Farming a cornerstone of economic development

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Agriculture was in the spotlight Sept. 18 to 21 as the residents of Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve celebrated the importance of food producers locally and globally. The theme of this year's fall fair was "agriculture around the world."

The annual event is sponsored by the Wikwemikong Agricultural Group.

In the community arena, visitors had an opportunity to view exhibits illustrating agricultural practices from countries such as Greece, Italy and Mexico. Students from Pontiac school had created colourful and educational displays featuring crops and food products from other lands. Local produce and prize-winning preserves also were on display.

Farming plays a key role in the local economy, according to Mark Leahy, a representative of the Indian Agricultural Program of Ontario.

"There are approximately 25 to 30 farms on the reserve. They are basically beef farms with cow/calf operations. There are no dairy farms here but a lot of good quality calves are produced in Wikwemikong."

Calves are shipped to feedlots on the Six Nations reserve for finishing. "They grow lots of corn in that area," Leahy explained.

"When it comes time to slaughter the animals, they go to an abattoir at Port Dover."

Although the finishing is completed elsewhere, he reports that Wikwemikong is enjoying some economic spin-offs of the beef industry.

"This year, three carcasses came back to Andy's (Grocery and Fresh Meat) store in Wikwemikong to be cut up," Leahy said. "Also some of the local farmers send some calves out to be sold at the stocker sales."

Leahy, who works out of an office in Stirling, travels to Manitoulin Island frequently to offer workshops to First Nations farmers. He pointed out that the Indian Agricultural Program is owned by status Indian farmers in Ontario. The non-profit organization helps farmers with lines of credit, extension and advisory services and assistance with loan applications.

"I talk one on one with the farmers and provide seminars and demonstrations to help farmers improve their skills," Leahy said.

"Last spring we did some work on how to do environmental farm plans. We look at all environmental issues, including fuel tank security, chemical storage and safe drinking water sources. In addition, we discuss how to deal with livestock medicines properly and how to keep accurate records of drug injections."

Planning ahead is also a big part of the ongoing educational program.

"We help farmers with year-end summaries and financial record-keeping as well," he said. "That way a farmer can see how he did last year and how to plan for the future."

Leahy has joined forces with members of the Wikwemikong Agricultural Society to restore the faltering 4-H program.

"The 4-H program helps develop self-confidence and a sense of responsiblity," he said. "The program has been sporadic on the reserves over the years, but now we are trying to generate more interest in it."

Hazel Fox Recollet of Wikwemikong supports Leahy's view that the Anishinaabe 4-H clubs are well worth reviving. During the fall fair she approached many community members in an effort to recruit at least four leaders.

The 4-H program is designed to provide personal development for youth aged 10 to 21. Through projects involving livestock management, food preparation, horticultural enterprises and environmental projects, members develop self-confidence and a sense of responsibility.

"When you volunteer with 4-H you are showing that you care about the well being of our people," she said. "Being involved with the program helps to develop leadership skills and to re-instill high-spirited work habits. It also assists in the development of future leaders and in the social development of the community."

Fox Recollet has already signed up to be a leader herself. "Our goal is to enhance and renew agricultural and life skills for self-sufficiency in the home, school and community," she said.