Cover Crops & the Microbial Link
2026-03-26 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Vancouver) | Online
Join the BC Institute of Agrologists for a thought-provoking session that connects two often-separate worlds: the soil microbiome and the human gut microbiome. This webinar explores how cover crops support vibrant soil microbial ecosystems—and why that matters not just for nutrient-dense crops, but for biological health outcomes in humans and livestock.
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Expert-Level Electric Fencing Masterclass
2026-03-14 - 2026-03-15 | Lilloet, Lilloet, British Columbia, Canada
For experienced farmers, ranchers, contractors and professionals looking to advance their knowledge of electric fencing systems, SSMPA is organizing a free two-day masterclass. Fill out the form to see if this workshop is right for you—qualified participants will receive a registration link.
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How and Why to Grow a Grassland Set-Aside
2026-03-13 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Vancouver) | Online
Learn how grassland set-asides can be incorporated into your crop rotation to rest and rebuild fields.

This farmer-focused webinar will introduce the Grassland Set-aside program with support from Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust (DFWT) staff and local farmers.
Hear first-hand from potato farmer Bill Zylmans and potato & blueberry farmer Jack Bates about their experience with this practice. We’ll share practical information like reccomendations for seed mixes and successful establishments.
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Everything I Wanted to Know About Compost, Nitrogen and Nutrient Management
2026-03-11 09:00 - 16:00 (America/Vancouver) | Tight Rope Winery, 1050 Fleet Rd, Penticton, British Columbia, V2A 8T7, Canada
Join the BC Institute of Agrologist in Penticton for a field day all about compost, nitrogen and nutrient management. This field day is designed to build confidence from nitrogen management, understanding soil sampling and interpreting results, to knowing your responsibilities under new Nutrient Management Plan (NMPO) regulations, and making informed decisions about amendments, compost, and micronutrients.
This full-day event brings together growers, agrologists, and nutrient management experts to unpack both the science and the real-world application of nitrogen management, soil health, composting, and regulatory requirements.
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Cover Cropping: A Virtual Meet the Farmer Q&A
2026-03-04 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Vancouver) | Online
Join FarmFolk CityFolk for a virtual Meet the Farmer event with Cropthorne Farm! This session will include a virtual farm tour captured in late fall with farmer Lydia Ryall, highlighting how cover crops are used within an organic vegetable system.
We’ll also hear insights from April Stainsby of the Delta Farmland & Wildlife Trust, followed by an interactive farmer Q&A. Bring your questions!
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Electric Fencing Masterclass
2026-03-02 09:00 - 15:00 (America/Vancouver) | Claremont Ranch Organics, 8090 British Columbia 97, Lake Country, British Columbia, V4V 1P9, Canada
Join Julia Smith and Tristan Banwell of the Small-Scale Meat Producers Association at Claremont Ranch Organics for an electric fencing masterclass. Learn how to implement and improve electric fencing systems, discuss theory and best practices when designing new fences, and see a variety of tools and products in practice. This workshop will include a special focus on utilizing electric fencing to graze orchards.
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Rotational Grazing as a Tool for Weed Control
2026-02-25 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Vancouver) | Online
Join Small Scale Meat Producers Association (SSMPA) & Organic BC for an in-depth online session exploring how to leverage intensive rotational grazing as a powerful strategy for weed control. Rather than viewing weeds as a burden, learn how to use livestock management to improve pasture health and suppress common weeds and invasive species.
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Cover Crops in BC
2026-02-19 12:00 - 2026-02-26 13:00 (America/Vancouver) | Online
This two-part webinar series brings cover cropping to life by exploring how thoughtful species selection and management can improve nutrient cycling, soil structure, biodiversity, and long-term farm performance across British Columbia. Whether you’re just starting to explore cover crops or looking to refine existing practices, these sessions will provide the insight and inspiration needed to integrate cover cropping into real-world systems.
🌿Part One: Cover Crops in BC – Why They Matter and How They Work
February 19, 2026, 12-1 pm
🌿Part Two: Cover Crop Management & Mix Design – From Strategy to Success
February 26, 2026, 12-1 pm

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N is for Nitrogen 3.0
2026-02-03 12:00 - 2026-02-24 13:00 (America/Vancouver) | Online
Nitrogen management continues to be one of the most influential and challenging aspects of crop production. N Is for Nitrogen 3.0 builds on previous series to deliver an applied, BC-specific exploration of nitrogen dynamics, crop demand, and management strategies that support productivity while minimizing environmental risk.
This three-part webinar series moves from foundational nitrogen science to crop-specific strategies and real-world case studies. Participants will strengthen their ability to assess nitrogen supply and demand, select appropriate nutrient sources, and make informed management decisions across low-, medium-, and high-nitrogen-demand cropping systems.
Part One: Understanding Nitrogen in Agricultural Systems
February 3, 2026, 12-1 pm
Part One revisits the fundamentals of nitrogen behaviour in agricultural soils, with a focus on practical implications for crop production and environmental protection.
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Part Two: Matching Nitrogen Supply to Crop Demand
February 10, 2026, 12-1 pm
Part Two focuses on meeting but not exceeding crop nitrogen requirements using crop-specific examples and applied management strategies.
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Part Three: Case Studies and Special Topics in Nitrogen Management
February 24, 2026, 12-1 pm
Part Three brings the series together through real-world case studies and participant-driven discussion. Topics will be selected based on audience interests and challenges.
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Foundations of Rotational Grazing and Putting it Into Action
2026-02-03 09:00 - 2026-02-10 10:00 (America/Vancouver) | Online
Rotational grazing is more than a management technique; it is a decision-making framework that shapes soil health, plant productivity, livestock performance, and long-term landscape resilience. This two-part webinar series provides a comprehensive, practical exploration of rotational grazing systems, grounded in decades of applied experience across British Columbia’s diverse grazing environments.
Led by Rob Dinwoodie, PAg., an agrologist with over 35 years of experience in range management, government policy, consulting, and producer support, this series bridges theory and practice. Participants will gain both the “why” behind rotational grazing and the “how” needed to implement, assess, and adapt grazing systems in real-world conditions.
Part One: Foundations of Rotational Grazing – Why and How it Works
February 3, 2026. 9-10 am
This session explores how grazing decisions influence plant health, soil function, and livestock performance, drawing on examples from Crown range, private land, community watersheds, and working ranches across BC.
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Part Two: Putting Rotational Grazing into Action – Tools, Infrastructure and Monitoring
February 10, 2026, 9-10 am
Drawing on Rob’s extensive experience developing grazing plans, advising producers, and monitoring outcomes across a wide range of conditions, this session emphasizes adaptability, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.
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Rotational Grazing: Practical Foundations for Productive, Resilient Systems
2026-01-21 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Vancouver) | Online
Healthy pastures don’t happen by accident; they’re designed. This dynamic, fast-paced virtual session brings rotational grazing to life by showing how thoughtful grazing decisions can transform forage productivity, soil health, and livestock performance, all while reducing labour and guesswork.
Whether you advise producers or manage livestock yourself, this session moves beyond theory and into practical, real-world application. You’ll see how regenerative principles, plant growth patterns, and simple grazing math come together to support resilient grazing systems that work across diverse landscapes and operations.
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Cover Crop Variety Trial Field Day
2025-11-19 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Vancouver) | Sam Enterprises, 3275 Boundary Road, Abbotsford, British Columbia, V3G 2N1, Canada
On November 19, join the BC Living Lab Field Vegetables group for a Cover Crop Variety Trial field day hosted by the Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust. The field day will showcase 22 cover crop varieties and combinations seeded at two different dates. Come see how the different types of winter cover crops compare when grown on a local field!
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Cover Crop Variety Trial Field Day
2025-10-23 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Vancouver) | Zellweger Farms, 4196 Frew Road, Delta, British Columbia, V4K 0A4, Canada
On October 23, join the BC Living Lab Field Vegetables group for a Cover Crop Variety Trial field day hosted by the Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust. The field day will showcase 22 cover crop varieties and combinations seeded at three different dates. Come see how the different types of winter cover crops compare when grown on a local field!
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Dormant Seeding: A Climate-Resilient Approach
2025-03-27 12:00 - 13:00 UTC | Online
Wildfires and prolonged drought conditions present significant challenges to land managers, requiring innovative and science-driven approaches to restore fire-affected landscapes. Dormant seeding is a climate-resilient strategy that enhances soil stability, supports forage production, and promotes ecological recovery while preventing the spread of invasive species.
Join us for an expert-led session exploring dormant seeding techniques and their role in post-fire land restoration.
Key Topics:
🔥 Fire’s Impact on Soil & Ecosystems: Understanding how fire alters soil properties, hydrology, and nutrient cycles.💧 Drought & Post-Fire Regeneration: The role of climate-driven drought in post-fire landscape recovery.🌱 Dormant Seeding for Soil Stabilization: How strategic seeding improves soil health, prevents erosion, and supports ecosystem resilience.🌿 Selecting the Best Seed Mixes: Exploring drought-tolerant forage species, nitrogen-fixing legumes, and competitive plants to suppress invasive species.🚜 Implementation & Best Practices: Techniques for successful establishment of deep-rooted grasses and legumes to rebuild productive rangelands.
Dormant seeding not only accelerates soil recovery but also enhances grazing potential for livestock and wildlife habitat restoration. By strategically planting fire-adapted species, land managers can rebuild resilient landscapes while preventing the spread of aggressive invasive plants.
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Rotational Grazing & Biosecurity Made Simple
2025-03-08 10:00 - 2025-03-09 15:00 UTC | Ruckle Heritage Farm, 1801 Beaver Point Rd, Salt Spring Island, British Columbia, V8K 1W3, Canada
To support local farmers, Small-Scale Meat Producers Association and The Farmland Trust are hosting two free workshops at Ruckle Heritage Farm on Salt Spring Island on March 8 and 9, offering practical solutions and gathering producer feedback.
Day 1: Principles of Multi-Species Rotational Grazing
This workshop will introduce rotational grazing, a management practice that enhances pasture quality, livestock health, and ecosystem resilience. Unlike traditional grazing methods, rotational grazing involves moving livestock through smaller paddocks, allowing pastures to recover and preventing overgrazing, soil erosion, and parasite buildup. Attendees will learn about electric fencing technologies and strategies to increase forage efficiency and drought resilience—an increasingly vital concern for Island farmers.
Day 2: Biosecurity Made Simple: Keeping Your Pigs and Poultry Healthy
With increasing threats like Avian Influenza and African Swine Fever, biosecurity is more critical than ever. This session will provide practical insights on minimizing disease risks in outdoor production systems, including infrastructure improvements, biosecurity planning, outbreak response, and evolving regulations. Farmers will gain actionable strategies to enhance the health and safety of their livestock. Both workshops will include hands-on demonstrations, networking opportunities, and shared experiences from local farmers tackling these challenges firsthand.
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Soil Sampling, Crop Establishment and Cover Cropping
2025-02-25 12:00 - 13:00 UTC | Online
Discover the foundational principles and advanced strategies for building healthier soils, improving crop establishment, and integrating cover cropping into your farming operation in this dynamic BCCAF & BCIA webinar. Presented by industry expert Ryan Comeau, PAg, this session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to optimize soil health and implement sustainable practices that improve yields and resilience.
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Key Topics Covered:
1. Implementing Suitable Cover Crops
2. Building Soil Organic Matter
3. Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Sustainable Farming
4. Regular Soil Testing and Data Analysis
Why These Topics Matter
Improved Yield and Resilience: By incorporating these practices, farmers can enhance their soil’s ability to support healthy crops even under challenging environmental conditions.
Sustainability: These strategies align with climate action goals, ensuring that farm operations are both productive and environmentally responsible.
Practical Application: Each topic is designed to provide actionable insights that can be immediately implemented on your farm or ranch.

N is for Nitrogen 2.0
2025-02-06 12:00 - 2025-02-20 13:00 UTC | Online
Join the BC Institute of Agrologists for a three-part webinar series and discover the key to successful nitrogen management. The series will be hosted by Ruth McDougall. M.Sc, P.Ag.
Session 1: Review of Nitrogen Management in Agriculture and Reclamation
Thursday, February 6, 2025, 12 PM – 1 PM
In this first webinar in the N is for Nitrogen 2.0, Ruth McDougall, M.Sc, P.Ag. will be discusing the critical importance of nitrogen in plant growth and sustainable land management in this comprehensive session. Explore how nitrogen impacts agriculture and reclamation sites, understand its transformations, and learn best practices for efficient nitrogen use to maximize crop uptake while minimizing environmental losses.
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Session 2: Nitrogen Management in Regenerative Agriculture
Thursday, February 13, 2025, 12 PM – 1 PM
Explore the role of nitrogen management in regenerative agriculture and its impact on sustainable farming practices. This session will delve into innovative approaches to optimize nitrogen use while enhancing soil health and supporting ecological balance.
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Session 3: Strategies for Efficient Nitrogen Management
Thursday, February 20, 2025, 12 PM – 1 PM
The final session in the webinar series, will focus on advanced strategies for efficient nitrogen management. This session will provide actionable insights into optimizing nitrogen use in agricultural systems, balancing productivity, and environmental stewardship.
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BC Regional Gathering: Okanagan
2024-11-06 08:30 - 12:30 UTC | Fresh Valley Farms, 1476 Mountain View Rd, Armstrong, British Columbia, V0E 1B8, Canada
On Nov. 6, join Organic BC and the Small Scale Meat Producers Association for a few hours of learning and socializing at Fresh Valley Farms in Armstrong!
Sit down for a panel and Q&A about the tools, strategies and seed sources that can help you make better use of cover crops on your farm. Then, follow up with facilitated small-group discussions and troubleshooting on topics relevant to farmers in this region, such as rotational grazing, cover cropping, soil health, labour challenges, owner burnout, extreme weather resilience and more.
After, all participants are invited to hang around, visit the on-site food truck and take a tour of Fresh Valley Farms (weather permitting). This is a free event, open to all, but registration is required.
REGISTER HERE

Mastering Rotational Grazing for Sustainable Agriculture
2024-10-30 19:00 - 20:00 UTC | Online
Join us for an in-depth workshop on rotational grazing systems, designed to enhance your understanding of sustainable grazing practices. Led by experts Andrew Kenny, AAg, and Léo Maltais, B.Sc., P.Ag., this event will cover the essential components of rotational grazing, from system design to economic planning, offering actionable insights for maximizing both environmental and financial benefits on your farm. This is a free event, but registration is required.
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Rotational Grazing and its Impact on Sustainability and Environment: Canadian GHG Emissions
2024-10-24 12:00 - 13:00 UTC | Online
Join Dr. Usama Tayyab, DVM, MSc, M.Phil., PhD, AAg for his second webinar Sustainability and Environment: Canadian GHG Emissions, where he will delve into the environmental impacts of rotational grazing and its critical role in sustainable agriculture. This session will cover how rotational grazing contributes to reduced soil erosion and compaction, improves water retention, enhances biodiversity, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional grazing methods.
Participants will explore the agriculture carbon footprints of Canadian agriculture, including sectors contributing to CO₂ emissions, sources of methane, and Canada’s climate goals. We will discuss the challenges and limitations of implementing rotational grazing practices, as well as future trends and innovations, such as emerging technologies that can enhance grazing practices.
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Agenda:

Environmental Impact of Rotational Grazing and Canada

Reduced soil erosion and compaction
Better water retention in soils
Enhanced biodiversity and wildlife habitat
Lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional grazing

Role in Sustainability

Contribution to sustainable agricultural practices
Balancing economic, social, and environmental aspects
Potential to reduce the environmental footprint of livestock farming
Alignment with global sustainability goals (e.g., SDGs)

Agricultural Carbon Footprints of Canadian Agriculture

Sectors contributing to CO₂ emissions
Sources of methane
Canada’s climate goals
Methane emissions reduction programs
Feed strategies to mitigate methane emissions in ruminants

Challenges and Limitations

Initial costs and investments required
Need for proper planning and management
Challenges in adapting to different climates and regions
Data on productivity, sustainability, and environmental impact
Lessons learned and key takeaways

Future Trends and Innovations

Emerging technologies in rotational grazing (e.g., GPS-based fencing, smart collars)
Opportunities for research and development
Government policies and incentives supporting sustainable grazing practices

General Conclusion

Summary of key points
The potential of rotational grazing to improve livestock productivity while addressing environmental and sustainability concerns
Call to action: Encouraging adoption of rotational grazing practices for a sustainable future

Q&A Session

Open floor for questions and discussion

Comprehensive Introduction to Rotational Grazing: History, Practices, and Innovations
2024-10-23 09:00 - 16:00 UTC | Havenwood Ranch, 585 Commonage Rd, Vernon, British Columbia, Canada
We’re excited to invite you to the Comprehensive Introduction to Rotational Grazing: History, Practices, and Innovations workshop! Join Don Gayton, M.Sc., P.Ag, for an in-depth workshop on Rotational Grazing—a practice gaining momentum in sustainable agriculture for its benefits to soil health, biodiversity, and livestock management. Whether you’re new to rotational grazing or looking to expand your knowledge, this workshop will offer valuable insights into the history, science, and practicalities of the system.
This is a free event, but registration is required.
REGISTER
Agenda:

Introduction to Rotational Grazing:
Learn about the pioneers in rotational grazing like Arthur Sampson, Andre Voisin, and Alan Savory, and explore modern issues such as grass-fed beef, virtual fencing, and carbon sequestration.
Grass Types and Physiology:
A look at native, introduced agronomics, and invasive species. Understanding the physiology of annual vs. perennial, and bunchgrass vs. rhizomatous types, and their response to defoliation.
Pasture Size and Stocking Rate:
Learn how pasture size, herd type (cow-calf, yearlings, dairy), and stocking rate affect selective and non-selective grazing systems.
Grazing Systems:
Understand different systems from continuous grazing to rotational and deferred rest rotation, including Savory’s holistic approach. Explore fencing and stock water considerations.
Vegetation Dynamics:
Explore how rotational grazing impacts plant species composition and enhances biodiversity.
Soil Health and Rotational Grazing:
Examine the benefits to soil structure, nutrient cycling, and overall soil health.
Weather and Grazing:
Seasonal grazing considerations and the effects of climate change on grazing systems.
LUNCH: Do you have any dietary restrictions/allergies? If so please inform when you register.
Grazing and Fire:
Discover how grazing can be a tool for reducing wildfire risks (WUI fuel reduction) and what to expect after wildfires or prescribed burns.
Livestock Behavior:
Insights into herd dynamics within rotational grazing systems.
Fencing Strategies and Innovations:
Learn about revolutionary virtual fencing technology like Vence and Gallagher systems, and hear about pilot projects in Washington State with future applications in Canada.
Farm/Ranch Logistics:
Planning infrastructure, managing water, and scheduling grazing rotations for optimal results.
Economic Considerations:
Explore the cost-benefit analysis, long-term profitability, and financial sustainability of rotational grazing.
Owner Attitudes and Adoption Challenges:
Learn about the adoption hurdles and success stories in implementing rotational grazing.
Rotational Grazing Trials and Results:
Real-world case studies and the lessons learned from trials in the field.
Q&A Session:
A chance for the audience to ask questions and dive deeper into the topics discussed.

Livestock Productivity through Rotational Grazing
2024-10-22 12:00 - 13:00 UTC | Online
This webinar, is the first of two webinars led by Dr. Usama Tayyab, DVM, MSc, M.Phil., PhD, AAg, an expert in dairy nutrition and animal science, this session will explore the fundamentals of rotational grazing and its profound benefits on livestock productivity. Attendees will gain insights into how rotational grazing improves forage quality, animal health, and overall farm profitability, while also addressing critical environmental concerns such as greenhouse gas emissions. This session will provide both practical knowledge and special attention to real-world case studies and actionable insights for improving farming efficiency. The goal of this session is to equip participants with the tools to implement sustainable grazing practices for a more productive and environmentally conscious future.
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Agenda
1. Introduction

Overview of the challenges faced by livestock farmers in terms of productivity and environmental pressures
Definition of rotational grazing and its role in modern agriculture
Introduction to sustainability in the context of agriculture and climate change

2. The Basics of Rotational Grazing

What is rotational grazing and how does it function?
Key practices: controlled grazing periods, pasture recovery times
Comparison of rotational grazing to conventional methods

3. Benefits of Rotational Grazing for Livestock Productivity

Improved forage quality and availability
Enhanced animal health and weight gain
Higher stocking rates and overall productivity
Real-life case studies showcasing productivity improvements

4. Economic Benefits of Rotational Grazing

Cost savings on feed, fertilizers, and labor
Long-term profitability for farmers
Positive impact on farm revenue and economic sustainability

5. Conclusion

Summary of the key benefits of rotational grazing for livestock productivity
How rotational grazing can be a sustainable solution for the future of agriculture

6. Q&A Session

Open floor for questions, feedback, and discussion

To join us for Dr. Usama’s second webinar on Oct 24, 2024 “Sustainability and Environment: Canadian GHG Emissions,” click here.

BC Regional Gathering: Kootenays
2024-10-18 09:00 - 15:00 UTC | Kokanee Fruit Company Ltd, 719-36th Avenue N, Creston, British Columbia, V0B 1G1, Canada
On October 18, join local producers and industry experts in Creston for a hands-on exploration of the benefits of cover cropping and rotational grazing! Brought to you in collaboration with Organic BC, the Small Scale Meat Producers Association, and Kootenay & Boundary Farm Advisors.
During this event:

Molly Thurston and Greg Evans of Kokanee Fruit Company will guide you through their mixed orchard and grazing operation, highlighting their cover cropping and grazing techniques used to prepare new orchard plantings. And, they will demo their no-till seeder!
Jeff Nimmo, regional agrologist from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, will join Molly, also an agrologist, to analyze the soil profiles to assess the impact of these practices.
Julia Smith from the Small Scale Meat Producers Association will give a practical fencing demo for rotational grazing and a tour of their mobile slaughter trailer.

Lunch will be provided, and the day will wrap up with an optional social gathering at Wild North Brewing (at your cost).
REGISTER

BC Regional Gathering: Northwest Region
2024-10-06 09:00 - 15:00 UTC | Telkwa, BC, Fawn Road, Telkwa, British Columbia, V0J 2X2, Canada
On October 6, join Organic BC and local producers in Telkwa, BC for a day of on-farm fun and learning! Don’t miss:

A tour of True North Farm, a small-scale, mixed operation farm incorporating rotational grazing of sheep, pigs, chickens, alongside their vegetable market garden and honey bee operation. They’ll highlight their closed-loop principles (using their own on-farm inputs and little else), cover cropping program, intensive rotational grazing, no-till practices and more–and of course the bees!
A hands-on session with Jo Tobias of RootShoot Soils. Jo is a regenerative soils & living compost specialist who will outline the fascinating world of soil microorganisms and their critical roles in soil health and plant development. She will also test True North’s compost and compost teas and show you how to farm these wonderful microbes and maximize their potential.
Lunch at Happy Pig Organic Farm. Lunch provided. Enjoy lunch and social time at Happy Pig’s on-farm food truck.

This is a free event, open to all, but registration is required.
Register

Forage and Cover Crop Workshop
2024-09-27 09:00 - 12:00 UTC | Kamloops, BC
Join the BC Institute of Agrologists for an informative and hands-on Forage and Cover Crop Workshop. We will be joined by Ryan Comeau, PAg, and Keegan Miller for an informative and hands-on workshop looking at cover cropping and forage management, offering participants valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices.
This is a free event, but registration is required. REGISTER HERE.
The day will begin with coffee, tea, and delicious local baked goods as Ryan Comeau, PAg, kicks things off with introductions and an overview of the workshop. Ryan will set the stage for a day of learning and exploration focused on soil health and crop management.
Keegan Miller will then take the lead, presenting on Covers and Co‘s full-season cover crop, featuring an impressive 15 species blend such as Hairy Vetch, Italian Rye Grass, Berseem Clover, Purple Top Turnip, Spring Tritcale, Forage Peas, Sorghum Sudan, Sunflower, Forage Oats, Yellow Peas, German Millet, Non GMO F. Soybeans, Daikon Radish, Forage Barley, Flax, and Buckweat. During this interactive session, Keegan will guide participants through key topics, including:

Seed Selection & Soil Building: Understand the importance of selecting the right seeds for cover cropping to enhance soil structure, fertility, and biodiversity. We’ll cover seed variety selection, fertility management, and the use of companion crops like cereals to improve yields. Learn how integrating diverse species in your cover crop mix can optimize soil health and boost productivity.
Reseeding Alfalfa Best Practices: Discover optimal seed rates, timing, and best practices for reseeding alfalfa. We’ll discuss fertility expectations, yield potential, and how to incorporate alfalfa with a cereal companion crop to maximize growth. Minimum tillage methods will also be explored, along with their ideal applications.
Multi-Species Environment: Explore how plants like alfalfa form symbiotic relationships with rhizobium bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi, and other soil micro-organisms, improving nutrient cycling, soil health, and crop growth. We’ll dive into the benefits of a full-season cover crop mix, its plant diversity, grazing potential, and timing for planting and harvest. Participants can observe how these crops compare with older hay stands, which typically require more fertilizer but yield less.

Throughout the workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to get hands-on with the cover crops, discussing how to implement these practices effectively on your own land. This is an excellent chance to expand your knowledge on sustainable farming techniques and network with fellow agrologists and industry professionals.

Nitrogen Management Workshop
2024-09-12 09:30 - 18:00 UTC | Elephant Island Winery, 2730 Aikins Loop, Naramata, British Columbia, V0H 1N1, Canada
We are excited to invite you to the Nitrogen Management Workshop at the beautiful Elephant Island Winery on September 12, 2024. This event, hosted by Carl Withler PAg in collaboration with Elephant Island Winery, features expert speakers, hands-on demonstrations, and networking opportunities. The day begins with a warm welcome and refreshments, followed by brief introductions and an outline of the day’s activities. Scott Smith, PAg will start the presentations with a discussion on soil development and nitrogen management. After a coffee break, Miranda Halladay will provide insights into the history and management of Elephant Island Winery, followed by Chris Mark presenting innovative strategies for nitrogen management in orchards and vineyards. Learn more and register!

Pastured Pig & Poultry Production on the Small-Scale Farm
2024-09-08 09:00 - 17:00 UTC | Fresh Valley Farms, 1476 Mountain View Rd, Armstrong, British Columbia, V0E 1B8, Canada
Join the Small-Scale Meat Producers Association at Fresh Valley Farms for a fun and informative workshop/field day in Armstrong BC. We’ll consider how the principles of rotational grazing, regenerative agriculture and good biosecurity can be applied when raising pigs and poultry in pasture-based settings. Innovative tools and technologies are making it easier than ever to implement successful grazing management plans and we will explore some of these exciting options as well as funding opportunities available to help implement these beneficial management practices. Whether you’re new to farming, or looking to learn from others in the community, join us for an eventful day of learning and networking.
Register here!

Small-Scale Pig Production Workshop
2024-05-11 09:00 - 16:30 UTC | Keating Farm, 5250 Miller Rd, Duncan, British Columbia, V9L 6R6, Canada
Join the Small-Scale Meat Producers Association and the Cowichan Agricultural Society on May 11 at beautiful Keating Farm in Duncan for a Small-Scale Pig Production Workshop. Click here to reserve your spot!
Session 1: Fundamentals of Small-Scale Pig Production
Starting with basic terminology, we’ll explore how best to get started with small-scale pig production including breed selection, supplies and equipment needed, legal requirements, housing, feed and water management, health, handling, and emerging issues like African Swine Fever and feral hogs.
Session 2: Planning for a Successful Breeding Program
In this session, we will deal with the key factors for breeding including the condition of your gilt or sow prior to breeding, choice of boar, time of year for farrowing plus equipment to have on hand when the sow is due to farrow. Some of the more common issues or complications that might arise during breeding and farrowing will be covered. Castration technique and tagging will be demonstrated via video.
Session 3: Nutrition and Feeding Basics
Everett Dixon from Top Shelf Feeds will discuss the nutrition needs of both breeding stock and growing pigs including the changing requirements for protein, vitamins, minerals. He will also address the challenge of ensuring that your pigs’ nutritional needs are being adequately met when supplementing their diet with alternative feeds like spent brewery grains, produce scraps and other food waste.
Session 4: Integrating Pigs into a Rotational Grazing System
In this session we will discuss the fundamentals of rotational grazing and what role pigs can play in regenerative agriculture. Practicalities including forage varieties, pasture management, health considerations and the unique needs of pigs will be covered. Fencing options for the successful management of pasture-based pig production will be introduced before we head out for some hands-on skill building and fencing demonstrations.
Demonstrations & Hands-On Skills Training
We will be demonstrating a range of tools and technologies you can use as part of a successful fencing system including fencing equipment and UBCO electric bikes. There will be opportunities for hands-on skills training, test rides and lots of time for questions.

Innovative Cover Cropping Video Series Screening
2024-04-29 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Online
Join us for an evening of cover cropping with Organic BC’s Innovative Cover Cropping video series. During this online screening, watch our recently completed video series, showcasing new and diverse cover cropping practices across three regions in the province, spanning five different sectors. Reserve your spot!
Peace Region
Dive into the work of the North Peace Applied Research Association, where they explore intercropping with legumes in a cereal cash crop setting. Head to SR Farms, an organic grain farm, and discover their cover cropping practices, carefully chosen after years of experimentation. Next, witness Jackknife Creek Land and Cattle’s multi-species swath grazing cover cropping practices and their positive impact on herd and soil health.
South Okanagan
Join us at the Summerland Research and Development Center, where Dr. Kirsten Hannam shares the trials in progress with a woolly thyme permanent ground cover within fruit tree production, as an alternative to common bare strip or bark mulch under-tree management. Then, peek into Kalala Organic Estate Winery’s innovative inter-alleyway chickpea cover crop trial, which serves a dual purpose as both cover crop and cash crop.
Fraser Valley/ Lower Mainland
Lastly, visit Holberg Farm, a dairy farm trialling the practice of relay cropping with Italian ryegrass within their corn silage crops, for improving soil health while providing nutritious on-farm feed for the cattle.

Cover Cropping: Uses, Benefits and Potential Management Concerns
2024-03-26 12:00 - 2024-03-28 13:00 UTC | Online
Unearth the world of cover crops in an engaging three-part webinar series with Mike Witt, PAg. We will journey from the surface to below ground, exploring their diverse definitions, applications, and advantages. Reserve your spot!
Part 1: March 26, 2024, 12 – 1 PM PST
Immerse yourself in the foundational understanding of cover crops, delving into their role in soil health, regenerative agriculture, erosion control, forage production, and biofumigation.
Part 2: March 27, 2024, 12-1 PM PST
We’ll dig deeper, spotlighting specific cover crop species tailored to various crop systems, from large to small scale, and across different regions within British Columbia. Navigate through the intricacies of their management, addressing concerns when incorporated into crop rotations and utilized as forage. We’ll explore an array of annuals, including grasses, legumes, brassicas, and other forbs.
Part 3: March 28, 2024, 12-1 PM PST
Our exploration continues with a focus on winter annuals, biennials, and short-lived perennials, unveiling their unique benefits and considerations. Gain valuable insights into forage use, with a spotlight on the BC Living Lab Cattle & Forage Project. Join us for this comprehensive journey through cover crops, where we’ll unearth their potential both above and below the surface, offering practical knowledge for various agricultural landscapes and practices.
