Ontario’s horticultural sector looks forward to working with Joshua Mosiondz, the province’s new minor use coordinator. He’ll be mentored by Jim Chaput who is retiring in June after more than 20 years of service in the role. 

Mosiondz holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences from the University of Guelph.  He completed the co-op program and gained valuable on-the-ground experience for this role by working with the Pest Management Regulatory Agency of Health Canada as an assistant regional pesticide officer in its Pesticide Compliance Program.  There he developed a thorough understanding of the Pest Control Products Act and Regulations, its applicability and the responsibilities of growers and the industry.

He was a successful participant in the Undergraduate Student Experiential Learning (USEL) Program where he learned about the importance of applied research, technology transfer and developed key skills in facilitation and relationship building with stakeholders.  In this role he had the opportunity to assist in performing various cultivar, biopesticide, plant growth regulator, insect biocontrol and insect monitoring trials and surveys across Ontario. He managed and published the weekly vegetable crop report, delivered presentations to growers and assisted with the writing of research project proposals.

He also spent two co-op work terms as a Field Research Assistant – Pest Management Scout in the Horticulture Crops Unit.

Josh will be based out of the Guelph office but will be working from home for the foreseeable future. He can be reached at joshua.mosiondz@ontario.ca, or 1-226-971-3407. 

Source:  Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs March 29, 2021 communiqué to stakeholders