New Bursary for Young PEC Organic Farmers
Submitted for County Sustainability Group by Don Ross & Don Hudson
The County Sustainability Group is pleased to announce the creation of a new bursary fund of $1000 to be awarded annually in May to a young farmer ( under 40 ) in Prince Edward County who best demonstrates the values of sound, sustainable, organic farm practices which regenerate soil health, protects vital resources such as water and biodiversity, reduces the need for synthetic inputs and prioritizes renewable energy sources.
Our group recognizes the importance of farmers and agriculture to our rural community and province. In particular, we are grateful for sustainable farmers who are doing their utmost to protect the health of the land and all living creatures by implementing best practices. We want this award to demonstrate our gratitude and help their long term success in the very challenging occupation of farming. Farmers feed cities and provide us all with nutritious food that far too often is taken for granted. Without their dedication and commitment to their craft, imagine how different our world would be?
We especially acknowledge , with this bursary, the challenges faced by young farmers just starting out in organic farming or trying to maintain or expand an existing operation. This is an expensive undertaking and not for the faint of heart. Every little bit can help, perhaps going towards new seeds, greenhouses, equipment, soil revitalization, irrigation, livestock, land leases, renewable energy or any number of important aspects of modern organic farming.
Applicants should demonstrate an understanding of the goals of Ecological Farmers of Ontario (EFAO). Candidates should submit their application letters describing their reasons for being considered for this award by April 30th to Don Hudson at valleypine.hudson@gmail.com or Don Ross at ecodonross@hotmail.com A winner will be selected and award money presented by May15th in order that it can be put to good use early in the growing season. If no suitable candidates should come forward this year, the award money will carry forward to 2020 when 2 – $1000 awards may be presented or a single recipient could receive $2000.
Ongoing funding for this bursary will be generated by proceeds from our annual CSG Rain Barrel & Composter Sale held on the final Saturday of May (see www.rainbarrel.ca/csgpicton ) This year’s sale on May 25th will be our 9th and continues to also fund our PECI student environmental bursary award in memory of Fred Holtz. We appreciate the support our community has shown for this event and welcome any extra donations an individual or business may wish to make to assist in the ongoing funding of either of these bursaries.
See also
County Sustainability Group 