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Resources (82)
Floods (1)

Essential guide to flood planning and preparation

As of February 2, 2019 - 05:32, this link is reporting 404 - Not Found.
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Information from the UK about coping with floods.

Save Energy (5)

Green Communities

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Everyone want to go green. But getting there isn’t always easy. That’s where we come in. Green Communities Canada is a national association of community organizations working with homeowners, businesses, governments and communities to reduce our impact on the environment.

House Energy

As of February 7, 2019 - 07:35, this link is reporting 302 - Found.
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Our homes (and other buildings) consume a prodigious amount of energy. America’s buildings consume more than 70% of the electricity and around 35% of the natural gas used in the country. And they are the largest single contributor to CO2 and other harmful gas emissions.House Energy show ays to reduce these costs and emissions.

Hydro One save energy

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For an average 2000 sq ft Canadian home, the average monthly electrical bill $142 (based on household average monthly usage of 1000Kw) (This does not including electrically heated homes). Ontario Energy Board prices.

The average annual heating cost  with natural gas is $1100/year; with oil $3700/year ; with propane $4200/yearand  with an electric furnace or baseboard $3300/year.

You can monitor your electricity usage with a plug load monitor. Inexpensive plug in monitor to find out individual device electrical use

Buy energy efficient appliances -check the Energy Star rating.

For lighting use compact fluorescent- LED (they cost more but lasts a long time)  

How about a solar clothes dryer? – use a clothesline and do laundry in cold water.

Ceiling fans to circulate air.

Time of use: depending on time of year, electricity costs are lower at certain times of the day. These times change twice a year.

Keeping the heat in

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Natural Resources Canada's Office of Energy Efficiency offers this guide to educate on basic principles of building science and to provide guidance in home retrofit projects such as insulation and air sealing improvements. First published in the 1970's and last updated in 2012, the publication is currently only available in a PDF format.

 

Ontario Energy Board

As of February 4, 2019 - 06:59, this link is reporting 302 - Found.
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The Ontario Energy Board (OEB) regulates the province's electricity and natural gas sectors in the public interest.

The Board envisions a viable and efficient energy sector with informed consumers, and works towards this vision through regulation that is effective, fair and transparent.

One can get information about the pricing of hydro and natural gas,

Forest, Trees and Wood (15)

Workplace Safety NorthChain Saw Courses

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Workplace Safety North continues to offer chainsaw training.  Brian Lawrence's  district extends from Belleville to Toronto and north through Algonquin Park. He is more than willing to go anywhere within my district to provide training if there is a minimum of six participants.

They offer two types of chainsaw training: one for loggers and the other for non-loggers. The difference is that the logger program doesn’t include a hands-on (bush) component. For the non-loggers, we recommend a twoday program that consists of both classroom and bush sessions.

Please feel free to contact me if there are any other questions that arise. 

Brian Lawrence

Consultant-Trainer

WORKPLACE SAFETY NORTH

T 888-730-7821 ext. 307 

M 613-334-1025

F 613-332-0002

insertnamehereatworkplacesafetynorth.ca

Bancroft Area Forest Industry Association

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The Bancroft Area Forest Industry Association (BAFIA) members are typically small, family owned and operated forest practitioners ranging from loggers, sawmill operators, forest technicians, woodlot owners and managers. The geographic area of the Association and the majority of its members are defined as those lands that fall between Madoc north to Whitney and Denbigh west to Apsley in the province of Ontario, Canada.

Our mission statement is “to promote and sustain the forest industry in the Bancroft area”. We believe that sustainable forestry practices are necessary in this day and age. It is both good for the environment and business.

As a group we gather every month to voice our concerns and develop action plans to confront the issues facing our industry today.

 

Christmas Tree Farmers of Ontario

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The Christmas Tree Farmers of Ontario (CTFO) offers valuable information for both tree growers and consumers.  The CTFO is a non-profit organization funded by farmers in the business of growing Christmas trees as a cash crop.  Our aim is "to provide, through co-operative effort and the exchange of experience, practical solutions for many of the problems concerning the production, marketing and retailing of Ontario grown Christmas trees." 

Forestinfo

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Forestinfo.org is your source for environmental information which is understandable, unbiased, accurate, and available in a wide variety of formats. We strive to facilitate informed decisions regarding forestry-related issues.

 

International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)

As of January 26, 2019 - 18:58, this link is reporting 404 - Not Found.
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The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) enjoys a rich heritage as a scientific and educational organization with a primary mission to disseminate information and knowledge in the care and preservation of trees. The Ontario Chapter sits consistently at 600-700 members, while the international membership is over 20,000, divided into almost 50 chapters and associate organizations worldwide – the world's largest such organization. There are currently over 500 ISA Certified Arborists in Ontario and more than 25,000 worldwide.

Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program

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How it works

Through the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (MFTIP), landowners who get their property classified as ‘Managed Forest’ pay 25% of the municipal tax rate set for residential properties.To participate, you must prepare and follow a 10-year Managed Forest Plan that details how you will manage your forest property responsibly. The plan must be approved by a Managed Forest Plan Approver. These individuals are independent resource management consultants, certified by, but not employed by, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. You also need to submit a 5-year progress report and update your management plan every 10 years to stay in the program.

Ontario Forest Industries Association

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We all want forest products that are sourced using sustainable forest management. Ontario's forest practices are governed by a world-class, platinum standard regulatory framework. Together, we are dedicated to tackling climate change and securing a viable future for Ontario's forest products sector. When you buy Ontario made forest products, your positive environmental choice is supporting over 200,000 Ontario working families.

Ontario Maple Syrup Producers Association Quinte Chapter

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The Ontario Maple Syrup Producers Association (OMSPA) was formed in 1966. Over 400 Ontario producers are active in 11 district or local organizations.

Ontario Seed Processing Plant, Angus

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Since its establishment in 1923, the Ontario Tree Seed Facility has played a key role in the protection of Ontario’s rich natural heritage. The facility collects seed from about 50 different native species and supplies smaller nursery operations, large forestry companies and the public. It also maintains a seed bank of native tree species from across the province and makes seed available for reforestation. In this way, the plant contributes to Ontario’s commitment to conserving biological diversity.

 

Ontario Wood

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Ontario Wood - Look for the leaf

When you choose Ontario Wood, you’re not just making the best choice for building a deck, installing a new floor, or renovating your kitchen; you’re making the best choice for all of us. That’s because our forest industry provides thousands of jobs and sustains hundreds of communities across our province. On top of that, Ontario Wood products are high-quality and cost-competitive and enjoy an excellent reputation around the world. 

 

“Ontario Wood” is an initiative to help you identify and purchase locally made Ontario Wood products. Whether you are a consumer, builder, designer or architect, look for the leaf to be sure it’s Ontario Wood.

 

Ontario Woodlot Association

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The Ontario Woodlot Association (OWA) is a not-for-profit grassroots organization governed by an elected, volunteer board of directors. Our members own and manage woodlots throughout the province and include individuals and organizations that support our goals. We believe that private landowners have a key role to play to ensure that sustainably managed forests remain a part of Ontario’s future. The Ontario Woodlot Association has links to a wide variety of information and resources.

The Heritage Tree Foundation of Canada

As of January 29, 2019 - 02:39, this link is reporting 404 - Not Found.
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Trees are a distinct part of habitat biodiversity. They sustain vibrant ecosystems that support wildlife populations and contribute significantly to bird, animal, plant, and insect diversity.

The Working Forest

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The Working Forest newspaper was established by Judy Skidmore in November 1997 to provide up to date news and information for and about the Canadian forest industry.

Trees Ontario

As of January 26, 2019 - 18:58, this link is reporting 302 - Found.
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During the 1980's up to 30 million trees a year were planted on rural privately owned properties across Ontario. In the late 1990's planting levels dropped to as low as two million trees per year. Experts tell us that in order to achieve 30 per cent forest cover and a healthy ecosystem we need to plant over a billion more trees. Trees Ontario is now part of Forest Ontario, a not-for-profit organization that requires the financial support of individuals and organizations. The 50 Million Trees project is supported by the Province of Ontario.

Wood WORKS

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Wood Works is a national campaign to increase the use of wood in commercial, industrial and institutional construction. In North America the market for wood is valued at US$20 Billion.

Stewardship (15)

A Guide to Stewardship Planning of Natural Areas

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This guide provides a framework for creating a stewardship plan on rural properties. It uses a 20-year planning horizon and will help you develop a list of stewardship activities you can work on over the first 10 years of your plan. A plan can be prepared for any size of property. The complexity of the plan will increase with the size and diversity of the property.

Baptiste Lake Association

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The Baptiste Lake Association, a voluntary group of members, is committed to representing the interests of the residents of the Baptiste Lake area. The Association will work closely with these residents as well as all levels of government to conserve and enhance the environment of the lake and its surrounding area. The initial association was founded in 1949. The Mission is to be achieved through the observance of the following goals and objectives: To monitor water levels and quality on an ongoing basis. To monitor development around the lake and to act on changes in land use that adversely affect the lake. To promote water and boating safety. To inform lake residents about official plans, by-laws and building codes affecting their property. To inform lake residents about government action which affects them. To educate lake residents and others about the environmental impact of their actions. To maintain membership in FOCA, BACA and other non-profit organizations dedicated to the cause of conservation. To promote a sense of community among the lake residents through the support of social events. To promote fire safety and prevention. To promote, maintain and support links with the surrounding community.

Bay of Quinte Remedial Action Plan

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Working Together to Restore Water Quality The Bay of Quinte Remedial Action Plan emphasizes an ecosystem approach to restoring and protecting the Bay. This approach recognizes the complex interrelationships between water, land, air, and all living things - including people, and seeks cost-effective actions to restore, protect and sustain water quality. The Bay of Quinte is one of the most picturesque bodies of water in Lake Ontario. Its shoreline stretches in a Z-shape from Trenton to Bath for almost 100 kilometers. The Bay’s watershed is the largest in Southern Ontario, over 18,000 square kilometers, and includes lands drained by the Trent, Moira, and Napanee rivers and a host of smaller tributaries. The Problems In 1986, the International Joint Commission (a Canadian-American Great Lakes watchdog) identified the Bay of Quinte as one of 43 Great Lakes “Areas of Concern”…a pollution hot-spot. Poor stewardship of the land as well as industrial, agricultural, municipal and household practices resulted in the past pollution problems including a loss of the diversity of plant and animal life, their habitats (especially wetlands) and an increasing risk to human health. A mix of toxic contaminants, bacterial and nutrient overloads in the Bay led to great imbalances in the aquatic ecosystem.

Ducks Unlimited Canada

As of February 15, 2019 - 08:19, this link is reporting 403 - Forbidden.
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Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) has been committed to wetland conservation for more than 70 years. Despite this, wetland loss continues across Canada. Up to 70 per cent of wetlands have disappeared in settled areas of the country.

Invading species

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Invading species are one of the greatest threats to the biodiversity of Ontario’s waters and woodlands. Originating from other regions of the world, and in the absence of their natural predators or controls, invading species can have devastating effects on native species, habitats and ecosystems.

Managing hay and pasture to benefit grassland birds.

As of February 15, 2019 - 08:19, this link is reporting 404 - Not Found.
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Many of Ontario’s birds are becoming scarcer, and the species that depend on grasslands for their habitat are at special risk.

Populations of Bobolinks, for example, have declined by 88% over the past 40 years. These grassland species depend on hay and pasture fields, together with remnants of native prairies and alvars.

Nature In Deed

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Nature in Deed is a portal to a wide range of information and resources about living in a rural area. You can find links to people and resource agencies who can provide information on just about any property related question you may have.

Nature Stuff

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Nature Stuff tours and things - a fascinating website run by local naturalist and teacher Terry Sprague.

 

Ontario Beekeepers" Association

As of January 31, 2019 - 04:04, this link is reporting 302 - Found.
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Although we beekeepers are an independent lot, we also know that we do best when we can share our experiences and learn from others. Following are some ways to connect and become part of the beekeeping community. 

 

Ontario Natural Heritage Information Centre

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Natural Heritage Information Centre staff members conduct research and surveys in the field for priority species and areas across Ontario. The centre collects, reviews, manages and distributes information for:

  • species of conservation concern
  • rare and exemplary plant communities
  • wildlife concentration areas
  • natural areas

Ontario Nature

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Ontario Nature protects wild species and wild spaces through conservation, education and public engagement. Ontario Nature is a charitable organization representing more than 30,000 members and supporters and 140 member groups across Ontario. Since it was established as the Federation of Ontario Naturalists in 1931, Ontario Nature has been a champion for nature in Ontario.

Ontario's Invading Species Awareness Program

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Invading species are one of the greatest threats to the biodiversity of Ontario’s waters and woodlands. Originating from other regions of the world, and in the absence of their natural predators or controls, invading species can have devastating effects on native species, habitats and ecosystems.

Pollination Canada

As of February 22, 2019 - 09:38, this link is reporting 302 - Found.
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Did you know about bees and butterflies, but did you know that there are over 1000 species of pollinating insects in Canada? Together they are an indispensable natural resource, and their daily work is essential for over a billion dollars of apples, pears, cucumbers, melons, berries, and many other kinds of Canadian farm produce. These beneficial insects are under pressure from loss of habitat, loss of food sources, disease, and pesticides. As insect populations are threatened, so are the fruit and vegetable produce, and the wild ecosystems that depend on these pollinators.

 

Protecting species at risk

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We live in a province with over 30,000 species of plants and animals. Unfortunately, more than 200 of these species are in trouble. That is why Ontario passed some of the toughest legislation on species at risk in North America. So that future generations can enjoy the wildlife we do today.

What are photosynthesis and respiration?

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Environmental scientists recognize that the fundamental source of energy for most life on earth is the sun. Through photosynthesis, plants capture the light and convert it into chemical potential energy. Plants then store the potential energy in the form of biomass (biological matter that fuels nearly every animal on earth).

Farm Safety (3)

Canadian Farm Safety Association

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The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) is a national non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and safety of farmers, their families and workers.  CASA works collaboratively with agricultural safety and health specialists and producers in all provinces and territories to promote health and safety on Canadian farms and ranches. CASA provides national leadership and direction for agricultural health and safety, to reduce injuries and lessen their negative impact on farmers, their families and workers.  CASA’s long term objective is to ensure that no one is hurt farming.

West Nile Virus and Lyme diseases

As of February 16, 2019 - 08:48, this link is reporting 503 - Service Unavailable.
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West Nile Virus is a disease that was first isolated in 1937 in the West Nile region of Uganda and is transmitted to people by infected mosquitoes. The majority of infected individuals have mild or no symptoms. However, the elderly and those with certain chronic medical problems including problems with their immune systems can become ill. West Nile Virus can cause an inflammation of the brain known as encephalitis.

Lyme disease is caused by the corkscrew shaped bacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi. In Ontario, this bacteria is spread by the bite of infected blacklegged ticks (commonly called deer ticks). Blacklegged ticks are the only type of tick in Ontario that can consistently transmit Lyme disease. The blacklegged tick can be found sporadically throughout Ontario.

Workplace Safety North

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Workplace Safety North provides occupational health and safety resources, training, ergonomic and industrial hygiene support and consulting for Ontario’s forestry industries. 

 
Geology and Soils (2)

Agricultural composting basics

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Composting is the biological decomposition of organic materials by microorganisms under controlled, aerobic conditions to a relatively stable humus-like material called compost. Composting can happen in many different ways using a variety of materials, methods, equipment, and scales of operation.

Soil Survey of Hastings County

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You can access the Soil Survey maps for Hastings County and the report.

Maps and Aerial Photography (1)

Make a Map: Natural Heritage Areas

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The Ministry of Natural Resources has a new make a map application for you to use. You can use it to make custom maps for areas across Ontario.The Make a Map: Natural Heritage Areas application displays some of the available natural heritage information that the MNR maintains. All of theinformation included in this application is available digitally through Land Information Ontario for those who have GIS capabilities. Data sharing agreements may be required to obtain the data.

Alternative energy (7)

A Guide to Residential Wood Heating

As of February 20, 2019 - 09:13, this link is reporting 404 - Not Found.
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If you heat with wood now or are considering the use of wood fuel for home heating, this book is for you.

Air source heat pumps

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Air Source Heat Pumps - extract latent ‘heat’ from large volume of air - newer most efficient units are almost as efficient as Ground Source Heat Pumps at a fraction of the cost. One can save 25 to 50% energy cost over electricity, oil, and propane.

Alternative heating systems

As of February 4, 2019 - 06:59, this link is reporting 302 - Found.
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Alternative Heating Solutions for the 21st century and beyond

An information hub for alternative heating systems such as passive and active solar designs, low-emission stoves and geothermal systems.

 

Buying firewood?

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In Canada, firewood is usually sold at the retail level in the following two ways:

  • In bulk (larger quantities): Most bulk firewood (split or whole roundwood) is sold by stacked volume. The declaration and accuracy of the delivered quantity are regulated by the Weights and Measures Act and Regulations, which are administered by Measurement Canada.
  • In bags or boxes (smaller quantities): Firewood is also sold at retail in bags or boxes by stacked volume expressed in cubic decimetres (dm3). Accuracy and labelling requirements for packaged firewood are found in the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act and Regulations, which are administered by the Competition Bureau.

Fuelwood, the environment and the 21st century

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Ideal stove is a Kochel or masonry oven and it creates more heat from less wood. A traditional woodstove is 30-50% efficient. Newer, cleaner burning stoves have a secondary burner and will burn 85% clean burn with less soot.For those really adventurous check out Rocket Mass Heaters- Super efficient-  http://www.rocketmassheater.ca/

Cords used- Depends on size of home, insulation levels, home configuration, temperature of home,  efficiency of system- average-5-10 bush cord of dry wood.

Species used- Hardwoods best hickory, oak, maple, elm or longer list from harder to softer - ironwood, beech, ash, red elm, red maple, tamarack, white birch, Manitoba maple, red alder, hemlock, poplar, pine, basswood, spruce, and balsam.

In the shoulder seasons, spring and fall, when not a lot of heat required the softer woods are fine

http://www.woodheat.org/good-firewood.html

Wood Varies widely depending on if you get your own wood- free except for labour and equipment. Purchase wood is  usually $200 to $300/bush cord. Tandem load of logs is generally the lowest cost if you need to purchase.

Seasoning of wood until it is dry usually at least one year. Some wood takes longer to dry than others i.e. oak. Other woods like ash dry in a very short time.

Fuel wood, the environment and  the 21st Century

Ground source and water source heat pumps

As of February 4, 2019 - 06:59, this link is reporting 404 - Not Found.
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Ground source heat pumps  extract latent heat from ground. They need a large area to dig 100-300 ft. trenches. It is expensive to install, but very efficient. Ground source heat pumps are not very good for very large homes or home with high heating requirements.

Water source heat pump is the same as a ground source heat pump but even more efficient. One needs a body of water ideally at least 8 ft. deep such as a large pond or lake, river or large creek.

Cost saving comparisons between heat pumps and electricity.

Information about burning wood, Northern Hardwood

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Although Northern Hardwood is out of this region they have a lot of useful information about buring wood on their website.

Septic systems (1)

Septic Smart Understanding you septic system

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Learn about how your septic sysem works and how to care  for it with four short videos.

Water and Wells (4)

Care for your well

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As a well owner, you want your water to be clean, clear and safe for your family to drink. Your water may look clean and clear, but how can you be confident that it is safe?  

While regular testing is important, you can prevent problems and protect the quality of your well water through proper maintenance.

Water Supply Wells: Requirements and Best Practise

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This manual provides a clear and concise discussion of Regulation 903 as amended under the Ontario Water Resources Act R.R.O. 1990 (The Wells Regulation). It also provides best management practices and recommended techniques that help a person constructing a well to go beyond the minimum standards set by the Wells Regulation and better protect and minimize adverse impacts to our environment.

 
 

Well Regualtions - Well Disinfection (technical bulletin)

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The purpose of this technical bulletin is to summarize the information on well disinfection found in the Water Supply Wells – Requirements and Best Management Practices manual published by the Ministry of the Environment, December 2009. This technical bulletin is one in a series of 11 on well issues created for a person who is considering a new water supply well or who currently owns a water supply well.

Well Regulations

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The Ontario Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has a number of regulations about plugging and seal old wells, siting and building new ones, and such things as repair of existing wells.

Sustainable Agriculture (27)

Ecological Farmers of Ontario

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The Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario was established in 1979 with the purpose: To develop and provide programs promoting the practice and advancement of ecological agriculture which maintains and enhances the health of the soil, water, crops, livestock and the diversity of the environment. To educate and increase the public’s understanding of ecological agricultural methods like soil tillage, green manures, cover crops, composting, crop rotations, soil erosion control, and conservation practices by offering courses, seminars, conferences, farm tours, meetings, and publishing a newsletter and by collecting, researching, and disseminating information on this topic to the general public. To bring together people who are concerned about ecological agriculture so they can share experiences, support each other and create community. Activities: Conferences, Courses and workshops on ecological farming methods Farm tours, Newsletters, Farm consulting, Seed and stock exchange, Information source for Community Shared Agriculture and Good Fellowship.

 

Advantage Good Agricultural Practices

As of February 22, 2019 - 09:38, this link is reporting 404 - Not Found.
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Advantage Good Agricultural Practices is a voluntary program for both crop and livestock farms. It takes a whole farm approach to food safety. That means you can apply the practices to any farm, any size, no matter what production methods or products you produce. If you have a multi-commodity farm, you can follow the Advantage program using one manual and keep one set of records

Beef Farmers of Ontario

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Beef Farmers of Ontario formerly, The Ontario Cattlemen’s Association, is a grassroots organization that provides leadership to cattlemen from all sectors of the industry. The organization promotes Ontario beef cattle production through policy planning, government lobbying, industry development programs, research, and communications along with the promotion and advertisement of beef. Beef Farmers of Ontario provides services to cattlemen in domestic and export market development and market pricing co-ordination and reporting

Canadian Biotechnology Action Network

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Mission: To promote food sovereignty and democratic decision-making on science and technology issues in order to protect the integrity of the environment, health, food, and the livelihoods of people in Canada and around the world by facilitating, informing and organizing civil society action, researching, and providing information to government for policy development.

 
 

Canadian Food Inspection Agency

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Food safety is the CFIA’s top priority. The CFIA, along with many federal, provincial and municipal organizations, is working to improve the overall health of Canadians. The CFIA develops and delivers programs and services designed to protect Canadians from preventable food safety hazards, to ensure that food safety emergencies are effectively managed, and that the public is aware of, and contributes to food safety.

 

Canadian Organic Growers

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Canadian Organic Growers Inc. is Canada’s national membership-based education and networking organization representing organic farmers, gardeners, consumers and supporters in all provinces and territories. You do not need to be an organic farmer or an organic gardener to be a COG member.

 

Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario

As of February 20, 2019 - 09:13, this link is reporting 302 - Found.
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The CFFO is an organization with the dual purpose of:enabling farmers to work out their Christian faith in their vocation as citizens, and to develop policy applications of the Christian faith to agriculture. The CFFO's main service or "products" are: Public Policy Development and Education/Communication.

 

Dairy Farmers of Ontario

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The marketing group for the largest sector of Ontario agriculture, proudly owned and operated by Ontario's Dairy Farmers.

Farm Start

As of February 11, 2019 - 07:55, this link is reporting 500 - Internal Server Error.
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The Farm Start mission is to facilitate, support and encourage a new generation of farmers to develop economically viable, locally based, and ecological agricultural enterprises. FarmStart is a not-for-profit organization working toward increasing the presence of young and new farmers, operating their own farm enterprises, within the agriculture community. By combining the facilitation of unique programs and resources, building partnerships and networks, supporting community capacity and linking farmers with existing programs and resources administered by other organizations, our goals are to: Support a new generation of farmers; Promote sustainable business models; Coordinate and communicate innovative, new and local market research; Develop farm facilities, resources and linkages important to new and young farmers; Develop effective land tenure and stewardship arrangements.

 

Farms at Work

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Farms At Work’s mission is to promote healthy and active farmlands within the region of east central Ontario.

Field Crop news

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Field Crop News” is an archive of information dedicated to the production of over 8.5 million acres of field crops in Ontario  and a forum for which producers, researchers and industry personnel can share information and ideas.

Hastings County Farm Show and Plowing Match

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The Hastings County Farm Show and Plowing Match  is the biggest county agricultural show in Ontario and is a great opportunity for farming community to get together and the show case the diversity of agriculture in Hastings County. You are invited to come and see what more than 250 exhibitors have to offer with their latest in agricultural equipment and services, as well as the plowing competitions, the antique display, the woodlot display and all the other great activities that the show is well known for.

 

Heirloom Seed Sanctuary

As of January 31, 2019 - 04:04, this link is reporting 302 - Found.
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The Sisters of Providence in Kingston have an heirloom seed sanctuary. An heirloom seed is seed treasured by people who love the names, history, flavour, fragrance and feel of what plants share with them. Saved seeds often become best friends, part of the family. The purpose is to preserve open-pollinated seed so that it may be saved; and to grow, harvest, sort and store seed as organically as possible at Heathfield.

 

 

Indian Agriculture Program of Ontario

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Indian Agricultural Program of Ontario (IAPO) is a non-profit Ontario corporation with Letters Patent issued in June 1984. IAPO is owned by Status Indian farmers in Ontario. The board of directors, who are Status Indian farmers, represent various farming districts across Ontario.

National Farmers Union in Ontario

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The National Farmers Union in Ontario promotes policies that will revitalize agriculture in Ontario by strengthening family farms. On local, national and international levels, the NFU advocates alternative structures and government policies that resist corporate control of food. With farmers and consumers, NFU works to encourage vibrant rural communities, environmentally sustainable practices and the production of safe, wholesome food.

 

Ontario Agri-Food Education

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Ontario Agri-Food Education Inc. (OAFE) is a registered charity incorporated under the Agricultural and Horticultural Organizations Act of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food. OAFE was created in 1991 with the mission of building awareness and understanding of the importance of an agriculture and food system.

 

Ontario Farmland Trust

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The Ontario Farmland Trust is a non-government, non-profit, charitable organization that has been established to work with farmers, rural communities and other interested parties to promote the protection of farmland in the province of Ontario

 

Ontario Federation of Agriculture

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The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is a farmer-lead dynamic provincial lobby which works to represent the interests of its farm members to government. As the largest, voluntary general farm organization in the country, OFA has more than 38,000 members, as well as 32 organizational members and affiliates representing most agricultural commodity groups. Today the OFA continues to work hard to ensure that all levels of government hear Ontario farmers’ concerns. With 52 County and regional federations providing strong, local leadership, and 32 organizational members and affiliates the OFA is leading the way into the new millennium.

 

 

Ontario Horticultural Association

As of February 20, 2019 - 09:13, this link is reporting 302 - Found.
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The Ontario Horticultural Association is a volunteer, charitable organization whose mission is to provide leadership and assist in the promotion of education and interest in all areas of horticulture and related environmental issues in Ontario, through an expanding network of horticultural societies dedicated to the beautification of their communities. 

Local Horticultural Societies in this area are in District 3.

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

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VisionThriving rural Ontario, agriculture, and food sectors.

MissionA catalyst for transforming our agriculture and food sectors and rural communities for a healthy Ontario.

Check out Best Management Practices 

Ontario Soil and Crop Association

As of February 9, 2019 - 07:48, this link is reporting 403 - Forbidden.
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Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association: To communicate and facilitate responsible, economic management of soil, water, air and crops. The Environmental Farm Plan (EFP), now in its third edition, continues to be popular with the Ontario agricultural community. The new Grow your Farm Profits helps farmers plan their businesses.

 

Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada

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The Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada (OACC) conducts organic farming research and provides knowledge transfer and extension services for organic farmers.

The OACC is committed to education by way of web courses in organic agriculture, organic farming methods, organic field crops, organic pest and weed management, organic livestock production, composting and transition to organic farming.

Organic Council of Ontario

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The Organic Council / Le Conseil Biologique de l’Ontario is a membership-based non-profit association representing the organic sector in Ontario at a provincial and national level. The Organic Council of Ontario represents all groups (including producers, processors, marketers, retailers, restaurants, suppliers, distributors, certifiers and others), providing leadership and supporting the continued growth of the Ontario organic sector.

Renewable Fibre Technology

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Stemergy renewable bio-fibre was formed in 1994 (under the name Hempline Inc.) and in that same year became the first company in North America since the 1940’s to grow industrial hemp bio-fibre for research.

Resource Efficient Agricultural Production (REAP)

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A Research, Consulting and International Development Organization creating ecological solutions for sustainable food, fibre and energy.

 

SPIN stands for S-mall P-lot IN-tensive

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SPIN-Farming is a non-technical, easy-to-learn and inexpensive-to-implement vegetable farming system that makes it possible to earn significant income from land bases under an acre in size. Whether you are new to farming, or want to farm in a new way, SPIN can work for you because:

  • Its precise revenue targeting formulas and organic-based techniques make it possible to gross $50,000+ from a half- acre.
  • You don't need to own land. You can affordably rent or barter a small piece of land adequate in size for SPIN-Farming production.
  • It works in either the city, country or small town.
  • It fits into any lifestyle or life cycle.

SPIN is being practiced by first generation farmers because it removes the two big barriers to entry - land and capital - as well as by established farmers who want to diversify or downsize, as well as by part-time hobby farmers.

 

The Garlic News

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The Garlic News comes out four times a year, the issues being planned to reach you in time for the four garlic seasons: planting; winter planning; spring tasks, and the summer harvest. Contact us by completing the information on the Contact Link or fill out the printer friendly Membership & Subscription Form, print and send it with your cheque or money order today.

Sustainable Buildings (1)

Low impact woodland home

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This low impact house was built for a family in Wales out of wood and straw bales, It by two men with help from passers by and visiting friends. Four months after starting the family moved in and was cosy. They estimate 1000-1500 man hours and £3000 put in to this point. Not really so much in house buying terms (roughly £60/sq m excluding labour).

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