Yard Tour at Gary Martens

We were treated to a fascinating evening of “ag-talk” and hospitality at Gary & Patricia Martens’ Kleefeld farm on September 9th. Highlights included an overview of the retired U of M professor's thriving garden, discussion about the role of livestock in sustainable farming, and an exchange of our own experiences with growing our own food. It was a great opportunity for amateurs and seasoned agronomists to benefit from Gary's hands-on knowledge. A big thank you to Pat & Gary for their hospitality!

Update on Monday, September 22, 2014 at 9:56PM by RHiebert

GMO presentation July 24

Our hosting of Dr. Vrain caught the attention of CropLife Canada. Their letter together with my response is our Carillon Column for this week.

Both Thierry Vrain have also responded. Their responses and some other information is on our FOOD page. Click on FOOD in the left column.

Presentation: Genetically Engineered Foods and Human Health

Organic lawn care workshop report

Georgia and Michael from the Organic Lawn Care Programme of the Manitoba Eco-Network gave us a dynamic and thorough presentation! We learnt about how chemicals widely used on our lawn can be risky for our health, but also how we can maintain lawns without it with proper mowing and watering habits, aeration, top dressing, overseeding, raking and weeding techniques. 

They also covered alternatives to lawns such as: Vegetable garden, Rock/Xeriscape gardens, Shrubs and trees, Perennial gardens and Native ground covers. If you want to know more about organic lawn care, check this web page: http://www.mbeconetwork.org/organic-lawn-care/techniques

All About Hemp

Our treat Wednesday evening, January 22, was to become informed about the uses, current and potential, of industrial hemp. In a world where we are becoming increasingly dependent on synthetic products for nutrition, fabric, and building materials, hemp is obviously a seriously underrated natural, locally grown crop. Anndrea Hermann, our presenter is very passionate and well informed about this product. For more information about this product, check out these links:

• Manitoba Harvest On line hemp food retailer, but also supplier to other retail outlets.
• Notiva US hemp nutraceutical supplier, also ships to Canada
• Dr. Bronner for soaps and cosmetics
• Hemporium, a clothing outet at The Forks
• Hemp Technologies Wide ranging web site, but mostly building technology
• Anndrea Hermann anndrea4hemp@gmail.com. Anndrea weldomes direct contacts

Update on Monday, January 27, 2014 at 11:03AM by RHiebert