Agriculture Workshops Offered
Nova Scotians who run small farms or are thinking about starting one will learn agricultural and business skills at workshops in Pictou on Monday, July 30 as part the annual Celebration of Small-Scale Farming.
"Smale-scale farming fits the bill for a lot of Nova Scotians who want to connect with the land and know exactly where their food comes from while earning a living as a farmer, or supplementing their income," said Agriculture Minister John MacDonell.
"Through these workshops, more Nova Scotians have an opportunity to share, learn and participate in this important part of our agriculture sector."
Farmers will lead a variety of workshops and demonstrations of modern small-scale farming practices, technology, farm business management and marketing. They include:
- bioaccumulators: the power of comfrey
- dispelling myths about growing garlic in Nova Scotia
- sheep flock health: the basics from fleece to hooves
- mechanics of composting for the small farm
- marketing meat
- handy tools for small scale vegetable production
- appropriate fencing and the importance of water for livestock
- freedom 55 Farming: farming for seniors
- matching production levels with marketing channels
- sheep foot trimming and shearing
- forage clinic
- soil clinic
- equipment demonstrations
This year, the event also includes contests for the best portable chicken coop, best homemade greenhouse, and best farm stand.
People interested in all types of farming are encouraged to attend the event from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Pictou-North Colchester Exhibition Grounds, 38 Arena Dr. The registration fee is $20 per person, $15 per student or farm apprentice, and $40 per family. The fee includes coupons for local food vendors. Friday, July 27 is the deadline to register.
Download the agenda and registration form, or find more information on the Department of Agriculture website at www.gov.ns.ca/agri/cssf .
The Celebration of Small-Scale Farming is sponsored by the Department of Agriculture, Perennia, Pictou Regional Development Agency, Nova Scotia Agricultural College, Municipality of Pictou County, and Rural Delivery.