Joanna MacKenzie, M.Sc.

OACC Research Associate

E-mail: jmackenzie@nsac.ca

Born and raised in Truro, Nova Scotia, I had been surrounded by a farming community for many years before I became involved in agricultural research.

Growing up in a wonderful home surrounded by nature, I quite naturally became interested in biology. This led me to Dalhousie University where I completed my B.Sc., and then on to McGill University in Montreal for an M.Sc in evolutionary biology.

Although I enjoyed my M.Sc. studies, I realized that I desired a more hands-on approach to research. So, I returned to my home in Nova Scotia and was introduced to agricultural research and the many opportunities to, quite literally, get my hands dirty!

I began my agricultural work at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College with projects examining the impacts of a range of management practices, including organic strategies, on the levels of healthy bioactive compounds in the wild blueberry.

When the opportunity arose in the spring of 2007 to work for the Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada, I jumped at it as an opportunity to learn more about the principles and practices of the expanding field of organic agriculture.

As a research technician for the OACC, I have had the opportunity to be involved in numerous aspects of organic agricultural research on a variety of crops. I am currently primarily focused on a project exploring cultural management strategies for potential control of harmful wireworm species.

I must say that I thoroughly enjoy the opportunities that I have been given to interact with producers and other researchers and the knowledge that the work with which I have been involved can have a real impact.

The organic community is particularly rewarding to work with, as there is a true desire to cooperate, explore new practices and learn. I am seizing every opportunity that I can to learn more about organic and sustainable agriculture.

To further my understanding, I am currently pursuing a Certificate of Specialization in Organic Agriculture through distance education in my spare time.

Posted December 2007