News aggregator

4-H Canada’s 2023 national award recipients

Better Farming Prairies - February 6, 2024 - 7:39am
; Photo courtesy of 4-H Canada 4-H Canada is proud to announce the recipients of three prestigious national awards: ; (s); and . 4-H provides youth with the guidance, resources, and opportunities to become contributing members of their community, their country, and the world by preparing them for the various paths of life and encouraging them to find their sense of self, purpose, and responsibility. Each year, the recognize the extraordinary contributions of supporters, volunteers, and alumni who embody the mission of 4-H and make an impact on youth and the communities they serve. Distinguished Alumni Award The is presented to honour the outstanding leadership and contributions of 4-H alumni to their communities, country, and world. This year’s winner is Jon Montgomery of Calgary, Alberta. That’s him in the photo above. You probably recognize him from at least one of three Canadian things. He is the TV host of The Amazing Race Canada, and he is an Olympic gold medal winner in the most dangerous winter sport—the skeleton, where you go headfirst down a curving downhill course atop a sled. He is one of this writer’s favourite athletes. He won his gold medal at the held in Vancouver, British Columbia. And if one thinks he can’t top all that, Montgomery is a proud second-generation 4-H’er! His involvement in the 4-H movement began in his hometown of Russell, Manitoba, where he was a youth member of the Russell 4-H Beef Club for four years. A proud alum, Montgomery has continued to live and breathe 4-H values throughout his career as an elite athlete, philanthropist, and national TV host. He embodies leadership skills, pride in his rural roots, drive to achieve world-class goals, and a ‘can-do’ attitude that parallels 4-H Canada’s ‘Learn To Do By Doing’ motto. Along with being an Olympic gold medallist, these 4-H values have taken him far, including taking on the mantle of host of in 2013 and remaining in that position today. A household name in Canada and around the world, Montgomery frequently uses his platforms as a motivational speaker on topics close to his heart, including leadership, teamwork, and healthy living. A strong advocate for agriculture, Jon has been a fixture at important ag-related events around the country, including and the . In 2023, 4-H Canada was proud to have Montgomery host the virtual , where he led the celebration of 4-H youth, leaders, and supporters around the country. In a subsequent interview with The Pledge, 4-H Canada’s a

Sask. farmer with shoulder pain? The doctor would like to see you

Better Farming Prairies - February 6, 2024 - 7:39am
A researcher from the University of Saskatchewan (USask) is looking for Saskatchewan farmers with sore shoulders to participate in a study about how producers move. “The initial focus is looking at the postural exposures (movement requirements) farmers experience at work,” Dr. Angelica Lang, an associate professor at the Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health at the USask’s College of Medicine, told Farms.com. Dr. Lang also wants to connect with farmers who don’t have shoulder pain. This will allow her team to define the movements, compare those to farmers with pain and make other comparisons along the way. “We’ll look at sex, to see if women do things differently than men,” she said. “And for people who already have pain, we want to know if they’re moving differently than the people without pain. This can help us understand why injuries might be happening.” This research emerged from a previous study Dr. Lang ran. In 2022, she and Dr. Kenzie Friesen, a postdoctoral scholar in the Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre at the University of Calgary,

4-H Canada’s 2023 national award recipients

Ag Industry News Ontario - February 5, 2024 - 11:30am
; Photo courtesy of 4-H Canada 4-H Canada is proud to announce the recipients of three prestigious national awards: ; (s); and . 4-H provides youth with the guidance, resources, and opportunities to become contributing members of their community, their country, and the world by preparing them for the various paths of life and encouraging them to find their sense of self, purpose, and responsibility. Each year, the recognize the extraordinary contributions of supporters, volunteers, and alumni who embody the mission of 4-H and make an impact on youth and the communities they serve. Distinguished Alumni Award The is presented to honour the outstanding leadership and contributions of 4-H alumni to their communities, country, and world. This year’s winner is Jon Montgomery of Calgary, Alberta. That’s him in the photo above. You probably recognize him from at least one of three Canadian things. He is the TV host of The Amazing Race Canada, and he is an Olympic gold medal winner in the most dangerous winter sport—the skeleton, where you go headfirst down a curving downhill course atop a sled. He is one of this writer’s favourite athletes. He won his gold medal at the held in Vancouver, British Columbia. And if one thinks he can’t top all that, Montgomery is a proud second-generation 4-H’er! His involvement in the 4-H movement began in his hometown of Russell, Manitoba, where he was a youth member of the Russell 4-H Beef Club for four years. A proud alum, Montgomery has continued to live and breathe 4-H values throughout his career as an elite athlete, philanthropist, and national TV host. He embodies leadership skills, pride in his rural roots, drive to achieve world-class goals, and a ‘can-do’ attitude that parallels 4-H Canada’s ‘Learn To Do By Doing’ motto. Along with being an Olympic gold medallist, these 4-H values have taken him far, including taking on the mantle of host of in 2013 and remaining in that position today. A household name in Canada and around the world, Montgomery frequently uses his platforms as a motivational speaker on topics close to his heart, including leadership, teamwork, and healthy living. A strong advocate for agriculture, Jon has been a fixture at important ag-related events around the country, including and the . In 2023, 4-H Canada was proud to have Montgomery host the virtual , where he led the celebration of 4-H youth, leaders, and supporters around the country. In a subsequent interview with The Pledge, 4-H Canada’s a

Transfer lubricants, fuels, oils with the help of your drill

Better Pork - February 3, 2024 - 7:38am
By Braxten Breen Farms.com Intern Transferring fuels or lubricants is a routine necessity on any farming operation, but physically transferring these liquids is not always simple. For example, you have liquids in a jerry can or drum, but you need to get them to their end-use destination. Using spouts can sometimes be challenging when the spout does not cooperate, resulting in spillage. The Quick Flow Drill Pump Kit from SP Tools allows you to pump 3 liters of liquid per minute, at 1,200 RPMS with just a push of a button. Leaving your second hand free to manage suction and/or discharge hoses. The drills universal adapter allows any drill of any size to be used with the help of the rubber mounting strap which sets the drill firmly in place. The Drill Pump is ideal for transferring: Automotive Engine oil Automatic transmission Gear oil Brake fluid Power steering fluid Coolant Industrial Hydraulic oils Machining coolants Whether it is transferring fuel for a machine or truck, diesel for a generator, lubrication for an engine, SP tools Quick Flow Drill Pump Kit will do the trick in transferring fluids on the farm. Watch this video to learn more about this cool tool.

AGCO's FarmerCore – bringing services to the farm

Better Pork - February 3, 2024 - 7:38am
AGCO's FarmerCore Initiative, announced on January 30 (Read about the announcement), is making waves in agriculture. This initiative represents a significant shift in the industry and AGCO’s approach, placing farmers squarely at the center of the distribution, ownership, and service process for farm machinery. Farms.com spoke with AGCO’s John Rahiya, Director of Customer Connected Distribution, to learn more about the FarmCore initiative. Rahiya explained that there are three Pillars of FarmerCore: Physical Smart Network Coverage: AGCO is redefining the distribution landscape by offering alternative, localized locations that bring services closer to farmers. Instead of relying solely on large dealerships, this approach ensures proximity and convenience for farmers. Mobile and On-Farm Solutions: Understanding the time constraints farmers face, AGCO has introduced mobile service trucks staffed with skilled technicians and equipped with smart tools and diagnostics capabilities. This initiative aims to respond swiftly to on-farm issues, reducing downtime and providing maximum convenience for farmers. Digital Tools: FarmerCore leverages digital tools to enhance the farmer's experience. These user-friendly tools simplify interactions with AGCO, allowing farmers to engage at their preferred level, whether through digital channels, phone calls, or dealership visits. One of the standout features of FarmerCore is its commitment to simplifying technology for farmers. AGCO recognizes that not all farmers are tech-savvy, and time is precious. Therefore, the initiative streamlines processes, making it effortless for farmers to identify needed parts, check availability at local stores, and choose between pickup or delivery. The primary objective of FarmerCore is to save farmers time. It eliminates the need for extensive trips to dealerships by bringing services directly to the farm. Whether scheduled maintenance or addressing unexpected downtime, FarmerCore prioritizes speed to resolution and convenience for farmers. As FarmerCore gains traction, it promises to reshape the farming industry. Farmers will come to expect greater convenience, faster service, and a seamless digital experience. AGCO envisions a future where the entire agricultural community adopts a farmer-centric approach, revolutionizing industry standards and practices. Before launching FarmerCore on a larger scale, AGCO tested Farmer Core's concept through AG Revolution, a dealership in Indiana, and Illinois. This pilot phase allowed AGCO to refine its strategy and understand the practical implications of on-farm service and localized presence, confirming the viability of bringing services closer to farmers. Farmers who want to learn more about FarmerCore should contact their local AGCO dealer. While FarmerCore is currently in a pilot phase in 2024, expressing interest to local dealers may help accelerate its adoption in some regions. Watch the interview with John Rahiya to learn how AGCO is working to prioritize farmers' needs through convenience, digital innovation, and exceptional service.

France farmer protests over

Better Pork - February 3, 2024 - 7:38am
Image by Stefan Schweihofer from Pixabay It’s over. Two of France’s main farmers’ unions asked their members to end the protest that was blocking access in and out of the capital city of Paris after the government agreed to their demands. The French farmers took no pleasure in harassing their fellow countrymen. But it appears as though their hold on the arteries going in and out of the capital worked, as the French government agreed to many of their demands. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, just three weeks into the job, had failed with his initial attempt to quell the blockade that was starving Parisians of access to fresh fruits and vegetables. His second attempt went much better. The French protest was initiated after farmers said their concerns were being ignored by the government. French farmers were angry over rising input costs, increased taxes, falling income, and European agriculture policies. With regards to its European neighbours, French farmers were upset about its government purchasing too much agricultural product from Ukraine. Understanding that Ukraine is at war with Russia and can use financial aid, French farmers railed against its government for being too generous in flooding the market with Ukrainian goods, not to mention that they believe much of the Ukrainian products to be substandard to expected French food quality. Worse still, for the French farmers, the Ukrainian products were being sold at a cheaper price than their own. For French farmers, purchasing too many substandard and inexpensive Ukrainian agricultural products had affected their livelihood while lowering the accepted food standards for consumers. The French farmers said they had been raising their concerns to the government for years, but to finally get their point across, a tractor blockade at every roadway leading in and out of Paris caught not only the government’s attention but the attention of other European countries facing similar shortcomings. By way of apology and righting the situation, Attal said the government wants French ag to come first—French food products, produced in France, by its farmers. As well, the French government said it would create a $162 million financial aid package for its farmers. A financial aid package worth over CDN $215 million was promised for French livestock farmers. As well, the Prime Minister said there would be a ban on the import of fruit and vegetables treated with , an insecticide that may be harmful to honeybees. has been banned in the EU since 2019, but both Canada and the US allow its use, though only for limited purposes in Canada. Most importantly, the France plan—which follows the UK and EU’s plans—to reduce pesticide usage has been put on hold. While pesticide reduction is still being considered, the French government said it wants to implement an easier way for farmers to reduce pesticide usage while maintaining its yield quantity and quality. It just doesn’t know how to do that yet. The farmers’ action wasn’t a complete blockage. Aft

France farmer protests over

Better Farming Prairies - February 3, 2024 - 7:38am
Image by Stefan Schweihofer from Pixabay It’s over. Two of France’s main farmers’ unions asked their members to end the protest that was blocking access in and out of the capital city of Paris after the government agreed to their demands. The French farmers took no pleasure in harassing their fellow countrymen. But it appears as though their hold on the arteries going in and out of the capital worked, as the French government agreed to many of their demands. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, just three weeks into the job, had failed with his initial attempt to quell the blockade that was starving Parisians of access to fresh fruits and vegetables. His second attempt went much better. The French protest was initiated after farmers said their concerns were being ignored by the government. French farmers were angry over rising input costs, increased taxes, falling income, and European agriculture policies. With regards to its European neighbours, French farmers were upset about its government purchasing too much agricultural product from Ukraine. Understanding that Ukraine is at war with Russia and can use financial aid, French farmers railed against its government for being too generous in flooding the market with Ukrainian goods, not to mention that they believe much of the Ukrainian products to be substandard to expected French food quality. Worse still, for the French farmers, the Ukrainian products were being sold at a cheaper price than their own. For French farmers, purchasing too many substandard and inexpensive Ukrainian agricultural products had affected their livelihood while lowering the accepted food standards for consumers. The French farmers said they had been raising their concerns to the government for years, but to finally get their point across, a tractor blockade at every roadway leading in and out of Paris caught not only the government’s attention but the attention of other European countries facing similar shortcomings. By way of apology and righting the situation, Attal said the government wants French ag to come first—French food products, produced in France, by its farmers. As well, the French government said it would create a $162 million financial aid package for its farmers. A financial aid package worth over CDN $215 million was promised for French livestock farmers. As well, the Prime Minister said there would be a ban on the import of fruit and vegetables treated with , an insecticide that may be harmful to honeybees. has been banned in the EU since 2019, but both Canada and the US allow its use, though only for limited purposes in Canada. Most importantly, the France plan—which follows the UK and EU’s plans—to reduce pesticide usage has been put on hold. While pesticide reduction is still being considered, the French government said it wants to implement an easier way for farmers to reduce pesticide usage while maintaining its yield quantity and quality. It just doesn’t know how to do that yet. The farmers’ action wasn’t a complete blockage. Aft

Transfer lubricants, fuels, oils with the help of your drill

Ag Industry News Ontario - February 2, 2024 - 3:27pm
By Braxten Breen Farms.com Intern Transferring fuels or lubricants is a routine necessity on any farming operation, but physically transferring these liquids is not always simple. For example, you have liquids in a jerry can or drum, but you need to get them to their end-use destination. Using spouts can sometimes be challenging when the spout does not cooperate, resulting in spillage. The Quick Flow Drill Pump Kit from SP Tools allows you to pump 3 liters of liquid per minute, at 1,200 RPMS with just a push of a button. Leaving your second hand free to manage suction and/or discharge hoses. The drills universal adapter allows any drill of any size to be used with the help of the rubber mounting strap which sets the drill firmly in place. The Drill Pump is ideal for transferring: Automotive Engine oil Automatic transmission Gear oil Brake fluid Power steering fluid Coolant Industrial Hydraulic oils Machining coolants Whether it is transferring fuel for a machine or truck, diesel for a generator, lubrication for an engine, SP tools Quick Flow Drill Pump Kit will do the trick in transferring fluids on the farm. Watch this video to learn more about this cool tool.

Ontario Pork Partners with the Kitchener Rangers to Restock Food Bank Shelves

Better Pork - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
GUELPH - In celebration of Canada’s Agriculture Day, Ontario Pork is excited to announce that we are teaming up with the Ontario Hockey League's Kitchener Rangers to hold a large-scale food drive and help tackle hunger. On Tuesday February 13, 2024, as the Rangers play host to the Guelph Storm, fans are being asked to bring a non-perishable food item to the game. The food will be collected by volunteers from Ontario Pork and Feed Ontario and distributed through The Food Bank of Waterloo Region. This food drive comes at an important time, as February remains a month when food bank shelves have been depleted during a busy holiday season, but the need continues to grow. There are a limited number of tickets available for producers and industry members to purchase in a group setting. Producers or industry members interested in purchasing discounted tickets to this game please email tyler.calver@ontariopork.on.ca Whether it’s a family night out, an employee appreciation opportunity, or team building within your local association, we encourage you to celebrate our industry and experience OHL hockey while supporting those in need. For more information contact: Tyler Calver Ontario Pork, Senior Communications Specialist tyler.calver@ontariopork.on.ca

Cow feed can now not be a gas

Better Pork - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
Image via Grigorenko/iStock/Getty Images Plus photo Moo-ve over gassy feed, there’s a new additive in town. Just approved for use in Canada, , , is a livestock ingredient that will reduce cattle methane emissions via burps and… you know. With approval from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the Bovaer product is said to neutralize methane in the rumen. When microbes in the rumen break down the feed, hydrogen and carbon dioxide gases are released, which combine when there’s an enzyme present. But Bovaer suppresses the enzyme, thereby reducing the amount of methane created. With less methane created, it also means fewer possible methane gases released by the cattle. Dsm-Firmenich said that the product (produced by the same-named Bovaer) could be available for sale in Canada in a few weeks. Dsm-Firmenich has the right to sell the product in Canada. Additional Canadian research into ingredient usage shows that cattle achieve a small increase in feed efficiency without any change in their growth rate. Mark van Nieuwland, the Vice-President of Bovaer, stated: “This will benefit Canadian farmers, the efforts of the sector, and support Canada in delivering on its international emissions reduction commitments, such as the Global Methane Pledge.” According to van Nieuwland, Canadian cattle feeders can reduce cow methane emissions by an average of 45 percent by using the ingredient. For dairy cows, the company said that the product additive can “reduce methane emissions by 30 percent on average, potentially lowering the overall greenhouse gas footprint per litre of milk by 10 to 15 percent.”

Canada joins Efficient Fertilizer Consortium

Better Pork - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
Canada has joined an organization whose goal is to support fertilizer product development and environmental stewardship. Along with the United States, the United Kingdom, and other ag industry stakeholders, Canada has become a founding member of the Efficient Fertilizer Consortium (EFC). The EFC is a 4.5-year public-private partnership which is funding research that accelerates “development and wide adoption of novel fertilizers that increase nutrient-use efficiency and reduce loss to the environment through nitrous oxide and other greenhouse gas emissions, leaching and/or runoff,” the EFC’s webpage says. The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that builds public-private partnerships to support science that addresses food and ag challenges, created the EFC. Canada will contribute $1.3 million to the consortium over the next four years. Its involvement will set Canadian farmers up for future success, said Lawrence MacAulay, Canada’s minister of agriculture. “We're helping ensure that our farmers and producers are well-equipped to make informed decisions that are good for the environment and their bottom line,” he said in a statement. “International collaboration is vitally important to addressing global food security and putting healthy and affordable food on tables right across Canada.”

Canada-Saskatchewan Feed Program Expands in 2023

Better Pork - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
By Farms.com To support livestock producers, the Canada-Saskatchewan Feed Program has announced an expansion in eligibility areas and an extension of the application deadline for 2023. This initiative, a collaborative effort between Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) and Saskatchewan's Ministry of Agriculture, comes as a response to the adverse effects of recent drought conditions in the region. Ministers Lawrence MacAulay and David Marit emphasized the importance of this update, acknowledging the challenges faced by producers. The program, administered by the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC), aims to provide financial relief and support to those in the agricultural sector impacted by dry conditions. An additional 10 Rural Municipalities (RMs) are now included in the program, allowing for a wider range of producers to access vital funds. Producers can now receive up to $150 per head with full cost-shared funding. This expansion reflects the government's recognition of the hardships faced due to the drought and its commitment to supporting the agriculture sector. The deadline for applications has been extended to March 15, 2024. This gives producers more time to review program details and submit their applications. The eligibility criteria require an indication of the number of breeding animals held from August 21, 2023, to January 31, 2024. This extension is geared towards ensuring that the actual extraordinary costs and breeding animal inventory are accurately captured in the applications. Eligible expenses under this program include costs for purchased feed, transportation, and rented land for grazing or additional feed production. The program covers a variety of livestock, including beef cattle, bison, elk, deer, sheep, goats, and horses. Importantly, a Saskatchewan Premises Identification (PID) is necessary for eligibility. For ease of application, an online form along with a user guide is available at the SCIC website. A dedicated team is also on hand to assist producers through phone or email support. This update is part of the broader AgriRecovery initiative, a federal-provincial-territorial partnership aimed at aiding agricultural producers in disaster situations. With a combined commitment of up to $147 million from Saskatchewan and the Federal Government, this initiative underlines the importance of the agricultural sector in Canada and thhe government's dedication to its sustainability and growth, especially in challenging times.

Register Now for Crop Insight with Great Lakes YEN

Better Pork - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
By Farms.com Calling all farmers interested in maximizing winter wheat crop returns! The 2024 Great Lakes Yield Enhancement Network (YEN) is now open for registration, offering a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into crop performance. Established in 2021, the Great Lakes YEN is dedicated to helping farmers elevate their winter wheat yields by providing in-depth knowledge about crop performance. Registration for this insightful program closes on February 2nd, 2024, or when maximum capacity is reached – so act fast! Participants in the Great Lakes YEN can look forward to: Collecting soil and plant samples, meticulously analyzed at an accredited laboratory. Engaging in multiple in-person networking events, fostering connections with farmers and researchers. Receiving a comprehensive, personalized report summarizing data specific to their individual fields. Agronomists and crop consultants are integral to the success of the Great Lakes

Livestock drought assistance expanded in Sask. and Alta

Better Pork - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
The federal government and provincial governments in Western Canada are providing more support for livestock producers affected by the drought in 2023. In Saskatchewan, the Canada-Saskatchewan Feed Program’s application deadline has been extended to March 15, 2024. And farmers in 10 more rural municipalities are eligible for support payments of up to $150 per head. The new communities are the R.M.’s of: Britannia No. 502 Rosthern No. 403 Bayne No. 371 Lumsden No. 189 Sherwood No. 159 Bratt’s Lake No. 129 Lajord No. 128

P&H closing Glossop elevator in Manitoba

Better Pork - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
Farmers in Manitoba have one less grain elevator to do business at. Parrish & Heimbecker (P&H) sent emails to producers indicating that as of Jan. 31, 2024, its grain elevator in Strathclair (Glossop), Man., would permanently close. Producers will still be able to access the crop inputs business operating out of the same location. Andrew Dalgarno, a farmer from Newdale, Man., posted a photo of P&H’s letter on X on Jan. 11. The email identifies other grain elevators farmers can use. “To continue serving your grain requirements, we have strategically identified alternative locations in Gladstone, Dutton (Gilbert Plaints), and Virden,” the letter says. “These locations will now handle all grain contracts and deliveries, providing you with uninterrupted service and support.” Each of those locations is within two hours of the Glossop elevator. The large steel elevator in Strathclair was built as a Pioneer elevator in 1994. At the time, the elevator was the company’s first high-throughput elevator. It now has a capacity of 22,000 tonnes and can handle 11,000 bushels per hour. It can also store 1,600 tonnes of fertilizer, Gr

Manitoba PCs announce new leadership

Better Pork - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
The Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba is officially on the road to choosing a new leader. Party members voted for Wayne Ewasko, the MLA for Lac du Bonnet since 2011, and a former minister of education and early childhood learning to serve as the party’s interim leader and leader of the Official Opposition. “I’m extremely honoured to have been chosen by our PC caucus to lead them going into the leadership race,” he told media at the Manitoba Legislature on Jan. 29. He will be in these positions until party members elect a new leader in a leadership contest planned for later in 2024. Ewasko takes over for Heather Stefanson. She announced her resignation as leader on Jan. 15, calling her time as leader and premier “the honour of a lifetime,” and says she’s looking forward to watching the PCs hold the NDP government accountable. She publicized her intent to step down following the

Canadian Universities Forge Agri-Food Innovation Path

Better Pork - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
By: Farms.com In an exciting development for Canada's agriculture and food industry, two leading research universities, the University of Guelph (U of G) and the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), have established a partnership. This collaboration is set to drive sustainable innovation within the nation's lucrative $140 billion agri-food sector. Dr. Evan Fraser from U of G’s Arrell Food Institute and Dr. Lenore Newman from UFV's Food and Agriculture Institute are at the helm of this alliance. The partnership arises amid pressing global concerns such as climate change, food waste, and the increasing issue of food insecurity, coupled with a looming shortage of skilled agricultural workers. The main objective of this collaboration is to explore new pathways for sustainable innovation in the agri-food sector. It aims to mold future leaders in the field, with Canada poised to become a global frontrunner in producing safe, sustainable, and healthy food. “One aspect of this partnership that I am so excited about is the potential to develop a national training platform to inspire and equip the next generation of leaders to help propel Canada on the global stage in terms of being the world leader in the production of safe, healthy and sustainable food,“ said Dr. Fraser. Key initiatives under this partnership include the development of a national agricultural technology strategy, fostering Canada's Agri-Tech ecosystem, and addressing food security as a critical aspect of national security. The collaboration will involve a series of accelerator workshops, the creation of a national network of agricultural technology players, and funding research to scale new innovations for market integration. This partnership is receiving early support from the Abbotsford Tech District, an agricultural technology accelerator. It signifies a major leap towards collaborative pathways for Canadian-made agriculture and food innovations, integrating solution-oriented technologies for mainstream market adoption. The U of G and UFV collaboration marks a significant moment in Canadian agri-food history, focusing on sustainable practices and technological advancements in agriculture. This partnership is a beacon of hope for the future, promising a more sustainable and prosperous agri-food sector in Canada. “Agricultural technology is essential to Canada’s food security and we are at a critical point where we must secure and increase the global food supply,” commented Peter Dhillon, chairman of the board, Ocean Spray, and CEO of the Richberry Group Close collaboration between applie

Cow feed can now not be a gas

Better Farming Prairies - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
Image via Grigorenko/iStock/Getty Images Plus photo Moo-ve over gassy feed, there’s a new additive in town. Just approved for use in Canada, , , is a livestock ingredient that will reduce cattle methane emissions via burps and… you know. With approval from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the Bovaer product is said to neutralize methane in the rumen. When microbes in the rumen break down the feed, hydrogen and carbon dioxide gases are released, which combine when there’s an enzyme present. But Bovaer suppresses the enzyme, thereby reducing the amount of methane created. With less methane created, it also means fewer possible methane gases released by the cattle. Dsm-Firmenich said that the product (produced by the same-named Bovaer) could be available for sale in Canada in a few weeks. Dsm-Firmenich has the right to sell the product in Canada. Additional Canadian research into ingredient usage shows that cattle achieve a small increase in feed efficiency without any change in their growth rate. Mark van Nieuwland, the Vice-President of Bovaer, stated: “This will benefit Canadian farmers, the efforts of the sector, and support Canada in delivering on its international emissions reduction commitments, such as the Global Methane Pledge.” According to van Nieuwland, Canadian cattle feeders can reduce cow methane emissions by an average of 45 percent by using the ingredient. For dairy cows, the company said that the product additive can “reduce methane emissions by 30 percent on average, potentially lowering the overall greenhouse gas footprint per litre of milk by 10 to 15 percent.”

Livestock drought assistance expanded in Sask. and Alta

Better Farming Prairies - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
The federal government and provincial governments in Western Canada are providing more support for livestock producers affected by the drought in 2023. In Saskatchewan, the Canada-Saskatchewan Feed Program’s application deadline has been extended to March 15, 2024. And farmers in 10 more rural municipalities are eligible for support payments of up to $150 per head. The new communities are the R.M.’s of: Britannia No. 502 Rosthern No. 403 Bayne No. 371 Lumsden No. 189 Sherwood No. 159 Bratt’s Lake No. 129 Lajord No. 128

P&H closing Glossop elevator in Manitoba

Better Farming Prairies - February 2, 2024 - 7:38am
Farmers in Manitoba have one less grain elevator to do business at. Parrish & Heimbecker (P&H) sent emails to producers indicating that as of Jan. 31, 2024, its grain elevator in Strathclair (Glossop), Man., would permanently close. Producers will still be able to access the crop inputs business operating out of the same location. Andrew Dalgarno, a farmer from Newdale, Man., posted a photo of P&H’s letter on X on Jan. 11. The email identifies other grain elevators farmers can use. “To continue serving your grain requirements, we have strategically identified alternative locations in Gladstone, Dutton (Gilbert Plaints), and Virden,” the letter says. “These locations will now handle all grain contracts and deliveries, providing you with uninterrupted service and support.” Each of those locations is within two hours of the Glossop elevator. The large steel elevator in Strathclair was built as a Pioneer elevator in 1994. At the time, the elevator was the company’s first high-throughput elevator. It now has a capacity of 22,000 tonnes and can handle 11,000 bushels per hour. It can also store 1,600 tonnes of fertilizer, Gr