As I write this during the first week of March I have a pan of maple sap boiling outside, the harvest from twenty trees around the house. My father says the lure of maple syrup is the opportunity to harvest a crop before you plant any seeds. For me, however, it is a small ritual to be done to mark the passing of the seasons and to celebrate the beginning of a new year. Spring is the eternal promise of a new year, one that will be better than the last one.

As EFAO embarks on its 25th year, we will take time to celebrate our successes and the people who have made major contributions to the growth of ecological agriculture in Ontario. Along with the memories, the coming year will bring the excitement of new beginnings. Across the province exciting things are sprouting and growing, from kitchen discussions on production economics and marketing co-ops to actions against GE wheat and special farm tours for cottage groups or with farm mentors. As always EFAO is bringing ecological farmers together to share experiences, support each other and create an ecological community. Much of this work goes by with little fanfare and with little more than a “thank you for your help” as a reward.

During those thinking moments over the next few months, whether they be from a tractor seat, a stroll in the pasture or kneeling in the garden, remember the many farmers that have contributed to the development of ecological agriculture, and at the same time, consider your future contributions to caring for our earth and further promoting ecological agriculture in your community.

Ann Slater