U.S. report downplays pesticides as colony collapse cause Thursday, June 6, 2013 Pesticides are commonly blamed for bee colony collapse. But they are way down the list of causes cited by a multi-department U.S. government report released in early May. The study cites the parasitic mite Varroa destructor as the primary underlying cause. Also named are "multiple virus species," bacterial disease European foulbrood, nutrition, and gut microbes that "play key roles in enhancement of nutrition, detoxification of chemicals and protection against diseases." The solutions include: greater genetic diversity among honeybee colonies with breeding to emphasize traits such as hygienic behaviour that would improve disease resistance. And there is the issue of nutrition. Row crops aren't good for bees. Forage crops are. Supplemental feeding doesn't make up the difference. A press release says the role of pesticides needs more study. The report is from a stakeholder conference organized in Alexandria Va. last October. BF Raw milk cheeses scrutinized in U.S. Survey says organic label 'an excuse to charge more'
Grape King and Queen of the Furrow Unite for IPM in Niagara Friday, August 15, 2025 Two iconic agricultural traditions in Ontario came together in a special event in Niagara’s wine country. Jeff Duc, the Grape King, welcomed Taylor Legge, the Ontario Queen of the Furrow, for a meaningful meeting that highlights the shared values of excellence, leadership, and dedication to... Read this article online
Grain Rescue Training: Saving Lives Beyond the Prairies Thursday, August 14, 2025 When thinking about grain bins and grain entrapment incidents, most people likely conjure up images of Prairie farms. And while that’s understandable, grain hazards exist across the country anywhere that grain is stored—including far away from the Prairies on Prince Edward... Read this article online
UK celeb’s farm faces TB outbreak Thursday, August 14, 2025 Jeremy Clarkson, the famously outspoken British television presenter, journalist, and motoring enthusiast, has found himself in the middle of a farming crisis. Best known for hosting and , Clarkson has more recently become a farmer and rural advocate through his unscripted Amazon Prime... Read this article online
Ontario Yield Tour Highlights Mixed Crop Conditions Thursday, August 14, 2025 From above-average yields to drought stress and pollination issues, this year’s tour captures a season of contrasts across the province. The 2025 Great Ontario Yield Tour is highlighting the varied conditions Ontario farmers are facing this season. Early stops show both strong yields and... Read this article online
Better Soil Health Improves Rain Absorption Wednesday, August 13, 2025 The OMAFA Fieldcropnews.com team recently held demonstrations regarding how soil management can greatly affect the amount of rainfall absorbed into the soil for crop use. This is especially important for corn, soybean, and wheat growers facing dry spells or intense summer storms. In early... Read this article online