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Research conducted as part of the NSERC Indistrial Research Chair in Swine Welfare research program has shown management modifications made during the lactation and nursery periods of development result in easier handling and increased average daily gain through the entire life of the pig.How early life management of pigs influences long-term welfare was discussed as part of a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Chair in Swine Welfare Research Forum held last month in conjunction with the Banff Pork Seminar. Siba Khalife, a PhD candidate swine behavior and welfare at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, explains researchers compared the lifetime effects of management modifications during the lactation period, the nursery period and both, including the provision of chewable materials such as burlap and rope, increased space to facilitate play and increased human contact. Quote-Siba Khalife-Western College of Veterinary Medicine: What we have right now is data that is being taken at all different stages of the production cycle following the same pigs so that we can see the development of their behavior and of their growth.This data is tail biting data that we took, we also took data measuring the handleability of the pigs to see if they were any easier to handle. We also took average daily gain data from different parts of the production cycle including birth, farrowing, weaning and then the middle of the grower stage and slaughter.We're wanting to compare this data so that we can see if the growth trajectory of the pigs are any different if they were given those early life management modifications or not. So far what we have is preliminary data.We're still working on analysing everything but we do know that the pigs were easier to handle if they were given the early life modifications in both the lactation and the nursery periods.At the end of nursery, we realised that they were easier to handle and they also had higher average daily gain.

The Swine Health Information Center has issued a call for research proposals targeting priorities identified in its 2024 Plan of Work.The Swine Health Information Center is inviting submissions to address 11 of the 36 research priorities outlined in its 2024 Plan of Work. SHIC Executive Director Dr. Megan Niederwerder says 1.1 million dollars is being made available for the 2024 Plan of Work Research Program priorities with individual project budgets expected to be between 50 thousand and 150 thousand dollars. Quote-Dr. Megan Niederwerder-Swine Health Information Center: There are three primary areas in the request for proposals.One is monitoring and mitigating risks to swine health, the second one is responding to emerging disease and the third one is surveillance and discovery and emerging disease. These proposals are due on March 1st and one of the primary areas within the proposal that we're encouraging researchers to develop is to clearly identify which of the research priorities their proposal addresses.Within those large groups of pillars of strategic priorities, we're looking for proposals specifically on areas such as cull sow market biosecurity and how to we enhance disease surveillance in that population. We're also looking for proposals on engineering biosecurity control through either new site construction or strategic renovation.We're also looking at areas such as improving the diagnostic tools for diseases such as porcine circovirus two, three and four.We're really looking at areas in which we can enhance surveillance and monitoring for emerging swine diseases as well as respond and improve biosecurity in some of these other populations. Dr. Niederwerder says collaborative projects that include the pork industry, allied industries, academic institutions, and/or public/private partnerships are highly encouraged.The complete request for proposals, including a proposal template and a detailed outline of research priorities can be found on SHIC's website at swinehealth.org.

Farms.com Photo Credit: As previously reported on Farms.com, new data from the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) has found that by 2030 there will be more than 100,000 vacant jobs to fill in the agriculture industry. In 2023, CAHRC found a 15 per cent increase in the number of job vacancies compared to 2022. “This is your chance to help the agriculture industry ensure top talent for the future,” says Kathryn Doan, CVO, Director, Talent Solutions Team at AgCareers.com (a Farms.com company). Aimed to provide valuable data to the agricultural industry for attracting and retaining employees, the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) is performing an Agricultural Producers Compensation Survey. AgCareers.com is conducting the survey on behalf of CAHRC. CAHRC invites grain, oilseed, dairy, swine, fish, and apiculture producers to participate in this crucial survey. Topics covered will include: Monetary Benefits: Wages for Farm Managers, Farm Supervisors, Farm Workers, Farm Labourers, and Specialized staff. Non-Monetary Benefits: health, dental, vision, relocation, housing, and more! Hiring and retention tactics of flexible scheduling, bonuses, and vacation and sick time The deadline for participation is March 15, 2024. Producers can find out more and take the survey at this link, or contact compensation@agcareers.com for additional information. Participants will receive a copy of the full results to aid in compensation, recruiting, and retention practices, plus they will be entered into a contest for a chance to win a $250 gift card for Mudeas or Durnin Workwear. About AgCareers.com The AgCareers.com mission is to provide global talent solutions in agriculture and food. They strive to “Feed the World with Talent” in the industries they serve. AgCareers.com’s passion is agriculture, demonstrated through their investment in time and resources that engage candidates and employers in the industry. They work to build the pipeline of talent to the industry by expanding knowledge about the breadth of career opportunities in agriculture. For more information, visit www.AgCareers.com. About CAHRC The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) is a national, non-profit organization focused on addressing human resource issues facing agricultural businesses across Canada. CAHRC works with industry leaders, governments, and educational stakeholders, to research, develop and communicate solutions to the challenges in employment and skills development in primary agriculture. For more information visit www.cahrc-ccrha.ca.

By: Farms.com Canada's agricultural sector is poised for a significant uplift with the announcement of the Youth Employment and Skills Program (YESP). This initiative, backed by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, heralds a new chapter for youth employment in agriculture, demonstrating the government's commitment to nurturing the next generation of agricultural professionals. The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, has unveiled a funding package of approximately $13.5 million designed to facilitate around 1,200 job opportunities for young Canadians within the agriculture sector. This move is a testament to the sector's vibrant future and the pivotal role youth play in its sustainability and growth. YESP offers a compelling incentive for employers, covering 50% of wages up to $14,000. This support extends to 80% for the employment of youth facing barriers, with an additional allowance of up to $5,000 to overcome employment obstacles. The program targets a diverse group of youth, including Indigenous peoples, those with disabilities, racialized youth, newcomers, single parents, and individuals from low-income households, among others. Eligible employers have from February 26, 2024, to March 25, 2024, to submit their applications, with Indigenous employers receiving priority consideration for the 2024-2025 program year. This initiative not only aims to bolster youth employment but also ensures a more inclusive and diverse agricultural workforce. The YESP is a crucial component of the broader Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), a collaborative effort across 12 federal departments and agencies. Since its inception in 2019, the program has successfully employed approximately 5,100 youth in agricultural roles across Canada, including nearly 1,500 youth facing employment barriers. This program underscores the government's resolve to support young Canadians in securing meaningful employment in agriculture, thereby fostering a resilient, sustainable, and dynamic agri-food sector for the future.

The Greenview Agricultural Service Board (ASB) is addressing the challenges of the challenging agricultural landscape by advocating for the prosperity and viability of its farming community through direct action and understanding the complexities of the local agriculture sector. In late 2023, Greenview's ASB made headlines by exploring the potential for an Agricultural Disaster declaration. This move came after a thorough analysis of crop reports and consultations with local farmers, highlighting the year's mixed fortunes with record yields in annual crops but struggles in forages. Ultimately, the decision against recommending a disaster declaration was based on specific criteria not being met, showing the complex balance required in such decisions. The exclusion of Greenview from the 2023 Canada-Alberta Drought Livestock Assistance Program sparked considerable concern. This decision, influenced by a lack of recognition for the unique agricultural landscape of Greenview, prompted the ASB to take action. In early 2024, a letter was sent to the Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, advocating for reconsideration and highlighting the essential need for tailored support mechanisms that acknowledge local conditions. Understanding the power of a collective voice, ASB Council Member Dave Berry emphasized the role of local producers in advocacy efforts. By engaging directly with political representatives, farmers can amplify their needs and challenges, pushing for policies that offer meaningful support and recognition. The ASB's work reflects a deep dedication to not only navigating the present challenges but also paving the way for a thriving future for Greenview's agricultural sector. Through continued advocacy, collaboration, and a keen understanding of the agricultural landscape, the ASB aims to foster a resilient and prosperous farming community. ASB Chair Warren Wohlgemuth stated, "The road ahead may be tough, but with everyone pitching in and working together, we believe our agricultural sector in Greenview can not only weather the challenges but come out even more robust and resilient than before. " This sentiment captures the essence of Greenview's agricultural advocacy efforts, marking a path forward filled with hope, resilience, and a collective commitment to the sector's long-term success.

Farms.com Photo Credit: As previously reported on Farms.com, new data from the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) has found that by 2030 there will be more than 100,000 vacant jobs to fill in the agriculture industry. In 2023, CAHRC found a 15 per cent increase in the number of job vacancies compared to 2022. “This is your chance to help the agriculture industry ensure top talent for the future,” says Kathryn Doan, CVO, Director, Talent Solutions Team at AgCareers.com (a Farms.com company). Aimed to provide valuable data to the agricultural industry for attracting and retaining employees, the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) is performing an Agricultural Producers Compensation Survey. AgCareers.com is conducting the survey on behalf of CAHRC. CAHRC invites grain, oilseed, dairy, swine, fish, and apiculture producers to participate in this crucial survey. Topics covered will include: Monetary Benefits: Wages for Farm Managers, Farm Supervisors, Farm Workers, Farm Labourers, and Specialized staff. Non-Monetary Benefits: health, dental, vision, relocation, housing, and more! Hiring and retention tactics of flexible scheduling, bonuses, and vacation and sick time The deadline for participation is March 15, 2024. Producers can find out more and take the survey at this link, or contact compensation@agcareers.com for additional information. Participants will receive a copy of the full results to aid in compensation, recruiting, and retention practices, plus they will be entered into a contest for a chance to win a $250 gift card for Mudeas or Durnin Workwear. About AgCareers.com The AgCareers.com mission is to provide global talent solutions in agriculture and food. They strive to “Feed the World with Talent” in the industries they serve. AgCareers.com’s passion is agriculture, demonstrated through their investment in time and resources that engage candidates and employers in the industry. They work to build the pipeline of talent to the industry by expanding knowledge about the breadth of career opportunities in agriculture. For more information, visit www.AgCareers.com. About CAHRC The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) is a national, non-profit organization focused on addressing human resource issues facing agricultural businesses across Canada. CAHRC works with industry leaders, governments, and educational stakeholders, to research, develop and communicate solutions to the challenges in employment and skills development in primary agriculture. For more information visit www.cahrc-ccrha.ca.

The Greenview Agricultural Service Board (ASB) is addressing the challenges of the challenging agricultural landscape by advocating for the prosperity and viability of its farming community through direct action and understanding the complexities of the local agriculture sector. In late 2023, Greenview's ASB made headlines by exploring the potential for an Agricultural Disaster declaration. This move came after a thorough analysis of crop reports and consultations with local farmers, highlighting the year's mixed fortunes with record yields in annual crops but struggles in forages. Ultimately, the decision against recommending a disaster declaration was based on specific criteria not being met, showing the complex balance required in such decisions. The exclusion of Greenview from the 2023 Canada-Alberta Drought Livestock Assistance Program sparked considerable concern. This decision, influenced by a lack of recognition for the unique agricultural landscape of Greenview, prompted the ASB to take action. In early 2024, a letter was sent to the Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, advocating for reconsideration and highlighting the essential need for tailored support mechanisms that acknowledge local conditions. Understanding the power of a collective voice, ASB Council Member Dave Berry emphasized the role of local producers in advocacy efforts. By engaging directly with political representatives, farmers can amplify their needs and challenges, pushing for policies that offer meaningful support and recognition. The ASB's work reflects a deep dedication to not only navigating the present challenges but also paving the way for a thriving future for Greenview's agricultural sector. Through continued advocacy, collaboration, and a keen understanding of the agricultural landscape, the ASB aims to foster a resilient and prosperous farming community. ASB Chair Warren Wohlgemuth stated, "The road ahead may be tough, but with everyone pitching in and working together, we believe our agricultural sector in Greenview can not only weather the challenges but come out even more robust and resilient than before. " This sentiment captures the essence of Greenview's agricultural advocacy efforts, marking a path forward filled with hope, resilience, and a collective commitment to the sector's long-term success.

By farms.com The carbon tax is unfair to farmers, and to other small businesses as well. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) has strongly criticized the federal government's recent announcement to decrease the carbon tax rebate percentage for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from 9% to 5%, starting in 2024. This decision contrasts sharply with the increase in rebates for consumers and Indigenous governments to 93% and 2%, respectively, leaving SMEs disproportionately affected. Dan Kelly, president of CFIB, criticized the timing of the rebate reduction ahead of a major carbon tax increase on April 1. He noted that small businesses would lose about $500 million in rebates, a 44% cut in their future allocations. Kelly pointed out that this reduction was to finance increases in rural rebates and support for Indigenous governments, effectively funding these areas at the expense of small businesses. Kelly highlighted the absence of a system to distribute over $2.5 billion in carbon tax rebates collected since 2019 to SMEs, emphasizing the unfairness as small businesses carry a disproportionate share of the tax burden. Despite consumers receiving more rebates, SMEs, which contribute 40% of carbon tax revenue, face reduced rebates and delayed payments, marking the situation as particularly unjust. The CFIB's unhappiness extends to the government's approach to rebate eligibility, which is currently limited to emissions-intensive, trade-exposed businesses. This narrow definition excludes many small businesses that also pay the carbon tax, further worsening the issue. The CFIB demands the government to: Immediately return the $2.5 billion owed in carbon tax rebates to SMEs.

Farms.com Photo Credit: As previously reported on Farms.com, new data from the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) has found that by 2030 there will be more than 100,000 vacant jobs to fill in the agriculture industry. In 2023, CAHRC found a 15 per cent increase in the number of job vacancies compared to 2022. “This is your chance to help the agriculture industry ensure top talent for the future,” says Kathryn Doan, CVO, Director, Talent Solutions Team at AgCareers.com (a Farms.com company). Aimed to provide valuable data to the agricultural industry for attracting and retaining employees, the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) is performing an Agricultural Producers Compensation Survey. AgCareers.com is conducting the survey on behalf of CAHRC. CAHRC invites grain, oilseed, dairy, swine, fish, and apiculture producers to participate in this crucial survey. Topics covered will include: Monetary Benefits: Wages for Farm Managers, Farm Supervisors, Farm Workers, Farm Labourers, and Specialized staff. Non-Monetary Benefits: health, dental, vision, relocation, housing, and more! Hiring and retention tactics of flexible scheduling, bonuses, and vacation and sick time The deadline for participation is March 15, 2024. Producers can find out more and take the survey at this link, or contact compensation@agcareers.com for additional information. Participants will receive a copy of the full results to aid in compensation, recruiting, and retention practices, plus they will be entered into a contest for a chance to win a $250 gift card for Mudeas or Durnin Workwear. About AgCareers.com The AgCareers.com mission is to provide global talent solutions in agriculture and food. They strive to “Feed the World with Talent” in the industries they serve. AgCareers.com’s passion is agriculture, demonstrated through their investment in time and resources that engage candidates and employers in the industry. They work to build the pipeline of talent to the industry by expanding knowledge about the breadth of career opportunities in agriculture. For more information, visit www.AgCareers.com. About CAHRC The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) is a national, non-profit organization focused on addressing human resource issues facing agricultural businesses across Canada. CAHRC works with industry leaders, governments, and educational stakeholders, to research, develop and communicate solutions to the challenges in employment and skills development in primary agriculture. For more information visit www.cahrc-ccrha.ca.

We know, you already have a few shovels on the farm. Even though shovels are a common tool, a shovel is a crucial tool, whether you are planting, removing weeds, creating irrigation channels, rock picking, or digging holes, the shovel is always needed one way or another. The versatility in the Root Slayer shovel by Radius is key to its success. As every farmer knows, tree roots often get in the way of digging. “If you’ve ever hit roots while trying to plant a perennial or you have been stymied by roots when trying to dig up a shrub, or tried to divide hostas with a spade only to have them slide away from your shovel, you’ll know what we’re talking about.” says Stealth Digger on their video review. Eliminating the need for hatchets, pry-bars, and saws while digging up around the farm, the Root Slayer, a multi-purpose shovel allows farmers to get the job done efficiently in one simple tool. We’ve all been there, digging on the farm and all of the sudden the shovel gets caught on roots while trying to dig up a shrub, and the shovel just can’t break a part those roots. With the Root Slayer, breaking up roots is no problem with a 13” tempered mid-carbon steel blade. The Root Slayer has won awards along with being certified and tested by Intertek, resulting in being 150%+ stronger than its competitors. Think of it this way, adding a multi-purpose shovel to the pile like the Root Slayer is essentially doing the gator a favor, by removing some tools in replacement for one multi-purpose shovel.

Members of an Alberta community came together in support of its local grain elevator. The people of Nanton, Alta. and the surroinding communities drew the winning ticket of a 50/50 raffle on Valentine’s Day, with half of the winnings, $4,910 to be exact, donated to the Canadian Grain Elevator Discovery Centre. The community purchased 6,382 tickets for the raffle. This money is being used to recoup costs from a theft that occurred after Christmas. On Dec. 29, thieves stole one 30-metre 240vac cable and nine 15-metre power cables. These cables were rented or loaned to the discovery centre, CTV reported. These cables supply power to lights used for special displays throughout the year. The winning ticket went to a familiar face in the community. Jen Handley, the mayor of Nanton, won the raffle, the discovery centre’s website says.

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash The Migrant Community Worker Program will be holding its annual this Sunday, February 25, 2024, in Leamington, Ontario. The primary goal is to bring together diverse organizations and companies in Windsor-Essex County to collectively share vital information and resources that meet the needs of local migrant workers, and conversely, to bring together migrant workers to the services and support available to them and ensure they have barrier-free access to any other resources they would need. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by the migrant population, the mission of the Migrant Community Worker Program is to create a collaborative platform that promotes a supportive and informed environment. The one-day event will provide free services, such as general information, legal assistance, and much more. Date: Sunday, February 25, 2024; Time: 3–6 PM; Location: Portuguese Club, 217 Talbot Street West, Leamington, Ontario. The Migrant Worker Community Program (MWCP) seeks to build a stronger community support system for the approximately 20,000 migrant workers who come each year to live and work on Windsor-Essex County farms. The MWCP mission provides information and support to migrant workers by helping them gain educational, social, cultural, and recreational opportunities, while also helping them navigate available support services such as health and wellness, legal aid, and travel and immigration support in Spanish, English, and Tagalog. Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada, is a project under the Migrant Worker Support Program (MWSP), providing migrant workers with accurate information and access to available services and support, and assisting them in learning about and exercising their rights while in Canada. To learn about the MWCP, visit www.migrantworkercommunityprogram.com. To learn more about the TeaMWork Project, visit www.TeaMWorkProject.ca.

By Jean-Paul McDonald Canada's agricultural sector has taken a significant step forward with the opening of the Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office (IPAAO) in Manila, Philippines. The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced the launch during his trade mission, marking a pivotal moment for Canada's engagement with the Indo-Pacific markets, including Malaysia and the Philippines. Minister MacAulay expressed enthusiasm about the office's potential, stating, "I'm so pleased to be in Manila to open Canada's first-ever Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office. We export nearly half of what we produce in Canada and the global demand continues to grow. I have no doubt this office will play a central role in growing export markets for our world-class Canadian farmers and increasing collaboration and cooperation in this important region. " The IPAAO introduces a novel approach to regional collaboration, with a mobile team based in Manila poised to foster strategic partnerships that promise to expand export opportunities for Canadian products. By combining Canada's renowned expertise in food safety and sustainability with the rich potential of the Indo-Pacific region, the office aims to address common challenges and spur growth in agriculture and agri-food exports. The IPAAO team is working on the ground, advancing mutual priorities like food security and enhancing technical cooperation, market access, and trade with partners across the region. This initiative is not just about expanding markets but also about reinforcing Canada's commitment to its Indo-Pacific partnerships and the broader strategy of economic engagement in the region. In 2023, Canada's agriculture and agri-food exports to the Indo-Pacific amounted to $22.8 billion, signifying the region's importance to Canada's economy and the global agricultural landscape. The IPAAO is poised to play a crucial role in furthering these economic ties and ensuring continued growth and collaboration. Dave Carey, Vice-President of the CCGA highlighted the importance of trade for Canada's canola farmers, with 90% of canola exported. He stated that the new IPAAO demonstrates Canada's commitment to enhancing market access in the Indo-Pacific, crucial for diversifying export markets and building enduring partnerships. Industry leader Kevin Auch of Pulse Canada stated "The Indo-Pacific provides a unique opportunity for growth and diversification for Canadian pulses. This office demonstrates the Government of Canada's support for our sector proactively brea

By Jean-Paul McDonald In a move to secure Canada's standing as a leader in the global pork market, the government has announced a substantial investment aimed at advancing the pork industry into the future. This strategic infusion of funds, totalling up to $10.6 million, is earmarked for Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) under the AgriScience Program’s Clusters Component of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, representing the government, highlighted the initiative's focus on research that will bolster the sector's sustainability, resilience, and growth. The funding will support a range of critical areas, including environmental performance, greenhouse gas reduction, productivity enhancements, disease management, and the fight against antimicrobial resistance. This initiative not only aims to improve the pork sector's environmental footprint but also to enhance product quality and animal welfare standards. Past Swine Clusters have significantly improved feeding strategies, reduced antibiotic usage, and enhanced pork quality, demonstrating the program's potential to foster innovation and maintain Canada's high-quality pork product reputation. Complementing the Swine Cluster's funding, an additional $1 million from the Greening Government Fund (GGF) will be invested in updating the Sherbrooke Research and Development Centre's facilities. This includes installing high-efficiency heat recovery fans and transitioning the Normandin Research Farm to a more sustainable pellet biomass heating system, further underscoring the commitment to reducing the agricultural sector's carbon footprint. The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, emphasized the importance of this funding, stating, "With this funding, we're making sure our pork producers have the tools they need to continue to be leaders in the agriculture sector. This will create opportunities for innovation so we can meet the growing global demand for our world-renowned Canadian pork." This investment reflects Canada's proactive approach to meeting the challenges of modern agriculture, ensuring the pork industry remains competitive and sustainable for years to come.

Members of an Alberta community came together in support of its local grain elevator. The people of Nanton, Alta. and the surroinding communities drew the winning ticket of a 50/50 raffle on Valentine’s Day, with half of the winnings, $4,910 to be exact, donated to the Canadian Grain Elevator Discovery Centre. The community purchased 6,382 tickets for the raffle. This money is being used to recoup costs from a theft that occurred after Christmas. On Dec. 29, thieves stole one 30-metre 240vac cable and nine 15-metre power cables. These cables were rented or loaned to the discovery centre, CTV reported. These cables supply power to lights used for special displays throughout the year. The winning ticket went to a familiar face in the community. Jen Handley, the mayor of Nanton, won the raffle, the discovery centre’s website says.

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash The Migrant Community Worker Program will be holding its annual this Sunday, February 25, 2024, in Leamington, Ontario. The primary goal is to bring together diverse organizations and companies in Windsor-Essex County to collectively share vital information and resources that meet the needs of local migrant workers, and conversely, to bring together migrant workers to the services and support available to them and ensure they have barrier-free access to any other resources they would need. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by the migrant population, the mission of the Migrant Community Worker Program is to create a collaborative platform that promotes a supportive and informed environment. The one-day event will provide free services, such as general information, legal assistance, and much more. Date: Sunday, February 25, 2024; Time: 3–6 PM; Location: Portuguese Club, 217 Talbot Street West, Leamington, Ontario. The Migrant Worker Community Program (MWCP) seeks to build a stronger community support system for the approximately 20,000 migrant workers who come each year to live and work on Windsor-Essex County farms. The MWCP mission provides information and support to migrant workers by helping them gain educational, social, cultural, and recreational opportunities, while also helping them navigate available support services such as health and wellness, legal aid, and travel and immigration support in Spanish, English, and Tagalog. Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada, is a project under the Migrant Worker Support Program (MWSP), providing migrant workers with accurate information and access to available services and support, and assisting them in learning about and exercising their rights while in Canada. To learn about the MWCP, visit www.migrantworkercommunityprogram.com. To learn more about the TeaMWork Project, visit www.TeaMWorkProject.ca.

Canada officially opened its Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office (IPAAO). Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay and other ag representatives attended an opening ceremony in Manila, Philippines on Feb. 21. “The office will open doors for Canadian producers right across the Indo-Pacific, and help us create connections, share our expertise, and make our regional partnerships even stronger,” MacAulay said in an X post. The Liberal government announced in November 2022 it was investing almost $32 million over five years to establish the IPAAO. “This initiative will increase and diversify Canada’s agriculture and agri-food exports to the Indo-Pacific by establishing our first agriculture office in the region,” a government statement said at the time. This new office will position Canada as a preferred agriculture and agri-food supplier to the region, strengthening trade on both sides of the Pacific. The Indo-Pacific region accounts for more than 1/3 of the world’s economic activity. And in 2023, Canada exported almost $23 billion of ag products to this part of the world.

Canada’s pork sector has joined a movement opposing Britain’s involvement into a trade deal. The Canadian Pork Council (CPC) recently announced its participation in the “Say No to a Bad Deal” coalition, which is against Britain’s ascension into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). “Fair trade is not a buzzword; it is the cornerstone of sustainable economic growth and prosperity. For Canadian farmers, particularly pork producers, fair trade means access to global markets under mutually beneficial terms,” Rene Roy, chair of the CPC, said in a statement. “It guarantees that our products can compete fairly, fostering growth and stability in our industry and for the country.” Members of the livestock sector including the Canadian Cattle Association, Canadian Meat Council and National Cattle Feeders’ Association, launched the campaign in September 2023 to raise awareness about how Canadian producers are being treated unfairly. The main hurdle is Britain’s refusal to accept some Canadian production practices. These include the use of growth hormones and the use of antimicrobial livestock carcass washes in processing facilities. And Britain appears steadfast in its approach.

Chart via BonusFinder Canada Would you believe us if we said that the ag industry has the fifth highest incidence of liars, according to an industry survey? It’s no lie, although we should state that the numbers involving the ag industry are also lumped in with forestry, fishing, and hunting. We’re not talking about the camper who claimed to have seen Bigfoot rummaging through the garbage cans behind the local A&W Restaurant in Nelson, BC. Neither are we talking about regular folk talking about how they hunted and shot a 24-point buck when it was their pick-up truck that did the killing. And neither are we talking about the fisherman who claimed to have caught a fish “this big.” No, this one is about industry personnel who sometimes offer up a little white lie to the whopper, to the full-on baldfaced lie with regards to their salary. According to BonusFinder Canada—a Canadian online gambling business that has no affiliation with Farms.com—the average person lies four times a day. Sure, it could be to promote oneself, perhaps to protect someone’s feelings, or maybe to just not have to answer a telephone spammer’s questions. The gambling site asked some 3,000 Canadians for their take on lying. By the way, for all sectors, Canadians were more likely to lie or avoid discussing salary. Here are some of the highlights: According to the survey, the hospitality industry lies the most about their salary, at 66.3 percent. 6.0 percent of Canadians have lied about their salary. 37.7 percent have said their salary is lower than it is, and only 28.0 percent have inflated their salary. Folks from Ottawa lie the most about their salary, at 63.4 percent - more on that below, because it's not necessarily all a bad thing. People said that negotiating leverage is the most common reason for inflating salaries, according to 37.8 percent of the respondents. 28.4 percent said that they deflated their salary to others to avoid jealousy or resentment in the workplace. Interesting. The best way to avoid lying about salary is to not have such discussions. If a person chooses to reveal their salary, that’s one thing, but asking others seems... wrong. Unless that’s something Gen Z and the Millennials seem more comfortable with. Other reasons why people said they inflated their salary included: social status and image; family and social expectations; business or networking reasons; comparisons with peers (and the need to fit in); fear of judgement or discrimination; and insecurities (feelings of inadequacy). Yes, Ottawa had the most people lie about their salary (63.4 percent), but to be fair, of the Top 10 cities, Ottawa’s population was more likely to state that their salary was lower than it was (40.6 percent), but the second-most likely to inflate their salary (33 percent). The next biggest liar about salary—again, based on a total of 3,000 people surveyed—was Saskatoon (60.4 percent), with 37.6 percent lying low

By Farms.com Alberta's Open Farm Days, an event that bridges the gap between farmers and consumers, marked another year of impressive growth and community engagement in 2023. According to Tim Carson, CEO of the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies, the event attracted fewer visitors than the previous year but saw a significant increase in on-farm sales, jumping from $224,000 in 2022 to almost $299,000. This not only reflects a growing consumer trust in Alberta's agriculture but also a deeper appreciation for it. The event boasted an expansion in both the number of culinary experiences offered and the diversity of host farms, with about 35% of the 133 participating farms being new entrants. Despite challenges such as flooding and wildfires, the event was on the verge of surpassing its goal of 150 host farms. Efforts to enhance the event included the provision of 10 training sessions aimed at assisting farms with early planning and permitting acquisition. In addition to the host farms, 10 agricultural societies across Alberta participated, underscoring their crucial role in community support and local food promotion. Feedback from the host farms underscored the importance of direct engagement with consumers, offering insights into farming practices and the significance of agriculture in Alberta. With Open Farm Days generating over $1.4 million in on-farm sales since its inception, the event continues to be a vital platform for promoting Alberta agriculture. Looking forward to 2024, registration is already open, with anticipation for another successful year of showcasing the province's agriculture and food sectors. Mark your calendars for August 17 and 18 for the 12th annual Alberta Open Farm Days, a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of Alberta's agricultural community