Feral hogs being poisoned with bacon preservative Monday, October 6, 2014 In a cruel twist of fate, America's five million feral hogs may soon be poisoned by the very preservative that cures the flesh of their domesticated counterparts.The Associated Press reports that sodium nitrite, already used to poison feral swine in Australia and New Zealand, is being tested by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It's currently illegal to poison pigs in the United States, but hunting and trapping have been inadequate controls for the problematic porkers. Wild pigs cost approximately US$1.5 billion a year, which includes $800 million in agricultural damage.Feral pigs do more than just uproot veggies and eat crops. In 2006, three people died and 200 were sickened by a batch of California spinach tainted with E. coli. Wild pig feces were identified as a likely source of the bacteria.Sodium nitrite is much more toxic to pigs than people, so it should be safe to use. So far, it hasn't reached the 90 per cent kill rate needed for Environmental Protection Agency consideration. Also, challenges have arisen in making the bait palatable and enticing, and creating a bait container other animals can't break into. So hogs are safe, for now. BP EU pig industry 'out of control,' say animal welfarists Behind the Lines - October 2014
Canadian tech leads the way for egg gender testing Friday, February 7, 2025 Photo by Erol Ahmed on Unsplash Canadian Egg Technologies and MatrixSpec Solutions Inc. have announced that their technology is delivering accurate in-ovo gender determination for white and brown eggs as early as the fourth day of incubation. Called a transformative breakthrough for... Read this article online
Mental Health 24/7 Crisis Help Line for Canadian Farmers Friday, February 7, 2025 A new mental health initiative is now available for Canadian farmers, farm families, and agricultural workers. The National Farmer Wellness Network (NFWN) Crisis Line, 1-866-FARMS01 (1-866-327-6701), offers confidential and specialized mental health support tailored to the unique challenges... Read this article online
Seeds Canada Strengthens Trade Ties with CAFTA Friday, February 7, 2025 Seeds Canada has joined the Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA) as a Friend of CAFTA, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing trade opportunities in the agriculture and agri-food sectors. This collaboration aims to promote a fair and open international trading environment,... Read this article online
Clear Snow Quickly and Safely with VEVOR’s Farm-Friendly Design Friday, February 7, 2025 BY:Callyn Healy Weather conditions can make or break farming operations, as heavy snowfall can damage infrastructures. Large barns and shops have a higher risk of damage from heavy snow buildup. The VEVOR Snow Roof Rake is a tool designed for easy and safe snow removal, offering a... Read this article online
A little US – Canada Competition to Boost Wheat Yields Friday, February 7, 2025 The Great Lakes Yield Enhancement Network (YEN) is a data-driven initiative designed to help wheat farmers understand and enhance their crop yields. Developed in partnership with leading agricultural organizations, the program provides detailed insights into field performance through... Read this article online