Happy Friday Folks 

As this is my first blog post, please allow me to introduce myself as the new OFCAF team member here at Perennia, my name is Georgia Lewis.  I grew up in Kingston, Nova Scotia and graduated from the NSAC in 2014. I am very excited to be part of the Perennia team and to be working hand in hand with farmers and industry within our Atlantic region. 

Last weekend I was lucky to meet some great farmers and industry at the Newfoundland Young Famers Summit in St. John’s. We had great discussions on cover cropping and were fortunate enough to have a sunny day to tour some sites. My favourite was the O’Brian’s family farm foundation, where they help people get started in farming with five-year leases. If you’re not familiar, please check it out – O’Brien Farm (obrienfarm.ca). I learned that famers in NL are most mostly concerned with moisture (there’s a lot), unpredictable seasons, and access to labour. Sound familiar? 

Now, as the late fall season and long evenings are setting in, what a great time to grab a hot or cold drink and take some time to explore some of our OFCAF learning resources. 

First, we have a new video from Caitlin and Rosalie showcasing their trial; Fall Rye Seeding Date by Seeding Rate – YouTube. In this demonstration they provide potential options when pushing those later fall rye planting dates. Because, as our climate changes, so do our management practices. 

Second, we have some factsheets and corresponding quizzes available. These quizzes can be used for continuing education opportunities for current OFCAF farmers. 

Be sure to check out our Ask Us Anything -Cover Crop Edition with Caitlin and Sonny on December 13th, 2023. They are a whirlwind of knowledge that can help with any lingering questions you may have on cover crops. Register Here at: Cover Crop – Ask Us Anything! – Perennia

In the meantime, keep checking in on the training page for future events, and look over our Resource page for lots of great factsheets, manuals, and videos. 

Thanks for reading, and I am looking forward to meeting you soon. 

Georgia