Author Archives: Sean Westerveld

About Sean Westerveld

Ginseng and Medicinal Herbs Specialist, OMAFRA

Market Diversification and Trade Resiliency Initiative

On January 20, 2026, the Government of Canada and the Ontario Government announced the launch of the new $20 million Market Diversification and Trade Resiliency Initiative to support market diversification and resiliency within domestic and international markets, with an emphasis placed … Continue reading

Posted in All Specialty Crops, Ginseng, Ginseng Other, Herbs, Hops, Hops Other, Industrial and Misc. Crops, Lavender, Specialty Fruit and Nuts, Specialty Grains, Specialty Vegetables, Sweet Potato | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Specialty Crop Summer Student Positions Available in Simcoe

APPLY BY: February 10, 2026 11:59 pm EST The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) – Agriculture Development Branch in Simcoe (Norfolk County), Ontario is seeking highly motivated, enthusiastic and energetic team players. These positions will provide an excellent … Continue reading

Posted in All Specialty Crops, Ginseng, Haskap, Herbs, Hops, Hops Other, Lavender, Other Specialty Grains, Specialty Fruit and Nuts, Specialty Grains, Sweet Potato | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Mandatory Online Application for Water Taking Permits Now in Effect

By: Badrul Masud, Water Quantity Engineer, OMAFA As of January 5, 2026, all Permit to Take Water (PTTW) applications, which are required under the Ontario Water Resources Act if you take 50,000 litres or more of water per day, must … Continue reading

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Ginseng Pesticide and Research Prioritization Meeting – November 28, 2025

The Ginseng Pesticide and Research Prioritization Meeting will be held in person at the Ontario Crops Research Centre – Simcoe (Simcoe Research Station) on Friday, November 28. This is an opportunity to discuss the production issues over the past year, establish research … Continue reading

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Lavender Farm Tour and Educational Event Sept. 27

The Ontario Lavender Association is holding an in-person education and networking event at Woodland North Lavender Farm in Madoc on Saturday, September 27th from 9am-4pm. This event is being offered to non-members of OLA at $30 per person (no cost … Continue reading

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Excellence in Agriculture Awards – Nomination Deadline Extended to Friday, September 12

Do you know someone making an impact in Ontario’s agri-food sector? Nominations are now open for the 2025 Excellence in Agriculture Awards! These awards recognize the individuals and organizations that are driving excellence, sustainability and long-term competitiveness in Ontario’s $51 … Continue reading

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