2020 Conference Sessions
The Islands Agriculture Show features two days of conference sessions. These workshops offer the farming community
opportunities to learn from the experts. The fee for all-day conference sessions is $20/day (pre-registration) or $25/day (drop-in), this includes general trade show admission. There will be no refunds due to weather conditions.
opportunities to learn from the experts. The fee for all-day conference sessions is $20/day (pre-registration) or $25/day (drop-in), this includes general trade show admission. There will be no refunds due to weather conditions.
Pre-Conference Session
The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District is hosting a special event, with funding from the Vancouver Foundation, from 10:30am - 12:30 pm on Thursday, Feb 6. Coffee and snacks starting at 10:15am.
To read more about this session and for bio's on the panelists and presenters, click HERE
The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District is hosting a special event, with funding from the Vancouver Foundation, from 10:30am - 12:30 pm on Thursday, Feb 6. Coffee and snacks starting at 10:15am.
- A panel discussion will bring the Ministry of Agriculture together with representatives from Regional Agricultural Support initiatives from across the Province
- A set of three mini-presentations will be delivered to share academic insights, operational models, and funding potentials for Regional Agricultural Support
- The cost for this session is $5.00
To read more about this session and for bio's on the panelists and presenters, click HERE
Keynote Speaker (Session #5): Gerry Friesen, The Recovering Farmer
Sponsored by: FCC
Gerry Friesen comes from a diverse background of experience, learning and discovery. Never short on humour, Gerry is bound to share stories that everyone can relate to by using personal experiences and his own ups and downs. Listeners can be assured they will find an applicable life lesson through what they hear. Gerry’s presentation, titled “Pigs, Politics and Diet Coke: Stories from a Recovering Farmer”, shares tales of farming, relationships and tips on how to survive difficult times.
Gerry Friesen comes from a diverse background of experience, learning and discovery. Never short on humour, Gerry is bound to share stories that everyone can relate to by using personal experiences and his own ups and downs. Listeners can be assured they will find an applicable life lesson through what they hear. Gerry’s presentation, titled “Pigs, Politics and Diet Coke: Stories from a Recovering Farmer”, shares tales of farming, relationships and tips on how to survive difficult times.
Gerry Friesen
The Recovering Farmer
Gerry was raised on the family farm, which he took over in 1983 and operated until 2007 when other interests demanded more and more of his time. From 1990 to 2005 Gerry was heavily involved in agricultural “politics” serving on the boards of Manitoba Pork Est., Manitoba Pork Marketing, Canadian Pork Council, and Keystone Agricultural Producers.
Gerry’s passion is helping others find solutions for the various issues that life throws at them in the areas of conflict and stress. Aside from his private practice Gerry provides mediation services for Farm Debt Mediation Services and the Automobile Injury Mediation office and is a conflict management specialist with Backswath Management Inc. He specializes in presenting and facilitating workshops on a variety of topics under the umbrella of conflict and stress management.
Gerry is a recipient of the Manitoba Pork Friend of the Industry award for “providing emotional support and expertise to help farmers cope with financial and emotional stress in their darkest days”. A combination of his own life experiences, training in conflict resolution and intensive counseling training provide him the tools to help others who are struggling. To learn more about Gerry visit his web site at www.gerryfriesen.ca.
The Recovering Farmer
Gerry was raised on the family farm, which he took over in 1983 and operated until 2007 when other interests demanded more and more of his time. From 1990 to 2005 Gerry was heavily involved in agricultural “politics” serving on the boards of Manitoba Pork Est., Manitoba Pork Marketing, Canadian Pork Council, and Keystone Agricultural Producers.
Gerry’s passion is helping others find solutions for the various issues that life throws at them in the areas of conflict and stress. Aside from his private practice Gerry provides mediation services for Farm Debt Mediation Services and the Automobile Injury Mediation office and is a conflict management specialist with Backswath Management Inc. He specializes in presenting and facilitating workshops on a variety of topics under the umbrella of conflict and stress management.
Gerry is a recipient of the Manitoba Pork Friend of the Industry award for “providing emotional support and expertise to help farmers cope with financial and emotional stress in their darkest days”. A combination of his own life experiences, training in conflict resolution and intensive counseling training provide him the tools to help others who are struggling. To learn more about Gerry visit his web site at www.gerryfriesen.ca.
Session Speakers & Topics
Session #1: Clearing the Smoke - What you Can and Cannot Do
Speakers:
Speakers:
Jacqueline Oddi, Acting Manager, Licensing and Security Division, Controlled Substance and Cannabis Branch -Health Canada
Jacqueline is a manager for the Licensing and Security Division within Health Canada’s Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch and has over ten years of experience working in cannabis regulation. Prior to her current role, she led the development of the cannabis inspection program under the Cannabis Act for Health Canada. She is now leading the Licensing and Security Division’s process development which aims to integrate a more risk-based approach for decisions for commercial cannabis licences. Jacqueline has an extensive background in federal compliance programs, including cannabis and controlled substances. She has an in depth understanding of the licensing process, Good Production Practices and physical security measures requirements.
Jacqueline is a manager for the Licensing and Security Division within Health Canada’s Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch and has over ten years of experience working in cannabis regulation. Prior to her current role, she led the development of the cannabis inspection program under the Cannabis Act for Health Canada. She is now leading the Licensing and Security Division’s process development which aims to integrate a more risk-based approach for decisions for commercial cannabis licences. Jacqueline has an extensive background in federal compliance programs, including cannabis and controlled substances. She has an in depth understanding of the licensing process, Good Production Practices and physical security measures requirements.
Mary Shaw, Executive Lead - B.C. Cannabis Legalization and Regulation Secretariat
Mary Shaw is the Executive Lead of the B.C. Cannabis Legalization and Regulation Secretariat, within the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. The Secretariat led the development of B.C.’s non-medical cannabis regulatory framework and is the central coordinating body for non-medical cannabis policy across the provincial government.
Mary Shaw is the Executive Lead of the B.C. Cannabis Legalization and Regulation Secretariat, within the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. The Secretariat led the development of B.C.’s non-medical cannabis regulatory framework and is the central coordinating body for non-medical cannabis policy across the provincial government.
Lauren Wright, Planner, Land Use Services - Cowichan Valley Regional District
Lauren holds a Master’s degree in Community and Regional Planning from the University of British Columbia, and a Bachelor’s degree from McMaster University. Lauren joined the CVRD in 2019 and offers 10 years of private and public sector experience in land use planning, disaster management planning, public engagement, and policy development. Originally from Ontario, she now lives with her family in Mill Bay.
Lauren holds a Master’s degree in Community and Regional Planning from the University of British Columbia, and a Bachelor’s degree from McMaster University. Lauren joined the CVRD in 2019 and offers 10 years of private and public sector experience in land use planning, disaster management planning, public engagement, and policy development. Originally from Ontario, she now lives with her family in Mill Bay.
Session #2: Breaking Down Barriers to Larger Buyers
Panelists:
Panelists:
Morgan Milward, Manager of Food Services – Brentwood College School
Brentwood College School is an independent, university preparatory boarding school in Mill Bay, serving Grades 8-12. There are approximately 500 students enrolled at Brentwood, with 400 of those students living on campus full-time.
Morgan studied Culinary Arts at Camosun College and has honed his skills at the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa and the Fireside Grill.
Brentwood College School is an independent, university preparatory boarding school in Mill Bay, serving Grades 8-12. There are approximately 500 students enrolled at Brentwood, with 400 of those students living on campus full-time.
Morgan studied Culinary Arts at Camosun College and has honed his skills at the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa and the Fireside Grill.
Penny De Waal, Owner – Fat Chili Farm
Fat Chili Farm is a Vancouver Island-based hot sauce company located in Cobble Hill, BC. All of the chili's are grown on the family farm in glass greenhouses and polytunnels. Over 1000 chili plants produce a wide range of medium to hot varieties of chili's. Fat Chili Farm’s product line includes syrups, sauces and other condiments and can be found in 10 retail locations on the Island
Fat Chili Farm is a Vancouver Island-based hot sauce company located in Cobble Hill, BC. All of the chili's are grown on the family farm in glass greenhouses and polytunnels. Over 1000 chili plants produce a wide range of medium to hot varieties of chili's. Fat Chili Farm’s product line includes syrups, sauces and other condiments and can be found in 10 retail locations on the Island
Sarah Low, Owner – Hella Phat Vegan
Sarah is a vegan food entrepreneur and strives to share her knowledge of foods in a way that inspires others to live a healthy lifestyle. She has created a line of vegan seasonings made with all organic and gluten-free products.
Sarah is a vegan food entrepreneur and strives to share her knowledge of foods in a way that inspires others to live a healthy lifestyle. She has created a line of vegan seasonings made with all organic and gluten-free products.
Paula & Nairn McPhee, Owner – Zero Waste Emporium
Zero Waste Emporium is Vancouver Island’s first Zero Waste grocery store, providing an enjoyable and affordable package free shopping experience. The Emporium aims to reduce the number of single-use containers that end up in the ocean and the landfill by encouraging customers to bring their own clean, dry containers from home or borrow one from the store. Zero Waste Emporium was the winter of the Ecostar Inspirational New Business Award in 2019 and the Ecopreneur of the Year Award in 2018.
Zero Waste Emporium is Vancouver Island’s first Zero Waste grocery store, providing an enjoyable and affordable package free shopping experience. The Emporium aims to reduce the number of single-use containers that end up in the ocean and the landfill by encouraging customers to bring their own clean, dry containers from home or borrow one from the store. Zero Waste Emporium was the winter of the Ecostar Inspirational New Business Award in 2019 and the Ecopreneur of the Year Award in 2018.
James Street, Manager of Food Processing – BC Ministry of Agriculture
James is passionate about the BC Food Sectors. His specialties are in the area of seafood, locally sourced products, kitchen efficiency, staff retention, waste management, meat cutting, product/menu development and cost control methods.
James is passionate about the BC Food Sectors. His specialties are in the area of seafood, locally sourced products, kitchen efficiency, staff retention, waste management, meat cutting, product/menu development and cost control methods.
Session #3: Cannabis Supporting Food Security!?
Speakers:
Speakers:
Cathryn (Katy) Connelly, Ph.D, Owner - Sea Dog Farm
Katy's presentation will be aimed at farmers considering adding cannabis as an outdoor crop and will provide information on how Sea Dog Farm navigated the micro cannabis licensing process without hiring a consultant or other outside help. Katy and her husband Shawn believe the addition of outdoor cannabis as a crop on their small farm will help them earn a living wage from agriculture.
An avid lifelong learner, Katy has had the good fortune to have experienced several professions. She has worked as a lifeguard, communicator with the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals, technology teacher in the public education systems of BC and Colorado and sessional instructor at UVic. She is currently throwing her heart and soul into her first and everlasting love: farming. Katy and husband Shawn have spent the last 3 years revitalizing a foreclosed and overgrown 5-acre property in Saanichton, BC., called Sea Dog Farm. The farm has orchards, laying chickens, alpacas, bees, berries, flowers and food gardens, with all produce being sold at their farm stand, adjacent to Centennial Park. In early 2019, during a period of complete and utter boredom due to a broken leg, Katy successfully navigated the application process for a micro cannabis license. She is looking forward to adding cannabis to their ever growing list of crops and to helping others through the licensing process so that more farmers are able to make a living wage on their small farms.
Katy's presentation will be aimed at farmers considering adding cannabis as an outdoor crop and will provide information on how Sea Dog Farm navigated the micro cannabis licensing process without hiring a consultant or other outside help. Katy and her husband Shawn believe the addition of outdoor cannabis as a crop on their small farm will help them earn a living wage from agriculture.
An avid lifelong learner, Katy has had the good fortune to have experienced several professions. She has worked as a lifeguard, communicator with the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals, technology teacher in the public education systems of BC and Colorado and sessional instructor at UVic. She is currently throwing her heart and soul into her first and everlasting love: farming. Katy and husband Shawn have spent the last 3 years revitalizing a foreclosed and overgrown 5-acre property in Saanichton, BC., called Sea Dog Farm. The farm has orchards, laying chickens, alpacas, bees, berries, flowers and food gardens, with all produce being sold at their farm stand, adjacent to Centennial Park. In early 2019, during a period of complete and utter boredom due to a broken leg, Katy successfully navigated the application process for a micro cannabis license. She is looking forward to adding cannabis to their ever growing list of crops and to helping others through the licensing process so that more farmers are able to make a living wage on their small farms.
Daniel Adelman, Founder - Blue Roots Farm Ltd.
Daniel will be speaking on the potential of small farms to utilize cannabis cultivation as a means to subsidize and support food production
Daniel has worked as a farmer, consultant, and advocate in the agriculture sector focusing extensively in areas relating to food security, sustainable development, and cannabis. Daniel has built a career in controlled environment agriculture with a focus on plant health, business development, product design, niche market brand positioning, facility management and design, planning and development of integrated systems and policies, navigating regulatory landscapes, and the use of climate control systems. In 2013 Daniel founded Blue Roots Farm Ltd., an innovative greenhouse based vertical farm that became a leading supplier of local salad greens to wholesale markets on Vancouver Island.
Daniel will be speaking on the potential of small farms to utilize cannabis cultivation as a means to subsidize and support food production
Daniel has worked as a farmer, consultant, and advocate in the agriculture sector focusing extensively in areas relating to food security, sustainable development, and cannabis. Daniel has built a career in controlled environment agriculture with a focus on plant health, business development, product design, niche market brand positioning, facility management and design, planning and development of integrated systems and policies, navigating regulatory landscapes, and the use of climate control systems. In 2013 Daniel founded Blue Roots Farm Ltd., an innovative greenhouse based vertical farm that became a leading supplier of local salad greens to wholesale markets on Vancouver Island.
Session #4: Eight Key Success Factors in Food Aggregation
Darren Stott, BSc, Principle - Greenchain Consulting
Aggregation combines products from multiple food producers to be sold through a single channel to buyers. The purpose of this seminar is to share what factors make food aggregation initiatives successful, what it looks like in BC, some of the common challenges and experiences from BC so that you understand what it takes to put your initiative in the best position for success, from an early stage.
Darren is a food supply chain expert with over 20 years of experience. Darren has worked in food retail, category management, inventory management and most recently as a consultant supporting agri-food businesses and organizations in direct marketing, specializing in food hubs. He has worked with clients all over North America from planning, launching, operating and transitioning food hubs.
Aggregation combines products from multiple food producers to be sold through a single channel to buyers. The purpose of this seminar is to share what factors make food aggregation initiatives successful, what it looks like in BC, some of the common challenges and experiences from BC so that you understand what it takes to put your initiative in the best position for success, from an early stage.
Darren is a food supply chain expert with over 20 years of experience. Darren has worked in food retail, category management, inventory management and most recently as a consultant supporting agri-food businesses and organizations in direct marketing, specializing in food hubs. He has worked with clients all over North America from planning, launching, operating and transitioning food hubs.
Session #6: Study on Demand for Cowichan Food Products
Greg McLaren, Managing Director - Farm|Food|Drink
The Cowichan Region has initiated a project that analyzes the demand for local food products with large institutions and what is, or could be produced by, local/Cowichan growers and food processors to fulfill that demand. In this interactive session, the finding to date will be presented and audience input is encouraged.
Greg has over 30 years experience specializing in marketing, business development, and workshops for Farm|Food|Drink business and organizations. He and his team have developed and managed business planning projects, marketing programs, and advertising campaigns with many large and small business enterprises and associations. Greg remains focused on growing local and regional food producers and farm businesses throughout BC and has facilitated a variety of strategic business planning sessions with organizations such as the BC Blueberry Council, Certified Organic Association of BC, Small Scale Food Processor Association, and BC Association of Farmers’ Markets.
The Cowichan Region has initiated a project that analyzes the demand for local food products with large institutions and what is, or could be produced by, local/Cowichan growers and food processors to fulfill that demand. In this interactive session, the finding to date will be presented and audience input is encouraged.
Greg has over 30 years experience specializing in marketing, business development, and workshops for Farm|Food|Drink business and organizations. He and his team have developed and managed business planning projects, marketing programs, and advertising campaigns with many large and small business enterprises and associations. Greg remains focused on growing local and regional food producers and farm businesses throughout BC and has facilitated a variety of strategic business planning sessions with organizations such as the BC Blueberry Council, Certified Organic Association of BC, Small Scale Food Processor Association, and BC Association of Farmers’ Markets.
Session #7: Challenges and Opportunities - Cannabis Business Fundamentals and Next Steps
Panelists:
Panelists:
Jasmine Liu, CEO - Purple Camas Consulting
Jasmine Liu is the CEO of a sought-after cannabis consulting company on Vancouver Island. Before founding Camas Consulting in 2018, she completed an M.A. in Political Science at the University of Victoria, and worked as the Supply Chain Management & Government Relations Officer for a reputable craft cannabis retailer. Using her substantial knowledge on government policy and business development in the cannabis sector, she has brought together a team of skilled subject matter experts with specialized industry knowledge and business acumen required to successfully launch licensed Canadian cannabis business ventures.
Jasmine Liu is the CEO of a sought-after cannabis consulting company on Vancouver Island. Before founding Camas Consulting in 2018, she completed an M.A. in Political Science at the University of Victoria, and worked as the Supply Chain Management & Government Relations Officer for a reputable craft cannabis retailer. Using her substantial knowledge on government policy and business development in the cannabis sector, she has brought together a team of skilled subject matter experts with specialized industry knowledge and business acumen required to successfully launch licensed Canadian cannabis business ventures.
Scott Wilkins, Insurance Broker - FX Insurance
Scott has been a licensed Insurance Broker since 1999. He is the founder to the Medical Marijuana Insurance Program (MMIP). His company now manages hundreds of active policies covering Medical Marijuana production at Residential, Agricultural and Commercial properties. Scott has spoken on Insurance matters as they pertain to the cannabis industry across Canada.
Scott has been a licensed Insurance Broker since 1999. He is the founder to the Medical Marijuana Insurance Program (MMIP). His company now manages hundreds of active policies covering Medical Marijuana production at Residential, Agricultural and Commercial properties. Scott has spoken on Insurance matters as they pertain to the cannabis industry across Canada.
Sarah Campbell, Board Member - Craft Cannabis Association of BC
Sarah Campbell was born into a family of cannabis enthusiasts. Her involvement with the Vancouver Island Compassion Society, one of the first compassion clubs in Canada, inspired her work to liberate cannabis, an herb that should be free to grow and use as we see fit. Sarah is an apprentice herbalist and gardener and has worked with the cannabis plant on many levels. She also has a passion for business, received a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Entrepreneurship and has a background in Operations Management.
Mary Shaw, Executive Lead - B.C. Cannabis Legalization and Regulation Secretariat
Mary Shaw is the Executive Lead of the B.C. Cannabis Legalization and Regulation Secretariat, within the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. The Secretariat led the development of B.C.’s non-medical cannabis regulatory framework and is the central coordinating body for non-medical cannabis policy across the provincial government.
Mary Shaw is the Executive Lead of the B.C. Cannabis Legalization and Regulation Secretariat, within the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. The Secretariat led the development of B.C.’s non-medical cannabis regulatory framework and is the central coordinating body for non-medical cannabis policy across the provincial government.
Session #8: Recipes for Success: New Farmers Share Their Experiences
Speakers:
Speakers:
James & Cammy Lockwood, Owners - Lockwood Farms
James and Cammy, along with James' father Barry, began Lockwood Farms in 2011 with 399 hens and a few rows of vegetable crops that they sold at the Duncan Farmer's Market. After winning the 2015 BC Egg New Entrant Program Lottery and purchasing some additional quota, the Lockwood's have grown their flock to 4250 free-range laying hens that live in a state-of-the-art aviary. They also farm two acres of vegetables that they sell at several farmers markets and local restaurants. Last year, James and Cammy were declared the BC/Yukon's Outstanding Young Farmers for 2019, a program that recognizes excellence and contribution in the agriculture field.
James and Cammy, along with James' father Barry, began Lockwood Farms in 2011 with 399 hens and a few rows of vegetable crops that they sold at the Duncan Farmer's Market. After winning the 2015 BC Egg New Entrant Program Lottery and purchasing some additional quota, the Lockwood's have grown their flock to 4250 free-range laying hens that live in a state-of-the-art aviary. They also farm two acres of vegetables that they sell at several farmers markets and local restaurants. Last year, James and Cammy were declared the BC/Yukon's Outstanding Young Farmers for 2019, a program that recognizes excellence and contribution in the agriculture field.
Nick Neisingh and Niki Strutynski, Owners - Tatlo Road Farms
Nick and Niki are growing a variety of organic vegetables, herbs and fruit in Crofton, BC, as well as a small flock of laying hens. Their products can be found at their farm gate, local markets and through a supplier who distributes for them to the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Niki grew up with a love of fresh food and gardening and completed a degree in Agro-Ecology at UBC. While studying at UBC, Niki met Nick, who would complete a Masters Degree in Architecture. Nick was more interested in designing farm buildings than skyscrapers, so Niki was easily able to convince him that farming was a good career choice. The pair spent 4 years working on organic vegetable farms around the province to hone their craft and settled in their currently location in 2012. They have grown the farm to seven acres since 2012, use agro-ecological practices to manage their farm and are certified organic through the Island Organic Producers Association.
Nick and Niki are growing a variety of organic vegetables, herbs and fruit in Crofton, BC, as well as a small flock of laying hens. Their products can be found at their farm gate, local markets and through a supplier who distributes for them to the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Niki grew up with a love of fresh food and gardening and completed a degree in Agro-Ecology at UBC. While studying at UBC, Niki met Nick, who would complete a Masters Degree in Architecture. Nick was more interested in designing farm buildings than skyscrapers, so Niki was easily able to convince him that farming was a good career choice. The pair spent 4 years working on organic vegetable farms around the province to hone their craft and settled in their currently location in 2012. They have grown the farm to seven acres since 2012, use agro-ecological practices to manage their farm and are certified organic through the Island Organic Producers Association.
Session #9: Planning Wildfire Resilient Farms
Kevin Smith, Wildfire Mitigation Specialist, Regional District of the Central Kootenays
Kevin Smith introduces an exciting tool, aimed at Agricultural Producers, Livestock owners, and those interested in wildfire preparedness. The Climate Action Initiatives Farm and Ranch Wildfire Plan creates a comprehensive and vital information source for those effected by the threat of wildfire, and potentially those responders attempting to effect fire ground operations. Kevin brings an educational approach that will leave attendees inspired to make the mitigation efforts to be prepared for wildfire.
Kevin Smith is an Assistant Fire Chief in the Kootenay Region, Wildfire Mitigation Specialist, Local FireSmart Representative, and Farm and Ranch Preparedness Workshop Facilitator. Kevin brings a wealth of knowledge to share on this hot topic. A Fire and Life Safety Educator, Information Officer, and Red Cross Instructor in the local fire service, Kevin is passionate on the subject of community resiliency from the threat of Wildfire.
Kevin Smith introduces an exciting tool, aimed at Agricultural Producers, Livestock owners, and those interested in wildfire preparedness. The Climate Action Initiatives Farm and Ranch Wildfire Plan creates a comprehensive and vital information source for those effected by the threat of wildfire, and potentially those responders attempting to effect fire ground operations. Kevin brings an educational approach that will leave attendees inspired to make the mitigation efforts to be prepared for wildfire.
Kevin Smith is an Assistant Fire Chief in the Kootenay Region, Wildfire Mitigation Specialist, Local FireSmart Representative, and Farm and Ranch Preparedness Workshop Facilitator. Kevin brings a wealth of knowledge to share on this hot topic. A Fire and Life Safety Educator, Information Officer, and Red Cross Instructor in the local fire service, Kevin is passionate on the subject of community resiliency from the threat of Wildfire.
Session #10: Future Harvest: Training Opportunities for the Next Generation of Farmers
Speakers:
Speakers:
DeLisa Lewis, PhD, Assistant Professor - UBC; Co-owner - Green Fire Farm
Now re-entering farming after a seven-year break to complete her PhD in soils and agroecology, DeLisa has close to two decades of experience managing certified organic mixed vegetable production systems. She was lead instructor for the UBC Farm Practicum in Sustainable Agriculture from 2011-2014, and her teaching, research, and consulting continue with focus areas in soil nutrient management, farm planning, and new farmer training. In addition to her affiliation with UBC, DeLisa co-owns Green Fire Farm where they raise grass-fed beef and pork as well as raise a wide variety of organic produce. DeLisa will discuss existing farmer training programs in BC and new opportunities on Southern Vancouver Island.
Now re-entering farming after a seven-year break to complete her PhD in soils and agroecology, DeLisa has close to two decades of experience managing certified organic mixed vegetable production systems. She was lead instructor for the UBC Farm Practicum in Sustainable Agriculture from 2011-2014, and her teaching, research, and consulting continue with focus areas in soil nutrient management, farm planning, and new farmer training. In addition to her affiliation with UBC, DeLisa co-owns Green Fire Farm where they raise grass-fed beef and pork as well as raise a wide variety of organic produce. DeLisa will discuss existing farmer training programs in BC and new opportunities on Southern Vancouver Island.
Bob Haugen, Continuing Education Manager, Contract and Training Services - North Island College
Bob will provide an overview of the Market Gardening program at North Island College, which he teaches. The program aims to teach the essential concepts and practices of organic market garden agriculture. In addition to greenhouse propagation, soil and plant science, weed and pest control and irrigation technology, students also learn business management and marketing skills, budgeting and crop planning. Bob will discuss a new potential agriculture partnership in the Comox Valley.
Bob will provide an overview of the Market Gardening program at North Island College, which he teaches. The program aims to teach the essential concepts and practices of organic market garden agriculture. In addition to greenhouse propagation, soil and plant science, weed and pest control and irrigation technology, students also learn business management and marketing skills, budgeting and crop planning. Bob will discuss a new potential agriculture partnership in the Comox Valley.
Session #11: Agriculture and Water - The Double-Edged Sword
Natalya Melnychuk, BC Ministry of Agriculture - Climate Action Team Member
The restriction of water use for corn and hay from the Koksilah River outside of Duncan last summer was the first time on the Island that users were forced to stop watering crops. Such issues are telling of what is to come for BC as we start to feel the real effects of climate change. Agricultural water shortages, flooding and the degradation of water quality will all have an impact on production, markets, trade and food security. Available freshwater is projected to be limited by a growing demand for water beyond the agricultural sector and increased variability of precipitation due to climate change. Adapting to these climate risks requires context appropriate changes to production and increased precautionary measures. This work shop will provide participants with a science-based overview of local water related issues, current BC government climate change risk reduction support, and a framework of considerations to take home to continue building resilient farming on the Island.
Natalya Melnychuk is acting as this year's science policy fellow for the BC Ministry of Agriculture's Climate Action Team. Natalya is known for her expertise in water policy and governance and commitment to rural sustainability across BC. Natalya splits her time between the Shuswap and Victoria, aiming to make an impact through research and community involvement working with federal, provincial, local and First Nations governments as well as community groups. In addition to research on water storage topics for the Ministry, she holds a PhD in social and ecological sustainability, sits on the Shuswap Watershed Council, and is the former manager of the collaboratively-led Salute to the Sockeye programming for the Adam's River salmon run.
The restriction of water use for corn and hay from the Koksilah River outside of Duncan last summer was the first time on the Island that users were forced to stop watering crops. Such issues are telling of what is to come for BC as we start to feel the real effects of climate change. Agricultural water shortages, flooding and the degradation of water quality will all have an impact on production, markets, trade and food security. Available freshwater is projected to be limited by a growing demand for water beyond the agricultural sector and increased variability of precipitation due to climate change. Adapting to these climate risks requires context appropriate changes to production and increased precautionary measures. This work shop will provide participants with a science-based overview of local water related issues, current BC government climate change risk reduction support, and a framework of considerations to take home to continue building resilient farming on the Island.
Natalya Melnychuk is acting as this year's science policy fellow for the BC Ministry of Agriculture's Climate Action Team. Natalya is known for her expertise in water policy and governance and commitment to rural sustainability across BC. Natalya splits her time between the Shuswap and Victoria, aiming to make an impact through research and community involvement working with federal, provincial, local and First Nations governments as well as community groups. In addition to research on water storage topics for the Ministry, she holds a PhD in social and ecological sustainability, sits on the Shuswap Watershed Council, and is the former manager of the collaboratively-led Salute to the Sockeye programming for the Adam's River salmon run.
Session #12: BC Traceability for Agriculture, Food & Seafood: Are You Eligible for Government Funding?
Jen McIntyre, Associate - PwC I Sustainable Business Solutions
Traceability is a key component in food safety and can significantly reduce the economic, social and environmental impacts of food safety issues such as product recalls, or emergencies like a contagious disease outbreak. Learn about the programs and types of funding available.
Jen is an associate in the sustainability group at PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers LLC), specializing in fund management and sustainability consulting. Jen has a background in fisheries research and international environmental education, and administers the BC Traceability Funding Programs.
Traceability is a key component in food safety and can significantly reduce the economic, social and environmental impacts of food safety issues such as product recalls, or emergencies like a contagious disease outbreak. Learn about the programs and types of funding available.
Jen is an associate in the sustainability group at PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers LLC), specializing in fund management and sustainability consulting. Jen has a background in fisheries research and international environmental education, and administers the BC Traceability Funding Programs.
Session #13: Managing Soil Nutrients Under the New Agricultural Environmental Code of Practice
Dr. Dieter Geesing, Soils Specialist, BC Ministry of Agriculture; Social Science Instructor at University of the Fraser Valley
The new Agricultural Environmental Management Code of Practice came into effect almost a year ago. It applies to all agricultural operations in BC, from small hobby farms to large commercial operations. The presentation will summarize the key requirements under the new AEM Code as it affects the management and storage of soil nutrients on your farm and how to obtain the necessary information in the field and from online resources.
Dr. Dieter Geesing is the Provincial Soil Specialist with the BC Ministry of Agricultural and has been teaching soil science at the University of the Fraser Valley for more than 10 years. Prior to his current position, he was the Ministry’s Regional Agrologist for Metro Vancouver and worked more than 20 years as a soil scientist with the private industry, academia, NGOs and for the compost industry worldwide. Dieter holds a M.S. in Forestry, a M.S. in Soil and Plant Science and a Ph.D. in Soil Science and Plant Nutrition.
The new Agricultural Environmental Management Code of Practice came into effect almost a year ago. It applies to all agricultural operations in BC, from small hobby farms to large commercial operations. The presentation will summarize the key requirements under the new AEM Code as it affects the management and storage of soil nutrients on your farm and how to obtain the necessary information in the field and from online resources.
Dr. Dieter Geesing is the Provincial Soil Specialist with the BC Ministry of Agricultural and has been teaching soil science at the University of the Fraser Valley for more than 10 years. Prior to his current position, he was the Ministry’s Regional Agrologist for Metro Vancouver and worked more than 20 years as a soil scientist with the private industry, academia, NGOs and for the compost industry worldwide. Dieter holds a M.S. in Forestry, a M.S. in Soil and Plant Science and a Ph.D. in Soil Science and Plant Nutrition.