HURON & AREA

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

E-BULLETIN
August 2009
If you know someone who is interested in receiving this bulletin or if this has been forwarded to
you and you would like to receive a copy directly, please contact me.
I would be happy to add you to my e-mail distribution group. Just email me at
jane.muegge@ontario.ca

IN THIS MONTH’S BULLETIN…

• Coming Events and Dates of Interest – Pages 1 – 5
Area News and Information
• Local Fairs – pg 5
• Food Safety & Traceability Initiative Full for 2009 – pg 5
• Apprenticeship Scholarship Program – pg 5
• It’s Easy Being Green Trade Show – pg 5
• Next “Huron Perth – Buy Local, Buy Fresh” map – pg 6
• Merchandising materials for farm market – pg 6
• CleanFarms Collection Program – pg 6
• Agricultural Scholarshhip – pg 7
• Checklist for Being an Organic Farmer – pg 7
• Young Speaker for Agriculture Speaking Competition – pg8
• Maple Production Info Centre – pg 9
• Diversifying your Business – What does the taxman think – pg 9
• AALP new crop of leaders – pg 11
• Productivity using Microsoft outlook – pg 11
• Working Smart with Blackberry – pg 12
• Some funding programs for Producers, Community and Agri-Food Industry (11
listed) – pg 12
• OMAFRA Information and Resources Pg. 16
• Last Words – Three Things in Life – pg 17

COMING EVENTS AND DATES OF INTEREST

(Input always welcome – pop me an e-mail or give me a call if you would like your
next event included)

• Aug 1 – Take part in the World’s Longest BBQ – 6 pm – Any Time Zone – This is
our chance to show unconditional support to all the extraordinary men and women
across the nation who put healthy, delicious food on our tables. Count yourself in and log
on to www.foodday.ca and post your menu of Canadian food.
Dress code: Totally casual. Shoes optional. Pride required.

• Aug 5 – ‘It’s Easy Being Green’ Trade Show – Columbus Centre, Goderich, 11 – 5,
FREE For more info Jackie – 519-887-2694 ext 200

• Aug 5 & 12 – Growing Your Farm Profits Business Management Workshops –

Southampton - – contact Jayne Dietrich 519-367-5930 or bruce@ontariosoilcrop.org

• Aug 7, 8, 9 – Dungannon Fair

• Aug 7/14 – Environmental Farm Plan Workshop – Bruce Cty – contact Jayne
Dietrich 519-367-5930 or bruce@ontariosoilcrop.org

1 August 2009 Huron & Area E-Bulletin

 • Aug 12 – Information and registration Night for Univ of Western Fall 2009
Courses offered in Huron and Bruce Counties – 3 – 7 pm at the Suncoast Mall in
Goderich – more info at www.lakehuronlearning.ca

• August 11 – 13 – International Goat Symposium, Lindsay, Ontario. Complete

details at http://www.goatsymposium.com/main.htm

• August 11 & 18, 2009 – Grow Your Farm Profits Workshop, Milverton. Workshop
runs from 10 am – 3 pm. The Growing Your Farm Profits workshop provides a planning
process and resources to maximize your long-term farm business goals. The two-day
workshop will give you the tools needed to self-assess your business. To register please
contact Mary McIntosh, 519-393-6232. Additional workshops will be scheduled in late
November/December and into 2010. For complete details on the Growing Forward
Program and all its components, visit
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/about/growingforward/index.htm

• Aug 12 – 16 - Walton Transcan Grand National Championship Motocross –

Walton www.waltontranscan.ca

• Aug 14 & 15 – Bayfield Fair

• August 15, 2009 – Third Annual Hemp Maze and Field Day, presented by the
Ontario Hemp Alliance. Event to be held on Perth 33 Line, between Shakespeare and
Tavistock. Cost is $10 per vehicle. For further information contact Gordon Scheifele,
519-655-6277.

• August 15, 2009 – Junior Farmers Association Celebrates 65 Years. For full
details, visit http://www.jfao.on.ca/

• Aug 16 – 19 – AMO – Association of Municipalities of Ontario – Ottawa

• Aug 19/26 – Environmental Farm Plan Workshop – Bruce Cty – contact Jayne
Dietrich 519-367-5930 or bruce@ontariosoilcrop.org

• Aug 20 / 27 - Environmental Work Plan Workshops Day 1/ Day 2– Huron

County – OMAFRA Boardroom – contact Lois Sinclair 519-357-3416

• Aug. 21 & 22– Zurich Bean Festival – www.ontarioswestcooast.ca

• Aug 21 – 23 - Clarity Horse Retreat for Women – For more info contact REACH,
www.ReachHuron.ca or 519-433-0703

• Aug 21 – 23 – Teeswater Fair

• Aug. 24 - 30 – Tastes of Huron Food Festival – pig roast, vendors market, cooking
workshops and special menus prepared by local chefs. Visit www.ontarioswestcoast.ca

• August 24 – 28 – Innovative Farmers Association of Ontario 2009 Bus Tour –

Illinois. Check for details at http://www.ifao.com/IFAO-Events.html

• Aug 27, 28 - The Annual Huron County Plowing Match will be held at the farm of
Bob and Pat Down located at the corner of Hurondale Road and Hwy #4 between Exeter
and Hensall. Junior Day on Aug 27 will feature the 4-H Sodbusters achievement day

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 and the Princess of the Furrow competition. On Fri. Aug. 28 there will be plowing
competitions, antique displays, a mini tented city, plowmen's breakfast, Queen of the
Furrow speeches and plowing, food booth and awards BBQ for everyone to enjoy.
Freewill donations at the gate. Come enjoy a day in the country!

• August 27, 2009 – Sheep Lenders’ Conference 2009, Victoria Park East Golf Club,
Guelph. This is a new event hosted by the Large Flock Operators, OMAFRA and the
Ontario Sheep Marketing Agency. Conference agenda and registration details can be
found at http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/sheep/20090824.htm

• Aug 29 – Canada’s Largest Travelling Barn Dance – hosted by Hensall South Huron
Agr. Society at the Hensall Arena Barn dance show 8 – 10 with a dance to midnight
following.

• September 2 – 3, 2009 – Sheep Infrastructure Workshop – complete details at

http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/sheep/20081211.htm

• September 8, 2009 – Swine Liquid Feeding Association Fall Producer Meeting.

Mark your calendar and watch for details at http://www.slfa.ca/

• Sept 9/16 – Environmental Farm Plan Workshop – Bruce Cty – contact Jayne
Dietrich 519-367-5930 or bruce@ontariosoilcrop.org

• Sept 10 /18 - – Environmental Work Plan Workshops Day 1/ Day 2– Huron

County – OMAFRA Boardroom – contact Lois Sinclair 519-357-3416

• Sept 11, 12, 13 – Seaforth Fair

• September 12, 2009 – REACH [Regional Equine & Agricultural Centre of

Huron] Grand Opening. Mark your calendar and plan to attend the Grand Opening of
REACH. The Centre is located at 169 Beech Street in Clinton. Space is available for
booths, displays, seminars and demonstrations. If you are interested visit
http://www.reachhuron.ca/home.cfm for more details.

• Sept. 12 – Stratford Garlic Festival – for more info www.stratfordgarlicfestival.com

• Sept 15 / 16 – Brussels Fair

• September 15 – 17 – Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show, Canada’s Outdoor Park,

Woodstock, Ontario. Check often for details at http://www.outdoorfarmshow.com/

• Sept 18 – Great Lakes ~ Great Links: A Grand Connection – 8:30 – 3:30 – Grand
River Cons. Auth., Cambridge, www.grandriver.ca/waterforum or 519-621-2763 ext 2315

• September 22 – 26 – International Plowing Match and Rural Expo, District of

Temiskaming [near Earlton, Ontario]. Visit http://www.ipm2009.net/

• Sept 28 – Oct 2 – Grey Bruce Children’s Water Festival, Chesley – Grade 4 student
involvement

• Oct 2, 3, 4 – Howick Fair

• Oct 2, 3, 4 – Pumpkinfest, Port Elgin www.pumpkinfest.org

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 • Oct 5 & 6 - Ethnic & Specialty Food Expo including All Things Organic™,
International Centre, Toronto. A two-day targeted business opportunity for the food
industry, with emphasis on cultural, specialty and organic products and suppliers. This
focused forum addresses the trends and needs of the food industry, both retail and
foodservice, as it responds and evolves to the wants of consumers. For full details,
please visit http://www.ethnicandspecialtyfood.com/

• Oct 15 – 17 – Walkerton Little Royal Fall Fair

• Oct 15 – Women’s Institute London Area Convention,

• Oct. 16 – World Food Day

• Oct 17 – Harvest Dinner – Van Egmond House, Egmondville - 6 pm

• Oct 17 – Woodstock Fleece Festival – More info at www.fleecefestival.com

• Oct 22 – Huron Federation of Agriculture Annual Mtg Seaforth Agri-Plex, 7 pm

• Oct 22 – Funding Forum – Mitchell – More info to follow

• Oct 30 – Bruce County Federation of Agriculture Annual Meeting

• Nov. 6 – 15 – Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Toronto The Direct Energy Centre,
Exhibition Place, Toronto. Watch for details at http://www.royalfair.org/

• Nov 9 & 10 – Focus on Productivity – 38th Poultry Innovations Conference –

Sheraton Fallsview, Niagara Falls, www.poutryindustrycouncil.ca 1-519-837-0284

• Nov 12 – Huron Manufacturing Association Annual Meeting a & Awards in

Excellence – Holmesville

• Nov 14 – Perth County Federation of Agriculture Annual Meeting – Mitchell Golf

& Country Club, 7 pm

• Nov 26 – Dr. Temple Grandin speaks on Cattle Handling to Reduce Stress from
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Registration is $30 (price includes hot lunch). Pre-Registration is
required, space is limited and this event is expected to sell out early. To register, contact
Grey Ag. Services at: 519-986-3756. Event is sponsored by the Grey-Bruce Farmers
Week Committee.

• Nov 26 – Dr. Temple Grandin speaks on Preventing Behaviour Problems in

Your Horse, 5:30 p.m. Registration is $10; Pre-Registration is required, space is limited
and this event is expected to sell out early. To register, contact Grey Ag. Services at:
519-986-3756. Event is sponsored by the Grey-Bruce Farmers Week Committee

• January 6 – 11, 2009 – Grey-Bruce Farmers Week, Elmwood Community Centre.

Pre-registration is mandatory. Complete event information available by visiting
http://www.greyagservices.ca/grey-bruce-farmers-week

• January 13 - 14, 2010 – Certified Crop Advisors Annual Conference, Bestwestern

Lamplighter Inn, London.

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 • January 23 - Farm$mart Agricultural Conference, University of Guelph. Mark
your calendar and watch for details at www.uoguelph.ca/farmsmart

• February 2 – 3, 2010 – Ontario Soil & Crop Improvement Association Annual

Meeting, Sheraton Fallsview, Niagara Falls.

AREA NEWS & INFORMATION

LOCAL FAIRS
You won’t want to miss the one in your area. Check dates for ones closest to you at
www.ontariofairs.com Fairs in the district 8 region include:
Bayfield August 14-16 519-482-3020
Mitchell September 4-6 519-229-6210
Seaforth September 10-13 519-527-1321
Kirkton September 11-13 519-229-8151
Brussels September 15-16 519-877-6687
Milverton September 18-20 519-595-4424
Stratford September 24-27 519-271-5130
Howick-Turnberry October 2-4 519-335-3269

FOOD SAFETY AND TRACEABILITY INITIATIVE APPLICATIONS ARE NO LONGER

BEING ACCEPTED FOR 2009-2010
Due to the overwhelming response from stakeholders, applications are no longer being accepted
for the 2009-10 Food Safety and Traceability Initiative under Growing Forward. Program funds
are allocated annually and distributed on a first come, first served basis. Once the annual
program funds are fully committed, we can no longer accept applications for cost-share funding
for that year.
Only applications received prior to July 17 2009 will be considered for funding. If mailed, the
application must be postmarked prior to this date; if submitted electronically, the application
must be received prior to 9:00 a.m. All applicants will be notified of the status of their projects
within the program. Applicants who do not receive funding for 2009-10 are encouraged to re-
apply next year. Information regarding the availability of funds for 2010-11 will be posted on the
ministry’s website at www.ontario.ca/growingforward.
Growing Forward, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.

INFO ON APPRENTICESHIP SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

The Huron Manufacturing Association and United Communities Credit Union are once again
partnering to offer 4 x $1,000 apprenticeship scholarships. The deadline is not until September
but you all know how quickly the summer slips by. Please forward the attached brochure to
employers or apprentices that you may be currently working with. Applicants are required to fill
out a short application form, and awards will be presented at the HMA Excellence Awards on
November 12th, in Holmesville. For more info (519)524-8394 x279 rrathwell@huroncounty.ca

IT’S EASY BEING GREEN’ TRADE SHOW

If you come to the Columbus Centre in Goderich on Wednesday August 5 from 11 am to 5 pm
you will discover why `It’s Easy Being Green’!
The Centre for Applied Renewable Energy (CfARE), the Huron Business Development

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Corporation and Huron Small Business Enterprise Centre are inviting everyone to their second
energy and environment trade show featuring exhibits from area businesses, organizations and
individuals. Everything from hybrid cars to energy-saving roofs and soy based spray-foam
insulation will be on display. There will be environmentally friendly cleaning products, healthy
hemp products, and much more. For those interested in renewable energy technology there will
be solar hot water systems, small scale wind turbines and photovoltaic panels on display.
During the afternoon three free information sessions will be presented. At 1:00 pm Matt
Vermeulen, a Certified Energy Advisor with the Elora Environment Centre. will discuss ‘The House
as a System’ and the ins and outs of a home energy audit. Matt is a regular guest on the Talk
Show with Bryan Allen on CKNX. At 2:00 pm, Bill King from KW Power Logic, will show you how
to ‘Find the $Green$ in Green Energy’ by investing in rooftop solar energy systems. At 3:00 pm,
Dennis Schilthuis of West Coast Renovations, will demonstrate how ‘Insulated Concrete Form
Construction’ works, its cost and how it reduces our environmental footprint.
From 12.30 pm to 4:00 pm, Scientists in School will present an exciting, hands-on event for
children ages 5 to 10. Scientists in School is dedicated to inspiring student interest in science
and technology.
CfARE is extremely proud to have Victor Kloeze, a graduate of Goderich District Collegiate
Institute as an exhibitor. Kloeze took top honours in the Avon Maitland-Huron-Perth, Senior
Engineering/Environmental Innovation Division of the Canada Wide Science Fair. He went on to
capture Senior Gold Medals at Dalhousie University, the University of Ottawa, and the University
of Western Ontario. His project, “The Goderich Sustainable Home” is designed to passively
reduce energy expenditures in an average family home.
Admission to ‘It’s Easy Being Green’ is free. The Knights of Columbus will be operating a food
booth throughout the day.
For more information contact Jackie at 519-887-2694 ext. 200.

SECOND EDITION – HURON PERTH – BUY LOCAL, BUY FRESH MAP – COMING SOON!
The launch of the second edition of the “Buy Local, Buy Freshl” map to promote local farmer
direct sales and food sources within Huron Perth will be released during the Tastes of Huron
week Aug 24 – 30. Not only at events, this map will also be available from Clinton and Stratford
OMAFRA Centres, County of Huron Planning Dept., Huron & Perth Federation of Agriculture
offices, Huron & Perth Health Units, Perth Visitor Centre in Shakespeare and Stratford tourism
office plus many more locations. You’ll want one of these maps!

NEED MERCHANDISING MATERIALS FOR YOUR ON FARM MARKET OR FARMERS'

MARKET?
Foodland Ontario is pleased to offer display materials to help you identify your products. We have
a variety of different items available free of charge including posters, commodity cards, base
wrap and price cards. If you would like these materials, please call the Foodland Hotline at 888-
466-2372 ext. 63428.
Remember, Ontario consumers look for the Foodland logo so they can 'Pick Ontario Freshness'

CLEANFARMS COLLECTION PROGRAM

A well-established obsolete pesticide collection program is being expanded this year to also
provide farmers with safe disposal for unused animal health products and sharps. This first-of-
its-kind program is taking place this fall as part of an Ontario government-supported Great Lakes
Basin water quality initiative that offers farmers a way to recycle these items.

As part of this project, farmers will be able to bring their obsolete pesticides, unused animal
health products and used sharps (needles, syringes and scalpel blades) to a series of 16
collection sites across the province for safe and environmentally responsible disposal October 20-

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22, 2009. More than 270,000 kilograms of obsolete product have been collected in Ontario
during previous collection campaigns in 2001 and 2005. A pilot project collecting just animal
health products and used sharps was held at six collection sites in Ontario last fall. This year’s
expanded program is being run on a trial basis in conjunction with a feasibility study looking at
long term, sustainable collection options. “Farmers are responsible environmental stewards who
are committed to protecting our water and our land,” says Schaer. “Water quality is important to
all Ontarians, but especially to farmers, who depend on it for their lives and their livelihoods.”This
program is co-ordinated by AGCare with financial support from CropLife Canada and the Ontario
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. Other project partners include Ontario Farm
Animal Council, Canadian Animal Health Institute, Ontario Veterinary Medical Association and
Ontario Agri Business Association. For more information, visit www.agcare.org or www.ofac.org.

Collection locations:
Ailsa Craig: Hensall District Co-operative
Brodhagen: Hoegy’s Farm Supply Ltd.
Courtland: Cargill AgHorizons
Dundalk: Huron Bay Co-operative
Harriston: North Wellington Co-operative Inc.
Kitchener: GROWMARK Inc. – Distribution Centre
Orangeville: Holmes Agro Ltd.
Tilbury: Cargill AgHorizons
Vienna: Max Underhill’s Farm Supply Ltd.

BRUCE COUNTY INTERNATIONAL PLOWING MATCHING (IPM) COMMODITIES FOOD

COURT AGRICULTURAL SCHOLARSHIP The Bruce County IPM Food Court Committee, was
driven by a group of volunteers representing many Bruce County Commodities. It was their
desire to highlight Bruce County fare and offer healthy menu choices at the Bruce County IPM
2008. Due to the hard work and diligence of many volunteers and the willingness of those who
attended the IPM to chose our local fare we are happy to announce the formation of a $1000.00
agricultural scholarship to a student in Bruce County. This scholarship will be available for the
years 2009 through to 2016.
In order to be eligible a student must apply in their high school graduating year (could be
attending a school in a neigbouring county) and must be a resident of Bruce County. The
applicant will be continuing a post secondary education in agriculture (pending post secondary
school acceptance) or an apprenticeship in an agricultural related area, or will be substantially
engaged in the business of farming.
The application will consist of the applicants resume, including a description of future plans and
desire to remain involved in agriculture.
The applications will be sent to CKNX Radio Station, Attention to: Bruce County IPM Commodities
Food Court Agr. Scholarship by August 1st of the current year.

CANADIAN YOUNG SPEAKER FOR AGRICULTURE PREPARES FOR 2009 COMPETITION

Do you have a passion for the agriculture industry? Are you between the ages of 11 and 24 and
looking for an opportunity to share your enthusiasm with others? If you answered yes, don’t miss
out on the 25th Annual Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture (CYSA) public speaking
competition!
Each year as part of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, Ontario, young men and
women from across Canada gather for the CYSA competition to express their ideas and share
views on Canadian agriculture. The CYSA competition has two divisions, Senior and Junior. The

7 August 2009 Huron & Area E-Bulletin

Senior division is open to young men and women who are between the ages of 16 and 24, and
the Junior division is open to ages 11 to 15. Participants must prepare and present a 5 -7 minute
speech in either English or French on one of the five topics given. This year’s competition will be
held on Saturday November 7, 2009, at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. Finalists in both
divisions will receive cash prizes, with the senior champion receiving $1000 and the Junior
champion receiving $500.
Topics for 2009:
~Behind the scenes: The unsung heroes of Canadian agriculture
~Changes I would make as the Federal Minister of Agriculture for a day
~How Canadian agriculture is being affected by the global economic downturn
~Why I want to make my career in agriculture
~Farming the future: Taking agriculture into the 21st century
If you are between the ages of 11 and 24, don’t pass up this opportunity to communicate your
passion! Applications can be found on-line at www.cysa-joca.ca. Inquiries and other application
requests should be directed to Ted Young, Chair - at 519-824-9253 or tedyoung@cysa-joca.ca.
Applications can be completed online or forwarded to CYSA Inc, P.O. Box 25015, Stone Road Mall
Postal Outlet, 370 Stone Road West, Unit 17, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2X0.The deadline for
applications is September 30, 2009

CHECKLIST FOR BEING AN ORGANIC FARMER by Hugh Martin, Organic Crop

Production Program Lead, OMAFRA
The following are some of the basic requirements for organic farms:
Only used inputs that are listed on the “Permitted Substances List” of the Canadian Organic
Standard on the field during the past 36 months (prior to harvest) of the organic crop;
Do not use genetically modified inputs (seed, inoculants, etc.);
Must have a farm plan detailing inputs and practices for each field and livestock group;
Maintains excellent field records and daily journals to permit traceability of the farm products
and on-farm practices;
Does not grow the same crop as organic and non-organic, unless it is visually
distinguishable;
Maintains an identification system for distinguishing organic and non-organic crops, livestock
and products during production, processing, handling and storage;
Soil fertility and biological activity of the soil is maintained by using crop rotations,
incorporating plant and animal matter (cover crops) and animal manure as appropriate
according to the farm plan;
Manure management practices should minimize soil and water degradation;
Crop pest management enhances crop growth using preventative methods and uses a
combination of cultural and mechanical methods, and botanical and biological measures
when necessary;
The operator shall establish and maintain preventative health care measures;
Livestock shall be managed responsibly with care and respect. Stress shall be minimized in
all handling practices;
Organic livestock operations shall establish and maintain animal living-conditions that
accommodate the health and natural behaviour of all animals;
Organic livestock shall be fed organic feeds and have access to the outdoors whenever
weather conditions permit. Herbivores must have access to pasture during the grazing
season (minimum 30% of total forage intake);
An organic system must maintain the organic qualities of the product from production,
preparation, storage, handling and labelling, to point of sale;

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 Processing methods can be mechanical, physical or biological (e.g. fermentation and
smoking) and minimizes the use of non-agricultural ingredients, food additives and
processing aids;
During the transition to certified organic, the operator should apply for certification to an
accredited organic certification body at least 15 months prior to harvest of the organic
products;
Protect the environment, minimize soil erosion and soil degradation, and maintain water and
air quality as much as possible;
Encourage biological diversity within the farm system; and
Recycle materials and use renewable resources whenever possible.
This is a very brief synopsis of over 60 pages of the organic standards and on using organic farm
practices. For more details, refer to www.ontario.ca/organic.

MAPLE PRODUCTION INFORMATION CENTRE

Ontario’s maple syrup producers have a new tool to make production easier. Those crisp spring
days of maple season seem far off but the timing is right to start planning for next spring’s sap
run. The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) has packaged all
facets of production into one business information bundle to make finding information easier for
producers.
The maple syrup production business information bundle is a one-stop maple storehouse for
commercial and hobby producers. Created in consultation with producers, the maple syrup
bundle is part of the government’s efforts to make it easier to do business in the province by
consolidating all related information in one place, in this case – www.ontario.ca/maple.
It’s entirely online so producers can access the information whenever they can make time in
their busy schedule. The maple syrup bundle offers information on everything from production,
sugarbush management and sales, to food and occupational safety, labour laws and links to
industry organizations. Provincial and federal production information is at a producer’s fingertips
so it’s much easier now to stay up-to-date.
The business resources section of the maple bundle also links to various government programs
such as Growing Forward which has food safety and business development components. The
suite of programs offers producers workshops and resources which can open the door to cost-
share funding for improvements in a farm operation.
Next season’s sap run is a few months away but planning can start now with a few clicks at the
maple syrup business information bundle now online

DIVERSIFYING YOUR BUSINESS – WHAT DOES THE TAXMAN THINK ABOUT THAT?
By Rob Gamble, OMAFRA Guelph
If you’re like many Ontario farmers you have no doubt thought about getting closer to your
customer. In other words you’d like to be closer to their wallet. Diversify your business and
produce a finished product. Get some of that middleman cash. I applaud you. Good strategy for
those who have the skills, inclination and personality to pull it off.
On top of that Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) applauds you. More revenue. And while they are
cheering you on they are also interested in how you are structuring that value added or direct to
the consumer or farm related business. Here’s why. CRA is happy to allow farmers to file
income tax on a cash basis. Very advantageous for farmers. You don’t have to report income
until you receive it. You don’t report inventory. This allows you to smooth your income to some
extent. Non farming businesses on the other hand must report income on an accrual basis. That
means accounts receivable are counted as income whether of not you have received them. An
increase in inventory becomes income. On the upside accounts payable and a decrease in
inventory reduce income. On the whole though, not so flexible.

9 August 2009 Huron & Area E-Bulletin

 So CRA wants to know if you’re farming or not. They also want to know if you have one business
or two.
So What
Why worry you say. Here’s why. If the new business is not farming then the income has to be
reported on an accrual basis. And if your new business is a separate business it means that you
need to keep 2 sets of books.
At this point many of you have had enough. You’re tired of reading this stuff. That’s fine
because you have all you need to know. The take home message is check with your accountant
about your specific situation. And check ahead of time not after you have dropped a lot of cash
into the project.
If you want the details keep reading.
Separate Business or Not?
The answer to this hinges around how connected the businesses are. Producing electricity from
biogas would probably be closely connected to the farming business especially if the farming
operation alone supplies the manure or crops for the digester. Under that scenario a case could
be made that they are one business. This might be the case for a winery as well where a
vineyard supplies all or a large portion of the grapes to the winery. So lets say you are
connected and you have one business. Is it a farming business or not?
Farming or Not Farming
Farming is defined in the income tax act. You can look it up. Section 248. To paraphrase,
(which I know I should never do with tax legislation), it is as you would expect – tilling of soil,
raising of livestock, keeping of bees etc, etc. The point is, things like producing electricity, selling
wood, producing wine, and running a retail outlet are not in the definition and therefore not
farming. This means you have to file on the accrual basis and you’ll likely opt to keep two sets of
books and not be seen as one business even if you could. This is because most farmers want to
keep the farm business on a cash basis and want to have farming income so they can access the
capital gains exemption on qualified farm property.
Wait you say. I know a person who sells non farm stuff and puts it on the farming statement.
So does CRA. They let farmers do that when:
1. the activities are related to the other farming activities
2. the activities are undertaken on a small scale
3. the income generated by these activities is incidental to the taxpayers other farming
revenue. (meaning it is small compared to the other farming revenue)
An example would be a dairy farmer who sells firewood from a farm woodlot. If the sales are
small compared to the dairy sales then it is all farming income. If however the amount became
significant or perhaps the farmer started buying other logs to split and package then it would be
a separate business.
At Last… a Summary
In a nutshell there are three possible outcomes for the diversified farmer. You may have:
1. Two separate businesses – one farming (cash basis filing) and one non farming (accrual
filing)
2. One business non farming – all accrual filing
3. One farming business– cash filing
Remember – keep in touch with your account.
The really keen folks can check a couple of interpretation bulletins on this oh so interesting
topic.
IT-206R – Separate Businesses and IT – 433R – Farming or Fishing – Use of Cash
Method

10 August 2009 Huron & Area E-Bulletin

AALP SELECTS A NEW CROP OF LEADERS FOR CLASS 13
Leadership is not a spectator sport – it must be practiced. The selection of the thirty individuals
who will participate in the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) Class 13 was
recently made by the board of The Centre for Rural Leadership (TCRL).
These current and emerging leaders within Ontario’s agriculture, agri-food and rural sectors will
embark on their AALP leadership journey on September 27, 2009 when they meet at their first
seminar in Guelph, Ontario. During the 19 months of the program, they will learn more about
leadership and organizational development theories and practices, government and political
processes, economics, trade policies, global affairs, sector and industry related issues here at
home in Ontario and globally through North American and International study travel
components.
“Those selected as participants in AALP Class 13 include:
John Borland, Egbert, Cash Crop Producer
Sarah Brown, Guelph, Quarry Integrated Communications
Clinton Buttar, Guelph, Farm Credit Canada
Andrew Chisholm, Woodstock, Monsanto Canada
Gunther Csoff, Walsingham, Tobacco & Cash Crop Producer
Bonnie denHaan, Loretto, Dairy Producer
Darlene Downey, Caledon, Downey’s Farm Market
Phil Emmott, Drayton, RBC Royal Bank
Doug Eng, Zephyr, Organic, Fruit & Vegetable Producer
David Ferguson, St. Thomas, Dairy & Cash Crop Producer
Neil Hemingway, Brussels, BroadGrain Commodities Inc.
Nathan Klages, Guelph, Syngenta Crop Protection Canada Inc.
Jordan Kniaziew, Kingsville, Pepper Producer
Rick Kush, Guelph, Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada
Matt Langford, Thamesford, Matt Langford Insurance
Henry Lise, Hagersville, Broiler & Cash Crop Producer
Carol Maki, Thunder Bay, Beef Producer
Arlie McFaul, Guelph, Agricorp
Kathryn Minten, Kerwood, Dairy & Cash Crop Producer
Katija Morley, Guelph, eBiz Professionals Inc.
Michel-Antoine Renaud, Guelph, Flowers Canada
Andre Roy, Cambridge, Grober Nutrition
Christa Royce, Listowel, Trillium Mutual Insurance
Drew Spoelstra, Binbrook, Dairy & Cash Crop Producer
Ben Sterk, Embro, Dairy, Field & Cash Crop Producer
Arik Theijsmeijer, Sudbury, FedNor/Industry Canada
Amadou Thiam, Gatineau, OMAFRA
Bruce VanderWees, Thunder Bay, Egg Producer
Melanie Williams, Palgrave, Rural Clean Water Program
Tim Williams, Petrolia, Cash Crop & Vegetable Producer
Contact: The Centre for Rural Leadership, (519) 826-4204 (Ext. 225) rblack@ruralleadership.ca

PRODUCTIVITY IMPROVEMENT USING MICROSOFT OUTLOOK®

Ö September 23. Ontario AgriCentre, 100 Stone Road Road West, Guelph. 9:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Ö November 25. Ontario AgriCentre, 100 Stone Road Road West, Guelph. 9:00. to 4:00 p.m.
This day-long workshop on productivity training and time management solutions will help you
integrate communications, tasks, activities and planning using Microsoft Outlook®. This
workshop will show you how to reconfigure your task pad enabling you to focus on your
priorities, how to communicate more effectively and how to fulfill and coordinate your

11 August 2009 Huron & Area E-Bulletin

commitments, all of which will contribute to a measurable increase in productivity at work and at
home.
Past participants have indicated that this fast paced, high-quality training workshop has
fundamentally changed the way they do business, use Outlook, and deal with email, day to day
tasks and time management issues. They note that this ‘change’ is immediate, ongoing and easy
to implement and keep using in both your work and personal environments.
The cost of this day long workshop is $545.00 with refreshments and lunch included For more
information and to register for this workshop please contact The Centre for Rural Leadership at
519-826-4204.

WORKING SM@RT WITH BLACKBERRY

Ö October 27, Ontario AgriCentre, 100 Stone Road West, Guelph, ON 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
This ½ day workshop on working smarter with your Blackberry was created in conjunction with
Research in Motion (RIM). Graduates of this workshop increase productivity and enhance on-
the-job performance by knowing how to match the right process and skill set when using their
BlackBerry devices.
The goal of this workshop is to learn how to apply Priority Management's workload management
processes in a BlackBerry environment. In Working Sm@rt with BlackBerry participants will
learn:
• Processes to manage email in a BlackBerry environment ;
• How to better use your BlackBerry with Outlook and get these tools “on the same page”;
• When and why to use a BlackBerry… not just how; and
• How to make your BlackBerry a proactive tool.
While not required it is strongly recommended that participants participate in Productivity
Improvement Using Microsoft Outlook® prior to taking this course.
Cost is $395.00 with morning and mid morning refreshments included.
For more information and to register for this workshop please contact The Centre for Rural
Leadership at 519-826-4204 or visit http://www.aalp.on.ca/program-calendar.aspx

SOME FUNDING PROGRAMS AVAILABLE FOR PRODUCERS,

COMMUNITY AND AGRI-FOOD INDUSTRY
ENVIRONMENTAL FARM PLAN EDITION 3 WORKSHOPS
This is a voluntary cost share program to encourage producers to improve management practices
that contribute to air and water quality. Cost share is set at either 30 or 50% and producers
could receive up to $30,000.00.
You are encourage to make application for the funds asap as it is a limited amount of money that
is available.

GROWING YOUR FARM PROFITS WORKSHOP

This new workshop for farm businesses incorporates self-assessment and the developing of an
action plan with a range of cost share advisory services and skill development opportunities to
help you reach your farm's business goals.
After completing the workshop producers will be able to access the resources needed to achieve
those goals. Advanced business planning services are available on a cost share basis for up to
50% cost share to a max of $8000.00.
Participants are also eligible to access a professional Farm Financial Advisor who will reveiw past
financial performance and analyse the current business situation. The program covers up to
$2400.00 of eligible costs to hire an advisor and the participant pays $100.00.
There is up to $3000.00 at 50% cost share to help implement the elements of an advanced
business plan as well.

12 August 2009 Huron & Area E-Bulletin

CANADIAN AGRICULTURAL LOANS ACT (CALA)
The Canadian Agricultural Loans Act (CALA) is a loan guarantee program which provides loans to
farmers and agricultural co-operatives.
Who can apply?
• Existing farmers
• Beginning/start-up farmers (i.e. less than 6 years of farming)
• Farmers taking over the family farm
• Agricultural co-operatives with a majority (50% + 1) farmer membership
If a purchase has already been made, a farmer has 60 days to receive funding from a lender for
a CALA loan. A beginning or start-up farmer should be prepared to provide the lender with a
business plan and/or an income tax form showing no farm income and/or expenses at least once
in the last six years.
Agricultural co-operatives will need to be prepared to provide a current income tax return
showing farm income and/or expenses from 50% + 1 of its members or a notorized attestation
as to their membership.
Where to apply?
The following financial institutions offer loans under the CALA:
• Chartered banks • Trust companies • Alberta Treasury Branches • Loan companies • Credit
unions • Insurance companies • Caisses populaires • Other designated organizations
Fees
The farmer must pay a fee to have the loan registered and guaranteed under the CALA. This fee
is 0.85% of the amount of the loan. The lender may also charge an administration fee of 0.25%
of the amount of the loan up to a maximum of $250.
What is eligible?
Eligible loan purposes include the following that must be used in the applicant’s farming
operation:
• Equipment
• Building/ Construction
• Land
• Livestock
• Shares in a farming operation
Loan Amount
The maximum loan is:
• $500,000 for land and the construction or improvement of buildings.
• $350,000 for all other loan purposes.
The maximum aggregate loan limit for any one borrower is $500,000. The maximum aggregate
loan limit for agricultural cooperatives, is $3 million, with the Minister’s approval.
Repayment terms
The maximum term for loans is 10 years, with 15 years for loans on land purchases.
Interest rates
Interest to be paid on a floating rate is the lender’s prime rate plus a maximum of 1%. Interest
to be paid on a fixed-term rate uses a formula based on the lender’s residential mortgage rate
plus a maximum of 1%.
For more information: Contact your financial institution, E-mail CALA at fgp-pgf@agr.gc.ca,
Call the CALA toll-free line at 1-888-346-2511 or visit the CALA website at
http://www.agr.gc.ca/cala

ONTARIO MARKET INVESTMENT FUND (OMIF)

PROMOTE LOCAL FOODS WITH THE ONTARIO MARKET INVESTMENT FUND (OMIF)
Agri-food industry stakeholders and local food networks are invited to apply for funding to
increase consumer awareness of Ontario foods and encourage Ontarians to buy locally. The

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provincial government will fund up to 50 per cent of your project's eligible cost. The maximum
grant is $100,000 per approved project.
Collaboration and partnerships are required. Eligible applicants include strategic alliances
between individuals, businesses, farmers, processors, industry associations and community
organizations, including not-for-profits and/or municipalities. Project activities may include market
research, market development, communication initiatives, and consumer or trade events. See the
OMIF website at http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/food/domestic/omif/omif.html for a list of
approved projects.
Application forms are available online at www.ontario.ca/omif or by calling the Agricultural
Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300 or OMAFRA at 1-888-588-4111.

NRC-IRAP: SMALL PROJECT ACCELERATED REVIEW PROCESS (ARP)

The National Research Council of Canada, through its Industrial Research Assistance Program
(NRC-IRAP), is helping small and medium-sized enterprises grow by providing funding for
business, technology and market-oriented support.
The Small Project Accelerated Review Process (ARP) provides grants of up to $50,000 to cover 75
per cent of consulting costs and 100 per cent of internal labour for projects that address
technology, business and market-oriented needs. Eligible firms must be incorporated and for-
profit with 500 or less full-time employees; have a separate legal status and operate in Canada;
and have the objective to grow and generate profits through the adoption, development and
commercialization of innovative or technology-driven products, services or processes. For more
information, including a list of eligible projects, contact your local Industrial Technology Advisor
or contact NRC-IRAP at 1-877-994-4727.

CANADIAN DAIRY COMMISSION MATCHING INVESTMENT FUND

Your idea for a new and innovative dairy product may be eligible for funding from the Canadian
Dairy Commission’s (CDC) new Matching Investment Fund (MIF).
The CDC has committed $6 million over three years to encourage growth and innovation in the
manufacture and use of Canadian dairy products and ingredients. Funding is available for product
development activities, such as consultations with experts, product analysis, trials and technology
transfer, industrial scale tests, facility retrofitting, sample preparation and packaging techniques.
The maximum CDC contribution per project is $50,000 for consultations and $250,000 for
product development. This funding must be matched in cash or in kind by the participating
companies. Eligible applicants include dairy product manufacturers, processors and food
technology centres. For more information or to apply, download the MIF Program Guide, which
includes a Project Summary Form for initial application, from www.MILKingredients.ca. The
program guide is also available by calling 1-866-366-0676, or e-mailing the program
administrator at ingredients@agr.gc.ca. MIF applications will be accepted from August 1, 2009 to
July 31, 2012, subject to available funds.

SMALL BUSINESS INTERNSHIP PROGRAM (SBIP)

The Small Business Internship Program provides small and medium-sized businesses (SME’s) up
to a total of $10,000 to hire a post secondary student intern to assist them in their adoption of
information and communications technologies to increase their productivity and competitiveness.
The SME negotiates the salary of the intern, and the benefits they may receive. Once the 12-
week internship is over, the Government of Canada will reimburse 75 percent of their eligible
costs, up to a total of $10,000. The SME gets the information and communications technologies
help they need to grow their business, and the student gets valuable on-the-job experience. The
Small Business Internship Program seeks to improve the competitiveness of SME’s by supporting

14 August 2009 Huron & Area E-Bulletin

businesses to actively market on-line and improve their competitiveness with e-business practices
and technologies.
To be eligible for this program, your firm must:
be a small or medium-sized enterprise with less than 500 employees;
be incorporated;
wish to enhance your e-business capability.
This program will put 20 interns in 12-week positions to help companies get online sales and
marketing projects operating. The government pays 75% up to $10,000 for a 12-week position.
For more information or to apply, go to http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/sbip-pspe.nsf/eng/home.

AIME Initiative — ACHIEVING INNOVATION & MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE

Helping manufacturers become more competitive and innovative is the goal of the Achieving
Innovation & Manufacturing Excellence (AIME) Initiative, a partnership of the Yves Landry
Foundation and the Government of Ontario. Grants of up to $50,000 are available for training
projects that lead to advancements in innovation within the Ontario manufacturing sector.
Due to the popularity of this program, interested companies should submit an
application as soon as possible. More information and application forms are available on the
Yves Landry Foundation website.

GFTC SUSTAINABILITY SERVICES

Sustainable business practices are not only good for the environment they’re good for your
bottom line. Greening your processes and products can help your organization use resources
wisely, save money and build a stronger brand image. The Guelph Food and Technology Centre
(GFTC) is making it easy for the food and beverage industry to go green by offering sustainability
services that include training; strategic management consulting; and energy, environment and
packaging efficiency assessments. OMAFRA’s sponsorship provides the Ontario food and
beverage industry with a 50 per cent discount on GFTC sustainability services and course
registrations. For more information, visit GFTC’s website or contact Cher Brethour at
cbrethour@gftc.ca or by phone at (519) 821-1246, Ext. 5062.

THE FOOD SAFETY AND TRACEABILITY INITIATIVE (FSTI)

This funding, part of Growing Forward, will help facilities adopt food safety and traceability
practices. These practices help producers and processors respond to market demands for safe
food and improve product tracking.
FSTI provides 75% reimbursement of eligible expenses up to a maximum of $20,000 to:
• implement written food safety programs
• implement a working traceability system
• assist in the purchase and installation of equipment that improves food safety or
traceability
• train staff to increase the adoption of food safety and traceability
Although this year’s funding has been committed, you will want to have everything ready to
apply for the next available funds.

15 August 2009 Huron & Area E-Bulletin

MEAT PLANT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (MPAP)
This Program provides assistance to:
• non-federally registered Slaughter Plants (abattoirs)
• Free-standing meat plants
that must comply with O.Reg. 31/05 under the Food Safety and Quality Act, 2001. To receive
funding under this program, your plant must be licensed by the Food Inspection Brach of
OMAFRA. For more information: Toll Free: 1-866-641-3663 E-mail: advantage@ontario.ca

OMAFRA INFORMATION, PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES:

CLINTON OMAFRA RESOURCE CENTRE,
100 DON STREET, BOX 159, CLINTON, N0M 1L0
519-482-3333

Agricultural Information Contact Centre (AICC): 1-877-424-1300 / Email:

ag.info@omafra.gov.on.ca
OMAFRA Web site: http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca
Nutrient Management Information Line: 1-866-242-4460 E-mail -
nman@omafra.gov.on.ca
Agricultural Policy Framework (APF)
Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization Program (CAIS) - 1-877-838-5144
Renewal - www.agr.gc.ca/renewal

2009 Rural Organization Contacts

Each year we compile a comprehensive list of Huron rural organizations with two key contacts for
each organization. This is a great resource for anyone who wants contact information for
grassroots representatives. They are uploaded on the following website:
Huron County - A Guide to Your Farm & Rural Community, 2009 is posted on the County of
Huron website at www.huroncounty.ca

Crop Pest Newsletter

http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/croppest/
Horse News and Views
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/horses/news.html.
Animal Health Newsletter
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/ceptor/news.html
Vegetable Newsletter
www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/hort/news/news_vegview.html
Ontario Berry Grower
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/hort/news/news_berrygrower.html
Pork News and Views Newsletter
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/swine/news.html
Hort Matters Newsletter
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/hort/news/news_hortmatt.html
On Organic
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/organic/news/news-organic.html
Foodland Ontario: http://www.foodland.gov.on.ca/ for some great recipes using Ontario’s
fresh fruits and vegetables.
Nutrient Management Training Course Schedule
For the most up-to-date Nutrient Management Training Course Schedule, simply click on
http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/nm/cert/courses.htm

16 August 2009 Huron & Area E-Bulletin

London Service Ontario Centre – 519-873-4000
Stratford Service Ontario Centre – 519-271-9995.
Owen Sound Service Ontario Centre – 519-519-371-6226
Goderich Service Ontario Centre – 1-800-267-8097
Website www.ServiceOntario.ca
Service Ontario is a one-stop shopping centre for a variety of government services …… register
your business name; purchase hunting and fishing licenses; replace lost or stolen ID; pick up a
free Power of Attorney kit or passport application. For a complete list of services call or visit
today.

LAST WORDS

THREE THINGS IN LIFE

Three things in life that, once gone, never come back:

Time, Words & Opportunity

Three things in life that may never be lost:

Peace, Hope & Honesty

Three things in life that are most valuable:

Love, Self-confidence & Family

Three things in life that are never certain:

Dreams, Success & Fortune

Three things that make a person:

Hard work, Sincerity & Commitment

Three things in life that can destroy a person:

Hate, Pride & Anger

17 August 2009 Huron & Area E-Bulletin