DUNDAS COUNTY — At the end of July, 56 member of Dundas County Soil and Crop Improvement Association flew to Newfoundland and enjoyed a five-day tour across the entire province. Taking in seventeen stops including dairy farms, cranberry expansion, tree nursery, greenhouse farm marketing, land clearing that involved stone crushing equipment, iron ore mine tour, wine vaults, historical sites and a complete tour through Corner Brook Pulp and Paper just to name a few.
Above, DSCIA group sot overlooking a cranberry field at Bishop Falls. Courtesy photos
Hosts exchange issues with participants that they are faced with in Newfoundland climate and soil types. The forestry industry is becoming less viable and the government is looking to agricultural expansion because of its stability. Land leases are virtually free, other than the cost of land clearing. Tractor and equipment purchases come mainly from Nova Scotia, there is no larger equipment dealership in the province.
Above, a one-sided custom liquid fertilizer and sprayer applicator for the cranberry fields. Boom length 100 feet. Courtesy photo
The annual bus trip is a fundraiser for DSCIA, and the club appreciates members selling out the trip every year. The support allows the club to host farm events, donate funds to other service clubs in the community and be one of the most successful in the province.
Above, DSCIA sampling some port and chocolate at the Newman wine vaults during their city tour of St. John’s. Courtesy photo