Risk-assessment models prove ineffective Monday, December 7, 2015 A recent study has found that current risk-assessment models can't tell safe crops from invasive weeds.Over the years, concerns have been raised over the invasive tendencies of certain biofuel crops, with risk-assessments recommended before planting. But scientists at Virginia Tech have found that the current "gold-standard" risk-assessment models, used to determine a plant's risk of becoming invasive, are ineffective.According to a press release, the scientists used two of the top risk-assessment models to test 16 bioenergy crops, 14 agronomic crops and 10 known invasive weeds introduced for agronomic purposes. Neither model could reliably distinguish between weeds and crops. Kudzu – a damaging invasive species that has spread across the American southeast – was rated as safer than cereal rye."It is clear we should be cautious about using current risk assessment models in setting biofuels policy," Jacob Barney, assistant professor at Virginia Tech said in the press release. BF Cotton underwear helps measure soil activity 'Gluten-free' cereal brings customer complaints
New Canadian Swine Research Targets Piglet Disease Monday, March 23, 2026 Swine InnovationPorc(SIP) is investing in new research to address Streptococcus suis, a harmful bacterial disease affecting post-weaned piglets led byDongyanXu Niu at the University of Calgary. This disease can cause serious health problems such as respiratory illness, meningitis, and sudden... Read this article online
Canada Packers Posts Strong Volume Growth and Profitability in First Year as Standalone Company Tuesday, March 17, 2026 Canada Packers Inc., recently split off from Maple Leaf Foods, reported its financial results earlier this month for the fiscal year ended December 27, 2025, highlighting increased hog volumes, steady sales growth and disciplined financial execution. In the fourth quarter of 2025,... Read this article online
Canada’s Real Seasons (According to Farmers Who Actually Live Here) Monday, March 16, 2026 According to a chart that’s been making the rounds on social media, courtesy of The Weather Network—the Canadian calendar has officially been updated. Apparently, we no longer live by the simple rhythm of winter, spring, summer, and fall. Instead, we now rotate through such crowd... Read this article online
Ontario Equine Industry Drives Rural Economy Monday, March 16, 2026 A new economic study has revealed the major contribution of Ontario’s equine agricultural sector to the province’s economy and rural communities. The Ontario Equine Agricultural Economic Impact Study Report provides the first comprehensive evaluation of the industry since 2010 and offers... Read this article online
Julia Montgomery Named OVC Dean Monday, March 16, 2026 The University of Guelph has announced the appointment of Dr. Julia Montgomery as the new dean of the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC).She will begin her five-year leadership term on June 15, 2026.The appointment marksan important stepfor one of Canada’s most respected veterinary... Read this article online