Examining the viability of producing, processing and marketing Ontario grown small cucumbers, for gherkin pickles, is the focus of a pilot project undertaken by T & J Haskett Farms Ltd. that is receiving up to $28,865 in funding support from the Agricultural Adaptation Council.

Approximately 11,000 tons of consumer-popular small pickle cucumbers are imported into Canada annually in the form of brined stock, fresh packed and shelf ready. To break into this market with a domestic product, T & J Haskett Farms Ltd. - operators of a diversified multi-crop agricultural production unit - along with Bicks Inc. and the University of Guelph, are investigating existing and new European technology and cultivation methods for small cucumbers that they will adapt to Ontario's soil and climate.

This initiative will contribute to the long-term economic health of Ontario's rural communities and diversify crop production.

The AAC is a non-profit coalition of 54 agricultural, agri-business and rural organizations working together to support Ontario’s agricultural sector and rural communities. The AAC receives its funding through Ontario’s share of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Canadian Adaptation Rural Development (CARD) fund.

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For more information:

Mary Jarvis, Communications Manager, Agricultural Adaptation Council Tel: (519) 822-7554 Mary's e-mail or

Tom Haskett, Manager, T & J Haskett Farms Ltd. Tel: (519) 426-0705 e-mail:ciderkeg@kwic.com