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Canada's first Cowshare College Takes Off! |
We are delighted to congratulate all the participants in Canada's first Cow Share College, which took place May 1, 2010, in Durham, ON. Participants, including farmers, consumers, nutritionists and farm apprentice/interns braved a rainy day to hear Michael Schmidt and Tim Wightman, two farmers with extensive experience in raw dairy production and cowshare operations, co-present a full day of training. Garry Lean, an independent inspector, also joined the session to provide his perspective on safe dairy operations. Much of the day's proceedings was captured by several sets of film-makers!
The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Some said they felt like they'd had an entire weekend course in one day. Lunch on the farm was a big hit, as was a tour of the dairy operation. Participants also appreciated the organization and learning materials - and some even commented on how nice it was to have a session in a 100+ year old schoolhouse, with a working bell!
Those who have already joined Cow Share Canada should also be pleased with the success of the College, as this is an important step in ensuring that producers have the knowledge and skills they need to safely produce raw milk and set up cowshare operations that comply with the significant restrictions reinforced by the January ruling. It's encouraging to see more and more producers and consumers choose to know the people they produce food for, or access food from, and to be prepared to take the time and effort to set up private arrangements that suit both parties - and provide a healthful alternative to industrial food.
Plans are already underway for another Cowshare College in Ontario in October, a more advanced session in November, and even Cowshare College sessions in other provinces! Check back for a list of other educational activities, undertaken for Cowshare Canada members; some will be available to the public, as well.
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