[Pollinator] FW: Organic Alberta: November E-Update
Vicki Wojcik
vw at pollinator.org
Fri Nov 2 11:27:21 PDT 2012
The word is out about this year’s Canadian Farmer-Rancher Pollinator Advocate. Congratulations again to Don and Marie Ruzicka of Killam Alberta.
Victoria Wojcik, Ph.D.
Research Program Manager
Pollinator Partnership
423 Washington Street 5th Floor
San Francisco CA 94111
e: vw at pollinator.org
t: 415-362-1137
f: 415-362-3070
<http://pollinator.org/SHARE.htm>
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Organic Alberta - Keeping you up to date on organics!
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Organic Alberta News
Farming Apprenticeships Available!
ASAAP supports people interested in sustainable agriculture by providing on–farm experience and training through an apprenticeship style program. If you are interested in the program, please contact Becky Lipton at becky.lipton at organicalberta.org or 587-521-2400 for further information.
To learn more about the participating farms, <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=6b4dbf59cd&e=890e4afa85> click here...
Organic Alberta showcases diversity through field day
By reaching out to the Alberta organic consumer, Organic Alberta is showing that it has something for everyone. Hosting consumer field days provides welcome opportunities for learning and sharing and building organic community. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=b9597faf9d&e=890e4afa85>
Regionally appropriate seed security vital for organic farming
Organic Alberta is working with organic producers and organizations that are interested in preserving a farmer’s access to high quality seed to produce high quality food. In this, it is showing leadership in developing and maintaining a strong and healthy food system. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=53d34b5668&e=890e4afa85>
Alberta Organic News
Alberta Farm Recognized for Pollinator Protection
Congratulations to one of our long-standing Organic members for being recognized as a true pollinator advocate! Don and Marie Ruzicka of Sunrise Farm were recognized on behalf of the Pollinator Partnership <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=ea1022e428&e=890e4afa85> (P2), the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA), and the Canadian Honey Council, as the recipient of the 2012 Canadian Farmer-Rancher Pollinator Award. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=73731a5f9c&e=890e4afa85>
See a video profile of Sunrise Farm, put together by Kevin Kossowan, here <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=c10a71246f&e=890e4afa85> .
Ill family member precipitates switch to organic
Arnold and Jeannette Van Os of Wetaskiwin, Alta., moved to Canada from Holland 13 years ago for a better life for their family, including their daughter, Nakaiah. The family has nine children, including two who help maintain the organic Jersey dairy herd. | Mary MacArthur photo <http://www.producer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/MPM092012dairy_on_farm.jpg>
The decision to switch their dairy farm to organic from conventional was easy for Arnold and Jeannette Van Os. An ill family member who explored alternative treatment helped give the couple the push they needed to try something different when Alberta Milk looked for dairy producers interested in organic milk production. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=280960e166&e=890e4afa85>
Where's the Beef? - The Tomato
Check out the latest edition of The Tomato which has a great article (p.12) describing the different ways that ranchers are opting out of the conventional beef system - including organic! You can also find a great interview with Jeff Senger, owner/operator of Sangudo Custom Meats, a certified organic meat processing plant on page 14. Read it now... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=de1d9db774&e=890e4afa85>
General Organic News
Farmers say entire organic industry at risk in GM alfalfa debate (VIDEO)
There’s a new genetically modified crop on the horizon that some say is jeopardizing the entire Canadian organic farming industry. Organic farmers across the country are sounding the alarm bells on the state of alfalfa, one small plant with a massive role in organic farming. Read more and watch the VIDEO... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=dd5d31ff9e&e=890e4afa85>
Also on the topic: Farmers union protests genetically modified alfalfa in eastern Canada. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=7e3b48995a&e=890e4afa85>
American Academy of Pediatrics’ clinical report highlights benefits of organic
A clinical report published online by the AAP highlighting the many attributes of organic foods provides guidance to parents confused by conflicting marketing messages regarding healthy food choices for their children. OTA hails it as a confirmation of the significance of the benefits that organic provides. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=d6c3088774&e=890e4afa85>
OTA has prepared the following talking points <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=99ed44fc0a&e=890e4afa85> for your information.
Recent research shows that genetically engineered crops increase pesticide use
Contrary to often-repeated claims that today's genetically-engineered crops have, and are reducing pesticide use, the spread of glyphosate-resistant weeds in herbicide-resistant weed management systems has brought about substantial increases in the number and volume of herbicides applied. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=1e311a7e33&e=890e4afa85>
Organic Food: Canada Celebrates National Organic Food Week
<http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/organic/certificationf10.jpg> >From Sept. 22 to Sept. 29, Canada celebrated their third annual National Organic Week, bringing attention to organic food and farming from coast to coast. Organized by Canadian Organic Growers and the Canada Organic Trade Association, the week also raises awareness of Canada's changing organic agricultural sector and its impact on the environment. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=a74e84028a&e=890e4afa85>
Also, see the special Globe and Mail Organic Week Insert here... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=d6c718d74d&e=890e4afa85>
The Farm Life Draws Some Students for Post-Graduate Work
It was harvest time, and several farm hands were hunched over a bed of sweet potatoes under the midday sun, elbow deep in soil for $10 an hour. But they were not typical laborers. Mr. Krauss-Malett said he became interested in farming after working in a restaurant and seeing how much food was wasted. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=dbd53350cb&e=890e4afa85>
Blog: Protecting Organic Agriculture: How to Prevent and Manage GMO Contamination Risks
The use of genetically modified organisms (GMO) is forbidden by all organic standards across the world. Nevertheless, GE crops are developing and spreading in many countries. Canada is one of the main GE crops producers, along with US, Brazil, Argentina, China and India. An industry-led task force is proposing to support the following recommendations. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=31dda10d70&e=890e4afa85>
News for Producers & Businesses
Funding available for Biofach - Nuremberg, Germany (Feb 13 - 16, 2013)
Funds are available for organic operators who want to check out one of the globe's largest organic trade shows. Funding is available for both new and experienced exporters. If interested, email becky.lipton at organicalberta.org or call 587-521-2400.
Don’t Miss Opportunity to Expand your Business in EU and Worldwide (Feb 11-12, 2013)
This is your chance to understand the logistics and strategies of European trade. The goal is to assist currently exporting and export-ready U.S companies specializing in food ingredients in developing their export strategy and broadening their business networks in Europe. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=0c977ec2da&e=890e4afa85>
Updates on Organic Trade Agreements - October 2012
Read about updates on Organic Trade Agreements with Japan, Costa Rica, India, EU and Switzerland here... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=576bdefea7&e=890e4afa85>
To Market, To Market…Is your Product Remarkable Enough for Grocery?
Remarkable products are the ones that get talked about by consumers. Buyers know that remarkable yet unknown products have the best chance at being successful in a competitive marketplace. To take the remarkability test, or see more marketing articles click here. <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=e087d9273b&e=890e4afa85>
Export & Funding Opportunities
Canadian organic businesses interested in exporting are reminded that COTA can provide matching funds to support the costs of exhibiting and travel to certain targeted shows and missions. The Natural Products Expos in Baltimore and Anaheim, as well as BioFach in Nuremberg, will be targeted in 2012-13. If you are interested, you should contact Matthew Holmes at mholmes at ota.com.
Hartman Organic and Natural 2012 Consumer Trends webinar now available! The recorded webinar is now posted here <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=d0d14ad9a3&e=890e4afa85> . On this page you can also download a copy of the presentation slides. If you want to learn more about the Organic and Natural 2012 full report, you can download the executive summary and order form here. <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=85083546af&e=890e4afa85>
Selling to Sysco (Nov 27, 2012)
Alberta food processors - join ARD and Sysco Edmonton for an exclusive information session where you will learn about Sysco, its newest “Go Local” program, listing requirements, foodservice supply chain, category management and merchandising. There is no charge to attend and lunch is provided but you must register by Nov. 20th. To register contact Brenda at brenda.mclellan at gov.ab.ca or 800 387 6030. For more information, please contact Nicole at nicole.schroth at gov.ab.ca or 780 643 1003.
Government Helps Foster New Markets for Canada's Organic Sector
The Government is helping Canadian organic farmers and producers deliver the highest-quality organic food to consumers at home and abroad. Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced two investments that will enhance Canada's organic food industry's competitiveness in global and domestic markets. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=5704cc954d&e=890e4afa85>
Flax sector slowly recovers from Day of the Triffids
Canada's flaxseed industry continues to make progress eliminating traces of genetically modified Triffid seed from the country's crop, but there is still work to be done given Europe's very tight allowances for the gene. Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=a01f3f6520&e=890e4afa85>
Standards Interpretation Committee Nominations
The Canada Organic Office, in cooperation with the Organic Federation of Canada, has established a permanent system for interpretation of the Canadian Organic Standards, including the Standards Interpretation Committee (SIC). The terms of three committee members are ending in December 2012. Nominations will be accepted until November 9th 2012. More details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=589274ef8d&e=890e4afa85>
OACC Organic Friends October E-Zine
Catch up on all of the latest research and news here. <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=231d91bdc3&e=890e4afa85>
Resources for Producers
Special Summer 2012 research issue of The Canadian Organic Grower!
The special expanded issue shines a spotlight on some of the key and innovative scientific studies currently underway as part of Canada's Organic Science Cluster. See it here... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=f6f8a28869&e=890e4afa85>
55 Recordings from the International Organic Fruit Research Symposium are now available
eOrganic conducted live broadcasts from the the 2nd International Organic Fruit Research Symposium on June 19 and 21, 2012. Fifty-five recorded presentations from the symposium on a wide range of organic fruit production and research topics are now available for viewing. See them here... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=e93ee98b96&e=890e4afa85>
New Webinars on Organic Dairy Farming, Organic Seed Production Tutorials, and Weed Management Research eOrganic is excited to launch the 2012-13 webinar season with three new webinars on organic farming and research in November. All webinars are free and open to the public and advance registration is required. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=dbc87ed0e5&e=890e4afa85>
Want to find more webinars and past broadcasts from eOrganic? See them all... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=722ba71740&e=890e4afa85>
Canadian Beef School (Nov 27 - 29)
The Canadian Beef School is a unique seminar that provides a chance to take A Look Under the Hide. This three-day, hands-on workshop, being held at Olds College, presents an overview to beef producers, restaurateurs, food editors and food service representatives regarding quality, fabrication and marketing of beef, gate-to-plate. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=7f60df5ed8&e=890e4afa85>
How to Handle Soil Samples
In a recent Call of the Land interview, Ross McKenzie, agronomy research scientist with Alberta Agriculture discussed: what to do with representative soil samples <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=33628f1e30&e=890e4afa85> and what to do with soil test results. <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=f849154b41&e=890e4afa85>
The Organic Grower's Dilemma: How to Manage Weeds Effectively Without Compromising Soil Quality
Organic farmers and gardeners seek to sustain high crop yields and quality by building and maintaining a healthy, living soil rich in nutrients and organic matter. To do so, they return on-farm organic residues to the land and use compost, organic mulches, and cover crops to “feed the soil.” Read more... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=852925b918&e=890e4afa85>
Events & Courses
Online Resources for Beef Marketers (ongoing)
Online. New E-mail Discussion Group for Local Beef Marketers & Value-Added Beef Webinar Series. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=6befe23991&e=890e4afa85>
Customer Development & Innovation Workshop (Nov 5 - 6)
Calgary. Are you a food business startup struggling to achieve market traction or a well-established agri-food company seeking to spark new innovation? Attend this fast paced and intensive workshop to spark the development and commercialization of your healthy food products. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=f33ed6fb17&e=890e4afa85>
Explore Social Media (Nov 6)
Calgary. Your hands-on introduction to social media for business. Learn the fundamentals, practical tips, build a facebook business page, open a twitter account, start a blog... and more. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=b75e290523&e=890e4afa85>
Community Supported Agriculture Webinar (Nov 22)
Online. More and more producers are choosing to start a CSA to sell their local product. John Mills from Eagle Creek Farms has been operating a CSA since 2009, and he will share what it takes to be successful. Register here... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=5b13b57ebf&e=890e4afa85>
Evaluating the Opportunity (Dec 3 - 4)
Leduc. This two-day technical workshop will give participants the tools to evaluate the business opportunity and make informed decisions when putting their local market business ideas into action. It also provides a networking opportunity for like-minded producers. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=83e22ba58d&e=890e4afa85>
Agri Innovation Forum - Dec 5 & 6, 2012
Calgary. The Agri Innovation Forum is the new and much anticipated gathering of corporate development leaders from strategic ag companies, the most active agri-tech investment firms in the US and Canada, and key value chain players from across the agri-innovation space. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=55b9aeabf3&e=890e4afa85>
2013 Guelph Organic Conference and Trade Show (Jan 31 - Feb 3, 2013)
Guelph, ON. This is the largest purely organic conference in Canada. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=fddd3c0321&e=890e4afa85>
Organic Cuba Tour 2013 (Feb 4 - 18, 2013)
Cuba. Ron Berezan has now lead nine travel programs to Cuba providing Canadian farmers, gardeners, permaculture practioners, people involved in food security work, and the “Cuba-curious” an alternative travel experience focusing on face to face encounters with people at the forefront of Cuba’s agro-ecological movement. Details... <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=22e07512e7&e=890e4afa85>
Education
IFOAM offers Organic Leadership Course (Applications - Jan 1, 2013)
The North American Organic Leadership Course from the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) starts in March, and offers up to 25 participants a chance to deepen their knowledge of the organic sector and hone leadership skills that will lead to a more sustainable future. For full details, please click here <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=89f239893a&e=890e4afa85> .
Classifieds
Want to advertise your products? Looking to buy a particular grain? Have you used your free classified <http://organicalberta.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1307bb1d5a80520d17a24edcf&id=a23b1df51b&e=890e4afa85> ad yet? Contact info at organicalberta.org for more information.
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