ADMASTON/BROMLEY (Osceola) — Between the rain showers Renfrew County was able to host its annual summer twilight meeting. This year the event was held in Osceola. The host families were Rene and Karen Coulas plus Tim and Leanne Egan.
The event featured controlled tile drainage and the first order of business was to visit a field owned by Tim and Leanne. Tim spoke on the installation of the tile and how the controlled gates operated. Most people took the time to check out the inner workings of the gates and the monitoring equipment deployed by Algonquin College as part of the water quality analysis network of the Muskrat Watershed Council. The field featured two controlled drains and one drain left uncontrolled.
The event shifted to the Osceola Parish Hall and the guest speakers took front and centre. Karen and Rene spoke on their involvement with the Muskrat Watershed Council and how the agricultural community can play an important role in protecting the water quality of Muskrat lake. Positive reinforcement of best management practices and low cost solutions was shared among the audience.
Julie Sylvester from Algonquin College and summer intern student Martyna spoke next. The college is actively collecting data on the drains along with constant soil monitoring plus doing biomass collection. Both Julie and Martyna shared the results obtained so far and how, by working in partnership with the farming community, the general public is now realizing the proactive approach taken by the farmers in the watershed.
Drainage contractor Peter Neil was on hand to answer questions on the best locations for controlled tile drainage, proper tile patterns and what will and won’t work when doing installation.
The evening wrapped up with a barbecue and fellowship among the attendees. Barclay Dick and Son Farm Supply graciously sponsored the barbecue.
