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
Grain Farmers of Ontario invests in future leaders with 2025 Legacy Scholarships Monday, November 24, 2025 Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO), the province’s largest commodity organization representing 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean, and wheat farmers, has announced the nine recipients of its . Each student will receive $5,000 to support their studies at accredited post-secondary... Read this article online
Kubota BX23S - Your Farm’s MVP Monday, November 24, 2025 The Kubota BX23S stands out as a powerful and efficient compact tractor designed to meet the needs of farmers. As part of Kubota’s trusted BX Series, this model serves as a dedicated tractor loader backhoe, offering superior strength and versatility for a wide range of... Read this article online
Titan XC marks 100 million acres treated, driving fertilizer efficiency for farmers Friday, November 21, 2025 Loveland Products, Inc. has announced that , its leading fertilizer biocatalyst, has now been applied to more than 100 million acres across North America since its introduction in 2013. The achievement underscores ’s long-standing role in helping farmers improve nutrient efficiency... Read this article online
Winter Farm Meeting with Keynote and Networking Friday, November 21, 2025 The Grey Soil & Crop AGM and Winter Meeting , as well as Social Tradeshow will take place on December 18, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Bognor Community Centre in Bognor, Ontario. The evening format is new this year, offering participants a warm and welcoming environment to connect... Read this article online
Buying a horse? How to protect yourself from fraud and hidden health issues Thursday, November 20, 2025 Buying a horse is a major investment for farmers and equine enthusiasts alike. Whether for work, breeding, or recreation, the process often involves trust between buyer and seller. Unfortunately, that trust can sometimes be misplaced. Cases of horses sold with undisclosed... Read this article online