a growing thirst for knowledge in this organic why

F o r t h e A l u m n i a n d F r i e n d s o f t h e N o v a S c o t i a A g r i c u l t u r a l C o l l e g e

Volume 26 Number 1Winter 2002

The Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada, a national centre for education and research in organic agriculture at NSAC, will help quench a growing thirst for knowledge in this fast-emerging sector.

WhyOrganic

Agriculture?

Shipping & Handling (up to 10lbs)

Nova Scotia - $5.00 - $7.00New Brunswick - $5.00 - $8.00Newfoundland - $7.00 - $19.00

Special orders (2-3 weeks), with extra cresting availableshipping and handling depends on postal code, shipped CanPar

To order, call or fax (902) 893-6728

VISA & MASTERCARD accepted!

NSAC BOOKSTORE

SOUVENIRS

Baseball HatsTwo-tone with suede peak $16.50

T-ShirtsFull front NSAC logo$16.00 (navy, white, forest green)

Longsleeve T-ShirtLeft breast NSAC logo $22.50 (navy, ash grey, grey, forest green)

Sweat pants50/50 fleece fabric blend$25.95 - $30.95 (various colors)

Book Bags$40.00(navy, green)

Fleece with logo left breast1/4 Zip Fleece pullover 13oz. $46.85 (burgundy, grey, navy)

Coffee Mug $3.80

Shot Glass$5.00

Key Chains$3.00

TiesNavy with NSAClogos throughout$24.50 (navy)

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Water Bottle$4.50

SweatshirtsCrew neck 90/10 with satin letteringfull front$27.50 (navy)

Please call or drop bythe bookstore to see ourfull range of NSACclothing and accessories!

Lapel pins $2.35

T-ShirtHerringbone, NSAC left breast$27.50 (navy,forest green, sand)

AGRICOLA NEWSAGRICOLA NEWS

Editor: Stephanie Rogers

Editorial Board Members: Judy Grant ‘78, Steve Myette ‘81, Herb MacRae ‘52

Contributing Writers: Judy Smith, Ralph Martin,Jim Goit, Brian Crouse

Design & Layout: GaynorSarty

Printing: Bro-Moc Print

Mailed under Canada PostPublication Mail Sales AgreementNo. 1537539

Message from the Principal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Message from the President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Around and About . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Homecoming Weekend and Alumni News . . . . . . . .18Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Barnyard Banter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22Athletics in Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24In Memorium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27Look Who’s Talking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

AGRICOLA NEWS Nova Scotia Agricultural CollegeP.O. Box 550 Truro,Nova Scotia B2N 5E3

(902) 893-7247(902) 897-9399Email: [email protected]

13

F o r t h e A l u m n i a n d F r i e n d s o f t h e N o v a S c o t i a A g r i c u l t u r a l C o l l e g e

Winter 2002Cover Story

The Haley Institute of Animal Science Fundraising Priorities

On Founders Day, February14th, 2002, the NSACnamed the Animal Scienceand Aquaculture Building,the Haley Institute of AnimalScience and Aquacultureafter Dr. Leslie Haley,Principal NSAC from 1989 till 1996.

14

8

AGRICOLA NEWS

Departments

Highlights

Cover: The fertile Annapolis Valley spreads outbelow the bountiful potential of organic agriculture.

Volume 26 Number 2

Published twice yearly by the NSAC Alumni Association Please send your letters, comments or correspondence to:

New Foundation Directors

The NSAC Foundation Board welcomes theHonourable Margaret Norrie McCain, DickHuggard and Sherry Porter.

Organized fundraising hasbeen identified as an impor-tant element of the activities ofthe NSAC and the establish-ment of the Development andAlumni Relations Office isrecognition of that priority.

21

Homecoming Weekend 18

Why Organic

Agriculture?

The Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada, anational centre for education and research inorganic agriculture at NSAC, will help quench agrowing thirst for knowledge in this fast-emergingsector.

Garth Coffin, Class of ‘60Principal, NSAC

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A Message from the Principal

2 Agricola News

Fellow Alumni and Friends,

On behalf of all staff and students atthe NSAC, let me begin by wish-

ing everyone a happy and successfulnew year. May good fortune smileupon you!

As we enter the second year of thenew millennium, it seems like the righttime to be looking forward and plan-ning strategically to seize the opportuni-

ties expected to come our way. That is exactly what we are attemptingto do as we draw toward the conclusion of our strategic planningprocess that has been going on during the past year. The title of ourdraft plan, “Looking Outward - Embracing Change”, is meant to con-vey recognition of the need to be more tuned in to the world around usand to be leading appropriate changes rather than waiting for them tobe thrust upon us. The response of our external stakeholders group(including a number of alumni) to a planning workshop in Novemberwas quite constructive and we are thankful for their input. We are plan-ning another internal process before the plan is finalized, but I believewe can look forward to changes in academic programs, more empha-sis on internationalization, community service, recruitment and staffdevelopment and continued emphasis on research and a new form ofgovernance.

A major action taken recently to support the strategic planning exer-cise and recruitment activities was the commissioning of a market studydesigned to find out what various publics know and think about theNSAC and how we can attract more students. The study being carriedout by Corporate Research Associates was not completed at time of writ-ing but preliminary results indicate we have substantial work to do toraise the profile of NSAC. We thank all those who participated in thesurvey and solicit your continued support in helping achieve greaterrecognition for our alma mater.

If you are wondering about the importance of the market study, it isparticularly critical to our recruitment efforts. After three years of declin-ing enrolment, we simply must find a more effective means of commu-nicating the growing job opportunities for graduates in this field. Lastyear, for example, we experienced a 22 per cent increase in jobs post-ed through our career services office (1022 opportunities!). We are cur-rently using TV advertising to support our other efforts and have recent-ly boosted our scholarship offerings in New Brunswick, Prince EdwardIsland and Newfoundland and Labrador. But perhaps we need eachmember of the alumni to tell a young person about the career opportu-nities in this field.

One highly significant event which occurred last July was the award-ing of a federal grant of just under one million dollars to establish theOrganic Agriculture Centre of Canada at NSAC. While we are pur-suing additional funds to match the federal grant, work has alreadybegun on the early projects of the Centre, under the leadership of its firstdirector, Dr. Ralph Martin. It was largely due to Dr. Martin’s hard work,determination, vision and national reputation that we have the distinc-

tion of hosting the Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada at NSAC. Butwe have as strong a core of professors with expertise in this field as youwill find anywhere in Canada. With an emphasis on the science andtechnology of organic agriculture, the Centre will be focused on provid-ing information to farmers across Canada who are interested inresponding to the growing consumer demand for organic products.

In keeping with the need to improve our connection with the worldaround us and to develop our capacity and readiness for fund-raising,we have rearranged our administrative functions and office locations tocreate a Development and Alumni Relations Office. Stephanie Rogerswill continue to commit part of her time in working with Jim Goit and Jo-Anne Jordan in this effort. Associated with these developments you willfind an article on funding priorities in this newsletter. Contributions inany of these areas would be welcomed at any time.

Thanks to the spirit of the alumni who joined us for the Homecomingin October, we had a successful event. One of the highlights, as usual,was the Library Breakfast held on Saturday morning in the MacRaeLibrary. The theme on the Co-op Movement and an entertaining speechby Allister Marshal, was an appropriate background for the signing ofan M.O.U. with Co-op Atlantic. The M.O.U. commits NSAC and Co-op Atlantic to work together in pursuit of common interests in areas ofeducation, training and research for the benefit of agriculture in AtlanticCanada.

I want to extend my congratulations to Byron Beeler who was cho-sen as the Distinguished Alumnus for 2001. Byron is very deserving ofthis recognition as someone who is a great supporter of the NSAC andhas always carried the NSAC banner proudly and high throughout hisoutstanding career in agribusiness. Bravo Byron.

Before leaving alumni matters, I want to acknowledge and thank retir-ing Association Directors John Hutchings, Roy MacKenzie, WalterTermeer and Barry Russell for their service and to welcome new DirectorsMelanie Laird, Danny Phinney, Gordon Murray, Wendy Burns and LisaAshworth. I look forward to working with you.

Also of interest to Alumni is the recent appointment of two more alum-ni to the Board of the NSAC Foundation. Dick Huggard and SherryPorter have been appointed to three-year terms, joining alumnus Dr.Nancy Crowe, along with the Honourable Margaret McCain (reap-pointed for a new three-year term) and David Martin, Vice-President ofthe Bank of Nova Scotia and Chair of the Foundation Board. We lookforward to a closer working relationship between these two groups inthe coming year.

There is always more to be said than space or time allows. So I willconclude by saying, simply, that we appreciate your continued interestand support and we will be counting on that even more as we addressthe challenges which lie ahead.

Sincerely,

A Message from the President

Clint McLean, Class of ‘79President, NSAC Alumni Association

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Winter 2002 3

It is a pleasure to be writing you again as President of the NSACAlumni Association. I want to start by expressing my thanks tothe retiring members of the Board of Directors: Walter Termeer,

Roy MacKenzie, John Hutchings and Barry Russell. We are verypleased to have five new members rounding out our board:Melanie Laird, (‘94) and Lisa Ashworth (‘99) from New Brunswick;Gordon Murray (‘01) and Danny Phinney (‘86) from Nova Scotia;and Wendy (Hollis) Burns (‘97) from Prince Edward Island. I lookforward to the ideas and contributions of these new members, asthe Association moves forward into another year.

It was great to see so many alumni during the HomecomingWeekend in October. This was our second year holding thisannual event in the Fall, and we were pleased to hear severalfavourable comments. One improvement noted was the schedul-ing of the various events. This reduced the conflict between com-peting events, and allowed alumni to participate more fully whileenjoying their weekend. It was particularly gratifying to see theexcellent participation in the Annual Meeting. I want to onceagain thank the organizing committee for a job well done.

I also had the privilege of participating in the AutumnAssembly in October, where the Association presented over$13,000 in scholarships and bursaries. This support is crucial tothe College and our future alumni, and I trust you will consider anyhelp you can give in this vital area.

The Alumni Association established a “Donor RecognitionProgram” in the past year. The purpose of this program is toencourage financial support to the Association and to recognizefrequency of donations as opposed to the amount of support.Certificates were presented to several members who have madenumerous financial contributions to the Association.

It was fitting in the International Year of the Volunteer that theAlumni Association also established a volunteer recognition pro-gram in 2001. The volunteer recognition award will serve toexpress the appreciation of the Association for the involvement ofalumni on committees and the board of directors. Teri Kennedy, theNSAC student who worked for the Association during the summerof 2001, developed a certificate to acknowledge alumni as theyreach the five, ten and fifteen year benchmarks of service to theAssociation. We would love to put your name on one of them; soplease consider any way you may be able to help the Associationand the greater College community.

The Distinguished Alumnus Award allows the Nova ScotiaAgricultural College Alumni Association, on behalf of its member-ship, to recognize the outstanding contributions of alumni to theCollege and to their community. The 2001 Distinguished AlumnusAward was presented to Byron Beeler, Class of ‘56, for his lead-ership and service. We were thrilled to have Byron and his wifeKatherine join us for the Homecoming Weekend, along with alarge contingent from that distinguished class.

I was pleased to be invited to participate, along with otherExternal and Internal Stakeholders, in the Strategic Planning exer-cise being undertaken by the College. One thing that struck mewas the large percentage of the participants who share the com-mon experience of being NSAC Alumni. Members swell the ranksof leadership in the agricultural industry in Atlantic Canada andbeyond. Surely we can find ways to harness this resource to ben-efit the College where needed.

The College many of us knew in our student days has grownand progressed, however, many challenges lie ahead. Decliningenrolment is affecting the NSAC, as it is agricultural facultiesthroughout North America. There are many ways alumni can help,but the reality in these days of shrinking resources is that financialsupport is more needed than ever. Your Board would love to hearsuggestions for ways the Alumni, and your Association, can pro-vide tangible help.

I wish you the best for 2002, and I look forward to meetingmany of you over the coming year.

Sincerely,

Around&About.............................Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About....

Around&About.............................

4 Agricola News

Steve Mayete, Class of ‘81

CVMA Industry Award

The CVMA Industry Award was established to publicly acknowl-edge and celebrate the role of industry in veterinary medicine.

The award formally recognizes the contribution of groups or indi-viduals, veterinarians and non veterinarians to the advancement ofveterinary medicine.Mr. Steve Myette has proved his dedication to the advancement ofveterinary medicine in his 16 years as a volunteer with the AtlanticProvinces Veterinary Conference (APVC). Mr. Myette began hisinvolvement with the APVC as an industry representative forBimeda-MTC Animal Health Inc. This evolved into a 15-year-vol-unteer position as assistant to Dr. Bert Stevenson, the chairman onarrangements for the APVC. Described by Dr. Stevenson as the‘heart and soul of the planning committee,’ Mr. Myette helped torevive the APVC by working closely with other industry represen-tatives and exhibitors and by incorporating all members of the vet-erinary team.

In the early 1990s, it became clear to the conference organiz-ers that the APVC would need to change in order to grow with thetimes; more commercial representatives than veterinarians wereattending the conference. Through discussions with conferenceattendees, the committee was able to determine what veterinariansin the Atlantic provinces wanted from their conference- continuingveterinary education at a reasonable price. This year’s attendanceat the APVC was a record 400 veterinarians, technicians, officestaff and industry supporters. My. Myette continues to volunteerwith the APVC, lecture at the Nova Scotia and New BrunswickAnimal Health Technology programs and works as an animalhealth pharmaceutical representative for Novartis Animal HealthInc.

During 2001, Apple Berry Farm Market was recognized for itsachievements locally through the Bridgewater and Area

Chamber of Commerce and nationally through the Canadian Giftand Tableware Association (CGTA).

Apple Berry Farm Market was awarded the EntrepreneurialAchievement Award at the Business Excellence Awards in October.This award was developed by the Bridgewater and Area Chamberof Commerce. The Entrepreneurial Achievement Award recognizesthe business person who has succeeded through innovation andrisk-taking in introducing new products or services or growing anexisting product line or service through a unique approach. Therecipient demonstrates notable achievement in one or all of the fol-lowing criteria: new product growth, employee growth, industryrecognition, innovative marketing, ability to overcome adversityand impact on the local economy.

In November 2001, Apple Berry farm Market was awarded theEastern Regional Canadian Retailer of the Year from the CanadianGift and Tableware association from a group of more than 500entries. The awards are based on visual merchandising and storedesign, business achievement, advertising and promotion andcommunity involvement. This award is presented each year to abusiness that has demonstrated outstanding achievement in retail-ing. The award banquet and gala event was held on January 27th2002 in Toronto. Apple Berry Farm Market will be featured in theJanuary issue of Retail News magazine for its award. The CGTAwas established in 1976 and represents more than 1600 giftwaremanufacturers, distributers and wholesalers across Canada.

The Apple Berry Farm Maket opened its doors in 1983. Kyla’sfather Allison Woodworth is a member of the Class of 1963 andher grandfather, W.H. Woodworth, Class of 1913.

Kyla and David Pierik, Class of ‘92

Entrepreneurial Achievement Award

Dr. Darcey Shaw, CVMA President, presents the Industry award to Steve Myette

presently the fastest female competitor in Atlantic Canada andfourth in the nation. Darlene’s crowning achievement to date is atop ten placing at the world finals at Las Vegas in 2000.

The challenge, originally designed to test recruits wanting to enterthe fire service, is composed of five events that are designed to sim-ulate actual firefighting scenarios. The ‘warm up’ event consists ofracing up a five storey tower with a 42 pound hose pack on thecompetitor’s shoulder. At the top of the tower, the pack is set down

and a 45 pound hoseroll is hoisted via ropefrom the ground to thefifth storey. The com-petitor then races downthe tower to where a165 pound I-beamwaits to be driven fivefeet backwards by alarge mallet. The com-petitor then weavesthrough an obstaclecourse of fire hydrants,grabbing a fullycharged fire hose andadvancing it 75 feet toknock over a target.For the grand finale, a175 pound mannequinis dragged 100 feetbackwards through thecourse. The course istwinned, and two com-petitors race side byside against the clockand each other.

The FirefighterCombat Challenge is ademanding but reward-ing experience.Darlene must sacrificeconsiderable time to

strength train for the competition. In the end, however, it is a uniqueand rewarding experience. “Competing does help you become abetter firefighter”, says Darlene, “You also get to meet great fire-fighters from around the world”. So what exactly is worn during aFirefighter Combat Challenge? A full 50 pound fire suit of course.Now that’s hot!

Congratulations Darlene, on all of your accomplishments.

Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About....

Winter 2002 5

Darlene Acton, Class of ‘86NSAC Alumnus in Top Ten at World Finals

Whether she’s dragging 300 poundhoses through the desert heat in Las

Vegas, Nevada or managing financial accounts on peaceful PrinceEdward Island, Darlene Acton is up for the challenge.

Darlene gradu-ated from theNova ScotiaA g r i c u l t u r a lCollege in 1986with a Bachelor ofScience inA g r i c u l t u r a lEconomics. Sheaccepted the posi-tion of AgriculturalAccount Managerwith the Royal

Bank and now lives with her husbandand children in Crapaud, PEI.

In 1999, Darlene joined the CrapaudVolunteer Fire Department. “I wasalways intrigued by both the excitementof responding and also of the cama-raderie within the fire service”, Darlenereflects. That summer, Darlene begancompeting in the Firefighter CombatChallenge after watching the competi-tion at a regional event and on televi-sion. Darlene and her husband SandyMacQuarrie, also a former NSAC stu-dent, admired the athleticism and stami-na of the competitors and began train-

ing for and eventually competing in the event. At the time that thehusband and wife team began competing, they were the only twofrom PEI to do so.

Darlene not only competes in the event, but is also one of thefastest females to complete the Challenge world-wide. After notcompleting the course in her inaugural attempt in ‘99, Darlene is

Update

Since this article was written, Darlene and her family moved toOntario and Darlene is now employed with Farm CreditCorporation.

Darlene is presently the fastestfemale competitor in AtlanticCanada and fourth in thenation. Darlene’s crowningachievement to date is a topten placing at the world finalsat Las Vegas in 2000.

Darlene and her husband race in a grudge match inCharlottetown during this past summer They areshown in the last leg of the course, dragging a 175lb mannequin 100 feet backwards.a

The zoo has three keepers that are each in charge of a section ofthe zoo. Bernie Gallant (‘89) is the keeper for the large cats, rep-

tiles, invertebrates, and some hoof stock. Jamie Carson (‘97) is thekeeper for birds and primates and Paula Mason (‘94) is the keep-er of a variety of species including equine, camels, otters to namea few.

Bernie Gallant (‘89) has been working at the zoo for 15 years,initially as a summer student. He graduated from the AgriculturalCollege with a B.Sc. in Animal Science. Bernie, also known as thereptile man is the one to talk to if you have questions about reptiles,insects, or any of the zoo animals.

Jamie Carson (‘97) started working for the zoo as a summer stu-dent seven years ago and was hired full time in January 1998.Jamie graduated with a B.Sc. in Animal Science. During the sum-mer months Jamie is responsible for the daily presentation of ‘World

6 Agricola News

Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About....

Bernie Gallant, Class of ‘89, Jamie Carson, Class of ‘97, Paula Mason, Class of ‘94

of Birds’. This is an informative experience with a guest list thatincludes parrots, pigeons, owls and a free flying hawk. Followinga two year examination process, Jamie was granted an AmericanPoultry Assoc Judges License in June of 98 and is currently theonly licensed judge in Eastern Canada & the youngest in NorthAmerica. Jamie was also recently approved by the BrazilianGovernment to take part in the Golden Lion Tamarin Conservationprogram. These are among the world’s most endangered pri-mates.

Paula Mason (‘94) has worked at the zoo for nine years, initiallyas a summer student With such a variation of animals in her carePaula’s days are anything but dull. After all the animals have beenfed and the chores are done Paula can usually be found in thebarn getting a smile from the horses or giving a little extra atten-tion to those who need it. Paula graduated from the Bio Tech.Program.

Bernie, Jamie and Paula all have very unique and valuable qual-ities that not only ensure the health and happiness of the animals,but also make the zoo a wonderful place to work and visit.

The Magnetic Hill Zoo isthe largest accredited zooin Atlantic Canada. Thereare over 400 animals of100+ species that call thezoo home.

Ag Grads Go to the Zoo

(L to R) Bernie Gallant (‘89), Paula Mason (‘94), and Jamie Carson (‘97)

Career Fair 2001

Shown are some of the alumni who attended the Career Fair held on campus in October.From left to right: Gerald Freeman, Class of 1953, representing DACO Laboratories;

Glen Ells, President of Kings Produce Ltd., NSAC Class of 1953; Bernadette Alain, Classof 1979, representing Statistics Canada and Jack Cox, Sales Representative - FarmServices with Scotsburn Cooperative Services, Class of 1987.

In addition to telling current students about the work they are involved with, alumni enjoythe chance to meet each other at the College’s biennial Career Fair. Shown at this year’s

event are Danny Davidson, Nova Scotia Fruit Growers Association, Class of 1994;Heather Anne Grant, Special Projects Researcher with the Agricultural DevelopmentInstitute, Class of 1998; Beth Gallant, Assistant Service Manager with Reddin Equipment inCharlottetown, PEI, Class of 1999; and Mark Urquhart, representing Cavendish Agri-Services, Class of 1992.

Alumni Support NSAC’s Career Fair

Career Fair Provides a Chance for Alumni to Get Together

Winter 2002 7

Anative of Kings County, Nova Scotia, Byron Beeler graduatedfrom the Nova Scotia Agricultural College in 1956 before

going on to complete his studies at Macdonald College in 1958with a major in Horticulture. He then went on to the University ofToronto where he earned an MSc. degree in Soils and Crops.

Byron joined the Ontario Government and worked in theAgriculture Division from 1958 to 1971. In 1971 Byron went toStewart Seed Company where he became General Manager.

In 1991 Byron became the Head of Ciba-Geigy’s Animal HealthDivision for Canada. With the merger of Ciba and Sandoz, twoSwiss Companies, the new name of Novartis Animal HealthCanada Inc., was given to the company. At Novartis, Byronbecame involved with Crop Protection, Chemicals and Public

Affairs. He became President of the Animal Health Care Division ofNovartis on January 1 1997 until August of this year when heretired.

Mr. Beeler has been involved with the organization and admin-istration of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and served asPresident in 1992-93 and 1993-94. He is a past president of theOntario Institute of Agrologists and a Past Chairman of the AnimalHealth Institute as well as several community organizations. It is lit-tle wonder that Byron was honored by the Ontario Institute ofAgrologists with the award of ‘Distinguished Agrologist’. He wasalso made a ‘Fellow’ of the Agricultural Institute of Canada andgiven Life Membership in the Canadian Seed Growers Association.He is also on the Board of Directors of the Agriculture Hall of Fame.

Distinguished Alumnus Winner 2001The Distinguished AlumnusAward allows the Nova ScotiaAgricultural College AlumniAssociation, on behalf of itsmembership, to recognize theoutstanding contributions ofalumni to the College and totheir community. The 2001Distinguished Alumnus Awardwas presented to Byron Beeler,Class of 1956(L to R) Life President, Class of 1956 Ted MacNintch,Byron Beeler, Class of 1956 and NSAC AlumniAssociation President Clint McLean, Class of 1979.

Continued on page 26

The Development and Alumni Relations office officially beganoperation at the NSAC this fall. The team consists of Jim Goit,

Executive Director, Development and External Relations; StephanieRogers, Coordinator, Alumni Affairs and Public Relations, and Jo-Anne Jarvis-Jordan, Executive Assistant.

The new office is now responsible for all activities dealing withthe NSAC Alumni Association and former students, the NSACFoundation, the Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame, all external rela-tions for the College and the coordination of all media contacts. Inaddition to supporting and coordinating fund raising efforts of thevarious groups at the NSAC, the team in the Development Officeis involved with the Executive group in strategic planning and theday-to-day operation of the NSAC promoting the College andidentifying new partnership opportunities.

The Development and Alumni Relations Office Opens

Jim Goit, Executive Director, Development and External Relations, Jo-Anne Jarvis-Jordan, Executive Assistant, and Stephanie Rogers, Coordinator, Alumni Affairsand Public Relations.

Located in the Principal’s Office in Cumming Hall, theDevelopment Team is ideally situated to deal with visitors to cam-pus. This office now maintains the Friends of NSAC database


8 Agricola News

Why Organic Agriculture?

by Ralph Martin, Director - OACC

The Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada (OACC) Responds to Demand

Organic agricultureincludes all agricultural sys-tems that promote the envi-ronmentally, socially andeconomically sound produc-tion of food and fibres.These systems take local soilfertility as a key to successfulproduction. By respectingthe natural capacity ofplants, animals and thelandscape, it aims to opti-mize quality in all aspects ofagriculture and the environ-ment. Organic agriculturedramatically reduces exter-nal inputs by refraining fromthe use of chemo-syntheticfertilizers, pesticides andpharmaceuticals. Instead itallows the powerful laws ofnature to increase both agri-cultural yields and diseaseresistance. Organic agricul-ture adheres to globallyaccepted principles, whichare implemented within localsocial-economic, geoclimati-cal and cultural settings.

You might ask, “What is organic agriculture?”The International Federation of Organic

Agricultural Movements (IFOAM) defines it well.“Organic agriculture includes all agricultural sys-tems that promote the environmentally, socially and

economically sound production of food and fibres. These systems take local soil fer-tility as a key to successful production. By respecting the natural capacity of plants,animals and the landscape, it aims to optimize quality in all aspects of agricultureand the environment. Organicagriculture dramaticallyreduces external inputs byrefraining from the use ofchemo-synthetic fertilizers, pes-ticides and pharmaceuticals.Instead it allows the powerfullaws of nature to increase bothagricultural yields and diseaseresistance. Organic agricultureadheres to globally acceptedprinciples, which are imple-mented within local social-eco-nomic, geoclimatical and cul-tural settings.”

Current Canadian agriculturalproduction is only about 0.5 -1 per cent organic. However,the current growth rate oforganic agriculture exceeds 25 per cent per year. It is expected by 2010 thatCanadian agricultural production will be at least 5.0 per cent organic. In Germany,the 2010 target is 20 per cent and this is critical mass for an emerging industry.The potential organic food market in the USA and Japan is $US 100 billion. In theUK, the organic market is growing at 40 per cent per year and 70 per cent of

Why OrganicAgriculture?

Winter 2002 9

Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Why Organic Agriculture?

organic food must be imported to the UK. Similarly in Canada,80 - 85 per cent of the organic food sold, is produced outsideCanada.

In Atlantic Canada and beyond, the organic market is increas-ing as consumers request organically produced food. Five yearsago, the potential market for organic products was estimated to be

$3.7 million in Nova Scotia(Hosking 1995) and recentlythe estimate has risen to $20million (Marketing and FoodIndustry Development 1999).Within the next decade, amulti-million dollar organicexport industry to NewEngland, UK and Europe isexpected to create employ-ment on an ongoing basis.Markets for organic food inthe Atlantic provinces arelargely untapped and thedemand in nearby NewEngland and Europe exceedscurrent supplies.

Organic production is moredemanding and difficult interms of knowledge of thebiological process and fieldmanagement skills than con-

ventional agriculture. Therefore, a focused effort and investment inresearch, training and technology transfer is required to assist inter-ested farmers in making the transition to access these marketopportunities.

Organic agriculture is growing and for the purposes of researchand education, organic is identifiable and there are recognizedstandards. There are organic agriculture opportunities that areavailable to many. Consider the opening markets, low cost optionsfor new entrants to agriculture, availability of land in AtlanticCanada, the rural vitality of more people working on organicfarms, the contribution of organic systems to environmental sus-tainability and the positive effects of consumer-farmer links devel-oped by organic food.

Five years ago, thepotential market for

organic products was estimated to be $3.7 million in Nova Scotia(Hosking 1995) andrecently the estimate hasrisen to $20 million(Marketing and FoodIndustry Development1999). Within the nextdecade, a multi-milliondollar organic exportindustry to New England,UK and Europe is expect-ed to create employmenton an ongoing basis.

Sponsors & Funding

Anational centre for education and research in organicagriculture will help quench a growing thirst for knowl-

edge in this fast-emerging sector and give Canada’s produc-ers an advantage over international competition. Success inagriculture and agri-food is becoming more and more relianton education, knowledge and technology. Organic agricultureis presenting producers with excellent opportunities and theOrganic Agriculture Centre of Canada (OACC) will ensureproducers stay on top of the learning curve and that Canadacontinues to enhance its reputation as a world class supplierof organic food.

The national centre in Truro is designed to help industry reachorganic growth targets. Producing organically demandsdetailed knowledge of the biological process and excellentfarm management skills. The centre will ensure organic farm-ers and those interested in making the transition into organicproduction have the expertise they need and will also providethem with leading edge technologies.

The Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada (OACC) was ofi-cially established July 12 2001, at the Nova ScotiaAgricultural College (NSAC) with an announcement byFederal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lyle Vanclief of$914,700 in federal funding. The OACC will pursueresearch and education in organic agriculture, in collabora-tion with colleges and universities across Canada. By virtue ofthe NSAC location on the Atlantic rim, there is convenientaccess to Europe and the OACC will be cost-effectively linked

to European universities with expertisein organic agriculture.

By January 2002, Prince EdwardIsland, Nova Scotia and Alberta, eachcommitted $150,000 to the OACC,over three years. Other provinces areexpected to contribute as well.

The NSAC has become the first degree-granting institution in Canada to create

The centre will ensure organic farmers andthose interested in making the transition intoorganic production have the expertise theyneed and will also provide them with lead-ing edge technologies.

10 Agricola News


an academic position that is specifically related to organic farmingwith the establishment of a prestigious Tier II Canada ResearchChair in Organic Farming, for the research component of theOACC.

In October 2001, an NSERC Strategic Grant, Transition andSustainability Strategies for Organic Farms, was also awarded toOACC researchers who are faculty members of NSAC and theUniversity of Manitoba. The objectives are: to assess whether rumi-nant or monogastric livestock contribute to a more effective transi-tion strategy and/or improve indications of sustainability on organ-ic farms than organic farms without access to livestock; to deter-mine the optimum number of years to include forages in a four yearrotation and to assess the effects of forage management on the suc-cess of transition and sustainabilty.

Description of the OACCOACC will provide broadsupport, in Canada, fororganic farmers and those intransition, through the devel-opment of new research programs, courses anddeployment of effective methods for disseminatinginformation. There will be opportunities for under-graduate and graduate students to be involved in on-farm research and otherinvestigations of organic agriculture.

The motto of the Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada is “Research andEducation: Serving Farmers and Students” with a goal to serve all farmers and all

students. The boundaries of OACC are intended to be open in order to provide use-ful information for conventional farmers as well as those in transition or those whoare certified organic. Students with diverse interests are encouraged to study organicagriculture as a component in their overall appreciation of agriculture.

OACC is constituted at NSAC, directed by a Board of eight members responsible tothe Principal and advised by representatives of an inclusive Advisory Council who willrepresent the larger organic community in Canada. The Board members are, Dr. PhilWarman of NSAC (Chair) , Dr. Martin Entz of the University of Manitoba, Mr. RobertGuilford, Manitoba grain farmer of Canadian Organic Growers, Ms. SusanMacKinnon, Organic Specialist in PEI, Ms. Jennifer Scott, N.S. organic farmer, Mr.Adrian Vermeulen, N.S. transitional farmers, Ms. Jeanne Cruikshank, CanadianCouncil of Grocery Distributors and Dr. Gilles Lavoie, Market and Industry ServicesBranch of AAFC.

OACC will provide broad support, in Canada, for organic farmers and those in tran-sition, through the development of new research programs, courses and deployment ofeffective methods for disseminating information. There will be opportunities for under-graduate and graduate students to be involved in on-farm research and other investi-gations of organic agriculture.

Winter 2002 11


Current OACC Priority Projects Project 1.Web Course DevelopmentBy September, 2002 at least four courses in organic agricul-ture will be available to constitute a certificate in organic agri-culture through the NSAC Continuing Education Department.The four courses will be: 1) The Transition to Organic Farming,2) Organic Dairy Production, 3) Organic Field CropManagement and 4) Composting Skills. Additional courseswill be developed at other universities.

Project 2.Assessing Organic Research NeedsThroughout the first year, farmers, extension workers,researchers and consumers will be consulted in all regions ofCanada, to determine research priorities. Please contact LaurieEagles ([email protected]) if you want to suggest researchneeds. The research needs will be addressed in the objectivesof research grant applications submitted from OACC.

Project 3.Transition StrategiesA focused effort and investment in research, training and tech-nology transfer is required for farmers in transition. Researchwill be conducted in two phases. Phase 1 will be a survey todetermine the successes and problems of farmers who haveconverted from conventional to organic agriculture. Phase 2will involve replicated trials of treatments in several regions ofCanada. The results of the research will be presented in the‘Transition to Organic Farming’ course and on the OACC Website.

Project 4.On-Farm ResearchA coordinated on-farm research and training program will bedeveloped to train students and farmers (organic and transi-tional). In some cases, simple experiments can be conductedon many farms and the data can be analyzed over the loca-tions in a manner similar to cultivar evaluation data. In othercases, farmers may want to test a new idea that they have rea-son to believe will work in their region. This new treatment canbe tested against their current practice. The results of theresearch will be presented in the OACC courses and on theOACC Web site.

Project 5. Information AccessOACC will provide access to current information on organicagriculture, with a scientific basis, organized to meet specificrequirements. The OACC website will hold research results andlinks to other research on organic agriculture. In particular,Canadian research coordinated by OACC will be featured onthe website. The website address is www.organicagcentre.caStories of pertinent information will be regularly published inaccessible farm newspapers across Canada.

Project 6. Market ResearchOACC will contribute to stability in organic production bytracking consumer preferences for specific commodities. A sys-tem of displaying current farm gate price information is beingdeveloped for the OACC website. Market research will alsoprovide the opportunity to investigate the potential for innova-tive arrangements such as Community Supported Agriculture(CSA), involving organic farmers and regional consumers.

Project 7.Environmental HorticultureWhen funding is available, OACC will conduct research onthe management of organic lawns, shrubs, trees and gardens.Current research on golf courses that are partially organic willbe expanded to meet the public demand for courses that arechemical-free.

Dr. Ralph Martin, Director of the OrganicAgriculture Centre of Canada, is a Professor at theNSAC. He earned his B.A. and M.Sc. at CarletonUniversity before completing his Ph. D. at MacDonaldCollege of McGill University in Montreal.

12 Agricola News


Laurie Eagles is the Centre’s Administrative Assistant. Laurie hashad experience with books, balancing budgets and generally run-ning a tight ship when the winds of activity tend to blow.

The Extension Coordinator is Dr. Av Singh, returning to hisMaritime roots. He is completing his role as Research Associate inForage Ecology and Management at the University of Minnesotaand will be at OACC soon. Dr. Singh is a Pan-Canadian withresearch experience and a Ph.D from the University of Manitobaand an M.Sc,. from the University of Guelph. He will be providingextension support to organic specialists and farmers acrossCanada and will be linking them to research in Europe and else-where, that is applicable to situations that develop.

Mr. Derek Lynch, well-known to many organic farmers in AtlanticCanada, has accepted the position of Researcher at OACC. He isclose to completion as a Ph.D. candidate at the University ofGuelph and has also been working as a Research Associate at theAtlantic Pasture Research Centre. As co-manager of AgrosystemsAtlantic, he has provided consulting and research services to theagricultural industry in Atlantic Canada since 1993. He will becoordinating research projects on farms across Canada.

NSAC alumnus, Chris Eyking, Class of 1987 is currently initi-ating an in-vessel composting program on his family farm oper-ation. Chris is doing this for two reasons:

1. His main reason is to alleviate the pressure of any potentialoverload of nutrients on the soil and ground water. This willbe achieved by composting layer litter from the 100,000+hens on site. The resulting product has a very high nutrientvalue to be used on the 750+ acres of cultivated land orretailed as a high end soil amendment for organic gardening.

In Manitoba, Mr. John Hollinger the Organic Specialist of theSoils & Crops Branch of Manitoba Agriculture and Food will con-tribute 20 per cent of his time to OACC extension and researchactivities. Similarly in Alberta, Mr. Mike Dolinski, the OrganicSpecialist of Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development willcontribute 20 per cent of his time to OACC extension and researchactivities.

There are still plans to hire a Post Doctoral Fellow to assist withresearch on farms studying compost and forages in soil and weedmanagement.

For more information, please contact us at:

Phone: (902) 893-7256

E-mail: [email protected]

or visit our website at:

www.organicagcentre.ca

Recent Developments at OACCSeveral people have recently joined the OACC team

In-vessel Composting Program

The OACC Director

2. Secondly Chris is considering as a future goal of using thisproduct as an organic amendment in the greenhouse opera-tion which currently produces hydroponic tomatoes andcucumbers. His plans include combining conventional know-how and latest technology with onfarm organic amendmentsto greenhouse organic production for tomatoes cucumbers andpeppers. There is currently a 15,500 square foot bio shelterdedicated for producing organic amendments on site at theEyking farm operation in Boularderie, Cape Breton Island.

Winter 2002 13

It is traditional to name buildings on the NSAC campus after indi-viduals that have contributed much to the fabric of campus life and

given leadership in the development of particular areas of the insti-tution. On Founders Day, February 14th, 2002, the NSAC namedthe Animal Science and Aquaculture Building, theHaley Institute of Animal Science and Aquacultureafter Dr. Leslie Haley, Principal NSAC from 1989till 1996 and Deputy Minister of the Department ofAgriculture and Marketing from 1996 - 1999.

Dr Haley has dedicated his career to AnimalScience and Aquaculture. Originally from a farmnear Windsor, Nova Scotia, Dr. Haley graduatedfrom the Nova Scotia Agricultural College in 1958and received his Bachelor of Science in Agriculturein 1960 and a Masters of Science in Genetics andAnimal Breeding from the Ontario AgriculturalCollege in 1963. He received his Doctorate inGenetics from the University of California in 1967.

Dr. Haley’s working career began with the NovaScotia Department of Agriculture and Marketing asa Poultry Fieldman before going on for post gradu-ate studies. Following his Doctorate, Dr. Haley wasan Assistant Professor at the University ofSaskatchewan. His appointment as AssistantProfessor of Biology at Dalhousie University in Halifax, brought himback to Nova Scotia in 1970.

It was at Dalhousie that Les brought his genetics background towork on the newly emerging science of Aquaculture as he did pio-neering work in shellfish genetics and management. He appliedmany of the techniques and lessons of animal breeding and man-agement into the aquaculture field. His research background inquantitative and developmental research allowed him to publish

NSAC Names Animal Science Building On Founders Day, February14th, 2002, the NSAC namedthe Animal Science andAquaculture Building, the HaleyInstitute of Animal Science andAquaculture after Dr. LeslieHaley, Principal NSAC from1989 till 1996 and DeputyMinister of the Department ofAgriculture and Marketing from1989 - 1996.

approximately 40 research papers. In addition, he supervisednumerous masters and doctorate students in Biology and ScienceEducation Research.

Les never forgot his roots with agriculture. In 1989 he wasnamed Principal of the Nova ScotiaAgricultural College a position heheld until April 1, 1996 when he wasappointed Deputy Minister of theNova Scotia Department ofAgriculture and Marketing. Duringhis time with the NSAC andDepartment he was instrumental inproviding the leadership to build theRuminant Animal Center and theAquaculture Center wing on theAnimal Science Building. TheAquaculture degree program wasalso a vision of Dr. Haley, an intentiondeclared during his installation cere-mony.

It is fitting therefore that the AnimalScience/Aquaculture building benamed the Haley Institute of AnimalScience and Aquaculture in honour of

the 9th Principal of the NSAC and a man who has used his edu-cation in Agriculture to contribute to the development of science inthe Animal Science and Aquaculture sectors.

Ceremonies took place on February 14th, 2002 on the NSACcampus. This is but one of a series of Founder’s day events lead-ing to the Centennial anniversary of the College in 2005.

Dr. Leslie Haley

Les never forgot his rootswith agriculture. In 1989 he was named Principal of the Nova ScotiaAgricultural College a position he held until April 1, 1996 when he was appointed DeputyMinister of the Nova Scotia Department ofAgriculture and Marketing.

14 Agricola News

One of the first activities for the team was to develop a listof priorities that the NSAC has identified as potential for

fundraising efforts by faculty, staff, alumni and friends of theNSAC. This list is the result of that analysis. Additional detailson these priorities are available by contacting staff of theDevelopment and Alumni Relations Office. Donations will besought for these funds through annual fundraising efforts,major gift solicitation and corporate sponsorship.

Research Program Matching Funds

The NSAC has been very successful in the last few years inattracting support for research infrastructure and personnelthrough various government programs. The CanadianFoundation for Innovation (CFI) had awarded support for theagronomy, fur and poultry programs. The Canada ResearchChairs program has allocated four positions to the NSAC.There are several applications for funding from the AtlanticInnovation Fund (AIF). All of these programs require an ele-ment of ‘matching funds’ to capture the full amount of the fed-eral grant. Money is sought from provincial sources or frominternal budgets of the NSAC, however our ability to meet allthe required amounts is increasingly strained. For this reasonwe are turning to private sources for the required matchingamounts.

The NSAC will establish a fund where matching fundingcan be found for the various projects. In some cases there willbe sub-funds created that will be endowed for long term sup-port of specific programs. In other cases the matching fundswill be expended in support of the project on a one time basis.Committees made up of various interest groups will work toraise and allocate the funds necessary for each project. Thereare already several projects currently active and looking formatching funds and others will be established as warranted.

NSAC Creates Fundraising Priority List

ScholarshipsThe NSAC has one of the best student scholarship programs ofany university in Canada. This year for example it dispersedmore than $750,000 in awards. In addition to the manynamed scholarships sponsored by individuals and organiza-tions (both endowed and contributed to annually) there aremany other scholarships funded by the College and govern-ment for students. There is an additional need to secure andexpand these awards by other means. It takes approximately$25,000 in an endowed fund to support a $1,000 annualaward. The NSAC would like to have a $1,000,000 fund tosupport its general scholarship program. In addition, althoughthere are many undergraduate scholarships, there is a need toexpand the awards to support graduate studies and interna-tional students.

Teaching Technology Development FundOne of the most important aspects of the program at the NSACis the teaching environment in the various classrooms, labora-tories and library at the College. It is critical to keep pace withthe technology in teaching as students will compare their teach-ing experience at the NSAC with what is available at otherinstitutions. While it is sometimes possible to acquire newequipment on a one time basis from various programs, there isa need for a program that provides a long term, consistentbase for the replacement and improvement of equipment overthe years.

Infrastructure Capital FundThe NSAC is fortunate to have some of the best facilities of anyuniversity in the province. However there is a constant need tobe able to maintain, upgrade and expand as the years go by

Organized fundraising hasbeen identified as an importantelement of the activities of theNSAC and the establishment ofthe Development and AlumniRelations Office is recognitionof that priority.

FUNDRAISING PRIORITIES

Winter 2002 15

and demands change. Provincial budgets have not kept pace withthis demand and an additional source of funding is required tohelp with these capital projects.

Human Resource Development FunThe faculty, staff and students are the real strength of the NSAC. Itis important to have the resources available for continuous devel-opment of that strength. This fund is designed to provide a basefor supporting human resource activity such as visiting professor fel-lowships, sabbatical leaves, travel, conference attendance, studentleadership programs etc.

Library Development FundSupport of the Library has always been a priority of the NSAC. Atrust fund has long been established to help support the functioningof the library helping to purchase new equipment, books and peri-odicals. The library development fund needs additional capital tobecome self-sustaining.

Athletics Development FundAthletics is an important element of student life on the NSAC cam-pus and we are fortunate to have an excellent Athletic Centre and

The poultry industry is one of the most dynamic of all the livestockindustries in modern agriculture. As the industry changes, so too

must the scope and focus of poultry research. The unique andregional differences in how poultry are raised in Atlantic Canadacompared to the rest of North America has resulted in the estab-lishment of specific research priorities for the Atlantic poultry indus-try.

The Atlantic Poultry Research Institute (APRI) was formed toaddress concerns of the poultry industry in the Atlantic region byconducting poultry research and training poultry personnel. Theinstitute is managed out of the Nova Scotia Agricultural Collegeand represents all sectors of the Atlantic poultry industry, egg,chicken, turkey, hatchery, processing and feed manufacturing.With the development of the Atlantic Poultry Research Institute andacquisition of personnel to conduct poultry research we are posedto address the concerns for poultry research in the Atlantic region.The current limitation is the condition of the research facilities atNSAC.

Lack of environmental control and obsolete production systemslimit the application of research results to commercial practice.Recently a subcommittee was formed to spearhead a major projectto see new facilities built at the NSAC. Full replacement of the poul-try facilities is the goal of this committee, with an aggressive twoyear building plan. The proposed new facilities will include a

committed staff to support it. However, there is always a need foradditional funding sources for projects and activities such as train-ing, team travel etc.

Emerging Opportunities FundThere will always be the need to respond rapidly to emergingopportunities in academic, research or administrative programs.This fund will stand as a source of capital for such initiatives, some-times being used in partnership with other initiatives and sometimeson it’s own. The funds could be used for the development of pro-motional materials, the rapid development of course materials andthe initial delivery of trial programs.

The NSAC would like to thank all those that have contributed in oneway or another financially to the College over the years. You mayexpect the NSAC to be more direct in it request for support in thefuture. Your financial support helps to strengthen not only the valueof the degree or diploma that you may have received from theInstitution but it is an excellent way for you to give back to the insti-tution ensuring the success of future generations of students.

hatchery, environmentally controlled housing with computerizedmonitoring systems for poultry reared on the floor as well as incages, a slaughter and meat processing facility equipped to per-form research involving food safety and meat quality issues andupgrades to the College’s existing feed mill. The preliminary esti-mate of the cost to construct the new facilities is approximately$5.3 million.

The NSAC, APRI, Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada and theAtlantic poultry industry have recently reaffirmed their commitmentto continue poultry research and teaching in the region. A contin-uation of this commitment by upgrading the poultry facilities atNSAC is now needed. Money should be available from the feder-al and provincial governments, but it must be matched by contri-butions from private sources. Representatives of the regional poul-try and allied industries have been made aware of the need forthese matching funds. Substantial contributions to this project willbe recognized and can be promoted by associating the donor witha specific component of the facility. The Canada Foundation forInnovation is one of the key funding agencies that has beenapproached. Currently they have conditionally approved$202,000 towards the Food Safety and Meat Quality researchcomponent. On January 30th, the Canada Foundation forInnovation announced the successful applicants for 2002. The

The Renewal of the Poultry Facilities at the NSAC


FUNDRAISING PRIORITIES

16 Agricola News

The Nova Scotia Agricultural College(NSAC) and Co-op Atlantic signed a co-

operation agreement on Saturday, October20th, 2001 to facilitate and intensifyexchanges between the two organizations.

Garth Coffin, Principal, NSAC andBryan Inglis, Vice President, AgricultureDivision, Co-op Atlantic, officially signedthe agreement during the MacRae Librarybreakfast during Homecoming celebrationsat the College October 20th, 2001.

The purpose of the framework agree-ment is to encourage the collaboration andexchange of employees, students,researchers and teachers. The agreementcalls for both parties to identify and devel-op research and teaching programs, jointinternational development projects, student,staff and professor exchanges and the pro-motion of the co-operative structure as aviable business option at the NSAC.

“Co-op Atlantic and in particular theAgricultural Division, is proud to be associ-

New Co-operation Agreement Signed Between Co-op Atlantic and NSAC

ated with NSAC in this initiative,” saidInglis. “Co-op Atlantic has had a longinformal relationship with NSAC, in fact,for the past 30 years, Co-op Atlantic hasoffered three bursaries and a scholarship tostudents pursuing careers in agriculturethrough the NSAC as well, many of ouremployees and members attended theCollege,” he added. “It is very appropriatethat we formalize our relationship as weprepare to celebrate our 75th Anniversaryin 2002.”

The Atlantic co-operative system is anenergetic and vibrant model, which is help-ing to shape the changing face of agricul-ture in Atlantic Canada.

“We have already begun work on sev-eral joint projects of mutual interest to ourorganizations” said Coffin. “We haveentered into discussions about joint trainingprogram possibilities for agricultural storeemployees through the NSAC’s Center forContinuing and Distance Education and

Ernest L. Fage, Minister of the Nova ScotiaDepartment of Agriculture and Fisheries, ispleased to announce the 2001 NovaScotia inductees into the AtlanticAgricultural Hall of Fame.

The late Douglas Bragg of Collingwood,Cumberland County. “Doug Bragg was a

entrepreneur, avisionary and aleader in the wildblueberry industry.His contribution wasnot only evident inhis successful pro-duction of blueber-ries but also in thedevelopment of har-vest technology.”

said Minister Fage. A graduate of the NovaScotia Agricultural College, Doug joinedBragg Lumber Company as Manager andeventually became President. He served asVice President of Oxford Frozen Foods and

Co-op Human Resources Department,” headded. “In addition we are working withthe Co-op to identify businesses in the Co-op system that agricultural business studentsat the NSAC can use for the developmentof case studies. This is just the beginning”

Both the NSAC and Co-op Atlantic aremajor contributors to the agricultural econ-omy in the Atlantic region. This renewedpartnership will strengthen the ability ofeach organization to help the sector meetthe challenges facing it.

Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame Inducts Four New MembersVice President of Amherst Cable and Tri-Town Cable Companies, finishing hiscareer as President of Douglas BraggEnterprises Limited. Mr. Bragg was also anactive member of the Wild BlueberryProducers Association of Nova Scotia.From 1979 to 1981 he served as aDirector and was an active member of theResearch Committee from the time of itsinception until the fall of 1996. He was aFounding Director of the Nova ScotiaBlueberry Institute and was instrumental inthe early days of its development and build-ing of the research field station at Debert. In1995 Doug received the Wild BlueberryProducers Association of Nova ScotiaAward of Recognition. Doug Bragg wasnominated by the Wild Blueberry ProducersAssociation of Nova Scotia in recognitionof his contributions to the agricultural indus-try. The 2001 inductees from the other Atlanticprovinces include Dr. George Wood,

New Brunswick; the late Eric Williams, Newfoundland and Leo McIsaac, PrinceEdward Island. The contributions of all fourmen were recognized at a ceremony todayat the Nova Scotia Agricultural College inOctober.

The Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Famehonours members of the agricultural com-munity for outstanding contributions to theindustry, community and farm organiza-tions.

For more information please contact: Jim Goit, NSACphone:902-893-7950E-mail: [email protected]

Douglas Bragg

Eric Williams Leo McIssacGeorge Wood

Dr. Garth Coffin, Principal, NSAC and BryanInglis, Vice President, Agriculture Division, Co-opAtlantic

Winter 2002 17

Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... Around & About.... A l u m n i N e w s

Melanie Laird (‘94)Graduated in 1994 with an Animal Science degree. Movedto Fredericton and began working with the ProvincialGovernment in 1995 and is currently an AquacultureDevelopment Advisor in the Department of Agriculture,Fisheries and Aquaculture where her focus is farmed salmonin the Bay of Fundy. Completed the New BrunswickAdvanced Agricultural Leadership Program in 1998.

Danny Phinney (‘86)Hello my name is Danny Phinney, Class of 86. I’m a secondgeneration NSAC grad. My father, Arthur is from the class of61. I’m still single and living in Paradise in the AnnapolisValley. I’m in partnership on the family dairy farm with myparents. I’m also employed with NS Animal Breeders on acasual basis. I’ve been active in a number of organizationsover the years being past director and president of the coun-ty Federation of Agriculture, past director of the AnnapolisValley Exhibition, director of the West Nova Holstein Club,director of the NS Holstein Branch and director of WestNova Agro Commodities Ltd. I enjoy doing some travellingincluding spending seven months working on a dairy farm inAustralia under an IAEA program in 1990. During the win-ter I do some curling. I look forward to serving on the NSACAlumni Board.

Gordon Murray (‘01)Gordon Murray, know as Sonny, graduated from the NSACin May of 2001 with a degree in Plant Science. He beganwork as a Crops Specialist at Scotian Gold Co-operativeLimited in the Valley on March 15th, 2000. Originally fromRiver John, Sonny now lives in Berwick.

Wendy (Hollis) Burns (‘97)I was born and raised in Moncton NB. I completed myBachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1997. I marriedNathan Burns ( Class of 99) in June 2000 and we areexpecting our first child in April 2002. Recently Nathan andI purchased his family’s egg farm and I am now helping torun Burns Poultry Farm in Freetown, Prince Edward Island.

Lisa Ashworth (‘94)Lisa (Scott) Ashworth, P.Ag.: B.Sc. ‘94, M.Sc. ‘99 (& B.Ed.‘97 Mt. A.) I married Derek Ashworth (‘97) on August 21, 1999. We livein Maple View (near Plaster Rock), New Brunswick. Derek isfarming full time, milking approximately 240 cows. I am cur-rently working on curriculum development for a senior highagri-science course, and will be teaching this pilot course toa Grade 12 class at John Caldwell School next semester. Ourfirst child, Logan, was born on October 17, 2000.

Alumni AssociationExecutive Committee &

Board of Directors 2001-2002

Executive

PresidentClint McLean (‘79)

Past-PresidentEvans Estabrooks (‘62)

TreasurerLori Kittilsen (‘89)

Alumni Affairs CoordinatorStephanie Rogers

Board of Directors

Retiring in 2004

Melanie Laird, (‘94)

Gordon Murray (‘01)

Wendy (Hollis) Burns (‘97)

Danny Phinney (’86)

Retiring in 2003

Bradley Briggs (‘99)

Patricia Bishop (‘99)

Stephen R. Spinney (‘86)

Lisa Scott (‘94)

Retiring in 2002

Nancy Crowe (‘78)

Jeff Morton (‘79)

Clinton McLean (‘79)

Don Allen (‘63)

Our New Alumni Association Directors

Melanie Laird

Danny Phinney

Gordon Murray

Wendy (Hollis) Burns

Lisa Ashworth

18 Agricola News


Homecoming Weekend 2001October 19 th , 20th , 2001

There was a record attendance at theAnnual General Meeting held dur-

ing the luncheon program in Jenkins Hall.The Distinguished Alumnus Award was pre-sented to Byron Beeler, Class of 1956 andother inaugural volunteer awards present-ed.

The second Annual NSACAA SilentAuction and reception was held onSaturday evening in Cumming Hall. Allproceeds from the NSAC AlumniAssociation Silent Auction support theNSAC Students Emergency Fund. This fundaids students who encounter unusually diffi-cult financial hardship throughout the acad-emic year. Items ranged from a Dill Atlantic

Giant pumpkin and seeds to local artworkand handcrafted jewellery. Sincere thanksare extended to all donors and bidderswithout whose support this event would notbe possible. Nearly $1800.00 was raisedin support of the cause.

It was fitting in the International Year ofthe Volunteer that the Alumni Associationestablished a volunteer recognition pro-gram in 2001. The volunteer recognitionaward serves to express the appreciation ofthe Association for the involvement of alum-ni on committees and the Board ofDirectors. Teri Kennedy, the NSAC studentwho worked for the Association during thesummer of 2001 developed a certificate to

MacRae Library BreakfastThe MacRae library also sponsored the 12th annual buffet breakfast during Homecoming

weekend. Breakfast attendees had the pleasure of opening the display which drawsmaterials from the Co-op Atlantic Collection in the Agricola Archives. Historically co-oper-atives have functioned as an alternative to the more competitive and individualistic formsof business. The early 20th century saw phenomenal growth in the number of cooperativesin the region. NSAC, in its early history as well as in subsequent decades, was linked towhat has become known as ‘The Cooperative Movement’ The theme for this year’sHomecoming breakfast and Exhibition was ‘NSAC: In the Spirit of Co-operation.’ (Seeadditional information entitled New Co-operation Agreement signed between Co-opAtlantic and NSAC on page 16 of this issue.)

Close to 100 alumni and theirfamilies were welcomed back tothe Nova Scotia AgriculturalCollege October 19 - 20, 2001for the second annualHomecoming Weekend in con-junction with College Royal cele-brations and NSAC AthleticReunion activities. 1.

2.

acknowledge alumni as they reach five,ten, 15 years of service to the Association.Judy Grant, Class of 1978 (Photo 1) andBernadette Alain, Class of 1979 (Photo 2)received awards for five and ten years ofservice to the Association.

The Alumni Association also establisheda donor recognition program in the pastyear. The purpose of the donor recognitionprogram is to encourage financial supportto the Association and to recognize fre-quency of donations as opposed to theamount of support. A certificate has beendeveloped to recognize five, ten, 15 timedonors to the Association. At theAssociation’s annual meeting in October,

Alistar Marshall, Scotian Gold Cooperative, wasguest speaker at the annual breakfast.

Winter 2002 19


3.4.

Class Shield Awards were presented to those class years withthe most graduates in attendance during Homecoming week-

end. Winners of the Junior Class Shield Award were members of

Blair Bonnyman, Class of 1951 andGeorge LaBelle, Class of 1955, receivedrecognition as five time donors and WinLangille, Class of 1940, was recognized asa 20 time donor to the Association. Otherhonourees were not in attendance.

The Association’s DistinguishedAlumnus Award was presented to ByronBeeler, Class of 1956.(See article this issue)Ted MacNintch, President of the Class of1956, read the citation. Bob Oulton, Classof 1941, was on hand to receive a 60 yearpin. Past-Principal Bill Jenkins, Class of1938, was congratulated on celebratinghis 85th birthday the day before the meet-ing. The Class of 1950 (Photo 3) was rec-

ognized for exemplary leadership demon-strated through the establishment of a bur-sary fund in recognition of their 50thanniversary in 2000. Their class gift to theCollege in recognition of their honour yearwas set out as a challenge for future honouryear classes. Sandra Murphy (Photo 4) wasrecognized for her close to 20 years of sup-port to the Alumni Association with a spe-cial certificate of appreciation. Recognitionwas also extended to the four retiringDirectors from the Board — JohnHutchings, Class of 1978; Roy MacKenzie,Class of 1973; Barry Russell, Class of1976; and Walter Termeer, Class of 1985.

Senior Class Shield Award

(Board member Jeff Morton presents theShield to Class rep John McLean)

Intermediate Class Shield Award

(Board member Jeff Morton presents theShield to Dr. Garth Coffin, representing theClass of 1956)

Junior Class Shield Award

(Board member Jeff Morton presents theShield to Class rep Shelley MacEwen

the Class of ‘81 Intermediate Class Shield winners were the Classof ‘51and the Senior Class Shield Award was presented to theClass of ‘41.

Class Shield Winners

NSAC Founder’s DayFebruary 14th, 2002

2002 CCAA Men’s BasketballChampionship

March 21-23, 2002.Homecoming Reunion Weekend

October 18 - 19th, 2002NSAC Octoberfest 5 K Run

October 19, 2002

Varsity Alumni WeekendOctober 19, 2002

Autumn AssemblyOctober 23, 2002

Agricultural Hall of FameInductionCeremony

October 23, 2002

Festive Craft Market November 16-17, 2002

Atlantic Agricultural Sciences & Technology Workshop

November 2002

Reunion 2002Calendar of EventsHonour Year Classes ending in 7 and 2NSAC Campus October 18,19, 2002

20 Agricola News

NSAC Alumni AssociationScholarships

Clint McLean, President, NSAC AlumniAssociation, presented the two AssociationEntrance $1,000 scholarships during AutumnAssembly ceremonies held recently at NSAC. Thisyear’s recipients were Rudy Antohe Ashkelon,Israel, a first year degree student majoring in PlantScience and Paul McClelland, Oxford, NS, a firstyear Engineering student.

AUTUMN ASSEMBLY 2001AUTUMN ASSEMBLY 2001Outstanding academic performance was honoured at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College with thepresentation of more than $724,400 in scholarships and bursaries — the highest in the College’s his-tory to 237 students. The award presentations were made on Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2001 during theschool’s annual Autumn Assembly program.

First Class of 1950 BursaryThe Class of 1950, when they celebrated the 50th anniversary of their graduation from NSAC in 2000,established a bursary fund as a way of recognizing their golden anniversary. The College extends thanksto the members of the Class of 1950 for providing this long serving support to students. At the annual meet-ing of the Alumni Association the Class received a special recognition award in appreciation of the estab-lishment of the bursary fund. Sandy Hunter, Northport, NS, was the first recipient of the $500 Class of1950 Bursary recently awarded during Autumn Assembly ceremonies at NSAC. Jack Johnson, shown withSandy, attended the ceremony to make the presentation on behalf of the Class of 1950.

Stuart F. Allaby Graduate StudiesScholarship

The $1,000 Stuart F. Allaby Graduate StudiesScholarship was presented to Adam Cook, Truro,NS, a Masters student, during 2001 AutumnAssembly ceremonies at the Nova ScotiaAgricultural College. Adam is shown with Stuart F.Allaby, Class of 1949.

Gordon B. Kinsman MemorialGraduate Scholarship

Peter Burgess, Truro, NS, M.Sc. student at NSAC,received the $500 Gordon B. Kinsman, NSACClass of 1947, Memorial Graduate Scholarshipduring recent Autumn Assembly ceremonies held atNSAC. Peter is pictured with Brian Kinsman, whorepresented the Kinsman family.

Scholarship WinnersClint McLean, President, NSAC Alumni Association, was on hand at Autumn Assembly to present scholar-ships maintained by the NSAC Alumni Association. From left to right: Susan Hunter, Halifax, NS, a fourthyear B.Sc.(Agr.) student majoring in Animal Science, who received the $1,700 A.C. Neish Memorial TrustScholarship; Meidrym Hebda, Maitland, NS, a fourth year B.Sc.(Agr.) student majoring in Animal Science,recipient of the $600 Angus and Tena MacLellan Memorial Scholarship; Ryan Riordan, Pokeshaw, NB, asecond year Animal Science degree student receiving the $600 A.B. Banks Memorial Scholarship; andTrevor Bezanson, Upper Stewiacke, NS, a second year Engineering student who received the $600Donald E. Clark Memorial Scholarship.

Cliff Retson Memorial Bursary

The $750 Cliff Retson (NSAC Class of 1934)Memorial Bursary was presented during AutumnAssembly ceremonies at NSAC to Susan Tabu,Nairobi, Kenya. Susan is a first year B.Sc.(Agr.)student. Dr. William Jenkins, Past-Principal, NSAC,represented the Retson family and made the pre-sentation to Susan.


NSAC Distinguished alumnuswinner Mr. Dick Huggard(Class of 1956) joins the Boardfor the first time for a three-yearterm, Macdonald College ofMcGill University B.Sc (Agr.)Animal Husbandry 1958, M.Sc.Animal Nutrition 1965. DickHuggard joined the Nova ScotiaDepartment of Agriculture andMarketing and enjoyed an illus-trious career with theDepartment that spanned morethan three decades. During his

36 years with the NSDAM, Dick Huggard worked very closelywith farm people, industry leaders, scientists, College students,federal and provincial government officials and many others topromote and develop the agricultural industry both in NovaScotia and across Canada. In September 1991 Dick wasappointed Deputy Minister of the Department, a position heheld until his retirement in October 1994. Active in many com-munity and professional organizations, Dick has served asPresident of the Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame, the CanadianAgricultural Hall of Fame, the Nova Scotia Institute ofAgrologists and both the Eastern Branch and CanadianSocieties of Animal Science. In 1978-79 he served as Presidentof the Agricultural Institute of Canada, the second person fromNova Scotia to be elected to this position.

Reappointed for an additionalthree-year term by an Order

in Council, The NSACFoundation Board welcomesThe Honourable MargaretNorrie McCain, BA, MountAllison University, B.SWUniversity of Toronto. She waspresented with an HonouraryDoctor of Laws degree from theUniversity of New Brunswick,Mount Allison University, St.Thomas University, University ofMoncton and University of

Toronto. In October of 1994 she was invested as Dame ofGrace in the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. Johnof Jerusalem. Throughout her career Mrs. McCain has beenactive in organizations which promote education, music and thearts at the provincial and national level. She was a member of

Winter 2002 21


As well, NSAC alumnus SherryPorter joins the team. NSAC alum-nus Sherry Porter, Class of1975, joins the NSAC FoundationBoard for a three year term. Sherryis currently a member of the NSACFoundation Investment Committeeand no stranger to the NSAC com-munity. Sherry joined the NovaScotia Department of Agricultureand Marketing as a MarketingSpecialist upon receipt of herBachelor’s Degree in 1977. Sherryhas continually advanced through-

out her career moving from a variety of increasingly prestigiouspositions including, Vice President, Atlantic Region, CanadianCouncil of Grocery Distributors, Director of Public Affairs, Sobey’sGroup, President & CEO of the Canadian Association of ChainDrug Stores to her current position as a Partner with CaldwellPartners International.

The concept of giving back is important to Sherry as evidencedby her wide variety of community involvement including participat-ing as Chair of the Camp Hill Foundation Marketing Campaign,Co-Chair of the Women of Distinction Program for the TorontoYWCA and Chair of the Corporate Campaign for the Metro UnitedWay in Halifax.

Sherry’s position on the Board is one of several she is currentlycommitted to including Chair of the Pier 21 Society, a member ofthe Board of Symphony Nova Scotia, the Canadian Breast CancerFoundation and the Chamber of Commerce.

NSAC Foundation Welcomes Three New Directorsthe Mount Allison University Board of Regents and served asChancellor. She is a founding member of the Muriel McQueenFergusson Foundation in New Brunswick whose mission is the elim-ination of family violence through public education and research. In1994 she was appointed Lieutenant- Governor of the Province ofNew Brunswick - the first female to hold this position and served inthat role until 1997. She is a member of the Board of Directors forthe National Ballet School; Canadian Battle of NormandyFoundation; Women’s College Hospital Foundation; Voices forChildren; Havergal College; Beatrice House and the CanadianLiving Foundation’s Breakfast for Learning program. She is on theAdvisory Council for the Canadian Women’s Foundation and YorkUniversity’s Centre for Women’s Studies and Feminist Research. InApril 1998, Mrs. McCain was appointed by the Secretariate forChildren, Province of Ontario, co-chair of the “Early Years Study”.In January 1999, she was appointed Chair of the National BalletSchool. She is married to G. Wallace F. McCain of FlorencevilleNB.

22 Agricola News

BARNYARD BANTER

Barnyard Banter highlights theaccomplishments of NSAC Alumni.If you have moved, earned a pro-motion or another degree, mar-ried, had children or have anyother news you’d like to passalong to classmates, let us know.Email submissions may be directedto: [email protected]

Class of 1973

MITCHELL, Bob......Graduated in1973 from the Ag. Eng. Technicianprogram. Great fun and greatfriends. NSAC is a very specialmemory in my life. I had the pleasureof working in the Eng dept. from1976 to 1981 as an instructor. Imarried Maureen Kelly ( Grad of ‘77Plant Science Tech program) andhave had two children who are now23 and 18 years old. We moved toVictoria in 1981 and have beenhere since then. I would love to hearfrom anyone who knows me, pleasedrop me a line. Bob Mitchell<[email protected]>

Class of 1978

O’BRIEN, Glenda (White)......Patand I (both class of ‘78 grads)recently moved to Whitby,Ontario asKraft transferred me to Scarboroughto be the Plant Manager in aJello/Magic Moments Pudding Cupfactory. We have three sons, two inhigh school and one in Grade 8.We spend most of our free time tra-versing hockey arenas and gettingused to city life. We look forward toseeing old friends at the RoyalWinter Fair and if you are visitingthe greater Toronto area, we areonly a few kilometers off the 401 - ordrop us a note via [email protected]

Class of 1983

PATTERSON, Kenneth...... Kenneth(Class of `83 & `84) and Petra(Maas) (Class of `84) have four chil-dren, Caitlin 13, Samantha 11,Paulina 7 and Stacy 5. We are stillon the home place in Boularderie,Cape Breton.

Class of 1985

JONES, Greg......In 1990 Gregearned his designation as aChartered Accountant and in 1998he completed the CanadianSecurities Course. He recently joinedthe firm of M&A Canada as an asso-ciate. M&A is a Nova Scotia firmdedicated to assisting the owners ofsuccessful private companies selltheir business. Their mandate is toprofessionally manage the sale ofcompanies they are proud to repre-sent. Greg spends his spare time withthis wife and four children on theirfarm just outside of Truro

Class of 1986

CARTER, Cheryl M (Anderson)......We are currently living in a com-munity called Weilding just north ofthe city of Vienna, Austria. Doug isworking for Lafarge in a technicalcenter in Vienna and traveling toRomania frequently to three cementplants there. The position here inVienna is 3-5 years. We have beenhere since April 2001.

Class of 1990

MCNIVEN, Lisa Ann......daughter ofPaula Gallant and Glenn McNivengraduated from the CanadianCollege of Nathuropathic Medicinein Toronto, Ontario as aNathuropathic Doctor. In June, 1995Lisa graduated from the AberdeenSchool of Nursing in New Glasgow,Nova Scotia. Lisa also received herBachelor of Science degree from theNova Scotia Agricultural College inassociation with Dalhousie Universityin 1990. Lisa will begin practicingMedicine in the Yorkville area ofToronto.

Class of 1993

LANGILL, Darria ......I am currently inthe Truro area working with commu-nity initiatives for watershed manage-ment and fish habitat restoration. Iwould love to hear how others aredoing, my email is [email protected] Cheers.

GOWAN, Traci and Lisa (Orlando),would like to announce the arrival ofEmily Margaret on February 9th,2001. She weighed 8 lb 6 oz, and isa sister for Tyler, 4. We are living inAmherst, Nova Scotia we are bothworking for AAFC at the NappanResearch Farm outside of Amherst astechnicians.

Class of 1994

TIBBETTS, Sean......I completed myB.Sc. (Animal Science) at NSAC andmy M.Sc. (Animal Nutrition) atNSAC and have since being doingfish nutrition research with theNational Research Council inHalifax. I just returned from complet-ing a diploma course at Texas A&MUniversity in College Station, Texasin Fish Feed Production Technology.

Class of 1995

BROWNELL, Heidi (Nordin) Class of1995 was married in 1996 and hada baby boy, Daniel, October 2000.CARNELLEY, Tracy (Shinners)......Myhusband Trevor and I were marriedin 1999. We met while I was com-pleting my PhD at the University ofAlberta. We now live in CarmanMB, and I work for MB Agricultureand Food as the provincial potatopest management specialist.

URQUHART, Laurie... Is currentlyworking in Halifax as anInstructional Designer (how’s that fora switch - from Animal Science toInformation Technology!?!). Emailaddress [email protected]

Class of 1996

GOWAN, Traci and Lisa (Orlando),would like to announce the arrival ofEmily Margaret on February 9th,2001. She weighed 8 lb 6 oz, andis a sister for Tyler, 4. We are livingin Amherst, Nova Scotia we are bothworking for AAFC at the NappanResearch Farm outside of Amherst astechnicians.

GARDINER, Yvette...... I graduatedfrom NSAC in 1996. I received myM.Sc. from UPEI in May 2001 andam currently employed with the PEIDepartment of Agriculture andForestry as an AgricultureInformation Officer.

Class of 1997

BROTHERS, Jason......a NetworkAdministrator with NSAC AcademicComputing Services for the past sixyears will be leaving this position atthe end of October. Jason will bemoving to Provo, Utah to be theHardware/Software Test Associate:NIMS Test Engineer & MyRealboxSystems Administrator for Novell Inc.Congratulations and Best wishes toJason

WHITE, Lisa......Hey there kids. Thisis Lisa White for the class of ‘97. Still

land locked out here on the flat, flatprairies. I am actually finished mymasters and working as the AnimalProjects Coordinator for a little com-pany called the Saskatoon ColostrumCompany. Still butting heads on therugby pitch and loving every minuteof it. I really miss all the friends ofhome and the weather!! All we getout here is sun, day after day. Andthe variation between +40 and -40 istoo much to handle sometimes. Takecare all, and drop me a [email protected]

BURNS, Wendy ( Hollis) ......HelloAggies, I graduated in 1997, movedto PEI to work with Cavendish Farms,got married last June to NathanBurns (Class of 1999) and recentlywe purchased his family poultryfarm. I am now home full time help-ing to run the farm. We would love tohear how all our classmates aredoing or if you come to PEI, give usa call (902) 887-2156 [email protected]>

PLUME, Diane......hello everyone! Ihave been living out here in the greatWest since I graduated in 1997 andlove it. I am working for TERAEnvironmental Consultants as anEnvironmental Planner. I am veryexcited to be coming home forChristmas. I would love to hear fromany fellow school mates! [email protected]

Class of 1998

HUMBLE, Shauna (Mellish) hasrecently completed anMSc(Cropping Systems) from theUniversity of Manitoba. Shauna andAngus Mellish (Class of 1998) wereunited in marriage on October 6th,2001 in Charlottetown, PE. The cou-ple currently reside in New Perth, PE

DEMERCHANT, Troy and his wifeAmanda (Jenkins) had a little boynamed Travis in July 2000.

BRIGGS, Derek and his wife Sarahad a bay girl named Allyson onSeptember 28th, 2001.

CALDWELL, Treasa......Treasa hasrecently completed her M.Sc. at theNova Scotia AgriculturalCollege/Dalhousie University. Shemajored in Plant Physiology and herthesis focused on drought tolerancein vegetable crops, particularly toma-toes, onions and processing carrots.She also has a B.Sc. inEnvironmental Biology from theNSAC. She has worked as a summerresearch assistant with both the Plant

Winter 2002 23


Science Department at the NSACand with the Nova Scotia CropDevelopment Institute. Treasa hasalso done primary production andsales for a family-owned mushroomoperation. Her focus to-date hasbeen research, with extensive expe-rience in technology transfer withboth large and small agriculturalproducers. Treasa is already work-ing and can be reached at (902)896-2345.

LEGGE, Andrea...... I am currentlycompletely my 4th and final year atthe AVC. I am also happy toannounce that I am engaged to bemarried next August to classmate,Tracy Matthews from VA.

GENGE, Annette......Hi Class of‘98! Just a quick hello to theEconomics class of ‘98. I am cur-rently living in Corner Brook, NF...still haven’t left the ROCK. I amcurrently working with CIBC as aPersonal Banker. Would love tohear from fellow [email protected]

HENNIGAR, Shannon......I havebeen living in Ontario for the pasttwo years working as a barn man-ager for a major swine operation. Iwork independently at a 4000 headSegregated Early Wean facility.

GREEN, Melinda ( Miller)......Hellofellow AGGIES!! I’m a 1998Animal Science grad. I’m livingback in my home communityagain...on the farm. Miss secondfloor Chapman [email protected]

WHELAN, Trina...... Hi to the Classof ‘98! Miss you all. I am still work-ing in Labrador and loving it here!Would love to hear from theEconomics Class of 98. [email protected]

LEONARD, Erin......Hi Aggies! Justwanted to drop a note to say hi. Iattended AC from 96-98. I’m nowin my final year of vet school at AVCin PEI. Looking for lost friends, so ifany read this, write back please! Imiss you all! Hi to Katie Hirtle,Helga, Pelham, Melanie Rose, TonyStevens, Robin Corkum, Bruce,Tanya Morse, Bev Palmeter, Carrie,Kerry Munn, Megan Williams,Sabrina, Lori Longmire, StaceyFrame and Billy MacKenzie if youguys read this. Email [email protected]

HOLMES, Stephanie......is a finan-

cial advisor with Clarica.. Hi! Iknow what your thinking a financialadvisor has nothing to do with ani-mals. While that is correct I amworking hard with farmers and ag-employees to make sure they are pre-pared for their financial future. Iworked on farm and ranches outwest and I realized that though Iloved it, it wasn’t what I wanted to dowith the rest of my life. So I decidedto contribute in another way. I pro-vide lots of free services to my clientsand I hope the agricultural section ofmy clients continues to grow. I wishI had had one of me when I wasworking out west!! Anyway hope allNSAC grads are doing well no mat-ter where life takes them.

HIRTLE, Katie......Greetings!!!Justdropping a line to anyone who’saround. I graduated in 1998 Ag BusTech, I now work for Scotian Gold inColdbrook. My better half Mark andI live in New Ross and own Boys &Their Toys Auto Service.

VANOOSTRUM, Mark......Wellnews from the island, I got engaged,finally most say, but next May I willbe married to Cherie Riggs (Class98). Cherie will be done vet schoolby then and then who knows wherewe will be, probably not on PEI. So ifanyone wants to hire a vet and a guylike me next year give us a jingle.We got three great pets, two cats(Daks and Kees) and a dog (Scout).Hope to see some fellow Aggies thiswinter. Made a trip back to AC thispast fall, things sure have changed,but it was still a lot of fun. [email protected]

SWEETLAND, Greg......Hope every-one is doing great. Married JackieGeldart (Class of ‘96 and 99’).Living near Fredericton, I’m with NBAgriculture, Fisheries andAquaculture and Jackie is withShurGain Atlantic. Miss all you crazycats!! [email protected]

Class of 1999

MACPHERSON, Erik.....Since gradu-ation, I have been working atAbercromb-ie Golf Club as the Assis-

tant superin-tendent. Iworked therefor two yearsp r e v i o u s(while still atAC ). After ACI wanted totake the nextstep. I applied

and was lucky enough to be accept-ed into Penn State. Penn state isregarded as the best program inNorth America for turfgrass studies.Erik was recently elected as TheGCSAA ( Golf CourseSuperintendents of AmericaAssociation) representative for thePenn State turf club. Erik hopes sometime in future to finda Superintendent position in theMaritimes. Matthew Wentzell, also ofthe Class of 1999 is currently at PennState with Erik.

RYAN, Kimberley......I was acceptedinto the Atlantic Veterinary Collegeafter graduation from the AC and amnow in the third year of the DVM pro-gram....and looking forward to grad-uation in 2003. I am also engaged toTom MacDonald, who studied engi-neering at the AC and we are look-ing forward to being married in Mayof 2002. Tom is currently working inWindsor, N.S as an ElectronicsEngineering Technologist. We can bereached at [email protected].

SAVOY, Jeanne......Graduated in1999. Working for Shell Canada asTechnical Support Representative inCalgary. If you’re ever in the areadrop me a line [email protected]

TREMBLETT, Krista......Hi Grads of‘99. I moved to Calgary, AB with myson Noah in June ‘01. I will be doingmy MSc. in Environmental Science atthe University of Calgary this fall. Weare loving it out here :o) Hope to hearfrom some old [email protected]

GALLANT, Steven......Grad of 99’Now married to Beth Armstrong (nowa Gallant) last month and loving it.We are both living in PEI and doinggreat. Anytime anyone is over to theIsland, look us [email protected]

ASHWORTH, Lisa (Scott).....I am cur-rently working at the Centre ofExcellence in Agricultural andBiotechnological Sciences in GrandFalls. I am working on curriculumdevelopment for a Grade 12 agri-sci-ence course at the high school here,so I am back to teaching in agricul-ture, which is much more enjoyablethan regular high school math andscience!! Logan Derek Ashworth wasborn on October 17, 2000, heweighed 9 lb 10 oz. He turned onelast month and is the happiest littlefarmer I’ve ever met. He loves tractors(or any large equipment)!! TUCKER, Denise......I completed an

Advanced Diploma in Aquaculturecourse in September 2001 and amcurrently working for NewfoundlandAquaculture Industry Association. Myson turned two on June 19, 2001.We are living happily in St. Philip’s,Newfoundland (my home town). Iwould like to congratulate MarjorieHopkins on her marriage to MarkAnderson. I like reading about my fel-low classmates in the BarnyardBanter. I would love to hear from myfriends, fellow classmates and profes-sors. My e-mail address is [email protected].

Class of 2000

ALLAIN, Amy......Just wanted to letyou know I’ve been working at theMaritime Animal Hospital in Monctonsince April 2001. Keep in touchgrads [email protected]

MACDONALD,Stephanie......Bonjour aggies, I’m writing from the beauti-ful Laurentians of Quebec atop amountain in Mont Tremblant. Aftergraduation form Land. Hort. I focusedmy attention to golf...and so far sogood. From greenskeeping at GlenArbour, N.S. to pesticide tech/ horti-culturalist at Fox Meadow, P.E.I. andthen the big break...a job offer tosupervise the grow in at a resort qual-ity executive par three here in Que.The Manitou is a G. Cooke/D.Huxham designed course that will(hopefully) be ready to play in thespring of 2002. Check it out atwww.golfmanitou.com. The superin-tendent position was mine for the tak-ing...but I enjoyed the challenge ofgrow-in and may continue in thisarea of turf. For the winter JenSavard (former aggie) and I plan tohibernate in the outback ofAustralia...and in the spring I willsurely be somewhere in this worldhappily growing grass.

MACLELLAN, Megan.......Just left butI miss it already. I was lucky enoughto get a job in Ottawa with the CFIAso I moved down here a couple ofweeks after graduation. It’s great fornow but I’m sure missing theMaritimes! Biggest news so far is Igot engaged this summer and will begetting married next aug. Whowould have thought?...Anyways, ifyou’re ever in the area drop me aline at 613-233-7195. I’m always upfor a “sociable” :-) Later, Megan [email protected]

MARSHALL, Rebecca......Hello to all myfellow graduates from 2000! I’m cur-rently in the last year of a MSc at theAVC. [email protected]

Women’s soccer struggled a bit this year.Although they improved tremendously over the sea-son, the wins were hard to get and they failed tomake a play-off berth.

Record 3-1-6

5th place

All-Conference Gillian Whidden

Men’s soccer relied heavily on a strong defensiveunit and as such put in a good league schedule.Backstopped by Mike Pittman in goal, the Ramssecured the 4th spot and traveled to Saint John forthe ACAA’s. Unfortunately , a significant injury earlyin the game threw the Rams off their momentum andthey lost the semi 4-0 to UNBSJ ( who went on towin the ACAA Title) . The injured athlete could notreturn to the semi but fully recovered in a couple ofweeks.

Record 2-6

4th place

All-Conference Mike Pittman Iain Caldwell

24 Agricola News

ATHLETIC CENTRE UPDATE ATHLETIC CENTRE UPDATE ATHLETIC CENTRE UPDATE ATHLETIC CENTRE UPDATE

Athletics in ReviewVARSITY FALL 2001

Soccer Badmin tonNSAC badminton has re-joined theACAA for the 2001-2002 season.The team finished the first two tour-naments in 5th and 6th spotsrespectively.As they start the sec-ond semester, the team has addednew players on both the men’s andwomen’s sections and so are look-ing forward to a strong secondhalf.

A keen, full crew of 28 are cuttingtheir way to success again thisyear. A mini-team competed inunity, Maine with the full team trav-eling to UNB in October and SirSanford Flemming in November,playing well in all competitions.The year 2002 will see activity atMacdonald in January and NSACin February.

Woodsmen

The Woodsman raise most of the funds required to attend the MAC competition. The team is pictured above with theirmajor fund raising project - they purchase wood in eight food lengths, cut and split and deliver to interested clients.They were successful in raising $1800.00

Women - The women started somewhatslowly in November, but by their last match-es in the first semester, were looking like acontender. With half of their scheduleahead of them this semester, they are look-ing to start strong against UNBSJ and con-tinue to secure a play-off position.St.Thomas is presently the team to beat.

Record 2-7

5th place

Men - The men are re-building after a fiveyear reign of the ACAA league. Severalpromising rookies are gaining confidencein the league and should lead the team to aplay-off spot in February. And then in play-offs - anything can happen! Dal are theleaders at this point in the league play.

Record 1-7

6th place

Vo l l eyba l l

CCAA Men's BasketballChampionships

March 21-23, 2002

Winter 2002 25

ATHLETIC CENTRE UPDATE ATHLETIC CENTRE UPDATE ATHLETIC CENTRE UPDATE ATHLETIC CENTRE UPDATE

Baske tba l lRugbyBoth rugby squads had an excellent Fall.

Women - The women finished the Fall asNS College Champions

Men - The men won the NSRU 2ndDivision and then went on to compete inFredericton (UNB 2nd Division) where theyalso won the Maritime Title.

CONGRATULATIONS to both RugbySquads!

GolfA five member team competed in theACAA/AUS Golf Tournament at the TruroClub in September. The squad finished 5thin a field of eight teams. The top golfer forNSAC was Jon Garron.

Women - The women are again off to a great start. With only one loss in league play inthe first semester, they are poised for another first place in the league play with an excel-lent chance in the play-offs. Veterans are leading the squad with talented rookies maturingquickly and contributing significantly in most games.

Record 6-1 Tied for 1st

Men - The men had a good start to the season with wins over MSVU and Dal and goodclose games with the others. Although having a rocky start to the second semester in theAtlantic Coast Classic, they are gaining momentum for a play-off position in March. Thegoal for the Rams is to finish the ACAA strong and participate in the CCAA Nationals atNSAC - March21-23.

Record 2-5 7th

Rookies Mike Akerley leads the Rams Offense against rivals MSVU. The Rams won the game 64-57.

A talented Rams Alumni Basketball squad deliveredtough competition for this years’ team in the annualHomecoming contest. Above are: (LtoR) Jeff Fisher,Seth Kinsbury, Dan Dunford, Jamie Oxley, NeilHarvey, Donnie MacGregor Back: Steve Doucette,Brad MacGregor, Dean Schofield, Steve Gladwin,Paul Perrin and Jeff Kay

Clubs

Rugy is becoming increasingly popular with womenin high schools and universities. Shown here are theAC Rams (solid blue) in a scrum with St. F.X. ( blueand white)

26 Agricola News

BARCLAY, Erin......Hey there to all 2000 Ag. Bus.Tech. grads!! I’m currently working at the NovaScotia Community College in Truro. Dan and Ihave just recently made our engagement officialand we’re getting married next May. We have alsojust bought a house in Debert, so I guess I’m a per-manent resident! I hope all is well and hope tohear from you.Erin Barclay [email protected]

Class of 2001

KENRICK, Elizabeth......Hey everyone. I justmoved up to Pembroke(about 2 hours NW ofOttawa). It’s about the size of Truro. I’m workingfor the Ottawa Valley Waste Recovery Centre as aPublic Education Technician. I’m really enjoying it.I’d love to hear from some of my fellow grads.Hope everyone is doing well. Miss you all!!Elizabeth Kenrick [email protected]

Barnyard Banter, Continued from page 23

Distinguished, Continued from page 7

Canadian Centre for Poultry Research atthe NSAC was awarded up to 40 per centof eligible costs, to a maximum of $2.1 mil-llion.

Shortly after this decision a responseincluding commitment for matching dollarsmust be made for the project to go forward.

The NSAC’s prepared to accept contri-butions toward this and other projects. Allcontributions will be acknowledged with areceipt for income tax purposes.Substantial contributions to this project willbe further recognized and promoted byassociating the donor with specific compo-nents of the facility. For information on howto contribute to the Renewal of the PoultryFacilities at the NSAC contact Jim Goit, theExecutive Director, Development andExternal Relations (893-7950 or [email protected]) or Bruce Rathgeber,Poultry Scientist (893-6654 or [email protected]).

Poultry, Continued from page 15

which includes alumni as well as supportersof the institution. The Development Officecoordinates campus events such as openhouse and alumni weekend, the AtlanticAgricultural Hall of Fame ceremony andcontributes to other special occasions suchas Convocation, Autumn Assembly and theSeminar Series. In addition, the office isresponsible for several components of theNSAC website; making sure that informa-tion is accurate and current.

Each team member maintains their ownspecial expertise in dealing with the com-ponents of the mission around the officeusing skills from previous jobs to comple-ment each other in an effective way.

We hope to provide a one-stop-shop forall alumni and friends and invite everyoneto please stop by or call the office:

Telephone: (902) 893-6721 or visit us online at:www.nsac.ns.ca/development/

Development Office, Cont’d from page 7

Byron has a keen interest in how peoplelearn which has lead him to instill a highlevel of life-long learning in the employeesof Novartis Animal Health. He, himself, isa firm believer in life-long learning andcontinuous improvement and believesdeeply in the power of a positive attitude.While at Novartis, Byron succeeded inincreasing Animal Health Care Sales byover 750 per cent.

This past year Byron was asked to chaira special Finance Task Force for the NSACAlumni Association and facilitated a plan-ning session with the Board of Directors ata March 2000 retreat. As an NSAC alum-nus, Byron has always been a strong moti-vational force not only behind the scenes inhis persuasive, unobtrusive way but also inan overt way. He has worked diligently topreserve the integrity of the Class of 1956and to channel efforts in relation to supportof the College

Since his retirement as President ofNovartis Animal Health Canada Inc. inAugust 2001, Byron has taken on the postof consultant with Novartis Animal HealthUS. Byron and his wife Katherine reside inCarlisle Ontario on the outskirts of Toronto.They have three daughters: Sharon,

Carolyn and Janet and four grand daugh-ters.

Since graduation in 1956 Byron Beelerhas been a strong supporter of the NovaScotia Agricultural College and the NSACAlumni Association. This combined with hisdedication and contributions to the industrymake him a very deserving recipient of theNSAC Distinguished Alumnus Award for2001.

AgriTECH Park Inc. has a new Board ofDirectors and management of the facil-

ity has been assumed by the Nova ScotiaAgricultural College. InNOVAcorp will con-tinue to provide assistance and expertise interms of business incubation. However, withthis transition comes an opportunity for a re-thinking of the business plan and this willbe a priority for the newly appointedManaging Director. Laurie Sandeson hasaccepted a secondment position toAgriTECH Park from the Nova ScotiaDepartment of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Ms. Sandeson has been with theMarketing Services Branch of theDepartment for 13 years and most recentlywas a member of the Product and QualityDevelopment Services Branch whose corebusiness is encouraging the development ofvalue-added products and services in theagriculture and fisheries’ sectors. Shebelieves that there is tremendous potentialat the Park to grow and develop the agri-food industry through business incubation,agricultural services’ networking andalliance-building and professional develop-ment initiatives. In collaboration with theBoard of Directors and industry stakehold-ers, Ms. Sandeson will develop a strategicbusiness plan for AgriTECH Park Inc.Initiatives to increase business activity andoffer custom-designed facilities for new andexisting clients will be a priority.

Laurie lives in Lower Truro with her hus-band Michael and four boys. Michael oper-ates a small dairy farm (Guernseys andJerseys) so there is always lots to do downon the farm.

New Managing Directorfor AgriTECH Park

Laurie Sandeson

a growing thirst for knowledge in this organic why

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