Haldimand Federation of Agriculture and Haldimand County Economic Development hosting workshop on Farm Biosecurity and On‑Farm Diversification

The Haldimand Federation of Agriculture (HFA) and Haldimand County Economic Development and Tourism division are pleased to announce Securing the Farm: Biosecurity & Income Diversification, a collaborative workshop designed to support the resilience and long‑term sustainability of the local agricultural sector. 

This free event will take place on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the Haldimand Agricultural Community Centre in Kohler, bringing together farmers, entrepreneurs, industry experts, and local partners for a day of practical learning and strategic insight.

The morning session will focus on biosecurity with Guest Speaker Al Dam, Provincial Poultry Specialist, providing guidance on best practices to reduce risk, protect livestock and crops, and enhance on-farm safety protocols.

The afternoon session will explore On-Farm Diversified Uses (OFDUs), highlighting new revenue opportunities and ways farms can expand or adapt operations to support economic growth while complementing community needs and rural tourism. Attendees will hear directly from local operators Homegrown Hideaway and Brantview Apples who will share practical examples and valuable insights from their on‑farm diversification journeys.

“The Haldimand Federation of Agriculture is proud to host this important event. Through support from the Revive Fund and Haldimand County, we can bring timely, relevant training to our members - strengthening farm resilience, promoting best practices, and helping producers explore new income opportunities. Investments like this reinforce the strength of our agricultural community and help ensure our sector continues to thrive.” — Haldimand Federation of Agriculture

“This workshop aligns closely with the priorities of the Haldimand Agricultural Advisory Committee, particularly the shared commitment to expanding educational opportunities for the local farming community. As interest in On Farm Diversified Uses continues to grow, sessions like this support both rural business development and tourism-related goals by helping farm operators explore new,  and viable ways to diversify. We value our ongoing partnerships with the HFA and are thrilled to be a part of this important learning event.” — Lidy Romanuk, Manager of Economic Development & Tourism, Haldimand County

Event Details

Securing the Farm: Biosecurity & Income Diversification Workshop

Location: Haldimand Agricultural Community Centre - 1678 Kohler Rd, Cayuga, ON 

Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026

Time: 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

• 10 a.m to 12 p.m.: Biosecurity session and commodity roundtable (HFA Members only) 
• 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.: Complementary Lunch (Open to HFA & Non HFA Members) 
• 1 p.m. to  2:30 p.m.: On-Farm Diversified Uses Session (Open to HFA & Non HFA Members)

Registration is required. To Register, visit the event listing on Eventbrite.

About the Haldimand Federation of Agriculture

The Haldimand Federation of Agriculture represents local farmers and works to support a strong and sustainable agricultural sector. Through advocacy, education, and community partnerships, the HFA is committed to enhancing farming operations and strengthening the rural economy.

About Haldimand County Economic Development and Tourism (EDT)

Haldimand County Economic Development and Tourism is the liaison to the Haldimand County Agricultural Advisory Committee of Council. EDT supports business growth, tourism development, and strategic initiatives that enhance the economic vitality of the County. Through collaboration and industry partnerships, the team works to support local enterprises from agriculture to small businesses to tourism-based ventures.