It’s hard to believe that summer is over ☹ …although the first week in Sept was probably the best haying weather that we’ve had in over a month. Rain, rain, rain seems to have been the weather theme since the end of June. Depending on soil type your crops are loving it or hating it.
Well, it’s been an extremely busy month for me as OSCIA third Vice. Being on the executive has certainly increased the number of meetings, particularly being on the hiring committee for the new Executive Director. We believe though that we will have someone in place for October. Andrew Graham will certainly welcome the new ED, as he has been trying to retire for a year now…. lol. This really shows his dedication to the OSCIA, as he doesn’t want to leave it without good leadership in place. Thank you to Andy Graham.
The Agricultural Stewardship Initiative (ASI) is being launched under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Program (S-CAP). Applications will be accepted starting September 15, 2023, and close September 28 at 5pm. Details can be found at https://programguides.ontariosoilcrop.org/
If you have thoughts for improvements to your farming operation in the categories below, then be sure to apply online.
- Equipment Modifications to Improve Manure Application
- Equipment Modifications to Reduce Soil Compaction
- Nutrient Application Equipment Modifications
- Nutrient Management and Soil Health Planning
More information can be found at https://www.ontariosoilcrop.org/agricultural-stewardship-initiative/. If you need help with anything, you can email s-cap@ontariosoilcrop.org.
Again, my congratulations to the county associations for hosting field tours…. they’re always interesting and a great attraction for new members. Thanks again to Lorie Smith and Emily McKague for their dedication and for hosting the webinar with Dr. Lee Briese.
The OSCIA Summer meeting was held August 17-19, at the home of current Vice President Phil Oegema. Although plagued by a bit of rain, Phil demonstrated the positive aspects of his organic production system. Well done, Phil!
Hopefully, you will have visited our OSCIA tent at the COFS the week of Sept 12-14, and have taken advantage of the free breakfast each day!
Please stay safe to finish off this crop season.
Andy Van Niekerk, P. Ag.