OFVC Show Guide 2025

C A N A D A’ S P R E M I E R H O R T I C U LT U R A L E V E N T

ONTARIO FRUIT AND VEGETABLE CONVENTION e d i u G w o h S 5 202 FEB R UA RY 1 9 – 2 0 , 2 0 2 5

NIAGARA FALLS CONVENTION CENTRE FOLLOW US @ofvc1 ofvc2025 | www.ofvc.ca

OF VC E XECUTIVE & COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESIDENT

Kelly Ciceran O N TA R I O A P P L E G R OW E R S, H C O

CONTENTS

VICE PRESIDENT

Douglas Darling N P F & VG A GE NER AL MANAGE R

Glenna Cairnie DIRECTORS

4

President’s Welcome

5

Thanks to our Great Sponsors

6

Convention Exhibitors

7

Maps

Victoria Buma BE R R Y G R OW E R S O F O N TA R I O, H C O Kelly Ciceran O N TA R I O A P P L E G R OW E R S, H C O Catherine Clark FA R M E R S ’ M A R K E T S O N TA R I O, H C O Douglas Darling N P F&VG A Barbara Hipple-Roller N P F&VG A Matt Peters N.M. B A R T L E T T IN C., H C O Tom Tancock N P F&VG A Kevin Vallier AG R I TO U R I S M O N TA R I O, H C O Torrie Warner N P F&VG A Jennifer Whalen O M A FA

8

Session Schedule

Kevin Schooley N.M. B A R T L E T T IN C., H C O

12

Speaker Biographies

34

Poster Competition Entries

38

Remembering Bob Chorney, A Convention Founder

40

The Pursuit of Excellence: Growing For Gold

42

Weather and Climate: The Times They Are A Changin

44

Speaking Up to Help Others: The Joy of SurThriving

46

Farmers’ Markets Ontario® Market of the Year Award

48

The Growing Business of Farm Fresh Flowers

50

NPF & VGA Award of Merit

CONVENTION PARTNERS

C H A I R /FAC I LI TI E S TR ADE SHOW

Ross Parker N P F & VG A Craig Parker Tom Tancock N P F & VG A SPEAKER PROGRAM

Cara McCreary O M A FA Denise Beaton O M A FA S P E A K E R C O - O R D I N AT O R

Beverly Cantelon A C C O M M O D AT I O N S

Catherine Clark FA R M E R S ’ M A R K E T S O N TA R I O, H C O POSTER SESSIONS

Cara McCreary O M A FA Denise Beaton O M A FA MARKE TING/WEBSITE

Steve Watt BR I G H T L I G H T C O M M U NI C AT I O N S C O M M I T T E E M E M B E R S AT L A R G E

Douglas Darling N P F & VG A Barbara Hipple-Roller N P F & VG A Ken Slingerland N P F & VG A Torrie Warner N P F & VG A SESSION CHAIRS

Nicole Berardi O M A FA Elmer Buchanan F M O Victoria Buma B GO Kathryn Carter O M A FA Deanna Chakarova S T. C AT H A R I N E S F M

Tejendra Chapagain O M A FA

Travis Cranmer O M A FA Chevonne Dayboll O M A FA Kelly Daynard F FC Erika DeBrouwer O M A FA Evan Elford O M A FA Amy Fang Shi O GG A Melanie Filotas O M A FA Jennifer Kelly BR O C K U NI V E R S I T Y

Interested in advertising in the 2026 Show Guide?

Contact Steve Watt, steve@ofvc.ca.

The OFVC Show Guide is published by Bright Light Communications www.brightlightcommunications.com.

Design by Sherpa Creative www.sherpacreative.com.

Cary Gates FC G Kristy Grigg-McGuffin

Mary Haurilak O P M A Kelley Knight O M A FA Stefan Larrass O F VG A Cora Loucks O M A FA Sarah Marshall OT FG Wendy McFadden-Smith O M A FA

John Molenhuis O M A FA Kevin Montgomery O M A FA Jeff O’Donnell O M A FA Erica Pate O M A FA Elaine Roddy O M A FA Amanda Tracey O M A FA Dan Tukendorf O F VG A Kevin Vallier AO Dennis Van Dyk O M A FA Sean Westerveld O M A FA

O M A FA

No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without permission from OFVC. Copyright © 2025 by OFVC Inc. Printed in Canada by Annex Business Media.

3

KELLY CICERAN

P R E S I D E N T, O N T A R I O F R U I T AND VEGE TABLE CO NVENTIO N

PRESIDENT’S WELCOME

On behalf of the OFVC Board and Planning Committee,

Welcome to the 23rd Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Convention This year we are celebrating the community we’ve built between growers, agri-business, government, and students who are all gathering to learn, share and network. The OFVC strives to provide a place to cultivate growth through innovation (with a variety of exhibitor products and services), insight (such as our 110+ speakers and 135 presentations) and industry connections (featuring our Kick-off Party, Farmers and Friends Reception, and Rise 'N Shine breakfast) and all under one roof.

This event is successful because of the efforts of so many people. Thank you to the OMAFA Session Chairs who have created another stellar line up of topics and

arranging speakers to share their knowledge. We are fortunate to have a great team to keep us on track — thank you to Glenna Cairnie, Steve Watt, and Bev Cantelon for your dedication to OFVC. Thank you to our supportive sponsors and exhibitors – your continued support is greatly appreciated.

Enjoy the convention and cheers to a great growing season ahead!

Kelly Ciceran PRESIDENT

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention acknowledges that Niagara Region is the traditional territory of the Hatiwendarank, Haudenosaunee, and Anishinaabe peoples that made up the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation and Haudenosaunee Confederacy, many of whom continue to live and work here today. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum agreement. Today this gathering place is home to many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples and acknowledging reminds us that our great standard of living is directly related to the resources and friendship of Indigenous peoples.

4

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS C O N V E N T I O N PA R T N E R S

ELAND GROWERS VIN

Ontario

CO-O

Incorporated

P E R AT I V E

LTD.

ESTABLISHED 1913

Ontario

Incorporated Ontario

FRIENDS OF THE CONVENTION Incorporated

5

EXHIBITOR LIST 729 A & B Packing Equipment 511 A & L Canada Laboratories 609 A.M.A. Horticulture Inc. 1124 Abell Pest Control 1326 Acadian Industrial Textiles 407 Acti-Sol 935 Adams County Nursery Inc. 1330 Adfast Canada Inc. 630 Advantage Packaging Ltd. 929 AEF Global Biopesticides 1434 Agri-Business HR Solutions 404 Agricorp 1205 Agricultural Credit Corporation 215 Agriculture & AgriFood Canada 305 Agriculture & Food Laboratory – University of Guelph 1028 Agriculture Wellness Ontario 1005 AgriFresh Technologies Canada Inc. 1422 AgroEcoPower 828 AgroHaitai Ltd. 1408 Anatis BioProtection 1107 Andermatt Canada Inc. 1126 Arbourdale 1320 Asphalt Works 620 BASF Canada Inc. 1021 Bayer Crop Science 211 BCM Insurance Company 601 Belchim Crop Protection Canada 1001 Ben Berg Farm & Industrial Equip. Ltd. 509 Besseling Group North America Inc. 830 BioBee Biological Solutions Canada Inc. 1033 Bioline Agrisciences 725 BioSafe Systems 1436 BioSun Solutions 824 BioWorks Inc. 1203 BK Machinery 633 Bradford Greenhouses Ltd. 604 Burgess Baskets 521 C. Frensch Ltd. 328 Cadman Power Equipment 806 Canadian Fruit Tree Nursery Co-operative Ltd. 1201 Carbon Robotics 326 Central Ontario FS 626 Cog-Veyor Systems Inc. 809 Cohort Wholesale 529 Comavit SRL 524 ConnectedCrops 532 Consulate General of Barbados/ Barbados Liaison Service 931 Cool Climate Oenology & Viticulture Institute (CCOVI), Brock University 420 Corteva Agriscience Canada Co. 1007 Crescent Oil/Fuels Inc. 1022 Croptracker 1206 Crown Bin & Pallet 822 Desjardins 121 Dey’s Equipment Centre Inc.

6 6

1334 DFK Equipment 333 Distribution Importation Jean Gagnon Inc/Antonio Carraro 331 Dolav 1210 Driving Force 1414 Drone Spray Canada 1025 DuBois Agrinovation Inc. 1129 Eastern Manufacturing & Design Inc. 1111 Eckert Machines 400 ECO+ 1035 Elite Agri Solutions 1428 Elnova Ltée 732 Engineering Possibilities 723 Enza Zaden 734 Escarpment Renewables 708 Farm Credit Canada 933 Farm for Profit/Greencrop Agri Products Ltd. 1211 Farm Power Equipment Inc. 826 Felco (Pygar Canada) 1030 Fenwick Berry Farm/ Ready-Set-Grow 704 Filmorganic 426 Finite Robotics 1202 First Genesis Inc./Sunflower Rubber & Plastics 403 FMC Canada 500 Fruit & Vegetable Magazine 1300 Gintec Shade Technologies Inc. 1209 Global Horticulture Inc. 1120 Gowan Canada 505 GPS Ontario 334 Grand River Robotics 1020 Grape Growers of Ontario 1227 Grapevine Harvest Inc. 428 Green Lea Ag Center 1106 Grindstone Creek Nursery Inc. 422 Gripple Canada 727 Gro-Bark (Walker Industries) 429 Growers Mineral Solutions 1122 Growtec Solutions Inc. 435 H20 Technologies 1121 Haggerty AgRobotics 606 Harnois Greenhouses 411 Harvest Goodies 431 Harvest Pro Mfg 913 Heartnut Grove – WWT 1101 Hectre 1318 Hindle’s Clarksburg Hardware BR D Holtzman Group Hospitality Experts 526 Hort Americas Canada Corp.

635 Hortau 131 Huebel Grapes Estates Ltd. 733 Huplaso 735 i2i Automation Inc. 213 IMS Inc. 530 Inland Desert Nursery 1009 IntelliCulture 1306 Irritec USA 1108 Jiffy

1308 Just Vertical 227 Knights Grapevine Nursery 329 KOOLJET Refrigeration Inc. 832 Koolmees Equipment Inc. 1130 Koppert Canada Ltd. 1011 Lakeside Grain & Feed Ltd. 623 Lakeview Vineyard Equipment Inc. 515 Lallemand Plant Care 405 Lambert Peat Moss Inc. 127 Leading Edge Equipment Ltd. 430 Leaffilter North of Canada Inc. 1231 Logics Technology 301 Maximum H2O 1208 MaxOn Ag Solutions Inc. 409 Maxstim Products Inc. 705 Meester Insurance Centre 624 MNP LLP 1105 Monarch Oil Ltd. 502 Monte Package Company 802 Moore Packaging Corporation 823 N.M. Bartlett Inc./ Provide Agro Corp.

800 Natural Insect Control 1104 Netafim 1420 Niagara College – Research & Innovation 909 Niagara Orchard & Vineyard Corp.

512 NNZ Inc. 413 Norseco S.E.C. 415 Nufarm 608 Nurture Growth Bio Fertilizer Inc. 628 NutriAg Ltd. 1034 Oasis Therapy 1310 Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW) 312 OMAFA – Agriculture Development 221 Oneida New Holland 501 O’Neils Farm Equipment 1024 Ontario Federation of Agriculture 921 Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Growers’ Association – The Grower 901 Ontario Orchard Supply 310 Ontario Soil & Crop Improvement Association 1332 Ontario Tender Fruit Growers 433 Orchard & Vine Equipment Solutions 1312 Oxford Pallet & Recyclables Ltd. 235 Pembuilt Machinery 804 Penn Refrigeration Ltd. 229 Planet Paper Box Group Inc. 1314 Plant Nursery de Kemp B.V. 424 Plant Products 1406 Plant, Grow Share A Row 425 Plasco Welding and Fabrication 801 Premier Equipment Ltd. 706 Princeton Wood Preservers Ltd 307 ProduceTech Inc. 507 Profile Products 321 PRO-MIX Premier Tech Horticulture

527 Provision Analytics 925 Pure Life Soil Inc. 1204 Quest Community Health Care 1006 R & W Equipment Ltd. BR D RBC 105 Redtrac International Ltd. 1328 Regen Recycling 607 Rupp Seeds 525 Seminova 1410 SK Cornerstone Group 113 Slimline Manufacturing Ltd. (Turbomist) 504 Smart Home Designs Niagara Inc. 1402 Sovema 700 Stokes Seeds Ltd. 209 Strawberry Tyme Farms Inc. 523 Structural Panels Inc. 612 Syngenta 1103 TD Bank 325 TERIS 528 Tessier Greenhouses 907 The Cider Keg 1132 The Smart Energy Company 201 Thiessen Tillage Equipment BR D TicketSpice 1200 Timac Agro Canada 233 Tirecraft 1029 Trellex BV 332 TSLC 605 Twistyer Products Inc. 701 UAP Canada Inc. 731 Unitec Canada 1109 Univerco 303 University of Guelph – Coop Education & Career Services 308 University of Windsor 1113 Upper Canada Growers 421 VandenBussche Irrigation & Equipment 427 Vario System 531 Velocity Green 707 Vineland Growers Co-operative Ltd. 1418 Vineland Research and Innovation Centre 1207 Vines to Vintages 908 VineTech Canada Inc. 533 Vitis-import 401 Vivid Machines 610 Wellington Produce Packaging 1223 Whiffletree Farm and Nursery Inc. 506 Willsie Equipment Sales 1316 Windward Drones Inc. 534 Workplace Safety & Prevention Services 1432 Workplace Safety and Insurance Board 1229 Yara Canada

MAPS N I A G A R A FA L L S C O N V E N T I O N C E N T R E — F I R S T L E V E L

N I A G A R A FA L L S C O N V E N T I O N C E N T R E — S E C O N D L E V E L

Shuttle Bus Schedule

Complimentary shuttle bus service is provided between the Niagara Falls Convention Centre, the Embassy Suites Fallsview Hotel and the Wyndham Fallsview Hotel.

TUESDAY Noon – 6:00 pm WEDNESDAY 7:00 am – 7:15 pm THURSDAY 7:00 am – 5:30 pm

7

BERRIES

FARMERS’ MARKETS ONTARIO

COMMUNICATING ABOUT FOOD AND FARMING

BALLROOM C AGRITOURISM ONTARIO BRASSICA

ROOMS 201 & 202

HOPS

ENHANCING THE CROP HUB & CROPIPM: INSIGHTS & FEEDBACK

SPONSORED BY:

8:30 – 5:00 Trade Show – Exhibition Hall

Chair: Elmer Buchanan, FMO

Chair: Stefan Larrass, OFVGA

LABOUR #1

ROOM 205

Chair: Wendy McFadden-Smith, OMAFA

TENDER FRUIT

ROOM 206

Chairs: Jennifer Kelly, Brock University & Kevin Montgomery, OMAFA

OENOLOGY & CIDER

ROOMS 207 & 208

12:00 – 2:00 Lunch and Trade Show

9:30 Update on Spider Mite Biocontrol and Flea Beetle Distribution in Ontario Hops Justin Renkema, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

8:30 – 5:00 Research Poster Display – Front Foyer

SPONSORED BY:

9:30 Effective Health and Safety 9:30 Reduced Representatives Sensitivity to DMI Jay Remsik, Workplace Fungicides in the 9:30 Use of Safety and Prevention Brown Rot Pathogen Non-Traditional Services Yeast to Mitigate and Management the Effects of Approaches 10:00 Onboarding Botrytis and Sour Katie Goldenhar, BC Employees (TFWs & Ministry of Agriculture Rot Domestic Labour) Food; Guido Schnabel, Debbie Inglis, Shawn McGowan, Brock University Clemson University, 10:00 Importance Agri-Business HR USA Solutions of Coverage/ 10:00 There’s No Improving Surefire Way – 10:00 Advances in 10:30 WSIB’s Foreign Coverage in Challenges Faced Pest Management Agricultural Worker Tall Crops as a Niagara of Scale Insects in Strategy and What David Manktelow, Winemaker Tree Fruit it Means for TFW Applied Research & Brett Blaauw, University Marc Bradshaw, Employers Technologies Ltd., Arterra Wines of Georgia, USA Kendra Holliday-Bryant, New Zealand WSIB 10:30 Issues at 10:30 Insights 10:30 Impact the Crossroads of on Biology and 11:00 SAWP Source of Drying Cider and Wine Epidemiology of Country Update: Temperature Eleanor Leger, Peach Leaf Curl Panel – Trinidad & on Aroma Hop Irene Salotti, Università Eden Specialty Tobago, Barbados, Quality Ciders, USA Cattolica del Sacro Organization of Lindsey Rubottom, Cuore, Italy Eastern Caribbean 11:00 The University of Oregon, States (OECS) Cider Project: 11:00 Peach Leaf USA Asha JagassarBroadening Curl 2024: What Jaggernauth, Consulate Worked, What 11:00 Impact of Opportunities Temperature and General of the Republic Didn’t and Possible for New York’s of Trinidad and Tobago; Future Options for Other On-Farm Growers and Shirley Wall-Mayers, Parameters on Cider Makers Management Ken Mason, Consulate Wendy McFaddenHop Quality Megan Larmer, Lindsey Rubottom, General of Barbados; Kate Anstreicher, Smith, OMAFA University of Oregon, Olaf Fontenelle, The Glynwood SPONSORED BY: Sandra Bobb, Eastern USA Center for Regional Carribean Liaison Food and Farming, Services USA (Live stream)

Chairs: Evan Elford & Melanie Filotas, OMAFA

ROOMS 204

SESSIONS DAY 1

MORNING ROOM 203

Chairs: Erica Pate, Chair: Kelly Daynard, Chair: Kevin Chair: Travis Chairs: Nicole OMAFA; Victoria Vallier, Agritourism Cranmer, OMAFA Berardi & Cora Farm & Food Care Buma, Berry Ontario Loucks, OMAFA 9:30 Major 9:30 2024 9:30 Speaking Growers of Ontario Brassica Pests 9:30 Pursuit Market of the 9:30 Crop Hub Up About Food 9:30 Taylor and Diseases of Excellence: Year Award and CropIPM and Farming Farms Muskoka Workshop #1 Growing for Gold in 2024 Debi Croucher, Update: Demo of – Self Awareness, Travis Cranmer, Downtown Windsor Grower Profile New Features Kelly Daynard, Sarah and Aaron Leadership and OMAFA Farmers’ Market Joe Miller, Zengenti; Farm & Food Care Shaw, Taylor Farms Teamwork Nicole Berardi, 10:15 Managing 10:00 Reducing 10:30 – 11:30 Muskoka Cheryl Pounder, OMAFA Alternaria Leaf Waste at Speaking Up 2x Olympic Gold 10:00 Optically Spot and Head Farmers’ 10:00 – 11:30 About Food Medalist/World Targeted Rot in Broccoli Markets Question & and Farming Champion/NHL Herbicide with Fungicides Answer Feedback Gabriella Dee, Workshop #2 Broadcaster Application in New York Memorial Centre Session Kelly Daynard, in Highbush Christy Hoepting, Joe Miller, Zengenti; 10:30 Loving Farmers’ Market Farm & Food Care Blueberry and Living Your Cornell University, Nicole Berardi, 10:30 Farm Thierry E. Besançon, USA Brand OMAFA; Cora Fresh at Your Rutgers University, Andrea Kaiser, Loucks, OMAFA 11:00 Market – OFAUSA Kaiser Design and Investigating FMO Partnership Marketing 10:30 Soilborne Fungicides Paul Maurice, for Alternaria Ontario Federation Disease Management Management in of Agriculture Marvin P. Pritts, Ontario Brassica 11:00 Cornell University, Vegetables Funding Your USA Katie Goldenhar, Market – An BC Ministry of Unconventional 11:00 Ontario Agriculture and Farm Products Guide Food Marketing Jaime Grant, SPONSORED BY: Commission 101 Innisfil & Barrie Farmers’ Markets Amy Cronin, Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission

BALLROOM B

BALLROOM A

BALLROOM D

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2025

(All sessions and speakers subject to change. Some presentations may be live streamed or pre-recorded.)

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2025

BERRIES

FARMERS’ MARKETS ONTARIO APPLES

BALLROOM C AGRITOURISM ONTARIO

BALLROOM D SWEET CORN & CUCURBITS

ROOMS 201 & 202

SPONSORED BY:

3:30 Field Release of 3:30 Improving the Asian Parasitoid, Spraying Ganaspis kimorum, Practices and for Biological Control Spray Application Tara Gariepy, Strategies – An NZ Agriculture and AgriJourney Food Canada David Manktelow, SPONSORED BY: Applied Research & Technologies Ltd., New Zealand; Katie Goldenhar, BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food; Poliana Francescatto, Valent BioSciences (Live stream)

8:30 – 5:00 Trade Show – Exhibition Hall

Chair: Elmer Buchanan, FMO

HAZELNUTS

COST OF PRODUCTION: MACHINERY COSTS

12:00 – 2:00 Lunch and Trade Show

2:00 Knowing Your Machinery Costs John Molenhuis, OMAFA

Chair: John Chair: Melanie Molenhuis, OMAFA Filotas, OMAFA

ROOM 204

ROOM 203

Chair: Sean Westerveld, OMAFA

LAVENDER

ROOM 205

SESSIONS DAY 1

AFTERNOON

GRAPES

ROOMS 207 & 208

Chair: Sarah Chair: Wendy Marshall, Ontario McFadden-Smith, Tender Fruit Growers OMAFA

TENDER FRUIT

ROOM 206

Incorporated

Incorporated

Incorporated

8:30 – 5:00 Research Poster Display – Front Foyer

Ontario

Ontario

Ontario

2:00 Pricing and 2:00 Optically 2:00 Hosting Promotion for 2:00 Recent Targeted a Lavender Profit Advancements of Melissa Schooley, Festival Off Site Herbicide Domestic Clean Apple Hill Lavender Beth Hammerberg, Application in Plant Program Down by the River Tender Fruit for Grapevines in 2:30 Accounting 2:30 Selling Thierry E. Besançon, Canada Lavender, USA for Tracking/ Local – Rutgers University, Sud Poojari, 2:30 Panel on Managing Consumer USA Cool Climate Festivals and Machinery Costs Perceptions of Oenology and 2:30 Fruit Events Greg Simpson, Local Products Viticulture Institute– Production Arthur Lin, MNP and How to Brock University for the Future: Lavender Polo Increase Sales 3:00 Getting Washington State 2:30 Results of a Farm; Julie Alicia Rihn, the Most Thurgood-Burnett, Smart Orchard University of Chemical Control Out of Farm Lav Khot, Hereward Farm; Tennessee, USA Trial for Spotted Mechanization Beth Hammerberg, Washington State Lanternfly Joe Pillitteri, 3:00 Marketing University, USA Down by the Doug Pfeiffer, Lakeview Vineyard Local Hazelnuts (Live stream) River Lavender, Virginia Tech, USA; Equipment Inc. – USA; Christine Josh Mosiondz, 3:00 Panel on A Case Study 3:30 Financing Arezzi, Bluewater OMAFA Optimizing Water from the Machinery Dos Lavender Use in Orchards Midwestern USA 3:00 Best Use and Don’ts Myroslava Khomik, 3:30 Ontario Emma Dempsey, of Biological Bill Stockwell, University of American Hazelnut Lavender Solutions in Crop 3:30 Review of Farm Credit Waterloo; Brett Ruck, Protection and Association Company, USA Pumpkin and Canada Town of NOTL AGM Plant Health for Squash Hybrids SPONSORED BY: 3:30 Grower Vineyards 3:30 Tomorrow’s from 2020–2023 Panel – Pam Marrone, Forecast: Warmer, Jim Jasinski, Marketing Invasive Species Wetter, and Wilder The Ohio State Hazelnuts in Corporation – Are you Ready?

University, USA Ontario: Present David Phillips, and Future 3:30 The Ugly SPONSORED BY: Environment Canada Truth About Black Amanda Pilot, The Nutty Neighbours; Rot Control: Back SPONSORED BY: Rebecca Compton, to Basics Dalton White Bryan Hed, Penn Farms; Elisabeth State University, USA Burrow, Jewels SPONSORED BY: Under the Kilt

Chair: Elaine Chairs: Erica Pate, Chairs: Erika DeBrouwer Chair: Kevin OMAFA & Victoria & Kristy Grigg-McGuffin, Vallier, Agritourism Roddy, OMAFA Buma, Berry Growers of OMAFA Ontario 2:00 Tar Spot: 2:00 What Can Ontario An Emerging FMO Do for You 2:00 Effective 2:00 Sensory 2:00 Best Use of – Workshop Spraying: What Can Merchandising: Disease of Helen Scutt, Scutt Biological Solutions Go Wrong and How to Connecting with Sweet Corn in Crop Protection & Associates; Get It Right Customers One Julie Kikkert, and Plant Health for David Manktelow, Facilitators: Sense at a Time Cornell University, Melanie Anderson, Berries Applied Research & Joe Baer and Meg USA Pam Marrone, Invasive Technologies Ltd., Ottawa Farmers’ Lefeld, ZenGenius, 2:30 Fungicide Species Corporation Market, Jenny New Zealand Inc., USA Programs that Groenheide, Work Against 2:30 Anthracnose 2:30 FUNdamentals 3:00 AI 101 – Thunder Bay Resistance Issues of Fungicides How to Leverage Powdery Mildew Farmers’ Market and Neopest in Pumpkin Katie Goldenhar, BC AI for Your Management in Jim Jasinski, Ministry of Agriculture Business in 3:30 FMO The Ohio State Annual General Strawberry and Food Agritourism Guido Schnabel, University, USA Meeting Craig Haney, 3:00 The Use of Plant Clemson University, Lisa Cooper, AltaML 3:00 Laser Growth Regulators in USA FMO Treasurer Scarecrows to Apples – Why, When 3:00 Getting More Deter Birds in and How to Use Sweet Corn Ontario Berries into Them Julie Kikkert, the Shopping Cart Poliana Francescatto, Cornell University, Peter Chapman, Valent BioSciences, USA USA SKUFood (Live stream)

BALLROOM B

BALLROOM A

(All sessions and speakers subject to change. Some presentations may be live streamed or pre-recorded.)

BERRIES

FARMERS’ MARKETS ONTARIO

BALLROOM D

Chair: Kevin Vallier, Agritourism Ontario

Chair: Dennis VanDyk, OMAFA

VEGETABLES – CABBAGE MAGGOT

ROOMS 201 & 202

Chairs: Elaine Roddy & Evan Elford, OMAFA

PERENNIAL VEGETABLES

GROWER EXPERIENCES WITH ROBOTICS & TECHNOLOGY

Chairs: Kelley Knight & Chevonne Dayboll, OMAFA

ROOM 204

ROOM 203

Chair: Sean Westerveld, OMAFA

LAVENDER PRODUCT MARKETING

ROOM 205

SESSIONS DAY 2

MORNING

12:00 – 2:00 Lunch and Trade Show

9:30 Lessons Learned: Under Vine Cover Crops in Ontario Stephanie Vickers, OMAFA; Kathryn Carter, OMAFA; Josh Aitken, Cave Spring Vineyard

Chair: Wendy McFadden-Smith, OMAFA

GRAPES

ROOMS 207 & 208

SPONSORED BY:

SPONSORED BY:

Irene Salotti, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy

11:00 A Journey Across Botrytis Bunch Rot Control: From Modeling to Biocontrol Agents

Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute–Brock University

10:00 Navigating 10:00 Wine Weather a Successful Forecast for Rebrand in the Ontario: Warmer, Produce Sector Wetter, and Wilder Panel David Phillips, Kelsey Coon, Environment Canada Highline 10:30 ABA and ABA Mushrooms; Alex Chesney, BGO; Leah Analogs and Cold Hardiness in Grapes Hardy, Wonderful Jim Willwerth, Cool Sales

9:30 Perpetually Pessimistic?

An Update on the Canadian Produce Shopper Brian Ettkin, Numerator

Chair: Mary Haurilak, Ontario Produce Marketing Assn.

OPMA

ROOM 206

8:30 – 4:00 Research Poster Display – Front Foyer

9:30 Choosing 9:30 PEI Sales Channels and 9:30 Advances Research Results 9:30 Assessing in Rhubarb Field Bringing Products and Improving on Brassica 9:30 21 Secrets 9:30 Apple to Market Management Agricultural Insect Pests Market Trends & to a Successful Beth Hammerberg, Libby Indermaur, Robots for Joanne Driscoll, Farm Outlook Panel Cornell University, Down by the River Vegetable PEI Horticultural Mike Holtzman, Graeme Smith, Lavender, USA USA Production Association Loblaws Intl.; Kirk Holtzman Group, Geoff Farintosh, USA Kemp, Algoma 10:00 Lavender 10:00 Adding 10:00 Leaving University of Orchards; Erika Value to Rhubarb: Product Marketing 10:30 Maximizing out Lorsban Guelph DeBrouwer, Craft Beverages Experiences and Controlling Ad Spend and OMAFA; Rachael Arthur Lin, Lavender and Culinary Online Ticketing Cabbage Maggot 10:00 Vivid LeBlanc, Vineland Review with Polo Farm; Julie Uses Machines Ben Werling, Research & Thurgood-Burnett, Libby Indermaur, in Practice: Michigan State Shadi & Hugh Cornell University, Hereward Farm A Grower’s Innovation Centre Hugh McPherson, University, USA USA Experience Maize Quest, USA; 10:30 Using 10:30 10:30 Crop Jenny Lemieux, Shadi Hayek, 10:30 Asparagus: Branding and Integrated Pest Protection Vivid Machines; TicketSpice, USA Marketing What You Need Management of Regulatory Gerbe Botden, Communications to to Know Before Delia Radicum Updates for 2025 Blue Mountain Fruit Generate Value You Grow Root Maggots Chris Duyvelshoff, Alicia Rihn, University Elaine Roddy, 10:30 Clean Ian Scott, OFVGA of Tennessee, USA OMAFA Works in Agriculture and 11:00 Best Practice: A Agri-Food Canada 11:00 Asparagus: 11:00 Getting More Storage Grower’s Lavender Products In-Crop 11:00 Managing Practices for Experience into the Shopping Management Cabbage Maggot Ambrosia, Gala, Paul Moyer, Clean Cart Ben Werling, with Insecticides and Honeycrisp Works; Brian Peter Chapman, SKU Michigan State in Transplanted Apples Schmidt, Vineland Food, Nova Scotia University, USA Cabbage in New Jennifer DeEll, Estates York OMAFA 11:30 General Q&A 11:00 Christy Hoepting, SPONSORED BY: SPONSORED BY: Cornell University, Intelliculture in Practice: USA A Grower’s Experience Cole Powers, Intelliculture; Dave Petheram, Schuyler Farms

Chairs: Erika DeBrouwer & Kristy Grigg-McGuffin, OMAFA

APPLES

BALLROOM C

8:30 – 4:00 Trade Show – Exhibition Halls

SPONSORED BY:

Chairs: Erica Pate, Chair: Deanna OMAFA & Victoria Chakarova, St. Catharines Farmers’ Buma, BGO Market 9:30 Wilmot Blueberries 9:30 McGill Grower Profile University Farmers’ Market Courtney Stevens, Wilmot Blueberries Study Final Report 10:00 Berry Robert David, Variety Trials McGill University and Breeding (Live Stream) Updates from AAFC 10:30 An Beatrice Amyotte, Introduction to Mental Health in Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Agriculture Amelia Cassimatis, 10:30 Priyanka Gupta, Employment Agriculture Standards for Wellness Ontario Employers Valerie Henschel, 11:30 Foodland Ministry of Labour, Ontario: The Immigration, Power of Promoting Local Trade, and Skills Gigi Coronil & Jeff Development O’Donnell, Foodland 11:00 Ontario Understanding Carrier Volume to Optimize Coverage David Manktelow, Applied Research & Technologies Ltd., New Zealand

BALLROOM B

BALLROOM A AGRITOURISM ONTARIO

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2025

(All sessions and speakers subject to change. Some presentations may be live streamed or pre-recorded.)

SEED HEALTH AND TREATMENT

FARMERS’ MARKETS ONTARIO

Chair: Amy Fang Chair: Deanna Shi, Ontario Chakarova, St. Catharines Farmers’ Ginseng Growers Association Market

8:30 – 4:00 Trade Show – Exhibition Halls

2:00 – 3:00 Benefit of Organics at Your Market Cathy McGregorSmith, St. Thomas Farmers’ Market

APPLES

BALLROOM C

BALLROOM D SPRAYER BASICS FOR VEGETABLES

ROOMS 201 & 202 SOIL HEALTH AND FERTILITY

ROOM 203

12:00 – 2:00 Lunch and Trade Show

SPONSORED BY:

Chairs: Erika Chair: Kevin Vallier, Chair: Amanda Chair: Tejendra DeBrouwer & Kristy Agritourism Ontario Tracey, OMAFA Chapagain, OMAFA Grigg-McGuffin, 2:00 Cultivating 2:00 Spray Basics 2:00 Yield and OMAFA for Vegetable Connection & Quality: Finding 2:00 Every Seed 2:00 Community: How Producers the Right Fertilizer Workshop #1 Counts Understanding to Effectively Rates for Onions Jason Deveau, Sarah Foster, Adjuvants Execute with and Carrots OMAFA 20/20 Seed Labs for Improved Social Media Mary Ruth McDonald, Pesticide Christina CrowleyUniversity of Guelph 3:00 Spray Basics 2:30 Vegetable Application Arklie, Crowley + for Vegetable Seed Quality, 2:30 Options to David Manktelow, Arklie Strategy & Co Producers Seed Treatments Improve Nutrient Applied Research & and Coatings 3:00 Agritourism Workshop #2 Use Efficiency: Technologies Ltd., Alan Taylor, – A world of New Jason Deveau, Decision Support New Zealand Cornell University, Ideas for Your Tools and OMAFA USA 2:30 Getting Farm Techniques SPONSORED BY: More Ontario Lisa Chase, Tejendra Chapagain, 3:00 Vegetable Apples into the University of OMAFA Seed Treatments Shopping Cart Vermont, USA in Ontario: The 3:00 Soil Health Peter Chapman, Commercial Assessment and SKU Food, Nova Perspective Plan (SHAP): Scotia Bridget Visser, Identification and Stokes Seeds 3:00 Finding Management of Soil Your Niche or Health Challenges 3:30 What’s on New Market Inderjot Chahal, Your Seed? SeedOpportunities University of Guelph borne Diseases Panel and Seed 3:15 Fertigation Cathy McKay, Treatments of Systems: Nature’s Bounty; Vegetable Crops Applications and Glen Smyth, Mary Ruth Opportunities Appleflats McDonald, Friedhelm Hoffmann, University of Guelph 3:30 Outbreak Lakeside Grain and to Outsmart: Feed Ltd. SPONSORED BY: Strategies to 3:30 Black Magic Manage Apple and Micronutrients: Scab A Grower’s Kristy GriggExperience McGuffin, OMAFA Brian Rideout, SPONSORED BY: Manitree Fruit Farms

BALLROOM B

BALLROOM A AGRITOURISM ONTARIO

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2025

(All sessions and speakers subject to change. Some presentations may be live streamed or pre-recorded.)

3:20 Increasing Cut Flower Production and Income Dave Dowling, Ball Horticultural Company

2:40 Overview of the Specialty Cut Flower Sector in Canada Theresa Schumilas, Open Food Network

2:00 From Vegetables to Flowers: Farming and Selling Field Grown Flowers in Ontario Janis Harris, Harris Flower Farm

Chair: Cary Gates, Flowers Canada Growers

OUTDOOR CUT FLOWERS

ROOM 205

3:30 Local Food Procurement in Hospitals Wendy Smith, Mohawk Medbuy

3:05 Local Food Procurement in Long-Term Care Travis Durham, Grove Park Home

2:40 Local Food Procurement in Colleges and Universities Kristian Crossen and Craig Clifford, Western University

2:15 Local Food Procurement in Schools Jillian McCallum, VON – Ontario Student Nutrition Program, Southwest Region

Ontario

Ontario

Ontario

Incorporated

Incorporated

Incorporated

SPONSORED BY:

3:30 New Technologies in Grape Production Panel John Felice, Pellenc USA; Jenny Lemieux, Vivid Machines; other panelist TBA

3:00 Potassium Application Impact on Fruit Quality and Cold Hardiness of Chambourcin Gurkirat Singh, Penn State, USA (Live stream)

2:30 Vineyard Nutrition Monitoring Advances with HiRes Vineyard Nutrition Project Patricia Skinkis, Oregon State University, USA (Live stream)

2:00 Grape Vine Rootstocks for Ontario Jim Willwerth, Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute–Brock University

Chair: Kathryn Carter, OMAFA

GRAPES

GROWING OPPORTUNITIES IN PUBLIC SECTOR LOCAL FOOD PROCUREMENT

Chairs: Jeff O’Donnell, OMAFA & Dan Tukendorf, OFVGA

ROOMS 207 & 208

ROOM 206

8:30 – 4:00 Research Poster Display – Front Foyer

3:30 SAWP & LICC Update Ken Forth, F.A.R.M.S.

3:00 SAWP Source Country Update Althea Riley, The Jamaican Liaison Service

2:30 Navigating Processes in the TFW Program: Best Practices and Tips for Employers Shawn McGowan, Agri-Business HR Solutions

2:00 SAWP Source Country Update Mexican consulate

Chair: Stefan Larrass, OFVG

LABOUR #2

ROOM 204

SESSIONS DAY 2

AFTERNOON

SPEAKER BIOGRAPHIES JOSH AITKEN Josh is the vineyard manager at Cave Spring Vineyard, Beamsville, Ontario with a focus on premium and sus tainable vineyard management practices. He has previous vineyard management experience with several leading Ontario wineries and a graduate of the Winery and Viticulture Technician program at Niagara College.

BEATRICE AMYOTTE Beatrice is the small fruit germplasm development scientist at the A AFC Kentville Research and Development Centre. Her program focuses on breeding strawberries, raspberries and other small fruits for production in Canada. Dr. Amyotte co-leads the Canadian Berry Trial Network, an industry-funded project which coordinates advanced testing of strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry varieties in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia. Along with industry-focused research, Dr. Amyotte conducts pre-breeding activities including genetics studies and germplasm development.

MELANIE ANDERSON Melanie is deeply immersed in the world of farmers’ markets, boasting over a decade of experience in market management in Ottawa and beyond. Her passion lies in collaborating with producers and fostering community engagement with local artisans and makers.

Melanie comes equipped with a background in environmental studies, with a concentration on local food systems and food security. She is also a board member with The Ottawa Festivals Network as well as Farmers Markets Ontario–as the eastern Ontario representative.

KATE ANSTREICHER Kate has worked at the Glynwood Center for Food and Farming since spring 2019.

As Program Manager, Kate organizes the Cider Project and the Hudson Valley CSA Coalition as well as working closely with

12

farmer training and food equity programs such as the Hudson Valley Apprenticeship, CSA is a SNAP, and the Food Sovereignty Fund. In helping build and maintain Glynwood’s networks of farmers, chefs, cider makers, and other food system actors, Kate works with the aim of establishing a more cohesive, equitable and robust Hudson Valley. Before coming to Glynwood, Kate worked as an environmental science educator in New York City through the organization Christodora. She additionally did freelance research for the Open Space Institute and for the Overbrook Foundation on issues surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion in environmental programming and sustainability in the cattle industry.

Kate graduated from Yale in 2018 with a degree in Environmental Studies. Her work for the Yale Sustainable Food Program gave her experience in event planning, organic farming, food justice, and outdoor education. Originally from Iowa, Kate sees sustainable agriculture as an imperative initiative to protect the environment and local farming communities.

CHRISTINE AREZZI Bluewater Lavender Farm began in 2021 when Christine, with her partner Mass, and their young son, moved from the big city and found their dream property just on the edge of Wiarton, Ontario. Their plan was to create a sustainable lavender farm. They moved into their new home in May and planted their first 1,200 English plants in June. These plants grew well in the sandy soil and a climate moderated by Lake Huron and Georgian Bay on all sides. The next year they planted more than 700 French plants, which also outperformed throughout the summer and following winter. In the summer of 2023 Christine and Mass lovingly restored a small barn on the property to their cute, but rustic, farm store. Onsite they distill their own essential oil and handmake more than 15 products. They offer on-farm experiences such as tours and yoga. In summer 2024 they launched a highly successful Lavender Festival at Bluewater Park in Wiarton. The festival featured a vendor market, live music, yoga and presentations.

The festival was featured on local radio, sponsored by numerous local businesses and attracted hundreds of tourists over two days. This will be an annual festival and Christine and Mass have big plans for 2025 and beyond. Supporting their dream, Christine and Mass are both successful leaders in the insurance industry. Christine is also the Education Chair for the Ontario Lavender Association.

JOE BAER Joe is the Co-Founder, Creative Director, and CEO of ZenGenius, Inc., a global visual merchandising and event design agency headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. With over 30 years of expertise, Joe is a visionary leader in the retail and event design industries.

Known for his innovative approach to the customer journey, he inspires and educates audiences worldwide as a dynamic public speaker. Joe has contributed to multiple publications, authored The Art of Visual Merchandising: Short North, and founded the Iron Merchant Challenge, an interactive retail design competition featured at the International Retail Design Conference. His dedication extends to his roles as President of the PAVE Global board, a member of the VMSD Editorial Advisory Board, and advisor to Columbus College of Art and Design’s Master of Retail Studies program.

Celebrating ZenGenius’ 25th year, Joe remains passionate about advancing the art and impact of visual merchandising and experience design.

NICOLE BERARDI Nicole is a Technology Transfer Specialist with the Ontario Ministr y of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA). As the project lead for the Ontario Crop Protection Hub and CropIPM, she is driving the development of innovative digital tools that help deliver pest management information to Ontario’s agriculture sector.

Passionate about making a tangible impact, Nicole is committed to enhancing these digital tools by prioritizing user needs and practical solutions. Nicole holds a PhD in

plant physiology from the University of Guelph, combining scientific expertise with a dedication to advancing Ontario’s agricultural sector.

including optically guided sprayers for perennial crops, autonomous seeding and weeding robots for vegetables, and the use of laser weeding systems.

THIERRY BESANÇON

BRETT BLAAUW

Dr. Besançon is an Associate Professor and Extension Weed Science Specialist for Specialty Crops at the P.E. Marucci Research and Extension Center, Rutgers University. His research focuses on developing Integrated Weed Management strategies for vegetable and small fruit cropping systems.

Collaborating with Northeast and MidAtlantic weed scientists, Dr. Besançon explores the integration of cover crops in plasticulture tomato and cucumber production systems. His work also includes evaluating red clover as a living mulch in cole crops and assessing goosegrass as a potential row middle sod cover in New Jersey highbush blueberry fields. In partnership with Dr. Sosnoskie from Cornell University, Dr. Besançon investigates innovative weed management technologies,

Originally from Southwest Michigan, Brett is currently an Associate Professor and Extension Specialist of Peach Entomology at the University of Georgia and Clemson University. As such, he is the regional peach entomologist for Georgia and South Carolina with additional responsibilities for a variety of other fruits, including apples and grapes. The research in his lab focuses on integrating insect behavior and ecology to more effectively and sustainably manage insect pests. Through addressing producer needs, his work highlights the importance of IPM and the support of beneficial insects for the sustainability of Southeastern fruit production.

GERBE BOTDEN Gerbe is the orchard manager at their family farm in Thornbury , ON. Blue Mountain Fruit Company grows, stores, and packs apples from other growers as well as their own that are sold to retailers in Canada and the US. With a focus on continuous improvement, Gerbe is always looking for innovative ways to continuously grow high quality and high yielding crops.

MARC BRADSHAW A native Aussie, Marc pursued a career in Forensic Science before being roped back into the wine industry while completing his PhD in wine chemistry. Following stints working in cellars and research institutes around the world including back home in Australia, Germany, France and South Africa, Marc eventually landed in Canada in 2004 to begin his adventures in the winemaking world of Niagara, starting as a cellar rat at Pillitteri Estates Winery. Being elevated to

H OT O B 24 #5

Crop Management Decisions Based on Real-time Data • Soil and temperature data anywhere, any time; on your mobile phone • Simple to install, simple to use • Solar or battery powered; no cables to run • Frost alerts, irrigation planning, weather forecasts, monthly reports connectedcrops.ca

905-629-0455

info@connectedcrops.ca 13

Winemaster at Pillitteri Estates in 2006, Marc focused on blended white and red wines, sur-lie inox Chardonnay, bold Bordeaux reds and of course Icewines.

Marc headed back home in 2011 before returning to Niagara-on-the-Lake, taking on the role as Head Winemaker at Strewn Winery which he held for 12 years. In 2024, Marc started at Arterra Wines Canada, based in Niagara Falls, where he is currently the VQA Red Winemaker.

INDERJOT CHAHAL Inderjot is currently a research associate in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus, Ontario. Her research focuses on understanding impacts of sustainable land management practices, such as cover crops, crop residue retention, reduced or no-tillage, diversifying crop rotations on enhancing soil health, agroecosystem resiliency, crop productivity, and reducing environmental degradation. She conducts research to evaluate the soil and crop management practices which benefit the growers by increasing crop yield while minimizing environmental degradation.

Chahal studies soil health, soil carbon sequestration, nutrient (specifically nitrogen) cycling and management, soil organic matter dynamics, soil fertility, and plant nutrition in annual grain and vegetable production systems. Her research contributes to providing improved decision making and recommendations to the researchers and growers related to soil nutrient management, building soil carbon and soil health.

TEJENDRA CHAPAGAIN Dr. Chapagain is Soil Fertility Specialist in Horticulture with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA). He deals with soil fertility related issues in horticultural crops including development of soil fertility and nutrition guidelines and reports, as well as soil fertility management practices in Ontario’s horticulture sector.

He is also coordinating OMAFA’s agronomic soil lab accreditation program. Dr. Chapagain received his MSc in Horticulture,

14

PhD in Plant Science and subsequently worked as a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Alberta and most recently as a Research Associate in the Department of Plant Agriculture at the University of Guelph.

PETER CHAPMAN Peter not only understands the food industry, he has a passion for seeing others succeed in this business.

His in-depth knowledge of the retail landscape and consumers has helped many food producers and processors. His valuable insights will help you navigate the marketplace more effectively and get your items on the shelf and into the shopping cart. Peter’s experience includes the entire supply chain and retail merchandising. Starting at store level, he learned the importance of listening to consumers and the challenges of implementing strategies at retail. He went on to Canada’s largest food retailer, Loblaw’s, for nearly twenty years. Expanding his knowledge working in various departments, including merchandising, marketing and advertising. In 2007, Peter started a company to provide customized services to producers, processors and retailers across Canada. SKUFood works directly with producers and processors to help them understand their customers, the retailers.

LISA CHASE Dr. Chase is the Director of the Vermont Tourism Research Center, and she is an Extension Professor at the University of Vermont.

Her research and outreach focus on the intersection of food systems, community vitality, tourism, and working landscapes.

With agritourism at the center of that intersection, Dr. Chase has worked with farmers, food entrepreneurs, and tourism businesses throughout Vermont and around the world for more than 25 years. She is the founding chair of the Global Agritourism Network, which fosters collaboration and provides education, research, and training for agritourism practitioners and scholars worldwide.

ALEX CHESNEY Alex is a Registered Dietitian and farmer living and working on her family’s fruit and vegetable farm Thames River Melons, located in Southwestern Ontario. Alex’s work is rooted in food, nutrition, and agriculture education and communication. She creates spaces for people to experience and interact with their food, at its source, and provides education about how food is grown, how to prepare it, and the nutritional properties it provides.

Pick-your-own fruits and vegetables, on-farm workshops and tours, recipe development, and produce home delivery (paired with nutrition tips, recipes, and tips and tricks for food storage and preservation) are just a few of the activities that keep Alex busy on farm. Alex is also the current Chair of Berry Growers of Ontario and enjoys working with the board and staff members to support the berry industry through research, promotion, and networking opportunities.

CRAIG CLIFFORD Craig is a Certified Red Seal Chef with over 30 years of experience in the Hospitality and Food Services industry, including 22 years as Manager of Procurement & Facilities at Western University. He is a trusted leader in procurement, building strong networks with industry leaders and fostering partnerships with local producers to ensure top-quality, sustainable sourcing. A passionate advocate for environmental stewardship, Craig is a two-time recipient of the Western Green Award for his efforts to reduce the university’s environmental footprint. His expertise in supply chain logistics, sustainability, and local sourcing underpins his dedication to innovation. As an active member of the Canadian College and University Food Service Association (CCUFSA), Craig collaborates with peers to address challenges and celebrate achievements in post-secondary food services. His leadership and commitment to sustainability continue to leave a lasting impact on Western University and the broader community.

REBECCA COMPTON Rebecca operates a mixed commodity farm in Norfolk County. For the past 3 years, she has been growing the value-added hazelnut portion of the business – developing flavoured, candied hazelnuts and chocolate treats.

KELSEY COON Kelsey is a dynamic marketing professional driving the bold rebrand of Highline Mushrooms, one of North America’s top mushroom producers. This transformation highlighted Highline’s leadership in sustainability, quality, and innovation, cementing its market position. At Highline, Kelsey shapes brand strategy, spearheading content creation, digital marketing, and event initiatives that deliver impactful results. Her creativity and data-driven approach have elevated brand engagement, boosted sales, and strengthened category growth. Collaborating with sales teams, she ensures strategic alignment across all channels, showcasing her ability to craft campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences. Kelsey’s expertise in digital marketing, influencer partnerships, and content development consistently drives measurable success.

She also contributes to the Ontario Produce Marketing Association’s Young Professionals Network, fostering collaboration and innovation within the produce industry. With a proven track record of delivering results, Kelsey is a vital force in transforming brand narratives and driving industry growth.

GIGI CORONIL Gigi is the Client Services Officer for the Foodland Ontario consumer promotion program. She has been with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) for over six years, contributing to various program roles. Before joining the ministry, Gigi worked in communications and marketing in the private sector for more than seven years. In her role at Foodland Ontario, she collaborates with food industry clients and grower groups, providing also support and guidance to logo partners across Ontario to

promote all the good things that are grown, produced and made in the province.

TRAVIS CRANMER Travis is a Vegetable Crop Specialist with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. He works with growers, consultants, industry, and researchers to improve production and pest management strategies for Alliums, Brassicas and leafy greens. Travis received his BSc in Biology and MSc in Plant Production Systems with an emphasis on plant pathology from the University of Guelph.

AMY CRONIN Amy’s past and present experiences include: Chair of the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission (OFPMC) since 2020; Chair of the National Association of Agri-Food Supervisory Agencies (NAASA) since 2024; Owner and President of Cronin Farms Ltd., a sow and poultry operation; Owner and President of Cedar Grove Pork Ltd., a sow and piglet operation; Chair of the University of Saskatchewan’s Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization; Trustee of the Huron Perth Catholic District School Board; Chair of Ontario’s Outstanding Young Farmers Executive; Vice Chair of Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers Executive; Former Chair of the Ontario Pork Producers Marketing Board (Ontario Pork); Former Chair of Swine Health Ontario; Former Chair of the Ontario Agricultural Sustainability Council; Former Chair of Grow Ontario Together/Eco Ag. KRISTIAN CROSSEN Over the course of his career, Kristian has had the fortune to cook in some of the best locations in Canada. After many years in the industry, Kristian attended George Brown College in Toronto, during this time he worked and staged at some of the city’s top restaurants.

Kristian spent many years as a Chef in Stratford, Ontario where he earned 3 ½ stars in Toronto Life Magazine at Carter’s on Downie and was endorsed by Where to Eat in Canada. Moving on to the renowned Country House Hotel, Langdon Hall, the 5 Diamond, Relaise Chateau and Grand Chef designated property, Kristian was Sous Chef under Jonathan Gushue, one of

Canada’s most gifted and celebrated Chef’s. During his 4 years there, Kristian refined his skills and appreciation for a truly Canadian, farm to table culinary expression.

Kristian went on to open braise food & wine in the Metro Hotel in London, Ontario. In 2015, Kristian accepted the Executive Chef position at Western, where he brings his passion for seasonal, locally sourced cuisine.

CHRISTINA CROWLEY-ARKLIE Christina is the founder of Crowley + Arklie Strategy & Co., a strategic marketing, communications and leadership business, serving clients across Canada. They focus on 1:1 client work, corporate training and facilitation, speaking, and 1:1 business coaching to help brands, businesses and leaders communicate their ‘why.’ With a particular focus and a number of clients in Canadian agriculture and food, Christina is on a mission to transform the way we communicate in agriculture-food and beyond.

ROBERT DAVID Dr. David is a professor of Strategy and Organization and a Desautels Faculty Scholar at the Desautels Faculty of Management of McGill University. He is also the Academic Director (Research) for the faculty. Robert holds a PhD from Cornell University. His research focuses on the emergence and evolution of industries, and he is currently studying the market for local food in Canada and the US. KELLY DAYNARD Raised on a farm near Guelph, Ontario, Kelly is the Executive Director of Farm & Food Care Ontario. She is a graduate of both Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario and the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program. Kelly is passionate about helping farmers and others working in agriculture to tell their stories to help Canadians better understand where their food comes from. A former reporter/photographer and communications manager, Kelly has been with Farm & Food Care Ontario since 2005. Farm & Food Care Ontario is a

15

registered charity comprised of farmers, farm organizations and associated businesses all working together to help connect people with their food and farmers.

GABRIELLA DEE Gabriella recently completed a Master of Environmental Studies at Queen’s University and specializes in waste studies. She is currently a research assistant at Queen’s, investigating how the City of Kingston manages its organic waste. Having moved to Kingston in 2020, the best way to make connections was to volunteer. A stint with Sustainable Kingston led to volunteering with waste reduction at local music festivals which led to volunteering with waste reduction at the Memorial Centre Farmers Market. What started as a commitment of a few Sundays has turned into a wonderful relationship with the Market for all the Sundays to come.

JENNIFER DEELL

EMMA DEMPSEY

Dr. DeEll is the Fresh Market Quality Specialist – Hort Crops with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA), located in Simcoe. She is currently studying the effects of anti-ethylene technologies on apple fruit ripening and physiological disorders during storage, developing optimum postharvest practices for new apple and pear cultivars, and investigating methods to improve handling and storage of fresh fruits and vegetables. Dr. DeEll was one of the first to receive the Agri-Food Innovation Award from the Government of Ontario for previous work on fresh-cut apple slices.

She has published over 100 scientific papers, as well as review articles, book chapters and full books, on subjects pertaining to postharvest physiology and the quality of fresh fruits and vegetables. She has also made over 220 presentations and is on the editorial board for the international scientific journal Postharvest Biology and Technology.

Emma has served as Director of Sales and Marketing for the American Hazelnut Company (AHC) for the past four years. AHC is a grower-collaborative building an industry for hybrid hazelnuts in the Midwestern United States. They operate under a membership model, purchasing hazelnuts from member-growers and bringing them to market through their line of roasted hazelnuts, hazelnut oil, hazelnut flour, and hazelnut snacks. Through AHC, Emma is building a brand for Midwestern hazelnuts that connects hazelnut growers to eager customers, interested in local, sustainable food. Emma led the company in rebranding, product development, and 4X sales growth.

JASON DEVEAU Jason studied biology and psychology at Mount Allison University, plant cell physiology at York University and plant cell electrophysiology at the University of Guelph. Based in

FOGGING For Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Storage.

Safe, effective, organic-certified surface disinfection.

Cleaner produce, longer shelf-lives, and better taste.

Fresh Yea.

Booth 1126 16

info@arbourdale.com

Ontario’s Simcoe Resource Centre since 2008, he researches and develops practical methods to optimize productivity, effectiveness, and efficiency in all agricultural spraying systems. Founder and co-author of “Airblast101 – Your Guide to Effective and Efficient Spraying”, he also founded and co-administers www.sprayers101.com.

DAVE DOWLING Dave owned a cut flower farm in Montgomery County, Maryland for 20 years.

Flowers were field grown seasonally, and in high tunnels and greenhouses year-round. The flowers were sold at regional farmers markets, Whole Foods Markets, and direct to florists and designers. Dave now works for Ball Seed with the Ball ColorLink Sales Team working as a Sales Rep and Advisor to Cut Flower Growers. He also works behind the scenes at Ball Seed to bring new Cut Flower items to the market. He is a lifetime member of the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers and served as ASCFG President for seven years.

his passion and dedication to sourcing local, he believes that promoting food first and providing fresh, local ingredients will improve the nutritional value and overall food quality in healthcare institutions, as well as stimulate the local economy. He currently sits on Georgian College’s Program Advisory Committee as an industry member for the Food and Nutrition Management Program. Recently, he has been contributing to the Ontario Seniors Nutrition & Advocacy Committee (OSNAC) and its associated working group, the Food and Nutrition Advisory Team (FNAT), with the goal of advocating and providing industry resources to assist colleagues with the transition to the Fixing Long-Term Care Homes Act. CHRIS DUYVELSHOFF

Working with the PEI Horticultural Association Inc., Joanne provides support services in areas of on-farm research and extension to individual producers, grower associations, grower co-operatives and agri-business. Together they work in partnership with our growers, AAFC researchers, FVGC and our provincial government.

Chris is Crop Protection Advisor at the Ontario Fruit & Ve g e t a b l e Growers’ Association (OF VGA).

OFVGA advocates on behalf of Ontario’s fruit, vegetable, and edible greenhouse crop growers. Chris’ role is to ensure that OFVGA’s members have access to the crop protection tools they need to protect their valuable crops. This includes seeking new registrations for edible horticulture crops and supporting continued access to currently registered products.

Chris also reviews crop protection regulatory policy at both the federal and provincial levels. Chris has a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Horticulture and Master of Science in Plant Agriculture from the University of Guelph.

TRAVIS DURHAM

BRIAN ETTKIN

JOANNE DRISCOLL

Travis is the Director of Dietary Services and Information Technology at Grove Park Home in Barrie, Ontario. He started his culinary journey as a cook, achieving a diploma in Culinary Management at Georgian College. He continued his studies, obtaining his Nutrition Manager designation. He is an active member of the Canadian Society of Nutrition Management (CSNM). He enjoys challenging the normal practice of relying on single food brokers by shopping locally and negotiating wholesale pricing with producers and vendors for the residents of his long-term care home. Through

The Head of Strategy and Solutions for Numerator Canada, Brian brings nearly two decades of industry experience to helping clients understand changing consumer behaviour.

Prior to joining Numerator, Brian worked at Walmart Canada for nearly ten years and before that, he worked for The Nielsen Company. His career has brought him to four countries, including the United States, Japan, Russia and Canada.

GEOFF FARINTOSH Geoff is a Research Technician with the University of Guelph, based at the Ontario Crops Research Centre – Bradford.

He grew up working on his family’s fruit and vegetable farm and market north of Toronto.

Geoff pursued a BSc and MSc in Plant Agriculture at the University of Guelph and now supports a wide range of research initiatives within the Holland Marsh.

JOHN FELICE John is a Vineyard Equipment Specialist for RDO Equipment Co., in Central California and for Pellenc America in Northern California, selling a variety of vineyard equipment for 20 years. His area of responsibility for Pellenc is Lake, Mendocino, Sonoma, and Napa Counties in California.

He also supports the Pellenc America Dealer Network in Texas, Virginia, upstate New York, Pennsylvania and the Grape Growers of Ontario. Pellenc America sells winery, farming and harvesting equipment.

John is continually learning from farmers throughout the US and Canada discovering the challenges they face in their vineyards and what equipment solutions they use to solve their challenges.

OLAF FONTENELLE Olaf has served as the Chief Liaison Officer and Head of the Eastern Caribbean Liaison Service (ECLS) since 2019. He continues to steer the strengthening and expansion of the ECLS, on behalf of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) – for the participation of Eastern Caribbean workers in the Canada-Caribbean Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program (SAWP). Olaf has 27 years of public and private sector experience in the international arena. His career has focused on International Development, Project Management, and Diplomacy in the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, and North America. Olaf continues to commit his diverse experience and energy to pursuing the sustainable growth of the ECLS.

17

Focused on your industry

The HSS CF is a trailer orchard sprayer offered with 1000, 1500 or 2000 litre tanks, as well as a three row option. ● Clean water flush tank ● Low noise ● Hand wash tank ● Low volume ● Consistent air flow The Intelligent Spray Application® (I.S.A.) from Hol Spraying Systems increases the efficiency of the H.S.S. CF series orchard sprayers. With the three innovative detection sensors on each side placed on the spray tower, the leaf mass is detected in real-time. In combination with GPS, the growing power of the planting can be harnessed, and untreated trees become a thing of the past.

905.563.8261 | 1.800.263.1287 info@provideag.ca | www.provideag.ca | ON, Canada

Surround yourself with a dedicated team that understands your reality. desjardins.com/agricultural-businesses

18

SARAH FOSTER Sarah has been involved in the seed industry for over 40 years and has established a Chilean based seed laboratory. She is an international technical auditor with the International Seed Testing Association. After qualifying at the National Institute of Agricultural Botany in Cambridge, England, she began her career as a seed analyst at Sharps Seed International, UK and later emigrated to Canada in 1984 to work with The United Grain Growers. In 1989, Sarah started 20/20 Seed Labs Inc. which is a highly accredited, independent seed testing laboratory operating in three locations, Chile, Alberta and Manitoba. 20/20 Seed labs is an authorized ISTA laboratory, CFIA accredited, and ISO registered and holds membership in Seeds Canada, CSGA and SCST and provides services for all crop kinds, including extensive quality and seed health analysis, molecular testing, and accredited crop inspection. Sarah is currently Vice President of Seeds Canada and chairperson of the seed testing and quality assurance committee also with Seeds Canada.

POLIANA FRANCESCATTO Poliana works for Valent BioSciences as a Global Technical Development Manager, with responsibilities for market and technical development of PGRs in fruit crops around the world. She received her PhD in Plant Sciences at Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Brazil. Before joining Valent BioSciences, Poli spent four years at Cornell University in a post-doc position as an applied fruit physiologist focusing on flower biology, plant growth regulators and crop load management of pome and stone fruit.

TARA GARIEPY Dr. Gariepy is a research scientist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, London Research and Development Centre. Her research focuses on invasive insects that threaten agricultural productivity, including monitoring and detection of newly established pests. Dr. Gariepy’s research also

involves the development of classical biological control strategies for insect pests of agricultural concern, including foreign exploration, assessment of target and non-target effects, coordination of biocontrol agent releases, and post-release evaluation of establishment. In addition, Dr. Gariepy specializes in the development and use of molecular diagnostic tools to assess trophic interactions between insect pests and their natural enemies. Dr. Gariepy currently works on several invasive insect pests, including the Brown Marmorated Stinkbug, Spotted Wing Drosophila, Japanese Beetle, and Spotted Lanternfly.

KATIE GOLDENHAR Katie is a plant pathologist with the British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and Food based in Kelowna, BC. Core responsibilities include addressing critical diseases, understanding epidemiology, improving disease management strategies, and providing education on disease prevention and management.

Previously, she worked at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribuisness as a horticulture plant pathologist. Ms. Goldenhar obtained her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Guelph and her Master of Science in Plant Pathology from Michigan State University.

JAIME GRANT Jaime is proud to be the Executive Director for the Innisfil Farmers’ Market, and the Community Development and Operations Manager for the Barrie Farmers’ Market. Previously, she had run an accounting business for decades before leaving to manage markets full time.

Her passion is really about supporting the communities for which she’s involved in and assisting small business owners to become successful. In her roles, Jaime spends time marketing, advertising, event planning and managing the financial reporting. Securing funding is also high on her priority list. She really enjoys the community networking, fundraising and helping other community groups thrive as a collective.

KRISTY GRIGG-MCGUFFIN Kristy has been the Horticulture IPM Specialist for apples with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Agribusiness (OMAFA) since 2011. She is responsible for knowledge mobilization and applied research for the apple industry in Ontario, Canada. Her area of focus is evaluating new technologies and strategies for managing key orchard pests as well as emerging pest issues, including both native and invasive species. She is the editor of several IPM resources including the Ontario Crop Protection Hub, CropIPM, ONfruit blog and the ONcore Newsletter. Kristy holds a Masters in Environmental Biology and Toxicology from the University of Guelph.

Prior to her current position, Kristy was involved with pest management and production extension for root, bulb and leafy vegetables with OMAFA. JENNY GROENHEIDE Jenny is a farmer. Her family has been involved in agriculture for 30+ years.

Farmers’ Markets are very important to her business. Currently, Jenny is a director with Farmers’ Markets Ontario where she represents her local Thunder Bay Country Market.

BETH HAMMERBERG Beth is lead instigator and entrepreneur on the family’s lavender farm where she has taken their business from ground zero to a growing wholesale and retail lavender farm without being an agritourism venue. The support of her husband and children as well as a strong adherence to their family values have led to the farm’s increasing success. She graduated from Washington State University with a BS in Agriculture Education (2002), MS Agriculture (2005), and EdM Teaching and Learning (2010). She is currently pursuing a principal credential and expanding the wholesale arm of her lavender business.

19

CRAIG HANEY

BRYAN HED

Craig currently leads the AltaML Venture Studio. This is the early-stage investment arm of AltaML, a large AI services firm based out of Edmonton, ON. In the past, Craig has lead innovation and technology teams at Canadian Tire, ApplyBoard, and Communitech.

Bryan is a Research Support Technologist at the Lake Erie Regional Grape Research and Extension Center, a Pennsylvania S tate University facility located in North East, PA. He received a BS in biology at the University of Illinois at Urbana Illinois and MS in plant pathology at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Tennessee. For 25 years, Bryan has been conducting research to develop and improve chemical and cultural disease control measures for grapes and educating grape growers with the latest in grape disease management recommendations.

Bryan is currently conducting projects to examine downy mildew resistance to FRAC 4, 11, 33, and 40 fungicides, mechanized fruit zone leaf removal for bunch rot control, a viticultural comparison of several clones and hybrids of Riesling, and alternatives to Phomopsis control in response to possible loss of the multisite inhibitor fungicides.

LEAH HARDY Leah is a Regional Sales Manager at Wonderful Sales with nearly 15 years of experience in the food and produce industry. Throughout her career, Leah has built a strong foundation in procurement, marketing, and sales, developing a comprehensive understanding of the industry. She has experience as both a retailer and supplier, giving her a wholistic perspective of the industry. Leah’s expertise in building relationships, driving sales, and industry knowledge, has made her a key asset in her field. Passionate about fostering growth and delivering exceptional results, she consistently strives to innovate and exceed expectations in the fast-paced world of food and produce.

JANIS HARRIS From a young age, Janis was always drawn to pretty flowers believing flowers may be in her blood. Although growing up on a vegetable farm, she wanted nothing to do with farming.

After going away to post-secondary education and having a successful optical career, Janis returned to her roots which re-kindled her love for flowers and farming. Harris Flower Farm, located just north of St. Thomas in SW Ontario, is a 7 acre seasonal cut flower farm that provides beautiful flowers for local farmers’ markets, weddings and events. It is their 17th growing season. Flowers are produced from April to October and in November and December wintergreens are used in arrangements.

They grow a large variety of annual, perennial, bulb and woody stem flowers. Janis is the incoming elected Vice President for the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers.

20

VALERIE HENSCHEL Valerie has worked with the Ministry of Labour, Training & Skills Development as an Employment Standards Officer since 2014.

She is a Human Resources professional, having completed her Human Resources Management program at McMaster University and holds the designation of Certified Human Resources Leader, CHRL as well as an Executive Certificate in Conflict Management from the University of Windsor. Valerie has worked in the private and not-for-profit sectors during her career in Human Resources, specializing in employment law and dispute resolution. Since joining the Ministry of Labour, Training & Skills Development, Valerie has appreciated the opportunity to use her skills to serve the public interest with integrity, honesty and commitment while administering the Employment Standards Act, 2000 through claims resolution and proactive workplace inspections.

CHRISTY HOEPTING Christy is a vegetable specialist with the Cornell Ex tension Cooperative Cornell Vegetable Program in Western New York, a position she has held since 2001. She conducts

on-farm applied research projects in demonstrations and educational programming in onions, cabbage, broccoli and garlic. She has a BSc (1997) in Environmental Biology and an MSc (2001) in Plant Pathology and Applied Entomology from the University of Guelph. In 2018, she received the Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Award for Outstanding Accomplishments in Extension/Outreach.

FRIEDHELM HOFFMANN Friedhelm with a BSc Hons (Agr) works for Lakeside Grain & Feed as an Agronomist specialist in high value crops and as a Consultant for fertility, fertigation in season and general crop and farm practice. He obtained a degree from the University Nuertingen in Germany, and worked in livestock, cash crop and vegetable farms abroad. Friedhelm immigrated to Canada in 1998 and worked at a large scale Suntastic Greenhouse as Grower and Manager for 7+ years and expanded his practical experience over 12 years as General Operating Manager at a 2000+ acre operation in Huron County growing various fresh market vegetables and cash crops. Since 2017 at Lakeside, Friedhelm works closely in the Hort/Orch team with field, vegetable and orchard crops fertility needs during the growing stage to improve plant health and yield. He developed a fertigation program with an equipment option for farm operations based on precision ag and 4R’s using technology Yield apps and SAP testing per growing stage. For each operation, he develops a seasonal program and updates for fertility and spray programs during the season.

KENDRA HOLLIDAY-BRYANT Kendra is a Project Director in Case Management at the WSIB. With nearly two decades of WSIB experience, she is passionate about making innovative change to support injured and ill people with recovery and return-to-work. Kendra led the Foreign Agricultural Worker Review playing an integral role in the development, launch, and implementation of the Foreign Agricultural Worker Strategy released in May 2024.

MIKE HOLTZMAN

DEBBIE INGLIS

ASHA JAGASSAR-JAGGERNAUTH

47 years of industry experience; 33 years as an F&B Consultant; 950+ projects worldwide; projects on 5 continents; 480 speaking engagements; designed/remodeled 350 kitchens.

Debbie attained her PhD from McMaster University in Biochemistry in 1995. After a three-year stint in the biotech industry, she joined Brock in 1999 in the Department of Biological Sciences as a professor in the Applied Grape and Wine Science program.

She took on the directorship of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) in 2008 where she resides today.

Debbie’s research program spans areas of local yeast isolation, characterization and grow up for wine production, Icewine fermentation and yeast stress responses, developing oenological processes to enhance wine aroma and flavour compounds as well as understanding the role of dehydrin proteins in grapevine cold hardiness. Debbie has been involved in the grape and wine industry her entire life and was Ontario’s Grape King in 2010. She knows first-hand the issues facing the industry and is happy to help solve them through research.

Asha is an accomplished public officer with over 30 years of dedicated service in Trinidad and Tobago’s public sector. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management from the University of West Indies, and certifications in human resources, marketing and project management. Asha has held key positions, including Chief Manpower Officer and Senior Manpower at the Ministry of Labour, where she oversaw employment programs, labour migration initiatives, and workforce development. Currently serving as the Consul (Labour), Asha manages the Labour Liaison Branch located at the Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in Toronto, Ontario. Her role currently focuses on strengthening bilateral relations with Canada for the supply of labor in agriculture. Her career exemplifies dedication to enhancing labor relations and promoting workforce empowerment both locally and internationally.

LIBBY INDERMAUR Libby is a graduate student studying plant pathology at Cornell University in the Finger Lakes region of New York. She is interested in specialty crops, their pathogens, and improving the management of their resulting diseases. Currently, she works with pathogens of rhubarb and winter squash.

Her research uses laboratory and field techniques to improve management recommendations, including fungicide trials, breeding line evaluations, and pathogen population genomics.

Achieve Crop Load Targets

Track Crop Progress

Reduce Costs

Data on every plant to enable accurate farm decisions and increased proftt +1 866-276-4248

sales@vivid-machines.com

www.vivid-machines.com

21

JIM JASINSKI Jim began his career with Ohio State University Extension in the Integrated Pest Management Program in 1993. He originally worked in field crop IPM but in 1999, was redirected to work in specialty crops IPM, where he focused on pumpkins, tomato, pepper and sweet corn. He co-manages the statewide pest monitoring network and has been the state IPM Program Coordinator since 2013.

Jim attained the rank of Professor in the Department of Extension in 2020. In late 2024, Jim transitioned back into the Department to focus more on urban agriculture, controlled environmental agriculture, entomophagy, research and new Extension educator professional development.

ANDREA KAISER Andrea is a notable force in marketing, tourism, communication, and hospitality, with over 30 years of experience. Her career began after

graduating university, when she took on the management of her family’s restaurant and motel in Niagara-on-the-Lake. After a decade, she returned to the wine industry, eventually following in her father’s footsteps, by launching her own wine collection.

Today, she consults for various businesses in the region and collaborates with her brother at Kaiser Design and Marketing Agency. Throughout her career, Andrea has been recognized as an industry leader and a dedicated community contributor. She has held leadership roles in local government, taught business management, tourism, consumer behaviour, branding, and public relations at the Canadian Food and Wine Institute, and serves on numerous committees and boards.

LAV KHOT Dr. Khot is a distinguished leader in the field of precision agriculture. He serves as the Director of the Agricul tural Wea the r Sensing Network at Washington State University (WSU), which plays a vital role in

providing crucial weather data and decision support to the state’s agricultural community. As an Associate Professor of Precision Agriculture, Dr. Khot’s innovative research focuses on integrating advanced sensing and automation technologies to improve the efficiency of irrigated and tree fruit crop production. With a PhD in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, he leads transformative projects that utilize IoT, cyber-physical systems, and advanced computing to offer actionable insights for protecting crops from abiotic stressors. His program also conducts research and education on the precise chemical application technologies.

JULIE KIKKERT Julie is a vegetable crops specialist with the CCE Cornell Vegetable Program, a regional agriculture team that serves the commercial vegetable industry in a large multi-county region in the western and central parts of New York state. Dr. Kikkert earned a PhD and MS degree in Horticulture from the

Strategic HR for Thriving AGRI-BUSINESS Agriculture and Small Enterprises.

Agri-Business HR Solutions, a dedicated provider of tailored human resources services specifically designed for the agricultural sector and small businesses.

At Agri-Business HR Solutions, we understand the unique challenges faced in the agricultural industry. Our expertise allows us to offer a variety of comprehensive services, including:

• LMIA processing and program navigation • Integrity Audit assistance • Crop Tracker and Farm HR • HR Policy Development • Employee Handbook Creation

• Recruitment and Staffing Solutions • Compliance Guidance for Temporary Foreign Worker Programs • Training Workshops on HR Best Practices

For more information about our services and how we can support your HR needs, please feel free to reach out.

Shawn McGowan Human Resources Specialist shawn@agribusinesshr.ca | 416-892-8214 | www.agribusinesshr.ca 22

University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a BS degree in Horticulture from the University of Maryland-College Park. She has been employed at Cornell University for more than 30 years and currently serves as the Team Leader for the CCE-Cornell Vegetable Program. Her research and outreach program focus on processing vegetable crops (beets, carrots, green peas, lima beans, snap beans, spinach, sweet corn), pest identification and management, weed management, and sustainable production practices. Dr. Kikkert is an active member of the American Society for Horticultural Sciences and the National Association of County Agricultural Agents.

MEGAN LARMER Megan is the Senior Director of Programs at Glynwood.

She leads projects that convene food and farming professionals to execute training, collective efforts, and creative projects that further the development of a regional food system in the Hudson Valley.

Amongst these are Glynwood’s Cider Project, the Hudson Valley CSA Coalition, the Food Sovereignty Fund, Grains and Staples, and Farmer Training. Previously, Megan was Director of Strategic Initiatives and Community Outreach for Slow Food USA. In 2024 she received her PhD in anthropology for her research amongst regional food and farming advocates in the Hudson Valley from the University of Exeter where she is an associate of the Center for Rural Policy Research. Megan also holds an MA with distinction in Anthropology from SOAS, University of London, where her research focused on seed exchange, first-generation women farmers and food heritage. Her broad range of experience in food and agriculture, including ten years as a restaurant professional, farmer’s market manager, and community garden organizer, inspire Megan’s continued determination to build more just and joyful food systems.

RACHAEL LEBLANC Rachael is a Research Scientist at Vineland Research and Innovation Centre specializing in plant breeding and variety evaluation. She leads a multidisciplinary team that

works to integrate genomics, sensory science and biochemistry into developing new varieties of apples. Employing a multidisciplinary approach to apple breeding ensures that new varieties produced by Vineland will meet consumer demands. Rachael has an MSc and an Honours BSc specializing in Molecular Biology and Genetics from the University of Guelph.

MEG LEFELD Meg is a trailblazer in sensory merchandising and a Director at ZenGenius, Inc., a visual merchandising and event design agency based in Columbus, Ohio. With over nine years of retail industry experience, she has worked with top brands in cannabis, garden centers, fashion, and food and beverage, managing visual projects and executing strategic initiatives to elevate client experiences. Meg’s personal journey of healing from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) profoundly influences her work, igniting her passion for sensory inclusivity. Her research into how the brain processes sensory stimuli drives her mission to create environments that are welcoming, comfortable, and safe for all. A sought-after speaker, she has presented at major events, including the US Capitol and the Retail Innovation Conference. Meg’s innovative approach reshapes retail spaces by thoughtfully engaging the senses to enhance the consumer experience and inspire connection.

ELEANOR LEGER Eleanor is the Founder of Eden Specialty Ciders in Newport, Vermont and is now the President & CEO of ESV Holdings, Inc., the combined businesses of Shelburne Vineyard, Iapetus Wines and Eden. She is the author of “Guide to Producing Vermont Ice Cider” and “Cidernomics: Life in the Underdog Economy”. Eleanor began producing ice cider in the basement of her Vermont farmhouse in 2007 and is recognized as one of the world’s leading producers of this specialty dessert cider. She has been a member of the Board of Directors of the American Cider Association since 2016, serving three terms as President of the Board, and is a Co-Founder of the Vermont Cider Makers

Association. She was also a member of the inaugural Vermont Working Lands Enterprise Board.

JENNY LEMIEUX Jenny grew up on a farm and went on to become a chemical engineer and then earned advanced degrees in product design and data science. She has extensive experience in developing successful physical and software applications at start-ups and corporations. Working with customers such as Ford, Scotiabank, and Walmart, her teams developed products used by millions of people, generating over $50M in revenue.

She is also a seasoned business operator.

Jenny is currently Co-founder and CEO at Vivid Machines, a startup developing spectral imaging and computer vision systems to revolutionize fruit production.

ARTHUR LIN Arthur is Director at Lavender Polo Farm, and an Ontario Excellence in Agriculture recipient. He has years of experience in agriculture, with strong passions in agri-business and lavender.

PAM MARRONE In 2023, Pam and co-founder Jim Boyd launched the Invasive Species Corporation, to bring effective, environmentally friendly biological solutions to control destructive invasive species, in water, forestry and agriculture. Dr. Marrone spent her 30+ year career focused on biological products for pest management and plant health, having started and led three other bioag companies (Entotech, AgraQuest and Marrone Bio Innovations), all of which were sold to larger companies. She is one of only 32 women to have founded a company and taken it public (MBII:NASDAQ). She has a BS in entomology with Honors and Distinction from Cornell University and a PhD in entomology from North Carolina State University. She is a Fellow of the AAAS, and in 2024 she was elected to the National Academy of Engineering and holds over 400 patents.

23

KEN MASON Prior to joining the Barbados Liaison Service, Ken was employed at Gymnasium Ltd. the premiere sporting facility in Barbados as General Manager. Before that, he spent 21 years in the airline industry where he attained the position of Duty Manager. Ken gained an Upper Second Class Honours Degree BSc in Management Studies from the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies. He also holds a Diploma in Management of Human Resources from Barbados Institute of Management and Productivity (BIMAP) and in 2008 completed the Diploma in Facilities Management in China. As Liaison Officer, he is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Toronto based offices and implementation of policies enunciated by the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Third Sector in Barbados. His main objective is ensuring that the Temporary Foreign Workers Program (TFWP) and the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program (SWAP) are properly maintained and executed here in Canada. Ken’s duties also include visiting and negotiating with all new and perspective

employers to ensure the expansion of the above-mentioned programs resulting in the number of Barbadian workers gaining employment on an increased basis in all sectors of employment in Canada.

PAUL MAURICE Paul currently holds the position of Executive Member and has been a director with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture since 2021, representing farmers in Peel, Simcoe and York. For 50 years, he and his wife Louise were dairy farmers in the small bilingual community of Lafontaine just west of Penetanguishene. Today, they raise broiler chickens and grow corn, soybeans, cereal grains and hay, and farm together with their son Alex, who represents the fifth generation of their family on the farm.

JILLIAN MCCALLUM Jillian is the Supervisor of Food and Logistics for VON – Ontario Student Nutrition Program (OSNP), Southwest Region, where one of Ontario’s largest

student nutrition procurement initiatives was developed. With extensive experience in food and Logistics, and public sector procurement, Jillian plays a key role in ensuring that nutrient dense food reaches hundreds of thousands of students daily across the Southwest region. Jillian’s expertise in supply chain management and commitment to supporting local growers has made OSNP a leader in sustainable food procurement. At the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention, Jillian is looking forward to sharing insights on fostering partnerships between local producers and public institutions to promote healthier communities.

MARY RUTH MCDONALD Dr. McDonald is a professor in the Dept. of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph. Her research and outreach activities focus on plant diseases, integrated pest management and vegetable production, especially for onions, carrots and garlic. She is also a member of the Ontario Soil Management

There is

No Secret Recipe For Fresh Fruits & Vegetables.

That’s why all of our ingredients are on the label.

Safe, effective, biostimulating fertilizers enriched with micronutrients.

For healthier, stronger crops and higher yields.

Fresh Yea.

Booth 1126 24

info@arbourdale.com

Committee. Prof. McDonald teaches Plant Agriculture and Plant Disease Epidemiology and supervises several grad students working on plant diseases and vegetable production.

WENDY MCFADDEN-SMITH Wendy has been the tender fruit and grape IPM specialist since 2008 but has been working in the industry since 1990 so she’s very experienced.

SHAWN MCGOWAN With years of expertise in human resources, Shawn focuses on providing customized services tailored to the agricultural sector and small businesses. His mission is to empower organizations by optimizing workforce management, ensuring compliance, and fostering positive workplace cultures for sustainable growth. He possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges within agricultural HR, offering comprehensive services that include policy development and LMIA assistance. Collaboration with local organizations enables Shawn to effectively meet community needs while maintaining a commitment to excellence.

His key services encompass Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA), integrity audits, compliance guidance for the Temporary Foreign Worker program, health and safety advisement, HR policy development, employee handbook creation, recruitment and staffing solutions, and training workshops on HR best practices.

Through customized HR solutions, he strives to enhance efficiency and contribute to local economic growth, nurturing talent and fostering an inclusive workplace culture.

CATHY MCGREGOR-SMITH Cathy has farmed full time organically along with her husband Gary for more 4 decades. McSmiths Farm has been very diverse growing organic vegetables, eggs, organic grains as well as pastured beef and broiler chickens. Cathy is a verified grower for the FMO My Pick program and has been an organic inspector for many years.

CATHERINE MCKAY

JOE MILLER

Catherine graduated from the University of Guelph with an MSc in agriculture, specializing in Plant Pathology.

She had the dream of becoming an apple grower and along with her husband, she started planting apples in 1980, while both worked full time off the farm. They began their direct market business in 1994. Together they are first generation farmers and have developed their farm from scratch having bought a run-down property. Catherine has been involved in local community activities, as well as industry boards. She has been a director with the Ontario Apple Growers for 20 years and chair of the board for 4 years and served on the boards of CanAgPlus and Summerland Varieties Corporation. For 25 years, she has owned and operated The Apple Doctor Limited which provided IPM consulting for apple growers.

Joe is a Product Manager at Zengenti with a strong focus on digital transformation and agile project delivery.

He has successfully led the development of high-impact digital projects, including the Crop Protection Hub and the Crop IPM digital platform, both in collaboration with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Agribusiness (OMAFA). With a keen interest in driving digital change, Joe approaches each project with an agile mindset, ensuring solutions are both responsive to user needs and adaptable to evolving industry standards.

His expertise lies in translating complex requirements into seamless digital experiences, bringing a strategic vision to every project. Joe’s work continues to shape Zengenti’s commitment to impactful digital solutions in the agricultural sector and beyond, making him a vital force in the company’s product delivery team.

HUGH MCPHERSON Hugh, Maize Quest’s Maze Master, has been “losing” guests and telling “corny” jokes for 28 years on his home farm. Maize Quest Corn Maze & Fun Park is home to the annual corn maze, HalftoberFest, Lavender Festival, Sunflower Festival, and Wine Your Way Out events. The home farm Maple Lawn Farms welcomes guests to pick-their-own peaches, apples, pumpkins and blueberries throughout the season. In 2015, Hugh launched Maple Lawn Winery to add value to the fruit crop and welcome a new market of wine-loving guests. Maize Quest helps farmers worldwide by designing and cutting corn mazes, building hayride audio systems, and creating blockbuster attractions for the industry, such as the Super Mega Slide and Pig Racing Rides. Hugh has served on the board of NAFDMA, the International Agritourism Association, and his books “31Day Workforce Turnaround” and “Customers Coming Out of Your Ears,” which were both Amazon category best sellers.

JOHN MOLENHUIS John has been with the Ontario Ministr y of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness as the Business Analysis and Cost of Production Specialist for the past 23 years. He leads financial benchmarking projects and cost of production budgeting information for the Ontario agriculture sector. John has a degree in Agricultural Business from the University of Guelph.

JOSH MOSIONDZ Josh is the Provincial Minor Use Coordinator for the Ontario Ministr y of Agriculture, Food, and Agribusiness based out of Guelph, Ontario.

PAUL MOYER Paul is the Chief Networker and Idea Creator behind ClēanWorks. A 9th-generation fruit farmer in the Niagara Peninsula of Southern Ontario, Paul is co-owner of Moyers Apple Products, based in Beamsville, Ontario, and established that enterprise in 1990. Moyers Apple Products

25

won an Ontario Centre of Excellence award and received the Premier’s Award for AgriFood Innovation Excellence from the Government of Ontario for tackling the issue of food contamination. ClēanWorks is a Niagara based business co-founded with Court holdings, providing food safety solutions for the agriculture sector. It has become recognized as the global leader in innovative technologies for both pre and post harvest crops. Born and raised on the family farm in Vineland, Ontario, he has a BSc in Economics and Marketing from Auburn University and a degree in Microbiology, Alfred State College, SUNY (State University of New York).

JEFF O’DONNELL Jeff joined the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness in 2007.

Since 2011, Jeff has been working as a Team Lead to support the delivery of Foodland Ontario which is the province’s key domestic marketing program to encourage consumers to identify, ask for and purchase Ontario foods first. Jeff provides team leadership in the planning and execution of communication, marketing and stakeholder relation strategies to support the economic development and competitiveness of Ontario’s agri-food sector. Jeff has also been responsible for leading project teams during the implementation of many elements of the province’s Local Food Act as well as other government local food initiatives.

DOUGLAS PFEIFFER Douglas is a fruit entomologist working on vineyard, orchard, small fruit, and most recently, hop systems.

Dr. Pfeiffer has a three-way split among the missions of a land-grant university (40:35:25 T/R/E). He teaches Integrated Pest Management courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, and a graduate course in Insect Morphology.

A main goal of Dr. Pfeiffer’s research program has been to reduce the amount of pesticides applied to fruit crops. His program develops alternative, non-disruptive tactics to control key pests, while improving economic injury levels and action thresholds. Interdisciplinary research on

26

insect-plant interactions has centered on spider mites, aphids, leafhoppers and Japanese beetle on yield and quality in grape and apple. Current research projects involve spotted lanternfly, spotted-wing drosophila, African fig fly and mealybugs in vineyards.

DAVID PHILLIPS David has authored several books, papers and reports, including a book on The Climates of Canada, and two bestsellers: The Day Niagara Falls Ran Dry and Blame It On The Weather.

He was the originator and author of the Canadian Weather Trivia Calendar. David frequently appears on national radio and television as a commentator on weather and climate matters. He has been awarded the Queen Elizabeth Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals and has twice received the Public Service Merit Award. David is the recipient of three honorary doctorates from the universities of Waterloo and Windsor and Nipissing University. In 2001, David was named to the Order of Canada.

JOE PILLITTERI After growing up on his family’s peach farm and earning a Bachelor of Commerce degree from McMaster University, Joe began working for John Deere Company. He learned a lot of about the business of agricultural equipment and, as his family grew, planted firm roots in Niagara leaving corporate life to pursue his own business and acquiring Lakeview Vineyard Equipment. The company is a leading performer in vineyard and orchard equipment sales in Canada and the USA and he is proud to be part of the farming community in Niagara.

SUDARSANA POOJARI Sudarsana is a Principal Scientist and Adjunct Professor at Brock University’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI). Sud received his PhD in Plant Pathology from Washington State University. He leads the national grapevine virus testing facility and grapevine clean plant program at Brock University. His

research is focused on advanced molecular diagnostics, epidemiology, insect vector-host interactions, and sustainable disease management solutions for plant viral diseases.

CHERYL POUNDER Cheryl has played on six of Canada’s World Championship Hockey teams and was named an All-Star Defenseman in 2005. She was also voted the top defenseman at the 2002, 2004, 2005 (MVP) and 2007 Canadian Women’s Hockey National Championships.

Her greatest career accomplishments are her two Olympic gold medals from the Salt Lake City and Torino Olympic Games. Cheryl believes it’s always about the journey! That’s the message she shares with every audience and that along the way, change is inevitable.

Embracing change and getting outside of our comfort zones is the only path to excellence.

Learning from both failures and successes allows us to “Grow for Gold” as true achievement is found in the details. It takes commitment, vision, leadership, teamwork and dedication not just some days but every day! Currently, Cheryl is working as a colour commentary analyst on TSN. Her most recent work included the 2018 Olympic Winter Games, 2014 Olympic Winter Games and 2013 Women’s World Hockey Championships. She is a board member for the Ladies’ First Hockey Foundation and Canadian Women’s Hockey League. As a mother of two daughters, Cheryl has recognized the importance of engaging youth. She is working with Fitspirit, a non-profit organization encouraging young females to ‘get active’ and make healthy lifestyle choices.

COLE POWERS Cole is the CEO of IntelliCulture and started the company with 2 other co-founders right here in Ontario. He helps ensure the organization stays user centric and is always facilitating feedback and grower’s needs. In his prior life, he worked in various engineering and management roles and is excited to be pouring his heart and soul into the agriculture community.

MARVIN PRITTS Marvin obtained a BS in Biology from Bucknell University in 1978, a MS in Biology from the University of South Carolina in 1980, and a PhD in horticulture at Michigan State University working with wild species of blueberries. Marvin came to Cornell in 1984 as the berry crop specialist with an appointment in extension, research and teaching.

He works primarily with production, season extension, and pest management systems in strawberries and raspberries, and has consulted with berry farmers throughout the world.

JAY REMSIK Jay is a Health & Safety Consultant with WSPS, (Workplace Safety & Prevention Services). He has worked in the Occupational Health & Safety field for 25 years, first with the Farm Safety Association and now with WSPS. Dealing primarily with the

agricultural sector over this time he has developed a strong understanding of the uniqueness of the sector and the challenges owners face. Jay has strived to build a solid relationship with every client he has interacted with over the years. A relationship that has been built on trust and respect.

JUSTIN RENKEMA Dr. Renkema is a Research Scientist in Entomology with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Vineland, Ontario.

His research program focuses on developing integrated pest management strategies in vineyard, tree fruit, berry and specialty crops. Justin has a PhD from Dalhousie University (20072011), was a post-doctoral researcher at University of Guelph (2012-2015) and an Assistant Professor of Entomology at University of Florida (2015-2018). His primary current projects include biological control of spotted wing drosophila in berries, cyclamen mite management in strawberry, leafhoppers and vectors of grapevine red blotch virus in vineyards,

24-UPL-2697 OFVC_HalfPage Ad Update_122624_VF.indd 1

mites and flea beetles in hops, and ambrosia beetles in tree fruit.

BRIAN RIDEOUT Brian and his family farms in Chatham-Kent along the north shore of Lake Erie.

Manitree Fruit Farms grows berries, tender fruit, apples and vegetables.

ALICIA RIHN Alicia joined the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville in July 2020. She is a Minnesota native with a background in specialty crop marketing research. Her research and extension programs focus on consumer behavior, willingness-to-pay, and perceptions of specialty crops and niche products.

She is interested in addressing how people perceive products, interact with them, and the best marketing strategies to add value for customers and businesses alike. She

12/26/24 6:56 AM

27

uses eye-tracking technologies and applied economics to generate actionable insights based on these topics of interest. Her current research topics include plant benefit information, native plant perceptions, alternative pest control methods, ecommerce, point-of-sale information, labour, and the economy.

ALTHEA RILEY Althea started her career with the government service, holding various positions such as Industrial Relations Officer, Direct of Documentation and Information, before being assigned to the Liaison Service in Canada, as the first female liaison officer in 2005. She was appointed chief liaison officer in 2024. Althea brings a wealth of experience to the position and is determined to make her mark by increasing the number of Jamaican workers travelling to Canada to work on the SAWP, as well as enhancing the services provided to both workers and employers of Jamaican workers.

LINDSEY RUBOTTOM Lindsey received her PhD from Oregon State University in June 2023, where she focused on the impact of kilning and farm parameters on hop aroma and brewing quality in Dr. Tom Shellhammer’s lab. Prior to joining the Shellhammer lab, she received a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from California State University, Chico. After graduate school, she was the Quality manager at Hop Valley Brewing Company. Currently, she is the Brewing Innovation Instructor and Lab Manager at the University of Oregon’s Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact. She is also an active American Society of Brewing Chemists (ASBC) member, serving on the Sensory Technical Committee and the Technical Committee for the MBAA Northwest chapter.

IRENE SALOTTI Irene is a researcher in Plant Pathology in the Department of S u s t a i n a b l e C r o p Production at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy. Her research is mainly related to investigate the biology and epidemiology of plant pathogens to develop plant

28

disease models for supporting decision-making processes in crop protection.

To date, she has developed and evaluated mechanistic, weather-driven models for fungal pathogens affecting several agronomic, horticultural, and fruit tree crops.

Some of these models are currently applied in decision support systems for crop protection within a sustainable approach to agriculture. Her studies also comprise innovative strategies for disease management to increase the sustainability of agricultural practices, including the evaluation of alternatives to pesticides and the exploitation of grapevine resistant varieties. She has been presenting her research results in national and international conferences, and classes for students and field experts though university courses and other teaching activities.

GUIDO SCHNABEL Dr. Schnabel is a Professor and Ex tension Plant Pathologist at Clemson University with over 30 years of experience working with pathogens of fruit crops. His research focuses on integrated management of peach and strawberry diseases. Specifically, he studies cultural, biological, and chemical methods to manage peach and strawberry diseases, to extend the productive life span of peach trees, to reduce pesticide risk, and to understand and manage fungicide resistance. He developed and maintains the MyIPM smartphone app for educators, consultants, and growers to facilitate disease diagnostics and communicate IPM principles. He is a Fellow of the American Phytopathological Society and has received numerous university, regional and national awards for his research and extension accomplishments.

MELISSA SCHOOLEY A professional potter for over 20 years, Melissa sold works across Canada, the US and as far away as Tokyo. In 2019, she transitioned to working full time for the family farm, Apple Hill Lavender, bringing with her, her expertise in marketing and value added products.

Apple Hill Lavender is now selling product across Canada, from coast to coast to coast

and into the US. In 2023, her family branched out and opened Apple Hill Apothecary and Medicinal Herb Garden in Niagara-On-TheLake, offering incredible, small-batch products and agritourism experiences to the Niagara region.

THERESA SCHUMILAS Theresa owns Garden Party Flower Farm, a 4 acre specialty cut flower farm ou tside of K i tc he ne rWaterloo, where she has farmed organically for over 30 years. She completed her PhD in economic geography at the University of Waterloo in 2014, followed by postdoctoral studies in the digitization of food and farming systems, at the Laurier Centre for Sustainable Food Systems. In 2015, she combined her academic studies with her grounded experience as a farmer to launch Open Food Network Canada. For the past 10 years, OFN has deployed open source software solutions to support the movements for local, green and fair food and farming products across Canada. Presently, Theresa is the project lead for OFN’s new “open flower network” project. This project seeks to help speciality cut flower farmers connect, scale and succeed in this emerging sector.

IAN SCOTT Ian is a Research Scientist in Entomology and Insecticide Toxicology with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) at the London Research and Development Centre. He studies the effects of insecticides and plant-derived metabolites on pest insects with a focus on horticulture crops. His expertise includes insecticide resistance, biopesticide discovery, plant-insect interactions, and chemical ecology. Ian’s current projects focus is on insecticide resistance in Colorado potato beetle (CPB), the use of fungal biopesticides to manage CPB, and the combination of IPM strategies to manage cabbage root maggot in Brassica crops.

HELEN SCUTT Helen, owner of Scutt & Associates, is a highly skilled consultant, trainer and facilitator. She works

with non-profit organizations and businesses to provide strategic planning facilitation, organizational development services, board and volunteer training and resource development. For over 30 years, she has worked in the community and economic development sector, helping organizations build their organization’s capacity and leadership skills. Helen is an active volunteer and has served on numerous association boards.

SARAH AND AARON SHAW Taylor Farms Muskoka is a family run farm established in 1994 producing and offering fresh produce to the Muskoka community and surrounding area. Initially started as a pick-your-own strawberry and market farm, in 2011, the first ‘everbearing’ strawberries were grown and expanded their season and wholesale market.

Strawberries continue to be their main focus and crop, but they also grow raspberries, corn, gladiolas, sunflowers, and a variety of herbs and vegetables. All their

crops and more can be found at the farm market which opened in 2017.

last 5 years he was the general manager for North America.

GREG SIMPSON

PATTY SKINKIS

Greg is a senior manager wi th M N P ’s Far m Management Consulting group. Drawing on more than 25 years of agricultural experience, he works with medium and large farming operations in all commodities. Greg has extensive knowledge and experience in cost of production, financial projec tions and government programs. His areas of expertise include intensive livestock and crop production and business consulting to primary producers. His problem-solving techniques and ability to establish strong client relationships gives him the confidence and knowledge to find the best solutions for today’s agriculture operations. Prior to starting his consulting career, he worked for 10 years in the animal feed industry, 5 years with OMAFA as an extension specialist and for 11 years with a global genetics company where for the

Dr. Skinkis conducts applied research and provides outreach and education programs for the Oregon wine grape industry statewide. Her research program focuses on applied viticulture and whole plant physiology studies designed to understand management of vine vigor/vine balance and impacts on fruit composition and wine quality. Her research also includes work on wine grape yield, canopy management, rootstocks, vineyard floor management, and understanding factors that drive vineyard production decision-making. As Extension Specialist, Patty develops educational programs and informational publications for the industry in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Her outreach efforts include bringing producers together in technical groups to foster information exchange and she serves on industry advisory committees. Her efforts expand beyond Oregon, as

29

she served as a board member and held leadership positions in the American Society for Enology and Viticulture, is a member of the Extension Committee for the National Grape Research Alliance and is an associated editor for the American Journal of Enology and Viticulture.

WENDY SMITH Wendy is a Sourcing Manager with Mohawk Medbuy Corporation’s MEALsource program. She has over 30 years of institutional procurement experience and has been working with contracting food for healthcare and student nutrition for 14 years. As well, Wendy has sat on the Canadian Food Policy Advisory Council since its inception in 2020 advising the federal government on Food Policy.

GLEN SMYTH Glen started Appleflats with his brother Alex in 2016 with a very simple mission: keep a type of Canadian crabapple from disappearing.

30

Together they set out to graft and plant their own crabapple orchard. To support the business, they needed crabapples. So, they began urban harvesting: harvesting from city streets, homeowners, colleges, etc.

COURTNEY STEVENS Born and raised in Newcastle, Ontario, Courtney is currently a co-owner of Wilmot Orchards along with her two business partners. Today the farm is comprised of approximately 164 acres of orchard and 35 acres of pick-yourown blueberries. Courtney attended the University of Guelph receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in 2010 and in 2012, received a diploma in Photography from Fanshawe College. As the CCO, Courtney is responsible for marketing the blueberries, hiring and training the team, guest experience, social media, product development, branding and organizing events. Some of her achievements include Durham Farm Fresh Marketing Association Board of Directors; First and youngest female President of The Bowmanville Lions Club 2016 – 2018; Judge

Brian Stevenson Award – Lions Clubs International; Presidents’ Award Coaching Certificate – Hina Khan Method Coaching.

BILL STOCKWELL Bill is a Senior Relationship Manager in the St. Catharines office for Farm Credit Canada. He is in the Ag Production division of FCC, with a major presence of tender fruit and vineyard producers in his portfolio. Bill works with growers to determine best ways to complete farm purchases, equipment purchases, construction projects, planting, and other capital expenditures, working capital needs whether through cash, leasing, or financing the project.

ALAN TAYLOR Alan is a Professor of Seed Science and Technology at Cornell AgriTech and started at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in 1981. Taylor’s research program can best be described as “modern seed technology” with many well-organized projects for multiple stakeholders. His responsibilities include 80% research with emphasis on post-harvest topics including seed quality, seed treatment and coatings.

Alan has 20% extension/outreach responsibility.

JULIE THURGOOD-BURNETT Julie is the visionary behind Hereward Farms, a serene 250-acre oasis in East Garafraxa, Ontario, where she transformed her family’s traditional cash crop farm into a thriving destination for lavender and sunflower lovers. With over 6,000 lavender plants and 400,000 sunflowers, Julie has made

sustainability and natural beauty the cornerstones of her mission. In 2021, Julie sold her successful marketing agency to dedicate herself full-time to Hereward Farms.

She blended her entrepreneurial expertise with a passion for clean, natural living. She is known for her commitment to creating all-natural, eco-friendly skincare and home products and has earned accolades in publications like Vogue and Vanity Fair. Rooted in her community, Julie draws inspiration from her local surroundings to craft experiences and products that bring joy and relaxation to her customers. Under her leadership, Hereward Farms has blossomed into a symbol of beauty, sustainability, and innovation.

STEPHANIE VICKERS Stephanie is the Sustainability Specialist for Horticulture Crops with the OMAFA based in Vineland, Ontario. She works with growers, industry, and researchers to assess new practices and technologies that

improve sustainable production in Ontario’s horticulture sectors. Her current work focuses on soil management, cover crops, and efficient nutrient use. Prior to joining OMAFA she worked at Sebastian Farms, a vineyard operation growing 1500 acres of wine grapes in the Okanagan Valley, BC. Stephanie received her BSc in Environmental Science and MSc in Soil Science from the University of Guelph.

BRIDGET VISSER Bridget is a Territory Manager for Stokes Seeds, trialing and selling vegetable seed and flower cuttings in Ontario. Her family’s farm grew carrots, onions, and greens. She holds a MSc and BSc (Agr.) from University of Guelph. Past professional endeavours include vegetable washwater management with OMAFA, IPM, food safety, and horticultural research projects.

Post-Harvest Rinsing For Fresh Fruits & Vegetables.

You put your best into growing it.

Now, put our best into protecting it.

Safe, effective, organic-certified water treatment and disinfection solutions.

For a cleaner, safer post-harvest rinse.

Fresher, Longer.

Booth 1126

info@arbourdale.com 31

SHIRLEY WALL-MAYERS

JIM WILLWERTH

Shirley is an Assistant Liaison Officer at the Consulate General of Barbados/Barbados Liaison Service. She has worked with all aspects of the Temporary Foreign Workers Programme since 1990. Shirley is very passionate in developing strong relationships in everything that she does both professionally and personally. During the past 34 years, she has enjoyed travelling all over Canada securing job opportunities for persons from Barbados and assisting employers in Canada to source employees when they have Labour issues.

Dr. Willwerth is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences and a Researcher in the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute at Brock University. The major component of his research program is focused on grapevine cold hardiness physiology and understanding how to maximize cold hardiness in V. vinifera and to further understand woody plant cold hardiness physiology and response to environmental conditions during dormancy.

He has an extensive program on grapevine evaluations including new cultivars, clones and rootstocks and how genotypes can impact cold hardiness, vine performance and wine quality. He also has over a decade of experience with effective technology transfer to the grape grower community.

BEN WERLING

growers.

Ben is a Vegetable Extension Educator with Michigan State University, where he has the privilege of serving West Michigan’s vegetable

598 GLENGARRY CRESCENT | FERGUS, ON | N1M 3E2 226.383.7678 | GRROBOTICS.CA

360 RAIN IS THE NEWEST CONCEPT IN AUTONOMOUS IRRIGATION THAT NURTURES YOUR CROPS BY DELIVERING EITHER WATER OR MANURE DIRECTLY TO THE ROOT ZONE. WITH 360 RAIN YOUR CROPS RECEIVE THE ESSENTIAL MOISTURE THEY NEED TO FLOURISH.

RISE ’N SHINE BREAKFAST THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 7:45 AM THE LOUNGE Advanced registration required.

Proceeds from each $10 seat registration will be matched by the OFVC and Farm Credit Canada and donated to:

Sponsored by

Featured Speaker Joe Pillitteri

32

FACES OF

Join us at the

farmers & friends reception Wednesday, February 19 5:00 – 7:00 pm Enjoy featured Ontario wines, hard ciders, craft beer, hors d’oeuvres, and entertainment.

THANKS TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS

33

OFVC POSTER SESSION 2025 ST UDENT SECTION Adopting conservation tillage practices to manage Pratylenchus spp. (root lesion nematodes) in agricultural soils Jerry Akanwari, PhD candidate, Brock University; Authors: Jerry Akanwari, Ping Liang and Tahera Sultana We studied the impact of conventional tillage (CT) and conservation tillage practices: minimum tillage (MT), and no tillage (NT) on Pratylenchus spp., a major plant-parasitic nematode in Canada. Our findings revealed that Pratylenchus populations were higher under CT compared to MT and NT. Additionally, tillage practices interact with soil properties, which can either positively or negatively influence Pratylenchus populations present in soil.

Optimization of vidal fermentation for increased volatile thiol production and improved aromatic profile Reid Ball, Masters candidate, Brock University; Authors: Reid Ball, Dr. Debbie Inglis, Dr. Jennifer Kelly Volatile thiols are aromatic compounds associated with desirable fruit aromas found in and characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc wines.

Preliminary research found concentrations of several volatile thiols in Vidal table wine nearing the sensory threshold. This research focuses on alternative fermentation regimens to further increase the volatile thiol content and improve the aromatic profile of Vidal table wines.

Spider mite IPM challenges: Pesticide resistance and emerging new species in Southwestern Ontario Mikaelison da Silva Lima, PhD candidate, University of Western Ontario; Authors: Mikaelison da Silva Lima, Joseane Moreira do Nascimento, Vladimir Zhurov, Reagan Michiels, Zoran Čulo, Ciera Wiebe, Alexandria Ojha, Tevon Pitambar, Renée Smith, Tracey Baute, Cara McCreary, Ian Scott, Tom MacDonald, Niki Bennett, Daniel Lizotte, Miodrag Grbić and Vojislava Grbić We will present the results of the pesticide resistance survey, which included mites collected from greenhouses and soybean fields.

We will also discuss the recent occurrence of a new spider mite species in soybeans, which has not been reported previously.

34

Evaluation of apple waste derived hydrochar as a sandy loam soil amendment for tomato plants

The influence of position and colours of sticky traps on leafhopper detection in organic vineyards

Aneela Hayder, PhD candidate, University of Guelph; Authors: Aneela Hayder, Jasmine Busschaert, Saikat Kumar Kuila, Animesh Dutta* Excessive use of fertilizers causes problems such as water eutrophication, increased soil salinity and the accumulation of heavy metals and nitrates. This study suggests that hydrochar has potential to enhance soil properties including water and nutrient retention, which may promote better plant growth and development. Gaining a deeper insight into hydrochar’s effectiveness as a soil amendment could help minimize water and fertilizer use in agriculture and enable the sandy loam soil cultivation, while simultaneously converting the apple waste into a valuable resource as a hydrochar.

Angel Ayele Lainscek, Undergraduate, Brock University; Authors: Angel Ayele Lainscek, Liette Vasseur Our research focused on how colours and position of sticky traps influence the monitoring of leafhoppers in organic vineyards in the Niagara region. Three different coloured sticky traps were installed at different heights and location along the grape vines. Leafhoppers and other invertebrates are being identified but preliminary results suggest that both colours and position influence the results.

Integrated approaches to cavity spot management and risk assessment for carrot grower Umbrin Ilyas, PhD candidate, University of Guelph; Authors: Umbrin Ilyas, Mary Ruth McDonald My presentation will focus on managing Pythium diseases in carrots. Specifically, I have been able to categorize fields by high and low Pythium risk through soil testing and microbiome analysis.

This categorization can offer growers valuable insights into disease risk before planting. This research holds significant potential for vegetable growers across Ontario, helping them make informed decisions that could reduce disease impact and improve crop yield.

Application of mid-term mix covers to reduce plant parasitic nematodes in corn-soybean rotations Rajin Knondokar, Undergraduate, McMaster University; Authors: Rajin Knondokar, Jerry Akanwari, Ana Borrego-Benjumea, Tahera Sultana The study examined the effects of single and mixed cover crops on key plant-parasitic nematode (PPN) genera in a rotational field (corn-soybean) in between production times.

Our study shows that use of single cover, rye, reduced Tylenchorhynchus populations but increased other PPNs such as Pratylenchus and Ditylenchus. In contrast, mixing rye with barley or oat are able to decrease both Pratylenchus and Ditylenchus numbers in agricultural soil.

An autonomous preemptive intervention technology for greenhouse application Haleh Nazemi, PhD candidate, University of Windsor; Authors: Haleh Nazemi, Arezoo Emadi This work focuses on utilizing autonomous and wireless sensors for IPM in greenhouses. This platform has the potential to reduce crop loss and improve crop yields in addition to advance long-term greenhouse environmental monitoring capabilities.

Use of locally-isolated Saccharomyces uvarum strain, CN1, to mitigate the negative effects of Botrytis and sour rot in white wine Daniel Phillipow, Masters candidate, Brock University; Authors: Daniel Phillipow, Dr. Debbie Inglis Sour rot and Botrytis infections degrade grape and wine quality, increasing acetic acid and other compounds that negatively affect sensory characteristics and lead to financial losses for wineries. A locally isolated yeast, Saccharomyces uvarum, CN1, demonstrates the ability to metabolize acetic acid as shown in red wine fermentations, and enhances volatile aroma compounds. This study extends the research to aromatic white wine fermentations, where CN1 significantly reduced acetic acid levels compared to a commercial S. cerevisiae strain, offering a promising solution for winemakers to utilize infected fruit and improve wine quality.

Characterisation of 7 locally-isolated Saccharomyces uvarum strains in chardonnay wine fermentation Frédérik Rivard, Masters candidate, Brock University; Authors: Frédérik Rivard This project consists of characterization of 7 locally isolated Saccharomyces uvarum yeasts in their capacity to produce new flavors and to increase the overall quality of chardonnay wine.

The project will be in three different parts. The first is a low scale fermentation to understand

the potential of the 7 yeasts to produce quality wine, the second one a large-scale fermentation in a commercial winery to see how the yeasts react to the scale up, and the last one consists of implantation of a commercial yeast production for the largescale fermentation.

BotaniGard (Beauveria bassiana) reduces clubroot on cabbage in controlled environment Kelly Ruigrok, Masters candidate, University of Guelph; Authors: K. Ruigrok, B.D. Gossen, M.R. McDonald Clubroot is a significant disease of brassica crops and has limited management options.

A growth room study tested whether a soil drench of B. bassiana biocontrol products, BotaniGard and BioCeres, could reduce clubroot severity in cabbage, showing BotaniGard significantly reduced the disease compared to non-treatment controls. These results suggest that B. bassiana has potential as a biocontrol agent for clubroot, warranting further research.

Assessing spore traps and forecasting models to time fungicide applications for Stemphylium leaf blight of onion Julia Scicluna, Masters candidate, University of Guelph; Authors: Julia Scicluna, Bruce D. Gossen, Mary Ruth McDonald Disease forecasting models have the potential to reduce the number of fungicide applications required to manage Stemphylium leaf blight (SLB) of onion. Forecasting models were developed based on spore counts and weather favourable for disease development and were compared to existing spray programs.

TOMcast 15 was the only model that reduced SLB severity compared to the control.

Evaluation of fungicides for Alternaria control on broccoli Mckenzie Susil, Undergraduate, University of Guelph; Authors: M.V. Susil, T.J. Cranmer, J.S. Mosiondz, K.E. Goldenhar The purpose of this field study was to evaluate the efficacy of fungicides against Alternaria brassicicola in broccoli. This trial provides insight on fungicides that may be more effective and emphasizes the importance of disease management in horticultural crops.

Impact of EcoWool on crop quality Isabelle Venzon, Undergraduate, Brock University; Authors: Isabelle Venzon, Liette Vasseur, Vaughn Mangal The usage of sheep wool as an organic amendment is a more newly researched

topic, Jennifer Osborn at EcoWool Canada is partnered with Brock University to experiment with this. This project aims to test the effects of various concentrations of EcoWool pellets on crop growth and quality, along with soil quality in perpetual spinach swiss chard, roquette arugula, and White Icicle radish within a greenhouse setting.

R EGUL A R SEC TION Dagger and ring nematodes: threats beneath the soil in southern Ontario’s fruit orchards Ana Borrego-Benjumea, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada; Authors: Ana BorregoBenjumea, Jerry Akanwari, Tahera Sultana This study examined the prevalence of Dagger and Ring nematodes in fruit orchards across southern Ontario. Over three years, soil sampling revealed widespread presence of Dagger nematodes and emerging hotspots for Ring nematodes in certain fruit tree crops.

The findings emphasize the importance of regular monitoring and the need for targeted management strategies.

Strengthening sustainability: assessing viticultural and oenological potential of disease-tolerant cultivars Alex Gunn, Brock University; Authors: Alexandra Gunn, Jennifer Kelly, James J. Willwerth, Debra Inglis Identifying suitable mitigation strategies is key to ensuring the sustainability of the Ontario grape and wine industry. One prospective avenue is the adoption of resilient plant material, including European-bred disease-tolerant cultivars. This poster offers an overview of preliminary research on the viticultural and oenological potential of select varieties emerging locally (ex. Merlot kanthus, Cabernet volos, Soreli).

Assessing pathogenicity: a simple detection method for differentiating Neopestalotiopsis species in strawberry Melanie Kalischuk, University of Guelph; Authors: Kalischuk M, McNally J, Baek J, Abaya A Commercial strawberry fields in Ontario were monitored for the aggressive species of Neopestalotiopsis species. This aggressive species was first reported as destructive in Florida in 2017. Of the 45 symptomatic field samples collected in Ontario, 42% tested positive for one of three distinct species

within the Neopestalotiopsis genus. The aggressive species previously described in Florida represented 81% of the positive samples, 6% of the positive samples were identified as Neopestalotiopsis rosae, and 13% of the samples were identified as a new and undescribed species within the Neopestalotiopsis genus. Pathogenicity tests in strawberry revealed differences in aggressiveness among the three species.

To differentiate between the three species, a modified restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) assay was developed.

Given the potential serious threat of the aggressive species, this diagnostic will provide rapid, cost-effective, and accurate identification of the aggressive species from other species found in Ontario.

Monitoring and identification of root maggot species in southwestern Ontario brassica fields Ian Scott, Fanshawe College; Authors: Ian Scott, Calla Durnin, Lauren Tries, Roger Murray The cabbage root maggot, Delia radicum, is the primary insect pest of cabbage, rutabaga and other brassica crops in southwestern Ontario. It is important to monitor the Delia fly population in the field during the season and to identify which species of Delia (radicum vs. florilega vs. platura) are present. Our findings from field trials conducted 2022 to 2024 will be discussed along with implications for D. radicum control.

Testing the use of native plant species in vineyards for greater resilience in the face of climatic and environmental changes Liette Vasseur, Brock University; Authors: Liette Vasseur, Kim Duffin Increasing local biodiversity can help mitigate and adapt to climatic and environmental changes. Here are are testing the establishment of eight native species between and under rows of grape vines in three organic vineyards. Results of the first year show strong establishment with some species already flowering, potentially helping in attracting pest enemies and weed suppression.

Note: The Poster display is available for viewing both days in the front foyer of the convention centre.

35

THE CLOSEST HOTEL TO NIAGARA FALLS • 42 storeys high with 613 spacious Two-Room Suites • Fallsview and Presidential Suites • 100 yards from the Brink of Niagara Falls • Located beside Niagara Fallsview Casino and Theatre 1 block from the Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Over 20,000sq.ft. of flexible meeting/banquet space • Professional meeting planners to assist with on-site/ off-site arrangements and activities • In-house sound, lighting and audio/visual services provided by Encore • High-speed wireless internet

You produce it We finance it Proud to be 100% invested

1.866.766.5218 embassysuitesniagara.com sales@embassysuitesniagara.com 6700 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, ON

in Canadian food.

DREAM. GROW. THRIVE. | FCC.CA/FOOD

37

Remembering Bob Chorney, a Convention Founder

BY JEANINE MOYER

Bob Chorney had an uncanny ability to see the positive side of every situation and he channeled this outlook with his unique skill set to create the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention (OFVC).

Launching the OFVC was a group effort, but most point to Chorney as the man who spearheaded the concept and steered the organizing committee to create what is now known as Canada’s premier horticultural event.

More than 20 years ago, Chorney recognized the opportunity to join two existing individual industry trade shows hosted by the Niagara Peninsula Fruit & Vegetable Growers' Association (NFP & VGA) and Horticultural Crops Ontario (HCO) to create the OFVC to serve a wider industry audience. Taking a ‘nothing will stop us’ approach, Chorney became an all-encompassing ringleader, cheerleader and motivator behind the first event hosted in 2003 and remained committed to the OFVC organizing committee until he retired in 2017.

Chorney died on July 14, 2024, but his legacy of bringing people together and his passion for Ontario’s fruit and vegetable industry lives on.

38

Building a Legacy of Excellence Described as a humble leader, Chorney was instrumental in bringing the two founding organizations together to create the OFVC. At the time, he was the executive director of Farmers’ Markets Ontario® (FMO) and a board member of HCO. “Bob saw opportunities everywhere and while it wasn’t always easy in the early days of organizing the conference, he had a strong, passionate personality that kept everyone focused on the end goal,” says Kevin Schooley, OFVC Director and Committee Chair. He notes that at the time, many thought Chorney’s vision of creating a new industry event was ambitious, but he never wavered from his conviction that the OFVC would be a success.

The challenge of bringing two industry organizations together to host a new event never daunted Chorney, who officially participated as an organizing committee member, but unofficially steered the group with his direct, honest and forward approach. “He was convinced this new event was the best direction for the industry and over the years, OFVC has been nothing but a

success, thanks to Bob’s input and the team effort contributed by so many people,” says Schooley.

Chorney’s partner in life, Catherine Clark was FMO Board appointed as their executive director after his retirement and continues to be actively involved in the organization and the OFVC organizing committee. She describes Chorney as a natural leader who was always quick to praise others for their contributions and a job well done. Clark also notes that he was always focused on making the event an experience for attendees, but that turning a profit was just as important.

“He set up the event to run as a business that, in turn contributes to the industry through investments in research and marketing,” says Schooley, explaining that Bob’s vision of creating an event that offered an exciting tradeshow, engaging speakers and plenty of opportunities to socialize continues to be an annual tradition that attendees look forward to each year.

“There were bumps along the road,” admits Clark. “But we learned from them, and Bob always saw them as learning opportunities, or new ways to become more efficient. His optimism always helped to keep us focused.”

Clark believes Chorney will be remembered for his role as a convention founder, but also for his ability to bring people together to reach a collective goal. “With the wrap up of each successful conference, Bob would eagerly start planning the next one.

He always welcomed feedback and was open to change to make the next event better than the last.”

Leader and Visionary As president of the NFP & VGA at the time the founding organization came together to host the first event, and convention chair for 24 years, Tony Sgambelluri got to know Chorney well.

He describes Chorney as a man with tenacity and unwavering conviction who had a passion to see NFP & VGA and HCO come together to create OFVC in 2003. Sgambelluri believes Chorney made him a better committee member and convention chair, saying “he taught me a lot about what it meant to be in leadership roles and I’m a better person for knowing Bob.” Looking back on his years as convention chair, Sgambelluri notes he had a fantastic group of people around him to deliver the convention, and he was grateful Chorney was among them.

Sgambelluri says Chorney was most proud of the progress OFVC made every year. Each event saw increased attendance, new opportunities and positive feedback. “It got better every year, and that’s what Bob expected,” he reflects.

Today, Chorney’s influence can still be seen throughout the event.

From the cohesive way the organizing committee works, to the high-quality speakers and the ever-expanding tradeshow. Chorney’s vision, leadership and savvy know-how of organizing a premier event continues today.

“Bob developed the framework of our speaker program, a tradeshow that engages and attracts people and mixed in a social component that pushed OFVC over the top as the place to be if you are involved in the North American fruit and vegetable industry,” says Sgambelluri. “He made it the can’t-miss event that it has become.”

Today, the OFVC celebrates 24 years of hosting attendees from across Canada. We are grateful for Chorney’s commitment to spearheading the first event back in 2003 and his continued commitment over the years to deliver a world-class conference.

Thank you, Bob, for your contributions to our convention and the industry.

39

The Pursuit of Excellence: Growing for Gold

BY JEANINE MOYER

The name Cheryl Pounder is synonymous with triumph, leadership and gold medals, but the journey to reach her achievements hasn’t been a straight line to success.

Like many Canadians, Pounder dreamed of playing hockey, even when women’s hockey wasn’t yet an Olympic sport. Her journey from the local ice rink to two Olympic goal medals from Salt Lake City and Torino Olympic games is full of life lessons that she willingly shares.

From and early age, Pounder was surrounded by family and coaches who taught her to ‘believe’, ‘finish something you start’, and ‘persevere through adversity.’

As a result, she believes adversity can be a learning experience, saying “it is important that we learn not only from our successes but also from our failures.

Change is the key to ultimately staying on the path toward excellence.”

Reflecting on her success, Pounder shares three key qualities that she believes can be applied to any individual, team, business or farm that is looking to grow and achieve success.

1. Personal Growth “We are all shaped by our experiences,” says Pounder who believes learning about yourself is a key element to finding your path to success. That’s why personal growth has been a fundamental part of her journey. “I’ve learned there’s strength and courage in vulnerability to not be afraid to share it.”

40

Pounder is also an advocate of embracing change and says that to be successful you must be willing to change. “You can’t wait for failure to change you, you have to change when you are winning to stay ahead of the curve.”

Throughout her experiences, working as part of a team and training independently to be the best hockey player she can be, Pounder has learned that her own growth and evolution is not only important for herself, but also contributes to her team and their ability to reach their goal. She’s experienced personal growth by learning from her failures, like when she got cut from the first ever Canadian women’s Olympic hockey team in 1998. Her response to what she describes as a crushing experience was to make a choice. She chose to learn from the situation, and with the help and support from those around her, she made a plan to improve her skills, both on and off the ice.

“Fear can be strengthening, and the face of any challenge, we can choose to learn from it to become a better person, teammate, business owner, employer, or anything we want to be,” says Pounder.

“We just need to be willing to change and do something different.”

2. Self Reflection “Reflection is massive and has been throughout the course of my career,” says Pounder who considers self reflection to be a key component of her ability to grow into a better leader. “It’s about asking ourselves what we are doing to think differently and challenge ourselves every day.”

For Pounder, self reflection helped her hone in on her preparation for game day and how she interacted with her teammates. Looking internally, she was able to identify areas for improvement both on and off the ice, including her interpersonal skills.

“Our character isn’t linked to any position, but rather on our disposition,” she says, explaining that no matter what a person does, being successful means understanding what kind of person you

medal game. Pounder says one of the key contributing factors to their success as a team was that everyone felt valued and that their role had an impact. Of course, the outcome was a gold medal for Pounder and her teammates, but the real achievement was their ability to recognize that they each had an impact on each other and to the end result and made the choice to collaborate.

Dr. Tom Wolf, owner of Agrimex Research and Training, between two sprayer drones.

are and how you contribute to your culture. And culture can mean a sports team, a workplace environment or what’s acceptable around a board room table.

3. Leaving an Impact When it comes to leaving an impact, Pounder references two roles – making an impact as a teammate and as a leader.

As a teammate, she points out that everyone should be working towards the same goal. And that everyone’s role, no matter how big or small, is critical. She also explains that the impact a person

“The execution of your role is critical, and when you feel valued as a team player you naturally want to show up at your best and contribute,” she explains. leaves is based on the choice they make about how they react or respond to a situation. “We can choose to be negative, like focusing on self doubt, or we can choose to connect with our positive characteristics, like courage, integrity, accountability and humility,” she says.

Pounder suggests that everyone ask themselves ‘what is the impact of my actions’ and reflect on how they affect those around them.

“No matter what your role is, our actions and how we communicate make an impact on those around us and to the end result,” she notes, sharing a personal example from the 2022 Olympics gold

“The execution of your role is critical, and when you feel valued as a team player you naturally want to show up at your best and contribute,” she explains.

Leaving an impact as a leader is also about making a choice, and choosing how your actions and communications will affect your team. Pounder points out that, “we don’t often value tough conversations, but that’s what builds relationships.”

And in a leadership role, authentic and purposeful communications is essential to keep everyone working and moving in the same direction.

“There’s a hope and optimism when we work together to achieve something,” says Pounder. “Make a choice to leave a positive impact that contributes.”

Today, Pounder works as a colour commentary analyst on TSN. As a mother of two daughters and champion for women’s hockey, she continues to live by her convictions that personal growth, self reflection and leaving an impact are necessary for success.

“It’s all about the journey. Embracing change and stepping outside our comfort zones is the only path to success,” she says. “Learning from our failures and successes allows us to ‘grow for gold’, no matter what team you belong to.”

Catch Cheryl Pounder’s presentation entitled Pursuit of Excellence: Growing for Gold – Self Awareness, Leadership and Teamwork on Wednesday, February 19 at 9:30 am in Ballroom D.

41

Weather and Climate:

The Times They Are A–Changin'

BY JEANINE MOYER

No one is more in tune with the changing weather patterns than farmers. And weather specialists like David Phillips, climatologist for Environment and Climate Change Canada.

“Weather has always been a challenge for farmers, but now, our weather/climate and environment are changing like never before, creating both opportunities and challenges for growers and farmbusiness people,” says Phillips. Such run-away changes include more variable weather patterns and more extreme weather-related catastrophes that appear to be occurring more often and with greater frequency than ever before.

Extreme weather conditions like droughts, floods, extreme winds, hail, and cold and heat waves aren’t uncommon, and were what Phillips describes as ‘once in a decade’ experiences. But now these weather events and their timing and duration are creating greater uncertainty for growers and wreaking more havoc on agricultural production. Even more concerning they are occurring sometimes back-to-back and year after year making it tough for growers to bounce back. “A farm enterprise can face one year of extremes, but can it sustain two consecutive years?” asks Phillips, explaining that “farmers know best what their increase in vulnerability means as weather patterns continue to shift.”

According to Phillips our definition and expectations of ‘normal’ weather has changed along with our climate because there’s so much more variability. And in many cases, these changes are creating hardships and unexpected concerns for farmers. He points to forest fires as an example of a new issue for Ontario grape growers. “Who could have ever predicted smoke tainted wine would ever be a concern for local grape growers? Today’s changing weather patterns are introducing a whole new level of headaches.”

Watching the Weather While weather patterns are affected by so many factors, the more a person can understand about their local weather the more management flexibility they have.

“Observing local and micro weather as close as what’s going on across multiple points in your field, orchard or vineyard will increasingly help farmers manage weather and the associated risks,” says Phillips, noting most farmers are already aware of what’s going on at their nearest airport station, but the more on-site information, the better.

On-farm weather stations, remote sensors, drones, radars and agrometeorological apps are all tools that many farmers already use and can be easily implemented. Phillips recommends farmers work with their crop advisers to determine which weather tool is best for their business and how the information

42

can be used to make risk management decisions. He notes how valuable agroweather information can be for long-term planning, including crop rotation and inseason decisions, like disease pressure or pest threats.

“The more and better data and information we have, the more quickly we can make better decisions,” he says.

Phillips predicts the use of on-farm weather monitoring platforms and the integration of the data with crop management decisions will help farmers manage the increasing variability and extreme weather conditions that are expected to continue.

Adapting Practices It’s fair the say that weather specialists are not always correct in their predictions, but when it comes to predicting future weather patterns, Phillips is confident that future weather is likely to be warmer, wetter and wilder.

Phillips explains that “no matter what our climate brings, farmers will need to adapt.”

He expects they’ll need to learn how to do more with less too, including less water, fewer fossil fuels and other inputs.

“Changing weather patterns mean we’ll all need to do things differently,” says Phillips.

“And when it comes to food production, those changes will start on the farm.”

Phillips points out that growing regions

across Canada are already experiencing warmer temperatures that are making for longer growing seasons and opening opportunities to produce new crops. Agricultural research has also helped by developing new hybrids, varieties and cultivars that are more resilient to drought and hotter temperatures. These changes mean that farmers will need to do things differently than their parents did such as adjusting planting dates and investing in new equipment and products to take advantage of the changing climate. He also says that better snow management to store water off season will be just as important as water management efforts to prevent flooding when it comes to dealing with greater moisture deficits and variability. Phillips predicts continued pressure from governments and customers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon storage and sequestration on farms.

Long Range Forecast Looking ahead, Phillips says that Canadian food producers will face more variable weather patterns, greater weather extremes and a general warming. What is constant is change. And farmers willing to do things differently will have a greater chance to succeed.

He reminds farmers that these changes are happening faster than ever, and we can expect to see variable conditions occurring year after year. Phillips notes farmers need to be prepared with better information and better tools to shape their everyday and longterm decisions. Moreover, they must be prepared to adapt to the changing climate and growing conditions around them.

“Weather knowledge is money in a farmer’s pocket,” says Phillips.

“No one has ever been able to predict what tomorrow’s weather will bring with complete accuracy and timing, but we can learn from our experiences and the information at hand.”

Catch David Phillips live presentation entitled Tomorrow’s Forecast: Warmer, Wetter, and Wilder – Are you Ready? on Wednesday, February 19 at 3:30 pm in Room 206 and Wine Weather Forecast for Ontario: Warmer, Wetter, and Wilder Thursday, February 20 at 10:00 am in Room 207.

43

Speaking Up to Help Others: The Joy of SurThriving

BY JEANINE MOYER

According to Joe Pillitteri there’s a common theme among Canadian farms and agribusinesses – mental health struggles that are rarely talked about. But Pillitteri is working to change that.

Born and raised on a peach farm in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont., Pillitteri is no stranger to the challenges and hardships that comes with farming, or the stigma around mental health. In fact, he’s on the other side of his own journey through a mental health crisis and has made it his mission to share his story in an effort to help others who may be struggling, and to break down the barriers associated with mental health in agriculture.

“There was a time when I felt I couldn’t talk about my feelings,” explains Pillitteri who still resides in Niagara-on-the-Lake where he owns and manages Lakeview Vineyard Equipment Company, along with seven acres of Merlot grapes. “Today, I’ve become much more outspoken. I’m happy to share my story with anyone who will listen because it’s healthier to talk about our mental health, and I’m here to help others.”

44

Farming is Stressful Pillitteri believes there’s no other industry in the world that depends on so many factors out of a person’s control than farming. Add to that the unique emotional attachments that come with working the land and alongside family, and farming quickly becomes one of most all-consuming and stressful lifestyles.

In fact, a 2021 survey of Canadian farmers conducted by the University of Guelph found that stress, anxiety, depression, emotional exhaustion and cynicism (two components of burnout), suicide ideation and lowered resilience were all higher among farmers than the national average. And at the time of the study, 76 per cent of farmers said they were currently experiencing moderate or high perceived stress.

“It’s easy to put ourselves on cruise control,” points out Pillitteri. “We need to learn to recognize obstacles and deal with them accordingly without internalizing them.”

Pillitteri speaks from experience. In 2008 he faced his own mental health crisis and realized that the traditional way of ‘coping’ with stress and emotions in agriculture wasn’t appropriate. He explains that even in the height of his struggles he still couldn’t ask for help because he was embarrassed and ashamed.

But once he made it through, seeking the necessary help, validating his feelings and being open with his family, he vowed that he would speak up about his experiences in an effort to help others, especially others in the agriculture industry.

It’s Okay to Ask for Help “For all of us to achieve our greatest potential we have to deal with our own mental health,” believes Pillitteri.

Looking back, he says that when he was at his lowest point, he just wanted to skip past the hard parts to get healthy. But he’s glad he didn’t, because it was the personal learning, experiences and process that he went through that has led him to become who he is today.

“Experiencing my own growth has made be a better person,” explains Pillitteri. “Everyone has their own journey and it’s okay to be where you are.”

2026 ONTARIO FRUIT AND VEGETABLE CONVENTION

Save the Dates

FEBRUARY 18–19, 2026

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR OFVC 2026!

Niagara Falls Convention Centre, Niagara Falls, Ontario

FOLLOW US TO STAY UP-TO-DATE @ofvc1 www.ofvc.ca

If there’s one message he hopes others can learn from his story, Pillitteri hopes people will realize it is okay to ask for help, especially those involved in the farming industry.

“I’m thrilled we live in a time when broaching a topic like mental health at an industry event like the OFVC is normal. I hope people can relate to my story and not feel ashamed about their own feelings,” says Pillitteri.

“We’re all better people when we’re open and honest about our struggles and are willing to seek help and take actions to improve ourselves.”

Joe Pillitteri is the featured speaker at the New Rise 'N Shine Breakfast event on Thursday, February 20 at 7:45 am in The Lounge.

45

RMERS

MA RKET O

2024

’

F

FA

FA R M E R S ’ M A R K E T S O N TA R I O ® A W A R D O F EXCELLENCE

Y THE E AR

Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market receives Market of the Year Award

BY JEANINE MOYER

The Downtown Windsor Farmers' Market is one of few farmers’ markets that are hosted in the heart of an urban environment. Every Saturday from March to October, Pelissier Street in Windsor, Ontario is closed down to accommodate more than 70 vendors who bring their local products from Windsor and surrounding Essex County.

contributes to the quality of life for visitors and local residents by providing a convenient source of fresh produce.

“We’re beyond thrilled to receive this recognition,” says Debi Croucher, executive director of the Downton Windsor Business Improvement Association (BIA). “The Downtown Windsor Farmers' Market has been operating for 16 years and attracts between 1,500 to 2,000 attendees each week, and nearly 2,500 during the summer months.”

The market features a kid’s corner, art exhibits and craft vendors, community booths, entertainment, food demonstrations, and other special events that attract the community to the familyfriendly environment. In an effort to draw new visitors, market organizers (the local BIA) have introduced agricultural education events and demonstrations, including bringing farm animals to the heart of the city. The ‘dog days of summer’ welcomes pets and their owners to a mini dog festival and a highlight each year is now the harvest festival that celebrates local bounty and the wrap up of the market season.

Croucher explains that each special event draws a new audience to the market, providing opportunities for vendors and the surrounding downtown area.

Croucher says the market’s unique location supports vendors, visitors and neighbouring businesses, providing a huge economic driver for the downtown area. She also points out that the market

One of the most innovative programs the Downtown Windsor Farmers' Market has introduced is the Good Greens Food

This year, the Downtown Windsor Farmers' Market is the recipient of the Farmers’ Markets Ontario® Market of the Year award. The growth of the market, combined with its focus on adding programs and events to draw new visitors, support for vendors and the surrounding community is what makes the market stand out.

46

Reclamation Program. Through this unique food repacking and distribution program the BIA purchases unsold food from market vendors for distribution to low income and vulnerable members of the community. “The farmers’ market partners with seven local organizations and agencies who help us distribute the food and maximize the impact of our contributions,” says Croucher, explaining that the goal of the program is to improve food systems, increase access to local foods for everyone and minimize food waste. The Good Greens Program runs for 31 weeks, the duration of the farmers’ market season.

“The Good Greens Program is a winwin for everyone,” says Croucher.

“We’re able to support our vendors by purchasing produce and baked goods that can’t be resold due to a short shelf life and repurpose them to support our community.” Since its inception in October 2023, the program has distributed more than 12,000 pounds of fresh produce, 3,300 millilitres of preserves, 15,000 baked goods and has served 16,336 meals.

The Good Greens Program relies on local support, including donations and volunteers, and Croucher says it’s been a very straightforward program to roll out and manage. “This is such a feel-good initiative, I would love to see it replicated in other communities,” she says.

“The Downtown Windsor Farmers' Market has been operating for 16 years and attracts between 1,500 to 2,000 attendees each week, and nearly 2,500 during the summer months.”

Farmers’ markets are an important component of communities across Ontario. They serve as a source of fresh products, a direct connection to food and farming, a source of entertainment and a localized economic driver.

“Shopping local is critical, and what better way to get to know your farmers and learn where your food comes from than at a farmers’ market?” says Croucher.

The Farmers’ Market of the Year award will be presented on Wednesday, February 19 at 9:30 am in Ballroom A.

Trusted Canadian wholesaler of outdoor fruit and vegetable crop protection products, working with the established distribution and retail channel and their grower customers to service all key markets.

855 888-4655

CohortWholesale.com

47

The Growing Business of Farm Fresh Flowers

BY JEANINE MOYER

According to Janis Harris the opportunities to extend product lines at farmers’ markets and roadside stands with locally-grown flowers are literally blooming.

Janis and her husband Mark own Harris Flower Farm, the largest fresh cut flower farm in the St. Thomas, Ont., area.

Together, they grow nearly 60 different types of flowers, including bulbs, annuals, perennials and flowering branches. Now in their 17th year of operation, providing fresh, seasonal cut flowers for farmers' markets, weddings and local events, the couple continues to explore new opportunities to serve a growing market of customers eager to enjoy seasonal blooms.

“Agriculture isn’t just food,” points out Harris. “Flowers are often an afterthought at farmers’ markets, but they can be a real draw and part of the experience of enjoying local.”

In the beginning, Harris started small, planting 3,000 gladioli bulbs. Over time, her flower garden expanded to become what it is today, a nearly eight-acre field, along with a series of heated and unheated greenhouses. Her flower season spans from late February through to December.

“We start our season with tulips and wrap it up with fresh winter greens,” explains Harris, who says she plants an average of 25,000 tulip bulbs each year. She also grows 2,000 peonies, two acres of dahlias

48 48

and more sunflowers than she can count, among many other varieties of flowers. Last year she added roses, noting they are in demand for wedding floral designs.

All of the flowers grown on the Harris Flower Farm are sold at their on-farm flower cart, roadside markets and local farmers’ markets. She’s also found a growing business providing cut flowers, arrangements and bouquets for weddings and an in-season flower subscription, offering one bouquet each month from May to September.

Harris believes there’s a lot of opportunities for farm fresh flowers and says, “flowers can easily be added to a farm market stand, onfarm shop or any place local farm produce is sold as an extension of a product line.” But she points out that growing or selling fresh flowers should be treated like any other product. “Flowers need to be picked fresh, so customers have a good experience, and they need to be valued and priced appropriately too.”

As a member of the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers, a global organization, Harris has been able to connect with fellow flower growers at conferences and gather new marketing ideas and information to expand her business. “There’s plenty of room in the industry for professionals who want to grow farm fresh flowers,” says Harris. In fact, she’s become a mentor for many flower growers here in Ontario and is passionate about spreading the word about the prospects local blooms can bring to businesses.

“There’s nothing better than having a direct connection with customers and sharing the joy of farm fresh flowers,” says Harris.

Catch Janis Harris’ presentation entitled From Vegetables to Flowers: Farming and Selling Field Grown Flowers in Ontario on Thursday, February 20 at 2:00 pm in Room 205.

49

MERIT • A

IT D OF MER

F

D

V G& A

M

OF

NP

I T • AW A R

AR

WA R D O F

ER

NPF & VGA Award of Merit

• A

W

BY JEANINE MOYER

Jayasankar Subramanian, the 2024 Niagara Peninsula Fruit & Vegetable Growers' Association (NPF & VGA) Award of Merit recipient, is described as a passionate person who is admired by the tree fruit industry.

A professor of tree fruit breeding and biotechnology at the University of Guelph-Vineland Campus, Subramanian is based at the Vineland centre and has been breeding tree fruit varieties for nearly 25 years. He’s also the only peach breeder in Canada.

“Prof. Subramanian has been incredibly instrumental in providing Canadian growers with varieties that work in our climates and help extend our seasons,” says Douglas Darling, NPF & VGA vice president. “Over the years he has provided the industry with great research in many areas, most notably in black knot and of course, stone fruit breeding.”

Subramanian is best known for developing three new Ontario peach varieties that have transformed the industry – Vee Blush, Early Blush and Rising Sun. His fresh market peach breeding work began in earnest in 2008 when a local peach canning factory closed, forcing the provincial tender fruit industry to evaluate the future direction of peach production. At the time, Subramanian was tasked with developing new early-season peach varieties that could be grown in the Niagara region to capture the local market. He was fortunate to have a

50

stock of genetic material he inherited from a former colleague, and it didn’t take long before Subramanian created exactly what the industry was looking for.

“It can take between 15-20 years to release a new tree fruit variety,” explains Subramanian. “The process requires a lot of patience and luck along the way.”

Vee Blush was the first variety released in 2015. It quickly became popular with growers and represents nearly 40 per cent of early peaches grown in the Niagara region today.

The most recent varieties, Early Blush (released in 2020) and Rising Sun (released in 2022) were also adopted by growers right away and are becoming very popular.

“This is the most robust breeding program. By involving industry and grower representatives we can be confident our varieties will do well in the market,” says Subramanian.

Working closely and collaboratively with growers and representatives of the tender fruit industry, Subramanian has put Niagara peaches on the map. And there’s more to come. Subramanian is excited about a new type of peach variety he’s developing, affectionately calling it the ‘neat peach’. A firm-flesh peach with enhanced freshness, flavour and extended storage and shelf life, neat peaches are expected to hit the market within the next 10 years. Once again, Subramanian worked with the entire value chain to identify that younger consumers want a juicy, flavourful peach that isn’t as messy to eat, while growers want a peach that will hang on the tree longer when fully ripe and distributors need peaches with an extended shelf life.

Grower uptake is important, but it’s “My goal is to help the Ontario tender consumers that drive the fresh fruit fruit industry leave a mark on the market. Subramanian explains that world,” says Subramanian. “The sky “consumers have to like the peaches is the limit when it comes to peach for producers to grow them.” That’s breeding, maybe someday I can even one of the reasons why his research send an Ontario peach to space!” and variety development program consults with the tender fruit industry NPF & VGA's Award of Merit is presented each year to an and growers every step of the way. individual or individuals who have This makes Subramanian’s peach demonstrated commitment and breeding program the only one in dedication to the agricultural the industry that involves growers at every step, including in-field testing industry. The Award of Merit was first and consumer consultation. introduced in 1957.

International Agricultural Worker Wellness Program

WWW.IAWWP.CA

Agriculture Wellness Ontario, in collaboration with Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Windsor-Essex and CMHA Brant Haldimand Norfolk, delivers the International Agricultural Worker Wellness Program, an innovative pilot project that supports the mental and physical health of international agricultural workers.

Our branch partners

The IAWWP focuses on helping workers manage stress, homesickness and isolation through an integrative strategy that combines in-person workshops, online emotional support and referrals to community resources. Additionally, it engages farm owners and managers, fostering collaboration that benefits both workers and employers, enhancing our agri-food industry.

Support

Education The program focuses on the specific challenges faced by international agricultural workers and their employers.

It offers workshops for workers in multiple languages or with interpretation, ensuring the content is relevant and culturally informed. For owners and managers, the sessions highlight how to create a psychologically-safe workplace to support workers’ well-being.

Community services information Find essential resources such as: Emergency contacts for medical, legal or safety assistance English classes, interpretation services and recreational programs

Workshop benefits:

Access professional health support anytime, 24/7/365, to address:

Build trust and improve employee retention Reduce accidents and safety costs Strengthen workplace relationships Enhance overall well-being and reduce stress for everyone on the farm

The Farmer Wellness Initiative is available in Spanish, English and French!

Loneliness Anxiety Depression

Substance use Workplace conflicts Financial pressures

1-866-267-6255