In this Issue...
Before you read further... Look at the stamp on the envelope. Notice that it shows a Black Walnut! This is one of the series on fruit trees of Canada. The next issue of the Nuttery will be mailed using another stamp in this series that also show a nut tree, namely the two-beaked hazel. Watch for it, and keep the stamps for your favourite stamp collector!
This issue announces the forthcoming ECSONG winter meeting. As usual, this evening meeting offers several speakers, exhibits, member's test recipes, and much more. If you have any interesting nut growing, harvesting, storing, or processing tools or equipment, or books, pix, crafts, etc. others should see, bring them along for the exhibit area. Bring any spare seed or stock you might have for the seed exchange. Try out any new nut recipes that tickle your fancy and bring them for testing in the food area. The meeting is open to the public. Bring family and friends. See the announcements box on this page for the where and when details. Call any executive members for more information.
This issue of the Nuttery has lots of information about nut growing activities in Eastern Ontario. However, it does not cover everything. If you have something you would like to report to our members and readers, or ideas, suggestions, concerns and so on, send your letters and article anytime to the Nuttery. The Nuttery is your direct line to all the other nut growers in Eastern Ontario ( and beyond!).
Do not miss the Nuttery Marketplace for commercial source of seed, stock, literature, even a tree farm. Also, in the last Section on Membership, note there is a copy of the membership application form, good for renewals, or to be passed along to others who are looking to join ECSONG.
Report on Oak Valley Fall 1992 Field Day - 24 October 1992
A cool, partly overcast day - "perfect for working".
Nursery area - Seed and sapling nursery areas, expanded and cleared of competing vegetation by Steve Palmer, were planted fully with about 20 of Ralph's catalpa seedlings set out by Kathleen Jones and about 150 black walnut whips (Glebe stock already 2' or taller from our seed nursery). Two sheet metal germination chambers about 3 x 10 feet were layered with walnuts and butternuts and put to bed in hope of finding the same high germination rates this technique provided last spring. A small number of horse chestnut, hickory, beech etc. nuts were planted - all with help from Irene Woolford, Alec and Kathleen Jones, and supervised by George Truscott, Nurseryman.
All nut trees in Section East were prepared for winter with tree guards, leaf mulch and marker stakes. Whips in the sapling nursery had guards placed - until supply ran out. Guards will soon be added to the remainder.
Outfitted by Josée Brizard in protective gear, Ralph McKendry attacked some of the felled Manitoba maples to reduce them to firewood and brush. This work is not more than half done but probably could be finished after snowfall when and as the brush is being burned.
Culvert replacement and grading of the entranceway with crushed stone had been carried out by the Municipality in the week prior to Field Day. They could not breach their rule against using the Township's backhoe for non-municipal work so nothing was done then about removal of stumps from the field in Section West. However, Josée later arranged for the South Nation River Conservation Authority to engage a local backhoe operator who removed and piled the stumps and also transplanted several small white ash trees. Tentative arrangements were made for a nearby farmer to disc this field this fall. He suggested buckwheat for a cover crop next year.
Ernie Kerr had surveyed the property line west of the entrance and placed pickets. Josée and Ralph viewed the section, extending some 150 feet west from the gate, where a berm will be needed across a swampy area to permit installing a boundary fence and shelter belt of conifers. Raising the berm, together with the backfilling of a ditch and other minor landscaping jobs, will require from 2 to 4 hours of backhoe time and should be done this fall.
This Field Day/Work Day was quite productive and puts within reach our activities planned for this year. Continuing cooperative efforts of ECSONG and the Authority will ensure that plans become reality and at a rate which encourages and satisfies participants.
Ralph McKendry, Chair, Oak Valley Plantation Committee.
(Ed note... Ralph's report included photos. We are looking into the feasibility of printing photos in future issue of the Nuttery.)
New Photos for the Chapter's Photo Library
During the three spring field days of '92 Mary Jane Jones took many coloured pictures which she has kindly donated to the Chapter Photo Library. Two photo albums have been purchased and the pix are been put into them, properly labelled. Our thanks to MJ!
As many of you know, the Chapter has been accumulating photos of its activities from its very beginnings in the late 1970's. Though the pix taking was somewhat sporadic, quite a few pictures are now on record. These pix can be used by members for their own purposes. For example, several years ago, late members Fil Park and George Joiner made an attractive and informative poster board about tree management at the Baxter Nut Grove. This display board is still in use today. It is excellent documentary on the techniques that have used over the years to create the excellent nut grove we see today.
Pix from the collection has also been used from time to time in presentations and speeches. The Chapter encourages members and friends to take pix about nut growing that they can donate to the library. Also, anyone interested in helping organize and document the collection, or who would like to use it, should call Bob Scally our librarian, or the Editor.
Concern for the future of the Green Belt
Some local citizens have noticed what they believe to be a change in the NCC's concept on what the Green Belt around the region is for. The possibility that the belt may be opened to development at odds with the idea of a public green space looms.
The Dolman Ridge area, with its many nut tree arboretum and plantations, is in the Green Belt. Should ECSONG take a closer look at the concerns expressed? A group called the "Alliance to save our Greenbelt" (ATSOG) has recently been formed. Should we connect with this group to tell them about our interests? Should we work together?
If you are interested in this matter, you can get more information about ATSOG by calling Ron Chiarelli, Ottawa 820-9916. If you want ECSONG to get involved, or not, call any member of the executive and make your desires known.
You may recall earlier reports about a Time Capsule. Tubman Funeral Home's planned to seal a time capsule in 1992 for 75 years. They also planned to send out invitations to its opening in 2067, Canada' Bicentennial, to young people in the region. Along with each invitation, they wanted to include an acorn, to be planted and nurtured, as a reminder of the value of trees to this planet. They asked us for our help.
George Truscott, our Most Intrepid Seed Collector, volunteered to gather and deliver the one thousand acorns sought. He did so unfalteringly! The Chapter also volunteered to provide instruction on growing these trees, which is included as a flyer with this issue of the Nuttery.
Many thanks to George for his time and trouble from all of us!
ECSONG offers grants up to $500 each to further its goals through projects of its membership. Proposals are received by the Chapter's executive and judged against set criteria. The documentation for two potential proposals are reprinted here as examples of excellent style and content that future proponents might follow. Both are from the Oak Valley Plantation Committee, Ralph McKendry, Chair.
I. Roadside Fence and Gateway
OBJECTIVE - To define and protect the roadside (north) boundary of the Oak Valley property with a fence and gate that are distinctive and practical.
RATIONALE - The wire fence fronting the site to the west of the gate is virtually non-existent due to decay and neglect. A barrier is needed to prevent intrusion by animals, snowmobiles, etc. For this purpose a cedar rail fence is considered most suitable as it conforms with a rustic, parklike setting and serves as a snowfence and wind screen to shelter small trees pending growth of a conifer shelterbelt to be established just inside the fence. The roadside fence east of the gate is in just-fair shape and (later) should be replaced with a similar cedar rail fence.
FENCE - Cedar posts of smaller-than-usual calibre will be planted in pairs about 12" apart at 10-foot intervals along the surveyed property line west of the gateway. Discs of cedar 9 to 12" in diameter and about 10" thick and secured between post-pairs by a strand of wire will separate three runs of split or round rails to produce a fence about 3 feet in height. For about 75 feet west of the gateway the fenceline crosses swampy land where fill is needed to form a berm level with the crown of the road and wide enough (3+ m.) to accommodate both the fence and a conifer shelterbelt.
GATEWAY - The opening will be in a set back about 20 feet from the shoulder of the road so 3 or 4 cars can park in the bay outside the gate. A narrower, higher panel of fence will frame the opening on each side to accommodate signage. The opening can be closed by clasping together lengths of chain extending from gateposts.
MATERIALS/SERVICES - The chair OVPC can supply fence posts and gateposts from his woodlands at no cost other than a modest amount of labour. Old fence rails at least 12 feet long will need to be located and likely will need to be purchased. Machine time will be needed for grading the berm and boring post holes. Erection of the fence would not only offer a satisfying challenge for ECSONG participants but would provide our Chapter with a recognizable and enduring stake in development of the Oak Valley site in conjunction with the South Nation River Conservation Authority.
COSTS - It is possible that cost-sharing with the Authority might see them undertake to pay for machines needed and ECSONG pay for the fence and gateway. This would be consistent with the unwritten understanding that SNRCA take responsibility for soil-related expenses and ECSONG for plantings and appurtenances. Although not likely to be needed, a contingency reserve of up to $500 should be held available if absolutely required to see the project completed.
Note: A line of stout cedar posts along the west border of the white pine plantation in Section East is needed to prevent further damage to trees from careless operation of vehicles. Holes for about 12 to 15 such posts should be drilled concurrently with the project above.
II. Tree Nursery Enclosure
OBJECTIVE - To protect the tree nursery area from rodents, casual intruders and drying winds.
RATIONALE - The Committee wishes to be able to grow sufficient supplies of nut tree seedlings to stock the Oak Valley plantation as well as provide for wider distribution throughout the Nation River watershed.
DESCRIPTION - A plot in the region of the existing nursery but 2 to 3 times larger will be enclosed by a rodent-proof fence/barrier measuring about 30 feet east to west and 50 feet north to south. As the concrete foundation wall of a former barn can form the west side of the enclosure, fencing is needed for only three sides. The fence will be supported by cedar posts 4'6" high, spaced 8 feet apart and connected by two runs of 2" x 4" rails, the top one at or near the top of the posts and the bottom rail 1 foot above grade. Sheet metal will extend downward from the bottom rail and into the ground for about one foot. Snow fencing will extend from the bottom rail upward for 4 feet. [It is supplied in 50' rolls.] The gate which affords access will have a 1-foot high sill clad with sheet-metal.
MATERIALS - The chair can supply posts and lumber from his woodlands at no cost. Scrap sheet metal exists on site. Snow fencing @ $30/50 feet, gate hardware and preservative for the lumber is estimated at about $125 and the (shared) cost of a tractor-mounted posthole augur about $100. A total of $250 should suffice to cover foreseeable (and unforeseen) expenses.
WORK SCHEDULE - Posts to be cut in spring (? April), peeled and delivered to site. [A 2- or 3-person work party, chainsaw and trailer needed.] Postholes should be dug with tractor-mounted augur while it is on-site for work on the north boundary fence. Construction of the fence and soil preparation within the fenced area could be a prime activity for a Field Day in May.
Notes on the Evolution of a Nutter
That adage "Mighty oaks from little acorns grow" will, in botanic terms at least, seem self-evident to any nutter. Somewhat less obvious is the idea that planting seeds of tree-awareness in young minds can foster a lifelong interest in trees - and in the larger natural world. In support of this notion let me cite a series (of one) which, though of dubious statistical validity, seems quite convincing - to me.
My earliest memory, over three score and ten years ago, is of "Grandpa Challies" showing me the leaves on a bough he drew down into the porch as I dandled on his knee. Later, that neighbour - who was not really my grandfather - moved from Winchester to Morrisburg where his son, George, had become a tooth brush manufacturer and provincial politician.
However, Grandpa kept in touch and one springtime birthday, possibly my eighth, he appeared with a black walnut sapling which we planted at the back of the garden. Over the next decade my tree and I grew in stature together until, about the time I left home for college, it was killed by heat from a nearby building fire. That young tree, long gone but not forgotten, was almost certainly a squirrel-planted offspring of the magnificent specimen still standing in Morrisburg in front of Challies' former home on Main Street a few rods west from the Highway 31 junction. It may well be the oldest and largest black walnut in Eastern Ontario.
After medical school and the army came post-graduate training years including time in Cleveland, Ohio. While there my parents came visiting and one day we drove east from the city for a picnic in a hardwood grove. There Dad pocketed a few nuts he found and planted them on returning to Ottawa. Only one, a black walnut, grew. A couple of years later when they were moving house I dug up that young tree (sans half its tap root) and stuck it in the thin, shallow soil of Crystal Bay where we had a cottage lot. Survival seemed doubtful, but after being sheltered under a wooden nail keg for the winter, the little tree showed appreciation by leafing out the next spring - and never looked back, even after another transplantation 35 years ago when we moved to our just-completed home at 50 Lynwood Avenue.
There it flourished despite rock-strewn soil to become the large and shapely specimen that graces our front lawn. It's the pride and joy of that kid who was given a young black walnut 65 years ago and an enduring reminder of a tree-loving Grandpa and a Father.
So let us take and make opportunities to involve children in our nut-tree culture activities. Arbour Day, once a regular springtime event in many schools - and apparently becoming reinstated, suggests itself as one logical occasion for spreading the gospel. At ECSONG's Oak Valley site germination beds and nursery plots are being enlarged to supply not only our needs but additional trees to be distributed through schools or young farmers organizations for planting throughout the region.
Ralph McKendry
Recently, Bob, who is the Chapter's immediate past Chair wrote to Hank Jones, our present Chair who felt that a lot of what Bob said in his letter should be made known to the membership.
Bob writes... "In looking back at the various projects, tours etc. it is my impression that the membership ... will respond with interest, and sometimes surprisingly good turnouts, to (special events involving) knowledgeable speakers, or tours covering their basic interests. Examples of the things I refer to are Fred Von Althen at an annual meeting; Clarence Coons' talk on Tree and Woodlot problems and corrections, with slides of examples, at a winter meeting; the bus tour of hardwood plantations from Kemptville south to the St. Lawrence (Ed note... Bob is referring to the 'Nut Tree Tour of Eastern Ontario' organized and hosted by MNR and OMAF a couple of years ago); and the recent fall tour of the various plantings at Dolman Ridge.
This is not surprising I guess (that members prefer special events), when we remember that our membership is spread over thousands of square miles, and any get-together usually involves many miles of driving. I know that it is a very discouraging experience to put a lot of time and effort into arranging a project, and get a poor turn-out.
I suggest that we keep in close touch with MNR and Agriculture, as they often have events or projects that may be of interest to some members. A listing of upcoming events on any "forestry" related happening might be a useful inclusion for the Nuttery.
There is usually a fair amount of interest in seed. Possibly some arrangement could be made with Doug Campbell or Ernie Grimo through SONG to obtain a bulk shipment of Niagara grown Northern Pecan seed, if membership showed interest.
I strongly support the "Eastern Ontario Model Forest Project" and agree we should be a member."
The Nuttery appreciates the opportunity to print letters or excerpts, as it improves communication of ideas amongst a membership as far flung as ours.
The Cornwall Report by Guy Lefebvre
I've been informed that Henri Bernard of St. Jean Baptiste, Quebec, who recently joined ECSONG, passed away last May following a heart attack. Henri was a great promoter of nut tree culture and could have had an influence on the exchange of information between growers of Eastern Ontario and Southwestern Quebec.
I will be sending a copy of this Nuttery to NNGA members of the Montreal area who could be interested in joining ECSONG and sharing their nut tree experiences.
In spring of 1992 we planted a variety of one year old seedlings on our farm. Although we had an unusually cold summer the heartnut (CW-3) and hazelbert (Gellatly 501) excelled in growth. The Turkish tree hazel hybrids (Gordon), Carpathian Walnut (Hansen) along with Chinese chestnuts (Layeroka) did better than we thought. American chestnut (Watertown) and shellbark hickory (Henry, Fayette), Kingnut hickory (Totten) and Northern Pecan showed little advance which was expected. Hardy Almond had a very vigorous but tender growth which will doubtfully enjoy eastern Ontario winters. All of the above were planted with 30" tubex treeshelters with the exception of Carpathian Walnut which was not recommended. We purchased our stock from R.D. Campbell of Campberry Farm. It was shipped by bus and arrived in good condition. We keep our fingers crossed as they're going through their first winter.
In 1990 Source Wood Products got in touch with Pine Creek Wood Company in West Linn, Oregon, which had purchased American chestnut logs from a nearby farm plantation. The growth was approximately 100+ years old ended by windstorm damage. By the time the Forestry department was informed, all limbs, leaves and seeds were destroyed, making them difficult to identify. The sample Source Wood Products has received for identification sure has the characteristics of chestnut. The story assumed to be believed that settlers brought the seeds across with black walnut in the same plantation. The eastern blight disease never reached the Pacific coast which left these trees intact. These logs yielded 10,000 board feet of lumber; the approximately 2000 bd. ft. which are left are available to us if we can afford the high shipping cost.
A reminder that Source Wood Products has a library available to members and non-members on nut tree culture. Anyone welcome from Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 4:00 at 111 William Street, Cornwall, Ontario.
There is an article in the "Walnut Council Bulletin" 1992 Summer issue called "Direct seeding using tree shelters; establishing walnut and oak plantations", by Larry Severeid of La Crosse, Wisconsin. The methods described could be used for a wide variety of seed planting.
(Ed note... Guy included a photocopy of the article in his letter. For the seed collectors in ECSONG, there is an advertisement in the photocopy placed by F.W. Schumacher Co., 36 Spring Hill Road, Sandwich, MA USA 02563-1023 stating "We purchase nut/seeds of trees and shrubs")
Chestnut Tips and Recipes to try
The following tips for peeling chestnuts and recipes for their use appeared in an article entitled "Nuts about Chestnuts" by Rana Dogar in the December 1992 issue of Self magazine. Thanks to Helen Morgan for bringing the article to our attention...
Tips for Peeling: There are two ways to prepare chestnuts for peeling - boiling and roasting. Boiling is the preferred method if the nuts will be used for a purée. Roasting, which keeps the nuts drier, is better for making stuffing or glace. To boil, either pierce the flat side of the shell and blanch in boiling water for a few minutes or soak the nuts in water overnight to soften the shells (making no incision) and then boil for about 1½ hours. To roast, make an incision around the edge of the nuts, place on a bed of rock salt, and roast at 400 F (200C). Rotate the pan every few minutes until the skins begin to burst open (in about 15 minutes). After boiling or roasting, the nuts should be peeled while the shells are still warm and loose.
Roasted chestnut stew with glazed turnips, fennel and pearl onions
2¼ cups peeled whole chestnuts ½ cup French butter salt and pepper to taste 25 pearl onions, peeled and lightly blanched 20 baby turnips, peeled, washed and blanched 1 large fennel stalk, diced 1 cup whole pecans, shelled 2 cups vegetable or chicken stock herb sachet with parsley stems, bay leaf, fresh thyme and peppercorns fresh Italian parsley
In a sauté pan, lightly and evenly brown the chestnuts in 1½ T. of butter over moderate heat. Season with salt and pepper, remove and keep warm. Cook the pearl onions and then the turnips in a similar manner, using 2 T. of butter for each, and adding in a tablespoon or so of water to prevent burning. Sauté the fennel in 2½ T. of butter, taking care not to burn it; season and set aside. Lightly roast the pecans on a cookie sheet in a 300 F (150C) oven for 2 to 3 minutes. Combine the nuts, vegetables, stock and sachet in a large, heavy sauté pan, cover and bake at 325 F (160C) for about 20 to 30 minutes, until the liquid has all but evaporated and has glazed the ingredients evenly (check the mixture frequently, adjusting temperature and/or removing cover to hasten the process). To serve, put the stew directly on a plate and place pieces of roasted game or meat decoratively around it. Garnish with parsley.
Calories per serving: 442 Fat grams per serving: 19.9
Creamless chestnut bisque with mushroom butter
¼ cup canola oil 5 whole shallots, sliced 1 large red onion, thinly sliced 1 large celery root, diced ¼ tsp. fresh chili pepper, diced 2 T. fresh thyme to taste, minced 1/8 lb. smoked bacon, diced and cooked to render fat 5 lbs. fresh chestnuts, roasted and peeled 7 cups vegetable stock (or water) mushroom butter to taste (recipe follows) 1 tsp. soy sauce salt and pepper to taste
Place the canola oil, shallots, onion, celery roots, chili and thyme in a large soup pot and sweat until soft. Pour the fat off the bacon, then add bacon to the pot. When ingredients are soft, add chestnuts and vegetable stock or water and simmer until the nuts begin to fall apart (about 30 minutes). Cool to room temperature. Run the mixture through a food processor until smooth, then strain it with a fine strainer into a pot. To serve, bring the contents to a simmer, skim any impurities from the soup, and whisk in the mushroom butter and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
Calories per serving: 464 Fat grams per serving: 11.1
mushroom butter
6 large mushrooms, finely sliced 6 oz. French butter ½ cup Noilly Prat or other fine dry vermouth salt and pepper to taste
Sauté the sliced mushrooms in butter until they are lightly caramelized. Deglaze the pan with vermouth and simmer until almost dry. Season with salt and pepper. Cool the mixture and puree in a food processor. The butter can be stored in plastic for up to five days in the refrigerator.
Calories per serving: 138 Fat grams per serving: 13.9
Glazed chestnuts and snow peas with fresh ginger
4 cups whole chestnuts 4 cups chicken stock 1 cup white wine 3 T. butter ½ cup sugar 1 T. lemon juice 2 lb. snow peas, washed and stem end removed 1 cup fresh ginger, cut in fine julienne strips salt and ground pepper
With a sharp knife, make an incision on each chestnut, penetrating the outer shell. Blanch the nuts in boiling water for about 6 minutes. Drain, cool slightly and peel. Bring the chicken stock and white wine to a boil and add the peeled nuts. Simmer slowly for 15 to 20 minutes or until the nuts are tender but still firm. Drain, and reserve the stock for another use. In a frying pan, heat 1 T. of butter. Place the chestnuts in the pan, sprinkle with the sugar, and let them cook until the sugar turns a light caramel colour. Add the lemon juice and keep sauteing until the nuts are evenly covered with sugar glaze. Remove the pan from the flame and keep warm. Meanwhile, blanch the snow peas in boiling salted water for 30 seconds. Drain and submerge them in cold water. When they are cool, drain again and set them aside. In a large skillet, heat 2 T. butter, add the ginger and stir with a wooden spoon for about 3 minutes. Add the snow peas and the glazed chestnuts and stir gently, cooking until hot. Remove the mixture from the skillet, season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.
Calories per serving: 588 Fat grams per serving: 9.0
Necci (chestnut-flour pancakes)
1½ cups Italian chestnut flour 1 cup cold water pinch of salt 1 T. olive oil All-fruit preserves or ricotta cheese
Sift the flour to remove all lumps. Place the flour in a bowl and make a small well in the center. Start adding water little by little, mixing with a wooden spoon. When the water is all used up, add salt and mix again. Be sure that there are no lumps in the batter. Cover and let the batter sit for ¼ hour on bottom shelf of refrigerator. Place a seasoned cast-iron griddle over medium-high heat. When it is hot, brush it with 1 tsp. of oil. Pour ½ cup of batter in the center of the griddle and let it cook for 30 to 40 seconds, until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip and cook for 1 more minute until the pancake is golden brown. Place the prepared necci on a platter, cover with fruit preserves or cheese, and roll it up. Repeat this procedure for as many necci as you need, using 1 tsp. of oil for every 3 pancakes.
Calories per serving: 161 Fat grams per serving: 2.2
If you get to try any of these recipes, let us know your reaction. Better yet, why not bring your creation along to the Winter Meeting? For other recipes to try, see the Chapter's own cookbook "Recipes in a Nutshell".
Thanks for the recipes, Helen!
A welcome contribution from Hugh Schooley
One day in the late fall of '92, Hugh Schooley called to ask if ECSONG would be interested in getting a few bushels of butternuts and black walnuts he had collected in Pansy Patch Park in Pembroke. You may recall this "pretty little park in Pembroke" was featured on an CBC evening news, on Mark Van Dusen's "Valley Portraits" segment. In this segment, members and friends of ECSONG gathered butternuts, black walnuts, etc, explained the benefits of nut trees, showed various nut products and toured the park pointing out how the park is dominated by nut trees.
Hugh, who is editor of the newsletter "Newsbulletin", an organ of the Canadian Tree Improvement Association's Tree See Working Group, had gathered the nuts specially for us (the November '92 issue # 18 mentions ECSONG's work). Needless to say, his offering was gladly accepted! The seed is now in Hank Jones's cold storage awaiting inquiries from interested members.
Hugh also works for Forestry Canada at the Petawawa National Forestry Institute. He says the Institute is very interested in the efforts of ECSONG. He notes that the National Tree Seed Bank is specially interested in our aspirations. The seed bank has a new director who Hugh says may be interested joint seed projects with ECSONG. The director has good international connects for seed exchanges, specially with Russia. Give that our Russian contact in Siberia, Mr. Koshalev, has been incommunicado for several years, maybe we could obtain Siberian species through the seed bank.
Hugh could help us establish connections. His address is H. O. Schooley, PNFI/Forestry Canada, PO Box 2000, Chalk River, Ontario K0J 1J0. His phone is (613) 589-2880 and fax (613) 589-2275.
As the only boy in the family, Harvey spent many hours of his youth with his dog exploring the woods and the fields. He grew to love and to learn a great deal about nature. The trees that grew around his home fascinated him - the white and black poplars and the birch and fur trees that could be found mainly along the North Saskatchewan river bank and the streams that ran into it.
It followed naturally, then, when we came to Ontario that he sought to learn all that he could about many varieties of trees here. This property which we bought in 1952 was a piece of clear farm land and before he had nearly completed building the house, he had planted maples, elms, pines, spruces, butternuts, Chinese walnuts and black walnuts along the north side. The nuts for the latter three he picked up at the Experimental Farm in the Fall. The butternuts and Chinese walnuts grew readily but he found difficulty in getting the black walnuts to germinate.
At that time we had three rose trees which had to be buried in a trench in the Fall. As an experiment one year when the roses were put in the ground he also put in several black walnuts. These were covered with a layer of tar paper, above that a layer of boards rested on the ground and then all was covered with soil to a depth of about eight inches. To his delight when the trench was uncovered in the spring, the black walnuts had sprouted and when planted grew rapidly. He used a similar method to this to start new walnut trees even after we had no more roses.
Within eight to ten years Harvey and the squirrels competed every Fall for the quantities of nuts the trees produced. During the winter nights Harvey cleaned the outer coating off the nuts, then he cracked them and dug out the meat. We had plenty for our own use and quantities to give to friends and neighbours.
In 1982 he planted a row of black walnuts alternating with red maples along the lane on the south side of the property. There are ten walnut trees there which in 1992 produced for the first time with an incredible quantity of nuts.
Some of the walnuts that were planted on the north side of the property 28 years ago are now commercial size.
When Harvey heard about the nut growers' organization and the plans for the conservation area at Kars, he was very interested and took steps to become a member. He was happy to be able to contribute a substantial number of black walnut seedlings to the area. He continued his interest in the organization for as long as he was able before he passed away.
Bernice Noblitt
Dear Mr. Read,
I was delighted to read in last Thursday's Ottawa Citizen ( 5 November, 1992) that a representative of the Society was in Ottawa...
What I (seek is) the Nut Growers Manual, mentioned in the Citizen article.
We have a small (¾ acre) property on the Ottawa River, near Wendover and are trying to plant a number of trees on it of varying types including nut trees - not necessarily for ourselves for we are shortly to retire and expect to live here only for the next 10 to 15 years, but mainly for our descendants or the future occupants of this property.
I would like to know, if you can help, of any nurseries in the area that sell nut trees. The closest I could get for a chestnut tree was just south of Quebec City on the old north shore highway. I have not been able to find walnuts, butternuts, and the like at all.
T.D. Ellison 3637 Old Highway 17 Wendover, Ont. K0A 3K0
(Editor's note... Mr Ellison has received his Manual from Art, and is now a member of ECSONG)
You may have noticed over the last few months news in the local papers about the National Capital Freenet (NCF) -- described as "a free, open-access, community computer system". Alec Jones and Maurice Holloway have provided ECSONG with information on this network and how to join. The literature describes NCF as 'a quick and effective way to share information among people in the community... The heart of Freenet is a central computer network dedicated to storing and retrieving thousands of files of information, and to relaying thousands of electronic messages each day among members and organizations.' And surprise, surprise! it is free. Alec and Maurice suggest ECSONG might want to join. The price is right!
To use Freenet, you need a computer and a modem. ECSONG could soon be accessible through this network. To make it work for us, we need interested members to come forward and undertake to look after ECSONG on Freenet. Interested??? Call Hank Jones at the Nuttery, Ottawa 731-5237. or any member of the executive.
Canadian 1-800 Numbers for U.S. edible nut suppliers
In the most recent edition of the special 1-800 phone book for Canada there is a heading Nuts-Edible. As you know, 1-800 numbers are free. So, we herewith republish all the numbers that appear in the book under this heading. Thought you might find it interesting, and maybe even useful at some time or another.
California Super Naturals, Los Angeles, CA 800-562-8392 Country Estate Pecans, Sahuarita, AZ 800-327-3226 800-533-5269 Germack Pistachio, Detroit, MI 800-872-4006 Indianola Pecan House, Indianola, MS 800-541-6345 Nutridge Farms Inc., Woodland, CA 800-468-8711 Peterson Nut Company, Cleveland, OH 800-255-6887 800-367-6887 Sargent Walnut Ranches, Inc., Modesto, CA 800-541-2908 Skinners Salted Nuts, Ramsey, NJ 800-233-5856 Superior Pecan Co., Eufaula, AL 800-628-2350 The Great San Saba River Pecan Co., San Saba, TX 800-621-8121 Tropical Dreams Macadamia Nut Creations, Kapaau, HI 800-548-8050
More information on Dolman Ridge
This article updates Moe's article on the Dolman Ridge site of the NCC Green Belt published in the Nuttery Volume 11, Number 4, Spetamber 1992. pp 4-6. More information is now available on each of the arboretums in the area.
COMPARTMENT 4-14P
The Anderson Road Arboretum
(at the N.C.C. public parking lot)
Total area = 0.30 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll.Year Seed Source
Black Cherry S.T. 0034 S. 0173-70 CRF 16 km SSE
of Ottawa.
Black Walnut S.T. 0055 S. 0196-70 Borthwick Rg.Rd
NCC, Ottawa
" " S.T. 0093 S. 0384-73 Woodlawn, Ont
Bitternut Hickory S.T. 0031 S. 0169-70 Pointe Cleroux
Rd.Deschenes,Que
" " S.T. 0035 S. 0175-70 25 Bradley St
Stittsville, Ont
Bur Oak S.T. 0065 S. 0245-71 Ottawa West,
Crystal Bay
Cork-Tree (China) - S. 0133-71 P.N.F.I. Chalk
River, Ont
Horse Chestnut S.T. 0088 S. 0309-72 7 Newark Ave.,
Ottawa.
Shagbark Hickory S.T. 0032 S. 0170-70 Pointe Cleroux R
Deschenes, Que
" " S.T. 0032 S. 0247-71 " , "
Sweet Chestnut - S. 0308-70 Morgan Arbore-
tum Montreal Que
White Oak S.T. 0084 S. 0303-72 Quartsite Ridge,
Morton, Ont.
Species Sowing Planting Amount Survivals
Year Year Planted 92
Black Cherry 1971 1976 20 16
Black Walnut (196-71) 1971 1976 4 2
" " (384-74) 1973 1976 6 5
Bit.nut Hic. (169-71) 1971 1976 9 7
" " (175-70) 1971 1976 12 12
Bur Oak 1973 1976 3 2
Horse Chestnut 1974 1976 2 1
Sh.bark Hic. (170-70) 1971 1976 10 10
" " (247-71) 1974 1976 11 10
Sweet Chestnut 1971 1976 11 8
White Oak 1973 1976 2 0
COMPARTMENT 4 -7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 & 16P
The Anderson Road Plantations
(on the escarpment north of the arboretum)
The following is a breakdown of the above 7 Stands.
STAND-7P
Area= 0.15 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Bur Oak S.T. 0027 S. 0165-70 Crystal Bay, W.
of Ottawa.
S. 0197-68 Foresters Falls,
Ont
Sowing Planting Amount Survivals
Year Year Planted 1976 *
(165-70) 1972 - 137 115
(197-68) 1968 1972 138 125
A total of 275 seedlings planted. * Surviving trees by 1976 = 235. 137 acorns (165-70) were sown between the 138 seedlings of (197-68). A fine developing plantation. Much thinning and pruning to be done.
STAND-8P
Area= 0.02 ha
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Red Oak S. 0241-71 The Haven,Lac
Lapeche, Que
Sowing Planting Amount Survivals
Year Year Planted 1976 *
1971 1971 11 8
* No survival count since 1976. Needs pruning.
STAND-9P
Area= 0.10 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Bur Oak S.T. 0065 S. 0245-71 Crystal Bay, W.
of Ottawa.
Sowing Planting Amount Survivals
Year Year Planted 1976 *
1974 1974 204 201
* No survival count since 1976. Trees surviving and developing good.
Needs thinning and pruning.
STAND-10P
Area= 0.22 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Red Oak S.T. 0065 S. 0304-72 Kingsmere,Que
Sowing Planting Amount Survivals
Year Year Planted 1976 *
1973 1974 239 231
* No survival count since 1976. Needs pruning.
STAND-11P
Area= 0.19 ha.
Species Seed tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Red Oak - S. 0424-73 P.N.F.I. Chalk
River, Ont.
Sowing Planting Amount Survivals
Year Year Planted 76 *
1973 1974 262 234
* No survival count since 1976.
STAND-12P
Area= 0.16 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
White Oak S.T. 0084 S. 0303-72 Morton Ont
Sowing Planting Amount Survivals
Year Year Planted 1976 *
1972/73 1974 243 180
* No survival count since 1976.
STAND-16P
Area= 0.05 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Bur Oak S.T. 0027 S. 0165-70 Crystal Bay, W.
of Ottawa.
Sowing Planting Amount Survivals
Year Year Planted 92
1971 1977 34 28
The above oak stands stretches in a narrow strip along the road from the creek to across from the entrance to Dolman Ridge Road.
The red oak stand is doing well, but the grey birch and hybrids between this species and the white birch are very vigorous in the plantation, but the oak was able to outgrow the birch, because it is somehow suitable to the site. The stem form moderate to fair and growing well.
The bur oak is growing very well, because the site is favourable for its development. However, the stands need thinning and prunning of the lower dead branches. Prunning is necessary for all the tree species throughout.
The white oak is, due to too high a watertable and poor drainage, growing very slowly. A lowering of the watertable by ditch drainage should improve the growth. The gray birch and its hybrids are further greatly suppressing the trees
Plastic guards protected the stems from severe meadow vole damage throughout. All the white oaks growing in the various locations originated from a common stand (compare other information on this species below).
COMPARTMENT 2 -6, 7 & 8P Anderson Road Plantations (below the base of the north escarpment)
The plantations in this area runs in a westerly direction along the base of the north escarpment and the creek. The following is a breakdown of the above 3 Stands.
STAND-6P
Area= 0.40 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Bur Oak S.T. 0041 S. 0181-70 Descenes,Pointe
Cleroux, Que.
Sowing Planting Amount Survival
Year Year Planted 1992
1971 1973 454 371
STAND-7P
Area= 0.24 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Red Oak S.T. 0085 S. 0424-72 PNFI, Chalk
River, Ont.
Sowing Planting Amount Survival
Year Year Planted 1992
1973 1974 443 53
A severe mortality
STAND-8P
Area= 0.40 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed source
White Oak S.T.82,83,84 S.301,2,3-72 Morton, Ont.
Sowing Planting Amount Survivals
Fall Year Planted 92
1972 1976 530 28
A severe mortality.
Compartment 2-9P
(on west boundary near the old city dump)
Area= 0.23 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Butternut S.T. 0101 S. 0432-74 Notch Rd. Hull,
Que.
S.T. 0104 S. 0435-74 Royal Ottawa
Golf Club,Que.
S.T. 0121 S. 0476-74 Tatlock, Ont.
Sowing Planting Amount Survival
Year Year Planted 92
(432) 1975 1978 86 -
(435) 1975 1978 201 -
(476) 1975 1978 19 -
Out of a total of 306 planted, 154 survived.
The butternut plantation is located on the top edge of the north-west escarpment. Many seedlings died due to severe weed competition, soil and drainage problems. There might not have been a rodent problem. Most trees have poor stem-form and poor growth.
COMPARTMENT 7-1P
Borthwick Ridge Road Plantation
(on the south escarpment)
Area= 0.28 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Black Walnut S.T. 0100 S. 0431-74 Water Treatment
Plant,Lemieux,
Island, Ottawa.
Sowing Planting Amount Survival
Year Year Planted 92
1975 1978 281 226
COMPARTMENT 8-5P
Dolman Ridge Road Arboretum
This Arboretum can be seen from the road, as an opening in the poplar stand. To get to the site it is necessary to pass through the gate by permission from NCC. The area is closed off by a steel fence for some distance along this road and Anderson Road.
Area= 0.02 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Black Walnut S.T. 0099 S. 0430-74 Rockliffe Park,
Ottawa.
S.T. 0100 S. 0431-74 Water Treatment
Plant,Lemieux
Island, Ottawa.
Sowing Planting Amount Survival
Year Year Planted 92
(430) 1975 1977 21 19
(431) 1975 1977 21 20
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Butternut S.T. 0104 S. 0435-74 Royal Ottawa
Golf Club,Que.
Sowing Planting Amount Survival
Year Year Planted 92
1975 1977 27 23
COMPARTMENT 8-4P
Dolman Ridge Road Arboretum
On the same location, but directly behind the above arboretum are the following species:
Area= 0.10 ha.
Species Seed Tree # Seed Lot # Origin of
Clone Coll. Year Seed Source
Black Cherry S.T. 0034 S. 0173-70 PNFI, Chalk
River, Ont.
Black Walnut S.T. 0099 S. 0430-74 Rockliffe Park
Ottawa.
Bit.nut Hick. S.T. 0036 S. 0176-70 Caribou Av.
Stittsville,On
Butternut S.T. 0104 S. 0435-74 Royal Ottawa
Golf Club,Hull
Cork-Tree (China) - S. 0133-65 PNFI, Chalk
River, Ont.
Horse Chestnut S.T. 0088 S. 0309-72 7 Newark Ave.,
Ottawa.
Kent. Coff.-Tree S.T. 0072 S. 0387-74 Dominion Arboretum,
Ottawa.
Shackbark Hickory S.T. 0032 S. 0170-70 Descenes,Point
Cleroux, Que.
White Oak S.T. 0084 S. 0303-72 Morton, Ont.
Sowing Planting Amount Survival
Year Year Planted 92
Black Cherry (173) 1971 1977 28 28
Black Walnut (430) 1975 1977 19 18
Bit.nut Hick.(176) 1971 1977 2 2
Butternut (435) 1975 1977 15 14
Cork-Tree (133) 1971 1977 8 8
Horse Chestn.(309) 1973 1977 1 1
Kent.Coff.-Tr(387) 1974 1977 8 8
Shagbark Hick(170) 1971 1977 13 13
White Oak (303) 1972/73 1977 1 1
Moe Anderson
North American and International Nut Associations
Canadian Chestnut Council c/o Mr. J. C. Fisher 1332 Suncrest Rd. Kingsville, Ontario Canada N9Y 3H3 A Newsletter Society of Ontario Nut Growers c/o G. Robert Hambleton R.R. #2, 1540 Concession 6 Road Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario Canada L0S 1J0 Occasional newsletter Eastern Chapter, Society of Ontario Nut Growers c/o Hank Jones 94 Cameron Avenue Ottawa, Ontario Canada K1S 0X1 Telephone: (613) 731-5237 Quarterly newsletter. Edible Nut Processors of Canada 1185 Eglinton Ave. E, # 101 Don Mills, Ontario M3C 3C6 Telephone: (416) 429-1004 Fax: (416) 429-1940 Alabama Pecan Growers Association c/o Frederick Boni Route 2, Box 227 Daphne, Alabama USA 36526 Almond Board of California P.O. Box 15920 Sacramento, CA USA 95852 Telephone: (916) 338-2225 Fax: (916) 338-1019
Administers the federal marketing order for almonds regarding the production research, marketing promotion, quality control, and supply allocation of almonds. Monthly newsletter. Periodic research bulletins.
American Chestnut Foundation College of Agriculture and Forestry 401 Brooks Hall, P.O. Box 6057 West Virginia University Morgantown, West Virginia USA 26506-6057 California Almond Growers Exchange P.O. Box 1768 Sacramento, California USA 95808 California Macadamia Society P.O. Box 1290 Fallbrook, CA USA 92028 Telephone: (916) 728-8081
Membership consists of nutgrowers, researchers and nurserymen. Purposes include furnishing authoritative information on macadamia culture; assisting growers with harvesting and marketing data; and providing advice on varieties and propagation. Quarterly newsletter, yearbook and booklets available.
California Pecan Growers Association Extension Service Visalia, California USA 93277 California Pistachio Commission 1915 N. Fine Avenue Fresno, CA USA 93727 Telephone: (209) 252-3345
Purposes include developing domestic and international markets; production and marketing research; improved communication among growers. Publishes annual report and quarterly newsletter.
California Rare Fruit Growers c/o P.H. Thomason Star Route, Box P Bonsall, California USA 92003 Connecticut Nut Growers Association c/o Glenn Law 27 Baldwin Road Manchester, Connecticut USA 06040 Diamond Walnut Growers 1050 S. Diamond Street Stockton, California USA 95201 Telephone: (209) 467-6000 Bi-monthly newsletter Federated Pecan Growers' Associations of the United States c/o Dr. Earl Puls Louisiana State University 157 Miller Baton Rouge, LA USA 70803 Telephone: (504) 388-2222 Federation of 5 state and regional pecan growers' organizations. Florida Pecan Growers Association c/o Tim Crocker G 199 McCarty Hall University of Florida Gainesville, Florida USA 32611 Georgia Pecan Growers Association P.O. Box 1209 Tifton, Georgia 31794 Illinois Nut Tree Growers 1498 Urbandale Drive Florissant, Missouri USA 63031 Indiana Nut Growers Association c/o Mrs. Merna Dicoff R.D. L Zionville, Indiana USA 46077 Iowa Nut Growers Association c/o Robert Markee Steward Road, R.R. 6 Iowa City, Iowa USA 52240 Kansas Nut Growers Association c/o Frank Morrison Kansas State Agricultural College Manhattan, Kansas USA 66506 Kentucky Nut Growers Association 1848 Jennings Drive Madisonville, Kentucky USA 42431 Louisiana Pecan Growers Association c/o W.A. Young LSU Campus P.O. Drawer AX Baton Rouge, Louisiana USA 70803 Michigan Nut Growers Association c/o N.C. Higgins 5550 Church Road, Rt. 1 Perry, Michigan USA 48872 Mississippi Pecan Growers Association c/o Richard Mullenax Extension Service Box 5426 MSU Mississippi State, Mississippi USA 39762 National Pecan Marketing Council 4348 Carter Creek Parkway, Suite 101 Bryan, Texas USA 77802 Telephone (409) 846-1681
Members include commercial pecan growers across the U.S. and others interested in growing pecans. Purposes include increasing demand and consumption of pecans.
Nebraska Nut Growers Association 201 Miller Hall East Campus University of Nebraska Lincoln, Nebrasks USA 68503 New Jersey Nut Growers Association c/o H. Hartmann 58 Van Duyne Avenue Wayne, New Jersey USA 07470 North American Fruit Explorers c/o Robert Kurle 10 S. 55 Madison Street Hinsdale, Illinois USA 60521 Northern Nut Growers Association c/o Tucker Hill,Secretary 654 Beinhower Road Etters, Pennsylvania USA 17319-9774
Members include commercial growers, nurserymen, farmers, horticulture experts, and amateur nut tree growers interested in the propagation and culture of hardy nut-bearing trees. Quarterly newsletter; annual proceedings.
Nut Growers Society of Oregon and Washington c/o Don Duncan 12295 SW Main Street Tigard, Oregon USA 97223 Ohio Nut Growers Association c/o R. Silvis 1807 Lindberg N.E. Massillon, Ohio USA 44646 Oklahoma Pecan Growers Association c/o George Hedger Rt. 1, Noble Foundation Ardmore, Oklahoma USA 73401 Pennsylvania Nut Growers Association c/o A.L. Magee R.R. 2 Duncannon, Pennsylvania USA 17020 Southeastern Pecan Growers Association c/o Mrs. Fred Beshears Box 160 Monticello, Florida USA 32344 Telephone: (904) 997-3458
Purposes include the improvement of methods of fertilization, disease and insect control. Quarterly newsletters, annual proceedings.
Southern Oklahoma Pecan Growers Association c/o Melvin Howard P.O. Box 624 Ringling, Oklahoma USA 73456 Texas Pecan Growers Association c/o J.B. Storey Drawer CC College Station, Texas USA 77840 Walnut Council 5603 Raymond St., Suite O Indianapolis, Indiana USA 46241 Telephone: (317) 244-3312
Purposes include furthering the science, technology, and practice of walnut culture; encourage the exchange of research data, propagational material and nursery stock. Quarterly newsletter.
Walnut Marketing Board 1540 River Park Drive, Suite 101 Sacramento, California USA 94815 Telephone: (916) 922-5888
Members include handlers, shellers, and processors of California English walnuts. Administers marketing order program providing quality control, production research, and promotion and market development.
West Texas Pecan Growers Association c/o Michael Kilby P.O. Box 17709 Ysleta, Texas USA 79917 Western Irrigated Pecan Growers Association P.O. Box 550 Las Cruces, New Mexico USA 88001 Western Missouri Pecan Growers Association c/o Gilbert McDowell Nevada, Missouri USA 64772 Western Pistachio Association 517 C St., N.E. Washington, D.C. USA 20002 Telephone: (202) 543-4455
Members include pistachio nut growers and processors, nurserymen, and others interested in pistachios. Objectives include education and improvement product quality. Quarterly newsletter.
International Nut Council (Consejo Internacional de los Frutos Secos) Boule 8 Reus, Spain Telephone: 977 314700
Members from 33 countries engaged in the trade, production, distribution, and consumption of tree nuts, including almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, pine nuts, pistachios, and pecans. Newsletter published 3 times a year.
Provided by ECSONG. Feel free to copy with a credit.