Innovating Sustainability at Black Dog Acres
Black Dog Acres, run by Doug Mitchell, is a small family farm in the Ariss/Ponsonby region of Wellington County. Unlike many farmers who inherit their knowledge from generations before, Doug and his wife Jenn started their farming journey without a farming background and “not an ounce of knowledge.” Over the past 13 years, through tenacious learning and curiosity, they’ve grown into pillar of sustainability and innovation in the local agricultural community.
Specializing in pastured beef, pork, turkeys, and chickens, Black Dog Acres is more than just a farm; it's a thriving example of regenerative agriculture and circular economy principles, proudly supported by Wellington County’s Experimental Acres programme is proud to support.
The Mitchells’ discovered the Experimental Acres programme through a Facebook advertisement and were drawn to its alignment with their values of sustainability, waste reduction, and nutrient cycling. They wanted to experiment with methods that could both enhance their farming practices, contribute positively to the environment, and give back to the farming community.
Black Dog Acres’ Experimental Acres project for 2024 is a collaboration with the Elora Distilling Company, which produces fine spirits, generating a significant amount of grain byproducts. Rich in nutrients, these byproducts have potential uses that go beyond mere waste and Black Dog Acres is using them in two distinct ways: to feed cattle and as a liquid soil amendment.
The Mitchells compared the growth of hay and soil health from traditional chemical fertilizers versus the distillers’ grains to uncover the most effective fertilization method.
The journey was not without its hurdles. Transporting and storing the grains posed logistical challenges, and setting up the necessary infrastructure was complex. A particularly memorable moment involved a run-in with the police while moving grains, highlighting the operational challenges of the project.
A significant breakthrough was the development of a nozzle system that allowed for efficient spreading of liquid over the fields, a testament to the Mitchells problem-solving skills and commitment to sustainability.
The Mitchells said the most rewarding aspect of the project has been the insights they gained from soil sampling and nutrient analysis, which will provide valuable data to guide future practices. They credit the Experimental Acres programme with giving them a deeper understanding of soil health and access to testing programmes, boosting their confidence in measuring the effects of their experimental methods to integrate waste products into farming.
Looking ahead, Black Dog Acres anticipates a shift in the farming landscape. Rising costs will drive the need for local, low-cost, and environmentally friendly alternatives. The Mitchells believe that the future of farming will be shaped by the ability to leverage opportunities like those provided through Experimental Acres. For other farmers considering the programme, Doug Mitchell wholeheartedly recommends it:
“The support and camaraderie within the programme have been invaluable, providing encouragement and fostering meaningful discussions. It's an opportunity to be part of a community dedicated to making a positive impact through innovative and sustainable practices.”