The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is planning two evening information sessions in eastern Ontario to discuss ice storm related research findings. Anyone interested in hearing about the impact of the ice storm on agricultural structures and the latest recommendations for farm generators are invited to attend. You will also find out about strategies for saving money under the current deregulation of the electric power industry.

The dates for the meetings are:

April 18 - Richmond Fire Hall, 6280 Perth St, Richmond

April 19 - South Plantagenet Hall, Cty Rd 9, Fournier

Agenda:

6:45 pm- Registration and coffee

7 pm- Structural Project Update

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs, jointly with the University of Guelph, Kemptville College Campus, has recently conducted a research project to study the impact of the Ice Storm on structures in Eastern Ontario. This session will discuss the findings of the project and will demonstrate new building plans available to farmers in Ontario. As well, a new "Farm Building Standards" publication will be introduced.

8 pm - Generator Project Update

OMAFRA, also jointly with the University of Guelph, Kemptville College Campus and Agviro Consulting has studied generator installations in the area, measuring electrical loads, generator outputs, etc. As a result of this project, improved methods for recommending the sizing for generators have been developed. As well, a computer program that has been developed to assist in sizing a generator will be demonstrated at this session.

For more information, please contact: Luc Brunet, Alfred OMAFRA, 613-679-4411 or

Steve Clarke, Kemptville OMAFRA, 613-258-8305