Canadian Government helps seniors stay fit in Richmond, British Columbia

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RICHMOND, British Columbia, April 23, 2014 /Canada NewsWire / - The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), announced today that seniors in Richmond will be receiving support from the Government for a community gardening project.

The Sharing Farm's Seniors Greenhouse Club is receiving more than $19,000 in federal funding through the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP). This program supports projects led or inspired by seniors who want to make a difference in the lives of others and in their communities.

"This project exemplifies a win-win situation for seniors and the Richmond community.  Seniors will gain horticultural knowledge, which will enable them to donate the proceeds from their gardens to local food banks at harvest time. We are proud to work with organizations like The Sharing Farm so that seniors can remain active and productive members of their community." - The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors)

Through the project, The Sharing Farm will upgrade its collection of garden tools and modify greenhouse shelving to facilitate access for seniors, making it possible for senior volunteers with varying physical abilities to become involved in the club. Seniors will also learn to grow fruit and vegetables that will be donated to local food banks at harvest time. This project is expected to benefit 5,000 seniors.

"The Sharing Farm Society is pleased to have received a grant from the Government of Canada's New Horizons for Seniors Program to fund our Freshly Aged - Seniors Greenhouse Volunteer program. We're connecting seniors with other seniors and creating a community around an inter-generational sharing of knowledge and experiences. Along with growing food for families in need, we'll be growing a new year-round crop of great volunteers!" - James Gates, Executive Director for The Sharing Farm Society.

Quick Facts

• Economic Action Plan 2014 proposes an additional $5 million per year for the NHSP to support projects that enable seniors to share their knowledge, skills and experiences with others. These projects also help communities increase their capacity to support seniors at a local level.
  
• Since 2006, the NHSP has funded more than 13,000 projects in hundreds of communities across Canada. NHSP funding is targeted to both pan-Canadian and community-based projects.
  
• In 2014, over 1,770 NHSP community-based projects across Canada were approved through the 2013-2014 call for proposals and received more than $33.4 million in funding.

Associated Links

• New Horizons for Seniors Program
• Funding: New Horizons for Seniors
• Economic Action Plan 2014

The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) is a federal grants and contributions program that supports projects led or inspired by seniors who make a difference in the lives of others and their communities. Through the NHSP, the Government of Canada encourages seniors to share their knowledge, skills and experiences to the benefit of others.

NHSP funding is targeted to both community-based and pan-Canadian projects.

Community-based project funding supports activities that engage seniors and address one or more of the program's five objectives: volunteering, mentoring, expanding awareness of elder abuse, social participation and capital assistance. These projects are eligible to receive up to $25,000 per year per organization in grant funding.

Pan-Canadian projects help seniors protect themselves from elder abuse, including financial abuse and fraud. These projects enable community members to better recognize elder abuse in all its forms and to improve the quality of life, safety and security of seniors. Projects focus on developing tools, resources and promising practices that can be adapted and shared across communities, regions or the entire country and may be eligible to receive up to $250,000per year for a maximum of three years.

Over 1,770 NHSP community-based projects were approved through the 2013-2014 call for proposals, for a total of more than $33.4 million in funding.

Government of Canada invests in 31 Great Lakes clean-up projects

QUINTE WEST, Ontario, April 23, 2014 /Canada NewsWire/ - On behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council, Dr. Colin Carrie was in Quinte West, Ontario, today to celebrate 31 environmental clean-up projects in the Great Lakes. The projects, valued at $1.88 million, are funded by the Government of Canada's Great Lakes Sustainability Fund.

Since 1989, the Great Lakes Sustainability Fund has supported more than 900 partnered projects to help clean up Canadian Great Lakes Areas of Concern.

This past year alone, the supported projects leveraged $3.76 million in funding from industry, academia and other government agencies. Working together to complete these projects is an important step towards protecting this vast natural resource for generations to come.

Quick Facts

• Great Lakes Areas of Concern are areas where the environment and water quality are severely degraded. Restoring them is a priority because they impact the health of the ecosystem locally and across the basin.
  
• Projects supported by the Great Lakes Sustainability Fund typically focus on restoring fish and wildlife habitat and populations, cleaning up contaminated sediment, and controlling pollution from municipal wastewater, urban storm water and rural run-off.
  

Quotes

"Our Government is committed to delivering a clean and healthy environment for Canadians. Through the initiatives highlighted today, we are taking action to restore and protect water quality and priority ecosystems throughout the Great Lakes." - Dr. Colin Carrie, Member of Parliament for Oshawa and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment

"The Great Lakes are fundamental to the well-being of millions of Canadians who live and work along their shores. Our Government is proud to invest in projects that will help to ensure the long-term health of this critical resource." - Rick Norlock, Member of Parliament for Northumberland—Quinte West

"The funding of habitat restoration and monitoring programs by the Great Lakes Sustainability Fund will ensure that the Bay of Quinte remains a healthy and vibrant ecosystem. The Bay provides this region with numerous amenities, including everything from quality drinking water to a world class fishery. This funding will help the Bay remain a sustainable and valuable resource for future generations." - Glenda Rodgers, Chief Administrative Officer, Lower Trent Conservation and Co-Chair of the Bay of Quinte Remedial Action Plan Restoration Council

Associated Link

The Great Lakes (Environment Canada)

Canadian Government committed to cleaning up Lake Simcoe and South-eastern Georgian Bay

BRADFORD, Ontario, April 15, 2014 /Canada NewsWire/ - Minister Van Loan and Dr. Colin Carrie were in Bradford, Ontario, today on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council, to highlight the Government of Canada's ongoing efforts to clean up Lake Simcoe and South-eastern Georgian Bay.

As part of the first round of funding under the renewed and expanded Lake Simcoe/South-eastern Georgian Bay Clean-Up Fund, $8.6 million will support 26 projects that will help restore and protect the health of Lake Simcoe and South-eastern Georgian Bay.

Among the recipients of Round 1 funding is Ducks Unlimited Canada. The Government of Canada invested $449,000to support the Lake Simcoe/Georgian Bay Wetland Collaborative project that will help in the restoration and enhancement of wetlands to reduce phosphorous inputs and improve habitat.

Quick Facts

• Economic Action Plan 2012 committed $29 million over five years to continue to support the Lake Simcoe Clean-up Fund and extend it to include South-eastern Georgian Bay.
  
• The Lake Simcoe/South-eastern Georgian Bay Clean-Up Fund supports community-based projects that are focused on priorities such as reducing phosphorous inputs from urban and rural sources, restoring fish and aquatic wildlife habitat and populations, and addressing nearshore toxic and nuisance algae growth.
  
• The Fund is part of the Government's comprehensive approach to ensure clean water for all Canadians, which includes projects like the clean-up of contaminated sediment in Great Lakes Areas of Concern, and action on pollution in Lake Winnipeg. It builds on the success of the 2007-2012 $30 million Lake Simcoe Clean-Up Fund.

Quotes

"Our Government has made it clear that we are committed to ensuring the health of Lake Simcoe for future generations. Building on the success of the projects completed with the original investment of $30 million, we know the additional $29 million investment will mean the continued revitalization of the Lake and watershed—benefitting families who enjoy these waters and the businesses who rely upon it."

— The Honourable Peter Van Loan, Member of Parliament for York—Simcoe and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

"Lake Simcoe and South-eastern Georgian Bay are important natural resources, vital sources of drinking water, and regional economic drivers. Our Government is proud to be contributing to projects that will help ensure the long-term sustainability of Canada's lake and waterways."

— Dr. Colin Carrie, Member of Parliament for Oshawa and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment

"Ducks Unlimited Canada is very pleased to see Environment Canada support our Lake Simcoe/Georgian Bay Wetland Collaborative project. Wetlands are an essential component of a sustainable, healthy ecosystem. This project aims to reduce phosphorus and nutrient inputs into Lake Simcoe through the development of enhanced wetland protection policies and increased wetland restoration activities. We look forward to working with the collaborative partners to ensure healthier and more resilient landscapes in the Lake Simcoe and southeastern Georgian Bay watersheds."

— Lynette Mader, Manager of Provincial Operations, for Ducks Unlimited Canada

"Projects for Round 1 of the Lake Simcoe/South-eastern Georgian Bay Clean-Up Fund will go a long way to help the environment of the watersheds, while improving the quality of life of those who live near and enjoy the benefits of Lake Simcoe and South-eastern Georgian Bay."

— Richard Simpson, Public Advisory Committee Chair

World Food Clock

How much food is being consumed around the world right now?

It's a vast question that can be answered by the World Food Clock. This interesting website draws on information provided by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and presents a streaming set of data on global food consumption, global food waste, and other informative topics.

It's visually arresting and users can scroll down to look through different "clocks" that track statistics such as the land used to grow wasted food and the stages of food waste, which include production, processing, and consumption.

This is a wonderful tool for folks with an interest in food security, environmental studies, public health, and international relations. It could also be used in any number of design courses to illustrate a range of techniques and visualization strategies.

Visit the site at: http://worldfoodclock.com/

>The Scout Report, Copyright Internet Scout 1994-2012. http://scout.wisc.edu/

Escape to Georgian Bay Islands National Park!

It's closer and easier than you might think

MIDLAND, Ontario, April 10, 2014 /Canada NewsWire/ - An escape is closer and more affordable than you might think. Come and enjoy a wilder side of Canada - just 90 minutes north of downtown Toronto. Cruise over to Georgian Bay Islands National Park on the shuttle boat DayTripper, and enjoy an afternoon picnicking on the shores of Beausoleil Island. Here, you can swim in the clean, clear waters of Georgian Bay or absorb the incredible views from 27 kilometres of trails.

It is easy to explore the island by renting mountain bikes, or enjoy campfires and the star filled night sky with your family from fully-furnished waterfront cabins that comfortably sleep five. The Cedar Spring cabins, on the south eastern side of Beausoleil Island, offer a screened-in porch, cooking and living areas, two bedrooms, and close proximity to shower and washroom facilities and a children's playground. On the west side of the Island, the Christian Beach cabins are perfect for a couple looking to get away from it all and watch the sunset over Georgian Bay and Giant's Tomb. If you like camping but don't have the gear, Georgian Bay Islands' equipped campsites provide the starting point for a truly memorable Canadian experience.

Try a fun way to quench your thirst for adventure with stand up paddle-boarding. Stand up paddle-boarding, or "SUP", is a new visitor experience being offered for the 2014 season. All you will need to bring is a willingness to try something new and the desire to have fun on the water.

Georgian Bay's spectacular landscapes, time-worn rock faces and diverse habitats are features that have inspired artists and photographers for generations. Whether you are looking to escape for a day, a romantic weekend or a fun-filled family holiday, Georgian Bay Islands National Park offers incredible experiences that are close to home.

Plan your escape and reserve your space today. Visit reservation.pc.gc.ca or call 1-877-RESERVE and book yourGeorgian Bay Islands National Park adventure today.

Quick Facts

• The DayTripper travels between the park's mainland dock in Honey Harbour (take exit 156 off Hwy 400) to Beausoleil Island. The service is available from Victoria Day weekend in May to Thanksgiving in October. Reservations are strongly recommended.
• Need a ride to the park from Toronto? Visit Parkbus.ca to find the bus schedule that works best for you.
• There are more than 63 islands in the park. Beausoleil Island is the largest island and offers a variety of visitor services.
• Georgian Bay Islands National Park straddles the transition zone between the Canadian Shield in the north and hardwood forest ecosystems in the south, and is home to an amazing variety of species. As well, archaeological evidence speaks to over 5,000 years of human habitation.

Quotes

"Parks Canada manages some of Canada's greatest outdoor spaces, and Georgian Bay Islands National Park is a truly stunning place to visit. Our cabins and equipped camping on Beausoleil Island are a definite hit, especially with first time visitors. The park is now more accessible to people looking to come for a day, a weekend or a week, and provides a diversity of options that best suits a visitor's interest, time and budget."

Gary McMillan, Superintendent, Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Internet Links:
Video content: http://youtu.be/mUM_qYdbOQM
Georgian Bay Islands: www.pc.gc.ca/gbi
Parks Canada Reservations: reservation.pc.gc.ca
Parks Canada Ontario Trip Planning: www.pc.gc.ca/ontario
Parks Canada Accommodations: www.pc.gc.ca/accommodations
Parkbus: www.parkbus.ca

About Parks Canada

Parks Canada works to ensure that Canada's historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future. Through a network of 44 national parks, 167 national historic sites and four national marine conservation areas, Parks Canada sets the stage and invites Canadians, as well as people from around the world, to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery of our treasured natural and historic places.

March Approvals Secure $1.9 Million for Ontario Organizations and Collaborations

GUELPH, Ontario April 1, 2014 Agricultural Adaptation Council News Release -  Utilizing funds provided through Growing Forward 2 (GF2), the Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC) board of directors recently approved 23 projects, totaling over $1.9 million in funding, to benefit Ontario's agriculture, agri-food and agri-products industry.

"The uptake of the GF2 program in Ontario by Organizations and Collaborations is unprecedented." says Kristin Ego MacPhail, AAC Chair. "In particular, applicants are teaming up with others to approach projects as collaborations, which has promoted financial savings, sharing expertise, maximizing existing resources, and sharing the risk in new and untested projects. The AAC  encourages potential applicants to consider the Collaborative component of GF2."  Among the new projects:

• In collaboration with six lamb producers, Newmarket Meat Packers Ltd. will build a true value system with information flow to all of the partners - producers, processor and retailer.  Producers will form an organization whereby production protocol information will be developed and shared with its members. This producer group will hire a field person that will coordinate year round production to meet the needs of a retailer. The field person will also liaise with retail staff and consumers to get feedback on the product and any suggestions on how to improve the product or the process of delivering the product to the consumer.
   
• In collaboration with the Grain Farmers of Ontario, Persall Fine Foods Inc. is increasing the availability of extra-virgin cold-pressed vegetable oils from Ontario oilseeds in the US market. To facilitate new export market growth opportunity realization, new processes, technologies, and systems (in the form of further processing equipment) must be adopted as part of process development by Persall Fine Foods production facility in Norfolk County. This business enterprise, a combination of technologies and product line, is unique in Canada. 
   
• In collaboration with the Ontario Biomass Producer's Co-op, Switch Energy Corp. is setting up a complete processing line that takes scrap plastic collected from farms and processes the material into forms where it can be combined with biofibre and/or bio-based resins for compounding. Because of the agricultural source of the material, it is frequently contaminated with dirt and straw and therefore needs to be thoroughly washed, cleaned and dried before it can be flaked and ground to various levels of coarseness in powdered form. Once the line is installed and in operation, commercial scale samples will be provided to potential customers in different markets to support the development and expansion of the biocomposite sector in Ontario.

To date, the AAC board of directors, has approved 91 projects totaling over $8 million in GF2 funding for Ontario Organizations and Collaborations. For more information about the projects listed above, or for a complete list of GF2 projects, visit the AAC's website.

Organizations and Collaborations can continue to access funding through GF2 for:

• Capacity Building through strategic planning, training, audits or assessments; and,
• Project Implementation for projects that focus on the environment and climate change, animal and plant health, market development, labour productivity enhancement, assurance systems, and business and leadership development.
    

GF2 is aimed at encouraging innovation, competitiveness and market development in Canada's agri-food and agri-products sector. The AAC assists in the delivery of GF2 in Ontario.

The AAC is based in Guelph, Ontario, Canada, and is a leader in program delivery. The AAC is a not-for-profit organization that is made up of 68 Ontario agricultural, agri-food and rural organizations. The AAC board of directors reviews all applications and makes the final funding decisions.  

Learn more about Growing Forward 2:

Agricultural Adaptation Council

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada