Ethical Wildcrafting Discussion

The Vancouver Permaculture Meetup Group invites you to come and explore

Ethical Wildcrafting

What: Ethical Wild Crafting in Zone 5
When: Thursday, April 15, 2010 7:00 PM
Where: Roundhouse Community Center, 181 Roundhouse Mews Room C

Suggested Donation: CAD5.00 per person

Zoning in permaculture design refers to a method of ensuring that elements are correctly placed. Zones are numbered from 0 to 5, and can be thought of as a series of concentric rings moving out from a center point where human activity and need for attention is most concentrated—to where there is no need for intervention at all. (taken from Wikipedia)

Since this is the beginning of a season where our forest becomes ripe with medicines, its the perfect time to talk about how we can gather them with respect and gratitude. We're happy to host Garliq of the Living Medicine Project, LivingMedicineProject.ca, who will speak about ethical wild crafting, plant identification and more.

Homestead Gardening Course, Starting April 18

"Growing Through the Seasons: A Unique Gardening Course for the Kootenays"
Sunday, April 18, from 10 am to 4 pm, and then the third Sunday of each month thereafter, through October.

After holding successful courses in 2008 and 2009, Frank and Libby Ruljancich are offering the course again this year. Come learn from 34 years of experience how to plant, grow, harvest and store food from a sustainable, organic garden and orchard. This course will span the entire growing season with monthly classes specifically tailored to the time of year.

Participants will learn the art and science of growing organic vegetables, and fruits. This will include soil preparation, variety selection, planting, pruning and training, pest and disease control, harvesting, preserving, and storing food, seed saving and more.

Enrollment is limited and costs $280 for the seven sessions.

For more information or to register, please call, 250-304-2718.

Haida Gwaii Cooperative Brings Dried Chanterelles to Market

The Haida Gwaii Culinary Co-op’s "Rainforest Chanterelles" are high-quality, locally-harvested mushrooms, packaged and shipped in a dried format that utilizes a vacuum microwave dehydration (VMD) process that far surpasses traditional heat drying methods in terms of the taste, texture and volume of the reconstituted mushroom. The dry format also permits the development of a year-round market with quality and availability guaranteed for both retail and wholesale markets.

The Haida Gwaii Culinary Co-operative completed a feasibility study and business plan in 2009 and concluded there is good market potential for a unique, dried wild mushroom product created using the VMD technology. Production has increased to about 1,000 pounds of product per day supporting about 30,000 pounds of local mushroom purchases during the 2009 chanterelle season (approximately September to November). Most sales are currently local, but the group hopes to explore the European markets. The co-op is also planning to adapt the VMD technology to dry other local products such as seaweeds and aromatic herbs. For more information visit the co-op website: www.hgccfoods.ca

Happy Anniversary Ag For News!

Ag For News is celebrating its first anniversary and is proud to be a leading source for agroforestry, farm forestry and non-timber forest resource news.

Thank you for your patronage. Our readership has made Ag For News a top-10 site in the world for agroforestry and NTFR-related news*.

Watch for an expansion of our news and information services in the year to come.


* based on Google page ranks for "agroforestry news" and "non-timber forest resource news" for the week of March 14-20, 2010

Cherry Powder Development Stalled by Technical Hurdles

A group of Okanagan Valley cherry growers has been working to create a new market for cull cherries through the creation of a dried cherry powder, but success has so far alluded them. Cherry plantings and production have increased substantially in the Pacific Northwest in recent years. With this increased production a growing volume of cull cherries is hitting the market. These fruit are typically smaller, blemished or from less desired varieties than those destined for the fresh fruit market.

Without a strong secondary market for utilizing the culls, the fruit is typically discarded. Enter a consortium of growers with the financial support of the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC working to create a value-added product for the health food market. The group conducted a study to determine if dried cherry powder production is economically and technically feasible. Although a market assessment determined there are good opportunities for the finished product, and the group faced "significant technical challenges" in production. The group has formed a company, 'CherryCo', to continue product development efforts.

Birch Products Workshop, March 28

Birch Products: Best Practices, Value Added, & Market Development

Sunday, March 28, 2010, 9:00am - 12:00pm
CNC / UNBC Campus,
Quesnel, BC

Join others interested in agroforestry and agricultural diversification for this 3 hour workshop on birch sap and syrup. Best practices, value added products, and market development will be discussed. New research will presented by Rebecca Robertson, British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and Tom Jopling, Bridge Research and BCIT School of Business. The workshop is open to anyone and is free to attend.

Co-sponsors: Western Economic Diversification Canada and Quesnel Community and Economic Development Corporation. For more information, go to www.quesnelmarket.com (click on “events calendar”) or call 250-992-3522.

Permaculture Training, March 27-28

"Introduction to Permaculture" weekend workshop
Calgary, Alberta
Calgary Area Outdoor Council (1111 Memorial Drive NW)
March 27 and 28, 2010

Course Fee: $250.00 + GST

This workshop will get you started in the principles of permaculture and all its implications. Topics include: permaculture ethics, edible landscaping, energy-efficient house design, soil rehabilitation, water-efficient design, pattern understanding, and much more.

As a student of this course, you are invited to attend an optional hands-on implementation day will will be scheduled at the start of the growing season, where you will come together with other students and implement a food forest on a homeowners property, providing you with hands-on experience using the concepts developed in the course.

Register at www.bigskypermaculture.ca

Birch Tapping Workshop, Fort St. James, April 17

Birch Tapping Workshop
College of New Caledonia,
Fort St. James,

Saturday, April 17, 2010
9:00 am— 4:00 pm

Fee: $95.00

This one-day workshop will provide the skills to tap the birch tree to collect the sap and process it into a syrup. Course fee includes tapping kit and birch tree tapping manual.

A minimum number of 12 is needed to run the workshop.

To register call CNC @ 250-996-7019

Poor Sap Flows Reported for Ontario Maple Tappers

"Maple syrup producers are praying for a return to winter conditions.

An early spring kicked the season into gear on a high note, but too much heat can cut their syrup season short.

The ideal condition for sap flow is between 5C and -5C, but the temperatures are not dipping below freezing at night.

If it doesn't get cold soon, leaf buds will pop out, which spells bad news for syrup producers."

"Todd Leuty, an agroforestry specialist at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, said the sap was flowing poorly in Southern Ontario last week, while producers in eastern Ontario were reporting that they were collecting half the sap they normally do this time of year."

Read the full story and see the video at the North Bay Nugget.

New Maple Sweetener in Development for Diabetics

An Ontario manufacturer is developing low-glycemic index maple products aimed at diabetics and health-conscious consumers.

"In addition to a diabetic-friendly maple syrup, Natunola Health Biosciences Inc. is extracting a natural low-glycemic sweetener known as isomaltulose to compete against artificial sugar replacements."

Read the full article at the Ottawa Sun site.

Australian Scientist Questions Value of Carbon Credits

"A forest scientist says carbon credits have no place in agroforestry."

"...carbon sinks in trees could decrease the value of rural land."

Read the full article at the Australian Broadcasting Corp rural news website.

World Agroforestry Centre Climate Workshops

Workshops for countries participating in the UN Collaborative Program on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (UN-REDD) and the Forest Carbon Partnership Fund (FCPF) were held in Nairobi, Kenya, from 1-3 March 2010, and Hanoi, Vietnam, from 8-10 March 2010.

The workshops were hosted by the World Agroforestry Centre and Alternatives to Slash and Burn Partnership for the Tropical Forest Margins (ASB), both of which are members of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), and the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD).

The workshop in Kenya included 70 participants from 15 countries and the workshop in Vietnam included 55 individuals from seven countries. At both meetings, delegates discussed experiences with REDD pilot projects, information on REDD methodologies, opportunities for funding, and issues at play in the lead up to COP16.

Organic Agriculture Opportunities - Webinar, Mar 15

Capturing Opportunities in Organic Agriculture: Initiatives & Trends

March 15, 2010, 12:00 PM EST

Organic agriculture continues to capture the attention and interest of consumers and producers alike. What are the factors driving this sustained interest and what are the trends in both production and consumption that we should be looking out for?

Capturing opportunities in organic agriculture requires good research and planning like most entrepreneurial endeavours. Fortunately we have some good examples of initiatives in multiple sectors of organic to use as examples.

For more information visit agriwebinar.com

Paralympic Podiums Feature BC Woodlot and Community Forest Wood

As with the recently completed 2010 Winter Olympic Games, the upcoming Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver and Whistler will feature podiums constructed of wood harvested and donated from British Columbia woodlot and community forest organizations.

The Vancouver Paralympic Centre, home of Wheelchair curling events, will have a podium constructed of paper birch, donated by the Wells Grey Community Forest.

The Whistler Medals Plaza, site of victory ceremonies for various Paralympic events, will have a podium constructed of Interior Douglas-fir, donated by the Cariboo Woodlot Association, Blake Family, and Brown-John Family.

Blueberry Research & Extension Conference

North American Blueberry Research and Extension Workers Conference (NABREW)

July 25 to 28, 2010
Kalamazoo, Michigan

NABREW has been a key educational forum for blueberry researchers, extension educators and industry leaders since the first meeting in 1960. Participants that year represented 11 states. The last two conferences have included representatives from 24 states, 5 Canadian provinces, and six additional countries.

The conference will include oral and poster presentations, and conclude with a one day tour of the Michigan blueberry industry.

Sessions will include regional industry reports, breeding and genetics, cultural practices, pest, disease and weed management, organic production, and post-harvest handling.

For more information visit the NABREW website.

Biochar Publication Available

"Biochar has the potential to produce farm-based renewable energy in a climate-friendly manner and provide a valuable soil amendment to enhance crop productivity. If carbon offset markets develop, biochar can provide income for farmers and ranchers who use it to sequester carbon in soil.

This publication reviews current research and issues surrounding the production and use of this emerging biomass energy technology and explores how biochar can contribute to sustainable agriculture. Biochar is the product of turning biomass into gas or oil with the intention of adding it to crop and forest production systems as a soil amendment."

Download your copy at the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service.

Postdoc Research Job - Silvopasture

Postdoctoral Research Associate Position
Center for Agroforestry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO

Silvopastoral Systems

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available with the Center for Agroforestry at the University of Missouri to coordinate an established and innovative silvopasture program focused on understanding forage-tree-livestock interactions in the temperature-humid zone of the United States. Existing research projects include multiple location, systems-level experiments where pine trees, cattle and cool-season forages are used to enhance farm profitability in the lower-Midwest. Publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals and preparation research grants to provide additional program support for silvopasture projects is expected. The Center for Agroforestry has a long history of collaboration between the School of Natural Resources, and the Divisions of Plant and Animal Sciences and with other teams of scientists across campus. The successful candidate will explore collaborative opportunities to conduct interdisciplinary silvopasture research projects. Accessible to the candidate are excellent laboratory and field research facilities (both on and off- campus research centers) within the Missouri Agricultural Experiment station network. Initial appointment will be for one year, but renewable for an additional 2 years contingent upon satisfactory performance and funding.

Required qualifications include a Ph.D. degree in Crop Science, Forestry, Animal Sciences, Agronomy, Plant Sciences, or related field. Preference will be given to candidates with silvopasture experience. Effective oral and written communications skills are required. The ideal candidate should possess a track record of accomplishments demonstrating technical proficiency, independent thinking, and scientific creativity. Candidate is expected to publish peer-reviewed articles, present at scientific meetings, assist in the preparation of grant proposals and provide programmatic support for silvopasture research and technology transfer. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Interested applicants should send (1) a letter of interest (2) resume and (3) names and e-mail addresses of three references to Dr. Shibu Jose, H.E. Garrett Endowed Professor and Director, Center for Agroforestry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, Email: joses@missouri.edu.

Closing date: April 1, 2010 or until a suitable candidate is found.

Postdoc Research Job - Biomass Production

Postdoctoral Research Associate Position
Center for Agroforestry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO

1. Biomass Feedstock Production Systems

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available with the Center for Agroforestry at the University of Missouri to examine the production ecology of biomass feedstock systems that combine woody perennials with annual or non-woody perennial plants. The incumbent will explore above and belowground production, resource (light, water, nutrients) uptake and use, soil carbon storage, and soil microbial dynamics in biomass feedstock production systems established in Missouri and elsewhere in the Midwest. Travel to study sites, including overnight stay will be required. Initial appointment will be for one year, but renewable for an additional year contingent upon satisfactory performance and funding.

Required qualifications include a Ph.D. in forest ecology/ecophysiology/soils with good oral and written communication skills as evidenced through peer-reviewed publications and presentations. Experience in the use of stable isotope techniques, physiological instrumentation (infrared gas analyzers, sap flow sensors etc.), and knowledge in soil and plant chemical analyses are desirable. The ideal candidate should possess a track record of accomplishments demonstrating technical proficiency, independent thinking, and scientific creativity. Candidate is expected to publish peer-reviewed articles, present at scientific meetings and prepare grant proposals. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Interested applicants should send (1) a letter of interest (2) resume and (3) names and e-mail addresses of three references to Dr. Shibu Jose, H.E. Garrett Endowed Professor and Director, Center for Agroforestry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, Email: joses@missouri.edu.

Closing date: April 1, 2010 or until a suitable candidate is found.

Organic Blueberry Production Webinar, Mar 9

Title: Organic Blueberry Production
Date: Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:15 PM EST

Managing blueberries organically requires additional production considerations, but may offer potential marketing opportunities. Join eOrganic presenters Dr. Bernadine Strik and graduate student, Handell Larco, from the Department of Horticulture at Oregon State University, and Dr. David Bryla, from the USDA-ARS, Hort Crops Research Lab in Corvallis, Oregon to learn about how the results of an organic blueberry production systems research study have provided insight on best planting methods, fertilization, irrigation, weed management, and economic considerations.

For more information visit: http://www.extension.org/article/26115

To register visit: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/584854193

BC Forecasts Forest Sector Turnaround

The Province of British Columbia, in it's recently released budget projections and the Ministry of Forests and Range service plan, is forecasting a turnaround in forest products markets and increased revenues.

Lumber prices averaged $168 USD / 1000 boardfeet in 2009, down 25% over 2008 levels. The Province is estimating an average price of $200 USD in 2010, rising to $300 USD by 2013 with improvement in the US economy, Canada's largest lumber export market.

Forestry revenue to the Province has dropped sharply in recent years. In 2008/09, $558 million forestry-related tax was collected by the Crown, down 49% from 2007/08 levels. This is estimated to decline to $345 million for 2009/10, but will increase by $140 million in 2010/11 with improving forest product markets.

World Forestry Institute 2010 International Fellowship

The World Forestry Institute (WFI) fellowship program brings together forestry and forest products professionals from around the world. There are three main components to the program including conducting a research project, networking and educational outreach. The program is open to applicants from any country.

For more information please visit the WFI website.

Reminder: GAP Training, March 9 -10

Tuesday, March 9 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; and,
Wednesday, March 10, from 9:00 to 5:00 pm
Port Alberni, BC

Training will be conducted by Connie Kehler of the Canadian Herb, Spice and Natural Health Products Coalition and is hosted by First Nations Wildcrafters, BC. The Training Sessions will be held at the Tseshaht First Nations Band Office on Highway 4 in Port Alberni.

The session on Tuesday, March 9 will provide a primary focus on wild harvested foods and production and the session on Wednesday March 10 will include the BC On-Farm Food Safety Program that includes agriculture, greenhouse, community garden and other farm food production systems and practices.

Sessions are free and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For more information and/or to register please contact Keith Hunter with
First Nations Wildcrafters, BC: FirstNationsWildcrafters@shaw.ca

Funding for Canadian Farm Interns

The Career Focus Program aims to create employment opportunities for recent graduates in agriculture, agri-food, agri-food science and veterinary medicine. By providing employers with funding towards hiring an intern in the agriculture and agri-food field, the next generation of workers gain meaningful work experience that can be used to pursue long-term employment related to their field of study.

Eligible interns must:

. Be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant

. Be 30 years old or younger

. Have studied biology, agriculture, veterinary sciences or applied technology

. Have graduated from a university, college, CEGEP or provincial institution within the last three years

Eligible employers:
. Organizations offering internships that provide agriculture career-related work experiences in Canada

. Industry, not-for-profit organizations, provincial and municipal governments, associations, boards, councils and universities

For more information or to obtain a project proposal form visit:
www.agr.gc.ca/careerfocus

or call: 1-866-452-5558

or Email: mailto:careerfocus@agr.gc.ca