The Essex Soil and Crop Improvement Association (ESCIA) is one of more than 50 local county and district branches of the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA). Our local chapter reflects the mandate of our provincial organization: to facilitate responsible, economic management of soil, water, air and crops through development and communication of innovative farming practices.
A not-for-profit organization, the ESCIA encourages stewardship of farmland and improvement of field crop production in Essex County by:
- Stressing the importance of soil fertility as a basis for soil conservation and for the efficient production of crops of high yield and nutritive value.
- Encouraging control of soil erosion through soil management practices such as tillage, crop rotation, ditch bank stabilization, grassed waterways, windbreaks and crop residue management, etc.
- Encouraging the wider adoption of such crops and varieties as are best suited to the soils and climatic conditions of Essex County.
- Developing a greater interest in the preparation, use and production of high quality seed, grain and forage.
- Holding meetings, tours and field days for the discussion of all matters relating to crop production and crop and soil improvement and assisting in the holding of such meetings and field days.
- Conducting and directing educational work, demonstrations and projects throughout Essex County for the dissemination of a wider knowledge of field husbandry and soil management such as designed to bring about a realization of the aims and objects herein set forth.
- Co-operating with agricultural and other interested organizations and individuals in holding of soil improvement and field crop competitions and seed fairs and conservation farm contests.
- Collecting and disseminating market information, field crop information and recommendations and regulations governing production, marketing and purchase of seed of field crops.
- Encourage research as needed to further the aims and objectives of the Association.
- Encourage energy conservation and pesticide safety in crop production, storage and handling.
We cooperate with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food and Agriculture Canada, and other agencies in furthering these objectives.