Chairperson: John Lohr - John welcomed all our guests, invited Bill Denyar to lead us in O'Canada which was followed by prayer of thanksgiving for the bounty we enjoy in the Valley and the friendship we share.
Our guests were many - friends, family and business associates from our Agriculture Community
Phil Warren - President Elect spoke on behalf of President Rod to say thank you for your support in our annual fundraiser Valley Faces of Business. Together we make the difference to individuals in all our communities.
Guest Speaker: Mr Josh Oulton - Nueffield Canada - Agricultural Scholarships
Introduction: Josh born in Windsor NS worked along side his grandfather on his beef and layer farm. Josh attended NSAC and worked in the dairy before transitioning to horticulture. In 2004 Josh purchased 14 acre mixed vegetable farm in Lower Canard. Today he is farming with his partner, Patricia Bishop, and a 40 member farm team. They have 3 children aged 17,13 and 12.
Presently farming 300 acres consisting of vegetables, fruit, malting barley, pastured livestock, plus flax for long line linen. The farm has a 400 member CSA (community share agriculture) selling products to local farmers markets and grocery stores. Josh was President of Horticulture Nova Scotia and is active in the organic farming community.
Josh shared his story being part of the Nueffield Canada Agricultural Scholar group and toured several places in Europe and Africa. This opportunity led to learning, exploring, understanding agriculture in various countries. Oportunities to share and discuss farming methods. Josh presented personal life-time experiences from his trip that were of interest and fascinating!!
Steve Healey THANKED Josh for a wonderful recap of his travels connected to agriculture and being part of the Scholarship Team.
NEXT MEETING - MARCH 18
Kentville Historical Society - Society Chair Erik Deal & David Duke, Professor of History, Acadia University.