Ontario farmers, researchers and agricultural experts will gather at three regional events in July 2026 to discuss practical approaches to improving soil health, protecting water quality, and strengthening farm productivity.

Organized by the Greenbelt Foundation, the events will feature the following speakers: 

• -  Dr. Jenny Bower, Research Soil Scientist, Soil Health Institute;
• -  Adam Hayes, Soil Specialist, Soil Resource Group; 
• -  Margaret Ribey, Natural Resource Scientist, Soil Resource Group;
• -  Kokulan Vivekananthan, Water Quality Specialist, Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement;
• -  Local mayors and councillors, TBD. 

The events will also include a small-group workshop, facilitated by Camron Ogilvie, Founder, Curioso, on barriers to implementing Beneficial Management Practices (BMPs), practical strategies to make changes on the farm, and experiences improving soil health.

 Meeting details:

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• -  July 13, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Ocala Winery & Orchards, 971 High Point Road, Port Perry, ON L9L 1B3 (Registration link available here);
• -  July 14, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Erin Estate, 6107 Second Line, Orton, ON L0N 1N0 (Registration link available here);
• -  July 15, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., West Niagara Agricultural Centre & Fairgrounds, 7402 Mud Street West, Grassie, ON L0R 1M0 (Registration link available here).

The Greenbelt Foundation’s regional soil health events will explore how soil health, water quality, and farm productivity are connected through practical, farmer-led management approaches. These interactive events will bring together farmers, agricultural professionals, and advisors to discuss real-world challenges, share practical strategies for improving soil health and water quality, and explore how BMPs can be implemented on Ontario farms.

Source:  Greenbelt Foundation July 6, 2026 news release