pregnant with the couple’s sixth of eight children at the time, marvels Salata, giving birth while in England.

“I would say she was a pretty strong woman, that’s for sure,” Salata understated.

Nahneebahweequay’s activism for herself and other First Nations people continued until her September 25, 1865 death. In correspondence amounting to a eulogy, her husband William described her as kind to all, a special friend to the poor and suffering, and a favourite among all classes of people, both white and Indigenous.

Title would eventually be gained to their 200 acres, although only in William’s name, and that after her death, says Salata. “Which is a terrible thing.”

Located outside Owen Sound, Grey Roots is home to around 40 donated personal items owned by a woman some affectionately refer to as “Nahnee”, including her wedding ring, a doeskin children’s moccasin, raccoon bone awl and garters in which her full name is spelled out.

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“Her handiwork is incredible,” said Salata.

The archives also holds correspondence from or relating to Nahneebahweequay, both originals embedded within William’s farm records and transcripts bringing her powerful voice to light, 175 years later.

There is significant interest in her story, says Salata, including the suggestion it should be included in the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, as well as Nahneebahweequay’s National Historic Person designation by Parks Canada in April, 2021.

“I think people recognize she is something else.”

Obtusely perhaps and yet fittingly, an impressive eight-foot copper sculpture r e p - r e s e n t i n g Nahneebahweequay stands inside the University of ● Top: Carolyn King’s goal is to recognize sites of Indigenous significance with a physical marker before their history is lost. The first female elected chief of the Mississaguas of the Credit First Nation, companion of The Order of Canada and recipient of her nation’s Eagle Feather has founded The Moccasin Identifier initiative, committed to that goal.● Middle: A collection of Sutton family heirlooms include a baby moccasin owned by Nahneebahweequay which likely pre‐ dates 1865. It is made of semi‐ tanned leather. Her wedding ring, a “Thunder Claw” drum and 19th century bone baculum which was possibly used as a rug punch are also in the collection at the Grey Roots Museum. ● Bottom: University of Guelph Arboretum volunteer Janet Scott (left) and Arboretum Director Justine Richardson outside the Arboretum Centre, hosting London Artist Tom Benner’s sculpture of Nahneebahweequay.

22 The Rural Voice

Guelph Arboretum Centre, staring outward to an aluminum companion sculpture of ‘Queen Victoria’ (currently off-site for repairs). The donated sculptures were placed in 2001 in conjunction with the Art Gallery of Guelph, separated by a water feature symbolically representative of the Atlantic Ocean.

Nahneebahweequay’s statue is “imposing,” said Arboretum volunteer Janet Scott, befitting a “forceful, well-educated woman” who had eight children around the challenging combination of homesteading and missionary work.

“Life was probably not very easy.”

The sculptures are the work of London artist Tom Benner, said Scott, emerging from a regional movement supporting a combined narrative around people’s rights and the environment.

“This brought both of these things together,” said Arboretum Director Justine Richardson.

The Arboretum, a living research laboratory for Ontario native trees, has 12 kilometres of shaded pathways including an Indigenous trail added a couple of years ago by a First Nations student at the university, featuring four interpretive stops.

The statues have accompanying signage offering an opportunity to learn more of Nahneebahweequay’s story.

“It’s really important we have truth and work toward reconciliation and serve that role here,” said Richardson.

Nahneebahweequay’s legacy also helped inspire and continues to shape The Moccasin Identifier initiative

(https://moccasinidentifier.com), a dynamic effort to preserve and highlight Indigenous history before its physical connection to the land is lost. First Nations historian and activist Carolyn King was the first female elected chief of the Mississaguas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN), is a member of the Order of Canada and her own nation’s equivalent, recipient of the eagle feather. Speaking at the annual 2011 MCFN historical presentation specifically to Nahneebahweequay’s property with regards to a “digital dot” program virtually marking sites of Indigenous significance, King was challenged with the preference for a universally-recognizable physical symbol.

Under tight deadlines prior to an Ontario Heritage Trust meeting the following week, King considered and rejected the eagle feather and (clan) dodems as too sacred, before arriving at the moccasin’s literal physical connection.

Four designs representing Ontario’s major Indigenous linguistic groups (Cree, Wendat, Seneca and Haudenosaunee, and Anishinaabe) were developed, forming the basis for installations and an educational program which has been embraced within schools, communities and corporate environments. What began as a regional initiative has expanded to provincial and national scope.

“We call ‘Nahnee’ our inspiration,” said King, noting her struggle is representative of broader First Nations challenges through a multi-generational fight for recognition, respect and being honoured for who they are and who

they were, as well as access and ownership to the land in the colonial context of “surveyor’s lines on the land.”

“She really tells our story.”

King’s approach has always been “non-threatening”, shared understanding and respect between nations on both sides of treaties through what she terms “Indigenous 101” education.

“It’s our story but it’s also everyone’s story. We say we are all treaty people.”

There has been consistent messaging through the United Nations Declaration on Indigenous People, the 1996 Royal Commission on Aboriginal People and most recently, The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, which also significantly included 94 calls to action.

“You can question when does it hit the ground?” said King.

King remains optimistic progress has been made, tragically driven in part by the discovery of massed children’s graves at the former Kamloops residential school site.

“But we have to tell our story and be out there.”

She believes Nahneebahweequay’s story will be instrumental as The Moccasin Identifier initiative moves forward. Her courage in writing and speaking out also provides inspiration for seeking meaningful progress amongst what can be tough audiences.

“The fight for equality, existence, recognition as a people,” King summed up in conclusion. “She laid the groundwork for what we are trying to do.” ◊

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Dairy

Lactalis Canada leader has high praise for Ontario dairy farmers

Mark Taylor, President and CEO of Lactalis Canada (right) answered questions from GillesFroment, a fellow leader at Lactalis Canada during the Southwestern Ontario Dairy Symposium held in Woodstock, February 22.

“Frustrated farmer” is now top dog at Lactalis Canada

C

alling himself a “frustrated farmer”, the president of Lactalis Canada which is the country’s largest milk processor, said the company is all about defending dairy farmers against negative comments because the milk Canadians produce is of the highest quality in the world.

Processing milk in 55 countries with commercial operations in over 70 countries, Lactalis is a big deal in the milk processing industry but Mark Taylor came to the Southwestern Ontario Dairy Symposium held February 22 at the Woodstock Fairgrounds in jeans, with a humble attitude and lots of praise for dairy farmers.

The symposium often features processor leaders as their keynote speakers, perhaps to create understanding between farmers and processors which historically have been keen partners or at odds back in the pre-quota days when processors had all the control.

None of that was evident during this presentation where it almost seemed like Taylor was “selling” the company with two promotional videos, a hefty bout of praise for farmers and leading questions from the question and answer format he chose for this day. However, since joining Lactalis Canada as president and CEO in 2018, he 24 The Rural Voice

has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth including leading the $1.62 billion acquisition of Kraft Heinz’s natural cheese business, which was the biggest acquisition of its kind in Canadian dairy history. He was also named the Most Influential CEO 2023 by the Toronto Food and Beverage Industry via the international publication, CEO Monthly magazine.

He’s a very accomplished leader and perhaps farmers, who spend too much time in isolation, need to hear that they are a “big deal” from someone so successful.

“I sometimes wonder if consumers really understand the care and attention that farmers put into producing the milk that goes into our products,” he asked the crowd at the symposium. “That is something we need to talk about more because it is data-based and scientifically-grounded and enables us to promote the positive impacts of the dairy industry.”

Taylor said he milked cows for years in the United Kingdom. “In fact, I still milked cows until the year I came

• By Lisa Boonstoppel-Pot •

to Canada, which was five years ago.

I did it at least once a year to remind myself how tough it is and because I really enjoy it. I feel most at home when I am on a farm … not in the office,” he said.

Being a CEO of a company behind iconic brands such as Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, Balderson, Astro and Lactantia, Taylor clearly spends a lot of time in his office.

Lactalis is a family company started in 1944 in Laval, Normandy where the current president’s grandfather made 20 Camembert a day in the front room of his house. “It is the largest dairy business in the world if turnover is any measure,” said Taylor, who now lives in Toronto with his wife Angela and two sons.

Compared to the UK, Taylor says there are more similarities than differences between the dairy industry there and in Canada.

“Supply management is the biggest difference and is envied by farmers the world over,” he said. “I see it as a positive but like any formulaic approach, it’s something that needs to evolve to maintain its relevance.”

He believes the biggest threats to supply management are “some of the practices” between retailers and suppliers that have potential to damage the sustainability of the industry, though he did not get into specifics.

Taylor also encouraged farmers to speak louder against government legislation that deprioritized dairy, such as the recent revision of the Canada Food Guide. “If access to dairy is reduced in the supermarket because of the food guide, which is used by retailers to plan their stores, and perhaps reduce dairy on shelves, that is not good because it leaks into human health with such things as osteoporosis.”

Speaking specifically about Ontario, Taylor said Lactalis continues to invest in the province and will spend $150 million plus in 2024. “The challenge now is to get enough engineers for our plans,” said Taylor. “The demand is there and we want more milk and we have to make sure the infrastructure is there to keep up with it, certainly.” Over half the milk Lactalis Canada buys is from

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Ontario, which amounts to over one billion litres.

Taylor also touched on the environmental, social and government movement (ESG) saying Lactalis is working on its fourth ESG report. Looking at three main pillars – animal welfare and climate; circular and recycling packaging; and people in communities. “We take a good look at energy production in our larger facilities which are charged with the carbon tax, which is north of $14 million per year. It’s important for us to figure out alternative sources of energy, such as hydrogen which looks feasible and acceptable,” he said. In terms of animal welfare, Lactalis does not directly influence that but “wants to support farmers to further develop good practices,” he said.

Taylor addressed the need for Grocery Code of Conduct saying, firstly, retailers are “doing a great job for our consumers to improve the overall shopping experience which should be recognized.” However, the issue of listing fees (where a retailer charges a supplier to “list” a new product and will take products off the shelves in order to list the new products) is not a “healthy thing”, said Taylor. “Listing fees do not support innovation because if you have to pass the hurdle of paying millions to get your product in a store, then some manufacturers will decide not to innovate.”

Taylor said he lived through the introduction of a grocery code of practice in the UK in 2013 and “we saw improvement in problematic practices. It also provided certainty for income, reduced risk and helped companies make longer term investment decisions. We need to see this in the Canadian industry,” he said. He also believes Canada needs to move away from its “combative approach” among the top five retailers. “We need to move to a more collaborative approach to increase efficiency, reduce costs, increase resilience and sustainability.”

Other points Taylor touched on included: ● Synthetic milk: “I think they are

Mark Taylor, president and CEO of Lactalis Canada (right) laughs with his Lactalis co‐worker, Gilles Froment, during a presentation about leadership, processing and partnership at the Southwestern Ontario Dairy Symposium held in Woodstock on February 22. a long way from being able to scale that technology and consumers have to like it. From what we have seen so far, it is very variable.The question is consumer acceptance of the new styles of technology as well as the other inputs required to make it.” ● How is Lactalis dealing with solids non-fat (SNF): “I probably have this conversation in France and America once a week and I had it again yesterday with a push to have more support and infrastructure to deal with it. We are up for it in Ontario for sure if we can persuade the government to get behind it. We are ready to move with a range of products.” ● Products for new immigrants: “Multicultural products are big for us because it is a growing space and with immigration, the Canadian population will continue to grow. It is very much on our minds. The great thing from our perspective is, because we are in 70 countries, we do not have to guess what the trends are in other areas of the world.” ● Is supply management positive or a hindrance for Lactalis Canada?: “On the balance it is very positive and it has positive impacts. It’s not a problem as long as we can manufacture from home. But supply management needs to evolve to

remain relevant.” ● Where do you see the dairy industry in 10 years?: “I don’t have a crystal ball but the dairy category is big. In the UK we used to say it was second only to alcohol because it touches every consumer every day.

The metrics are good; the population is growing so the market will continue to get bigger. Yes, the mix will change as more South Asian people come into Canada and lactose intolerance may be more of a thing but we have the tools to deal with that. For instance, someone told me that cheese which is aged over six months naturally doesn’t have lactose in it…we just don’t do enough to educate the consumer.” ◊

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Advice

• By Lisa Boonstoppel-Pot •

Liberty training is all about understanding Lindsay Partridge is wise to the human/horse relationship and how it can totally transform horse training

L

indsay Partridge says she loves Liberty horse training because it helps riders get better at understanding themselves, their horse and the language that connects them.

Speaking on Horse Day on January 7 at Grey Bruce Farmers Week held in Elmwood, Partridge is a return speaker with her wisdom on the horse/human relationship. As founder of Harmony Horsemanship based in the Kawartha Lakes region, she said Liberty training inspires riders to “do more with less” because of the horse’s innate horse sense.

When you have a halter, lead rope and whip, those tools aren’t bad but sometimes riders hide behind them.

“We can get defensive and pull more and we aren't actually learning all of those body language pieces,” said Partridge.

Around horses her whole life, Partridge trained horses like everyone else, using pressure to make a horse do what she expected of it. It all changed one day when she struggled to get horses on a trailer and paused to wonder if the frustration for her and the horse was worth it. Around the same time, she met a trainer called Gary Convery who stated: “There are no bad horses, just people without the desire or patience to understand them.” She realized she did want to understand horses better based on their movements and how her energy and movements affected the horse.

She met with Convery and became addicted to learning horse language, taking away the tools (bits, spurs, round pens, intimidation, etc), and how to project her leadership using her body and energy to develop mutual respect and understanding. “I don’t think tools are bad, but now I understand how to use a tool for more precise communication instead of taking a tool and using it to add more force to a horse.”

28 The Rural Voice

Lindsay Partridge of Harmony Horsemanship Inc. in the Kawartha region shared her horse training expertise during Horse Day at Grey Bruce Farmers Week in January of this year. ~Photo from Lindsay Partridge’s Facebook page.

She provided three secrets to teach your horse to work with you at Liberty with no chasing, whips or ropes. During the process, it will help you develop a better connection with your horse. She had done this program with thousands of students across the globe.

The three secrets are: ● Join up doesn’t need chasing or a round pen ● The Hand Touch is key ● Focus on draw, not drive.

“I discovered these all the hard way,”she said. The hard way was to chase the horses until they choose to submit or choose you. The problem with that situation is that there aren’t always paddocks or fences and if you are in an open space, the horse is always looking for a boundary. It’s better to just make yourself the happy place and the process goes faster.

Making a horse work hard if they get the answer wrong plays into a horse's emotions. Like human

students, horses prefer trainers that are positive and reward them. If you push too hard, you can make a horse anxious, resistant or giving up.

Steps to Joining Up With joining up, the idea is to be intriguing, not chasing. First, you need to observe your horse’s energy level and attention span. “You need to watch. Is the horse moving fast or moving slow? I don’t mean is it walking or cantering, I mean its energy.” If the horse is at low energy and you are loud and aggressive, the energy is at a mismatch. If you have a fast-moving horse, you need to move quickly and then you can dial it down.

If a horse has a quick attention span, you need to move from one thing to the next quickly because their attention span is too short. With multiple sessions, you can build up their attention span.

The other thing to observe is “magnets and no-gos” which are

areas where the horse wants to go, and where it doesn’t. “If you were on a dating app, would you like to start on a walk at night time in a forest?

Whoa…red flags!” You have to start with your horses where you both feel safe. That might be in your pasture, by the gate, so that you are both calm enough to learn.

After that is established, you choose the best join-up game to try.

Harmony Horsemanship games include: mirroring, the quadrants game, owning space, 45 degree angle draw, be interesting and cheek hold.

Partridge recommends viewing them online to understand them better. If you pick one and it doesn’t work, choose the next one! None of these involve chasing slowly because joinup means the horse comes to say “hi”, has a greeting and will follow .you Then you start your ABC’s which are the eight possible things a horse can do. These include up, down, forward, backward, hops, shoulders, neutral (halt or no response) and sideways. If you have a low energy horse, you can start with head down and pick up hooves. If you have a fast, forward horse, you might choose forward and backward so they are entertained with what you are doing.

When with a horse, you have to ask yourself if you are a threat or a treat. “You need to be the happy place that your horse wants to go to,” said Partridge. You can use scratches or treats. Remember, though, that scratches take more time than food.

“Food is like money. It is quick and universal,” she said. Either way, the idea is that the person is the reward.

Hand Touch is Key In some programs, you teach a horse to follow a target but then you have to bring your target with you.

“So I use my hand as the target,” she said. Hand with palm down is the target to follow. Hand with palm up is the signal for getting a treat.

The hand target can also be used to calm a horse down. Excited horses have their heads held high but if your horse will follow the hand, put your hand low to “help diffuse the situation.”

The hand touch also helps a

distractible horse. Each time they look away, you ask for a hand touch to keep the horses connected to you.

The idea of hand touch is that when they complete a task, they check with their human. “It creates a cycle in their brain,” said Partridge.

As you get more developed with your hand touch, you move your hand to get them to follow you and move in circles.

We need more draw not drive A draw is anything that asks your horse to come to you. A drive is anything pushing your horse away, especially backing them up or pushing shoulders. “You don’t need to do anything to back them — it can all be done passively when you understand their quadrants and drive lines,” explained Partridge.

You have to be careful, when first building relationships, that you don’t ask too much. If you keep asking more and more of the horse without rewards, the horse will check out. It takes time to build a bond and relationship until the horse just wants to hang out with you and do things.

Horses are similar to toddlers, you want them looking at you as their guardian. As they get more confident and experienced, they can go longer without looking at you and the hand.

When you put your horses away, the last thing needs to be a draw.

Whether it's a stall or back to the field, you finish with putting your hand out as a target. It can finish with a touch, then you turn and walk away. So their last experience with you is positive. ◊

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Recipes by Carolyn Crawford

Thinking about citrus as spring approaches

T

he first quarter of 2024 is now behind us and hopefully spring has sprung. About this time of year, citrus fruits help us to have more energy and feel fresh.

We often use lemon-scented cleaners when doing our spring cleaning. Oranges, lemons, and limes are often associated with spring here in Canada. These fruits are shipped to us from many parts of the world.

At the end of February, I returned from Florida with a little of that Florida sunshine.

It was unseasonably cool this year and the cloudier skies made for a little less sunshine than normal. My friends and I headed a little farther south this year and made it to the most southerly point of the continental U.S. – Key West.

At one time, Key limes were grown in abundance in the Florida Keys. Key limes are not like regular limes seen in grocery stores today.

They are much smaller and are more sour or “puckery” than Persian limes—the more commonly sold variety. Floridians do not grow as many Key limes as they used to so much so that they rely on supply from Mexico and other tropical locations.

Key lime pie, however, is alive and well and is still touted as the most favourite dessert in the sunshine state. This decadent dessert has been around since sweetened condensed milk was invented by Gail Borden in the mid 1850s but recipes for the actual key lime pie did not show up in print until the 1920s. One of the first widely circulated recipes is known as “Aunt Sally’s Key Lime Pie”. Yours truly, with three bottles of key lime juice packed in her suitcase, could not wait to come home and try it herself. It was pretty darn good and very easy to make. If you are looking for a challenging recipe to test your baking skills, key lime pie is not your recipe. But if you need a quick, hurry dessert, this is it!

Aunt Sally’s Key Lime Pie The accounts from David Sloan’s “Key Lime Pie An Intriguing History 32 The Rural Voice

of Key West’s Native Dessert” and “The Key West Key Lime Pie Cookbook'' tell us that Key Lime Pie was first created in the Curry Household in 1894 by Aunt Sally —

a cook who worked for the Curry family whose original home is located up the street from the most southerly point of the continental U.S.. By Sloan’s own admission the

Key lime zest and juice add some zing to Key Lime Muffins (top). Kermit from Kermit’s Key Lime Story in Key West, Florida, holds a pie from his mother’s famous recipe. He claims that his mother’s recipe is the best but Carolyn Crawford’s grandson, Quinton, might beg to differ after eating a Key lime pie made for his 14th birthday using Aunt Sally’s Key Lime Pie recipe.

very first recipe is difficult to pinpoint but this recipe is certainly one of the earliest using graham cracker crust.

I will caution that this recipe uses raw egg yolks that may not completely cook in the oven in the time that meringue bakes. You may want to make sure you use pasteurized eggs when making this recipe. I did not, but I made sure they were fresh from the grocery store.

Keep this pie refrigerated.

Ingredients: 4 eggs, separated ½ cup key lime juice 1 14 oz (300 ml) can sweetened condensed milk (NOT evaporated milk) 1/3 cup sugar 1 pinch of cream of tartar 1 8” graham cracker crust: Mix and press into pie plate: 1 ½ cup graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup white sugar, 6 tbsp butter, melted Directions: Beat egg yolks until light and thick. Blend in lime juice, then milk stirring until mixture thickens. Pour mixture into prepared pie shell. Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff. Gradually beat in sugar, beating until glossy peaks form. Spread egg white mixture over surface of pie to edge of crust. Bake in 350°F oven until golden brown, about 20 minutes. Chill well before serving.

Since I had more juice to use, I needed to make muffins for a guest coming so I found this recipe dated March 26, 2017, by Ellen Folkman from her website at https://familyaroundthetable.com/key -lime-muffins/ .

Key Lime Muffins Ingredients: 2 cups sifted flour 1 cup sugar 3 tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt ¼ cup milk 2 eggs lightly beaten ½ cup vegetable oil 1 tsp Key lime zest ½ cup Key lime juice Key Lime Glaze Ingredients: ½ cup confectioners’ sugar 2-3 tbsp Key lime juice 1 tsp Key lime zest

Directions: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease (I used butter) a 12-cup muffin pan and set aside.

Sift together the flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder into a large bowl.

In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, oil, milk, juice, and zest. Add, all at once, to the flour mixture. Stir lightly with a fork just until moist, batter will be lumpy.

Spoon into greased muffin cups, filling each just over half full.

Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden and they test done.

Remove muffins from pan to wire rack to cool.

Once cool, glaze with Key lime glaze. To make glaze: In a small bowl, combine glaze ingredients.

Drizzle over cooled muffins. As a garnish, sprinkle some lime zest on top. My personal note: The glaze is needed as muffins are a little drier than I expected. Next time I make these, I will use melted butter instead of oil.

Florida’s strawberry season begins as the last of the citrus crops are finishing up. Just like our strawberry rhubarb combination seems like a match made in heaven, so is a combination of strawberry and lemon.

Strawberry Lemon Blondies This recipe dated March 25, 2021, is from Sue Moran from her website at: https://theviewfromgreatisland. com/strawberry-lemon-blondiesrecipe/ Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature ¾ cup sugar 1 large egg ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice 2 ¼ cups all purpose flour ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt 1 cup diced strawberries Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted (measure out your sugar before sifting) 1 tbsp strawberry purée (you will need 2 large strawberries) Lemon juice, about 1 tbsp, or just enough to thin the glaze to a spreadable consistency Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper with long edges. This is optional but will help you lift out the blondies for easy glazing and slicing later.

Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg. When the egg is fully incorporated, beat in the lemon juice. The lemon juice will probably not completely incorporate at this point; that is okay.

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, and add to the wet ingredients, mixing until no more dry flour is present.

Gently fold in the diced strawberries.

Spread the mixture into your pan and spread out as evenly as possible with a large offset spatula.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, just until starting to turn golden around the edges and the centre is set. A toothpick inserted in the centre will be moist but not wet. Do not overbake these, or they will dry out.

Let cool on a rack.

For glaze, trim the strawberries and purée in a small food processor.

Strain the purée through a small strainer to get 1 tbsp of puree. Whisk together the sugar, puree, and lemon juice until no lumps remain. If your glaze is too thin, add a touch more sugar. If it is too thick, add more lemon juice. Spread the glaze over .the cooled blondies You can try this with diced rhubarb, blueberries, or raspberries or combine strawberries and rhubarb.

Another citrus muffin recipe is Edna Staebler’s Date Orange Muffins. These things are addictive!

Edna Staebler’s Date Orange Muffins Ingredients: 2 whole oranges ½ cup orange juice taken from one of the oranges ½ cup chopped pitted dates 1 egg ½ cup butter 1 ½ cups flour 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp baking powder 2/3 cup white sugar 1 tsp salt Directions: Preheat oven to 400°F. Juice one April 2024 33

orange. Rinse and dry the second orange but do not peel it.

Roughly chop the dates, checking that there are no pits.

Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease the tin with butter.

Cut the whole orange into 4, 6, or 8 pieces and remove any seeds. Drop the orange pieces into a food processor with the half cup orange juice and process until the peel is finely chopped. Drop in the dates and egg and butter (butter does not have to be room temperature); process just enough to combine.

In a bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Pour wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir lightly with a wooden spoon or spatula — just enough to moisten.

Spoon the batter into muffin tins and bake at 400F for about 15-20 minutes. These store well at room temperature in a covered tin or can be frozen and used as needed.

Candied peel is very easy to make.

You can make your own candied peel from any citrus fruit peel.

Candied Citrus Peel Recipe is from www.Eataly.ca Ingredients: 6 thick-skinned fruit citrus 4½ cups sugar ½ cup water Directions: Cut the tops and bottoms off of the fruit. Lightly score it into quarters, but do not cut into it. Peel off the skin and the pith of the fruit in large pieces. Cut the peel into ¼-inch strips.

Place the peel in a pot with just enough water to cover it. Bring to a boil over high heat. Pour out the water and repeat twice.

Heat the sugar and water over high heat, and simmer for 8-9 minutes until at a softball stage. Add the peels, and simmer gently. Cook until the peels become translucent, about 45 minutes. Do not stir. Let the peels cool, and then enjoy as a snack or as a garnish for a dessert.

Boiling any citrus provides your kitchen with a naturally fresh scent that will make you think of spring even if the weather is not springlike.◊ 34 The Rural Voice

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Gardening Rhea Hamilton‐ Seeger is a skilled cook and gardener who lives in Goderich.

Spice up your meals with herbs in the garden

I

was poring over a few articles on growing herbs and started remembering plants we munched on as children. What plants do you remember eating?

My Dad loved watercress in the spring and taught us what to look for.

Tender and peppery, it was always a treat. So, too, were the mints along the water’s edge. I would take my kids to the river to pick peppermint to dry for tea in the winter.

Another treat for us was spring ramps, or wild leeks. They are powerfully strong and delightful in soups, especially in creamed potato soup. Their leaves are easy to spot in the early spring, I think they look a tad like lily of the valley leaves, narrow at the top, widening through the centre and they have reddish stems. The bulb is similar to a wee white onion. But before you head out to forage along the bush edges this spring consider their life cycle: from seed sprouts to when the plant can produce its own seed, plus two years for seeds to germinate, takes about 10 years.

So try growing Garlic Chives.

They are a hardy perennial that can survive harsh winters although this winter was no real test for them.

They are lovely along the front of the border of either your vegetable garden or integrated into your perennial garden. Their star-shaped flowers bloom early and are great for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. And you can eat both the flowers and the leaves. Chives tolerate dry spots along with sunshine.

I always gravitate towards dill. It makes my mouth water just thinking about it. I have a tendency to hoard my herbs. In other words I hate to cut them. I love that they are waving to me from the garden but I really have to make a concerted effort to cut them and integrate them into our meals. A few feathery branches in a lunch omelet or melted in a bit of butter over new potatoes or beans is heavenly.

Dill is so easy to grow and there are so many different varieties. I am trying an Ambrosia Dill from Richters this spring; early to mature, slow to bolt and a longer season. It is a shorter variety but has a dense lateral branching habit for a dense yield. I will split a package of seeds into four piles and plant a week to 10 days apart for staggered crop in bare spots in the perennial garden.

I already have spearmint in the garden. It is a lonely plant, secure in a large pot at the edge of the vegetable garden. I had a few cups of tea with fresh leaves and dried a cookie sheet more for the winter. I let it steep longer and add a dollop of local honey. Good for you!

Almost all mints can be thugs in the garden and planting them in sunken containers keeps them in check. While they love moist, not soggy conditions they will manage on what you give them. Besides spearmint and peppermint, there are quite a large number of other tasty choices: apple mint, Moroccan, Vietnamese, menthol, pineapple, chocolate and of course mojito mint!

Richters has quite a number of mints and their relatives, including Agastache, herb of the year in 2019.

I have ordered seeds for Hairy Mountain-Mint, Pycnanthemum pilosum. This is a tall (three feet/a little less than a metre), bushy, perennial favourite of bees, wasps, beetles and moths. Average soil, full sun and enough moisture will get it started but it will tolerate drier conditions. The seeds are tiny and growers differ on whether to start indoors or direct sow. I am going to direct sow in the garden with the addition of light soil, and gently press the seeds as they need light to germinate. And like all the other

mints you can consume it.

Then there is Silverleaf Mountainmint! It is an eastern North American native, with silvery-white upper leaves and white lavender tinged and purple spotted flowers in late summer. Not only will I be excited to see this one in our garden but so will the bees, butterflies and moths.

The last herb I am planting again in the garden is basil. I tried the Thai basil last year and only pinched a few leaves. It was not real happy in the garden, although it grew quite a bit. It has very small leaves and I think I was worried about over pinching. It came into the house last fall and sits by the sink. A pinch now and then is nice in our meals. It will be exiting the house once the cold has passed and into the ground.

The larger leafed basils – Mammoth and Genovese – grow best in fertile soil with adequate drainage, and air flow to reduce fungal mold problems. Hence growing in pots is a plus. The large leaves can be gently pulled apart and added to salads or laid out in a grilled cheese sandwich.

I make pesto and freeze it in convenient sizes. It is great used in soups, on pizza and of course worked into hot pasta with the addition of olive oil and more parmesan cheese.

It looks great in the garden, yes among your favourite bloomers.

I would be sorely remiss if I did not tell you about my newest book The Gardener’s Guide to Native Plants of the Southern Great Lakes Region by Rick Gray and Shaun Booth. If you are interested in any way about native plants this is the definitive guide. It has good colour photos, several for each species; a quick guide at the top to show you the plant’s key qualities and growth habits; and propagation methods. I like the section regarding skill level.

We all know what we are comfortable growing and this helps us determine if this is a good fit for a beginner or a more experienced gardener. Most are good for beginners. It is a must have in your library of gardening books so check your local book seller. I would even call it a coffee table book! Anyone who sees it picks it up! ◊

April 2024 35

Advice

• Prepared by the OFA •

Deadstock management in Ontario Addressing challenges and searching for solutions, an article by the Ontario Federation of Agriculture Editor’s Note: In response to the excellent story written by Hetty Stuart featuring Tom Smith of Atwood Resources Inc., in the January issue of The Rural Voice, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture asked if they could write this article about deadstock management. Here it is. ortalities happen. Ontario’s livestock farmers use up-todate, high standards of care and production practices to avoid or decrease on-farm mortalities of their animals. Unfortunately, it’s an unavoidable and unfortunate part of the job. When it happens, farmers understand the incredible importance of handling and disposing of those animals in a safe, responsible, and proper manner, while minimizing the impact on human and animal health, food safety, and the environment.

But in Ontario, the options for the safe and practical disposal of deadstock are becoming increasingly limited.

Deadstock management has no one-size-fits-all solution. Best management practices require farmers to dispose of deadstock in a way that protects the spread of disease, avoids water contamination, and controls other nuisances such as odours and scavengers. To make it more complicated, regulations require deadstock to be disposed of within 48 hours.

Previously, deadstock was safely turned into valuable and useable products; hides and tissues were rendered down into leather products, pet foods and other valued items.

Unfortunately, this is no longer the reality, and farmers are left shouldering the stress, burden and expense of deadstock disposal.

When Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) was discovered in Canada in 2003, cattle carcasses were rendered unusable

M

36 The Rural Voice

and no longer held value; the resulting federal and provincial regulations regarding the management of deadstock and slaughter cattle became rigorous, burdensome and expensive, requiring separation and disposal of higher-risk materials, called Specified Risk Material (SRM). Those regulations continue to this day. Now, the accessibility of rendering facilities and restriction of their services, availability of licensed deadstock collectors, increasing regulations, limited alternative solutions, and escalating costs, make the disposal of deadstock even more challenging and expensive for Ontario farmers.

The importance of deadstock management has once again become the focus of attention, with respect to emergency management. The recent Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and the threat of African Swine Fever have brought to light the critical importance of planning and being prepared for an animal health emergency and identified the shortfalls of currently available disposal options for our province’s farmers should a mass mortality event occur. Part of responsible livestock farming involves having a plan for deadstock, including preparation for if the preferred disposal option suddenly becomes unavailable, or if an animal health emergency arises and mass depopulation or mortalities occur.

In Ontario, the options for the disposal of deadstock are dictated by two main pieces of provincial legislation: Nutrient Management Act, 2002 (NMA), and the Food Safety and Quality Act, 2001 (FSQA). Both Acts, and their subsequent regulations, aim to minimize risks to food safety, animal and human, health, and the environment. However, other aspects of deadstock management are

covered in additional regulations, including the Environmental Protection Act, Health of Animals Act, Provincial Animal Health Act, and Fertilizers Regulations.

Additional requirements exist for the management of SRM from cattle.

While a myriad of legal options exists to dispose of deadstock, not all choices are ideal or practical, and each comes with its own set of limitations.

Burial on-farm is straightforward, but time-consuming and requires resources such as large equipment to dig holes – and that’s if the land is even suitable for burial to happen in the first place. Not all land is created equal. Soil conditions must be appropriate, with dry, well-draining, and medium-fine materials. The site must be far enough away from neighbours, other burial pits, and other livestock areas, and located away from water sources so as not to contaminate surface and groundwater. Conditions also exist for the burial pit, such as depth, maximum volume of carcasses, soil coverage, and monitoring requirements. If burial is a viable choice on your farm, that option becomes virtually impossible in the winter, when the ground is frozen.

Done right, composting is another option for deadstock disposal that produces a valued product to use onfarm afterward. The resulting compost can be applied to fields for added nutrients. At first glance, composting seems like a straightforward option. However, composting deadstock is not as simple as adding a carcass to a manure pile to decompose; composting is labour and timeintensive, requires good management, and routine monitoring.

Regulations require specified sizes of compost piles, depths, ratios of organic matter to alternate compost,

little and large setbacks to nearby wells, surface water features, neighbouring homes and parks, and residential areas amongst other conditions. Other challenges include reaching high enough temperatures to destroy pathogens and parasites, equipment, odours, scavengers, the potential for water (surface and ground) contamination, and land availability for spreading the finished .compost, as it must remain on-farm Incineration is a viable option for the disposal of smaller livestock species. It uses fuel to achieve extremely high temperatures, reducing the carcasses to inert ash. It is also the ideal option for disease management, as the high temperatures destroy all pathogens.

However, incinerators must have a secondary chamber capable of maintaining interior gases and temperatures and meet all location and other criteria outlined in the Nutrient Management Act. Disposal vessels are a cheap, non-labourintensive method for the disposal of smaller deadstock. Normally, these vessels are placed on the ground surface or can be partially or fully buried, and deadstock is placed inside to decompose naturally. This method is limited by the volume and rate of filling.

While it seems that farmers have a lot of options on-farm to deal with mortalities, the reality is that cost, labour, suitability of land, and the aspect of disease prevention and maintaining environmental health make on-farm disposal impractical, if not impossible. Biosecurity is of the utmost importance on Ontario farms and plays a critical role in keeping the agri-food system safe and sustainable. The best and easiest way to keep animals, people, and the food chain safe, is to get deadstock offfarm.

Farmers can have deadstock collected and delivered to different places for disposal, including waste disposal sites, anaerobic digesters, licensed disposal facilities, or to a veterinarian for post-mortem.

However, this option has many requirements, such as the ability to clean and sanitize the transporting container, and follow other federal regulations if transporting cattle, due

to SRM and relevant permitting. In Ontario, increasing restrictions and challenges are making collection less readily available. While collection used to be the preferred (and simplest) option for farmers, the limited availability of services in many parts of the province, and rising costs have farmers looking for alternative options.

The challenges Ontario farmers face with respect to on-farm mortalities require urgent solutions.

With collection and rendering services on the decline, and with the

limitations and burden associated with legal alternative solutions, deadstock disposal needs to be at the forefront of livestock discussions.

OFA continues to work with stakeholders and the government to find practical and affordable solutions for Ontario’s livestock farmers.

For more information on deadstock and how it affects Ontario livestock farmers, please visit our website at ofa.on.ca. ◊ ~Submitted by Danie Glanc, Farm Policy Analyst, OFA

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Advice

• By Lisa Boonstoppel-Pot •

Agrimentor looking for volunteer mentors Agrimentor matches mentors with entrepreneurial farm women to increase their success in agriculture

T

he number of women in agriculture is growing and a new mentorship program will support the entrepreneurial needs of farm women.

Called Agrimentor, the program is being launched by the Ontario Federation of Agriculture as an offshoot of Dimension E, a program that “cultivates one’s agriculture potential” and is based in Quebec.

Both are national programs under the overarching program called Agricultirces du Quebec and are funded by the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES), a Government of Canada initiative.

Austin Brown, who is part of the OFA research team presented the idea of Agrimentor during an online workshop held February 28 to encourage both potential mentors and mentees to apply for the program.

“It’s a great program,” he said.

“At OFA we are proud of our female farm members and recognize the need to support women in agriculture.”

OFA is representative of the growing number of women involved in agriculture. The OFA board of directors is 38 per cent women and the past president was a woman. The general manager is a woman and the staff is 65 per cent female.

“Nationally the number of farm operators has gone down but the number of farm operator women has risen nationally to about 30.4 per cent of all farm operators,” said Brown. “In Ontario we are above the national average as 31 per cent of our farm operators are women.”

The agrimentor program is a matching program where volunteer mentors meet online or in person with mentees.

Mentors are expected to: ● provide a critical assessment of the subjects discussed with mentees 38 The Rural Voice

without influencing their decisions ● contribute to the mentee’s development by sharing experience and knowledge while respecting confidentiality ● provide constructive feedback to help mentees progress Mentees can expect to receive: ● support in professional and personal development in various

areas including leadership, time management, priority management, problem solving, strategic planning, effective communication and much more ● guidance in defining your objectives while considering other opportunities ● an opportunity to extend your professional network

Farm women can now find support and encouragement via the Agrimentor program being launched by the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.

“When you sign up for Agrimentor, you can expect to be in the program for six months,” explained Brown.

A pilot project on the program revealed members which they’d had a mentor before because it had a “tonne of value.”

Side benefits of the program included mentees feeling more motivated knowing their mentor was encouraging them. Also, some mentees learn better from watching and listening as opposed to reading.

Having a mentor discuss ideas with them greatly improved their information uptake. Also, potentially, lifelong friendships can develop within the program’s framework.

Mentors who volunteer for Agrimentor receive training with the most recent training held on March 26. Anyone interested in becoming either a mentor or mentee can look up the Agrimentor program online or type in this address: https://ucfo.ca/agrimentor-individualmentoring/#mentore ◊

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April 2024 39

People

• By Gary West •

Satchell’s “signature” voice still delights crowds

R

andy Satchell of Mitchell has travelled the world playing country music.

Born in Gadshill, north of Stratford, Randy began singing in music festivals in Stratford through his public school years.

At the ripe old age of nine, he began playing in his father’s (Milt Satchell) country and western band, and at 15, started his own band called Town and Country Gentlemen, playing at dances, weddings and reunions.

A few years later he introduced country music fans to his second band called Tyme, and country music enthusiasts could dance to their favourite songs throughout the area almost every weekend in towns all across Southwestern Ontario.

Randy is a licensed plumber by day and past jobs have included supervisor of maintenance at Ritz Villa senior’s residence in Mitchell, along with being a volunteer firefighter for 30 years in West Perth, at the Mitchell Station.

During his career, Randy won the Canadian Open Country Singing Contest in 1981 and 1982 and later was asked to be the head judge for 20 years until the contest came to an end.

Satchell has been on stage at Wheeling West in Virginia; the Chew-Chew country festival in Burlington, Vermont; the Fox Mountain Country Music Festival in Nova Scotia and has even strummed his guitar and sang in far away places like Zimbabwe, Cuba and China.

He says he has always enjoyed the guest appearances on “Barn Dance” shows where there was never a dull moment.

In 1991 he got to record his first CD called Memories. He, along with Jay Riehl and the South Mountain country band, all took their show on the road for a European tour.

Three years later Randy released This is My Life. Both his albums were recorded near his birthplace in 40 The Rural Voice

Ellice Township, at Jay Riehl’s recording studio, backed by Jay’s South Mountain band.

Both CD’s include original songs and cover some of Randy’s favourite recording artists like Merle Haggard and original songs written by Doug Dietrich.

His latest recording spent two weeks in the top five on AM 920, CKNX radio in Wingham, which shows his unwavering following in Central and Southern Ontario.

Randy has new material ready for his third CD and hopes to be back in the recording studio in the near future.

Country recording artist Grant Heywood has been quoted as saying, “Many country singers and songwriters are blessed with a great voice, and then there are those who have earned the status of having a ‘signature’ voice. Randy Satchell is definitely in that Randy Satchell (right) sang at the Mitchell Community Centre last week. The country singer has travelled the world over the year singing with bandmates such as (below, left to right) Doug Dietrich, Grant Heywood, Randy, George Lonsbury and Al Anderson.

category”.

Nowadays Randy and his wife Carol enjoy playing with good friends and musicians at local dance halls and community centres, while also doing solo gigs for the enjoyment of senior residences in the area of Perth .County and beyond He has always found time for his family that includes a son, daughter and four grandchildren.

Manager Carol Satchell invites everyone to their Tuesday, May 14 couples dance from 2-4 in Mitchell’s Crystal Palace. ◊

Buttertart Champion

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After entering her butter tarts and winning at the 2023 edition of the Tavistock Fall Fair, she was convinced to enter her tasty tarts at District 7, which includes 19 agricultural Societies and fairs that go all the way from Aberfoyle to Arthur, Paris to Tilsonburg and Wellesley to Woodstock.

She won there too, and went on to compete at the Ontario Association of Agriculture Societies. Her butter tarts were awarded the reserve champion rosette!

The encouragement to enter her baking into competition came from her 24-year-old daughter, Chantelle, who would also encourage young bakers to enter in the Tavistock Fall Fair baking competition in various categories in the future.

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Buyers and investment funds are reluctant purchasers

W

AGRICULTURAL • RESIDENTIAL • INDUSTRIAL • COMMERCIAL

42 The Rural Voice

Scott Krakar is a Grain Merchandiser with LAC Inc., Hyde Park, 519‐473‐9333

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hen one surveys the agricultural market headlines, you notice a consistent theme. Unfortunately for growers, this theme is one of burdensome grain stocks and correspondingly lower-priced grain markets. Headlines have focused on events such as growing inventories in Brazil, rains relieving crops in Argentina, EU wheat slipping to new lows, Russia and Ukraine collectively shipping record volumes and many other headlines such as this. Along with these headlines comes low prices.

It’s not just agriculture markets that have poor sentiment. Generally most people have an unenthusiastic sentiment towards the economy and the economic outlook. This is different from just a few years ago, when it seemed that most had a favorable outlook to the economy, when cash croppers had an optimistic outlook for grain prices also. What caused this change in sentiment?

While there are many factors at play in this dynamic and ever-changing outlook, interest rates have moved significantly to the upside, as we all know.

The purpose of higher rates is to slow the consumption of goods and services. This repressive policy is intended to lower prices because as demand falls, prices fall also. We know that agriculture is a capital

Markets intensive industry. Equipment, inputs, land (purchase and rent) are all highpriced and have a large requirement for financing. Financing costs are high because of interest rate increases – this is obvious. But financing costs affect farmers in other ways too, because borrowing costs and expected rates of return affect other’s behaviors also.

We understand that there is less incentive to own something, if it costs you money to own it.

Speculators use their own capital for investments, or they borrow in order to finance their trade positions. If they use their own capital for investments, they want to achieve a higher return than what borrowing costs are. Likewise if they borrow the funds, they need to make more than their finance charges, because if they do not make a return, then they have no reason to own crop futures.

Therefore, because of the high cost of borrowing, speculators are reluctant buyers unless the outlook is for crop futures to rally more than their cost of borrowing. This is not the environment today as crop inventories are sufficient for world demands. Similarly, nations who purchase grains also have limited interest in stockpiling supplies. They see that world inventories are sufficient so that there isn’t a supply shortage when they do eventually purchase, and carrying inventory is expensive… so what’s the rush in them purchasing grain until they need it?

Given the fundamental backdrop and the high-debt carrying costs, we see how buyers and investment funds are reluctant purchasers. And if ownership doesn’t pay owing grains, then what happens if they take the opposite position? So we ask, what have the funds been doing? The funds have been aggressively selling corn and soy futures, anticipating prices fall given the market situation that we have discussed. Managed money funds have sold record amounts of grain futures and heavy selling has pushed prices to contract lows.

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Markets these beans come to market soy prices continue to languish, with Brazilian beans much cheaper than US inventory. As harvest is ongoing in South America, it is unlikely that the market will see much of a bounce, as large supplies will be coming to market. Argentina will have good supplies for sale this year also in the spring. Remember that Argentina had a major drought last year and this season their crop production is expected to normalize. Argentine crushers are ready and waiting for harvest to occur after a year of reduced crush, due to their small crop size last year. American soy producers and crushers have been the beneficiary of this reduced Argentine volume in the past year. As Argentina’s harvest ramps up in April the world will see a large bump higher in soy product availability as more alternative origins come to market.

But with all the negative news there is growing conversation about U.S. production this year, albeit we are very early to be overly concerned at this stage. We have seen warm, rather dry weather this winter, not only locally but also throughout the Midwest. While it may be early, we do see the possibility that Midwest weather may not be what is currently expected. As we roll into the planting season, likely early, with the warm/dry weather, all eyes will be on longer-term summer forecasts. If we do see an adverse forecast – continued dryness or extreme heat – we could see the market rally. With the funds already short, a sharp and fast rally could not be ruled out if a ◊.poor growing season looks possible

Call for skid pricing

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April 2024 45

Woodlots Donna Lacey is a forester with the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority

My most unique find in the woods...

Every February, the organization known as Forests Ontario holds its annual conference and general meeting. This conference tends to bring out academics, professionals, forest owners, and other interested parties which results in some great conversations during the breaks.

Each year seems to have a bigger agenda, with this year’s conference being no exception. While there were many very informative sessions delivered by great presenters, my favourite session was on forest history.

The forest history session was a panel session with three speakers.

The first speaker was a county forest manager who spoke on the history of the forests in which she works. As she was not originally from the area, she didn’t have any background knowledge of the histories of the many properties that the county owned. So, this is where she made an investigative move that, embarrassingly, I have never thought to make to learn about the forests that I manage. She approached the local historical society and asked for information on properties where she had found remnants of settlements.

How smart was that? Ask the people that are most interested in local history about the property’s history. When she reached out to them, she was introduced to a lady that knew much of the history without having to do any research, as she grew up in the area of the property and remembered the history.

I look forward to using this approach and expanding my knowledge of properties. A few times when I have been out on one of our properties, I have met family members of 46 The Rural Voice

previous owners who kindly shared their memories of the properties and appreciation for being able to continue to access the lands.

Often in a forest, sometimes deep into forest, there are stone fence lines, foundations, garbage dumps and wrecked cars. More telling, you’ll find lilac trees and daylilies.

Not only looking at the approximate tree age and species present, but these other hints tell us that the land was likely once cleared for agriculture, as clearing was required to gain title from the Crown for much of southern Ontario.

According to the Forest Certification Council, one of the few organizations that will certify that forests are sustainably managed, occurrences of foundations and other signs of settlement must be retained as culturally significant sites. Forests that are certified under this program must protect the remnants, which means no tree cutting onto the site, no bulldozing and no disruption.

The next speaker spoke on tree species that we have lost through history and one species that we never

even knew existed. Fossilized spruce cones were discovered through the last century in the United States and were assumed to be white spruce. In the 1990s, analysis in a lab provided the information to complete the proper classification of these cones.

They looked like extra-long white spruce cones but were found to be a new species. The Critchfield’s spruce is the only known tree species that went extinct at the end of the Pleistocene ice age. As a person that doesn’t know the ice age timelines, I had to look up how long ago this tree lived. Chritchfield’s spruce went extinct 11,000 years ago.

The next interesting tree species from history covered was less of a scientific celebration and a bit more of an embarrassment. In many publications you will find that mockernut hickory exists naturally in isolated pockets in southern Ontario.

In the late 1900s, scientists analyzed samples of the mockernut hickory trees that were kept in storage to verify their classification as no mockernut trees had been observed in the areas that the trees were recorded

Deep in the woods, searchers can find the remnants of former homesteads.

Sometimes you might stumble on an old foundation, garbage dumps or wrecked cars. Donna Lacey’s favourite find was this old windmill surrounded by planted spruce trees.

to have been. These samples were found to be either shagbark or shellbark hickory, they were either misidentified or mislabeled. This tree is in one of my college textbooks as occurring in Canada, but is not in the more modern identification publications. Mockernut hickory does occur naturally in the United States. Mockernut hickory wood is said to be better hickory and must make some pretty nice handles.

Both Chritchfield’s spruce and mockernut hickory are quite possibly trees that most people have never heard of. The next species covered were American chestnut, the American elm, and the lingering ash.

There are recovery programs in place for both chestnut and elm, and there is archiving of seed from lingering ash. The recovery of chestnut focuses on the resistance to chestnut blight, which was responsible for the widespread mortality of the tree.

Since the 1970s, scientists have been trying to find and rear elms that are Dutch elm disease resistant. On many

occasions it has appeared that the program had a promising genetic specimen only to have the trees succumb over time.

The call is out to all forest owners or naturalists to notify the Forest Gene Conservation Association if they notice an ash tree that seems to be able to withstand many attempts of invasion by the emerald ash borer.

These ash that seem to be able to fight against the attacks are referred to as lingering ash. There is hope that seed from these trees will produce trees that will also be able to withstand multiple emerald ash borer attacks.

To end on a more positive note, we have so many wonderful forest areas, many of which hold secrets that only those that invest the time to research history will uncover. My favourite findings are the old farm foundations, cars, and dumpsites. I am, however, sharing a photo of my most unique finding, a somewhat intact windmill surrounded by planted spruce trees. ◊

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Huron­Perth Woodlot Association Annual Spring Tour, Luncheon & AGM Saturday, April 27th, 2024, 9:30 am to 2 pm, Sebringville area Birds of Prey demonstration by the Canadian Raptor Conservancy Sawmilling demonstration and tour of Matt Koch Hardwoods Guest speakers on tree planting and woodlot improvement funding opportunities Lunch, silent auction and door prizes for members and their guests RSVP to hpwoodlot@gmail.com or phone H­P President Terry Hoover at 519­998­5712

For memberships and woodlot information visit: www.ontariowoodlot.com

April 2024 47

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48 The Rural Voice

John D. Goudy is a partner in Scott Petrie LLP Law Firm, and also farms north of London.

A

recent decision of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice tells a sad tale of sisters fighting over the family farm. The 100-acre farm with a two-storey farmhouse and bank barn had been in their mother’s family since the 1920s. By the time the father died in the late2000s, the mother was living in a long-term care home, incapable of managing her property. Her four daughters held power of attorney for property, but could not agree on how to manage the property including the farm. For five long years, the sisters engaged in “bitter litigation”, launching court actions back and forth.

Things looked up by the end of 2015 when the sisters resolved their litigation through Minutes of Settlement. They agreed to structure their mother’s property so that it would be divided equally among the sisters consistent with the wording of their mother’s will. With respect to the farm, though, the will and a codicil to the will directed that the farm not be sold for one year after the mother’s death “to enable one or more of my children to find a way to keep it in the family, failing which the farm shall be sold and the proceeds shall form a part of the residue of my estate. It is my fervent wish that my children will assist one another in ensuring that, if at all possible, the farm will remain in the ownership of one or more of them.”

The sisters’ mother passed away in late-2020, triggering a countdown of sorts towards dealing with the farm property. By the mother’s date of death, the farm was valued at approximately $1.9 million.

However, in 2014, the farm had been appraised at $890,000 and the sisters had already agreed in their Minutes of Settlement that two of the sisters would pay the other two sisters $422,750 for the farm (being one-half of the $890,000 less $44,500 real estate commission). Each sister was entitled to one-quarter of the value of the farm property. Title to the property was to be transferred to the purchasing sisters by a closing date to be the later of a date in February, 2016 and the date on which certain of the mother’s investment assets were to be disbursed.

The farm transaction was not completed in February, 2016. By March, 2018, the transaction had still not been completed. The selling sisters wrote to the purchasing sisters stating: “the agreement was not intended to extend over a period of time and needs to be fulfilled”. They set a deadline of April 15, 2018 for completion of the deal failing which they would conclude that the purchasing sisters didn’t “intend to fulfill the Minutes of Settlement” and would “take the appropriate course of action.”

Fast-forward to 2022 and the purchasing sisters commenced a court application asking the Court to order that they could pay $422,750 to the selling sisters and that the selling sisters would have to transfer to the purchasing sisters title to the farm.

Again, as at the time of the mother’s passing in 2020, the farm had been valued at about $1.9 million – a $422,750 purchase price would represent a discount on the 2020 value of the farm of more than 50 per cent. It was the court application brought by the purchasing sisters that culminated in the recent Superior Court decision.

Madam Justice C. D. Braid heard the application and concluded the following: 1) the Minutes of Settlement were a contract between the sisters; 2) the purchasing sisters “repudiated” the contract by failing to complete the transaction with the selling sisters; and, 3) the selling sisters accepted the repudiation of the contract, bringing their agreement to accept $422,750 in exchange for the farm to an end. As such, the

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MORRIS SACHS SILO CONSTRUCTION New stave silos now available SILO ACCESSORIES SILOS DISMANTLED, REBUILT AND REPAIRS

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50 The Rural Voice

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purchasing sisters were no longer entitled to purchase the farm pursuant to the terms of the Minutes of Settlement.

While the purchasing sisters had never expressed an intention not to complete the transaction as required by the Minutes of Settlement, Justice Braid found that the purchasing sisters’ “extreme delay” meant they repudiated (or disavowed) their contract with the selling sisters.

Where a contract contains sufficiently clear terms about price, the property, and the parties, the Court will infer that the parties expect a transaction to be closed “within a reasonable period of time”. Where a contract doesn’t stipulate a specific time of performance, the law implies a term that the contract is to be performed “within a reasonable time”. Where delay in performance “becomes so long as to go to the root of the contract”, the contract will be considered repudiated or fundamentally breached and the party suffering the delay will be excused from performance.

Faced with repudiation of the Minutes of Settlement by the purchasing sisters, the selling sisters could have chosen to keep the contract alive and have sought to enforce the deal. However, it was their option to accept the repudiation and end the contract. With the Minutes of Settlement now unenforceable, Justice Braid ordered that the family farm be sold on the open market and the net proceeds from the sale be divided equally between the sisters in accordance with their mother’s will. Her Honour did specify that the purchasing sisters were not prohibited from making an offer to purchase the farm once it was listed, but the purchasing sisters had lost the opportunity to buy the farm at the 2014 price. ◊ ______________________________ John D. Goudy’s law practice includes real property and environmental litigation, expropriation law, energy regulation, and regulatory offences. Agrilaw provides information of interest to the farming community, not legal advice. Readers should consult a legal professional about their particular circumstance.

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News

• Press Releases •

Warden McNeil receives leadership award

D

uring the 2024 Canadian Nuclear Association conference, Huron County Warden Glen McNeil was presented the Community Leadership Award from Bruce Power.

The Community Leadership Award is in recognition for exceptional service to communities in the Grey, Bruce, and Huron Region. This award recognizes leaders who exemplify the qualities of collaboration, communication and clear vision and have made a significant and positive impact to the region.

“Huron is a proud supporter of Bruce Power and Grey and Bruce counties and the work that we do in collaboration with the Clean Energy Frontier and the Nuclear Innovation Institute,” said Warden Glen McNeil.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude for this award and to all partners that are contributing to making a greener future for our communities.” ◊

Pictured left to right: Huron County Warden Glen McNeil, Grey County Director of Economic Development, Tourism & Culture Savanna Myers (accepting award on behalf of Grey County Warden Brian Milne), Bruce County Warden Chris Peabody, and Bruce Power President & CEO Mike Rencheck.

Canadian Agriculture Literary Month celebrated agriculture in classes

A

griculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C) and its 10 provincial partners are celebrated agriculture in classrooms across the country in March during the 13th annual Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM).

With the goal of connecting students with farmers and other agriculture industry professionals, CALM is a national celebration every March to share Canada’s rich agriculture and food story with students from K to 12. AITC organizations in each province will offer uniquely different activities aimed at helping students learn about agriculture in an interactive and engaging way.

“We want to cultivate curiosity and encourage students to learn more about where their food comes from,” says Mathieu Rouleau, Executive Director of AITC-C. “CALM is a great opportunity to connect students with agriculture and share Canada’s amazing agriculture and food story.”

A new storybook, All The Farmers You Will Know, will be introduced to younger students during CALM. Written by WS Marketing, it highlights the wonders of the modern farm and the farmers and families who work and live on them.

Youth are encouraged to visit www.iamthefuture.ca to use an interactive new video tool to see themselves in a career in agriculture and food.

Last year, AITC partners from coast to coast created over 184,000 student experiences during CALM. Hundreds of industry volunteers will visit classes across Canada again 52 The Rural Voice

this March to share presentations, activities and personal stories to help students learn more about agriculture. Cargill is the presenting partner for CALM and a valued supporter of AITC-C. “The education of the next generation of agricultural leaders is vital in maintaining Canada’s strong leadership position in the global food system,” said Jeff Vassart, President, Cargill Canada. “We at Cargill are honoured to continue our support of CALM, and we share its mission of inspiring students to pursue careers that help feed the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way.”

“People who work in agriculture are passionate about what they do and proud to share their story to inspire the next generation,” says AITC-C’s Rouleau. “We are grateful for our partners and volunteers as connecting young people to agriculture is an important part of strengthening our industry and growing for the future.”

With a vision to create meaningful connections to agriculture and food, AITC-C is the national advocate for agriculture education, representing a collective of 10 provincial member organizations who deliver agriculture education on the ground across Canada. AITC-C is the umbrella organization connecting the national network to facilitate sharing and collaboration and deliver accurate, balanced, and current resources. Visit www.aitc-canada.ca to learn more. ◊

The

Rural Voice

Business Centre To place your ad call: 519-523-4311 or email: rvads@northhuron.on.ca Brad Doney Independently Owned & Operated by

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April 2024 53

N T R E

SALES & SERVICE INSTALLATION & PARTS

Non-GMO & Organic Seed sales, seed cleaning, drying & licensed truck scale A complete line of nutritionally balanced Non-GMO feeds Roasted soybean sales and custom roasting

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54 The Rural Voice

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WINGHAM

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TRUCKS

2018 Ford F150 crew cab, 4x4, 167,000 km .................$36,500 2018 GMC Sierra ext. cab, 4x4, 249,000 km ................$18,995 2017 Ford F150 reg. cab, 4x4, 310,000 km ..................$13,500 2017 GMC Sierra ext. cab, 277,000 km ......................$18,995 2016 GMC Sierra crew, 4x4, 228,000 km .....................$18,995 2016 Chev Canyon 160,000 km...................................$16,500 2014 Dodge Ram 210,000 km ......................................$18,995 2014 Dodge Ram 210,000 km ......................................$16,500 2009 Dodge Dakota 288,000 km....................................$4,995 2008 Ford F350 268,000 km AS IS .................................$5,995

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2019 Dodge Grand Caravan GT 137,000 km . . . . . .SOLD 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan GT 182,000 km . . . . . .SOLD 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan 249,000 km . . . . . . . . .$8,995 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan 173,000 km . . . . . . . . . .SOLD 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan 180,000 km . . . . . . . . .$8,995 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan 160,000 km . . . . . . . . .$7,995 2009 Chev Express 3500 225,000 km . . . . . . . . . . . .$6,500

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2019 Nissan Versa SV 112,000 km

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2018 Chev Cruize 161,000 km

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2018 Chev Cruize 202,000 km 2010 Toyota Corolla 265,000 km 2008 Hyundai Accent 159,000 km 2005 Chrysler 300 135,000 km 2004 Toyota Camry 230,000 km

SUVS

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2020 Nissan Rouge FWD, 136,000 km

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2018 Nissan Quashi 122,000 km 2015 Jeep Cherokee 231,000 km 2015 Dodge Journey 134,000 km 2015 Ford Explorer AWD

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April 2024 55

CLASSIFIED

CLASSIFIED

CLASSIFIED

-------------------------------------------COMING EVENTS -------------------------------------------Ontario Belgian Horse Association Horse Pull May 3 at 5 p.m. Horse tack and horses sell May 4; 9 a.m.

West Niagara Fairgrounds. www.ontariobelgians.ca 705-8873350.

-------------------------------------------CONSTRUCTION -------------------------------------------Liquid manure tanks, bunker silos, foundations and pads. All are 100% engineered. Serving Ontario since 1968. De Jong & Sons Ltd. 519-348-0523 -------------------------------------------CUSTOM WORK -------------------------------------------Custom stone picking. Let us harvest rocks so you can harvest crops. Serving Grey, Bruce, Dufferin and Wellington counties.

Call Brendan Martin 519-503-1101. brendan.martin870@gmail.com -------------------------------------------DAIRY -------------------------------------------Screened bedding sand, delivered.

Call 519-625-8242 or 519-2741490.

-------------------------------------------FOR SALE -------------------------------------------Alfalfa hay mixtures, pasture mixtures, top dressing for pastures, and a selection of organic grass seeds. All mixed to your personal needs.

Also red clover for plowdown. Available at Courtney Grain & Seed (2015) Ltd., 225 Hwy 21, RR 1, Ripley. Phone 519-3952972. Ask for Carmon or Mitch.

-------------------------------------------For prices on forage peas, forage pea mixtures, barley, oats, spring wheat and mixed grain seed.

Contact Courtney Grain & Seed (2015) Ltd., 225 Hwy 21, RR 1, Ripley. Phone 519-395-2972. Ask for Carmon or Mitch.

-------------------------------------------Soybean seed for sale - Altitude R2, Beliveau R2X, Ramage XF, Savage R2X and Orr R2X Roundup Ready varieties.

Treatments and inoculants available. Call Mitch at Courtney Grain & Seed (2015) Ltd. 519-440-6712 -------------------------------------------Maple Syrup sold in 1 Litre glass jars; $15 per Litre or $160 per case of 12. Don Morden, Rothsay. 519638-2525.

--------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------FOR SALE -------------------------------------------Rebuilt water pumping windmills.

Beatty, Aermotor, etc., parts, repairs and sales. Towers wanted.

519-357-3621 -------------------------------------------Rosco grain bins for sale - 19' and 14' diameter. Parts available. Used grain bins wanted for parts or reuse. Closed Sundays, 519-3383920.

-------------------------------------------Shade trees, Spruce, White Pine, Cedars, windbreaks and privacy hedges, Shrubs, Apples, Pears, Peaches, Plums, Sweet and sour Cherry Trees at (Emanuel E.M. Martin) Martin's Nursery. 42661 Orangehill Rd Wroxeter ON N0G 2X0.

--------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------LIVESTOCK BEDDING -------------------------------------------MIRACLE FIBRE Livestock Bedding.

Also, coarse wood mulch for horse and cattle walkways, wet areas around water troughs and bush lanes. Also available is dairy pack starter bedding. 519-669-2456.

Sittler Grinding Inc. Rick Sittler.

-------------------------------------------LIVESTOCK FOR SALE -------------------------------------------Black & Red Simmental Bulls, yearlings & 2 yr. olds for sale by private treaty. Performance, ultrasound and semen tested with BIO$ scores. Reports on Agsights website. Contact Dave Milliner, Dundalk, ON. 519-9239188 / 519-375-0122 or milliner.dg@gmail.com -------------------------------------------LIMOUSIN breeding bulls, quiet, thick, semen tested, guaranteed breeders, delivery included. Select now for spring delivery. OPEN HOUSE Saturday April 6, 2024.

Posthaven Limousin, John Post, 519-766-7178. John Jr. 519-8311869. www.posthavenlimousin.com -------------------------------------------McKague Charolais bulls, registered, purebred yearlings, polled and semen-tested, good disposition. Open and bred heifers available. Wingham, 519-357-3808 -------------------------------------------Bulls on test. Watch them grow by Googling Ontario Bull Evaluation, Silver Springs Farms. Heifers developing. Contact us at 519599-6236 to reserve yours for 2024. James, Joan and Robert McKinlay.

--------------------------------------------

56 The Rural Voice

• Tree Seedlings • Nursery Stock • Shade Trees • Native Species Order for Spring 2024 Now

905-797-2801

www.hrichardsonfarms.com

-------------------------------------------GARDEN SEEDS -------------------------------------------Hawthorn Farm Organic Seeds vegetable, herb and flower seeds, 6923 Sideroad 2 West, Mount Forest ON, N0G 2L0. 519-3433375, hawthornfarm.ca; sales@hawthornfarm.ca -------------------------------------------LAND FOR RENT -------------------------------------------Agricultural Land for Rent -The Friends of Hullett are accepting contract bids for 850 acres of agricultural land from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2029.

Details of the agricultural lands, located outside of Clinton within the Hullett Provincial Wildlife Area, the contract, application and all other pertinent information can be obtained from the address below.

Only bids that exceed $255,000.00 per year or $300.00 per acre will be considered. All applications must be received by Friday, May 10, 2024 at 12:00 noon. For more information, please contact: Friends of Hullett PO Box 1520, Clinton, ON N0M 1L0 (519) 4827011 wfohoffice@tcc.on.ca --------------------------------------------

Limousin BULLS and Open and Bred FEMALES

26th Annual Open House & Private Treaty Sale ~ Sat., April 6, 2024 At the farm 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Please call to arrange a private viewing

Smart Limousin

137606 Grey Rd. 12 Meaford 519-372-7459 www.smartlimousin.com or Follow us on Facebook

-------------------------------------------RESTORATION -------------------------------------------The Olde Tyme Radio Centre antique radios, clocks, gramophones, telephones; sold/restored. (vintage autoclock radio repairs). Golden Oldies Antiques For Sale. Belgrave 519357-4304, www.oldtymeradio.ca --------------------------------------------

CLASSIFIED

CLASSIFIED

CLASSIFIED

-------------------------------------------SERVICES -------------------------------------------Farm buildings, homes, cottages repaired, remodeled, restored and jacked up. Also roofing, siding, doors, windows, cement work, foundations, piers, framework, decks, doors, fencing, beams, eavestroughing - repaired, replaced or installed. Brian McCurdy 519375-0958/519-986-1781.

-------------------------------------------Cronin Poured Concrete Ltd. Since 1976. Liquid manure tanks to 200'.

Heights of 8'- 14' (1-pour).

All jobs engineer specifications/ inspections guaranteed.

Best firm quote in Ontario.

Mark Cronin. 519-274-5000. www.croninpouredconcrete.ca -------------------------------------------Tax Quest Certified Tax Preparation. Twenty plus years experience. Personal, farm, investment and business returns.

Flora Becker 177975 Grey Rd. 18 Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N5 519447-0922.

-------------------------------------------Income Tax Filing for Corporations and late filers - for farms, small business, truckers and individuals.

Will make house calls in the North Huron, Perth and surround area.

Call Shirley in Wingham - cell No. 1705-434-8187.

--------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------SERVICES --------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------WANTED -------------------------------------------Young farmer looking for land rent, sharecrop, or custom work opportunities. Good environmental stewardship and professionalism.

Short and long term. 519-200-7845 or hundt.chris@outlook.com.

-------------------------------------------Scrap Cars Wanted. 20, 30, 40 yd. scrap metal bins available. We sell quality used auto parts. Wanted to buy - scrap cars, trucks, farm machinery, heavy equipment.

Kenilworth Auto Recyclers. 519323-1113.

-------------------------------------------Farmland - Long or short term.

Cash rent, share crop. Contact Paul at Hill & Hill Farms, 519-233-3218 or 519-525-3137 or email: paul.hill@tcc.on.ca --------------------------------------------

DONALD A ANDREW ACCOUNTING Accounting & Income Tax Services for FARMS, BUSINESSES & INDIVIDUALS 296 Ross St., Lucknow

Ph. 519-528-3019 Ph/Fax (519) 474-1365 Cell (519) 671-6599

Painting Ontario Barns Since 1975

BARN PAINTING PLUS LTD. 1741 JUBILEE DRIVE, LONDON, ONT. N6G 5K5 www.barnpaintingplus.com MIKE OBERMAYER, President

Farm Accounting Tax Services Tax Preparation Advisory Services

Allied Associates LLP www.alliedassociates.ca 1-800-661-1956

GLAVIN BARN & COMMERCIAL PAINTING FARMERS repaint your faded coloured steel FREE QUOTES ~ FULLY INSURED

RR 1 Crediton, Ont. N0M 1M0 (near Exeter)

Call: Jim Glavin 1-800-465-4725 519-228-6247 Eugene Glavin 519-228-6801 Specializing in on Farm Pest Management Serving Southwestern ON, Golden Horseshoe, GTA Email: info@sgsltd.ca

519-692-4232

Water based, solvent free, Liquid Rubber Seal Roof creates an adhered, flexible membrane.

SURFACES • Metal (inc. galvanized & aluminum) • Wood • Concrete • Manure Pits • UV Resistant

Happy Spring Deadline for the

May issue of the

DANNY’S

86362 Harper Line RR 1 Lucknow N0G 2H0 (just north of Zion Road)

rjefferson@alliedtax.ca

RESISTS CRACKING & PEELING

www.sgspestmanagement.ca

Custom Painting & Sandblasting

Reba Jefferson, CPA Accounting Advisor Wingham 226-791-2536

-----------------------------------------WANTED -------------------------------------------Family is looking to buy a dairy farm in Bruce County. Please send your response to Drawer #5 c/o Rural Voice, PO Box 429, Blyth, ON N0M 1H0 --------------------------------------------

Rural Voice Is

April 9

April 2024 57

National Farmers Union – Ontario NEWSLETTER ● Strong Communities ● Sound Policies ● Sustainable Farms

Phone: 1-888-832-9638 E-mail: office@nfuontario.ca Website: www.nfuontario.ca

Depth of Field: Films About Farming Mark your calendars! The Nine ON Farms featured in Depth of Field: Films About Farming The National Farmers Union and the award-winning documentary filmmakers of March Forth Creative Inc. present Depth of Field, 40 short documentaries featuring farmers and farms from across Canada. These unscripted short films celebrate the stories of Canadian farmers, farm workers, producers and land stewards who are committed to sustainable practices.

Nine of the 40 featured farms are in Ontario, showcasing a diverse tapestry of Ontario farm types: Black Sheep Farm Black Sheep Farm is an agroecological farm, run by Brenda Hsueh and Skyler Radojkovic. They raise sheep on pasture, using intensive managed grazing, to maximize the soil building effects of ruminants, while producing meat and fibre from grass and sunlight. They want to see farming become the climate crisis solution it should be, building soils, sequestering carbon, being a moisture sponge, increasing biodiversity, all while feeding people without exploiting themselves or the people they work with.

Ga Gitigemi Gamik We Will Plant Lodge Ga Gitigemi Gamik (We Will Plant Lodge) is envisioned as an ecological centre on a permanent Indigenous-stewarded site on Manitoulin Island, Ontario, where women and 2S L G B T T Q Q I A+ persons can work on the land together in a 12-week immersion program that will help them (re)learn ancestral agricultural methods lost to colonization.

Kenli Herefords & Apiary Ken and Lisa Bassindale run a cow/calf operation, raising registered polled “Kenli” Herefords using a mix

of ecological and conventional practices.The Bassindales have also been raising honey bees for over 10 years and produce honey for sale.

They’ve also recently taken up raising pastured chicken. They farm an additional 400 acres of cash crops, including hay, wheat, soybeans and corn. Their farm is chemical free and .uses cover crops to nourish the soil Kitchen Table Seed House Kitchen Table Seed House is owned and operated by Kathy Rothermel and Annie Richard. They grow certified-organic varieties of vegetables, herbs and flowers for seed over three acres and two separate fields on Wolfe Island, Ontario.

Lucky Bug Farm Lucky Bug Farm is a one-quarteracre ecological market garden operating on rented land 25 minutes from Kitchener-Waterloo. Lucky Bug Farm relies on interplanting and minimal tillage to build soil health and in turn, a productive ecological market garden. They buy organic seeds as much as possible, use organic potting mix and do not use synthetic amendments, sprays or fertilizers.

Meeting Place Organic Farm Meeting Place Organic Farm is a woman-owned and operated organic farm in Ontario now being farmed by the second generation of McQuails in a sustainable, environmentally conscious manner. They aim for more than regenerative agriculture with their grass-fed and finished Ontario beef, pasture-raised pork, organic chicken and certified organic apple orchard. They believe in the importance of building strong local communities and being good stewards of the land and animals they tend.

Ottawa Valley Farm to Fork Ottawa Valley Farm to Fork are

the ultimate farm-to-table party animals. They whip up gourmet goodies straight from the land - grassfed beef turned into divine sausage rolls, and organic potatoes transformed into lip-smacking pierogi. The farm is small but mighty, proving there’s no limit to deliciousness.They pamper Scottish Highland cattle, dairy goats, and freerange chickens. They’re also veggie virtuosos, growing organic, heritage crops. Sustainable and scrumptious!

Pfenning’s Organic Vegetables Pfenning’s Organic Vegetables has been proudly growing certified organic vegetables since 1981.

Located between New Hamburg and Baden, the farm now stretches over about 700 acres. Although best known for their delicious carrots, they also grow over 40 other varieties of vegetables: leafy greens, brassicas, squash and root veggies that grow best in their region. Respect and care is at the heart of everything they do.

Rooted Oak Organic Farm Rooted Oak Organic Farm is a family-run farm in the community of North Augusta, Ontario. Owned and operated by Nikki and Stuart Oke, they use the principles of agroecology to produce a variety of vegetables that are sold through community supported agriculture (CSA) and farmers markets in the Ottawa, Kingston and Augusta regions. *** Public film screenings are being organized by N F U members and allied folks in local communities to spark meaningful conversations about the future of farming. Don’t miss the opportunity to come together in person with like-minded folks and comrades. Find an event near you at nfu.ca/events.

To watch the films online, visit www.nfu.ca. ◊

A subscription to The Rural Voice is one of the benefits of being an NFU-O member 58 The Rural Voice

Henry Groenestege, President

Perth County

* The Rural Voice is provided to Perth County Pork Producers by the PCPPA perthcountyporkproducers@gmail.com

Pork Producers NEWSLETTER

A swine farm that knows how to manage pigs and people

By Craig Hulshof ny producer who has attended a Topigs customer appreciation banquet knows that RFW farms are doing something right. Year after year, their sow barns receive awards for top production in eastern Canada. At a session of the London Swine Conference, their production manager shared some of the strategies that he utilizes to drive this top notch performance at RFW farms.

RFW is a 5,000 sow farrow-tofinish operation with a lot of the finishing and nursery taken care of by contract producers. This session was about how RFW manages the relationship with their contract producers to drive dedication and performance.

The talk started by acknowledging the difference in perspective between a production manager and a barn manager. The production manager has a system focus and a long-term vision. The barn manager has a pig focus and is concerned about what needs to get done this week. This has the potential to be an adversarial relationship, but if managed properly, can actually be a complementary relationship.

I found their incentive system to be unique, not intuitive, but gleaned from experience. The first point was that they do not award crowns or goat horns. Any praise or criticism of results is done privately, not publicly.

Performance is not rewarded with bonuses. Top performing producers are recognised privately with a hot lunch. Only years of service and hard work are publicly celebrated and rewarded. Producer meetings are held annually to troubleshoot problems, share knowledge, compare results, and celebrate success.

Performance is driven through open communication. Challenging but achievable goals for key performance indicators such as average daily gain, feed conversion, and mortality are set for producers to

A

target. They are given protocols to follow based on the experience of the entire production system. Before a producer receives a batch of pigs, they are sent a report of any issues that have happened with that batch of pigs in the nursery, or from a previous batch of pigs from the same source. This way the producer knows what to expect, and is prepared to care for those pigs.

The producer is visited four times per batch by a representative of RFW farms. Sometimes it’s the production manager; sometimes it’s the owner.

These are not only an opportunity to evaluate the pigs and herdsmanship, but also an opportunity to re-evaluate protocols, and catch-up on industry news.

RFW believes in catching problems early. They expect their producers to walk their barns twice per day to treat any pigs that are becoming sick, or address any conditions that might inhibit performance. They expect their producers to deal with issues immediately instead of leaving the barn with a to-do list for the next day.

This approach applies to their management of the producer relationship as well. Frequent barn visits keep the lines of communication open so that interpersonal problems can be dealt with while they are small. They believe that if a problem escalates to a shouting match, an opportunity has been lost.

After a batch of pigs is shipped, the producer receives a report card of their key performance indicators for that batch, along with a commentary of the roses and thorns for that batch.

RFW also promotes some friendly competition among its producers to drive results. They publish a report of the KPIs for each farm and share it with the producers. This not only encourages producers to do better, but also shows them what is possible.

RFW summarized their session as follows: “The collective wisdom and innovation of the producer group is foundational to performance strength on the farm. Everyone has a perspective to contribute, but this sense of understanding must be tempered with a spirit of humble teachability. The moment that we think we know it all is the moment we begin to move in a retrograde direction. A wise producer seizes on each opportunity to consult with other professionals whenever there are opportunities for interaction.

Fresh eyes offer novel ideas.

Experienced production team members listen thoughtfully to the insights of farmers who observe the day-in-day-out circumstances in the barn. The reciprocal exchange of ideas strengthens our ability to become better in our pig farming careers.”

This farm knows how to manage pigs and people.

LOCAL PORK PRODUCTS AVAILABLE Fill your freezer with local pork products Order today from: Tanya and Darryl Terpstra (519-291-7603) or visit Leis Feeds in Milverton – Open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon

Pork supplied by: Perth County Pork Producers BBQ services for large groups are also available, contact: perthcountyporkproducers@gmail.com for more details.

April 2024 59

519-364-3050 or 1-800-275-9551 Grey County Federation Email: grey@ofa.on.ca Website: greyfederation.ca of Agriculture * The Rural Voice is provided to OFA Members in Grey County by the GCFA

Curling Bonspiel 2024 The Grey County Federation of Agriculture hosted their annual Curling Bonspiel on Saturday Feb. 17 at the Williamsford Curling Club. We had six enthusiastic teams participate. The stakes were high to win bragging rights as well as the much coveted GCFA toques’. Teams played two eight end games and enjoyed a fabulous roast beef dinner between games.

Participants received prizes supplied by J-Mar meats in

Holstein. After two intense games, the winners of the 9 am draw were Jim Hamill, Mike Hutchins, Wes Sparling and Steve Naylor. The 11 am draw saw the team of Murray Fligg, Roger Shantz, Harris Kuhl and Jim Walter rise to the occasion and win both their games. We wish to extend a big thank you to all the teams that participated and we look forward to seeing you all again next year.

Thank you to all our Curling Bonspiel Sponsors!!

Midwest Co-op – Owen Sound • Bayshore Feeds – Owen Sound • MacDonald’s Fuels – Rockford • Huron Tractor – Chatsworth • Princess Auto - Owen Sound • Farm Credit Canada – Owen Sound • Bread Depot – Owen Sound • Chatsworth Honey • Chatsworth Home Hardware • J-Mar Meats – Holstein • OFA • GCFA

78th Annual Public Speaking Contest

Pictured are the participants in the GCFA Public Speaking Competition held recently. Congratulations to all the speakers who shared their passion and insight on some diverse topics. Seated are the winners; First place JR Sky Kleineke, second place JR Jarvis Kleineke, JR Ag Award Emily Lawrence, first place INT Intermediate and Ag Award winner, Bennett Huesing, second place INT Bella-Sintara Singh Soares.

The crowd was entertained and educated by these fantastic speakers. * The Rural Voice is provided to OFA Members in Grey County by the GCFA.

60 The Rural Voice

Email: bruce@ofa.on.ca website: brucefederation.ca

NEWSLETTER

519-364-3050 or 1-800-275-9551 * The Rural Voice is provided to OFA Members in Bruce County by the BCFA

“Share the Road" Signage Initiative in Bruce County- coming soon The Bruce Federation of Agriculture and Bruce County are partnering to implement a crucial initiative aimed at enhancing road safety for locals, agricultural users, and visitors in Bruce County. The project involves the installation of agriculture-based “Share the Road” signs strategically placed on major entry points to the county and county roads known for high traffic related to agricultural activities. As farmers, we share the responsibility of keeping our roads safe, these signs will serve as a reminder to all motorists to exercise caution and share the road responsibly with agricultural equipment.

Bruce County, renowned for its agricultural activities, welcomes millions of visitors annually. With a primary focus on agriculture and as one of Canada’s fastest-growing counties, it is imperative to address safety concerns related to the coexistence of agricultural equipment and regular traffic. The installation of “Share the Road” signs will not only enhance safety for all road users but also initiate a joint marketing campaign to raise awareness about the importance of responsible roadsharing between agricultural and non-agricultural vehicles.

This project is a proactive step towards fostering a safer road environment, promoting mutual respect between different road users, and contributing to the overall well-being of the Bruce County community.

Lasting and relevant impacts to our community: 1. Enhanced Road Safety: - Reduced Accidents: - Increased Awareness: 2. Community Cohesion: - Shared Responsibility: - Positive Community Engagement: 3. Economic Benefits: - Improved Agricultural Operations: - Tourism Promotion: 4. Educational Impact: - Sustainable Awareness: 5. Positive Public Perception: - Community Pride: The success of this project can serve as a template for future communitydriven initiatives. The collaborative approach between the Bruce Federation of Agriculture, Bruce County, and the community can inspire other projects aimed at addressing community challenges.

Bruce County Plowmen

Looking for Volunteers and to spread the word!

The International Plowing Match and Rural Expo is returning to Bruce County in 2026. It will mark the 50th Anniversary of the first IPM held in Bruce County. It will be held at the same site near Walkerton as the 1976 event!

Let's come together to make this event a success!

If you have any questions please reach out to 519-379-0821 or email: brucecountyipm@gmail.com

2024 Directors Meetings April 22 May 27 June 24 August 26 September 23 October 25-Annual Meeting November 11

* The Rural Voice is provided to OFA Members in Bruce County by the BCFA.

APRIL 2024 61

Perth County Federation of Agriculture Email: perthcountyfedofag@gmail.com Website: www.perthcountyfarmers.ca Office: 1-833-229-6834 Derek Van De Walle, President

Cultivating Community: Rural Ontario’s Prowess

By Derek Van De Walle PCFA President ecently, I was visiting downtown Toronto in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city’s workweek. As I passed by literally hundreds, if not thousands of people, I came to the conclusion that I did not wish to move there anytime soon. But what was so different about this place that made me look forward to going home?

The next week, I found myself walking downtown Listowel to get my skates sharpened at the local sports store. It wasn’t until a stranger smiled and asked how my morning was going that I began to reflect back on my trip to Toronto.

The irony of being surrounded by so many people in the city, yet feeling so alone, hit me. That’s not to say that there are not friendly people that live in the city, nor should an afternoon’s experience taint my views. However, I did gain a greater appreciation for my farming community that day!

Having said that, the sense of community in our rural neighbourhoods runs much deeper than a simple hello on the sidewalk.

One of the cornerstones of farming communities is the tradition of lending a hand when it’s needed most. Whether it’s pitching in during harvest season, answering the call when someone is looking for advice, or the warm meal that shows up at your door when devastation strikes, the willingness to help is ingrained in our way of life.

This spirit of reciprocity fosters a sense of unity that transcends individual success, creating a network of support that extends far beyond our own fields.

But community isn’t just about mutual aid during times of crisis, it’s about celebrating each other’s achievements and milestones as well.

R

From the birth of a new baby to the open house of a new facility, we take joy in our neighbour’s triumphs, knowing that their success is a victory for the entire community.

Our farming community also serves as an infinite source of knowledge and expertise. Through informal gatherings, workshops, and online forums, we have the opportunity to learn from one another, sharing best practices and innovative solutions to common challenges. In this way, our community becomes a living library of agricultural wisdom, passed down through generations, continuously evolving to meet the demands of modern farming.

These moments of shared emotion and knowledge strengthen the bonds that hold us together, reminding us that we are stronger and smarter when we stand and work together.

As we look to the future, the importance of community in farming cannot be overstated. In an increasingly interconnected world,

our ability to collaborate and cooperate with one another will be essential in overcoming the challenges that lie ahead.

So let us not get so busy and inundated with our lives that we forget to look out for those around us.

Rather, let us be willing to contribute to our collective community by continuing to volunteer, donate, and support one another. Together, in our homes, churches, neighbourhoods, and beyond, we can weather any storm and cultivate a thriving community that sustains us all – no matter where we call home! ◊

The PCFA wishes you a safe planting season and spring!

Coffee with a Cop: A Series Since January 2024, officers from the Perth County OPP have been hosting a new series called ‘Coffee With a Cop’, an opportunity to chat with members of the public, answer questions and make connections. They are held the second Thursday of the month.

Upcoming Dates: (locations rotate throughout the county) • April 11: Listowel, McDonalds — 970 Wallace Avenue North • May 9: Perth East • June 12: Mitchell, McDonalds • July 11: Listowel, Tim Hortons — Wallace Avenue N. For more details and updates of Perth East locations, follow OPP West Region on Facebook, X and Instagram.

* The Rural Voice is provided to OFA Members in Perth County by the PCFA.

62 The Rural Voice

Index

Allied Associates ........................57 Bautec Industries Inc ..................63 Bernie McGlynn Lumber ............49 Bervie Supply ..............................13 Bester Forest Products ..............48 Blyth Festival ......................Cover 3 Bushells Auto Sales ....................55 Business Centre ..................53, 54 Canadian Co-operative Wool ....44 Chalmers Fuels............................47 Chick Days ..................................39 Cottrill Heavy Equipment............26 Crafter’s Corner ..........................50 Crop Management ........................5 Crop Quest Inc ............................45 Cross County Eavestrough ........34 DeDell Seeds ................................6 Earth Day ....................................39 Easy Lift Doors Ltd......................42 Farm To Table ..............................7 Feeney Design Build ..........Cover 5 Green Valley Heating Inc ............21 Greenville Liquid Plant Food ......45 Grey Sauble Conservation..........48 Grey-Bruce Construction ..........49 GRK Products ............................43 Hanover Honda ..........................43 Hardi ............................................42 Hayden Water Wells....................37 Highland Fuels & Supply ............51 Hill & Hill/Varna Grain ........Cover 2 H-P Woodlot Association............47 Home and Garden ................30, 31 JA Porter Holdings Ltd ................51 JJM Concrete Grooving..............25 Kenpal Farm Products ................21 LAC ..............................................44 Lakeside Shelving & Racking ....45 Legge Fitness ..............Back Cover Leon Brubacher ..........................27 Lisa Thompson MPP ..................29 Listowel Lifestyle Show ....Cover 4 Live Landscape ..........................34 Mapleview Agri Ltd ......................51 Marquardt Farm Drainage Ltd ....41 Martin Farm Wagons ..................41 Marvin L Smith Forestry..............45 May Apple Financial ......................9 McLeod Water Wells Ltd ............29 McNain TV & Electronics ..............2 Meeting Place Organic ................19 Michael’s Stabling Dev. ..............17 MNP LLP ......................................17 Moore Hemsworth Insurance ....50 Morris Sachs Silo Construction ..50 MRC Wireless ..............................14 Nesbitt Financial Strategies Inc....8 NNZ Inc Canada ..........................23

Nu-Matic Systems Inc..................13 Nuclear Waste Management ......44 Nuhn Forage Inc ............................9 Oxford Honey & Supplies............12 RCS Forestry Mulching ..............10 Riverside Welding & Mfg ............26 Schmidt’s Farm Drainage............26 Schweiss Doors ..........................50 Silver Creek Nursery ..................48 S. Thompson Accounting ..........44 Superior Barn Painting ......Cover 4 SVCA ..........................................49 SWO Diesel Inc ..................Cover 5 Townsley Barn Painting ..............57

Tree Planting & Maintenance 11, 15 Usborne & Hibbert Ins ................37 WD Hopper & Sons ....................34 Waddell Engineering Ltd ............25 Weber’s Farm Supply ..................45 Webwood Truss............................11

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April 2024 63

HURON

42 First Avenue, Clinton, Ontario N0M 1L0 519-482-9642 or 1-800-511-1135

County Federation of Agriculture NEWSLETTER

Environmental Farm Plan Workshop in Huron County Dates: Day 1 & 2 – April 9 & 16, 2024

Location: Belgrave Community Centre Time: 10 am – 3 pm both days Please register before April 4, 2024.

To register please visit www.ontariosoilcrop.org or contact Lois Sinclair at 519-955-3139 Farmer Wellness The HCFA is pleased to see the government extend counselling services through the Farmer Wellness Initiative to include farm employees, and spouses and dependants of farm employees. If you’re in need of support or know someone who needs help, call the Farmer Wellness Initiative anytime.

Accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, farmers needing support can c a l l 1-866-267-6255 to speak to a mental health professional. www.farmerwellnessinitiative.ca

Attention South Huron Farmers Farmers in South Huron are encouraged to provide input and participate in the review of the South Huron Official Plan. The Official Plan is a land use planning document that is a statement of where and how development should take place. It is a key document for farmland protection, policies for housing units on farms, how Minimum Distance Separation is applied locally and other agricultural related issues. Please visit www.southhuron.ca for more information on how to get involved!

Questions?

Email op@southhuron.ca

Road Safety Farm equipment will be on our roads again as we prepare for spring planting please take time to consider how the Highway Traffic Act impacts farm trucks and equipment traveling on roadways. It is your responsibility to know the rules of the road that apply to farm equipment including licensing, load restrictions and towing requirements.

Many of the rules governing the use of cars and trucks also apply to farm vehicles on the roads, such as the use of head and tail lights, signaling turns, distracted driving and cell phone use and impaired driving.

The Ministry of Transportation has a Farm Guide on their website at http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/

trucks/pdfs/farm-guide-farmequipment-on-the-highway.pdf. The OFA website also offers an overview of some transportation issues at https://ofa.on.ca/issues/transportation/.

Slow Moving Vehicle Signs

Website: www.hcfa.on.ca Email: ofahuron@tcc.on.ca

Upcoming Events April 5 - Huron County MP MPP Local Politicians Forum If you have concerns you would like the HCFA Board to present to our politicians please contact the HCFA office or a director.

April 11 - Farm and Food Care Annual Meeting April 22 - Earth Day

HCFA Monthly Board Meeting Monday, April 22, 2024 8:00 pm Vanastra Office

OPP Non-Emergency Line 1-888-310-1122

Room for Rent

The HCFA has a board room available for rent for $40 including HST. Call the HCFA office at 519-482-9642 ext 2 to book your meetings.

The HCFA office in Vanastra has a limited amount of Slow Moving Vehicle Signs available. If you are interested in a sign please contact ofahuron@tcc.on.ca or can 519-4829642 to arrange to pick up a sign.

Huron Federation Office Hours

PAC Steering Committee The PAC Steering Committee has been selected. Congratulations to Erica Murray from Huron County who will represent everyone well. Erica will have a one-year term on the PAC Steering Committee along with Julie Danen from Perth and Paul Buckley from Kawartha Lakes/Haliburton.

Monday 9­12 and 1­4 Alternate Fridays 9­12 and 1­4

The Rural Voice is provided to all OFA members in Huron County by the Huron County Federation of Agriculture

64 The Rural Voice

New Homes • Renovations Mitchell, Ontario 519-301-1502

Cell: 519-301-1502

Email: Matt@feeneydesignbuild.com

Springtime Reads

The Rural Reading Room Specializing in Rural Living & Local Authors

NIGHT-NIGHT CANADA A special way to spend bedtime in Canada! Say goodnight to all your favorite locations, including: Calgary Zoo, Parliament Hill, CN Tower, Montreal Biosphere, Saddledome and more. Board book. $14.99

DINOSAUR DISCOVERIES Here are the most recent theories about the history of dinosaurs, backed up with amazing facts about dinosaur discoveries. Gibbons discusses the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaccous periods and many of the non-bird dinosaurs that lived during each of those times. $10.99

FARM & FOLK QUILT ALCHEMY This book explores natural dyeing methods and details the process of creating a quilt from scratch. With an emphasis on the slow and intentional aspects of hand stitching, Buscaglia’s quilts are artful and satisfying to create. $37.95

HATCHING AND BROODING YOUR OWN CHICKS Hatching your own chicks is almost a lost art but it’s a fascinating and fruitful practice.

This book offers more than 200 pages of instructions on hatching chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese and guinea fowl. $37.95

GRANDPA’S TRACTOR POCKET BOOK OF KNITTING GRANDMA’S FARM Grandma Ginny and Timmy take a trip to Grandpa Joe takes his grandson Timmy From best-selling author and visit the site of the family farm, where the back to the site of his family’s farm, crafting queen Claire Gelder old house and some rickety buildings still where the old house and a ramshackle comes this gorgeous guide to stand. This heartwarming intergenerational barn still stand. The visit stirs up knitting, perfect for complete story is perfect for grandparents to share memories for Grandpa Joe—in beginners and clearly explaining with their grandchildren, and for those particular, the majesty of his own everything you need to know. father's shiny red tractor, now rusting in looking for a story to share about simpler $19.95 the forgotten fields. $23.99 times. $23.99

NIGHT-NIGHT CANADA DINOSAUR DISCOVERIES FARM & FOLK QUILT ALCHEMY HATCHING AND BROODING YOUR OWN CHICKS GRANDMA’S FARM GRANDPA’S TRACTOR POCKET BOOK OF KNITTING UNFORGETTABLE ONTARIO

Qty.

$14.99 $10.99 $37.95 $37.95 $23.99 $23.99 $19.95 $29.95

Total

Total for Books Shipping & Handling $9.00 Canada Post Fuel Surcharge $4.00

Subtotal 5% GST on Subtotal Order Total

UNFORGETTABLE ONTARIO This beautifully illustrated guide celebrates 100 of the destinations and events that make Ontario an unforgettable place to travel. $29.95

Send cheque or money order for full amount to: Books: North Huron Publishing P.O. Box 429, Blyth, ON N0M 1H0 or call and pay by credit card 519-523-4311 MAIL BOOKS TO: Name:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Address: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ______________________ Code _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Phone: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Prices subject to change with increases in wholesale prices, postage, taxes, etc.

Please refer to current issue for correct figures. Incorrect payment will delay delivery.

Hidden Gems of Huron County

Spring issue print version now available FREE at tourist information booths, town halls, retail outlets, accommodations, and restaurants throughout the county and beyond!

Online version available at

stopsalongtheway.ca

Have a Seat. Relax.

Founded by engineers in 1990, American Leather® manufacturers their patented Living Mobility Chairs and patented Comfort Sleepers in their state-of-theart facility in Texas, USA. Designed with their patented weight balanced mobility mechanism and advanced unidirectional suspension system, American Leather® can take your sitting experience to a whole new level of wellbeing and relaxation.

Did you know? The Legge family has been involved in fitness and wellness for over 40 years, and 2024 is their 36th Anniversary as a family owned and operated business. Philip is a Nutritionist, Muscle and Joint Therapist, and Fitness Trainer. Philip and Mary, their son Stephen and daughters Priscilla, Elizabeth and Lois are all Wellness Advisors, and work full time in the family business. Over the years, they’ve expanded their portfolio to cover all the categories of quality fitness, wellness, mobility and medical products. Their offering includes Cardiovascular and Strength products, Canadian Made Saunas and Therapy Spas, Massage Chairs and Zero Gravity Chairs, Infrared Greenhouses and Organic Foods.

The Legge family offers an exclusive Best Value Guarantee, and they also service and stand behind all the products they sell. With about 25,000 sq. ft. in their two showrooms in Listowel and Fergus, they would welcome your visit and the opportunity to help you and your family on your fitness and wellness journey!

LeggeFitness.com 1-800-695-7338

202 Main St. W., Listowel 105 Queen St W., Fergus

Your Family Fitness, Wellness and Mobility Store Since 1988!