November issue of EcoNews

This is a list of organics related news and events taking palce on the Vancouver Island during November 2004. We received them through the November issue of the EcoNews newsletter, http://www.earthfuture.com/econews/.

Organic Farming

In a third study released in October, the largest ever comparative study of conventional and organic farming showed that organic farming increases biodiversity at every level of the food chain, from bacteria, plants and earthworms to beetles, mammals and birds. The study reviewed data from Europe, Canada, New Zealand and the US. Out of 99 comparisons, 66 found that organic farming benefited wildlife; 8 concluded that it was detrimental; and 25 produced mixed results. According to the researchers, organic farming helps biodiversity by using fewer pesticides and inorganic fertilizers, and by adopting wildlife friendly practices where there are no crops, such as not weeding close to hedges, and mixing arable and livestock farming. In England, two species of bat were found only on organic farms, and foraging activity by bats on organic farms was up by 84%. We are the answer.

Organic Gardening Club

Gardeners can help. If you’d like some support in learning the how’s and why’s of organic gardening, the Society of Organic Urban Landcare (SOUL) is launching its Organic Gardening Club right here in Greater Victoria on Sunday November 7th, at the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific. (See Green Diary). The club will bring gardeners together to share their experiences and tips, enjoy outings, and have a sustainably good time. For details, call Carolyn Herriot, 881-1555.

Events

Sun 7, 2-4pm Launch of the SOUL Organic Garden Club. (Society for Organic Urban Landcare), Kempster Building at the HCP 505, Quayle Road. 'A Journey Beneath The Soil' presented by Heide Hermary; 'The Secret of Multiplication is Division' a demonstration with Carolyn Herriot and Chris Kennedy. ‘The Magic Of Worm Composting’ with David Greig. Plant Displays, Raffle Prizes, Refreshments, Guided Garden Tour of the HCP Donation: $5 (Refunded with membership). http://www.organiclandcare.org

Mon 8, 9-5pm Organic Land Care Course: Organic Soil Management, with Heide Hermary. Cedar Hill Golf Course. $75. 595-7121

Thur 18, 7pm Canadian Organic Growers, Vancouver Island Chapter. Growing salad mix year round, 851 Cormorant St. Free. 642-3671.

Mon 29, 9-5pm Organic Land Care Course: Working with Nature. Landscape Water Management. Cedar Hill Golf Course. $75. 595-7121

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http://www.earthfuture.com/econews