Caution: This episode mentions death by suicide and mental health crises.
In this episode of the Landscape Ontario Podcast, listeners are introduced to AgTalk, a free online mental health resource tailored for those in agriculture, horticulture and green trades. Hosted by Karina Sinclair, the episode features Merle Massie, executive director of the Do More Agriculture Foundation. Merle discusses the importance of mental health in these industries, the stigma surrounding it and the specific programs offered by the foundation, including workshops and the AgTalk platform. AgTalk is an anonymous, peer-to-peer support community within the broader Togetherall platform, with trained clinicians available to provide support. The episode highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by workers in these sectors and underscores the importance of creating a culture of openness and support. Merle also shares personal experiences and statistics that emphasize the need for mental health resources in agricultural communities.
Resources
Episode Transcription
AgTalk — The Do More Agriculture Foundation
Togetherall
Mental health support: get help - Canada.ca
Suicide Crisis Helpline
Merle Massie
Video version of this episode
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Groundbreaking Growth:
In this episode of the Landscape Ontario Podcast, host Karina Sinclair speaks with Joe Salemi, the Executive Director of Landscape Ontario, about the association's upcoming project — a new training facility at their head office in Milton, Ontario. This state-of-the-art complex aims to provide world-class training for professionals across the landscape and horticulture sectors. Funded partially by a grant from the provincial government's Skills Development Fund, the facility will offer practical, hands-on training opportunities tailored to various disciplines within the industry. Salemi highlights the mission and vision of Landscape Ontario, the anticipated benefits of the new facility, the rigorous planning that has gone into its development and the broader impact it aims to have on the industry both provincially and nationally. Stay tuned for future updates on the construction and eventual launch of this transformative training centre.
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Episode Transcription
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Plant hardiness zone map update:
In this episode of the Landscape Ontario Podcast, I’m delighted to welcome scientists Dan McKenney and John Pedlar from Natural Resources Canada, who will be discussing the latest revision to Canada's plant hardiness zone map and website, which was last updated in 2014. We'll be delving into the seven climate variables that define these zones, how they differ from the USDA zones, and the potential impact of climate change on invasive species. Additionally, you'll learn about the contributions of citizen science and collaborations with U.S. agencies. Join us to explore the history of these maps, important considerations for growers and gardeners, and the challenges presented by regional climate change. It promises to be a very informative discussion.
Resources
Episode Transcription
Canada’s Plant Hardiness Site
Report: Updated plant hardiness zones for Canada and assessment of change over time
Report: Change and evolution in the plant hardiness zones of Canada
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Spotted Lanternfly
In this episode, host Karina Sinclair discusses the Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive insect, with Jeanine West, PhD., a plant pathology and physiology expert from Landscape Ontario. Jeanine delves into the threat posed by the Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) to the agricultural sector, particularly the grape and wine industries in Canada. She outlines the insect's life cycle, preferred hosts and potential damage it can cause. Jeanine emphasizes the importance of early detection and public vigilance to slow its spread. She also discusses the importance of cooperation among the public, industry and government agencies, and debunks common myths about the pest. Landscape Ontario encourages landscapers to "Adopt a Spot" to keep an eye out for this pest as it moves from the U.S. into Canada.
Resources
Episode Transcription
Spotted lanternfly facts and resources - Landscape Ontario
Spotted lanternfly observations in Canada
D-24-01: Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) – Domestic and import phytosanitary requirements - inspection.canada.ca
Spotted Lanternfly prevention practices for producers | ontario.ca
Video version of this episode
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Going Green:
In this episode of the Landscape Ontario Podcast, host Karina Sinclair discusses the industry's shift from gas-powered to battery-powered equipment in pursuit of a zero-emissions future. Joined by Joe Salemi, executive director of Landscape Ontario, they delve into the City of Toronto's considerations for banning two-stroke engines and Landscape Ontario's pivotal role in influencing this decision through a comprehensive study. The episode covers challenges faced in adopting battery-powered equipment, the impact on small businesses and strategies for landscapers to prepare for future regulatory changes. They also discuss technological advancements in battery-powered gear, advocating for a collaborative approach to achieving sustainable practices in the landscape industry.
Resources
Episode Transcription
Report: Beyond Gas-Powered Equipment: Exploring a zero-emissions future in landscape horticulture
Working toward a zero-emissions future - Landscape Ontario
Toronto City Council votes against two-stroke engine ban - Landscape Ontario
Green Cities Foundation
Trees for Life
Canada - english