Latest EOMF News

• EOMF Releases First YouTube Forest Certification Video

  The Eastern Ontario Model Forest has just released the first in its new Forest Certification video series. Chain of Custody Certification provides a visually appealing and understandable overview of this often complex subject matter. Stay tuned for three more videos in this Forest Certification series to be released in the next couple of months featuring: private land certification; community forest certification; and maple syrup certification.
  
  Please click the link below that leads to EOMF's new YouTube EOMF channel and Chain of Custody Certification video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mw1d48JVpdo
• Chain of Custody Certification Seminars Starting Soon!

  If you are a primary or secondary wood manufacturer than don't miss your chance to attend this topical seminar designed to benefit your bottom line and green your business! Learn all about the "what, why and how" of Chain of Custody Certification and how this growing trend will benefit your business today and into the future!

  Choose one of six dates and locations starting January 31 in Kanata; February 2 in North Bay; February 7 in Kitchener; February 8 in Mississauga; February 9 in Vaughan; or February 16 in Peterborough.

  The Eastern Ontario Model Forest will be hosting the event in collaboration with FPInnovations and supported by the Ministry of Natural Resources. Chain of Custody Certification (CoCC) for Forest Product Producers and the Value-Added Wood Industry promises to deliver a full-day of informative presentations from experts who will describe the "what, why and how" of CoCC including:

  • the three different Chain of Custody certification systems available
  • new market trends that are 'pulling' demand for certified products
  • economic and non-economic benefits of becoming certified
  • the risks of opting for 'status quo'
  • where and how to market certified products both domestically and for export,
  • possible cost-sharing incentive programs (registration in this seminar would be a pre-requisite)

  Time is running out so register online now by clicking HERE  or by contacting Mary at 613-258-8241. The Agenda and more detailed info on where and when is also posted on our site at: seminars.eomf.on.ca. Hope to see you at one of the sessions!
• Register Today for the 25th Annual Kemptville Winter Woodlot Conference
  This year we celebrate the 25^th annual Kemptville Winter Woodlot Conference on Wednesday, February 22 at the W.B. George Centre on the Kemptville Campus of the University of Guelph.  This annual educational and networking event is a must-attend for private woodlot owners, and for associated commercial, service, government, and non-government organizations that want to reach them with their message!
  
  This year’s theme is: "Today's Woodlot Threats and Opportunities" and will features speakers that will provide information and insight on topics including: 

  An "Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Update" session that will inform the audience of latest news on the pest including a presentation from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency outlining their regulatory framework, Ministerial Orders, and punitive measures; the harsh realities and impacts of EAB on the City of Ottawa over the last several years; a fact sheet outlining what a landowner should be aware of; and how the 50 Million Tree Program of Trees Ontario may help.

  Next, Scott Davis from EOMF will be also giving an informed overview and update on "Private Land Forest Certification in Eastern Ontario" including how to get certified, why do it, who to contact, and where to get more info. After cake and coffee break, John Gulland will be sharing his expert advice on "Optimizing your Firewood Burning Techniques" to improve heat, health, and cost savings.

  After a hot lunch and exhibit hall viewing, the audience will hear from an Invasive Plant Species Panel, made-up of Rachel Gagnon from the Invasives Plant Council and Krispen Wood from Agriculture Canada's Arboretum in Ottawa.  They will highlight "What's Threatening our Woodlots and Forests", and, "Taking Action: Do's & Don'ts" when trying to wrestle with buckthorn, dog strangling vine and other invasive plants.

  Last but not least, our 25th anniversary Wildlife Feature will top the day off with a colourful slideshow and talk by Ken Elliott from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources introducing a new publication entitled "A land manager's guide to conserving habitat for forest birds in southern Ontario".

  We hope you will join us from 9:00 to 3:30! To register online please click HERE or contact Mary at 613-258-8241 or at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  The cost is $30.00 which includes lunch or $20 without lunch.

  We also invite interested Sponsors and Exhibitors to register using the same link - details and benefits are outlined.  Or, please email Melanie @ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  A special thank-you to all of our Sponsors thus far! 
• James H. Cayford Memorial Fund Creates New Interpretive Trail

  Donations continue to grow in support of the James H. Cayford Memorial Fund. This fund is in memory of Jim Cayford – friend, mentor and inspiration to the Eastern Ontario Model Forest. Established by his wife, Burla, and family, the fund pays tribute to Jim's lifetime commitment to and passion for our forests. Proceeds from this fund will help support the advancement of forest science through education and outreach efforts in eastern Ontario and beyond.

  In particular, a new interpretive trail will be established in Limerick Forest this year which will include descriptive flora and fauna signs, a viewing platform over a marsh, and a wooden bench. This EOMF Memorial Trail will be constructed in Jim's memory, and that of others who have served as inspiration to the Eastern Ontario Model Forest. Wooden duck boxes that have been constructed in memory of other friends who have departed in recent years will be mounted in the marsh this winter.

  We hope you will join us on June 14, 2012 for our Annual General Meeting at Limerick Forest, where we will celebrate Jim's life and contributions to forest science with the unveiling of this new interpretive trail.

  Donations in support of the fund can still be made online by clicking HERE or by contacting Mary Humphries at (613) 258-8241.
• Christmas Forest Seminar Proves Timely and Interesting

  Many thanks to those that attended the Christmas Forest Seminar. The consensus, after a review of our evaluation forms, was that the international theme in recognition of the UN Declaration of 2011 being the International Year of Forests was both timely and interesting.

  Special thanks and kudos to our engaging speakers who gave us concise yet informative presentations as follows: first off was Peter Hall (EOMF director and CIF member) who set the context with an overview on the UN Declaration; Aran O'Carroll (Canadian Boreal Forest Agreement Secretariat) explained the significance of the CBFA for both the boreal forest found in Canada and across the northern hemisphere; Brian Bonnell (International Model Forest Network Secretariat) gave an engaging talk and slideshow showcasing the IMFN and its impressive work and impacts to date in over 60 countries, and their plans to celebrate its 20th Anniversary in 2012; David Nanang (Canadian Forest Service) gave us a deeper understanding of the current scientific research it is conducting and its relevance on the international front; Allister Hain (Forest Products Sector Council) gave a sobering yet hopeful perspective on the international and national influences affecting the Canadian forest products labour markets; and last but not least, Andrea Ellis Nsiah (Canadian Institute of Forestry) gave us an eye-opening orientation to "Forests Without Borders" and their current forestry initiatives in struggling countries abroad - including Haiti. 

  Thanks again everyone and hope to see you all back next year!