Published by Communications and Public Affairs (519) 824-4120, Ext. 56982 or 53338
News Release
April 22, 2003
Ceremony recognizes agricultural contributions
An Ontario fruit and vegetable grower whose "open farm" policy has helped in studies of food safety was recognized by the University of Guelph during an April 21 volunteer recognition event held by the Ontario Agricultural College (OAC).
Jeff Wilson, a 1976 diploma graduate and owner of Birkbank Farms in Orton, Ont., received the 2003 Outstanding Service Award to recognize contributions to agricultural research and teaching programs.
His farm has played host to numerous tours, from high school students learning about agricultural biotechnology to more than 5,000 visitors involved in a three-year trial on agronomic and consumer perception aspects of genetically engineered crops. Wilson also participated in a pilot project for an on-farm food safety program for fruit and vegetable growers.
The Outstanding Service Award was established in 1983 to recognize individuals whose exceptional volunteer work has benefited the university's agricultural research, teaching and extension programs. The award was presented to Wilson by OAC dean Craig Pearson.
An Order of OAC was awarded to Ken Murray, a 1950 animal science graduate who has distinguished himself as a respected business executive, community leader, philanthropist and volunteer. Murray is a former chair of the University of Guelph's Board of Governors, former chair of the Homewood Corp. and founder of the Homewood Foundation. He also launched the Murray Alzheimer Research and Education Project at the University of Waterloo. He was named to the Order of Canada in 2001 and, along with his wife, Marilyn, was honoured as the 2002 Waterloo-Wellington Philanthropist of the Year.
OAC also presented 11 recognition awards to volunteers who have made significant contributions to agricultural or rural community organizations in Ontario.
The 2003 recipients are:
· Peter Coughler of Port Hope, a member of the Ontario Institute of Agrologists
· Hector Delanghe of Blenheim, a 2002 inductee into the Kent Agricultural Hall of Fame
· Laurie Farquharson of Mount Brydges, IPM/Rural Expo 2002
· Gordon Garlough of Williamsburg, Dundas Federation of Agriculture
· Bev and Beverly Hughes of Ilderton, Tri-County Heritage Club
· Patricia Marcotte of Wahnipital, Ontario Goat Breeders' Association
· Elaine Simpson of Shanty Bay, Simcoe County Federation of Agriculture
· Wayne McCausland of Meaford, 4-H Ontario
· Marie and Dale Smith of Mount Hope, Halton Wentworth Federation of Agriculture
· Heidi Wagner of Breslau, Waterloo Federation of Agriculture
· Deborah and Bruce Whale of Alma, Ontario Broiler Hatching Egg and Chick Commission/Dairy Farmers of Ontario
For media questions, contact Communications and Public Affairs: Lori Bona Hunt (519) 824-4120, Ext. 53338, or Rachelle Cooper, (519) 824-4120, Ext. 56982.
