Specialty Crop Summer Student Positions Available in Simcoe

Posted on January 15, 2026 by Sean Westerveld

APPLY BY: February 10, 2026 11:59 pm EST

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) – Agriculture Development Branch in Simcoe (Norfolk County), Ontario is seeking highly motivated, enthusiastic and energetic team players. These positions will provide an excellent opportunity for those interested in a career in horticulture production, weed management, plant pathology, entomology, research or the agricultural service sector. These positions will provide the opportunity to learn about pests and production in several specialty crops, including ginseng, lavender, hops, peanuts, haskaps and sesame.

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Posted in All Specialty Crops, Ginseng, Haskap, Herbs, Hops, Hops Other, Lavender, Other Specialty Grains, Specialty Fruit and Nuts, Specialty Grains, Sweet Potato | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Mandatory Online Application for Water Taking Permits Now in Effect

Posted on January 7, 2026 by Sean Westerveld

By: Badrul Masud, Water Quantity Engineer, OMAFA

As of January 5, 2026, all Permit to Take Water (PTTW) applications, which are required under the Ontario Water Resources Act if you take 50,000 litres or more of water per day, must be submitted online through the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) online permission system.  The MECP has updated PTTW pages to provide more information on applying online. These pages include:

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Seeking Grower Input for Pseudocereal Research Survey

Posted on November 27, 2025 by Evan Elford

We invite farmers to participate in a University of Guelph research study examining current knowledge and familiarity among Canadian growers and processors regarding pseudocereals (such as buckwheat and quinoa). The purpose of this study is to identify barriers to cultivation and utilization and explore opportunities for growth in this sector.

Your perspective is essential to understanding adoption challenges and potential solutions whether you currently grow pseudocereals or not. The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete and will remain open until January 31, 2026.

Please use this link to participate: Grower survey – buckwheat and quinoa | Qualtrics Survey

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Posted in All Specialty Crops, Other Specialty Grains, Quinoa, Specialty Grains, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Ginseng Pesticide and Research Prioritization Meeting – November 28, 2025

Posted on November 4, 2025 by Sean Westerveld

The Ginseng Pesticide and Research Prioritization Meeting will be held in person at the Ontario Crops Research Centre – Simcoe (Simcoe Research Station) on Friday, November 28. This is an opportunity to discuss the production issues over the past year, establish research priorities for the coming year and to prioritize products for the minor use system. An update will be provided on products currently in the minor use system and any research applicable to the discussion.

Please note, we recognize that some growers are still busy at that time of year, but this is the latest the meeting can be held to meet the deadlines of the minor use system.

When: Friday, November 28

Time: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

Where: Ontario Crops Research Centre – Simcoe Auditorium

Note: Refreshments will be provided but there will be no breakfast or lunch served. No RSVP is required.

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Lavender Farm Tour and Educational Event Sept. 27

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Sean Westerveld

The Ontario Lavender Association is holding an in-person education and networking event at Woodland North Lavender Farm in Madoc on Saturday, September 27th from 9am-4pm. This event is being offered to non-members of OLA at $30 per person (no cost for OLA members).

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Excellence in Agriculture Awards – Nomination Deadline Extended to Friday, September 12

Posted on September 10, 2025 by Sean Westerveld

Do you know someone making an impact in Ontario’s agri-food sector? Nominations are now open for the 2025 Excellence in Agriculture Awards! These awards recognize the individuals and organizations that are driving excellence, sustainability and long-term competitiveness in Ontario’s $51 billion agri-food industry.  

Ontario’s agriculture and food industry is full of exceptional people, businesses and organizations driving innovation, sustainability and leadership. With 12 award categories including Youth, Education, and Family Farm Excellence, there are many opportunities to recognize yourself, your organization, or someone you know. 

If you know someone making a difference, or if that someone is you, nominate them today!   

Nominations can be submitted at ontario.ca/agrifoodinnovation. 

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