Canada's seed potatoes nematode free: again Thursday, February 17, 2011 by BETTER FARMING STAFFFor the third year in a row the Canadian Food Inspection Agency found no sign of potato cyst nematodes in its survey of the country’s seed potato production fields.Brian Rex, acting national manager of the agency’s potato cyst nematode section, says that means seed potatoes produced in the surveyed areas will receive a green light for export. Survey results “facilitate market access for exports of Canadian seed potatoes” going to countries requiring assurance that the seed potatoes are free of the pest, he explains. The nematode does not pose a risk to human health but is recognized internationally as a quarantined plant pest. If left unmanaged it can reduce yields in potatoes and related crops such as tomato and eggplant.The potato cyst nematodes are microscopic wormlike organisms. Infestations are usually localize. Signs include yellowing, wilting or death of foliage and small potato tubers. In heavy infestations the cyst nematodes will be clearly visible on the plant’s roots.The agency analyzed 43,200 soil samples and tested about 80 per cent of the Canadian seed potato production area. Seed potatoes produced on fields that haven’t been surveyed can’t be exported, Rex says.Rex says some nematodes were found in Quebec and Alberta in 2006. Alberta, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick are Canada’s main potato seed producing provinces. In 2010, Ontario had 270 hectares of the country’s top 50 registered seed potatoes. PEI had 5,467 hectares, the most in the country. BF No appeal in alfalfa case CFIA outsources soybean seed crop inspection
Documentary Sheds Light on Farmerettes who Helped Feed a Nation Saturday, August 2, 2025 During World War II, food shortages became a serious issue for Canada and its allies. With many men away at war, the government formed the Ontario Farm Service Force, sending 40,000 teenage girls from Ontario and Quebec —known as the Farmerettes—to help farms in Southwestern... Read this article online
Sowing the Seeds of the Future -- A Fresh Look at Farm Succession in Canada Friday, August 1, 2025 “You’ve worked the land for decades—through changing seasons, shifting markets, and long days that begin before sunrise," says Jason Castellan, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Skyline when he spoke with Farms.com. “You know every acre, every decision, every responsibility that... Read this article online
Do you have a grain bin that needs repair? Friday, August 1, 2025 Maintaining grain bins in optimal condition is a constant challenge for farmers. However, with the cool tools InstaGRIP Tile and GlassSTEEL, this task becomes significantly easier and more efficient. These cutting-edge solutions offer quick and durable repairs, ensuring your grain bins... Read this article online
CN’s 2025-26 Grain Plan is now available Friday, August 1, 2025 CN (Canadian National Railway) has released its . It’s a plan that demonstrates CN’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-performance service through disciplined planning, targeted infrastructure investments, and proactive supply chain collaboration. For this past crop year,... Read this article online
Ontario’s AALP Class 21 Leaders Announced for 2025 Friday, August 1, 2025 The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) is proud to announce the selection of 18 emerging leaders from across Ontario for Class 21 of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP). Set to begin their leadership journey in August 2025, these participants represent diverse sectors of Ontario’s... Read this article online