OCO Provides New Funding for Organic Production Clubs

The Organic Council of Ontario is initiating a pilot project for the development of Organic Production Clubs in Ontario that will provide funding for new and existing groups of organic farmers who meet to learn more about their organic farming operations. This funding is part of $200,000 provided in March 2008 by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) to support the growth of the Ontario organic sector.

Producer Production Clubs are composed of organic producers in a region who come together periodically to share their production experiences and learn about new developments. Also referred to as Study Clubs, these groups enable experienced organic producers to transfer knowledge to new entrants, and provide a needed support system for organic producers.

The Organic Council of Ontario will provide up to $2500 per club for educational activities relating to organic production. This funding has the overall goal of promoting the long-term viability of organic farming in Ontario by connecting farmers in a supportive learning environment. Groups may engage speakers, discuss farm management or production issues, initiate tours and engage in other learning activities at their meetings. Applications are being accepted until October 30, 2008. Clubs will begin meeting in 2008.

"This funding will assist farmers in accessing current, focused and relevant information about organic farming" said Kim Thorne, OCO's Executive Director. "A developed, organised system of farmer to farmer communication has proved highly successful in other jurisdictions and we are excited to be able to support this type of initiative in Ontario".

Members and non-members of the Organic Council of Ontario are eligible to apply for funding. Additional eligibility criteria and application forms can be found on the Organic Council of Ontario's website at www.organiccouncil.ca or by calling the OCO Office at 519-827-1221.

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