Evening winter meeting brings networking learning and community gathering
The Grey Soil & Crop AGM and Winter Meeting , as well as Social Tradeshow will take place on December 18, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Bognor Community Centre in Bognor, Ontario.
The evening format is new this year, offering participants a warm and welcoming environment to connect with others in the agriculture community. Doors will open at 5 p.m. for socializing, followed by a gourmet supper beginning at 5:30 p.m.
This event provides an opportunity for farmers, agribusiness professionals, and community members to come together in a relaxed and friendly setting. Attendees are encouraged to bring significant others, making the event a social occasion as much as an educational one. Agribusinesses will be stationed throughout the venue with displays, helping participants learn about new services, tools, and innovations while building professional relationships.
A key highlight of the evening will be a presentation by The Honourable Robert Black, P.Ag. (Hon.), Senator for Ontario. Senator Black has dedicated his life to supporting Canadian agriculture and rural leadership. His work includes contributions to OMAFRA, 4-H Ontario, the Ontario Soybean Growers, the Centre for Rural Leadership, and the Rural Ontario Institute. He often credits programs such as 4-H, Junior Farmers, and the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program for shaping his leadership journey.
His keynote address, titled Critical Ground: Why Soil is Essential to Canada’s Economic, Environmental, Human and Social Health, will share insights from a national soil study. This research also supported the proposed Bill S-230, which seeks to establish a national soil health strategy focused on protection, conservation, and long-term enhancement of soil resources. The talk will also touch on important challenges facing agriculture today, including land use pressures, climate change, labour shortages, artificial intelligence, and international trade.
Registration is required to attend. A fee of $30 reserves a dinner plate, and the annual membership for the Grey Soil and Crop Improvement Association is $50. Participants must pre-register by December 9, 2025, to secure their meal and participate fully in this informative and engaging evening.
Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo