Halifax

ACORN ‘Grow A Farmer’ Forum

ACORN presents GROW! Screening and New Farmer Meet and Greet

2:00pm
- 5:30pm
Monday February 27 2012

Halifax, Nova Scotia - The Atlantic Canadian Organic Regional Network (ACORN) presents GROW! a new documentary about the resurgence of new farmers choosing self-employed agrarian life over the hustle and bustle of city-living. Screening Monday, February 27th at the Dalhousie Student Union Building, Halifax NS, at 2pm, the film will be presented as part of ACORN’s ‘Grow A Farmer’ Forum, a full afternoon of events promoting farm-based education and the next generation of organic farmers in Nova Scotia.

GROW! is an award-winning film made by Christine Anthony and Owen Masterson (Atlanta, Georgia) that captures the energy and independence of a fresh crop of young farmers who have turned to the fields for a more meaningful life. Just 50 minutes in length, this film is sure to inspire those that have been curious about the farming lifestyle, and promises to provide insight about how to “grow” a farm.

After the film, an hour-long workshop will follow. Titled, ‘So You Want To Farm? The best way to learn how’ this informative session will be lead by Rowena Hopkins, Executive Director of Farmers Markets of Nova Scotia, directed to those interested in farm-based apprenticeships.

After 4:15pm, discussion will follow, with meet and greet opportunities for farmers and foodies, as well as presentations from local groups, such as the Common Roots Urban Farm, supporting farmer-training initiatives.

“If you’re curious about learning how to farm, this afternoon is for you,” says event organizer, Lucia Stephen. “This forum will be a great way to connect aspiring farmers with experienced farmers; raise awareness about available resources and highlight the benefits of farm-based education. Admission is just $5 with all proceeds supporting ACORN’s Grow A Farmer program–a developing initiative offering Maritime-wide apprenticeships and mentorship in organic food production.”

ACORN initiated the “Grow a Farmer” program due to the clear need for new entrants in the field. According to the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture, the average age among farmers in the province is 57. With many opportunities available to support and facilitate education for new organic farmers–from volunteer programs like WWOOF (World-Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) and SOIL (Stewards of Irreplaceable Land) to government support and academia–the education required to pursue a career in agriculture has become increasingly accessible. ACORN’s program hopes to foster a network of support among these organizations and groups by hosting more events to connect new farmers and build on the existing organic community.

ACORN’s ‘Grow A Farmer’ Forum is open to the public and will take place from 2pm-5:30pm on Monday, February 27th at Room 303, Student Union Building, Dalhousie University (6136 University Avenue).

For further information on available farming opportunities and education, please contact ACORN’s ‘Grow A Farmer’ Program Coordinator, Lucia Stephen at the ACORN office (toll-free 1 866 322 2676) or email lucia@acornorganic.org.

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