Upcoming EFP workshops so far:
Plattsville September 6 & 20
Markdale September 19 & 26
Floradale September 20 & 27
Shelburne October 19 & 26
More EFP workshops will be posted on the website when dates and locations are known. https://www.ontariosoilcrop.org/canada-ontario-environmental-farm-plan/ Biosecurity webinars are also posted on the website. https://www.ontariosoilcrop.org/biosecurity-webinars/ If you are wanting to attend an in-class session – please let me know and I can arrange that.
New Programs Announced: The Agricultural Stewardship Initiative (ASI) and the Honey Bee Health Initiative have been announced for a September 15, 2023 intake, opening at 9 a.m.
Honey Bee Health will be accepting applications until all dollars are allocated.
ASI intake will close the application intake on September 28, 2023, at 5 p.m. Four categories are available to apply in: Nutrient Management and Soil Health Planning, Equipment Modifications to Improve Manure Application, Nutrient Application Equipment Modifications and Equipment Modifications to Reduce Soil Compaction.
A good tip is to read the program guide in its entirety to see if you are eligible and have all the required documentation!! For the ASI program – a 4th edition EFP certificate is required. Check out the website www.ontariosoilcrop.org for programs. Any questions contact your local OSCIA staff.
On Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) has some folks completing and submitting their project claims by October 31, 2023, and some have the deadline January 31, 2024. Applications are no longer accepted. Field staff have been making reminder calls to the producers who had eligible projects. A Knowledge Sharing Event (KSE) credit is a must for each approved project. The categories were Nitrogen Management, Rotational Grazing Systems and Cover Cropping.
Make sure you have signed up to receive emails when programs are announced. https://www.ontariosoilcrop.org/subscribe-to-our-programs-mailing-list/
These are exciting times for OSCIA and Ontario Farmers. Stay up to date and investigate what programs work for you. There are more to come….
Lois Sinclair, Regional Program Lead. lsinclair@ontariosoilcrop.org 519-955-3139