OFVC Show Guide 2025

ONTARIO APPLE GROWERS, HCO

VICE PRESIDENT

Douglas Darling NPF & VGA

GENERAL MANAGER

BERRY GROWERS OF ONTARIO, HCO ONTARIO APPLE GROWERS, HCO

Catherine Clark FARMERS’ MARKETS ONTARIO, HCO

Douglas Darling NPF&VGA

Barbara Hipple-Roller NPF&VGA

Matt Peters N.M. BARTLETT INC., HCO

Tom Tancock NPF&VGA

Kevin Vallier AGRITOURISM ONTARIO, HCO

Torrie Warner NPF&VGA

Jennifer Whalen OMAFA CHAIR/FACILITIES

Kevin Schooley N.M. BARTLETT INC., HCO TRADE SHOW

Ross Parker NPF & VGA

Craig Parker

Tom Tancock NPF & VGA

SPEAKER PROGRAM

Cara McCreary OMAFA

Denise Beaton OMAFA

SPEAKER CO-ORDINATOR

Beverly Cantelon

ACCOMMODATIONS

Catherine Clark FARMERS’ MARKETS ONTARIO, HCO

POSTER SESSIONS

Cara McCreary OMAFA

Denise Beaton OMAFA

MARKETING/WEBSITE

Steve Watt BRIGHT LIGHT COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE MEMBERS AT LARGE

Douglas Darling NPF & VGA

Barbara Hipple-Roller NPF & VGA

Ken Slingerland NPF & VGA

Torrie Warner NPF & VGA

SESSION CHAIRS

Nicole Berardi OMAFA

Elmer Buchanan FMO

Victoria Buma BGO

CONVENTION PARTNERS

Kathryn Carter OMAFA

Deanna Chakarova ST.

CATHARINES FM

Tejendra Chapagain OMAFA

Travis Cranmer OMAFA

Chevonne Dayboll OMAFA

Kelly Daynard FFC

Erika DeBrouwer OMAFA

Evan Elford OMAFA

Amy Fang Shi OGGA

Melanie Filotas OMAFA

Jennifer Kelly BROCK UNIVERSITY

Cary Gates FCG

Kristy Grigg-McGuffin OMAFA

Mary Haurilak OPMA

Kelley Knight OMAFA

Stefan Larrass OFVGA

Cora Loucks OMAFA

Sarah Marshall OTFG

Wendy McFadden-Smith OMAFA

John Molenhuis OMAFA

Kevin Montgomery OMAFA

Jeff O’Donnell OMAFA

Erica Pate OMAFA

Elaine Roddy OMAFA

Amanda Tracey OMAFA

Dan Tukendorf OFVGA

Kevin Vallier AO

Dennis Van Dyk OMAFA

Sean Westerveld OMAFA

KELLY CICERAN PRESIDENT, ONTARIO FRUIT AND VEGETABLE CONVENTION

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 LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

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

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.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

CONVENTION PARTNERS

FRIENDS OF THE CONVENTION

VINELAND GROWERS -

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.

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 K nights 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 R BC

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 S tokes Seeds Ltd.

209 S trawberry Tyme Farms Inc.

523 S tructural Panels Inc.

612 S yngenta

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

NIAGARA FALLS CONVENTION CENTRE — FIRST LEVEL

NIAGARA FALLS CONVENTION CENTRE — SECOND LEVEL

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

Chairs: Jennifer Kelly, Brock University & Kevin Montgomery, OMAFA 9:30 Use of Non-Traditional Yeast to Mitigate the Effects of Botrytis and Sour Rot Debbie Inglis, Brock University 10:00 There’s No Surefire Way –Challenges Faced as a Niagara Winemaker Marc Bradshaw, Arterra Wines 10:30 Issues at the Crossroads of Cider and Wine Eleanor Leger, Eden Specialty Ciders, USA 11:00 The Cider Project: Broadening Opportunities for New York’s Growers and Cider Makers Megan Larmer, Kate Anstreicher, The Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming, USA (Live stream)

Chair: Wendy McFadden-Smith, OMAFA 9:30 Reduced Sensitivity to DMI Fungicides in the Brown Rot Pathogen and Management Approaches Katie Goldenhar, BC Ministry of Agriculture Food; Guido Schnabel, Clemson University, USA 10:00 Advances in Pest Management of Scale Insects in Tree Fruit Brett Blaauw, University of Georgia, USA 10:30 Insights on Biology and Epidemiology of Peach Leaf Curl Irene Salotti, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy 11:00 Peach Leaf Curl 2024: What Worked, What Didn’t and Possible Future Options for Management Wendy McFaddenSmith, OMAFA SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Stefan Larrass, OFVGA 9:30 Effective Health and Safety Representatives Jay Remsik, Workplace Safety and Prevention Services 10:00 Onboarding Employees (TFWs & Domestic Labour) Shawn McGowan, Agri-Business HR Solutions 10:30 WSIB’s Foreign Agricultural Worker Strategy and What it Means for TFW Employers Kendra Holliday-Bryant, WSIB 11:00 SAWP Source Country Update: Panel –Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Asha Jagassar- Jaggernauth, Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago; Shirley Wall-Mayers, Ken Mason, Consulate General of Barbados; Olaf Fontenelle, Sandra Bobb, Eastern Carribean Liaison Services SPONSORED BY:

Chairs: Evan Elford & Melanie Filotas, OMAFA 9:30 Update on Spider Mite Biocontrol and Flea Beetle Distribution in Ontario Hops Justin Renkema, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada 10:00 Importance of Coverage/ Improving Coverage in Tall Crops David Manktelow, Applied Research & Technologies Ltd., New Zealand 10:30 Impact of Drying Temperature on Aroma Hop Quality Lindsey Rubottom, University of Oregon, USA 11:00 Impact of Temperature and Other On-Farm Parameters on Hop Quality Lindsey Rubottom, University of Oregon, USA

Chairs: Nicole Berardi & Cora Loucks, OMAFA 9:30 Crop Hub and CropIPM Update: Demo of New Features Joe Miller, Zengenti; Nicole Berardi, OMAFA 10:00 –11:30 Question & Answer Feedback Session Joe Miller, Zengenti; Nicole Berardi, OMAFA; Cora Loucks, OMAFA

Chair: Travis Cranmer, OMAFA 9:30 Major Brassica Pests and Diseases in 2024 Travis Cranmer, OMAFA 10:15 Managing Alternaria Leaf Spot and Head Rot in Broccoli with Fungicides in New York Christy Hoepting, Cornell University, USA 11:00 Investigating Fungicides for Alternaria Management in Ontario Brassica Vegetables Katie Goldenhar, BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food SPONSORED BY:

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2025

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

Chair: Kevin Vallier, Agritourism Ontario 9:30 Pursuit of Excellence: Growing for Gold –Self Awareness, Leadership and Teamwork Cheryl Pounder, 2x Olympic Gold Medalist/World Champion/NHL Broadcaster 10:30 Loving and Living Your Brand Andrea Kaiser, Kaiser Design and Marketing

Chair: Kelly Daynard, Farm & Food Care 9:30 Speaking Up About Food and Farming Workshop #1 Kelly Daynard, Farm & Food Care 10:30 –11:30 Speaking Up About Food and Farming Workshop #2 Kelly Daynard, Farm & Food Care

Chairs: Erica Pate, OMAFA; Victoria Buma, Berry Growers of Ontario 9:30 Taylor Farms Muskoka Grower Profile Sarah and Aaron Shaw, Taylor Farms Muskoka 10:00 Optically Targeted Herbicide Application in Highbush Blueberry Thierry E. Besançon, Rutgers University, USA 10:30 Soilborne Disease Management Marvin P. Pritts, Cornell University, USA 11:00 Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission 101 Amy Cronin, Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Elmer Buchanan, FMO 9:30 2024 Market of the Year Award Debi Croucher, Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market 10:00 Reducing Waste at Farmers’ Markets Gabriella Dee, Memorial Centre Farmers’ Market 10:30 Farm Fresh at Your Market –OFAFMO Partnership Paul Maurice, Ontario Federation of Agriculture 11:00 Funding Your Market –An Unconventional Guide Jaime Grant, Innisfil & Barrie Farmers’ Markets

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2025

Chair: Wendy McFadden-Smith, OMAFA 2:00 Recent Advancements of Domestic Clean Plant Program for Grapevines in Canada Sud Poojari, Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute–Brock University 2:30 Results of a Chemical Control Trial for Spotted Lanternfly Doug Pfeiffer, Virginia Tech, USA; Josh Mosiondz, OMAFA 3:00 Best Use of Biological Solutions in Crop Protection and Plant Health for Vineyards Pam Marrone, Invasive Species Corporation 3:30 The Ugly Truth About Black Rot Control: Back to Basics Bryan Hed, Penn State University, USA SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Sarah Marshall, Ontario Tender Fruit Growers 2:00 Optically Targeted Herbicide Application in Tender Fruit Thierry E. Besançon, Rutgers University, USA 2:30 Fruit Production for the Future: Washington State Smart Orchard Lav Khot, Washington State University, USA (Live stream) 3:00 Panel on Optimizing Water Use in Orchards Myroslava Khomik, University of Waterloo; Brett Ruck, Town of NOTL 3:30 Tomorrow’s Forecast: Warmer, Wetter, and Wilder –Are you Ready? David Phillips, Environment Canada SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Sean Westerveld, OMAFA 2:00 Hosting a Lavender Festival Off Site Beth Hammerberg, Down by the River Lavender, USA 2:30 Panel on Festivals and Events Arthur Lin, Lavender Polo Farm; Julie Thurgood-Burnett, Hereward Farm; Beth Hammerberg, Down by the River Lavender, USA; Christine Arezzi, Bluewater Lavender 3:30 Ontario Lavender Association AGM

Chair: Melanie Filotas, OMAFA 2:00 Pricing and Promotion for Profit Melissa Schooley, Apple Hill Lavender 2:30 Selling Local – Consumer Perceptions of Local Products and How to Increase Sales Alicia Rihn, University of Tennessee, USA 3:00 Marketing Local Hazelnuts – A Case Study from the Midwestern USA Emma Dempsey, American Hazelnut Company, USA 3:30 Grower Panel – Marketing Hazelnuts in Ontario: Present and Future Amanda Pilot, The Nutty Neighbours; Rebecca Compton, Dalton White Farms; Elisabeth Burrow, Jewels Under the Kilt

Chair: John Molenhuis, OMAFA 2:00 Knowing Your Machinery Costs John Molenhuis, OMAFA 2:30 Accounting for Tracking/ Managing Machinery Costs Greg Simpson, MNP 3:00 Getting the Most Out of Farm Mechanization Joe Pillitteri, Lakeview Vineyard Equipment Inc.

3:30 Financing Machinery Dos and Don’ts Bill Stockwell, Farm Credit Canada SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Elaine Roddy, OMAFA 2:00 Tar Spot: An Emerging Disease of Sweet Corn Julie Kikkert, Cornell University, USA 2:30 Fungicide Programs that Work Against Powdery Mildew in Pumpkin Jim Jasinski, The Ohio State University, USA 3:00 Laser Scarecrows to Deter Birds in Sweet Corn Julie Kikkert, Cornell University, USA 3:30 Review of Pumpkin and Squash Hybrids from 2020–2023 Jim Jasinski, The Ohio State University, USA SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Kevin Vallier, Agritourism Ontario 2:00 Sensory Merchandising: Connecting with Customers One Sense at a Time Joe Baer and Meg Lefeld, ZenGenius, Inc., USA 3:00 AI 101 –How to Leverage AI for Your Business in Agritourism Craig Haney, AltaML

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

Chairs: Erika DeBrouwer & Kristy Grigg-McGuffin, OMAFA 2:00 Effective Spraying: What Can Go Wrong and How to Get It Right David Manktelow, Applied Research & Technologies Ltd., New Zealand 2:30 FUNdamentals of Fungicides Katie Goldenhar, BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food 3:00 The Use of Plant Growth Regulators in Apples –Why, When and How to Use Them Poliana Francescatto, Valent BioSciences, USA (Live stream) 3:30 Improving Spraying Practices and Spray Application Strategies –An NZ Journey David Manktelow, Applied Research & Technologies Ltd., New Zealand; Katie Goldenhar, BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food; Poliana Francescatto, Valent BioSciences (Live stream) SPONSORED BY:

Chairs: Erica Pate, OMAFA & Victoria Buma, Berry Growers of Ontario 2:00 Best Use of Biological Solutions in Crop Protection and Plant Health for Berries Pam Marrone, Invasive Species Corporation 2:30 Anthracnose Resistance Issues and Neopest Management in Strawberry Guido Schnabel, Clemson University, USA 3:00 Getting More Ontario Berries into the Shopping Cart Peter Chapman, SKUFood 3:30 Field Release of the Asian Parasitoid, Ganaspis kimorum, for Biological Control Tara Gariepy, Agriculture and AgriFood Canada SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Elmer Buchanan, FMO 2:00 What Can FMO Do for You –Workshop Helen Scutt, Scutt & Associates; Facilitators: Melanie Anderson, Ottawa Farmers’ Market, Jenny Groenheide, Thunder Bay Farmers’ Market 3:30 FMO Annual General Meeting Lisa Cooper, FMO Treasurer

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2025

Chair: Wendy McFadden-Smith, OMAFA 9:30 Lessons Learned: Under Vine Cover Crops in Ontario Stephanie Vickers, OMAFA; Kathryn Carter, OMAFA; Josh Aitken, Cave Spring Vineyard 10:00 Wine Weather Forecast for Ontario: Warmer, Wetter, and Wilder David Phillips, Environment Canada 10:30 ABA and ABA Analogs and Cold Hardiness in Grapes Jim Willwerth, Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute–Brock University 11:00 A Journey Across Botrytis Bunch Rot Control: From Modeling to Biocontrol Agents Irene Salotti, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Mary Haurilak, Ontario Produce Marketing Assn. 9:30 Perpetually Pessimistic? An Update on the Canadian Produce Shopper Brian Ettkin, Numerator 10:00 Navigating a Successful Rebrand in the Produce Sector Panel Kelsey Coon, Highline Mushrooms; Alex Chesney, BGO; Leah Hardy, Wonderful Sales SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Sean Westerveld, OMAFA 9:30 Choosing Sales Channels and Bringing Products to Market Beth Hammerberg, Down by the River Lavender, USA 10:00 Lavender Product Marketing Experiences Arthur Lin, Lavender Polo Farm; Julie Thurgood-Burnett, Hereward Farm 10:30 Using Branding and Marketing Communications to Generate Value Alicia Rihn, University of Tennessee, USA 11:00 Getting More Lavender Products into the Shopping Cart Peter Chapman, SKU Food, Nova Scotia 11:30 General Q&A SPONSORED BY:

Chairs: Elaine Roddy & Evan Elford, OMAFA 9:30 Advances in Rhubarb Field Management Libby Indermaur, Cornell University, USA 10:00 Adding Value to Rhubarb: Craft Beverages and Culinary Uses Libby Indermaur, Cornell University, USA 10:30 Asparagus: What You Need to Know Before You Grow Elaine Roddy, OMAFA 11:00 Asparagus: In-Crop Management Ben Werling, Michigan State University, USA

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

Chairs: Kelley Knight & Chevonne Dayboll, OMAFA 9:30 Assessing and Improving Agricultural Robots for Vegetable Production Geoff Farintosh, University of Guelph 10:00 Vivid Machines in Practice: A Grower’s Experience Jenny Lemieux, Vivid Machines; Gerbe Botden, Blue Mountain Fruit 10:30 Clean Works in Practice: A Grower’s Experience Paul Moyer, Clean Works; Brian Schmidt, Vineland Estates 11:00 Intelliculture in Practice: A Grower’s Experience Cole Powers, Intelliculture; Dave Petheram, Schuyler Farms

Chair: Dennis VanDyk, OMAFA 9:30 PEI Research Results on Brassica Insect Pests Joanne Driscoll, PEI Horticultural Association 10:00 Leaving out Lorsban and Controlling Cabbage Maggot Ben Werling, Michigan State University, USA 10:30 Integrated Pest Management of Delia Radicum Root Maggots Ian Scott, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada 11:00 Managing Cabbage Maggot with Insecticides in Transplanted Cabbage in New York Christy Hoepting, Cornell University, USA

Chair: Kevin Vallier, Agritourism Ontario 9:30 21 Secrets to a Successful Farm Mike Holtzman, Holtzman Group, USA 10:30 Maximizing Ad Spend and Online Ticketing Review with Shadi & Hugh Hugh McPherson, Maize Quest, USA; Shadi Hayek, TicketSpice, USA

Chairs: Erika DeBrouwer & Kristy Grigg-McGuffin, OMAFA 9:30 Apple Market Trends & Outlook Panel Graeme Smith, Loblaws Intl.; Kirk Kemp, Algoma Orchards; Erika DeBrouwer, OMAFA; Rachael LeBlanc, Vineland Research & Innovation Centre 10:30 Crop Protection Regulatory Updates for 2025 Chris Duyvelshoff, OFVGA 11:00 Best Storage Practices for Ambrosia, Gala, and Honeycrisp Apples Jennifer DeEll, OMAFA SPONSORED BY:

Chairs: Erica Pate, OMAFA & Victoria Buma, BGO 9:30 Wilmot Blueberries Grower Profile Courtney Stevens, Wilmot Blueberries 10:00 Berry Variety Trials and Breeding Updates from AAFC Beatrice Amyotte, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada 10:30 Employment Standards for Employers Valerie Henschel, Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Trade, and Skills Development 11:00 Understanding Carrier Volume to Optimize Coverage David Manktelow, Applied Research & Technologies Ltd., New Zealand SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Deanna Chakarova, St. Catharines Farmers’ Market 9:30 McGill University Farmers’ Market Study Final Report Robert David, McGill University (Live Stream) 10:30 An Introduction to Mental Health in Agriculture Amelia Cassimatis, Priyanka Gupta, Agriculture Wellness Ontario 11:30 Foodland Ontario: The Power of Promoting Local Gigi Coronil & Jeff O’Donnell, Foodland Ontario

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

Chair: Kathryn Carter, OMAFA 2:00 Grape Vine Rootstocks for Ontario Jim Willwerth, Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute–Brock University 2:30 Vineyard Nutrition Monitoring Advances with HiRes Vineyard Nutrition Project Patricia Skinkis, Oregon State University, USA (Live stream) 3:00 Potassium Application Impact on Fruit Quality and Cold Hardiness of Chambourcin Gurkirat Singh, Penn State, USA (Live stream) 3:30 New Technologies in Grape Production Panel John Felice, Pellenc USA; Jenny Lemieux, Vivid Machines; other panelist TBA SPONSORED BY:

Chairs: Jeff O’Donnell, OMAFA & Dan Tukendorf, OFVGA 2:15 Local Food Procurement in Schools Jillian McCallum, VON –Ontario Student Nutrition Program, Southwest Region 2:40 Local Food Procurement in Colleges and Universities Kristian Crossen and Craig Clifford, Western University 3:05 Local Food Procurement in Long-Term Care Travis Durham, Grove Park Home 3:30 Local Food Procurement in Hospitals Wendy Smith, Mohawk Medbuy

Chair: Cary Gates, Flowers Canada Growers 2:00 From Vegetables to Flowers: Farming and Selling Field Grown Flowers in Ontario Janis Harris, Harris Flower Farm 2:40 Overview of the Specialty Cut Flower Sector in Canada Theresa Schumilas, Open Food Network

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

Chair: Stefan Larrass, OFVG 2:00 SAWP Source Country Update Mexican consulate 2:30 Navigating Processes in the TFW Program: Best Practices and Tips for Employers Shawn McGowan, Agri-Business HR Solutions 3:00 SAWP Source Country Update Althea Riley, The Jamaican Liaison Service 3:30 SAWP & LICC Update Ken Forth, F.A.R.M.S.

Chair: Tejendra Chapagain, OMAFA 2:00 Yield and Quality: Finding the Right Fertilizer Rates for Onions and Carrots Mary Ruth McDonald, University of Guelph 2:30 Options to Improve Nutrient Use Efficiency: Decision Support Tools and Techniques Tejendra Chapagain, OMAFA 3:00 Soil Health Assessment and Plan (SHAP): Identification and Management of Soil Health Challenges Inderjot Chahal, University of Guelph 3:15 Fertigation Systems: Applications and Opportunities Friedhelm Hoffmann, Lakeside Grain and Feed Ltd. 3:30 Black Magic and Micronutrients: A Grower’s Experience Brian Rideout, Manitree Fruit Farms SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Amanda Tracey, OMAFA 2:00 Spray Basics for Vegetable Producers Workshop #1 Jason Deveau, OMAFA 3:00 Spray Basics for Vegetable Producers Workshop #2 Jason Deveau, OMAFA SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Kevin Vallier, Agritourism Ontario 2:00 Cultivating Connection & Community: How to Effectively Execute with Social Media Christina CrowleyArklie, Crowley + Arklie Strategy & Co 3:00 Agritourism –A world of New Ideas for Your Farm Lisa Chase, University of Vermont, USA

Chairs: Erika DeBrouwer & Kristy Grigg-McGuffin, OMAFA 2:00 Understanding Adjuvants for Improved Pesticide Application David Manktelow, Applied Research & Technologies Ltd., New Zealand 2:30 Getting More Ontario Apples into the Shopping Cart Peter Chapman, SKU Food, Nova Scotia 3:00 Finding Your Niche or New Market Opportunities Panel Cathy McKay, Nature’s Bounty; Glen Smyth, Appleflats 3:30 Outbreak to Outsmart: Strategies to Manage Apple Scab Kristy Grigg- McGuffin, OMAFA SPONSORED BY:

Chair: Amy Fang Shi, Ontario Ginseng Growers Association 2:00 Every Seed Counts Sarah Foster, 20/20 Seed Labs 2:30 Vegetable Seed Quality, Seed Treatments and Coatings Alan Taylor, Cornell University, USA 3:00 Vegetable Seed Treatments in Ontario: The Commercial Perspective Bridget Visser, Stokes Seeds 3:30 What’s on Your Seed? Seedborne Diseases and Seed Treatments of Vegetable Crops Mary Ruth McDonald, University of Guelph SPONSORED BY:

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

SPEAKER BIOGRAPHIES

JOSH AITKEN

Josh is the vineyard manager at Cave Spring Vineyard, Beamsville, Ontario with a focus on premium and sustainable 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 AAFC 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

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 Ministry 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.

THIERRY BESANÇON

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,

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

BRETT BLAAUW

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 M ountain 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

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 m anagement 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,

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 co mmitment 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 c onsistently 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

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

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.

FOGGING

EMMA DEMPSEY

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 t hrough 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

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.

JOANNE DRISCOLL

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.

TRAVIS DURHAM

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

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

Chris is Crop Protection Advisor at the Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Growers’ Association (OFVGA).

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.

BRIAN ETTKIN

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.

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Surround yourself with a dedicated team that

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 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 o rchard 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.

KATIE GOLDENHAR

CRAIG HANEY

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.

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.

BRYAN HED

Bryan is a Research Support Technologist at the Lake Erie Regional Grape Research and Extension Center, a Pennsylvania State 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.

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 ca reer 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 C ooperative Extension 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

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.

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.

DEBBIE INGLIS

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, d eveloping 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 JAGASSAR-JAGGERNAUTH

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.

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 a s the Director of the Agricultural Weather 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 Agriculture and Small Enterprises.

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 d eveloping 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.

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

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

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.

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.

JOE MILLER

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.

JOHN MOLENHUIS

John has been with the Ontario Ministry 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 Ministry 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 N iagara 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

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

in sect-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,

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

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 Sustainable Crop 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

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 Extension 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 KitchenerWaterloo, 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 f acilitation, 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.

GREG SIMPSON

Greg is a senior manager with MNP’s Farm 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 projections 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

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

PATTY SKINKIS

Dr. Skinkis conducts applied research and provides outreach and education p rograms 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

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.

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.

SHIRLEY WALL-MAYERS

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.

BEN WERLING

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

JIM WILLWERTH

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.

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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

FACES OF

Wednesday, February 19 5:00 – 7:00 pm reception Join us at the farmers & friends

Enjoy featured Ontario wines, hard ciders, craft beer, hors d’oeuvres, and entertainment.

THANKS TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS

OFVC POSTER SESSION 2025

STUDENT 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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

REGULAR SECTION

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.

• 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

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).

Building a Legacy of Excellence

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.

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.

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.”

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

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

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.

“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.

Weather and Climate: The Times They Are A–Changin'

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.”

BY JEANINE MOYER

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

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.

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.”

“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

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.

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.”

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.”

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.

FARMERS’ MARKETS

ONTARIO ® AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

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.

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.

“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.”

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

NPF & VGA Award of Merit

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.”

“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.

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

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.

Grower uptake is important, but it’s consumers that drive the fresh fruit market. Subramanian explains that “consumers have to like the peaches for producers to grow them.” That’s one of the reasons why his research and variety development program consults with the tender fruit industry and growers every step of the way. This makes Subramanian’s peach breeding program the only one in the industry that involves growers at every step, including in-field testing and consumer consultation.

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.

“My goal is to help the Ontario tender fruit industry leave a mark on the world,” says Subramanian. “The sky is the limit when it comes to peach breeding, maybe someday I can even send an Ontario peach to space!”

NPF & VGA's Award of Merit is presented each year to an individual or individuals who have demonstrated commitment and dedication to the agricultural industry. The Award of Merit was first introduced in 1957.

International Agricultural Worker Wellness Program

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.

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.

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.

Workshop benefits:

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

Support

Community services information  Find essential resources such as:

Emergency contacts for medical, legal or safety assistance

English classes, interpretation services and recreational programs

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

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

use

conflicts