It can make some people think of their favourite golf course, it is synonymous with things Irish. For lovers of nature, green is emblematic of the environment itself… and reminds us that is must be protected.

In honour of Environment Week, from June 2 to 8, 2002, the entire edition of the Tipsheet will be an agri-environment issue. Environmental stewardship is one of the five elements that make up the new agricultural policy framework that Canada's ministers of agriculture agreed upon in principle in June 2001.

Open Farm Day Eastep Farms Limited produced an environmental farm plan (EFP) under an AAFC-funded environmental self-assessment program that is administered by the Ontario Agricultural Adaptation Council.

As part of Environment Week, the Easteps hosted an Open Farm Day on Thursday, June 6, to showcase some of their "green" activities.

Green Farming Steve and Sandra Eastep's farm could be considered and agri-environmental showcase. Though it took them 15 years of hard work, time and money to reach this point, the Easteps feel the effort was worth it because they believe that protecting the environment is essential to the long-term success of farming.

The public is growing more aware and concerned about the impact of agriculture on the environment. Producers know that they must be prepared to demonstrate their environmental responsibility to consumers if they want to maintain or expand their consumer base.

In addition, as Steve says, "You want to pass the farm on to the next generation in better condition than you received it."

A few of the effective environmental management practices the Easteps have adopted include soil conservation, the use of erosion control structures and unique storage structures for fuel and for solid and liquid manure.

For additional Tipsheet articles visit Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Tipsheet

For more information contact: Barry MacCormack Senior Communications Advisor Ontario Region Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (519) 837-5867