Project aims to build swine nutrition awareness Thursday, April 14, 2011 by PAT CURRIEOn the grounds that more knowledge about swine nutrition can only help swine producers understand the full impact of feed on production costs, the Ontario Pork Industry Council (OPIC) has announced details of a self-directed educational project for producers that will also include better business-management skills. "Feed is a very expensive part of the cost of production," Greg Simpson, an Elora-based swine nutritionist with the Ontario ministry of agriculture said Friday.Simpson worked on developing the project along with Professor Paul Luimes of the University of Guelph, Ridgetown campus.Each learning module developed by Luimese and Simpson contains a quiz to allow users to self-assess their knowledge after completing each one, OPIC spokesperson Sue Shafer said. OPIC managing director Lori Moser said the course will help fill "a gap in the availability of continuing education and training courses for swine producers who wish to enhance their understanding and gain greater oversight of their nutrition program as it relates to cost of production."It might also be picked up by farmers in other provinces, Moser said. The free learning program can lead to a certificate from OPIC and qualify participants for a second phase in the program which includes participation in a diet formulation training session, said OPUIC spokesp[erson Sue Shafer.Phase One is now underway and participants can register for the e-training at www.opic.on.ca . For more information contact Sue Shafer, opicsue@gmail.com , 519-993-0469. BF Ontario Pork hires provincial biosecurity co-ordinator Jeffray begins third term at Ontario Pork with new challenges
USDA Report Sparks Mixed Results Across Grain Markets Thursday, October 15, 2026 Grain and oilseed markets posted mixed results during the week ending October 9, 2026, as traders evaluated larger-than-expected U.S. corn production estimates, harvest delays, changing fund positions and potential weather risks in South America. Corn prices declined sharply, while... Read this article online
Paul Hoekstra Joins U of G Leadership Thursday, October 15, 2026 The University of Guelph has appointed Paul Hoekstra as its first executive director of agri-food strategy and partnerships, marking an important step in the institution’s efforts to strengthen ties with Ontario’s agricultural and agri-food sectors. Hoekstra brings more than 20 years of... Read this article online
Canada Backs Smart Lettuce Farming Wednesday, October 14, 2026 Vegetable farmers across Canada face several challenges, including labor shortages, rising production costs, profitability concerns, and the increasing effects of climate change. These challenges make it more important than ever for growers to have access to accurate information and... Read this article online
Using bats to protect crops and livestock Wednesday, October 14, 2026 Just as Batman has been known to use live bats to thwart crime in Gotham City, B.C. farmers are invited to learn about employing bats to stop insects causing crop and livestock damage. The Okanagan Similkameen Stewardship Society and the BC Community Bat Program are hosting a free event... Read this article online
Sask. opens consultations on farmland law Wednesday, October 14, 2026 The Saskatchewan government is inviting farmers and others to take an online survey related to farm legislation. Until Nov. 30, Saskatchewanians can participate in the public consultation related to The Saskatchewan Farm Security Act, which covers multiple farm ownership... Read this article online