Greenbelt Foundation

🍂✨ Ever wondered why the leaves change colour in the fall? Here’s the science behind the stunning transformation that lights up the #Greenbelt! 🌳 As temperatures drop and daylight decreases, trees prepare for winter by slowing down their production of chlorophyll, the green pigment responsible for photosynthesis. As chlorophyll fades, other pigments in the leaves become more visible: * Carotenoids: These pigments produce vibrant yellows and oranges, found in leaves of species like birch and aspen. * Anthocyanins: Responsible for the deep reds and purples seen in maples and oaks, these pigments are produced in response to light exposure and the sugar concentration in the leaves. The combination of these pigments, along with factors like soil conditions and weather, creates the breathtaking fall palette we adore. So, next time you're admiring the autumn colors, you’ll know just how magical the science behind it all is! 🍁🔬 What’s your favorite color of fall? Share with us in the comments!

“All of the Greenbelt has incredible soil, combined witht he climate in ontario we really do have the ability to grow enough food to sustain our population year-round” -Alexandra Powell, Owner and Operatoer, Alexandra’s Farm Driven by her passion for environmental science, Alexandra is a #WomeninAgriculture who nurtures both the land and the community, creating a space where people can connect with their food and nature. With Ontario’s rich agricultural land, Alexandra is committed to year-round food production, ensuring future generations can benefit from this vital resource. 🌍💚 At her farm, community engagement flourishes as visitors experience the joy of picking flowers and herbs, fostering a deeper relationship with the land. Join us in celebrating Alexandra's mission to nourish both people and the planet while encouraging new farmers to enter the field! https://lnkd.in/eECfjaud

🌿 Meet our final 2024 #WomeninAgriculture, Alexandra Powell, the heart behind Alexandra's Farm! As a woman in agriculture, she operates a Market Garden focused on growing a diversity of vegetables. Inspired by nature, she emphasizes the connection between environmental and human health. Her farm fosters community engagement and joy through food, aiming to nourish both people and the planet while encouraging new farmers to enter the field. 🥕 Watch our latest video to learn how Alexandra is making a positive impact on the land and local food systems. 🌱💚https://lnkd.in/eECfjaud #WomensHistoryMonth

"🍇 “Ontario is on the same latitude as well-known wine-growing regions around the world, like France or Italy. We get to make incredible wine from the grapes grown right in our own province, and that’s super special.” – Ali and Jess Oppenlaender, Liebling Wines. Ali and Jess helped found Liebling wines by returning to their agricultural roots, and combining their passions for science and winemaking. Growing up in a family vineyard, the sisters draw from their heritage and Jess’s training in cool climate viticulture to produce exceptional, locally grown wines in the #ONGreenbelt. 🍷 Their mission? To connect with consumers and showcase the potential of Ontario’s wine regions—right on par with the best in the world! 🌍 https://lnkd.in/exsbKfFm

Next up in for our #WomeninAgriculture 🍇 Meet Ali and Jess Oppenlaender, the sisters behind Liebling Wines! In our latest video, they share their passion for grape growing and winemaking, managing everything from the vineyard to the bottle. From a multi-generational family of grape-growers, the sisters embraced their deep-rooted passion for agriculture, science, and the art of winemaking to form Liebling Wines. Watch how these two are shaping the future of agriculture and wine-making!https://lnkd.in/exsbKfFm 🌿🍷 #WomensHistoryMonth

🌿 "Our dishes are seasonal so people are learning what’s growing at different times of the year and seeing how much different produce we can actually grow in Ontario" — Celeste Lopreiato, founder of The Conscious Farm & Kitchen. In our latest video, Celeste shares how sustainable agriculture and local food are essential for building healthier communities. By growing and harvesting organic produce, Celeste’s farm not only reduces the environmental impact but also brings fresh, nutrient-packed meals to local tables. Supporting local food systems strengthens biodiversity, promotes food security, and ensures a greener future for all. Watch Celeste’s inspiring journey in the first video of our 2024 Women in Agriculture campaign! 🌱💚 https://lnkd.in/ecJx6J99

To celebrate October's #WomensHistoryMonth, we set out to meet female farmers in the #Greenbelt and share their stories. 🌱✨ Meet Celeste Lopreiato, owner of Conscious Farm Kitchen, who delivers locally sourced meals in Southern Ontario. Passionate about small-scale farming, she aims to connect urban consumers with seasonal produce while emphasizing the importance of preserving farmland and revitalizing rural areas to encourage young people to pursue farming. As a woman in agriculture, she is passionate about growing organic produce and crafting plant-based products that support healthy communities and a healthy planet. Watch the full video to see how Celeste is making a difference in local food systems and inspiring others to embrace farming! 💚 #WomenInAgriculture

Are you a food producer or entrepreneur looking to start or expand a food or beverage business in Halton? Join Halton Region for a 2-day "Selling Food to Ontario" event on October 17 and November 12 at Country Heritage Park in Milton. Hear from top industry professionals and experts. Visit us online to learn more and register: https://ow.ly/GkJX50Trbft

One week left to apply!

Nutrient-Rich Crops: Well-managed soil supports the growth of nutrient-dense plants, providing fresh, local food for our communities. Carbon Sequestration: Healthy soils can capture and store carbon, helping to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Biodiversity: Thriving soil ecosystems foster a rich diversity of organisms that enhance soil structure and fertility, ultimately leading to more resilient farming systems. Water Retention: Good soil health improves water infiltration and retention, reducing the need for irrigation and mitigating the impacts of drought. Our program focuses on promoting sustainable soil management practices that enhance these benefits. Through workshops, resources, and on-the-ground support, we help farmers implement innovative techniques such as cover cropping or reducing tillage. These practices not only improve soil health but also boost crop resilience and farm productivity. By prioritizing soil health, we’re investing in a sustainable future for Ontario’s agriculture, ensuring that our farmers can thrive and continue to feed our communities for generations to come! 🍅🥕 Learn more about our Soil Health Program: https://lnkd.in/gsCjvhix.