Tuesday, June 28, 2011

HARVEST FOR HUNGER June Update


Some of the committe members on a crop tour June 20, 2011.
Despite one of the most challenging planting seasons in recent memory in Ontario, the Harvest For Hunger (H4H) project is up and growing. As of June 20th, the soybeans were just beyond the third trifoliate leaf stage, more than 6 inches tall and looking great.   Through the efforts of the committee, several agri- business and local farmers, the field was cultivated and planted between the frequent rains. A garden camera is being installed so that the public can see updated pictures and follow the progress of the crop. By planting a shorter season variety, we are anticipating an early harvest probably before most other soybeans will be ready.
Plans for the harvest day are being put together. The large wheat field immediately west of the Harvest for Hunger site on the south east corner of Highway 23 and the 60th Line, just north of the village of Monkton,  will be used for parking and viewing the harvest. Bleachers, porta-potties, food and refreshments, entertainment and help have been offered from the local community and beyond. The municipality of North Perth has been very helpful in providing ideas and expertise in organizing the event.
Currently, about 50 combines have “signed up” to be part of this world record attempt. We need more! We are encouraging combine owners and operators to be part of something really BIG. This could be a once in a lifetime event. If we have one chance to set this record, let’s do it right! Everyone is invited to come to the table, bring your combine and show the rest of the world how incredible farmers really are! To sign up your combine, go to www.foodgrainsbank.ca and click on the “Get involved” and then Harvest for Hunger, and then click on the “Register Your Combine” icon or contact the “combine guy” Peter Rastorfer  rastorferfarms@gmail.com or 519 347 2669.
Plans are progressing for an auction of the crop with many of the grain traders being invited to purchase the crop. Congregations, church schools and Individuals are also being encouraged to “buy” a bushel of the crop for $20. More than $8,000 has already been donated in cash along with $15 - 20,000 in crop inputs. Harvest For Hunger hopes to raise $200,000.


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