May 7, 2004
OVSGA GIVES MORE THAN $35,000 TO VARIOUS PROGRAMS
Eastern Ontario youth and agricultural initiatives were the main beneficiaries when the Ottawa Valley Seed Growers Association handed out some of the proceeds from its annual Ottawa Valley Farm Show held in March.

During a recent meeting held in Kemptville, OVSGA directors voted to distribute more than $35,000 in assistance to various groups which put in requests, including Kemptville College, Strawfest, 4-H, and the Canadian Seed Growers Association which will get $2,500 towards organizing its 100th anniversary meeting to be held in Ottawa July 7-10.

One of the main beneficiaries is the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario which will get a cheque for $8,000 during the annual telethon June 5-6; the money was raised through the Prestigious Pedigreed Seed Sale held during the Farm Show.

National, provincial and regional arms of the 4-H organization were given a total of $2,500 to help carry on their good work with rural youth. The Central Canada Exhibition Association got $750 for 4-H activities during the annual Ottawa "Ex". And the Russell Agricultural Society got $300 towards sponsoring the "Teen Farmer" program during the Russell Fair.

Another youth-related organization is Strawfest which was allocated $1,500 for its Beef Debut to be held at Carp Fairgrounds June 26.

Two research projects operated out of Kemptville College will get $5,000 and a total of $15,000 over three years respectively; they involve an investigation of seeding and planting rates, and a study of cereal leaf disease management.

In other business, OVSGA directors declared the 2004 Farm Show a resounding success, particularly the bargain hamburger feature in support of the Eastern Ontario beef industry. There was a full house of 310 exhibitors, weather cooperated and attendance was up, said Farm Show Manager Tom Van Dusen.

"Despite ongoing trials and tribulations, every year the Farm Show serves as a reminder that there's a lot of resiliency in this industry," said OVSGA president Bill Halpenny.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Tom Van Dusen, General Manager, (613-445-3407)