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Strip-Till Award nominations are open

January 3, 2024 - 9:01am
Image via Strip-Till Farmer With the new year comes new nominations, and you can help recognize a strip-tiller for their hard work. and Montag Manufacturing are seeking 2024 nominations from farmers, equipment and input dealers, manufacturers, and other agribusinesses to honor outstanding leaders of the conservation-tillage industry. The awards are open to individual growers in the US and Canada who have made a significant contribution to the advancement of strip-till farming, regardless of crops grown or brand of equipment, seed, or crop protection products used. The deadline for nominations is Wednesday, January 31, 2024. The award winner will be recognized at the 11th annual , to be held August 8–9, 2024, in Madison, Wisconsin. To nominate someone, click HERE.

5 bold swine predictions for 2024

January 2, 2024 - 5:50am
Image via: Heavily Meditated Life/iStcok/Getty Images Plus photo is now in full effect, as of January 1, 2024. As of September 1, 2022, California’s new animal health and welfare regulation, (), was ushered in. The state law, with US national and international implications, prohibits the strict confinement of breeding pigs. Since California itself has almost zero pig breeding operations within its stately borders, means that the state will not allow any pig or pig product into California where the animal was not confined in housing acceptable to the state. There are some exceptions, but only for sows: when being transported, used in research, individually treated, immediately before slaughter, five days before the expected farrowing date, and when nursing piglets. To comply, pig farmers will need to provide more space for their herds. While some have the space, financial resources, and capacity to do that, many farms either do not have the capital or have yet to complete the construction of acceptable swine habitats. Things have to be government-approved, after all, and that takes time. Five predictions for 2024? Prediction 1: The cost of compliance for US pig farmers looking to sell their pigs and/or hog products in California is high, meaning that the US national pig herd will shrink. Prediction 2: It will also mean that the Canadian swine market has one fewer customer unless Canadian farms become compliant. To be fair, many US and Canadian swine farms have become compliant. But have enough? Which leads us to... Prediction 3: California consumers are going to have a pork shortage and higher overall costs to purchase pork products until more swine businesses become compliant. Now, was not aimed solely at pork producers. Its animal welfare statement referenced that meat (all types of meat) and eggs could not be sold in California unless they came from animals raised in compliance with the state’s new welfare regulations. Egg and veal producers quickly fell in line with , but pork producers around the US rebelled, challenging the constitutionality of a state (California) being allowed to dictate how other states (the other 49) went about their business. But, the court case was lost, and became a law for how California wants to do business with the rest of the states, Canada, and the world. instructs that every breeding sow have at least 24 square feet of space and have enough space to turn around, extend its limbs, etc. While pork farmers have compassion for animal welfare, the cost of doing business the California way is high financially. It was especially galling for the swine farmers, as California consumers rely upon 99 percent (or more) of its pork products from outside the state. Hog industry estimate

Linamar acquires Saskatchewan seed expert company

December 21, 2023 - 4:34am
Photo via Bourgault Industries Ltd. Linamar Corporation, a Guelph, Ontario-headquartered manufacturing company, has agreed to purchase the St. Brieux, Saskatchewan-based Bourgault Industries Ltd. The acquisition includes Bourgault's Highline Manufacturing division, which produces hay handling and livestock feeding equipment, as well as roto-moulding producer Free Form Plastics. Bourgault is a world-class agriculture equipment manufacturer regarded as a market and technology leader in broad-acre seeding. This acquisition will increase Linamar’s diverse industrial segment while advancing its position as a leading short-line agriculture equipment manufacturer. The Linamar company owns many well-known agricultural brands, including the harvesting specialist MacDon and the tillage and crop nutrition expert Salford. The Bourgault acquisition will provide Linamar with the capability to increase its market position as it now possesses a full lineup of products in the broader crop production cycle, from field preparation to seeding, crop nutrition, harvest, and post-harvest. Linda Hasenfratz, the Executive Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Linamar, stated, 'We are thrilled to welcome Bourgault Industries into the Linamar family. Bourgault is another Canadian manufacturing success story that draws many similarities to Linamar's history of entrepreneurism and technical innovation. The Bourgault name is synonymous with broad-acre agricultural seeding innovation and offers a tremendous opportunity for Linamar to further diversify and grow our agriculture platform as well as our industrial segment overall.' She added: “It also further enhances our powerful synergistic diversification strategy, whereby our industrial businesses benefit from purchasing leverage, global footprint, and access to industry-leading lean manufacturing expertise from our mobility businesses, while our mobility businesses benefit from the strong cash generation and brand expertise of our industrial businesses. Together, our business model provides an excellent formula for consistent, sustainable growth with strong margins and excellent balance sheet strength.' The transaction, representing the purchase of 100 percent of the equity interest of Bourgault, is for CDN $640 million, subject to customary adjustments. Bourgault will become part of a new Linamar Agriculture division within the broader industrial segment. This new segment will include Skyjack, a manufacturer of aerial work platforms. The Agriculture group will continue to operate the shortline brands of MacDon, Salford, and Bourgault independently while maximizing overall growth opportunities globally, better enabling future agriculture technologies, improving the overall farm customer experience, and enhancing product support. Jim Jarrell, the President and Chief Operating Officer of Linamar, added that Bourgault is the company’s third acquisition of 2023, following two previous transactions within the mobility sector earlier this year. “This work is the result of a well-defined strategy to grow our business with diversifie

Community support soars after tragic farm incident in Ontario

December 15, 2023 - 5:56am
In a heartfelt display of community solidarity, residents of a rural area have come together following a heartbreaking incident on a local farm. The community's response came swiftly after a farming accident claimed the life of local farmer James Andrew Keith Bailey, leaving behind his young family. The incident, which occurred earlier this week, prompted a fundraising campaign. Demonstrating overwhelming support, the campaign rapidly surpassed $57,000 in donations, with a goal of $60,000. This remarkable effort reflects the community's deep connection and commitment to supporting one of their own during such a devastating time. The farmer, a devoted family man, was well-known and respected in the area, having been deeply involved in farming and agricultural education. His dedication to the land and his livestock was evident, and he was a prominent figure in the local 4-H community. His love for farming and his animals, particularly cattle, was a significant part of his identity and contribution to the community. The family farm, a cornerstone of the local agricultural scene, has been a family heritage for generations. It is known for its beef cattle and sheep, and the family's involvement in farming was a true family affair, spanning several generations. In addition to their farming activities, the family was passionate about educating others about farming life. They frequently shared insights into their daily life and work on the farm, providing a window into the realities of rural living and agriculture. The funds raised through the community's efforts will assist the family in dealing with unexpected expenses and provide some financial stability during this challenging period. It's a testament to the strength and compassion of the rural community, showing how in times of tragedy, neighbors and friends come together to support and uplift each other. This incident has not only highlighted the inherent risks associated with farming but also the strong bonds that form in rural communities. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of community support and the resilience of those who work the land. Click here to make a donation for James Andrew Keith Bailey on GoFundMe.

Did you know your poinsettia could be local?

December 13, 2023 - 8:17am
By Denise Faguy Farms.com Photo Credit: Pexels David Levinson Nestled in the heart of Clarington, Ontario,Rekker’s Garden Centre has become a hub for poinsettia cultivation, playing a pivotal role in bringing the festive spirit to homes across Ontario. Annually, this local greenhouse cultivates an impressive 150,000 poinsettias, which find their way to major retailers such as Costco and Canadian Tire, as well as local fundraisers. Owned by Gerard Prins, Rekker’s Garden Centre has been nurturing poinsettias for over 55 years. These plants, synonymous with the holiday season, are a staple crop for the greenhouse. The centre focuses on red, white, and pink varieties, with red poinsettias comprising 85% of their production. Understanding the seasonal nature of poinsettia demand, Rekker’s strategically manages its production, they could produce more plants, but they don't want to over-grow, highlighting the importance of aligning supply with the peak holiday demand. The plants require specific light and darkness conditions to flourish, with shorter days in September triggering their vibrant colors. Rekker's operates two locations.The sight of these bright red and green plants against the white walls of the greenhouse is a hallmark of the holiday season. Large retailers like Costco and Canadian Tire pre-book their orders, ensuring they have ample supply for the holiday rush. By mid-November, these poinsettias are in peak color and ready for distribution. For efficient delivery, Rekker’s uses large rolling racks and boxes, depending on the customer. This business is more than just cultivation; it's about keeping a tradition alive. The operation employs 25 people wholesale, with additional staff for packing and trucking. After the Christmas rush, the greenhouse staff enjoy a well-deserved break before gearing up for spring planting.

Canadian farm gender pay gap still wide but narrowing

December 12, 2023 - 3:47am
By Denise Faguy Farms.com. The gender pay gap among farm operators has been steadily decreasing over the past two decades. It still needs a long way to go, but at least it is headed in the right direction. A recent Agriculture–Population Linkage study from Statistics Canada, which combines data from the Census of Agriculture and the Census of Population, highlights the trend. In 2020, the gap was nearly equal to the national average for all Canadians aged 16 and over. This shrinking gap is notable in an industry where women’s earnings were traditionally much lower compared to men’s. The formula used to calculate this gap considers wages, salaries, and commissions, excluding farm operators who do not receive such payments. It’s important to note that the study didn’t account for unpaid activities like child rearing, which could affect annual earnings. By 2020, the gap had reduced, with women farm operators earning 28.4% less on average than their male counterparts, an improvement from the 35.2% gap in 2000. This trend mirrors the decrease in the overall Canadian gender pay gap. The study also reveals that the gap is smaller among farm operators who work exclusively on the farm (20.4%), compared to those who work both on and off the farm (32.1%). Geographical variations are evident too, with the smallest gap in the Atlantic provinces (12.9%) and the largest in British Columbia (37.7%). Different farm types also show varying gaps, with the smallest gap in dairy cattle and milk farms (5.7%), and the largest in greenhouse, nursery, and floriculture farms (38.3%). Similarly, revenue class plays a role, with smaller gaps in higher revenue farms. Education level impacts the gap too, with the smallest gap among those holding a university certificate or diploma below bachelor level. Interestingly, over one-quarter of women farm operators held a bachelor's level credential or above, higher than their male counterparts. Field of study is another factor, with the smallest gap among those in agriculture-related fields. Surprisingly, women in business-related programs faced a larger gap. Additionally, the gap varies among different racial groups, being smaller among racialized farm operators (20.2%) compared to Indigenous operators (38.8%). Lastly, the gap is smaller in rural areas compared to population centres, although overall earnings are higher in the latter. This study's findings are a positive indication of the narrowing gender pay gap in Canadian agriculture, reflecting ongoing efforts towards achieving wage equality in the sector. But we still have a long way to go.

BFO ANIMAL CARE VALUES STATEMENT

December 8, 2023 - 9:25am
Animal welfare is of the utmost importance to Beef Farmers of Ontario (BFO) and its members. When concerns involving animal care are identified in Ontario’s beef sector, BFO acknowledges its responsibility to consider and offer its perspective to members, the broader agriculture industry and the general public. BFO is respectful of the leadership roles of the government agencies charged with monitoring animal care in Ontario. BFO supports the National Farm Animal Care Council’s Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Beef Cattle as the minimum acceptable standard of animal care for beef cattle in Ontario. BFO expects all members to take responsibility in their role as beef farmers for the welfare of their animals and for the reputation and positioning of the Ontario beef sector as proactive and principled when it comes to animal care. BFO does not support farmers who do not fulfill this responsibility to their animals and the public. ONTARIO BEEF HELPLINE SERVICE The Ontario Beef Helpline is a confidential “farmer helping farmer” approach administered together by the Beef Farmers of Ontario (BFO) and Farm & Food Care Ontario. It provides a confidential way for people to report situations of beef animals that they feel require better care. BFO has trained Animal Care Advisors (ACA) covering all areas of the province, who respond to these situations by meeting with each farmer to discuss animal care issues and offer practical advice or necessary assistance to correct the situation if there is a problem. The ACA then reports back details from his/her visit to BFO and Farm & Food Care who, in turn, will relay this information back to the caller if they are interested. Helpline calls are accepted at the Farm & Food Care office at 519-837-1326, during regular office hours, typically Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Callers are asked to provide specific and detailed information necessary to pursue the case. The information about the case, but not the name of the caller, is then passed on to the Beef Farmers of Ontario for follow-up and/or visit. Anyone who is having difficulties meeting acceptable levels of care and management for their farm animals and anyone else who witnesses situations where animals are not being properly cared for are encouraged to use this service.