Humans spread ASF in Europe Tuesday, February 9, 2016 Humans are responsible for the spread of African Swine Fever in eastern Europe. That is the conclusion of scientists Klaus Depner and Sandra Blome at Germany's Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut.High levels of the virus causing ASF are found in the blood of infected animals, much less in saliva and feces, so living animals are not that contagious. Furthermore, sick animals with fevers don't travel; they stay put and die a few days after infection. Carcasses of infected wild boars do remain a source of infection for some time. The scientists speculate that, when many pigs were going to die, they were sent to slaughter and infected meat made it to markets, homes and suitcases. The virus spread along main roads.Farms that became infected were found to have insufficient biosecurity measures in place. Attempts to eradicate wild boars, thought to be a source of the disease, simply scared sick animals away, so that they died in other locations. Good hygiene and biosecurity are the answer, the scientists say. BP Venting on the weather Sizzle hasn't left the price of bacon
Essential Pre-Season Seeder Prep Every Farmer Should Do Tuesday, February 17, 2026 A successful planting season starts long before the tractor hits the field. Whether you run an air seeder, box drill, or precision planter, proper preseason maintenance ensures accurate seed placement, consistent emergence, and fewer costly breakdowns. Here is a guide to getting your... Read this article online
Ag in the House: Feb. 9 – 13 Tuesday, February 17, 2026 John Barlow, the Conservative agriculture critic, wanted answers about Canada’s dealings with China and how it pertains to canola farmers. On Feb. 12, and citing a Reuters report, Barlow asked for clarification about when Canadian canola farmers would see the tariff relief the prime... Read this article online
AWC Helps Women Navigate Hard Moments in Agriculture Tuesday, February 17, 2026 In these difficult economic times in agriculture, you may be needing to have a few hard conversations. When a conversation feels tough, it’s often because something meaningful is on the line — a relationship, a job, respect, expectations, or even your own boundaries. No wonder your nervous... Read this article online
Kelle Neufeld Appointed New General Manager of Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Convention Tuesday, February 17, 2026 The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention (OFVC), whose annual convention is Feberuary 18 and19, has named Kelle Neufeld as its new General Manager, effective May 1, 2026. Neufeld brings more than 12 years of experience in the Canadian agriculture sector, with a career focused on... Read this article online
OPP Wrangle Runaway Horses Monday, February 16, 2026 Earlier this month, Lambton County residents saw a bit of unexpected horsepower trotting through Enniskillen Township—minus the engine. According to OPP West Region, officers were called out to rescue a loose horse that had taken itself on a brisk winter outing. Under the... Read this article online