News/Events - April 2015
29
2015
We're Hiring!
Immediate Opening: Local Food Program Assistant
Are you a student who will be returning to school on a full-time basis in the next academic year? Do you have an understanding of, and enthusiasm for, food and agriculture in east central Ontario? Are you looking for work this summer that will compliment your studies in sustainability issues, food and farming, economic development, or food localism?
Then consider applying for this exciting 8 week summer opportunity with Farms at Work, where you will:
- assist in the development and organization of local food and farming events, like the annual Purple Onion Festival;
- develop working relationships with some of our amazing community partners and farmers;
- flex your creativity as you help to prepare engaging content that showcases local farm businesses;
- participate in the planning and coordination of some of FAWs other programs and services, as needed
If you think you might be a good fit for this position, then have a look at the full job description and submit your resume and cover letter to pat@farmsatwork.ca before 5pm on Friday May 8, 2015. Please make sure to include "Local Food Program Assistant" in the subject line.
29
2015
The Great Ontario Clean Farms Challenge
What’s the Great Ontario Clean Farms Challenge?
Farmers are some of the most environmentally conscious people around, and CleanFARMS wants everyone to know it. The Great Ontario Clean Farms Challenge is a program developed to gather and promote examples of environmentally friendly farming practices.
The aim of the Challenge is to create a dialogue among farmers about agricultural waste and profile some of the innovative ways that farmers are reducing, reusing, and recycling ag waste on their farms. Join the Challenge today and help show what a positive difference Ontario farmers are making to the environment!
Who is eligible?
The Challenge is open to all individuals who operate commercial farms in Ontario. Organizers are looking for entries from all sectors including: grain, livestock, dairy, poultry, fruit, vegetables, hay, and seed production. And any organizations who play a supporting role in agriculture are encouraged to nominate a farmer who they think deserves to be recognized.
How do you nominate someone or enter the Challenge?
Farmers are busy people, so the entry process has been made as quick and easy as possible. Just complete this short online entry form. Based on the information provided, the judging panel will develop a shortlist of finalists who will be interviewed to determine their eligibility for the three prizes.
Challenge organizers are looking for smart and creative examples of steps taken to protect the environment and manage waste. It doesn't have to be one big idea; it can be a series of small ideas that have a big impact when they’re all added up.
What are the prizes?
There are three cash prizes are available:
- 1st prize - $5,000
- 2nd prize - $3,000
- 3rd prize - $1,000
What are the key dates and deadlines?
The contest begins on April 22, 2015 and all entries must be received by 5pm EDT on July 30, 2015.
Who is CleanFARMS?
CleanFARMS is a not-for-profit industry stewardship organization committed to environmental responsibility through the proper management of agricultural waste. Their programs manage agricultural plastic and other inorganic waste from farms across Canada, and have earned them a reputation of excellence around the world.
For more information, contact:
Kim Timmer: timmerk@cleanfarms.ca | (416) 622-4460 ext. 2229
15
2015
Farm Financials Webinar Series: Bookkeeping for Farmers
Our partners over at FarmStart are inviting new farmers from across Ontario to join Anne Cooper of Sudbury Learning Initiative for a 3-night workshop series on Bookkeeping for Farm Businesses.
Topics will include the importance of keeping accurate financial records, understanding and implementing a manual double entry bookkeeping system, entry of financial transactions (with class participation) and year-end accounting.
When: Mondays, April 20th, April 27th and May 4th
Time: 6:30-8:00pm
Cost: $25 for all 3 nights
Participate on-line from your home computer!
Whether you are keeping your own books or not, this course will put you in a position to keep good records as well as understand what you need to do (with or without a bookkeeper) to have access to accurate information about your business on a timely basis.
To register for this informative webinar series, visit the FarmStart webstore.
13
2015
Calling All New & Aspiring Beekeepers!
Two Spaces Open Up for Beekeeping Mentorship
A couple of last-minute spots have opened up in the FAW Beekeeping Mentorship Program! Whether you've been keeping bees for a few years, or are just starting out with your first hives, this curriculum-based program will connect you with an experienced mentor and guide you through the hallmarks of the beekeeping season.
From late-April to mid-September, mentees attend five field days at the bee yard and honey house of the mentor to participate in activities, field work, and hands-on projects integral to the beekeeping season. Between field days, mentees will each enjoy up to 4 hours of individual mentor support (by email or telephone), for those times during the season when questions or problems arise.
This year the program will be led by long-time beekeeper, Bryan Shanks of B & L Honey Farm (near Uxbridge, ON). Bryan will expose mentees to time-honoured approaches to hive health and preventative maintenance, honey production and value-added products, the business of beekeeping, as well as valuable resources and important regulations.
If you are looking for an experienced mentor to help you increase your skills and confidence in the bee yard, and to develop meaningful ties to the community of beekeepers in the region, then the FAW Beekeeping Mentorship may be just the program you're looking for!
Applications are available on our website, and if you'd like more info, feel free to contact our office: info@farmsatwork.ca | (705) 743-7671