Urban bees use plastic to build hives Thursday, May 1, 2014 "Busy" may need to be changed to "resourceful." A recent study by scientists from the University of Guelph and York University shows that two Toronto bee species are using bits of plastic waste as construction material for their brood cells. Scott MacIvor and Andrew Moore published their findings in Ecosphere in December. By observing trap nests in Toronto, they discovered that the Megachile campanulae hives, traditionally made with plant and tree resins, had bits of polyurethane exterior house sealant incorporated into them. And the hives of Megachile rotundata (leafcutter bees), usually made with leaves, contained chewed-up pieces of plastic bags. The study shows that the use of plastics was "incidental" rather than accidental and not a result of a shortage of natural building materials. Larvae developed successfully from the trap nests. Plastic may have an advantage as it can physically impede parasites. BF Herbicide resistance a problem . . . for somebody else Behind the Lines - May 2014
US-Canada tariff uncertainty continues to concern businesses and farmers Wednesday, August 19, 2026 As of late August 2026, trade relations between Canada and the United States remain under pressure as both countries work to finalize an agreement aimed at preventing a new round of tariffs from disrupting cross-border commerce. While a temporary reprieve has been secured, uncertainty... Read this article online
Woolwich Farmland Fight - Petition Urges Council to Protect Prime Ontario Agricultural Land Monday, August 17, 2026 A proposal to redesignate 107acres of agricultural land in Woolwich Township for employment and industrial development is drawing increasing opposition from residents and farmland advocates who say the project would come at the expense of valuable farmland and the region's agricultural... Read this article online
Gay Lea Expands Dairy Plant for Protein Demand Monday, August 17, 2026 Gay Lea Foods has announced an investment of more than $200 million to expand its dairy manufacturing facility in Toronto, Ontario. The project is designed to increase production capacity and help meet the rising demand for high-protein dairy products, including cottage cheese. The... Read this article online
2026 Great Ontario Yield Tour Early Reports Show Strong Corn and Soybean Potential Monday, August 17, 2026 Ontario's annual Great Ontario Yield Tour is underway, and early reports are painting a generally optimistic picture for the province's 2026 corn and soybean crop. However, Great Ontario Yield Tour scouts have also highlighted regional challenges. The 11th Annual Great Ontario Yield... Read this article online
How Busch turned bales into advertising dollars for farmers Wednesday, August 12, 2026 Busch is taking a different approach to advertising in rural Canada by moving marketing dollars from city billboards directly into farmers’ fields. The brand’s new “Baleboard” campaign transforms hay bales into oversized six-pack displays inspired by Busch’s limited-edition Farmer’s Pack.... Read this article online