A LUXURIOUS A TRUE APPROACH MOUNTIE Earning premiums starts with avoiding Cattle thieves learned to fear the commodity mindset » PG 3 Cpl. Dave Heaslip » PG 42

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Volume 12, number 7 m a r c h 3 0 , 2 0 1 5

It’s getting dry — is it time to worry? Face the facts — No, says weather expert, but areas across the province are on Bruce Burnett’s watch list trust trumps science

By Alexis Kienlen and Jennifer Blair af staff for many consumers i t h w a r m - w e a t h e r records dropping like And the key to building trust, says expert Charlie Arnot, is to show that farmers are W flies and bare fields dry- transparent and share the same values as consumers ing out in parts of the province, is there trouble ahead? Don’t worry yet, says Bruce Bur- nett, weather and crops specialist By Alexis Kienlen at the CWB. af staff / leduc “I don’t think that this early- spring weather means that we are hen it comes to talking about necessarily headed for a drought,” agriculture, a “just the facts” Burnett said in a March 20 inter- W approach doesn’t cut it anymore. view. Attitudes towards the food industry have changed and those in agriculture see DRY } page 6 have to adopt new tactics to reach out to consumers, said Charlie Arnot of the Cen- ter for Food Integrity. “People are fundamentally more skepti- cal about food than ever before, which is a great frustration to people in agriculture,” said Arnot, CEO of the American non- profit organization, which is dedicated to building consumer confidence in the food system. “We find ourselves in a different place today, which means we need to adopt some new strategies. We can’t continue to do the same things we did 10, 20 or 30 years ago and expect them to work in this rapidly changing environment.” The Internet has changed how people learn about food, and controlling the mes- sage on this or any other topic is no longer possible, Arnot told attendees at a recent social licensing conference here.

TRUST } page 7 PHOto: thinkstock

SPRAY WHEN YOU WANT IN THE CONDITIONS GO YOU’VE GOT.

It’s GO time — visit dowagro.ca TM Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow. 0115-41246-2 AFE 2 news » inside this week MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

inside » livestock crops  columNists

BASIC BIXS TO LESSEN THE FINE TUNING Sylvain Charlebois STAY FREE How will consumers react STRESS FERTILITY to a GM apple? 4 But new owners also want paying customers 8 Brenda Schoepp Inspired by the OPPORTUNITY contribution of women 5 AWAITS If GM alfalfa can Roy Lewis be kept out of Measuring the pros and Are you leaving money on the Evaluating a bull isn’t Western Canada 20 cons of remote weighing 12 table by skipping soil tests? 17 straightforward 14 Improve performance with a sweet treat for your cattle — afternoon-cut forage Sugar concentration in forages peaks about 11 to 13 hours after sunrise — and can be as much as five per cent higher

end of the wilting period, you still had that By Jennifer Blair difference.” af staff But swathing reduced the sugar concen- tration, said Bélanger. ‘ ake hay while the sun shines’ is “Cutting alfalfa at the end of the day — good advice in more ways than between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. — without swath- M one, says a federal research sci- ing is the best way to maximize sugar con- entist. centration in wilted forage.” “There’s fairly strong evidence that shows, While the concentration of sugar was by increasing the sugar concentration in for- greater in some species, such as reed canary ages, you can improve the performance of grass, all forages showed an increase when ruminants,” said Gilles Bélanger, who spoke cut in the late afternoon — up to five per cent during a recent Beef Cattle Research Council in some cases, said Bélanger. webinar. “We did this research on a number of for- “If you want to increase sugar concentra- age species that are widely grown in Canada, tion in your forage, the easiest thing to do is and for all the forage species that we had, cut your forages in the afternoon.” there was an increase in sugar concentration Cattle performance has been linked to with the p.m. cutting.” how microbes function in the rumen, said Bélanger. And those microbes have a sweet [email protected] tooth. “The growth of the microbes depends on both the energy and the protein content of that forage,” he said. “If we increase the concentration of sugars in forages, we’ll have more energy available to the microbes.” The maximum sugar concentration is reached toward the end of the afternoon, 11 to 13 hours after sunrise, Bélanger found. “As you go through the day, there’s an increase in the total amount of sugars, and that increase comes mostly from the starch,” he said. “As the crop grows, it produces sug- ars faster than it can use them for its growth.” And the gain can be substantial. “The concentration of sugars can increase “Cutting alfalfa at the end of between two and four per cent — that is, it the day — between 4 p.m. and can go from six per cent in the morning to eight per cent at the end of the day — and the 6 p.m. — without swathing is maximum is reached toward the end of the the best way to maximize sugar afternoon and early evening,” said Bélanger. The afternoon-cut crop also maintained concentration in wilted forage.” its sugar concentration longer than its morn- ing-cut cousin even when left to lie in the field for a few days, he said. Gilles Bélanger “Throughout the wilting process, the dif- ference in sugar concentration in p.m. and You can please the palates of cows — and boost their feed performance — a.m. cutting was maintained so that at the by cutting forages later in the day. Photo: Thinkstock

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14192_Salford_1plus1equals3_10.25x3_AlbertaFarmer_Apr15.indd 1 3/13/15 11:27 AM ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 3 Want to earn a premium? Then take a page from Rolex’s playbook Heritage Angus Beef became one of Canada’s largest specialty beef producers by positioning itself as a luxury product

By Jennifer Blair af staff / ponoka

hat do BMWs and bison have in common? More W than you might think, says the CEO of Heritage Angus Beef. “Bison or high-end beef are no dif- ferent than high-end Scotch or Grey Goose Vodka or a Rolex,” Christoph Weder said at the Wildrose Bison Convention earlier this month. “Bison are not a commodity. They’re a luxury product. Produce it with the mindset that you’re pro- ducing the Rolex of proteins. “It’s about the story.” The story of Heritage Angus Beef began around the time drought hit in 2002, when Weder was a cattle producer and Alberta Agriculture beef specialist near Camrose. After a visit to the Peace Country, where drought was less of an issue, Weder and his family packed up and headed north to Rycroft. A week later, BSE was found on a farm down the road from his old operation. So Weder decided he needed a differentiated product and began raising beef without added hor- Premiums come from marketing your product as a luxury good, says Heritage Angus Beef CEO Christoph Weder (right), seen here at a Swiss food show mones or antibiotics. for hotels and catering companies last year. pHOTO: yoUTUBE “No one else was doing it at the time,” said Weder. “Everybody else One of “the biggest downfalls in was getting out of the beef industry, agriculture” is focusing entirely on but we used it as an opportunity to the cost of production. “Beyond no hormones expand and keep growing.” “We teach everybody ‘produce, Today, Heritage Angus Beef con- produce, produce,’ but really, at the and no antibiotics, sists of more than a dozen ranches end of the day, we’re producing food people want to know producing specialty beef with a products,” he said. long list of attributes: hormone and “We want to get paid for those where their food comes antibiotic free, GMO free, grass fed, food products, so we really need from — what’s behind it, environmentally friendly, Prairie to know about and concentrate on Wise certified, Halal certified, veri- marketing.” what’s done to it, who fied, audited, and fully traceable. At Heritage Angus Beef, Weder are the people that are “At Heritage Angus Beef, we’re works to be “in the bottom 20 per more than beef,” said Weder. “We’re cent on cost of production, but also raising it.” trying to build a luxury car that has in the top 20 per cent in marketing.” all the bells and whistles.” “To continue in agriculture, it’s A lot of its beef is exported to high- not just about lower cost of produc- Christoph end markets in Europe and it also tion. It’s also about getting higher Weder supplies Hero Certified Burgers, the value up the chain.” popular high-end burger chain with more than 50 locations in Ontario. The real deal And producers need to build true to look at your partners down the what’s behind it, what’s done to it, be worthy of that trust, by focusing Marketing matters value chains — “not ‘screw you’ road. who are the people that are raising on traceability, animal welfare, and Most producers concentrate on pro- chains,” he said. “If you think about doing a better it,” he said. environmental sustainability, said duction, but that’s only one piece “People talk about value chains, job of selling your product and find- The company lists its mem- Weder. of the puzzle, said Weder, who now but really, it’s one guy screwing the ing out who bought your product, ber ranches, most of which are in “When I go market beef, I can tell ranches in Hudson’s Hope, B.C. other guy over half the time,” he you could really make a huge differ- Alberta, on its website, which also you where it came from, how it was “We focus so much on cost of said. ence for your bottom line.” details how its cattle are raised. raised, when this or that was done production and finding ways to do “You need to look at cost of pro- But marketing has to be based on “One of the things that we have in to it,” he said. things cheaper and faster,” he said. duction, return on investment, and “real things, no smoke and mirrors,” agriculture is authenticity. Farmers “You need to have standards of “But there’s a whole other side of reasonable profit — for everybody he added. and ranchers, believe it or not, are production and be prepared to do the equation that not a lot of focus along the chain.” “Beyond no hormones and no still well trusted by most people in those things.” has been done on, and that’s mar- Value chains “don’t stop at your antibiotics, people want to know the city.” keting.” farm gate,” said Weder. “You’ve got where their food comes from — But livestock agriculture needs to [email protected]

Grow your knowledge and your business here Find hundreds of insightful articles, videos, podcasts and webinars from industry experts at fcc.ca. Bookmark: fcc.ca 4 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

EDITOR Glenn Cheater Phone: 780-919-2320 Email: [email protected] twitter: @glenncheater Reporters Alexis Kienlen, Edmonton 780-668-3121 Email: [email protected] Jennifer Blair, Red Deer 403-613-7573 Non-browning apple will make Email: [email protected] CIRCULATION manager Heather Anderson for an interesting market study Email: [email protected] PRODUCTION director Consumers are wary of genetically modified foods, Shawna Gibson Email: [email protected] but the Arctic apple offers them a tangible benefit Director of Sales Arctic apple, research is providing a prod- Consumers should realize that many Cory Bourdeaud’hui Email: [email protected] By Sylvain Charlebois uct with a noticeable benefit consumers genetically engineered produce are can bring home. already sold in Canada. Currently, genet- national ADVERTISING SALES t seems rotten apples may be on their This is not to suggest it is guaranteed ically engineered papayas, tomatoes, Jack Meli Phone: 647-823-2300 way out. A genetically engineered non- market success. It could go either way. The corn, potatoes, soybeans and squash are Email: [email protected] I browning apple, developed in Canada, product could contribute to consumers available for purchase. But of course, called Arctic, has recently been approved for gaining a new appreciation for the work given that GMO labelling is voluntary Local ADVERTISING sales sale in Canada and the United States. being done to improve agricultural pro- in Canada, consumers are unaware of Crystal McPeak Phone: 403-646-6211 or 403-360-3210 The regulatory bodies in both countries duce, and apple sales may increase. This the status of their foods while visiting Email: [email protected] feel the product is safe for human con- would be a welcome result since Canadian the produce aisle. With proper labelling sumption. With these apples projected to apples sales have plateaued in recent years. rules in Canada, which would capture classified ADVERTISING SALES hit store shelves sometime in 2017, many Consumption of apples in Canada per the essence of transparency and con- Sharon Komoski Phone: 1-888-413-3325 Fax: 204-944-5562 are now wondering how consumers will capita currently sits at around 11 kilos, a sumer education, there would be likely Email: [email protected] respond to this new product. Innovation decent number given that only the banana less uncertainty around the release of is certainly not new to the apple industry exceeds our dearly beloved apple, but most the Arctic apple. ADVERTISING Co-ordinator as consumers have had access to well over apples are grown here, not bananas. In other words, food products with Arlene Bomback Phone: 204-944-5765 Fax: 204-944-5562 7,000 varieties over the years. But this time, The sale of salads and sandwiches con- genetically engineered ingredients Email: [email protected] the very visible, non-browning feature taining apple pieces may also increase as should be labelled, full stop. makes this novelty an interesting market a result of this new non-browning feature. Regardless of whether or not the rules PUBLISHER study. These products could look more appealing change, many who care about that half- Lynda Tityk Email: [email protected] Obviously, the Arctic apple is intrinsically for longer periods, meaning less food waste. eaten apple left on the kitchen counter linked to the whole debate on GMOs. Many This could create a new market for apples. may be tempted to give this apple a try. Associate PUBLISHER/ consumers are wary of genetically modified Who hasn’t been guilty of throwing an apple On a final — but no less interesting — editorial director seeds used by farmers in their fields, some away, at one time or another, when it’s note, the Canadian-designed apple was John Morriss Email: [email protected] question the virtues of industrialized farm- become brown and repellant? actually approved by the USDA before ing and its so-called denaturalized model. On the other hand, there is a potential it got approved by Health Canada. This president Though there is evidence that genetically risk that consumers who are categorically certainly speaks to how incredibly slow Bob Willcox modified seeds have made agriculture opposed to genetic engineering will avoid our system is in evaluating new food Glacier FarmMedia [email protected] more efficient, skeptics remain. all apples, and the entire industry would be products, compared to the U.S. Things 204-944-5751 But seeding, farming and biotechnology affected as a result. In 2012, a survey in B.C., are getting better, but we need to get our are all vague, remote concepts for many where the apple was developed, suggested act together if innovation in Canadian The Alberta Farmer Express is published 26 times city slickers that 69 per cent of respondents were not agri-food is to be fully embraced. a year by Farm Business Communications. For many consumers, not just city dwell- comfortable with the non-browning phe- We acknowledge the financial support of the ers, it is challenging to appreciate how nom. Many describe GMOs essentially as Sylvain Charlebois is professor in the College Government of Canada through the Canada genetic engineering serves them, not Arctic the most potent cancer-causing agent in our of Business and Economics at the University of Periodical Fund of the Department of Guelph. Canadian Heritage. just agriculture. This time though, with the food supply. Those are strong words indeed. Publications mail agreement number 40069240 Canadian Postmaster: Send address changes and undeliverable addresses (covers only) to Circulation Dept., P.O. Box 9800, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3K7 Trade agreements are only half the battle ISSN 1481-3157 Push to make trade free and fair, but meanwhile assume it is neither Call 1-800-665-0502 or U.S. subscribers call Excerpts from testimony by Rory like CETA (Canada-EU Trade have today 150 job vacancies at the U.S., or I’d say particularly with McAlpine, senior vice-president of Agreement) does, can set us off in a our plant in Brandon. This means the U.S. Congress, in a bilateral free 1-204-944-5568 government and industry relations, wonderful new direction, but only we have stopped exporting certain trade relationship that I believe For more information on The Alberta Maple Leaf Foods to the Standing if we have gas in the tank. For busi- products to Asian markets, we needs a reset. It’s not a good feel- Farmer Express and subscriptions to other Senate Committee on Agriculture ness, this means we need competi- have diverted labour away from ing to be running a business in Farm Business Communications and Forestry, March 10. tive supply chains, including mod- the value-added activities that are 2015, with dozens of trucks cross- products, or visit our web site at: ern, world-scale plants. We need to most desired by our best custom- ing a border daily between two www.albertafarmexpress.ca ’m going to give you my three have labour. We need competent ers, and we can no longer grow our countries that seem able to find or email: half-truths and three whole financial institutions and so on. chilled pork business to Japan. We common cause in fighting global [email protected] I truths that emerge from this. In the government sector, we may not be able to meet our export terrorism but struggle to facilitate The first half-truth: Canada’s sec- need highly competent trade insti- goals in China. Taking advantage bilateral trade in pork bellies. It’s a At Farm Business Communications we have a tor depends on exports, and suc- tutions. They need to work closely of new trade agreements is out of sad feeling to actually imagine that firm commitment to protecting your privacy cess requires that we get the inter- with the domestic economic the question. retaliatory tariffs being applied to and security as our customer. Farm Business national market access priorities departments whose decisions And finally, my last half-truth: U.S. agri-food products could be Communications will only collect personal right. It’s true, but the whole truth directly impact our competitive Winning new export market access here in a few months because of the information if it is required for the proper functioning of our business. As part of our is that business success in Cana- situation. We need modern trans- should be the fundamental driver U.S. refusal to withdraw its own ver- commitment to enhance customer service, we da’s agri-food sector is achieved portation and telecommunica- of Canada’s trade policy. Well, I sion of a shoot-yourself-in-the-foot may share this personal information with other by growing profitable, sustain- tions. We need to knock down would say the whole truth is that policy — mandatory COOL. strategic business partners. For more information able market share in domestic and internal regulatory barriers that we need a sophisticated, strategic, In conclusion, Maple Leaf regarding our Customer Information Privacy Policy, export markets in the face of fierce harm our competitive position. hardball approach to trade policy, applauds the government for its write to: Information Protection Officer, Farm Business Communications, 1666 Dublin Ave., global competition and constantly both offensive and defensive. ambitious trade agenda and for Wpg., MB R3H 0H1 shifting market access barriers. Shooting yourself in the foot This mindset is particularly the tremendous support we get in Occasionally we make our list of subscribers Getting the market access priori- I’ve mentioned how several of important in the multilateral confronting complex trade risks available to other reputable firms whose products ties right is only half the battle. these factors affected our export context, particularly as the WTO and opportunities that we face. and services might be of interest to you. If you My second half-truth: Contin- activity in 2014. Most of them had shows no sign of progress and, The incredible work of Minister would prefer not to receive such offers, please contact us at the address in the preceding ued export success for Canada’s nothing to do with trade agree- in the TPP, it’s especially impor- Ritz is greatly appreciated, but we paragraph, or call 1-800-665-0502. agri-food sector will be achieved ments, trade missions or the press tant as regards agriculture market can never get complacent about The editors and journalists who write, contribute by new trade agreements with releases that go with them, but let access to Japan. If the U.S. were to our agri-food industry’s competi- and provide opinions to Alberta Farmer Express priority markets. The whole truth? me mention one that fits the clas- secure better terms of access than tive position or its trade perfor- and Farm Business Communications attempt to Well, new trade agreements are a sic definition of shooting yourself Canada enjoys, and in the absence mance… we have a serious deficit provide accurate and useful opinions, information necessary but not sufficient condi- in the foot — the government’s of a stand-alone Canada-Japan now in our agri-food or processed and analysis. However, the editors, journalists tion for continued export success. overreaching reforms to the Tem- agreement with a most-favoured- food trade balance. It now sits at and Alberta Farmer Express and Farm Business Communications, cannot and do not guarantee We also need world-leading trade porary Foreign Worker Program. nation clause such as Australia has negative $6.8 billion. We were the accuracy of the information contained in this capacity and competence both Because of the government’s concluded, 30 years of growing a significantly in a surplus 10 years publication and the editors as well as Alberta on the part of business and on the decisions, and despite a 10-year highly profitable chilled pork busi- ago. We can do better by deploy- Farmer Express and Farm Business Communications part of government. record of exceptional success in ness in Japan could be eliminated ing trade policies aimed at making assume no responsibility for any actions or Put simply, a new trade agree- recruiting highly productive for- decisions taken by any reader for this publication overnight for Maple Leaf Foods. global agri-food free and fair while based on any and all information provided. ment, even one that gives Canada eign workers and transitioning A further illustration of this third deploying tactics that assume it is a potential first-mover advantage them to permanent residency, we whole truth applies in dealing with neither. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 5

In praise of those who make our lives and communities great We are all makers of history and symbols of hope, and the contribution of women is invaluable and inspiring

sister Sonja is the one who me — you guessed it — with community events, clubs, and nesses and are huge contribu- By Brenda Schoepp calls to check in, buys flow- baking and other goodies. It associations. This is a lot of tors to economic stability in af columnist ers to brighten my day, bakes seems that regardless of where work! They are just as busy, or Canada. They are also CEOs for me, and ensures that we we have lived, we often come more so, as I. They have chil- and corporate owners, pho- am writing this on the eve always have the best deals home to bread, cakes, loaves dren, farm work, careers and tographers, artists, scientists, of International Women’s from her shopping in our and cookies. I am not a thin other obligations, and yet still ranchers, farmers, accoun- I Day and as we near the fridge. She listens with a car- girl and these acts of kindness have the time and energy to tants, homemakers, lawyers, celebration of the birth of ing ear and always attacks life ensure I stay that way! keep church and community and much more. They are my seventh granddaughter with joy and energy. On those The generosity and unself- events alive and enjoyable. wives, daughters, sisters and and remember the birth of rare occasions that we can sit ish giving of my friends is V o l u n t e e r s a m a z e m e grandmothers. With such a her great-great-grandmoth- in her brightly lit home, I relax overwhelming. When they because they give so much of diversity of interest and tal- er, Martha. I’m reflecting on knowing I am in a safe place. are not caring for my physical themselves. Although I love to ents, our world is culturally women I know, and those My long-suffering mom needs or rescuing me from go to the seniors’ home and and intellectually a better whom I do not, who contribute has made a noble attempt at some current disaster (includ- visit (there are indeed many place. It is said that we are all to our societies and our future. domesticating me and in that ing letting me use their new amazing men and women makers of history and I believe I am overcome with a sense of quest has bought every gad- chainsaw), they are listening there) I don’t do this enough. we are all symbols of hope. I appreciation of all women in get ever made for the kitchen. with openness and reply with I am grateful for those who know as I watch the women society. It is because of them Sadly for her, I would rather candour and truth. My friends do this on a regular schedule around me I am inspired and that I am able to do what I do. sort cattle. My kitchen does are a great strength and I am as their presence brings an grateful. My schedule does not permit not know me. humbled to be associated with appreciated light into the lives To all women who have gone me to engage at the level that I Despite this inability to bake such resourceful and dedi- of those who need care or visi- ahead and paved the way to a desire. I am often absent, sit- (which will be a lifelong afflic- cated women. tation, guidance or help, cul- better future; to women who ting in another airport, driv- tion) she has taught me well I am also surrounded by ture or outings. I congratulate are making our lives and com- ing down a new road, or sim- and I know the value of prepa- women who I don’t know well, women like my daughter who munities great; and to those ply too tired to contribute at ration and keep a neat home, but whom I wish to honour in with an all-female volunteer women of the future who will a high level to the community understand reuse and recycle, this column. team raised and then built a add to the stability, colour and in which I live. There is a farm and am trained to select lovely They are the nurses and quarter-million-dollar play- culture, economy and pros- to run, books to do, travel to fabric. In my younger years, doctors at our local hospital ground for their school and perity of our country, I salute arrange, documents to read, she cared for my children and and the support staff at our the surrounding community, you. Thank you for making our and calls to return. I chose I have never heard her say that efficient clinic. They are the ensuring all ages and abilities world a better place. this life and will do the best I I could not do what I set out ladies who take care of the had access to play. We would can — every day — but I am to achieve. church and the community not be the communities of car- Brenda Schoepp is a farmer only a small part of the greater My neighbours have helped hall, ensuring that families ing, loving people that we are from Alberta who works as whole. And the greater whole me with calving and feeding, have a place of worship and an international mentor and without all these volunteers. motivational speaker. She can is composed of the support of flooded basements, downed play. I always appreciate the S t a t i s t i c a l l y , w e k n o w be contacted through her website women around me. power lines, and all the trials women who do the cooking for women own the majority of www.brendaschoepp.com. All rights My “not-so-secret” secret of the farm. The ladies surprise large crowds and co-ordinate small and medium-size busi- reserved. Brenda Schoepp 2014

A GMO by any other name The fallout from would smell sweeter California’s ‘Prop 2’ lagging and that is creating sup- The terminology used to describe By Brad Brinkworth, ply issues. modern plant breeding gives it a bad name Meristem Media The shift has been described as “a shock” that is “scrambling” Now what? the egg industry. Prices have risen Even when people do not have breeding practices been That’s the question facing many sharply but early indications are By Sandi Knight know what a GMO is they called into question. Is it pos- both in and around livestock consumers are willing to pay for believe they should be feared sible the name contributed to industry circles as California the “welfare-enhanced” product. oogle reveals a pletho- and avoided. For an example, the skepticism? Proposition 2, the infamous animal The egg industry, like all major ra of ideas for “How to go to YouTube and search for Would have ‘precision plant welfare legislation, has finally been food production sectors, crosses G choose a name.” It has “What’s a GMO?” the Jimmy breeding’ better suited the pro- implemented. The legislation, state lines and it is difficult to suggestions for your baby, Kimmel take on the subject. cess? Would have it instilled first developed in 2008 and hotly implement a patchwork of state- your dog, your business, your So instead of technology mov- confidence instead of fear? debated since, targets veal crates, by-state requirements. In the wake blog, and more. ing forward to provide solutions Enthusiasm instead of activ- poultry cages, and sow gestation of Prop 2 and other similar state Have you ever wondered to drought, famine and disease, ism? We will never know, but as stalls. initiatives, there have been efforts what the discussion would it sits on a shelf while a heated the #farmtofood conversation There’s definitely a sense of in recent years by United Egg Pro- be around food and agricul- public debate ensues. continues to grow, perhaps we waiting for the other shoe to drop, ducers to work with adversaries ture if plant scientists sought But where would we be if a should re-examine the termi- but many industry fears — rang- such as the Humane Society of the similar advice when naming different name had been cho- nology we use and the names ing from the specific production United States toward workable genetically modified organ- sen? we choose. changes to myriad ripple effects on uniform national approaches. This isms (GMOs)? GMOs are a precise exten- If we are to bridge the gap logistics, branding and verification has been lauded by some as for- They’re immersed in sci- sion of conventional plant between science, industry for the food system — have sub- ward thinking, while lambasted as ence, their everyday field, breeding, changing only one to and consumer, care should be sided, in part because of the long a sellout by others. and the terminology of their three genes instead of 10,000 to taken to ensure our language is lead-up period that has allowed Will these efforts be enough to everyday language. “Trans- 800,000. It takes less than five building bridges of understand- time to prepare for change. help California producers make genic plant breeding” and years to develop a new variety ing not fences of fear. A name One area where “Prop 2” is the transition toward a new, sus- “biotech crops” are also used as opposed to five to 30 years. needs to be representative and creating the greatest initial stir is tainable future? Advocates and to describe the breeding meth- It is a straightforward, accurate, descriptive but should also be the egg sector, where new space critics on all sides of the debate will ods, but the terminology has timely and effective process. clear and concise to all. requirements for laying birds be watching closely in the months created fear, apprehension Humans have been manipulat- are nearly twice the previous ahead. and misunderstanding for ing plant genetics for more than Sandi Knight farms near standard. Most producers have From the NewStream farm animal many consumers. 10,000 years but only recently Macdonald, Man. made the switch but some are care newsletter, www.meristem.com 6 Off the front March 30, 2015 • Albertafarmexpress.ca

DRY } from page 1 East-central and northeastern “These areas have dried out Alberta are also a concern, he more quickly because they’ve “I’m not going to jump out said, with low subsoil moisture had above-normal tempera- and say that 2015 is going to be a levels after being dry most of tures and not very much snow- drought year because it’s a little last year. Fortunately, there was fall this winter,” said Burnett. bit early yet to establish what a heavier-than-average snowfall “Those areas are also vulner- the dominant spring pattern is along the Alberta/Saskatchewan able to dryness, especially in going to be in the Prairies. Just border, which should offer a bit the spring.” because we’re dry here in March, of relief. While it’s too early to sound doesn’t mean that we’re going to At this point, though, it’s too the drought alarm, producers in see shortfalls in April and May as soon to tell if the soil moisture lev- much of the province are going well, which certainly would raise els will be a blessing — or a curse. to need timely rains. alarm bells.” “When we get into that seed- While not having adequate ing window, we’re going to need moisture for germination is a to see a pickup in moisture here worry, Burnett is looking deeper. “Just because we’re dry to get the crops germinated and “Subsoil deficits are more con- the ground in good shape in cerning because they could really here in March, doesn’t those southern growing areas,” impact the yields if we go through said Burnett. a hot, dry period in the summer- mean that we’re going The dryness is linked to the time,” he said. “Most of our sum- to see shortfalls in April weak El Niño in the Pacific. mers do have one to three weeks “The influence of this weather of hot, dry weather that can cause and May.” pattern is generally in the win- stress to the crops.” ter months and it starts to wane In southern Alberta, there’s in February and March in terms “pretty good soil moisture going Bruce Burnett of influencing the weather pat- into spring,” said Ralph Wright, tern,” he said. “So again, we’re manager of Alberta Agriculture’s probably going to see a change agro-meteorology division. coming up and we’ll see how it “It looks like south of Red settles. If it settles into a dry pat- Deer, most places are well above “Good soil moisture this time tern, obviously we’re going to average for soil moisture for this of year may be a bad thing be concerned about drought.” time of year,” he said. The situ- if there’s a really, really wet The warmer-than-average ation changes north of Edmon- spring,” said Wright. “Moisture winter and lack of snow will ton, where soil moisture levels is like a bank account. If you’ve likely tempt many out into their are below average. got lots of moisture, it’s generally fields early — a sharp contrast “But generally speaking, we’re a good thing because you’re able to the delays in seeding experi- under above-average snow packs to store it in the soil. enced in the last couple of years in those areas, so we don’t really “But it could be a mixed bless- because of wet conditions. know what soil moisture is going ing. The story hasn’t been writ- “I think farmers generally wel- The soil moisture situation looks worse in the north than it likely to be like.” ten yet.” come this earlier start to spring, is, said Alberta Agriculture’s Ralph Wright. “It’s under snow. The Peace Country is the biggest but certainly we’re going to snow still has to melt and recharge the soil moisture.” worry. It’s been dry for several Hotter than L.A. need some rain in those areas Graphic: Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development years running and, once again, Drought is no stranger in south- that I outlined in order to get Mother Nature disappointed this ern Alberta, and the area has the crops off to a good start,” winter. seen lots of double-digit days Burnett said. “We didn’t see the type of in the last two months, includ- But producers across the snowfall that you would nor- ing a couple in January where province will be playing a “wait- end of the dry season throughout can only guess what’s going to mally see in that area,” said Lethbridge was as warm as Los and-see game” for a little while most of the province,” he said. happen in June and July.” Burnett. “When you get into a Angeles. The unseasonable yet, said Wright. “We’ve still got April and May to persistent pattern of dryness, it shirt-sleeve weather has dried “We’re only at the tail end of go before we see how things are [email protected] is a cause for concern.” out topsoil. March, and March marks the shaping up, and even then, we [email protected]

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Client: BrettYoung Publication: Alberta Farmer Express Agency: ON Communication Inc Project: Forage Ad Size: 10.25” x 7.75” Agency Contact: Jen Grozelle Date: Feb 16, 2015 Bleed: N/A Telephone: 519-434-1365 Ext.220 Designer: JM Colour: CMYK Email: [email protected] Albertafarmexpress.ca • March 30, 2015 7

TRUST } from page 1 times more important in building public are not going to be suc- trust than competency. cessful.” “My argument would be that Arnot recommends people in the Internet is to food as television agriculture talk about their values The Food Babe was to the Vietnam War because and look at it through that lens, Arnot held up one of the most it has fundamentally changed rather than putting the emphasis polarizing critics of modern agri- the access to information,” Arnot on sharing facts. culture as someone who farmers told a packed room of producers, can learn from. The Food Babe — and industry leaders, and government Watch your language Vani Hari — a.k.a. The Food her unsubstantiated officials. It’s especially important to choose Babe — was just named by Time allegations about food your words carefully, as the wrong magazine as one of the 30 most “toxins” — drives many A skeptical public language can undermine your influential people on the Inter- in agriculture up the wall, But there’s been other big changes argument, he said. net. Despite having no training in but an expert on building — skepticism of all institutions is For example, talking about food science, Hari has become an trust in the food system the new cultural norm and people economic returns suggests the international bestselling author says she offers lessons no longer communicate the way motivation is financial and self- and attracted more than 85,000 on how to connect with they once did, he said. interested, which erodes trust. Twitter followers by railing against consumers. The Internet plays into that, Giving consumers information what she calls poisons in food. too. People look for information about science and economics may Although the lack of science aligned with their values and use increase knowledge, but it will do behind her claims infuriates farm- it to buttress their beliefs rather nothing to influence how they feel ers and others in the food industry, than looking to authority figures. or what they believe, said Arnot. she appeals to consumer values And there’s no shortage of self- It’s better to demonstrate that because she positions herself as appointed experts who don’t farmers want the same things as an ordinary, concerned citizen, back up their opinions with facts consumers. said Arnot. or credible research. “Be open and transparent; To connect with consumers Arnot pointed to the handling of welfare, the environment, and Like it or not, said Arnot, these answer and ask questions; and in that way, advocates for farm- the Maple Leaf listeria crisis as an providing healthy food to families. people often hold more sway than admit you have more to learn,” he ing need to be seen as a trusted example of a job well done because “Skepticism is so much bet- authority figures. said. “Don’t abandon science — resource, he said. Part of that the company was open and trans- ter than indifference,” he said. But there are strategies that but focus on talking about values involves sharing both positive parent right from the start. “Embrace that as an opportunity people in agriculture can adopt in and ethics instead. and negative information, even “People want us to be forthcom- to have a conversation about who order to maintain social licence “People are much more likely if the latter might turn off some ing, not just honest,” he said. we are and what we do. Don’t and public trust, he added. to make decisions based on what consumers. But make sure the Finally, view consumers’ worry become defensive. Skepticism is “People in agriculture need to be they feel or what they believe, information you put out is “easy and fears about the food system as the fuel for scientific discovery.” champions of transparency in an rather than what they know. to find (and) helpful for making an opportunity to show that you [email protected] age where anyone who has a cell- That’s why efforts to educate the informed decisions.” T:8.125”care about things such as animal phone is a cinematographer,” he said. “Increasing the transparency has the greatest effect on those who are most skeptical about who we are and what we do.”

“The Internet is to food as television was to the Vietnam War because it has fundamentally changed the access to information.”

Charlie Arnot

Social licence Trust is the primary driver of T:10” social licence — the popular term for having public support for an activity. Trust is developed in three ways, said Arnot. Having the support of family, friends and experts is the first ele- ment. The second is competency, which includes technical capac- ity and science. But farmers tend to think that the public doesn’t understand the science in agri- culture and so wrongly believe the “just the facts” approach is enough to win the day, he said. “The assumption is that if we give them more facts, they’ll be more rational and come to our The complete solution. Grass and broadleaf weed control for wheat and barley, no tank mixing required. side of the argument,” said Arnot. For more information, please visit: BayerCropScience.ca/Tundra “If they haven’t come to our side of the argument, it must be because we haven’t given them the right NOW SAVE facts.” This approach doesn’t work because shared values — the $1.00 third element — are actually PER ACRE more important in building trust, WITH NEW 2015 PRICING he said. His organization has surveyed Save up to 17% more with the 2015 BayerValue program. 6,000 Americans, asking them questions about farming, food BayerCropScience.ca or 1 888-283-6847 or contact your Bayer CropScience representative. Always read and follow label directions. Tundra® is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group. Bayer CropScience is a member of CropLife Canada. C-59-03/15-10307870-E safety, sustainability and other food-related issues. It found that shared values are three to five

BCS10307870_Tundra_104.REV1.indd None Tundra Ad insert Mar 30 2015 Lynn.Skinner 8.125” x 10” Alex.VanDerBreggen 1 8.125” x 10” Noel.Blix GRACoL None Mike.Meadus 100% None 1 Monica.VanEngelen Production:Volumes:Product...S10307870_Tundra_104.REV1.indd Bayer Crop Science 10307870 Helvetica Neue LT Std Alberta Farmer 3-20-2015 4:38 PM -- 3-20-2015 4:38 PM -- Mia.Yung -- Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black -- -- 8 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Basic info from cattle database will remain free But new owners of BIXS also need to create revenue now that government funding has dried up

plagued by technical issues and which has decided to use BIXS By Alexis Kienlen slow uptake — with ViewTrak for its verified sustainable beef af staff agreeing to revamp it and make “You can also go to the Internet pilot project. it more useful to producers, feed- “It’s not the technical part of attle producers will be able lots, and other players in the beef and buy things. That’s your BIXS that could be the holdup,” to access basic data from value chain. choice. We want to create those said Lau. “It’s actually the defi- C the now privatized Beef The two partners are still work- nition of verified sustainable InfoXchange System (BIXS), but ing on the funding model, and no choices.” beef. We’re confident we can may have to pay for some types final decisions have been made, meet the tech needs as long as of information, says the head of said Lau. But ViewTrak is now we have enough time to meet the company. paying the bills as the govern- Hubert Lau the definition of verified sus- “BIXS is totally voluntary, just ment funding which created BIXS tainable beef.” like the Internet,” said Hubert has run out. Lau also said ViewTrak has Lau, president and CEO of The priority at the moment is sold its herd management BIXSco. “You can use the Internet meeting with ranchers, industry software to a co-operative in and do all kinds of things, and it associations, packers, and others Ontario because it didn’t want doesn’t cost you any money. But in the industry in a bid to bring to tell you how to do it, or force It will also work seamlessly BIXS to be viewed as a competi- you can also go to the Internet them on board. you to do something. I’m here with the Canadian Cattle Iden- tor to other cattle software pro- and buy things. That’s your There has been a good recep- to enable you to do more. And tification Agency’s database, he viders. choice. We want to create those tion from industry players, but the way we do that is by opening said. BIXSco wants to see veterinar- choices.” cattle producers still have many more data flows.” “BIXS didn’t have enough ians and breeders participating BIXSco was formed when the questions, said Lau. One of the most frequently technical resources to work in the database and is consid- Canadian Cattlemen’s Associa- “When producers ask me why asked questions from producers with the CCIA resources, so that ering how it might create data tion struck a partnership deal they should support BIXS, I tell is whether they will still be able to caused a whole host of integra- that others, such as auctions or with Edmonton-based ViewTrak them our goal is to create a larger use their herd management soft- tion issues that caused prob- government agencies, would be Technologies earlier this winter. market for you, so you have the ware, and Lau said the revamped lems for users,” he said. willing to pay for, he added. The association contributed the ability to do more for your busi- BIXS will work with the programs The company is also work- cattle database — which has been ness,” he said. “I’m not there producers are using. ing with McDonald’s Canada, [email protected]

Year-end values have a big impact on inventory Breeding stock can have an especially big effect on the value of inventory

be the real case, the farmer COLD. SMALL. LATE. Alberta Agriculture who just carried on with HOT. EARLY. and Rural Development no other changes would release show large fluctuations in BIG. accrued income due only to When it comes to doing an this adjustment. If a histori- accrual, an Alberta Agricul- cal review is being done, it ture and Rural Development might be more meaning- specialist says it’s important ful to record the per-unit to remember that a change value of breeding stock the in value for an inventory same each year so as not to item can have a dramatic adversely affect the accrued effect in calculating the income calculation. The accrual adjustments. income would still include As an example, if you an appropriate adjustment had 500 cows with a value for a change in numbers of of $2,000 each on Dec. breeding stock.” 31, 2014, and that value This may also be applica- increased to $2,500 each at ble to other inventories such the end of 2015, there would as feeds or grains but nor- SPRAY be an accrued gain due to mally has less of an effect, inventory valuation increase said Dehod. WHEN of $250,000. Conversely if “If you do not have the the value of those cows was actual market values of $2,500 at the end of 2014 the commodities, you can YOU WANT and were valued back at record an average value $2,200 each at the end of each year for the specific IN THE 2015 for some reason, the commodity and then again, adjustment would show a the accrual adjustment will CONDITIONS loss of $150,000 due strictly only be affected by the vol- to the drop in value. ume of product.” YOU’VE GOT. “This issue is most preva- For more info, go to www. lent when valuing the breed- agriculture.alberta.ca/farm- ing stock,” said farm finan- manager and enter ‘Income cial specialist Rick Dehod. and Expense Statement’ in “Although this could easily the search box. You’re Good to GoTM with ArylexTM Active. • Spray when you want with new PixxaroTM or ParadigmTM • Two revolutionary Group 4 herbicides with Arylex Active Watch your profits grow! • Ultimate broadleaf weed control performance in wheat and barley • The productivity and convenience you need in the conditions you’ve got Advertise with AFe Classifieds GO Go to dowagro.ca or call the Solutions Center at 1-800-667-3852. Place your ad today call TM Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow. 1-800-665-1362 0115-41246 AFE Albertafarmexpress.ca • March 30, 3015 9 Forage growers, get your seed lined up soon Alberta forage growers can expect limited seed supplies and high prices for almost all forage types this upcoming spring

very high this year on pretty much all the By Jennifer Blair grasses,” said Kerschbaumer. af staff / olds It’s the same story with timothy and “We’re advising anybody who’s brome grasses — especially for meadow ad news for forage growers: Seed brome. planning on doing any reseeding is in short supply and prices are “Acres are way down, yields are down. to go to your seed supplier and B “through the roof” heading into We had poor yields in 2014, so numbers spring. are going to be even less again this year,” get your orders in early.” “The prices reflect the supply,” said she said. Heather Kerschbaumer of Golden Acre Smooth brome is “pretty much a mirror Seeds in Fairview. image” of meadow brome. Heather Kerschbaumer “We’re advising anybody who’s plan- “In spite of the high prices, we haven’t ning on doing any reseeding to go to your seen a huge planting of brome grass,” she seed supplier and get your orders in early.” said. “A lot of the growers who grew brome Forage seed acres in Alberta are “way in the past have not gone back to growing down,” said Kerschbaumer, who spoke at brome. “It doesn’t seem like that high price has the Alberta Forage Industry Network AGM “The acres are still falling, and there’s made people too excited to be planting in mid-March. very little carry-over anymore.” alsike.” “High grain prices a few years ago caused Sweet clover is also “in extreme short Slender wheat grass is “the one thing a lot of the growers to pull out their forage supply,” she said. there isn’t a shortage of,” she added. seed crops and put them into canola and “Prices are higher than they’ve been as “The acres are higher than they were in wheat. It takes a few years to get those far as I can remember, and I’ve been in the previous few years. They went up again acres back again.” the business for about 30 years,” said Ker- this year from where they were in 2013,” As a result, “there’s going to be a lot of schbaumer. she said. shortages of seed this spring,” she said. That shortage will translate into “Prices on slender wheat grass have Supplies of meadow brome as well as smooth “Even though grain and canola prices have increased demand for red clover. been very stable the last few years, so brome are both tight this year. Photo: AAFC dropped back, the grass acres are still slow “When they can’t get sweet clover, they you’re not going to see a huge increase in coming back.” start looking for alternatives,” she said. prices in slender wheat grass.” “For anybody who wants seed, I wouldn’t Forage grass acres, including crested “Prices on red clover are not exorbitant No matter what type of forage they’re advise waiting until the last minute. Oth- wheat grass, have taken a hit in the past yet, and there still is seed available, but planning on seeding this spring, producers erwise, you might not be able to get what two years. it’s also in short supply.” will need to get their seed lined up soon, you want.” “There seems to be a shortage of all Alsike supplies are faring somewhat bet- or they could be out of luck, said Kersch- grasses in general, and the prices are ter, but the price is still high. baumer. [email protected]

Farmers urged to plant certified

HOT. COLD. SMALL. EARLY. LATE. flaxseed The Flax Council of Canada says the goal BIG. of removing Triffid from the system is getting closer

staff “We are currently f seeding flax this spring, b u y c e r t i f i e d s e e d . seeing extremely low I That’s the message from levels but, although the Flax Council of Canada. Certified seed is free of we are close to our Triffid, the genetically mod- objective, as long as ified flax found in Canadian flax exports in 2009. Even farm-saved seed is SPRAY though only trace amounts were found, the contami- being used at all, we WHEN nation disrupted Canadian cannot discontinue flax exports to the European Union — one of Canada’s the sampling and YOU WANT main flax customers. testing procedure.” Soon after, the council IN THE began asking farmers to test farm-saved seed to ensure CONDITIONS it was Triffid free before YOU’VE GOT. planting. Because of farmers’ co- Don Kerr operation, Canada’s flax industry is getting closer to its goal of eliminating all traces of Triffid from the

TM TM system, the council said in and planting seed for the You’re Good to Go with Arylex Active. a news release. presence of Triffid, the

TM TM “We are currently seeing council said. A description • Spray when you want with new Pixxaro or Paradigm extremely low levels but, of sampling procedures can • Two revolutionary Group 4 herbicides with Arylex Active although we are close to our be found on the flax coun- objective, as long as farm- cil’s website. • Ultimate broadleaf weed control performance in wheat and barley saved seed is being used at “Please note that some • The productivity and convenience you need in the conditions you’ve got all, we cannot discontinue flax buyers will only accept GO the sampling and testing test results from certain Go to dowagro.ca or call the Solutions Center procedure,” Flax Council labs,” the council said. at 1-800-667-3852. of Canada president Don “Check with the flax coun- Kerr said. cil for the complete list of Farmers should continue approved testing labs (at) TM Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow. to test harvested flaxseed www.flaxcouncil.ca.” 0115-41246 AFE 10 NEWS » Markets MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Producers wanted Russian harvest may disappoint for Open Farm Days Russia’s 2015 grain crop may fall short of official forecasts as the condition of winter grains in some key growing regions has deteriorated since last year. Russia has been pushing farmers to Organizers of Alberta Open Farm Days are looking for producers to be hosts this year. More than 60 harvest a large crop this year, after a near-record 105 million tonnes in 2014, to cover domestic farms and ranches signed up last year, and farmers who are considering being part of this year’s demand and replenish state stocks after the ruble’s plunge spurred exports. But the harvest event can get more information and see videos of past participants at www.albertafarmdays.ca. The will be in the 70- to 85-million-tonne range, said an official with agribusiness division of a main event is on Aug. 23 when farms and ranches are open to the public at no cost. Some producers conglomerate owned by oligarch Oleg Deripaska, a confidant of President Vladimir Putin. The opt to also participate in the culinary event, on Aug. 22, teaming with chefs to create farm-to-table official noted farmers are having trouble buying imported seed and fertilizer. — Reuters dining experiences. Tickets and reservations are required for most of the culinary events. — Staff

Lack of fresh news keeps canola in holding pattern Weather uncertainty offers support to wheat futures

By Phil Franz-Warkentin

CE Futures Canada canola contracts traded within a $10 range during the I week ended March 20, but finished Friday’s session relatively in line with where they were seven days earlier. That rangebound activity could be the norm, at least until spring seeding, as canola chops around awaiting some fresh fundamental news. The May canola contract settled at $460.90 per tonne on March 20, right in the middle of its well-established $450- to $470-per-tonne range. A break to either side would get the ball rolling one way or the other from a chart perspective, but it will likely take an outside influence to trig- ger such a move. The two most likely catalysts, in the short term, are the Canadian dollar or the CBOT (Chicago Board of Trade) soy complex. The Canadian currency saw a couple of volatile days during the week, climbing a penny higher one day, only to drop right back down the next, then jumping back again by Friday. Canadian dollar activity was largely a function of movements in the U.S. currency, which was reacting to state- ments from the country’s Federal Reserve. Currency analysts remain of the opinion that a weaker bias in the Canadian dollar is more likely than any sustained strength, at least relative to its U.S. counterpart. How- ever, given Canada’s close economic rela- tionship with the U.S., the Canadian dollar still remains strong relative to other world currencies. On a more fundamental level, move- ments in the CBOT soy complex will have a more direct influence on canola, with cur- rency exchange adjustments affecting the visible price more than the actual value. Soybean futures ended narrowly mixed during the week, after seeing some choppy activity of their own. Attention in the soy market remains fixed on the South Amer- ican harvest. While supplies from Brazil and Argentina are expected to be bearish overall, logistics issues in the region do Canola contracts seem stuck in the $10 range as the market awaits some fresh fundamental news. Photo: Thinkstock have the potential to provide support on occasion. U.S. planting conditions will also become more of a factor going forward, slightly, due to dryness, and will continue with early expectations calling for record- to be watched closely. large planted area this year. Ongoing uncertainty over wheat produc- For three-times-daily market reports from Resource News U.S. wheat futures were stronger during tion and the export potential from Russia the week, moving up across the board as and Ukraine also remain background fac- International, visit “ICE Futures Canada updates” chart-based buying provided some sup- tors in the wheat market, with conflicting port. North American wheat does remain news from the region keeping the futures at www.albertafarmexpress.ca. relatively expensive in the global mar- on edge. ketplace, but there are also still enough weather concerns in a number of wheat- Phil Franz-Warkentin writes for Commodity producing regions of the world to provide News Service Canada, a Winnipeg company some caution in the futures. In the U.S., specializing in grain and commodity market winter wheat crop ratings have declined reporting. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 11

Canadian rough-legged hawk flax prices still strong enough to increase acreage New-crop bids are down, but still higher than a year ago

By Terryn Shiells, Commodity News Service Canada

Canadian flax prices are still holding, and strong enough to encourage an acreage increase this A rough-legged hawk finds the perfect perch on a weathered shed near Millarville, Alta. With spring closing in, raptors are returning to the fields. spring despite concerns Photo: Wendy Dudley about slowing demand. B:8.125” Prices have held up T:8.125” even as shipping oppor- tunities have started to S:8.125” slow down, as there’s a standoff between buyers and sellers, and supplies remain tight, said Mike Jubinville of ProFarmer Canada. Western Canadian old-crop flax prices were about $12.50 to $14.50 per bushel, delivered to the elevator as of March 18, Prairie Ag Hotwire data shows. New-crop values ranged from about $11.50 to $12.50 per bushel. Those prices are down slightly from month-ago From flag to head. levels, but up sharply compared to a year ago, Who says you can’t be in two places at once? and should still lead to an With the wide window of application and flexible increase in acreage. rate options of Folicur® EW fungicide, it means Farmers could plant you simply have more time to work with. as many as two million acres to flax this spring, Folicur EW continues to provide exceptional Jubinville said — a sharp value for cereal growers who want long-lasting increase from last year’s protection from a broad spectrum of diseases, 1.56 million acres. including fusarium head blight and the most “The price of flax can NOW SAVE fluctuate and it’s depen- dangerous leaf diseases. dent on the demand,” said $2.25 * Don Kerr, president of the For more information, visit: PER ACRE Flax Council of Canada. WITH NEW 2015 PRICING “Some of the reports I BayerCropScience.ca/Folicur read are indicating that B:10” S:10” the demand side might T:10” start to diminish a little bit, and how that affects the price I think will determine what happens going forward.” Jubinville predicted prices would have a hard time moving higher due to competition from Europe’s new crop that will be harvested in July. If weather conditions remain favourable, and acreage does increase as much as expected, sup- plies could become very large. But new-crop prices have already started to reflect the large Canadian production prospects, Jubinville said. Even if this year’s crop is very large, there will likely be a home for most of the production as demand is coming from the U.S., China and Europe. “We expect the demand is going to drive the price, and the price is going to BayerCropScience.ca or 1 888-283-6847 or contact your Bayer CropScience representative. drive the production,” Always read and follow label directions. Folicur® is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group. Bayer CropScience is a member of CropLife Canada. *Compared to 2014 SRP at the 200 mL/ac. rate C-50-03/15-10287619-E said Kerr.

BCS10287619_Folicur_103.REV1.indd None Folicur EW - Insert Mar 30 2015 Lynn.Skinner 8.125” x 10” Alex.VanDerBreggen 1 8.125” x 10” Noel.Blix NEWSPAPER None Mike.Meadus 100% None 4 Monica.VanEngelen Production:Volumes:Product...10287619_Folicur_103.REV1.indd Bayer Crop Science BCS10287619 Helvetica Neue LT Std Alberta Farmer 3-20-2015 5:46 PM -- 3-20-2015 5:46 PM -- Mia.Yung -- Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black -- -- 12 news » livestock MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

Poor hay causing concern Confused about wildlife Up to one-half of Alberta hay supplies may be of lower quality, says a provincial compensation? beef and forage specialist. “Protein levels in a lot of hay that was cut late or damaged by rain over the summer, is testing 25 to 30 per cent lower than normal,” Alberta Beef Producers has created a road map for accessing compensation programs for carnivore, ungulate, and said Barry Yaremcio, noting that skinny cows have serious problems during calving. bird damage to livestock and crops. The system can be “rather convoluted” as there is one process for hay and crop “I’m getting calls on a regular basis and I’d say about 25 to 50 per cent of the hay damage, and another for predator damage (but not for coyotes), shot livestock and waterfowl damage prevention. this year is of lower quality than what the physical appearance will show.” Feed As well, Alberta Financial Services Corporation, the provincial Fish & Wildlife branch, and Alberta Conservation testing is well worth the cost, said Yaremcio, who also recommends consulting a Association handle different parts of the process. For a guide to the process, go to www.albertabeef.org, click on vet or fellow producer if there’s a potential problem. — AARD release News, and then the March 6 edition of Grass Routes. — ABP release

U of A students take the stress out of stepping on the scale — for bison, that is University of Alberta students hoping to reduce handling stress in bison through a remote weighing system using automatic platform scales

By Jennifer Blair af staff / ponoka “There’s less stress on tepping on a scale doesn’t the animals from less have to be stressful — for handling and restraint, S your bison, at least. “Just like in people, when and a low-stress, low- bison step on a scale, sometimes hands-on environment they have quite a harsh stress response,” said Josh Perryman, can eliminate trim a University of Alberta student who spoke at the Wildrose Bison losses or give you a Convention earlier this month. Grade A carcass.” Bison are notoriously flighty animals, and reducing stress when handling them is the main Elyse Semchuck goal of a project by Perryman and fellow students Elyse Sem- chuck and Nicky Lansink. The trio is working with the Bison Producers of Alberta to study a The installation and main- remote bison-weighing system tenance of one system would and develop a guidebook based cost around $12,000 in the on their findings. first year, while the total cost “Bison haven’t been domes- benefits would be around ticated for very long, so there $6,200 for a herd of 100 bison. are setbacks when handling But once installed, the only the animals,” said Semchuck. cost will be for maintenance “The stress adaptation in the and ongoing weight monitor- bison can be a problem when ing, roughly $1,200 a year, they’re in enclosed spaces, so depending on how often the the current system of squeeze bison are being weighed. chutes can cause problems, like “If you’ve got two cycles bruising and depreciation of the of bison going through, you animal.” should be able to pay off your And that has a direct impact scale with just the value of the on the bottom line, she said. benefits,” said Lansink. “We know that, per animal and Bison need to walk over this automatic platform scale in order to get to food and water. And the increase in meat per stressful event, it can lose up Photo: Courtesy Dr. Jayson Galbraith quality using a low-stress to 10 pounds over a week. That weighing system is “extremely means more days on farm to Testing underway “If the bison have a nutrition- “The bison moved freely over important,” she said. gain that weight back.” Working with bison producer ally complete diet, they might the scale and appeared to be “In order to maximize our But bison producers still need Ivan Smith, the students have not want minerals, and then they comfortable with it,” said Per- profits, it’s important that we a way to weigh their animals. installed two Tru-Test Alleyway might not stand on the scale,” he ryman. get that A-grade carcass,” Lan- “Not being able to weigh platform scales at Big Bend Bison said. sink said. “Stressed animals your animals can be problem- Ranch near Penhold. The walk-over platform, on Cost and benefits are more prone to becoming atic because bison require feed “We have a platform in front of the other hand, lies between the But there’s a cost to installing a dark-cutters, and a dark-cut- appropriate for their stage and a mineral trough and a walk-over bison’s feed and water, making system like this, said Lansink, ter will not receive an A or B rate of growth,” said Semchuck. platform between where the feed it more likely that they will step who presented some cost esti- grade.” “You’re going to maximize prof- is and where the water’s located,” onto the scale. mates at the meeting. By using a remote weigh- its by sending the animals away said Perryman, adding that the “In the walk-over scenario, “The main cost of something ing system, rather than put- at the optimal finishing weight.” bison are monitored with trail there will be more traffic going like this is the cost of the installa- ting bison through a squeeze And remote weighing systems cameras and RFID readers near between the areas just because tion of the scale, the scale itself, chute, producers can improve using automatic scales could be the platforms. the drive for water would be the RFID reading software, and meat quality while reducing the answer. So far, the trio has found that strong,” said Perryman. “It’s also the maintenance of the system,” handling-related stress. “Automatic scales have been the bison will stand still on a plat- open so the bison aren’t going she said, adding cost benefits “You’re just that much more used in other species because form in front of a mineral trough into an enclosed area, standing include decreased labour, feed likely to get that Grade A car- they’re less labour intensive with “about 70 per cent success.” on a scale, and then having to costs, and stress-related losses. cass and minimize your trim and less time consuming,” she “The idea was that the bison back out.” “By implementing this scale, loss by not putting your ani- said. “There’s less stress on the would walk onto the platform The system was installed you’d see an increase in your mal through the squeeze,” animals from less handling and and stand on the scale,” said Per- March 10, and so far, the prelimi- income by being better able said Semchuck. restraint, and a low-stress, low- ryman. “The bison would need nary results are promising. With to achieve an optimal weight. “You’re going to weigh your hands-on environment can to stand on the scale to get the three days of data at the time You’d also have an increase in bison without them even eliminate trim losses or give you minerals.” they presented their findings, the meat quality, as there will be knowing.” a Grade A carcass.” Of course, the animals have to students had 379 total readings less stress and less bruising on want minerals. from the walk-over platform. the carcass.” [email protected] ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 13 Top tips for feeding for rumen health Cattle — and microbes in their rumens — need a consistent supply of both dry matter and nutrients to improve performance and reduce digestive diseases

are provided in the rumen and By Jennifer Blair adapt to those responses,” said af staff Penner. “Unfortunately, not all of “If we’re looking for the those responses are beneficial.” attle feeders aren’t just Feed with variable energy, for greatest reward in terms feeding cattle — they’re instance, will create a differ- of management strategies, C also feeding the microbes ent “growth response” in the that live in the rumen. microbes. it comes back down And those little critters are “If the growth response is not to basic management picky. well controlled, the result can “Regardless of the production be harmful products such as and simply minimizing system, the challenge that we face antigens, and these antigens is variation in dry matter intake can actually induce an immune variation for dry matter and total nutrient intake,” said response,” he said. intake and nutrient intake Greg Penner, assistant professor Because of that, cattle feeders of animal and poultry science at need to balance having an “active in your cattle.” the University of Saskatchewan. microbial population” with regu- “If we’re looking to promote lating the population. rumen health, we need to ensure “We want that microbial com- we’re providing those cattle — munity to be focused on fibre Greg Penner and in the end, those microbes — digestion to ensure there’s ade- a consistent supply of dry matter, quate nutrients for the cattle, as well as adequate nutrients so but also to make sure they’re that they have the tools required efficiently digesting those feed to do their job. components.” “You’ve got to ensure you’re Monitoring grain processing is to make that fermentation pro- “Focusing on management And providing a consistent feed restricting access to extensive another practice that can be done cess more efficient and certainly strategies that minimize varia- supply is the best way to do that. feeding systems to ensure that they “fairly easily.” resulting in greater efficiency in tion in intake will achieve the “Whether it’s a forage-based don’t simply overindulge on those “It not only prevents overcon- feed utilization.” greatest rewards for your opera- diet or a concentrate-based diet, tasty corncobs or barley cereal sumption but also ensures that Cattle feeders are “probably tion.” we need to ensure we have a con- grains and leave the fibre for later,” you have adequate fermenta- already doing a lot of these things” T h r o u g h d i g e s t i o n , g u t sistent supply of dry matter and a said Penner. tion of that potentially expensive on their operations, he said, and microbes turn feed into energy, consistent and adequate supply “I know of producers who are pro- cereal grain,” said Penner. that’s what’s going to improve protein, and nutrients. When the of nutrients to meet the micro- viding additional forage to ensure Using ionophores is “one easily production performance. right kinds of microbes are work- bial nutrient demand and to meet adequate dry matter intake.” adoptable feeding strategy” that “If we’re looking for the greatest ing well in the rumen, cattle use the cattle nutrient demand,” said For feedlot or backgrounded can also stabilize rumen fermen- reward in terms of management feed more efficiently and have Penner. cattle, bunk management “plays tation. strategies, it comes back down a reduced risk for digestive dis- an incredibly important role.” “There’s an extensive use of to basic management and sim- eases. Dry matter matters “You’ve got to be reading those ionophores in the beef industry, ply minimizing variation for dry But variations in diet can affect Ensuring cattle have adequate bunks and feeding based on the and they’re very effective tools matter intake and nutrient intake how microbes digest feed. feed is the first step — but behaviour of those cattle and the to stabilize dry matter intake by in your cattle.” “The microbes have to respond improving access to dry matter amount of feed available in the the cattle,” he said. “They help to to those changes in nutrients that can be equally important, he said. bunk.” manipulate rumen fermentation [email protected]

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Alberta Blue Cross 83309 Alberta Farmer - 10.25” x 7.75” RUN March 30, 2015 14 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA A close look at the Breeding Soundness Evaluation form beef 911 } Evaluating a bull isn’t straightforward and there is a number of factors to consider

ment which attaches to the tip bull goes down before we can Bigger testicles may yield a As always with all semen By Roy Lewis DVM of the penis and doesn’t allow stimulate him very much and greater serving capacity as long evaluations usually both the n talking with astute, dili- it to extend at erection. these are unlikely to protrude as libido is good and physically libido and ability to breed are gent and thorough cattle- Is there any issue whatso- as well. It is ideal to visualize the bull is sound. We have seen best checked by observing the I men, it’s come to my atten- ever with his feet or legs, which the penis every time. Another instances where abnormally large bull in his first few matings. If tion that a close examination of could affect future usage? No way could be on all those that testicles will be detrimental to you need bulls with higher- the Breeding Soundness Evalu- bull is perfect, but still the most don’t protrude to tranquilize breeding ability. So bigger is not serving capacity closely scru- ation form is clearly warranted. important comment is, ‘In the them after the semen sample always necessarily better. tinize the ones which just pass All conscientious breed- vet’s opinion is the bull consid- is collected and their penis Keep in mind that some bulls the semen morphology, or just ers will make them available ered satisfactory on that day?’ will extend passively. At least reach puberty a little later in their make the breed minimum for before a sale or for sure at Other issues are comments one veterinarian I know does first year, so the yearling semen scrotal size. If you have any the point of delivery. Specific on the forms such as a bit softer this and then can honestly say evaluations will on average be questions, talk to the breeder. things on the form may be testicles, a size difference in he has visualized the working below the quality of the two- They are more than happy to more applicable depending the testicles, or he did not pro- apparatus. year-old and older bulls. You are help you select the bull that on the specific use of the bull. trude (meaning the penis did Many of the smaller issues not really comparing apples to best fits your needs. Character- Has the bull just passed his not extend out of the sheath). we all comment on, but may apples, and generally speaking, istics such as polled/horned, test in one or more categories? No protrusion could mean not really have much of a det- the yearlings will be running with colour dominance, carcass Does his scrotal circumference there was just not enough or rimental effect on the bull’s fewer cows. We need to compare characteristics and genetic just make the breed minimum? overstimulation of the bull or it breeding ability. semen evaluations between bulls testing can all be discussed. Do other specific things catch could mean there is a physical The veterinarian’s comment of the same age group. There are copious amounts of your attention, such as have problem. The physical prob- of softer testicles is still very Another caution flag could data on bulls these days. The there been warts removed, lem could be to do with an subjective and may identify a be with bulls with evidence of trick is determining what are did the bull have a frenulum, erectile dysfunction or scarring problem or could simply be seminal vesiculitis. The major- the important ones for you the old cuts on the penis, etc.? A of the penis to the side of the the variation we see between ity of these bulls clears up either purchaser and selecting based frenulum could be hereditary, sheath and as a result no pro- bulls. If you have herd bull’s on their own or with treatment. on your criteria. but is only carried through on trusion. Sometimes we may see semen tested every year, com- Some will never clear up and it is The old adage, you pay for the male side so a commercial a large swelling in the sheath pare evaluations year to year important they have a clean bill quality, holds true in the bull breeder should have no issue which points to a potential to compare differences. If you of health before using them. Most business as well. as all his bulls will become problem. I have even seen a see decreased results, in other veterinarians will stain the sup- steers. But a purebred breeder couple of bulls over the years words, such as morphological posed recovered semen sample Roy Lewis practised large animal should shy away from a herd with such a large wart on the defect increasing or testicles, and check very closely for white veterinary medicine for more than prospect that has had a frenu- penis as to be unable to pro- which are shrinking, that may blood cells (pus) cells to make 30 years and now works part time lum cut. A frenulum, by the trude or the wart scarred the indicate impending failure the sure there has been a complete as a technical services veterinarian way, is a ligamentous attach- sheath to itself. The very odd following year. recovery. for Merck Animal Health.

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©2015 Farm Business Communications ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 15 Rotation grazing and an amazing transformation The one-wire fences, cover crops, and intensive grazing raised some eyebrows — as did 500 fast-gaining head on 600 acres

allowed for several sweeps over By Brenda Schoepp the barley. Many grain farmers af columnist would drop by trying to find weeds in our barley fields, but he ranch we were starting we used the cattle for weeding from scratch had a stun- pre-seed emergence and the T ning mountain view west fields tended to be clean. of Grande Prairie. But except This was the first intensive for a small lovely piece of native rotational grazing system in the prairie, this was land mined area and so there was terrific hard for grain crops. concern about one-wire fences. A relentless wind meant drift But we never had an issue with from the sprayer had hard- the cattle going on walk about. ened the shelterbelts to a few The lifting of the fences with a old stalks of saskatoon bushes. white pipe to move them (no Our plan was to seed appropri- inside gates) was a positive ate species, this time with some reinforcement so we were also nutrients, and watch a grazing always in front of the cattle and enterprise evolve from grain not behind them. My husband land. and I could easily sort through Everything we did was to opti- 400 to 500 heifers for AI in a mize the forage resource, build morning without any chasing or organic matter, manage natu- disruption to the cattle. Much ral waterways, increase wildlife to our working mates’ dismay, populations, extend the graz- I changed the outer gate loca- ing season while maintaining tions often as I got a feel for the Using barley as a cover crop provided a fantastic jump start. integrity in the landscape, and land! nourish the land for future gen- As for the pastures them- The extreme difference in soil erations. selves, we liked to push the type, high winds, frost, and long We started with water — both envelope and grow what our days that ended suddenly all con- dugout and well. The dugout local friends said could not be tributed to a steep learning curve was professionally done and done like corn (they were right, and we discovered that what you we had the largest solar water too close to the mountains) or have stored by mid-August is system in Canada at the time. orchard grass (amazing) along what you have for the rest of the My daughter was instrumental with combinations that would year. It is about focusing on the in the design which allowed assure palatability in the field roots and planning for extremes pumped water to flow to round for the entire grazing season. in the North. In the end, we had tanks that could accommodate This meant that fescue (which super pastures and revived shel- up to 500 breeding heifers. is harvested in the area) was terbelts that hummed with birds The shelterbelts were fenced grazed early in the spring and and bees. It was an amazing off to allow them a rest and to late in the fall. Relentless fel- transformation for the land and invite birds back into the area. lows like foxtail were grazed as a great time for our family. The dugout was also fenced and soon as the snow melted. We Intensive rotational grazing was new in the area and so as there were no standing cattle could go back to brome contin- Second in a three-part series. field day at the ranch drew a crowd. or winter facilities, we could uously, but always with caution safely use every square inch as varieties of alfalfa were mixed without run-off concerns. The with the grasses to contribute to real challenge was the long, cold nitrogen. We did not add fertil- springs, the variability in the izer after seeding as the cattle land, and the stubborn weeds, were nutrition enough with 500 such as horseradish, that grew head rotating on 600 acres. in large patches. Mother Nature is modest and At the end, the ranch had a will always try to cover her- total of 50 paddocks, one quar- self. First with weeds and then ter section of which was tem- with plants that appreciate the porary so it could be pulled for cooled soil. With rest and rota- cleanup bulls who need space tion, even the most stubborn to think and for weather events of weeds disappeared. We had such as eight inches of snow a minimum gain of two pounds in August. This barley was the and a maximum gain of 4.2 safety valve for the ranch as the pounds. But on average with the seeded pasture with such heavy barley in the mix and grazed at soil could not tolerate exces- the shot blade, we had continu- sive wet. But you could trash ous gains of over three pounds AGRITECHNICA the barley and it would simply per head per day. grow back again. The profitability on each pad- There is a miracle in rest and dock was directly related to our rotation. With 50 pastures, that selection of grazing material, NOVEMBER 6-15, 2015 meant 49 were resting and that the palatability and the perfor- is a lot of the land in recovery mance of it and the cattle while at a time. We direct seeded there. For example, our close- legumes and grasses with 50 outs on the grazing on a per- Highlights include: pounds of N and 25 pounds of acre basis in 2002 was $183 acre P, using barley as a cover crop. net on barley (cover crop), $63 • Travelling to a number Although using a cover crop is acre net on Rangeland and Kay of cities: Hannover, SPACE IS not preferred by some grazers, orchard grass, $28 acre net on Einbeck, Wolfsburg, LIMITED we found it a fantastic jump- traditional fescue, and $80 acre Braunschweig and Berlin start and that because of the net on Fleet meadow brome. We rapid growth, the underseeded could not make this level today, plants were not jeopardized. but it shows how important • Agricultural stops include: The long hours of sunlight plant selection is. Agritechnica, the world’s leading exhibition for agricultural machinery • Sight-seeing opportunities include: and equipment and KWS, one of the VW factory, Berlin Wall, Brandenburg four leading plant breeding companies Gate, Hitler’s bunker and German AG EQUIPMENT in the world. brew house. DEALS ON THE GO! Total cost $3995 | $500 deposit due March 31, 2015 visit farmingsmarter.com for full agenda and booking form SCAN TO DOWNLOAD THE APP »» 16 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Chicken feed doesn’t describe this system Some broiler breeders gobble more than their fair share of feed, but a new Alberta-designed system has a fix for that

By Jennifer Blair af staff “The system has done a great niversity of Alberta researchers are job at growing birds to the right only halfway through a precision weight.” U feeding trial for broiler breeders — but the early results are promising. “The system has done a great job at grow- ing birds to the right weight,” said Martin Martin Zuidhof Zuidhof, an associate professor at the Uni- versity of Alberta. Along with a team of electrical and mechanical engineers, the poultry systems expert developed the feeding system last to sell the system” for breeding companies, year as part of a research project on improv- he added. ing broiler breeder performance through “They’re holding out to see the results of precision feeding. the laying phase — understandably. What “Every year, breeding companies are pro- we’re looking at is an expensive way to feed ducing broiler chickens that grow faster and chickens, albeit very effective,” he said. faster and faster,” said Zuidhof. “Production has to improve a lot for this to “The competition for feed, at the breeder be economically feasible.” level, is very high. Because feed is a scarce This photo only shows a corner of the University of Alberta’s precision feeding machine Zuidhof expects that egg production “will resource that’s competed for, it’s difficult to because it is not yet patented, along with one of the flocks of broiler breeders in the improve a lot,” based on systems like those distribute it evenly amongst all the chickens study. Photo: Courtesy Martin Zuidhof in Colombia and Brazil where workers man- in the flock.” age birds on the basis of body weight. The broiler breeder industry has “That system weighs the broiler breeder system versus the conventional feeding “They put all the big birds together and attempted to address that problem by before feeding time,” he said. “The bird goes system.” feed them a little less, and they put all the “feeding bulkier diets so that there’s more into a station, gets its weight taken, and then That’s largely due to the frequency at small birds together and feed them a little feed to go around.” if it’s less than the target that it’s supposed which the birds are being fed. more,” he said. But that system isn’t foolproof. to be at, we give it a meal.” “They’re fed any time they qualify for a Because they manage the birds more “We have a very difficult time getting the And halfway through the 60-week feeding meal — that is, any time their body weight intensively, “they do a tremendous job,” right amount of feed to the right bird, and trial, the system seems to be working — at is less than the target. We’re feeding them producing over 145 chicks per hen, while we have flock uniformity issues,” he said. least as far as flock uniformity is concerned. small meals multiple times a day,” he said. Alberta’s numbers are under 120 chicks “The problem with flock uniformity is that “A key part of the system is kicking the per hen. Precision feeding should be able birds don’t lay as many eggs when the flock birds out when the meal is finished, and Feeling peckish? to make up some of that difference, said isn’t uniform, because they’re not getting by doing that, we’ve been able to control On average, the birds are eating eight small Zuidhof. the right amount of feed or they’re not ready body weight and grow birds on the body meals a day (versus one big one daily in a “That’s a 10 to 15 per cent increase in at the same time to start laying eggs.” weight curves that we prescribe for them,” conventional system), and that allows them productivity that’s being left on the table said Zuidhof. to make better use of their feed. currently, and I think the system can help Targeted feeding Feed efficiency has also improved, he “The birds don’t have to store their energy extract some of that potential from the Zuidhof’s precision feeding system is said. and their nutrients and then mobilize it birds.” attempting to work around that problem “We’ve seen a four per cent increase in from their body stores,” said Zuidhof. by only feeding underweight birds. feed efficiency in the precision feeding But egg production is what’s “really going [email protected]

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Pulse performance data online This year’s version of Varieties of Pulse Crops for Alberta is now available. This annual fact sheet contains information on pulse crop variety performance in Alberta and northeastern B.C. Important agronomic characteristics and disease resistance information are provided for varieties of field pea, chickpea, lentil, faba bean, dry bean and soybean. It can be found at www.agric.gov.ab.ca by typing ‘pulse crops varieties’ in the search box. For additional variety information, including ones not listed in the fact sheet, search for ‘regional variety testing’ or by calling 310-FARM (3276). — AARD release Varieties }

Flying Skipping soil tests blind? could cost you big time You have to know how to interpret it, but not soil sampling and using ‘the usual retail blends’ can be a costly mistake

you’re potentially limiting yield,” fertility on the farm,” said Limoges, it. There’s no question,” he said. “I By Jennifer Blair said Cutts. “On the other hand, you who is also an Agri-Trend coach. wouldn’t farm without it now that af staff don’t want to be overapplying them “It helps us allocate our fertilizer I’ve been doing it.” because then that’s money that’s dollars better.” ot very many hands go up not being put into yield.” The average amount of fertilizer More is good when Mark Cutts asks a he buys hasn’t changed much in On Michael Kalisvaart’s farm, soil N room full of producers how Fine tuning fertility the past decade, but the swing on sampling is one extra step to mak- many of them test their soil every That’s what led producer Richard a specific field can be dramatic in ing sure there’s “no gaps in (his) year. Limoges to begin “intensive” soil any given year. management.” “I don’t think the majority is doing sampling in 2005. “If we’re coming off a dry year, we “Without a soil sample, you’re soil testing,” said the crop specialist “We use it to monitor our nutrient might find a lot of residual nitrogen, just flying blind,” said Kalisvaart, with Alberta Agriculture and Rural levels in order to identify opportuni- which will really cut back our need who has been soil sampling on his

Development. ties to improve nutrients that will for the next year,” he said. “After a 12,000-acre grain farm near Gib- T:15.58” “If a producer is happy with his help us grow better crops,” said wet year or a really good crop, we bons for the past 20 years. yields and he’s not soil testing — Limoges, who operates a 1,500-acre might have none and need to apply “We know how much nutrition well, he’s happy with his yields. He seed farm near McLennan with his a lot more.” we’re pulling out of the soil, and we doesn’t necessarily know he could father. One field in particular has ben- need to know where we’re starting have got another five bushels if Typically, that means avoiding efited from soil testing, he said. In so that we can hit our yield targets. he had changed his blend or done “the usual retail blends” and fine that field, the crops tend to lodge It’s given us great confidence that things a little differently.” tuning the farm’s fertility program. and stay green through harvest. The we’ve done everything that we can That sort of additional yield trans- “It’s given us a better idea of our solution was to decrease nitrogen to have a successful year.” lates into big bucks — but fewer immobile nutrients, like phospho- and boost phosphorus and potash. And the results speak for themselves. than half of Alberta producers use rus and potassium, and it’s allowed And Limoges said he has “abso- “I’m absolutely sure we have soil tests to shape their fertility pro- us to manage our nitrogen much lutely” seen a yield impact. higher yields and that our yield aver- grams, said Cutts. Cost is one factor better, which is the biggest cost for “It takes some time, but it’s worth ages across all our fields are higher — a basic test runs from $20 to $50 than they would be otherwise, if we — but producers tend to go with the were just taking a guess,” he said. “It blends they know, he said. helps us control costs and be more “Once producers get settled into accurate with what we use.” some blends, they tend to run with “It takes some time, but it’s Kalisvaart is now ramping up his those blends for a number of years,” worth it. There’s no question. sampling to integrate variable-rate fer- he said. “There’s nothing wrong tilizer application into his operation. with that, but it’s probably not a I wouldn’t farm without it now “This year, for the first time, we’re bad idea every four or five years to that I’ve been doing it.” doing about 35 per cent of our collect some soil samples and see if ground on either a 2.5- or five-acre nutrient levels are where you want grid,” he said. “We’re going from them to be.” one composite sample of the whole “Things do change, and if you field to a minimum of 30 samples haven’t been replacing the nutri- and up to 60 samples per field.” ents at the same amount they’re Using an AutoProbe system that being removed, that level may start hooks onto the back of his tractor, to drop down.” Richard Limoges Kalisvaart was able to take soil sam- It’s all about finding the right bal- ples every 11 feet. ance. “If you’re not applying enough, see SOIL TEST } page 18

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SOIL TEST } from page 17

“We’re getting really, really accurate soil tests just because of the number of times we poke the ground, and then of course, we’re getting these fantastic nutrition maps of our fields.” It takes about three hours to collect 60 samples “versus one composite sample taking two hours roughly, if they do a good job,” he said. He’s also reduced his costs by working with a network of other farmers — called FamilyFarms Group — to get a group rate. “I did try and pursue a price for lab tests with a Canadian lab independent of retailers, and it did quote me significant savings as well but only with large vol- ume,” he said. “The lab test itself we are get- ting done for about a third of the price, with freight included.” It’s a worthwhile investment, he added. “When you’re spending the kind of money we do on fertil- izer, I don’t see why you would do it any other way.”

Testing tips More testing also helps weed out the ones that are out of whack. More is better for Gibbons-area farmer Michael Kalisvaart, who is using an AutoProbe for precision soil sampling for the first time this year. Photo: Courtesy Michael Kalisvaart “Producers should not “Because we have such a large 80 pounds of nitrogen on a also take a “systematic approach” In addition to current crop and be afraid to tweak those number of samples on most of barley crop and the producer to soil sampling — in other words, yield goals, producers need to con- numbers based on their our fields, when we get a sample knows that if he puts on over this is one area where free is not sider past crop types, fertility, and that’s a bit of a surprise, we can 70 pounds, that crop is going to necessarily a good thing. yields if they hope to make the most own experiences.” discount it because we know it lodge, he’s going to make some “A lot of retailers will offer free soil of their soil samples, said Limoges. isn’t following our trends,” said decisions using his own experi- sampling, and there’s no continuity “I think that’s where people drop Kalisvaart. ence,” he said. to it from last year, because they’re the ball. You can’t get a good rec- Richard That’s the trick to using soil “Producers should not be afraid not asking the right questions,” he ommendation without the back- Limoges tests successfully, said Cutts. to tweak those numbers based on said. “They’re still offering the guy ground.” “If the recommendation their own experiences.” the same blend that he took home comes in and it’s asking for Limoges recommends producers last year, regardless of the soil test.” [email protected]

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*Fuel must be purchased with a valid BCREF, AFFB or SFTX permit. Cardlock and bulk fuel purchases apply, purchases may be cumulative over contest period. UFA.com †First fill based on 85-95% safe fill rate. To enter and be eligible to win a person must be a legal resident of Canada (excluding the province of Quebec) who has reached the age of majority at the time of entry in the Province or Territory in which he/she resides, AND be a member of UFA Co-operative Ltd. (“UFA”). Prizes may not be exactly as shown. No purchase necessary. Visit UFA.com for complete contest details. All other products are registered trademarks of their respective companies. © 2015 UFA Co-operative Ltd. All rights reserved. 03/15-43405 AFE ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 19 Wheat breeder extraordinaire Ron DePauw retires DePauw will continue to work for improved wheat cultivars as ‘mentor, adviser and consultant’

as winner of the annual Cana- variety between 1998 and 2005,” By Allan Dawson dian Plant Breeding and Genet- the release said. “All new wheat staff ics Award. “That’s the value of cultivars that have come along grain produced annually from since are measured against the ne of the world’s pre-emi- wheat cultivars developed by new standard set by AC Barrie.” nent wheat breeders has Ron DePauw.” Not only was AC Barrie sub- O retired — sort of. DePauw is a co-developer of stantially higher yielding than Ron DePauw, Agriculture AC Lillian — the first solid-stem other CWRS wheats, but had and Agri-Food Canada’s senior Canadian Western Red Spring higher protein. principal wheat breeder at the (CWRS) wheat variety widely DePauw’s work has been Semi Arid Prairie Agricultural grown across the Prairies and the widely recognized. He was made Research Centre (SPARC) in most popular the last four years. a member of the Order of Can- Swift Current, retired from the But according to the CSTA, ada in 2003 and received the Pro- department March 20. DePauw’s most notable con- fessional Institute of the Public Last year DePauw was dubbed tribution to Canadian agricul- Service of Canada’s Gold Medal the “billion-dollar man” in rec- ture was the development of for Excellence in Public Service ognition of the close to 60 wheat AC Barrie, which it says “liter- in 2011. cultivars he and his colleagues ally changed the face of wheat As of 2011, DePauw’s culti- developed since 1973, including production in Canada.” Regis- vars had earned the Canadian AC Barrie and AC Lillian. tered in 1994, by 2000 AC Barrie Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada wheat breeder Ron DePauw retired government $8.8 million in roy- “I will continue to be available accounted for almost half of the from the department March 20 after more than 40 years of service, but alties. to further genetic enhancement CWRS acres in Canada. will continue to further genetic enhancement as a mentor, adviser, and photo: allan dawson [email protected] as a mentor, adviser, and consul- “It was the most widely grown consultant. Trim: 8.125” tant,” he said in an email. “The fruits of our labours at SPARC have been the uptake and adoption of high-value traits and performance of ‘field-ready’ cultivars.” That’s an understatement. “You could call him the bil- lion-dollar man,” SeCan’s Jeff Reid said in a news release last year announcing DePauw SELECT YOUR CROP Video guides to gluten- and allergy- free foods Short videos offer an introduction to the booming ® market for these products AcapelaFungicide Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development • Powerful & innovative disease protection • Best-in-class movement release properties • Rapid uptake & fl exible under a variety of conditions

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Black, C=2 M=100 Y=85 K=6, C=50 M=24 DUP1420_DUPW_FIELD-Canola-1376-NWS.psd 300 ppi CMYK Up to Date Y=0 K=10 DUP1421_DUPW-AcapelaTablet_Canola_2-v1-NWS.psd 373 ppi CMYK Up to Date Dupont_Signature_Bar-Miracles-Right-EN-2015.ai Up to Date Dupont_3Bar_Lockup_MedFormat-2015.ai Up to Date 20 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Forage seed industry wants Western Canada to be a GM alfalfa-free zone Seed growers say keeping GM alfalfa out of Western Canada would save current export markets and open the door to additional sales

By Jennifer Blair af staff / olds “In China, zero means lfalfa seed growers in zero. They have no Alberta could stand to tolerance. It doesn’t A gain a huge market advan- tage over their neighbours to the matter if you can test south — if the industry can keep it down to one-one- GM alfalfa out of Western Canada. “We’ve got access to potential thousandth of a per market gains by picking up mar- kets that are possibly going to be cent. If they find any lost in the States,” said Heather kind of a trace, it’s not Kerschbaumer, a Fairview-area seed grower and president of For- acceptable.” age Seed Canada. “The longer we can keep it out, the more of an advantage we’re Heather Kerschbaumer going to have for marketing.” Alfalfa is the fourth-largest crop, in acreage and value, in the U.S., but contamination from geneti- cally engineered crops in “suppos- some of these markets that edly GE-free zones” in California Keeping Roundup Ready alfalfa out of Western Canada is critical, says Fairview seed grower and Forage Seed they’re losing,” said Kerschbau- and Washington are raising red Canada president Heather Kerschbaumer. photo: allan dawson mer. “There’s big potential.” flags with Europe, China and other But it all depends on keep- buyers. GM contamination can affect for- This wasn’t her first lost sale “So we lost $20,000 just from one ing GM alfalfa out of Western “In China, zero means zero,” age seed markets. due to GM contamination. A canola seed,” she said. Canada. Kerschbaumer said at the Alberta Last month, she lost a 16,000- 40,000-pound shipment of tim- “In Canada, we have it coming Forage Industry Network AGM in pound sale of yellow blossom othy seed destined for Japan Big business into the East, but we’re wonder- mid-March. sweet clover to northern Europe was lost after one canola seed Collectively, American hay ing about the West,” she said. “They have no tolerance. It because some GM canola seeds was found in a 25-gram sam- exporters are facing huge losses. “It’s probably never going doesn’t matter if you can test it were found in the shipment, even ple collected by the Canadian The potential market losses of to be completely stopped, but down to one-one-thousandth of though it was certified organic. Food Inspection Agency. The hay exports to China alone we’re wondering if it could be a per cent. If they find any kind of The farmer who grew the seed seed cut the shipment’s value could reach up to $20 billion, slowed down.” a trace, it’s not acceptable.” says he hasn’t grown canola for in half, from $1 a pound to just she said. She has also seen first hand how 15 years, Kerschbaumer said. 50 cents. T:10.25” “Canada could pick up on see Forage seed } page 21

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Forage seed } from page 20 The plan has some precedent, she said. In 2011, Monsanto and Five Roundup Ready alfalfa Forage Genetics International varieties were approved for Can- agreed not to commercialize ada in 2013 and were set to hit Roundup Ready alfalfa in Califor- shelves in Eastern Canada last nia’s Imperial Valley, the largest spring. Monsanto and marketer exporter of hay in the U.S. Forage Genetics International And as seed suppliers for the held off due to “push-back” from hay industry, the forage seed the industry, but almost a dozen industry could make a strong test plots were planted in Ontario argument to keep GM alfalfa out and Quebec last year, with more of Western Canada. to come this year. “We have everyone on our That’s a problem for growers in shoulders,” said Kerschbaumer. Western Canada, where the risk “If we don’t have clean seed, of contamination is greater, said we’re not going to have clean Kerschbaumer. hay.” She said she’s not personally ‘GE-free zone’ opposed to GM technology, but The forage seed industry is look- what matters is that customers ing to have Western Canada des- in China, Japan, the Middle East, ignated as a “GE-free zone” where Mexico, and South America are. clean seed can be produced. Those markets will be lost for- “Seed companies are already ever once Roundup Ready alfalfa starting to move seed production is grown in Western Canada, she out of the U.S. up into Canada added. because they need clean seed “It’s not something we can get stocks, even for their own variet- back,” Kerschbaumer said. “If we ies that they’re trying to market decide in five years that’s all OK, into Europe. They still need to I’m OK with that. I’m not against have a safe area.” it either, except I think they Kerschbaumer said she sus- should slow down and make sure pects that’s partly why Canada it’s not going to hurt us.” grew 5,300 more acres of certified alfalfa seed in 2014 compared to [email protected] Roundup Ready is already on sale south of the border, but it’s causing problems for 2013. with files from Allan Dawson American forage seed growers and hay exporters. Photo: www.americasalfalfa.com

Alfalfa seed: a growing industry No bundles. By Jennifer Blair af staff / olds

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[email protected] 22 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Harper says railways can’t be allowed to misuse market power Grain sector wants legislation to ‘counterbalance’ the duopoly power of CN and CP Rail

power must be counterbalanced By Allan Dawson with legislative solutions, which we staff are optimistic the government will “We simply cannot introduce after the CTA (Canadian accept outcomes where estern Canadian farm- Transportation Act) review process ers and grain companies has been completed,” Wade Sob- those two big companies W have a new supporter for kowich said in a statement. would dictate to the their argument that the railways But the railways argue that’s not have too much market power — needed and rail service is now “in market just what they Prime Minister Stephen Harper, sync” with the grain supply. no less. “CN today is efficiently respond- think is satisfactory.” A year after his government ing to the demand… and is on pace ordered CN and CP to ship a weekly to deliver another banner year for minimum volume of grain or face western Canadian grain,” said CN Stephen Harper steep fines, Harper said govern- spokesman Mark Hallman. ment intervention is justified. At press time, there was no word “We understand, and it’s impor- if the current grain-movement tant that everyone who’s looking order, due to expire March 28, at this system understands, that would be extended. But Agricul- days’ worth of car supply,” said CN this is an unusual situation where ture Minister Gerry Ritz said the president Claude Mongeau. in the marketplace you have two government is still concerned and CN accused the transport coali- Railways can’t dictate what is “satisfactory” when it comes to moving large suppliers — the two big watching, though the system is not tion of using ‘phantom orders’ in its grain, says Prime Minister Stephen Harper, shown here with Saskatchewan railway companies — where they as strained as last year. calculations because grain compa- Association of Rural Municipalities president Ray Orb. Photo: Jill Thompson, PMO have extraordinary market power,” However, both railways issued nies routinely order more cars than Harper said at the recent Saskatch- statements saying they’re ship- they have grain to fill them with — “We could do about 2.3 million the federal government to moni- ewan Association of Rural Munici- ping more grain than ordered and something the elevator association tonnes of throughput on the West tor grain transportation. palities’ annual meeting. another grain-movement order denies. Coast per week,” he said. “The He said he suspects the Ag “And we simply cannot accept isn’t needed. They also disputed “The railways have the ability railways are supplying… around Transport Coalition’s count is outcomes where those two big data gathered by the Ag Transport to penalize grain companies for 450,000 tonnes per week. So we based on every order put to the companies would dictate to the Coalition, which claims the rail- unused capacity,” said Sobkowich. have much more capacity to railways, but the railways use a market just what they think is sat- ways failed to deliver 22,884 cars “When the railways start supplying unload grain than they have to sup- different method. For example, isfactory.” or 11 per cent of grain company rail cars that grain companies don’t ply it. We are out of cars between 20 CN prohibits the current and The prime minister is bang on, orders since the start of the crop accept and use then they can argue and 30 per cent of the time.” earlier week’s total orders from said the executive director of the year on Aug. 1. phantom ordering. Until then, it is exceeding double the grain com- Western Grain Elevator Associa- “The facts are clear, when we a ‘phantom’ argument.” Whose data is correct? pany’s total car spot capacity. tion. compare our shipments with all Sobkowich also denied CN’s It depends on how one counts “It stands to reason that the valid car orders, our wait list stands charge that port terminals are a car orders, said Mark Hemmes of [email protected] with files extraordinary railway market at less than 2,000 orders, just a few bottleneck. Quorum Corporation, hired by from Reuters

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New book WALK IN THE WILLOWS shows good and bad bugs AAFC scientist edits book listing 600 beetle specimens

Staff

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada scientist Patrice Bouchard has edited a new book — The Book of Beetles: A Life-Size Guide to Six Hundred of Nature’s Gems. One in five of all known life forms on Earth is a beetle, and the vari- ous species can be both helpful and harmful to Winter hasn’t been too tough on this horse near Lundbreck, Alta., as it has plenty of free range among snow-free willows. Photo: Wendy Dudley agriculture. They recycle soil nutrients, eat live and dead plant and animal tissue, can help control weeds, and eat insect pests like aphids, slugs, and caterpillars. Beetles have been suc- cessfully used by Agricul- ture Canada scientists as biological control agents What’s better than to address weed problems in crops and rangelands. Mogulones crucifer, a maximizing yield potential and quality? weevil from the beetle family for example, has recently provided much (A really nice place to brag about it.) relief to rangelands in Western Canada affected by hound’s tongue, a weed highly toxic to live- stock. However, beetles can damage or destroy crops and trees. If not under- stood and managed, they can cause significant loss- es to the agriculture sec- tor by feeding on plants and eating up crop yields before harvest or after harvest when grains are stored. Win a Snap-on® makeover Many of the beetles for your shop courtesy photographed in the book come from the Canadian of two great fungicides. National Collection of insects, arachnids, and nematodes housed at its research centre in Ottawa. Each beetle is presented with a life-size photo as well as a magnified picture to showcase the characteristics and colou- rations of these diverse insects. The book is written to appeal to professional and armchair beetle enthusi- asts alike. Basic biological information is given for each beetle, along with a map showing where it is found in the world, its conservation status, and Nothing maximizes yield potential and overall cereal quality like using information on its cul- Twinline® and Caramba® fungicides. And as if getting the most out of your tural and economic sig- nificance. crop wasn’t enough of an incentive, here’s one more. You could win a The Book of Beetles: Snap-on shop makeover valued at $100,000. To qualify, watch the online A Life-Size Guide to Six video by April 30, 2015. Then if you purchase1 640 acres of Twinline and/or Hundred of Nature’s Gems Caramba in 2015, you’ll be entered to win. View the video now and enter is published by the Uni- versity of Chicago Press PIN SHOP82 at agsolutions.ca/cereals/shopmakeover. and available at book retailers. 1 No purchase necessary. Open only to age of majority Canadian growers who: (i) reside in AB, MB, SK, or the Peace Region of BC; (ii) are the owner, operator or designated representative of a farm; and (iii) are legally permitted to accept a promotional prize from BASF. Enter online and read full rules (including complete prize/reward descriptions, entry requirements and details on how to enter without purchase) at www.agsolutions.ca/cereals/shopmakeover. Offer begins Jan 2/15 (12:00 AM ET) and ends Apr 30/15 (11:59 PM ET). Contest begins Jan 2/15 (12:00 AM ET) and ends Sept 30/15 (11:59 PM ET). Each eligible entrant will earn one (1) reward (ARV: $15 CAD) while quantities last, and have the opportunity to earn one (1) entry for the chance to win a Snap-on shop makeover worth a maximum of $100,000 CAD (inclusive of all fees and taxes). Odds of Where the stories go. winning the Snap-on shop makeover depend on the number of eligible entries. Skill-testing question required. Always read and follow label directions. AgSolutions is a registered trade-mark of BASF Corporation; CARAMBA is a registered trade-mark of BASF Agro B.V.; TWINLINE is a registered trade-mark of BASF SE; all used SEARCH Network with permission by BASF Canada Inc. Snap-on is a registered trade-mark of Snap-on Incorporated. TWINLINE and CARAMBA fungicides should be used in a preventative disease Search news. Read stories. Find insight. control program. © 2015 BASF Canada Inc. NEWS Client: BASF Publication: Alberta Farm Express . . . Tawn File: Twinline-Caramba_SnapOn_Ad_AFE_v5 Page Position: Junior Page Project Name: Twinline-Caramba Ads Live Area: 8.125” x 10” CMYK PMS ART DIR CREATIVE CLIENT MAC ARTIST V5 Docket Number: 110201534 Trim size: 8.125” x 10” . . . . 02/18/15

STUDIO AD#: kenna_JrPg4C_AFE_110201134/110201535_TC2Pass Offer Bleed: NA PMS PMS COPYWRITERACCT MGR SPELLCHECK PROD MGR PROOF # 24 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Mind your own business Small-town business fair an idea others should try, says Manitoba chamber president

weren’t for Boissevain’s Sawmill dramatically over the last By Lorraine Stevenson Coffee and Tea Company. But decade and a half, making staff / Boissevain, Man. there’s not much else he misses it possible to live and work about city life. virtually anywhere people hen residents of a small “A handshake out here means wish. Manitoba community something,” he said, adding There are new opportuni- W talk about minding that even at age 26 he’s put ties to attract people into their own business, what they off by reliance on technology smaller centres because mean is, “Let’s help someone that doesn’t do much for cre- high-speed technology now start one.” ating meaningful relationships makes it much easier to set “The next time someone between people. up shop outside larger cen- says, ‘You know what this town “I believe relationships are tres. needs,’ say, ‘How can I help you built with quality time spent “It makes it a lot easier get that started?’” said Marj Bil- with each other.” to do business where you laney, host of a recent chamber- The evening’s free-ranging are,” he said. “And you’ve sponsored business fair. discussion generated more already got support net- “And let’s not say to the kids, ideas about how to spur on local works in place... family ‘Go get a job.’ Let’s say, ‘What business including setting up a and friends, cost of living kind of business can you start?’” fund contributed to by exist- is pretty reasonable. Business people in the town ing businesses to provide seed “A lot of people say the of 1,600 sponsored the fair, an funding for startups, and low- grass is greener somewhere evening that began with swap- cost commercial space to incu- else. But today technology ping stories among local busi- bate new companies. allows people to stay where ness owners and wannabes, Cam Clark, general manager they are. They don’t have to and ended with a lighthearted for CKLQ/STAR FM radio, one leave to succeed.” Paul Unrau of Ninga pitches his prizewinning product idea — a bit that prepares version of the CBC show “Drag- of the evening’s guest speak- a horse for the bridle — to the assembled judges in the Coyotes’ Den during ons’ Den.” Prizes included free ers, said things have changed [email protected] Boissevain’s Mind Your Own Business fair last week. PHOTO: LORRAINE STEVENSON chamber memberships, offers of mentorship and $1,000 worth of ‘chamber bucks’ for spending locally. The Mind Your Own Business fair impressed Manitoba Cham- ber of Commerce president and CEO Chuck Davidson. He drove out from Winnipeg to see what was happening in Boissevain and said he plans to start talking STOP up this kind of event with the resistant rest of Manitoba’s 67 chambers of commerce. This is about growing local business from within, and dif- IN THEIR TRACKS. fers from the usual approach of weeds trying to spur community eco- nomic development by attract- ing business from outside, said Davidson.

“This is a unique approach and something I’m not seeing in a lot of communities,” he said. “What Boissevain is doing is taking a proactive approach to looking at business develop- Avoid glyphosate resistance by mixing and rotating herbicides. Sidestep glyphosate resistance with an ment within its own commu- nity. I really applaud it for that.” in-tank herbicide solution from UFA. Since glyphosate-resistant (GR) kochia was “ Getting started first identified in southern Alberta in 2011, While GR kochia is the devil we currently know, Speakers such as Kamara Sisson it has reared its ugly head in several new The answer is quite simple: there is much speculation that GR Canada said this kind of support is key UFA carries a wide variety of effective solutions including: to encouraging entrepreneurs counties each year. While it is this province’s to counter resistance, fleabane (already highly resistant in Ontario), like her. She opened a hair salon biggest, most-concerning weed issue to date, wild oats, green foxtail or cleavers could be here after moving to Boissev- producers need to rotate most scientists agree that GR kochia is only introduced or evolve in Alberta next. ain with her husband and their young family. At first, the pros- Alberta’s first taste of what may soon be herbicides with differing For these reasons, all farmers should follow pect of running a business was many glyphosate-defying superweeds. Luckily,“ modes of action... daunting, she said. Neeser’s ‘mix and rotate’ advice. Included are growers have effective tools available to slow “I was terrified to own a busi- those who have experienced GR kochia and ness,” she told her audience the spread of glyphosate-resistant weeds and those who have not; those who farm near fields of about 100 local farmers and manage resistance as it appears—so long as resistance, spraying a combination product will business owners. “I just knew with known GR kochia and those who farm far how to do hair.” they use these tools correctly. stop the resistant weed population from having from the nearest known resistance. She got the advice she needed an opportunity to build up.” through a provincial business “The answer is quite simple: to counter “Dealing with glyphosate resistance is similar start program, but said others resistance, producers need to rotate herbicides Glyphosate resistance can appear in one of are aware of those supports, and to the question of crop rotation,” says Neeser. with differing modes of action, and they need two ways. Firstly, it can be introduced from never pursue their ideas. “Growing canola on canola may be the most “People don’t know where to to mix products so they have multiple modes elsewhere via transported seed. Kochia’s To learn more about how we can help you get the most from profitable option in the short term but it is begin, and I think a lot of peo- of action working at once,” says Dr. Chris tumbleweed nature is ideal for dispersing each your crop’s potential, contact your local UFA Customer Account ple are scared to start, so they certainly not the best thing in the long term. don’t,” she said. Neeser, a weed research scientist with Alberta plant’s 15,000 to 25,000 seeds an impressive Unless you are only worried about this year’s Manager, or our customer service centre at 1-877-258-4500 Electrician Marc Loewen is Agriculture and Rural Development. distance from its original growing location. owner of Copperman Electric profits and you’re planning to sell the farm (option 1), or email [email protected] in Boissevain. He and his wife “Yes, glyphosate is really cheap. But, you’ve Secondly, it can evolve independently in any at the end of the season, the right thing to do moved their young family here for the quality of life in Boissev- got to think: we’re not talking about a huge location. Growers’ overreliance on a single is to mix a second herbicide with a different ain, as well as the opportunity investment to add a second mode of action to mode of action fosters the natural selection mode of action in with your glyphosate.” to start a business, he said. your tank or to change to a combined product. of herbicide-tolerant weed biotypes, leading There’s plenty of work and good opportunity to build your busi- If there is glyphosate-resistant kochia in your to much greater chance of new glyphosate ness because it’s easier to earn area, the value of even just delaying it getting a resistance spontaneously occurring. a good word-of-mouth reputa- start in your field is certainly worth the money tion in a smaller centre, he said. Conrad Klassen, who moved of a tank mix. And if you do already have here last summer to become a regional representative for © 2015 UFA Co-operative Ltd. All rights reserved. Primerica financial advisers, All products are registered trademarks of their joked how he’d miss a cup UFA.com respective companies. 03/15-43311 AFE of coffee from Starbucks if it Albertafarmexpress.ca • March 30, 2015 25 Star power advertising: if it works for junk food… Entertainment and sports celebrities promote the ‘FNV’ (that’s fruits and vegetables) brand

Staff

U.S. organization that promotes healthy eating A is taking a page from the playbook of its junk food com- petitors. It’s launched FNV — a brand focused on increasing consump- tion and sales of fruits and veg- etables among teens and moms. And to promote FNV, it’s enlist- ing entertainment and sports celebrities such as actors Kris- ten Bell and Jessica Alba, WWE Superstar John Cena, musician Nick Jonas, New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz, Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry, Memphis Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton plugs oranges in this screenshot from the video “Prepare to be marketed to,” Grizzlies forward Jeff Green, San the first shot on a new campaign to promote healthy eating. photo: Cam Newton screenshot Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick and Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam New- ton. The campaign is sponsored by The Partnership for a Healthier America, a non-partisan, non- profit that is led by prominent health and childhood obesity advocates, including honorary chair First Lady Michelle Obama. STOP “FNV was inspired by big con- resistant sumer brands, whose tactics are relentless, compelling, catchy and drive an emotional con- nection with their products,” the IN THEIR TRACKS. organization’s CEO, Lawrence A. weeds Soler, said in a release. “We want to do the same thing for fruits and veggies, which have never had an opportunity to act like a big brand. Until now.”

The campaign is designed by advertising agency Victors & Spoils.

Avoid glyphosate resistance by mixing and rotating herbicides. Sidestep glyphosate resistance with an “The days of humdrum in-tank herbicide solution from UFA. Since glyphosate-resistant (GR) kochia was “ health messages and While GR kochia is the devil we currently know, finger-wagging PSAs are first identified in southern Alberta in 2011, The answer is quite simple: it has reared its ugly head in several new there is much speculation that GR Canada UFA carries a wide variety of effective solutions including: over.” counties each year. While it is this province’s to counter resistance, fleabane (already highly resistant in Ontario), biggest, most-concerning weed issue to date, producers need to rotate wild oats, green foxtail or cleavers could be most scientists agree that GR kochia is only introduced or evolve in Alberta next. Alberta’s first taste of what may soon be herbicides with differing For these reasons, all farmers should follow many glyphosate-defying superweeds. Luckily,“ modes of action... Neeser’s ‘mix and rotate’ advice. Included are growers have effective tools available to slow those who have experienced GR kochia and the spread of glyphosate-resistant weeds and “Using our freshly minted list those who have not; those who farm near fields manage resistance as it appears—so long as resistance, spraying a combination product will of celebrity endorsers, we’ll look with known GR kochia and those who farm far to roll out in-your-face market- they use these tools correctly. stop the resistant weed population from having from the nearest known resistance. ing tactics that go toe to toe with an opportunity to build up.” other big iconic brands. The days “The answer is quite simple: to counter of humdrum health messages “Dealing with glyphosate resistance is similar resistance, producers need to rotate herbicides Glyphosate resistance can appear in one of and finger-wagging PSAs are to the question of crop rotation,” says Neeser. over,” said chief marketing officer with differing modes of action, and they need two ways. Firstly, it can be introduced from “Growing canola on canola may be the most Andrew Nathan. to mix products so they have multiple modes elsewhere via transported seed. Kochia’s To learn more about how we can help you get the most from A teaser video for a broader profitable option in the short term but it is of action working at once,” says Dr. Chris tumbleweed nature is ideal for dispersing each your crop’s potential, contact your local UFA Customer Account campaign posted online features certainly not the best thing in the long term. stars with fruits and vegetables set Neeser, a weed research scientist with Alberta plant’s 15,000 to 25,000 seeds an impressive to music, with the words “Prepare Unless you are only worried about this year’s Manager, or our customer service centre at 1-877-258-4500 Agriculture and Rural Development. distance from its original growing location. to be marketed to” flashing on the profits and you’re planning to sell the farm (option 1), or email [email protected] screen. “Yes, glyphosate is really cheap. But, you’ve Secondly, it can evolve independently in any at the end of the season, the right thing to do got to think: we’re not talking about a huge location. Growers’ overreliance on a single is to mix a second herbicide with a different investment to add a second mode of action to mode of action fosters the natural selection mode of action in with your glyphosate.” FARMING your tank or to change to a combined product. of herbicide-tolerant weed biotypes, leading IS ENOUGH OF If there is glyphosate-resistant kochia in your to much greater chance of new glyphosate A GAMBLE... area, the value of even just delaying it getting a resistance spontaneously occurring. start in your field is certainly worth the money of a tank mix. And if you do already have Advertise in the Alberta Farmer Express Classifieds, © 2015 UFA Co-operative Ltd. All rights reserved. it’s a Sure Thing! All products are registered trademarks of their UFA.com respective companies. 03/15-43311 AFE 1-800-665-1362 26 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA IPM: It’s all about combining pest management tools The multi-pronged approach known as Integrated Pest Management can boost yields while reducing costs

also consider a preventive pes- Alberta Agriculture and ticide drench at planting. As the Rural Development release crop matures, the producer might walk it regularly to visually scout hile Integrated Pest the insect population and cull any Management (IPM) has badly infested plant material. W become a catchphrase Producers who are incorporat- in agriculture today, there can be ing these types of decisions into confusion as to what it actually is. their operation are already using “While the mechanics of the IPM. However, it may be time concept are discussed at work- to take the practice to the next shops and lectures, many produc- level, further integrating their ers still don’t understand exactly approach. what IPM is,” said Dustin Morton, Techniques such as encourag- a commercial horticulture special- ing natural predators and para- ist with the Alberta Ag-Info Centre sites, such as beetles and parasitic in Stettler. wasps, or more intensive scouting “These same producers may be and data management for track- Scouting fields for pests and monitoring their populations are key themes of an Integrated Pest Management surprised to learn that to some ing outbreaks or infestations are system. photo: laura rance extent, they are already using IPM important IPM components. and with a little coaching, they “They might also consider other management,” added Morton. the better prepared growers are operation leads to a stronger, could maximize its potential for pest control methods like cover “Regardless of which methods to deal with pest problems that healthier crop and can give grow- their real benefit.” crops, crop-adapted spraying, are used, the more tools used may come along. ers the return on investment they According to the United Nations intercropping or better nutrient appropriately in the operation, “Ultimately, IPM in a growing are looking for.” Food and Agriculture Organi- zation, IPM is “an ecosystem approach to crop production and protection that combines different management strategies and prac- tices to grow healthy crops and minimize the use of pesticides.” “Many growers are not aware that IPM relates not only to insect ‘pests’ but can also encompass weeds, diseases and vermin,” said KICK START Morton. “Ultimately, this is the stage where the term ‘integrated’ in IPM applies: Growers are deal- ing with a multitude of problems YOUR CROP’S health or potential problems in a variety of different ways, all at the same time. It’s this combination or integration of these methods that has the potential to make IPM an & productivity. overall success.” IPM can be thought of as a tool box, said Morton. “In this tool box, growers have many different pest control meth- ods/tools. Some of these tools are familiar such as tillage, rotation, Insure your investment with a seed treatment. With a seed treatment solution from UFA, genetic resistance and, of course, pesticides. But growers may also Farming is risky. If you’re a farmer, you know Seed treatments protect crops from pathogens your crop has a chance to get established be using other pest control meth- “ ods and not be aware that, in you have absolutely no control over most present in and on the soil, on infected residue, before pests and disease can take over. doing so, they are actually prac- of that risk. Volatile markets can throw “Many factors can ruin a or carried within the seed. While some seed tising IPM.” These alternate methods can commodity prices for a loop. Wild weather can crop; a seed treatment can treatments protect young plants from early include tools such as crop timing, decimate a prime crop. Spring can come late leaf disease and root rot infection, the main UFA carries a wide variety of effective treatments including: cover crops, scouting, optimizing ensure that a problem at or winter early, ruining the best-laid plans. role of a seed treatment is to protect seeds fertility to the crop, proper record keeping and equipment sanita- But some farming risk can be managed easily germination or emergence from seed rot and seedling blights. Some tion. “ and inexpensively. If you’d like to maximize treatment brands also contain insecticides The five basic themes of IPM isn’t one of those factors.” programs are: returns from your crop—and sleep better at that help control insects such as flea beetle • Identify the pests of concern; night—experts recommend you consider a and wireworm. Protection against these pests • Monitor the population of the seed treatment. Seed treatments start seedlings shorter crop rotations, have caused more disease helps to ensure a stronger seedling and higher pest in the field; inoculum to accumulate in the soil,” says • Have a point at which growers strong by mitigating many kinds of disease plant population, thereby promoting a strong will move to control this pest; and insect risk, leading to faster emergence, Neil Whatley, a crop specialist with Alberta crop that is better able to compete against • Try, when possible, to prevent stronger plant stands and improved yield. Agriculture and Rural Development. “[This] is later stressors including weeds, foliar diseases, the pest; • Use all tools available (chemi- an indicator that seed treatment may be cheap insects and harsh weather. cal, biological, cultural and “We see seed treatments as a best insurance for many growers in the spring of 2015.” physical) in a responsible management practice and recommend that all A seed treatment is only as good as its To learn more about how we can help you get the most from manner to control the pest. farmers across Alberta use them,” says Lorena Under ideal conditions, seedlings can achieve a coverage. Buying professionally treated seed “Again, most growers may be good start on their own. Many times, however, your crop’s potential, contact your local UFA Customer Account surprised to learn that their man- Pahl, executive director of the Alberta Seed from a certified seed producer or retailer or agement plans have all the hall- Growers Association. “Many factors can ruin a variety of factors conspire against a seedling’s having it processed and treated through a seed Manager, or our customer service centre at 1-877-258-4500 marks of an IPM plan,” said Mor- a crop; a seed treatment can ensure that a growth, including seeding early into cold soil, cleaning plant is highly recommended. If you ton. “For example, a grower may (option 1), or email [email protected] choose to plant a cabbage crop in problem at germination or emergence isn’t one excessive or insufficient moisture or disease choose to apply treatment to your own seeds, a four-year field rotation. If the of those factors.” and insect pressure. When the crop can’t ensure you have the proper equipment and your field previously had cabbage mag- grow quickly enough to protect itself, a seed machine is calibrated for the specific product. got, they might consider planting If you haven’t ever or don’t usually apply a seed a shorter-season variety so as to treatment will give the seed a 10- to 14-day be able to plant later in the sea- treatment, you may want to reconsider for 2015. protective head-start. son and avoid the worst damage from the pest. Furthermore, if it “Higher-than-average moisture conditions over had been a particularly bad infes- the last few years around Alberta, coupled with tation, they might consider a pre- ventive soil drench with increased ©2015 UFA Cooperative Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Always read and follow label directions. scouting as the crop grows. All of Cruiser®, Cruiser Maxx® and Vibrance® are trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. All these are basic principles of IPM.” other products are trademarks of their respective If an infestation was particularly UFA.com companies. 03/15-43310 AFE bad in the past, the grower might ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 27 Think safety before taking equipment on the road Thirteen per cent of farm-related fatalities across Canada are traffic related, and most involve tractors

Heavy wagons should have their Alberta Agriculture and own independent brakes, and Rural Development release equipment should be clearly visible and have proper lighting and sig- pring often means taking nage (including a properly mounted equipment on public roads, ‘slow-moving vehicle’ sign if the S and that can be a hazardous equipment is travelling at less than business. 40 kilometres per hour). According to the Canadian Agri- Red-and-orange reflective tape cultural Injury Reporting program, and reflectors are also a good idea. 13 per cent of farm-related fatalities Tape is sold in kits or by the foot across Canada are traffic related, at farm or hardware stores. Farm and most involve tractors. equipment should also be cleaned “Maintenance is a contributing to increase visibility. factor to the safety of transport- Farmers should check their route ing farm equipment,” said Kenda beforehand to ensure their equip- Lubeck, farm safety co-ordinator ment will fit on all roads and bridges, for Alberta Agriculture and Rural and that there are no low-hanging Development. power lines along the route, said “Poor maintenance of equipment Lubeck. such as brakes or tires can lead to Try to travel during the day and loss of control of the vehicle.” use common sense. In addition to checking tires for “Avoid busy roads whenever pos- air pressure, cuts, bumps and tread sible, even if travel time will be lon- wear, always lock brake pedals ger. If your route takes you across a together for highway travel as sud- rural railway crossing, be aware that den braking at high speeds on only some crossings have poor visibility. one wheel could put the tractor into Always stop and make sure the way A quiet back road is one thing, but hauling equipment on public roads can be hazardous. Photo: Manitoba Labour & Immigration a dangerous skid, said Lubeck. is clear before crossing.”

Some tips on dealing with KICK START the long days (and nights) YOUR CROP’S health during seeding Regular meals, exercise breaks, & productivity. and simply talking to someone will help

Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development release

Insure your investment with a seed treatment. With a seed treatment solution from UFA, Sleep often gets sacrificed during the long hours of seeding, and that can be dangerous. Farming is risky. If you’re a farmer, you know Seed treatments protect crops from pathogens your crop has a chance to get established “ “When you’re tired, you may you have absolutely no control over most present in and on the soil, on infected residue, before pests and disease can take over. think and move slowly, make of that risk. Volatile markets can throw “Many factors can ruin a or carried within the seed. While some seed more mistakes, and have difficulty remembering things,” said Kenda commodity prices for a loop. Wild weather can crop; a seed treatment can treatments protect young plants from early Lubeck, farm safety co-ordinator decimate a prime crop. Spring can come late leaf disease and root rot infection, the main UFA carries a wide variety of effective treatments including: for Alberta Agriculture and Rural ensure that a problem at Development. “Any time a worker or winter early, ruining the best-laid plans. role of a seed treatment is to protect seeds disrupts (the sleep) cycle they But some farming risk can be managed easily germination or emergence from seed rot and seedling blights. Some need to develop a strategy that “ will help their body adjust.” and inexpensively. If you’d like to maximize treatment brands also contain insecticides isn’t one of those factors.” The National Sleep Foundation returns from your crop—and sleep better at that help control insects such as flea beetle has lots of helpful tips for staying night—experts recommend you consider a and wireworm. Protection against these pests alert on the job and for sleeping, seed treatment. Seed treatments start seedlings shorter crop rotations, have caused more disease helps to ensure a stronger seedling and higher including: inoculum to accumulate in the soil,” says • Taking short breaks throughout strong by mitigating many kinds of disease plant population, thereby promoting a strong your shift and going for a walk or and insect risk, leading to faster emergence, Neil Whatley, a crop specialist with Alberta crop that is better able to compete against stretch. stronger plant stands and improved yield. Agriculture and Rural Development. “[This] is later stressors including weeds, foliar diseases, • Working with a buddy. • Exercising during breaks. an indicator that seed treatment may be cheap insects and harsh weather. • Talking with co-workers when “We see seed treatments as a best insurance for many growers in the spring of 2015.” you can. management practice and recommend that all A seed treatment is only as good as its To learn more about how we can help you get the most from • Eating three normal meals per farmers across Alberta use them,” says Lorena Under ideal conditions, seedlings can achieve a coverage. Buying professionally treated seed day and sticking to healthy snacks. good start on their own. Many times, however, your crop’s potential, contact your local UFA Customer Account Pahl, executive director of the Alberta Seed from a certified seed producer or retailer or • If you consume caffeine (coffee, Growers Association. “Many factors can ruin a variety of factors conspire against a seedling’s having it processed and treated through a seed Manager, or our customer service centre at 1-877-258-4500 tea, soda, energy drinks, gum, a crop; a seed treatment can ensure that a growth, including seeding early into cold soil, cleaning plant is highly recommended. If you mints), do so early in the shift. (option 1), or email [email protected] • Avoiding exercise just before problem at germination or emergence isn’t one excessive or insufficient moisture or disease choose to apply treatment to your own seeds, bedtime because it raises energy of those factors.” and insect pressure. When the crop can’t ensure you have the proper equipment and your and body temperature. (Exercise grow quickly enough to protect itself, a seed machine is calibrated for the specific product. should be done at least three If you haven’t ever or don’t usually apply a seed hours before sleeping.) treatment will give the seed a 10- to 14-day “There isn’t a lot farmers can treatment, you may want to reconsider for 2015. protective head-start. do to reduce shift work as it’s a necessity to getting a large “Higher-than-average moisture conditions over amount of work done in a short the last few years around Alberta, coupled with amount of time,” says Lubeck. “The important thing is to have ©2015 UFA Cooperative Ltd. All Rights Reserved. someone available to take the Always read and follow label directions. Cruiser®, Cruiser Maxx® and Vibrance® are next shift at the specified time. trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. All other products are trademarks of their respective When people push themselves UFA.com companies. 03/15-43310 AFE too hard that’s when work inci- dents and injuries occur.” 28 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA New milling and sorting equipment for Cigi The Canadian International Grains Institute still plans to expand, but isn’t looking for funding just yet

for pulses and other crops), Mix- By Shannon VanRaes olab, extensograph, grain-cook- staff ing system, and other technolo- gies will also be added to Cigi’s ome cutting-edge technol- arsenal. ogy is about to be installed “This wide range of equipment S at the Canadian Interna- will give us a huge opportunity tional Grains Institute (Cigi), to add value to the crops we courtesy of $2 million in govern- work with” said Rex Newkirk, ment funding. the institute’s vice-president of “One of the big pieces we’re research and innovation.” getting is the BoMill, which is Fitting the equipment in might actually almost at commercial be a bit of a tight squeeze, but an scale, so we’re currently explor- expansion is being eyed. ing some opportunities to put “This is Phase 1 for us,” said it into a commercial situation Buth. “We’re not actively looking where we can bring people in for funding for a move right now, and commercial partners could not until we nail down whether be using it on a regular basis,” or not we stay here and expand said CEO JoAnne Buth. our facility, or whether we move Previously researchers had to to a purpose-built facility.” travel to the University of Sas- The equipment funding is katchewan to use a Swedish- from the Grain Innovation Hub, designed BoMill, which sorts a joint federal-provincial initia- wheat using near-infrared spec- tive announced last May. troscopy. Cigi CEO JoAnne Buth speaks during a funding announcement. Photo: Shannon VanRaes A Ferkar Mill (a one-stage mill [email protected]

Ask the big questions before Faster harvest. buying land Better Weed Control. Answering 16 Questions to no Compromises. Consider before Buying Farmland is a good way to avoid buyer’s remorse

Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development release

Alberta farmers are still keen to buy land, says a farm financial specialist. “Interest rates remain low and, although some farms have experienced some cash flow problems, the majority of Alberta farms has a strong balance sheet and is interest- ed in purchasing additional land, should the opportunity arise,” said Rick Dehod. But before making a deci- sion, producers should do their homework, he said. The province has created a document to help with that. It’s titled 16 Questions to Consider before Buying Farmland. The questions deal with topics such as the business case for buying land, the farm’s financial condition, and the need for analyzing cash flow. “Buying land in this mar- ket is an important decision, and will impact your farm business,” said Dehod. “Use Timing doesn’t get more crucial than at harvest. That’s why you’ll appreciate all of the resources available the rapid action of new Heat® LQ herbicide. Registered for use in field peas, to do your financial and soybeans, dry beans, sunflowers and canola, it’s the only harvest aid that gives cash flow planning. Speak to your banker, your accoun- you a faster crop dry down plus exceptional broadleaf weed control. Heat LQ tant or your farm adviser. also enables straight-cutting canola for a faster, more efficient harvest. So get Speak to your lawyer regard- time on your side this season. Visit agsolutions.ca/HeatLQPreHarvest or ing issues that could affect contact AgSolutions® Customer Care at 1-877-371-BASF (2273) today. title ownership. A strong purchase plan will aid in making the purchase of land a good investment.” Always read and follow label directions. The document is available at www.agriculture.alberta. AgSolutions is a registered trade-mark of BASF Corporation; and HEAT, and KIXOR are registered trade-marks of BASF SE; ca (type ‘16 questions’ in the all used with permission by BASF Canada Inc. © 2015 BASF Canada Inc. search box).

110201935_HeatLQ_PH_AFE_v4.indd 1 2015-03-17 10:49 AM NEWSPRINT

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said in a release. “However, tory issues because they don’t Staff genome editing raises a regula- require transgenes to make tory issue by creating indistinct alterations to the genome. They ust what is a genetically boundaries in GMO regulations can simply pluck out a short modified organism? because the advanced genetic DNA sequence or add a muta- J Japanese scientists writing engineering can, without tion to an existing gene. in a recent issue of the journal introducing new genetic mate- “Genome-editing technology Trends in Plant Science say the rial, make a gene modification is advancing rapidly; therefore answer is not so clear, and call which is similar to a naturally it is timely to review the regula- for action to clarify the social occurring mutation.” tory system for plant breeding issues associated with geneti- The release says that under by genome editing,” says Ishii. cally engineered crops. current regulations, a GMO is “Moreover, we need to clarify “Modern genome-editing a living organism that has been the differences between older technology has allowed for far altered by a novel combination genetic engineering techniques more efficient gene modifi- of genetic material, including and modern genome editing, cation, potentially impacting the introduction of a transgene. and shed light on various issues future agriculture,” Tetsuya Advanced genetic engineer- towards social acceptance of Ishii of Hokkaido University ing technologies raise regula- genome-editedB:10.25” crops.” But just what does GMO free mean, exactly? Photo: Thinkstock T:10.25” S:10.25”

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BCS10287620_Prosaro_106.indd None Insert Mar16 2015 Lynn.Skinner 10.25” x 11.4286” None 1 10.25” x 11.4286” None NEWSPAPER None None 100% None 2 Monica.VanEngelen Production:Volumes:Product...s:BCS10287620_Prosaro_106.indd Bayer CropScience 10287620 Helvetica Neue LT Std Alberta Farmer 3-4-2015 10:25 AM -- 3-4-2015 10:25 AM -- Olivier Du Tre -- Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black -- -- 30 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Glyphosate classified as ‘probably carcinogenic’ Monsanto questions results of report, which also include diazinon, malathion and parathion

chemicals in the agency’s Group The evidence in humans, IARC AgCanada.com 2A — “probably carcinogenic to said in a release, is from “stud- humans.” ies of exposures, mostly agricul- he decision by an inter- Parathion and tetrachlorvin- tural” in the U.S., Canada and national group of can- phos, meanwhile, were placed Sweden published since 2001, T cer experts to classify the in Group 2B — “possibly” carci- and “convincing evidence that active ingredient in Roundup nogenic. glyphosate also can cause cancer herbicide as “probably carcino- Monsanto — the company that in laboratory animals.” genic” has drawn fire from the first brought broad-spectrum product’s main maker. glyphosate to market under the ‘Increased risks’ The International Agency for Roundup name in 1974, followed The IARC group noted glypho- Research on Cancer (IARC), a by Roundup Ready crops start- sate now has the highest produc- France-based arm of the World ing in 1996 — said the agency’s tion volumes of all herbicides, Health Organization, released report offers no new research or and its use has risen “sharply” its working group’s evaluations data, but instead relies on cer- with the development of geneti- on the cancer-causing potential tain studies while disregarding cally modified glyphosate-resis- for glyphosate herbicide and four others. tant crops. The chemical, it said, other organophosphate pesti- The evaluation of diazinon, “has been detected in air during cides — diazinon, malathion, IARC said, is based on “strong spraying, in water, and in food.” parathion, and tetrachlorvin- mechanistic evidence” — that is, In humans, the group said, phos. evidence based on the product’s case-control studies of occu- For glyphosate, malathion and physical processes. For glyphosate pational exposure in the U.S., diazinon, IARC’s 17-member and malathion, meanwhile, “the Canada and Sweden reported group found “limited” evidence mechanistic evidence provided “increased risks for non-Hodg- of cancer sites in humans, but independent support of the 2A kin lymphoma that persisted Monsanto is slamming the study, but a World Health Organization agency “sufficient” evidence in animals classification based on evidence after adjustment for other pes- has classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic” and has been found for glyphosate and malathion. of carcinogenicity in humans and ticides.” in the blood and urine of agricultural workers. Photo: Thinkstock The group has classified all three experimental animals.” In male mice, IARC said, glyphosate “induced a posi- tive trend in the incidence of a rare tumour, renal tubule car- cinoma” while a second study reported “a positive trend for haemangiosarcoma in male mice.” (Haemangiosarcoma is a cancer of the blood vessels, found mainly in dogs.) Glyphosate, IARC said, also “increased pancreatic islet-cell adenoma (tumours) in male rats in two studies” and a glyphosate formulation “promoted skin tumours in an initiation-pro- motion study in mice.” The group said the chemical get the all new “has been detected in the blood and urine of agricultural work- ers, indicating absorption” and that the detection of amino- methylphosphoric acid (AMPA) — a chemical formed when alberta farmer glyphosate is degraded by soil microbes — suggests humans’ intestinal microbes are metabo- lizing the product. The group’s review also said mobile app now! glyphosate and glyphosate for- mulations have induced “DNA and chromosomal damage” in mammals as well as in human Keep up to date on all the latest and animal cells in vitro, and regional agriculture news with the cited a study reporting increases in blood markers of “chromo- new Alberta Farmer mobile app! somal damage” in residents of several communities after spray- INSTANT ACCESS TO: IT’S FREE! Scan the code ing of glyphosate formulations. • Daily regional news or visit agreader.ca. • Daily market news Available for Android devices, ‘Disregarded’ studies iPhones and iPad. • Commodity futures In a separate statement, Mon- santo’s vice-president for global • WeatherFarm data regulatory affairs, Philip Miller, • Livestock news called out the IARC report for • Machinery tips & reviews excluding “the most relevant, • Crops news scientific data” from the studies • Plus much more! the group mined for its conclu- sions. “No new research or data… was used” in the IARC report, he said, and “there is no link between glyphosate and an Part of the network increase in cancer when the full data set is included in a rigorous Sponsored by review.” Monsanto, Miller said, has put out an “urgent request for appropriate (WHO) personnel” to meet with members of the world’s glyphosate task forces and “other regulatory agencies” to account for the studies used in the IARC analysis — “and, equally as important, to account for those scientific studies that were disregarded.” “We don’t know how IARC could reach a conclusion that is such a dramatic departure from the conclusion reached by all regulatory agencies around the globe,” he said. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 31

It’s getting worse in California Damage from big freeze showing up California’s record drought is about to get worse as the dry season begins, says the Evidence of freeze injury in winter wheat from a cold spell last autumn is starting to show up U.S. Climate Prediction Center. “Periods of record warmth in the West and not enough in parts of northwest Kansas as the crop comes out of dormancy, says a state agronomist. precipitation during the rainy season cut short drought relief in California this winter and The damage resulted from a plunge in temperatures in November, when readings fell from prospects for above-average temperatures this spring may make the situation worse,” said around 16 C to -13 to -17 C in a 24-hour period. It is too early to know how the damage will centre official Jon Gottschalck. The western U.S. is expected to see the multi-year drought impact yields, as plants sometime can recover by producing new tillers, or shoots, in the intensify in 2015 and extend into the northern Plains, the outlook said. That’s expected to spring. Nearly half of Kansas, the biggest producer of hard red winter wheat in the U.S., is lead to another significant drop in California field crop production this year. — Reuters also suffering from drought. — Reuters

How the winds blow and big spring snowstorms A new website lets you see how air is moving around the planet, and history proves that late-winter storms can bring major snowfalls

By Daniel Bezte

o start off this week I just have to share one of the coolest weather- Percent of Average Precipitation (Prairie Region) T related websites I’ve come across in a long time. November 1, 2014 to March 18, 2015 I think it was last year when I shared a link to a website that showed surface winds across North America. It was a website that was actually created as part of an art project and used weather model data to show an < 40% animated map of wind patterns and wind 40 - 60% strength. 60 - 85% Well, it seems that project has now gone 85 - 115% global. If you go to the website: earth. 115 - 150% nullschool.net, you will find a scalable 150 - 200% > 200% Earth — much like Google Earth — that will Extent of Agricultural Land allow you to see current wind direction and Lakes and Rivers speed all across the Earth. You can move around the Earth and zoom in and out to see more detail — all based on weather model data. It might not be actual real-life data, but it’s still pretty close and I find that it really allows you to visualize how the air is moving around the planet. You’ll be able to see areas of high pressure with winds flowing out from one area, and you will definitely be able to find areas of low pressure where the winds are spiral- ling in towards a centre of low pressure. The Produced using near real-time data that has undergone initial quality control. The map page defaults to surface winds, but if you may not be accurate for all regions due to data click on the word ‘earth’ in the bottom left- availability and data errors. hand corner, a menu will pop up allowing Copyright © 2015 Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada Prepared by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s National Agroclimate Information Service (NAIS). Data provided through partnership with Created: 03/19/15 you to make a whole bunch of changes. Environment Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and many Provincial agencies. www.agr.gc.ca/drought I won’t bore you with all of the options, but what you should check out is how the With the official winter season coming to an end, this issue’s map shows the total amount of precipitation that has wind patterns change as you move up in fallen so far this winter as a per cent of average. Over the eastern Prairies it has been a dry winter, with amounts in the atmosphere. You can see this by select- the 40 to 60 per cent range. Saskatchewan and Alberta received more precipitation, with most regions seeing between ing different pressure levels: 1,000, 850, 750 85 and 150 per cent of average. Northwestern agricultural Saskatchewan and the Slave Lake region of Alberta were the hPa, each one representing a level higher up wettest regions with 150 to more than 200 per cent of average. in the atmosphere. If you are even slightly interested in the weather I would recom- mend that you check out this resource. You won’t be disappointed! snow is not an unknown thing to residents In the Edmonton region, the number of centimetres of snow fell. The second-big- Now on to my next topic, spring snow- of this part of Alberta. Looking back through spring snowfalls is not as great as the Cal- gest storm I could find for this region was in storms. (I know — don’t talk about them Calgary’s weather records, I was actually gary region, but the city has still seen its fair 2003 when from April 1-3 45.3 centimetres and then maybe they won’t happen.) very surprised at just how many snowfall share of large April snowstorms. The largest of snow fell. But believe it or not, across the Prairies, days occurred during April. The biggest one occurred in 1955, when between April So, as the stats point out, some of the larg- March and April have seen some of the big- April snowstorm I was able to find occurred 18 and 20 a whopping 47.5 centimetres of est snowstorms to hit this part of the world gest snowstorms. As warm, moist air begins in 1932, when between April 20 and 21 an snow fell. Yet another big April storm hit have occurred in April. its yearly push northwards, cold air from amazing 49.3 centimetres of snow fell. in 1948 when 43 centimetres of snow fell Are we going to see a repeat this year? the Arctic sometimes has a hard time let- Then, only one year later, a storm hit on between April 1 and 3. I really hope not, but as the weather goes, ting go. When the two combine, we can get April 15 and lasted through to the 17th. Dur- The third-biggest storm occurred from you just never know! So, let’s keep our some truly big snowstorms. I don’t have the ing this storm, nearly 46 centimetres of April 6-7 of 1991, when nearly 41 centime- fingers crossed that April ends up bring- time or resources to check out every loca- snow fell. Another 40-plus-centimetre tres of snow fell, with over 36 centimetres ing us perfect weather and that we enter tion across our region, so once again I’ll rely snowstorm occurred in 1966 on April 25-27, falling on April 6. This is the second-larg- May with nice mild temperatures and soil on our three main centres: Calgary in the when 45 centimetres fell. est one-day snowfall record for April. The moisture conditions just where we want south, Edmonton for central regions, and In 2003, between April 26 and 28, 38.5 cen- largest occurred on April 19, 1955 when 38 them to be. Peace River in the north. timetres of snow fell. This storm recorded centimetres fell. The most recent big snow For this study, I only looked at snowfall the second-largest one-day snowfall total event was in 2002 when 28 centimetres fell and did not take into account any combina- for April, when 32.2 centimetres fell on April on April 14-15. Daniel Bezte is a teacher by profession with a BA (Hon.) in geography, specializing in tion of rainfall and wet snow, as this would 26. The largest single-day snowfall total for The Peace River region has seen a cou- climatology, from the U of W. He operates a mostly have been recorded as rainfall at April occurred during the 1932 storm, when ple of big spring storms, but not many of computerized weather station near Birds Hill Environment Canada stations. on April 21 an absolutely amazing 45.7 cen- them. The biggest I could find occurred in Park. Contact him with your questions and Let us begin by looking at Calgary. April timetres of snow fell. 1966 when from April 9-12, a total of 49.3 comments at [email protected]. 32 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

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Monsanto Company is a member of Excellence Through Stewardship® (ETS). Monsanto products are commercialized in accordance with ETS Product Launch Stewardship Guidance, and in compliance with Monsanto’s Policy for Commercialization of Biotechnology-Derived Plant Products in Commodity Crops. Commercialized products have been approved for import into key export markets with functioning regulatory systems. Any crop or material produced from this product can only be exported to, or used, processed or sold in countries where all necessary regulatory approvals have been granted. It is a violation of national and international law to move material containing biotech traits across boundaries into nations where import is not permitted. Growers should talk to their grain handler or product purchaser to confirm their buying position for this product. Excellence Through Stewardship® is a registered trademark of Excellence Through Stewardship.

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Roundup Ready® crops contain genes that confer tolerance to glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup® brand agricultural herbicides. Roundup® brand agricultural herbicides will kill crops that are not tolerant to glyphosate. Genuity and Design®, Genuity®, Roundup Ready® and Roundup® are registered trademarks of Monsanto Technology LLC, Monsanto Canada, Inc. licensee. ©2015 Monsanto Canada Inc. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 33

Troubled canola crusher Elm pruning ban starting considers selling itself The ban on pruning elm trees in Alberta goes into effect April 1. The ban helps to prevent the spread of elm bark beetles and Dutch elm disease (DED). “If elm trees are pruned during the Legumex Walker says it might sell itself or make other strategic moves. The Winnipeg-headquartered Legumex has a pruning ban period, these beetles which are active at this time can be attracted to the scent long history as a major processor of pulse crops, and more recently built a canola-crushing plant in Washington state. of the fresh wound and possibly infect an otherwise healthy elm, said Janet Feddes-Calpas. Its financial performance has been hampered by railway congestion limiting delivery of canola seed to that plant, “Once an elm tree is infected with DED, it will die within that year.” Once the ban is lifted on along with its slow ramp-up to full production. The company posted a loss of $13.1 million for the first nine months of Sept. 30, dead wood should be pruned and disposed of by burning, burying or chipping. Tree 2014. The announcement pushed up share prices but they are still down sharply from a year ago. — Reuters owners are encouraged to hire a professional certified arborist. — AARD release

A HEARTLANDnew type of Prairie inland fishery Consumers are looking for sustainably raised seafood, putting the Prairie provinces in a position to capitalize on cheaper land and pristine water

By Shannon VanRaes staff

t times, Manitoba producers Rudy and Leslie Reimer have felt like A they’ve been swimming against the current. But surveying the tanks at Watersong Farm’s newly built trout observation room, Rudy Reimer said the five years spent developing and redeveloping their self-contained fish farm have been worth it. “There is a lot of potential here — a lot,” Rudy Reimer inside an observation room he said. he built to allow visitors a bird’s-eye view And the potential for inland farmed fish without biosecurity concerns. is continuing to grow, according to Ruth Salmon, executive director of the Cana- dian Aquaculture Industry Alliance. “The demand for seafood is huge, it’s “I certainly think there is been growing at seven to nine per cent opportunity everywhere, the per year,” she said. “And there are lots of opportunities for trout and other species demand for seafood is huge, it’s in the Prairie provinces, particularly using old facilities.” been growing at seven to nine per Not only is demand for seafood grow- cent per year.” ing, so is the market for fish farmed in self- contained aquaculture systems as people become more aware of the environmental Ruth Salmon Canadian Aquaculture Industry impact of traditional fisheries and cage Alliance production. “What’s going on in the industry right Rudy and Leslie Reimer inside a hog barn converted to raise trout. Photos: Shannon VanRaes now is that everybody wants to be Ocean Wise or SeaChoice approved for retailers or wanted. Consultants had recommended a restaurants; they want to be sustainable,” two-pound trout, which is popular in the said Julie Tuk, a purchaser with Mariner food service in Eastern Canada. But the Neptune Fish & Seafood Co. in Winnipeg. market in Western Canada is at the retail “And the best way for fish to be sustainable level, and consumers wanted a larger fish. is for it to be raised in a closed, contained “We’re just at the point where we’re facility — not in oceans or lakes.” starting up again, and we’ll see,” he said. Reimer noted that 50 per cent of seafood “Hopefully everything goes really well this consumed worldwide already comes from time, we’re much more confident that we farms, but many are cage farms located in have the processing side of it and the mar- natural bodies of water, a type of produc- keting figured out now.” tion associated with higher environmental Design problems also arose, as did pro- impacts. cessing concerns as the joint initiative went forward, Reimer said. Complex project “So there was more than one thing But just because the market for fish raised we had problems with, but I don’t want in containment systems is thriving, it to dwell on too many of them anymore, doesn’t mean connecting with consum- because that just frustrates you,” said ers is a simple task. Reimer. “We did get some assistance, so no The Reimers, who farm northwest of matter whether it didn’t all go as perfectly Winnipeg, began their journey in 2008 as planned, the fact is there was financial Inside Watersong Farm near Warren. with a pilot project sponsored by the assistance there.” Interprovincial Partnership for Sustain- stalled. She points the finger at federal over a successful chicken farm, they able Freshwater Aquaculture Develop- Regulatory woes regulations. couldn’t possibly imagine that fish would ment and funded by the Canadian Model With larger fish in the tank, Reimer now “To date it has really imposed a lot of be in their future. Now they couldn’t imag- Aqua-Farm Initiative. plans a two-pronged approach to process- costs and delays that have restricted ine a future without fish and haven’t ruled When the project was first announced ing and marketing his trout when they are growth and investment,” she said, add- out expanding down the road. in December 2008, both the federal and ready to be harvested. ing that while technically regulated by the And while government funding might provincial governments committed just Watersong Farm is looking to establish Fisheries Act, that act never once actually not be on the table again, foreign invest- over $300,000 in funding. By the time the a licensed meat shop on site so that it can uses the word aquaculture. ment, particularly from China could buoy project concluded in 2013, the Manitoba process some of its own fish, while the “The act is there to guide the wild fisher- the industry, Reimer said. government had invested almost dou- rest will be processed at Mariner Neptune, ies and protect wild stocks, which is really “There is significant interest in it,” he ble its estimate — $712,000 — while the which has a federally inspected facility and important,” she said. “But it doesn’t have said. “And we have an advantage on the Reimers covered operating costs, and pro- can ship outside of Manitoba. anything to do with farming seafood and Prairies, a number of advantages actu- vided infrastructure such as a hog barn, “Once they are up and running again, it doesn’t have anything to do with guid- ally… if they’re going to move into closed land and a well. we’ll take all of their product, or as much ing an innovative aquaculture industry.” containment systems, which are basically Not everything went according to plan, as we can get,” said Tuk. “Trout is in big A final report has not yet been issued on buildings on land, our land is still pretty said Reimer, explaining that after the pro- demand across Canada.” the Canadian Model Aqua-Farm Initiative, cheap compared to say the West Coast and ject officially ended, the tanks had to be But Salmon points out that while the but all parties seem to agree that a lot has we have excellent water quality here.” drained and reconfigured to accommo- global demand for sustainable fish has been learned since it began. date the size of fish the market actually grown, growth in Canada’s fish farms has Ten years ago, when the Reimers took [email protected] 34 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Government foot-dragging said to be slowing honey exports Honey council cites lack of residue standards and concerns over Chinese imports

But the number of trade issues for Canadian honey. Then Europe By Alex Binkley is also growing, he said. ruled that honey that came from af contributor Loads of honey destined for GM products had to be labelled Japan were blocked last year when and that has essentially closed anadian honey exports are that country set a zero tolerance Europe to Canadian honey, being hindered because of for residues of tylosin, a common much of which is produced in C government inaction, the veterinary medicine used to com- Western Canada from bees for- Senate agriculture committee has bat resistant American foulbrood aging in GM canola crops. been told. disease in bees. It took five years for Ottawa “We need the Canadian govern- “In essence what happened is to catch up with the European ment’s involvement and atten- that Japan changed its maximum The Canadian Honey Council says that despite recent neonic concerns, rules and labelling issues remain tion,” said Rod Scarlett, executive residue levels (MRL) for tylosin the industry is growing. PHOTO: thINKSTOCK unresolved, he noted. director of the Canadian Honey to zero if the exporting country To deal with bee health issues Council. does not have its own MRL,” said Chinese imports and producers are not subject such as pest, nutrition, habitat Although colony collapses and Scarlett. At the same time, Chinese honey to the same food safety require- and pesticides, the industry has the neonic controversy have The Pest Management Regula- has been flooding into Canada ments. This development has created a Bee Health Roundta- grabbed the headlines, the indus- tory Agency has been working on even though “there is consider- caused some within the beekeep- ble to identify ways to deal with try is enjoying strong growth, he an MRL but has not finalized it, able concern in North America ing community to push for anti- these challenges, he said. said. The number of beekeepers he said. primarily due to quality issues, but dumping action.” He also said that changes to in Canada has increased substan- “We were caught in a grey area pricing is also a grave concern to Another headache is Europe’s the Temporary Foreign Worker tially to 8,777, and the sector pro- where we had no MRL and Japan beekeepers,” Scarlett said. rules against genetically modi- Program are jeopardizing many duced about 81 million pounds of had zero. However, tylosin has “Chinese honey can be pur- fied crops. successful commercial bee honey (worth $200 million) last been used by beekeepers for a chased at about half the cost of In 2010-11, Europe was the sec- operations, which depend on year, most of it on the Prairies. long time.” domestically produced honey, ond-largest foreign destination seasonal labour.

Monsanto scholarship NEW free APP applications AVAILABLE NOW! for 2015 High school grads from farm families entering ag programs eligible

Today’s ag news Staff The Monsanto Fund Opportu- nity Scholarship Program is now accepting applications for 2015. is just a click, The program offers graduating Grade 12 students from farm fam- ilies the opportunity to capture one of 65 entrance scholarships valued at $1,500 each to help fund swipe or flip away. post-secondary studies in agricul- ture or agriculture-related fields. The scholarships are available Whatever way you choose to get to students who: your ag news, we’ve got you covered. • Come from a family farm with confirmed plans to enrol in It doesn’t matter if you download the their first year of post-second- app, visit the website or read the print ary education in agriculture or edition, Alberta Farmer Express has an agriculture-related program the latest regional ag news, data and at a Canadian educational weather you’re looking for. institution; For digital versions, scan the code • Have demonstrated academic below or visit agreader.ca to download excellence, leadership capa- the free app. bilities and a keen interest Available for Android devices, and involvement in their rural iPhones and iPad. community; • Submit a completed application form, which includes an essay that outlines what area of agri- culture they would like to work in and why. They must also have a farmer provide a reference letter. All applications must be post- marked not later than May 29. Scholarship application forms and posters in both French and Sponsored by English are in the process of being distributed to high schools, 4-H clubs, provincial and federal agriculture offices, farm retail outlets and seed companies. Part of the network Application forms and complete program details are also available from Monsanto’s CustomCare line at 1-800-667-4944 or at www.monsanto.ca. Thousands of students have received a total of more than $1.5 million since the program launched using corporate funds in 1991, which has been funded by the Monsanto Fund since 2012. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 35

OOPS!

This trio of deer takes advantage of jumping over a fence with a sagging top strand, near Beaver Mines, in southern Alberta. Photo: Wendy Dudley

T:8.125”

Consult vet when newborn sheep and goats die If a common infectious agent is the cause, steps can be taken to reduce the risk

Alberta Lamb Producers release

Outbreaks of abortions and stillbirths in sheep and goats, and deaths in newborn lambs and kids, can have severe economic impact on a farm’s profit- ability. With the help of their veterinarian, producers can

identify common infec- T:10” tious causes of abortions, stillbirths and deaths in newborn lambs and kids. This will allow the producer to take preventive steps to avoid health risks in future lambing and kidding sea- sons. Several causes of abor- More power to you. tions and stillbirths are due to infectious agents that can Wind speed, pressure gauge, optimal nozzle pose a health risk to the per- settings, check. All systems are go and it’s sonnel who work with ewes and does during lambing time to take down the toughest weeds in your and kidding season. wheat  eld, whether they’re resistant or not. The Food Safety and Animal Health division of With three different modes of action in a single Alberta Agriculture and solution, Velocity m3 herbicide provides you Rural Development with participation of Alberta vet- with exceptional activity on over 29 different erinarians is continuing the tough-to-control grassy and broadleaf weeds. project launched in 2013 to identify causes of abortions For more information, please visit: and stillbirths in does and BayerCropScience.ca/Velocitym3 ewes and mortality in lambs and kids less than 10 days old. Producers are encour- aged to consult with their veterinarian so the cause of abortions and stillbirths in does and ewes and deaths BayerCropScience.ca or 1 888-283-6847 or contact your Bayer CropScience representative. in newborn lambs and kids Always read and follow label directions. Bayer CropScience is a member of CropLife Canada. C-60-02/15-10303662-E can be diagnosed.

BCS10303662_Velocity_104.indd None Velocity Print Ad - Insert Mar 2 Lynn.Skinner 8.125” x 10” None 1 8.125” x 10” Noel.Blix NEWSPAPER None Alex.VanDerBreggen 100% None 2 Monica Van Engelen Production:Volumes:Product...:BCS10303662_Velocity_104.indd Bayer Crop Science 10303662 Helvetica Neue LT Std Alberta Farmer 2-18-2015 10:27 AM -- 2-18-2015 10:27 AM -- Olivier Du Tre -- Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black -- -- 36 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Know the real bottom line before heading out to seed Finance expert says knowing your actual cost of production allows for better decisions on marketing and risk management

This knowledge is also critical Alberta Agriculture and in deciding what risk manage- Rural Development release ment tools are appropriate for a farm, he added. nother seeding season is Financial statements for incor- within view, but do you porated farms will include an A know how you fared last accrued income statement. year? “Items that will affect the cal- “Unfortunately, farmers really culations are year-end numbers don’t know if their farm was for inventories of livestock, crops profitable in 2014,” said Rick for sale, feed on hand, purchased Dehod, farm financial special- supplies, accounts receivable, ist with Alberta Agriculture and accounts payable and accrued Rural Development. interest.” “The majority of farms still These numbers are usually reports their incomes and available from the year-end expenses on a cash basis via their statement provided to a lender annual income tax returns with or accountant or from the farm’s the goal of avoiding or postpon- annual AgriStability returns. ing income tax. Very few actually “The only number that may have an accurate accrual state- not be readily available is the ment prepared to give them a accrued interest at year-end, true picture of profitability.” so that number may have to be Converting cash statements estimated,” said Dehod. “Pro- into accrual ones is key, he said. ducers need to have the required “This will give you a true pic- numbers for the beginning of the Was it a good year or bad on your farm? Only accrual financial statements provide a true picture ture of income and expense year and end of the year for the of income and expenses. Photo: Thinkstock for your farm and whether you accrual adjustments to be cal- made a profit,” said Dehod. “It culated properly for any given capital cost allowance (CCA) tion amounts must reflect true tion, depreciation on building will allow you to make better year. They can also ask their numbers, but those can be quite depreciation of the assets used and equipment could be higher.” decisions into the future and accountant or business adviser different from the actual depre- to generate an income. This To learn how to accrue income fully understand your cost of for assistance in accruing their ciation numbers that should be may be close to 16 per cent for and expense statements go production. You will have a bet- cash statement.” charged as a business expense,” your equipment line and two to to www.agriculture.alberta. ter understanding of what your Depreciation is “the tricky said Dehod. “For the historical four per cent for your grain and ca/farm-manager and enter break-even points are and when one,” he added. accrued net farm income num- machinery storage. If you are in ‘Income and Expense Statement’ you can take a profit.” “Income tax returns may have bers to be meaningful, deprecia- an intensified livestock opera- in the search box.

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Scan the code or visit the website for more information www.agcanada.com/aggronomytv ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 37 38 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Expert questions need to double global food production Sustainable food expert says cutting food waste is the first step in dealing with population growth

“This is not just ‘a supposed’ out,” he said, adding an average By Shannon VanRaes — at most meetings I’ve been at household spends $140 on gro- staff this becomes axiomatic,” he said. ceries each week and throws out “It becomes something that we $28 worth of what is purchased. t rots in fields, storehouses, just must do. We have to increase “Buy less, buy the quality trucks, and fridges — and food production by 70 to 100 per you want, eat it. It’s not com- I there is enough wasted food cent.” plicated,” Martin said. “It’s an to feed one billion people. But before marshalling the awareness issue. Almost every- And that’s why oft-repeated huge increase in inputs and body who I know does not like mantras about the need to energy, as well as land and other to see food wasted, and that increase food production need a resources, to tackle that huge includes farmers who are very rethink, said Ralph Martin, chair task, the focus should be on how good at producing it, they don’t of the University of Guelph’s to better use the food grown now. like to see it wasted either. We Sustainable Food Production “We need to examine waste all have an interest in having a program. first,” Martin said in a speech system that makes sense.” “There’s no doubt that the at the University of Manitoba, Overconsumption is another population is growing,” he adding that means different type of waste, he said. said. “What I take issue with challenges in different parts of While nearly a billion people is the idea that that means the the world. have too little to eat, nearly twice demand for food is going to In developing countries, the that many people compromise grow more than the popula- problem is limited by poor their health because they eat tion.” storage technology along with too much. While the world’s population transportation hurdles. In the Canadian statistics aren’t may increase by 30 or 40 per West, where 40 per cent of food available, but Martin said they’d cent by 2050, it is frequently is wasted, half occurs in homes. be similar to Americans, who on estimated the food supply will “Mostly because we buy too average, eat 1.6 times the amount Ralph Martin says calls to double global food production need to increase 75 to 100 per much, our fridges are too big, of food they need to. are not well founded. Photo: Shannon VanRaes cent over the same period. we forget about it and throw it Less meat? Many cite growing demand for animal protein, particularly from China, as a key reason why food production needs to increase. But Martin said that may not be the case, and that demand for animal protein began to decline in China a few years ago. Citizens of the developed world might Calling all farmers also want to examine their meat consumption and look at adding We need your help to protein from foods like legumes and pulses, he said. tell a story that directly “I think there is still a role for meat and I think there is still a affects your livelihood. role for intensive agriculture, provided it’s balanced with eco- logical imperatives,” he said. “The main thing I’m challeng- ing is that we have to double food production at a time when the population is only going to go up 30 or 40 per cent.”

“The main thing I’m challenging is that we have to double food production at a time when the population is only going to go up 30 or 40 per cent.”

As farmers we need all of the tools in our tool box, be they aspects of Ralph Martin conventional, or organic production. The use of GMO technology is one of those tools and we need your help to protect it. KNOW GMO the MOVIE will be “an uplifting discussion about food” and is going to be a world-class, science-based documentary designed He also challenged the idea to show consumers what the words genetically modified actually that intensive agriculture should mean. It will demonstrate how biotechnology is contributing to focus on crops used for livestock global food security, decreasing disease and conserving land, all in a feed. Arguing that no food fit for sustainable manner. Filming across North America has already begun. human consumption should be diverted to livestock, Martin If you care about how the story of agriculture is being told, we need pointed to a number of ways that your support to make this movie a reality. Please go to unavoidable food waste can be www.knowGMOtheMovie.com to learn more and to donate. channelled back into livestock production to reduce use of feed Robert Saik PAg, CAC grains. Executive Producer He also questioned using the Donations are tax deductible through the hungry-world argument to jus- “Fear sells and is easy to believe. Farm & Food Care Foundation (KNOW GMO MOVIE) tify new or controversial food We made a mistake in not production technologies. “It’s just a matter of having an telling agriculture’s story. awareness about that and not We assumed people understood just blindly carrying on as if we’re We need the help of farmers to tell the story. Please visit frantic and have to produce more what farmers did” and more and more,” he said. lorie farrell www.knowGMOtheMovie.com “There are options that we can Hawaii Farmers and Ranchers United to learn more and to donate. think about. We can slow down a little bit, and take account of what’s really happening.”

[email protected] Albertafarmexpress.ca • MARCH 30, 2015 39

NFU wants government to ! keep non-farming investors from owning farmland Your pension money is at work competing with you for farmland, says an NFU report

cases is a second mortgage on The report summarizes pro- By Allan Dawson the land, the report says. vincial farmland ownership staff According to the NFU, farm- laws. It says there has been land investment companies will progress in Quebec, setbacks in f you want to buy farmland, soon be able to use the cash B.C., and that Saskatchewan is you’re up against some advance program, saving money reviewing its law in light of pub- I tough competition — your “to fund further land purchases, lic concern about investment pension money. thus unfairly competing with company purchases. The Canada Pension Plan bona fide farmers.” “The current policy environ- Investment Board has joined In 2013 farmers received $8.3 ment promotes unaffordable big corporations buying up billion in credit from input sup- land prices, ever higher farm farmland as an investment, the pliers to buy their products, up debt loads and concentration of National Farmers Union says in $800 million from 2010. That land ownership in fewer hands, a new report called Losing Our diminishes farmers’ indepen- thereby systematically pushing Grip — 2015 Update. dence, the report says. farmers out of business,” the ! ! “Farmland investment com- The NFU also says it has heard report says. panies are shifting ownership input suppliers are giving farm- The full report is available at of Canadian farmland from the ers who have used their credit, www.nfu.ca. hands of actual farmers into preferential grain delivery The National Farmers Union says investors are driving those of absentee landlords, thus opportunities. [email protected] up land prices and pushing farmers deeper into debt. recreating the tenant-farmer model that many of Canada’s early immigrants were trying to escape,” the report states. Among its eight recommenda- tions is a call for a law to restrict farmland ownership to individu- als living in the province where the land is located and to incor- porate farming operations and co-operatives operating in that province. It also suggests provincial gov- ernments consider restricting the amount of land farmers can own, as P.E.I. does. “We know that land is the foundation of our culture and social fabric, and here in Prince Edward Island we’ve been able to limit the amount of land owned by big Canadian companies and offshore bargain hunters,” said A NEW PRE-SEED BURNDOWN Reg Phelan, an NFU board mem- ber from the Maritimes. THAT GIVES CANOLA THE FREEDOM The report profiles several companies that have been buy- TO FLOURISH. ing farmland in Canada since ™ New eliminates Group 2-resistant weeds like cleavers 2010, including Bonnefield CONQUER Financial, Agcapita, Walton and kochia that threaten your canola crops. Add Conquer to the tank International, AGInvest Canada for pre-seed burndown that controls the toughest glyphosate-resistant and Assiniboia Capital. Assini- weeds and all types of volunteer canola. boia was formed in 2010 with a Crush resistance with new Conquer. goal of owning 400,000 acres, but sold all of its holdings (128,000 Ask your local retailer for more information. acres) to the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board last year. The companies operate as limited partnerships, so are not 1.800.868.5444 | Nufarm.ca required to disclose financial information. The NFU report says some claim to be eligible as RRSP investments, though that is hard to verify. Always read and follow label directions. The report highlights the credit CONQUER™ is a trademark of Nufarm Agriculture Inc. crunch facing farmers as a result 42101-0315 of high land values, which off- shore investors can use to their advantage by buying land to farmers and then leasing it back.

‘Canola streaming’ The report also targets a new form of farm debt called “canola streaming” used by AgStream Inc., an offshoot of Assiniboia Capital. “The company provides an upfront sum to the farmer in return for a specified volume of canola from each of the next five to seven years’ crops at a fixed price (which may be zero dol- lars),” the report states. “Input Capital then turns around and sells the contracted canola to elevators and canola crushers at market prices.” Farmers must take out crop insurance and AgStream requires a general security agreement on the farm’s assets, which in some 40 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Dealing with hazardous materials on farms Website has user-friendly info on handling anhydrous ammonia, disinfectants, compressed gases, and other hazardous farm materials

precautionary information, and ous materials safety — WHMIS’s grams for workers. They must “Farmers looking for more Alberta Agriculture and worker education programs. consistent labelling guidelines also ensure products are properly information on hazardous mate- Rural Development release “There are numerous hazard- and SDS are just the tip of the labelled, securely stored and that rials can check out the Canadian ous materials used across a vari- iceberg. WHMIS clarifies the the SDS is readily available to all Centre for Occupational Health he Workplace Hazardous ety of agricultural activities,” says roles that suppliers, employers workers for all products. and Safety (CCOHS),” says Hor- Materials Information Sys- Nicole Hornett, farm safety co- and employees have regarding Workers participate in the nett. “It has recently launched T tem, or WHMIS, is more ordinator for Alberta Agriculture hazardous materials. training programs and apply the a national website dedicated to than just a short course for work- and Rural Development. “The Suppliers label containers knowledge to working safely. They WHMIS which makes it easier ers handling pure chemicals. materials WHMIS covers con- according to the guidelines and promptly report missing or illeg- for everyone to access informa- WHMIS is a Canada-wide sys- tain more than just stereotypical provide a current SDS to custom- ible labels, SDSs or signs. They tion.” tem that communicates the dan- industrial chemicals. It includes ers. The label must clearly iden- also report unsafe acts. The new website features up- gers and other information about items you would find on many tify the contents of the hazardous Children and visitors are not to-date reference manuals, fact hazardous materials used in the farms such as fuel, propane, anhy- material and the SDS explains permitted in hazardous materi- sheets, laws, worksite posters, workplace. It does this through drous ammonia, disinfectants, what the hazards are. als storage areas. They need to be e-courses and webinars. Farmers labels on containers of hazard- compressed gases, acetone or Employers plan and conduct kept away from active work areas can access WHMIS information at ous materials, safety data sheets spray paint.” hazardous materials orienta- where there is a risk of exposure www.whmis.org,B:17.4” or call CCOHS’s (SDS) with detailed hazard and Everyone plays a part in hazard- tion, education and training pro- to a hazard. toll-freeT:17.4” number 1-800-668-4284. S:17.4” B:11.428” S:11.428”

LIGHT ’EM UP T:11.428” Resistant or not, powerful Infinity® herbicide provides you with the ability to take out the toughest broadleaf weeds in your cereals. With its unique Group 27 mode of action, Infinity helps ensure the profitability of your farm today and for years to come.

Managing herbicide resistance is everyone’s fight.

Spray Responsibly.

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BayerCropScience.ca or 1 888-283-6847 or contact your Bayer CropScience representative. Always read and follow label directions. Infinity® is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group. Bayer CropScience is a member of CropLife Canada. C-52-03/15-10287626-E

BCS10287626_Infinity_101.indd None Infinity - Insert Mar 30 2015 Lynn.Skinner 17.4” x 11.428” Alex.VanDerBreggen 1 17.4” x 11.428” Noel.Blix NEWSPAPER None None 100% None 5 Monica.VanEngelen Production:Volumes:Product...:BCS10287626_Infinity_101.indd Bayer Crop Science 10287626 Helvetica Neue LT Std Alberta Farmer 3-19-2015 11:01 AM -- 3-19-2015 11:01 AM -- Mia.Yung -- Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black -- -- Albertafarmexpress.ca • MARCH 30, 2015 41 A combination of new additives and husbandry can replace antibiotics If Scandinavian pork producers can go antibiotic free, so can Canadians, says animal scientist

versity of Manitoba animal science banned the use of antibiotics as That long history gives Mani- By Shannon VanRaes professor. feed additives, and now the U.S. toba’s producers a lot of good staff Those with doubts can look to and Canada are also moving in that information to base production Scandinavian countries for guid- direction, albeit through voluntary decisions on. f you think you can’t raise a ance, he said. changes to product labelling. For example, when Scandi- healthy pig and turn a profit “Really, the first step was taken “To put things in context, there navian countries moved away I without the aid of antibiotics, in 1986 when Sweden became the have been questions for a very long from antibiotics by incorporat- think again. first country to outlaw the use of time — right since the 1960s — as ing zinc oxide into piglet feed, While there is no silver bullet antibiotics in livestock diets,” said to whether or not we should be the result was fewer enteric dis- to replace growth promotants, a Martin Nyachoti. “After that a few using antibiotics in animal or live- eases, including post-weaning thoughtful mix of improved hus- other Scandinavian countries fol- stock feed,” said Nyachoti. “This diarrhea. But Nyachoti notes B:17.4” bandry and antibiotic alternatives lowed suit.” has been going on for a long, long Canadian producers won’t be T:17.4” can prove as effective, says a Uni- In 2006, the European Union time.” able to replicate that transition because of Canadian restriction S:17.4” on the use of zinc — it can still be used in pig feed in Canada, but not at levels high enough to be effective on its own.

Alternatives However, Nyachoti said there are other elements that can also be incorporated, including probiot- “I think if we took the ics and prebiotics, the effects of approach that you start which he is continuing to study. “There has been a lot of inter- clean and you stay clean, est in using the probiotics and you can already go a prebiotics together to create a potential benefit, rather than long way in helping these using either one of them inde- pendently,” he said, adding they pigs stay healthy.” can also be combined with feed enzymes, which can then assist in creating the short-chain car- Martin Nyachoti bohydrates pigs need to grow. Egg yolk antibodies, corn- starch, lysozyme and organic acids have also proven benefi- cial, as have more controversial healthy, then they do not have to feed additives, such as blood need this intervention,” he said. plasma. One production method that “Spray-dried plasma was in the made Nyachoti’s list of possible news quite a bit last year, but it changes was outdoor pork pro- is actually one ingredient that we duction, although he acknowl- know works, and has been shown edges that isn’t likely to become to work in baby pigs, it improves a solution for Prairie producers. performance, it improves feed “For us, one of our biggest prob- intake, and it does help prevent lems obviously is the weather, so diarrhea problems in the pig- outdoor production is probably lets,” he said. not the way to go,” he said. “But However, the additive was I think if we took the approach also implicated in the first cases that you start clean and you stay of porcine epidemic diarrhea clean, you can already go a long B:11.428” S:11.428” LIGHT ’EM UP (PED).T:11.428” way in helping these pigs stay “That is something to talk healthy. Then they do not have Resistant or not, powerful Infinity® herbicide provides about on another day,” said to need this intervention.” Nyachoti. But while he advised greater you with the ability to take out the toughest broadleaf Many of these alternative feed attention to husbandry methods, weeds in your cereals. With its unique Group 27 mode additives are already in use in he didn’t go so far as to say less Canada, such as starch. intensive methods were needed of action, Infinity helps ensure the profitability of your “Since we published that first to prevent disease. farm today and for years to come. paper on potato starch, there “Right now the way it is, there has been a lot of people who is the code of practice that says use that in the swine industry,” each animal needs to get so much Managing herbicide resistance is everyone’s fight. he said. “The industry realizes space, and that, I think, is based that it can actually get a benefit on good information,” he said. by including this product in baby “But having said that though, it’s Spray Responsibly. pig diets.” also good to know that restric- Other methods of improving tion in space does lead to stress piglet health and lessening the and that can also compromise To learn more, visit: occurrence of gastrointestinal the health of an animal. But I BayerCropScience.ca/Infinity disease include low-protein diets think that what the industry is and fermented feed. using, the code of practice, is “Fermented products do have determined as being sufficient.” high levels of organic acids and In the end, producers will they can have a benefit to gut likely need to use a combination health,” Nyachoti said. of alternative feed additives, in addition to re-evaluating hus- Husbandry bandry practices, to completely But to achieve good piglet health, move away from the use of anti- and raise healthy pigs, hus- biotics as growth promotants. bandry methods also have to be “Yes the cost of production re-examined. might go up a little bit,” he said. “I think if we took the approach “But you can still competitively that you start clean and you stay produce livestock.” clean, you can already go a long way in helping these pigs stay [email protected]

BayerCropScience.ca or 1 888-283-6847 or contact your Bayer CropScience representative. Always read and follow label directions. Infinity® is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group. Bayer CropScience is a member of CropLife Canada. C-52-03/15-10287626-E AG DEALS TO GO!

BCS10287626_Infinity_101.indd None Infinity - Insert Mar 30 2015 Lynn.Skinner 17.4” x 11.428” Alex.VanDerBreggen 1 17.4” x 11.428” Noel.Blix NEWSPAPER None None 100% None 5 Monica.VanEngelen Production:Volumes:Product...:BCS10287626_Infinity_101.indd Bayer Crop Science 10287626 Helvetica Neue LT Std Alberta Farmer 3-19-2015 11:01 AM -- 3-19-2015 11:01 AM -- Mia.Yung -- Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black -- -- 42 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

Community news and events from across the province

RCMP livestock investigator hangs what’s up his hat — but not his spurs up

Send agriculture-related By Alexis Kienlen meeting and event af staff announcements to: [email protected] pl. Dave Heaslip will be hanging up his red serge C coat and putting away his April 3-6: Easter Light Horse tall, dark boots — but he doesn’t Riding Clinic, Lloydminster plan to give up his horses. Agricultural Exhibition, And when he retires April 2, his Lloydminster. Contact: Sam 45 years and 192 days of service Hardstaff 306-825-5571 will make him one of the longest- serving members in RCMP his- April 6-7: Advancing Women tory. - Life Skills for Leadership – But the longtime Ponoka resi- Women in Ag Conference, Hyatt dent is best known in Alberta’s Regency, Calgary. Contact: farm community for his work as Brenda Driver 403-686-8407 a livestock investigator during the past 11 years. April 10-12/April 25-26: He fell into his unique role Artificial Insemination for Cattle because of his interest and back- Course, Animal Science Building, ground in cattle and horses. GPRC-Fairview Campus, Fairview. While working as a general-duty Contact: Sue Sych 780-835-6601 RCMP officer in Ponoka, he began heading up cattle-related inves- April 11: Alberta Lamb tigations and managed to catch Producer’s “Meet the Board,” several cattle thieves. When his Canalta Hotel, Stettler. Contact: predecessor retired in 2004, Hea- Susan 780-679-1305 slip applied for the job. “I thought I’d just try it for a year April 11: Gardner’s Day, St. Louis Cpls. Dave Heaslip (left) and Christian Reister, the province’s southern livestock investigators, sit atop of their or two and see how it was, but I Parish Hall, Bonnyville. Contact: really enjoyed it. Working with horses, Spud and Duke, as part of a promotion for Banff Tourism. Photos: Supplied Marguerite Vallee 780-826-3240 farmers and ranchers is great,” he said. April 11: Industry Day 2015 (for The province’s two livestock owners and managers of the investigators are the go-to guys It’s hit and miss ARD licensed meat facilities), for other RCMP detachments sometimes, looking Sheraton Red Deer Hotel, Red when it comes to handling live- stock complaints involving strays, for people’s cattle, but Deer. Contact: Ag-Info Centre frauds, thefts, and animal wel- 1-800-387-6030 fare concerns. They also handle there’s nothing better April 11: Small Flock Poultry and investigate major livestock- than finding a guy who related crimes. Workshop, Ellis Bird Farm, Heaslip’s territory ranges from has stolen some cattle Lacombe (also April 18, U of Red Deer to the Northwest Ter- and putting him behind A South Campus, Edmonton). ritories and the Saskatchewan Contact: Agnes 780-430-0319 border, and he and his southern bars.” Alberta counterpart work closely April 16: Solar Energy with Livestock Inspection Ser- Workshop, Center for Sustainable vices. Corporal Dave Innovation, Vermilion. Contact: “It’s hit and miss sometimes, Heaslip Tanis 780-842-4454 looking for people’s cattle, but there’s nothing better than find- April 21: Getting into Farmers’ ing a guy who has stolen some cat- Markets workshop, Garden Valley tle and putting him behind bars,” Cpl. Dave Heaslip, one of the province’s livestock investigators, is retiring advice to ranchers, he didn’t hesi- Community Hall, (Hwy. 627 & he said. “It’s been a real pleasure after more than 45 years of service with the RCMP. tate: Brand your animals. Range Rd. 274), Spruce Grove serving the farmers and ranchers “Using the CCIA tags is one thing, (also April 28 in Olds). Contact: of Alberta.” Canadian Night at the National with the livestock inspector guys,” but putting a brand on your animals Delores Serafin 780-427-4611 Horses and cattle have always Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. It was he said. is another — it just can’t be rubbed been near and dear to his heart. his horse that appeared rider- Heaslip said he is looking off,” he said. “It’s a good piece of April 29: Marketing and Pricing During a five-year stint in St. less in the ceremonial funeral of forward to working his horses insurance for preventive measures for Profit workshop, Provincial Paul, he raised Simmental cattle St. Albert Const. David Wynn in on his Ponoka-area acreage, and to give a police officer, when Building, Olds. Contact: Shelley and quarter-horses, and served January, an RCMP tradition to spending time at home and in they locate them, to be able to prove Hall 780-538-6209 as a 4-H leader. He’s been active honour a fallen comrade. the mountains and travelling to it in court. It’s very important.” in the RCMP’s musical ride and “I will miss the esprit de corps Arizona. represented the force during of the RCMP family and working When asked for his parting [email protected]

Travel the world and advance Canadian agriculture

their findings with others. Appli- ies or for the purpose of further- to produce a written report and Nuffield Canada release cants should be in mid-career, ing existing research projects. present their findings. and be between the ages of 25 “Allowing scholars to further Canadian Nuffield Scholars he Canadian Nuffield and 45 (recommended only). develop their capabilities, we are also required to participate Farming Scholarship They must have a minimum of enable them to be better farm- in the Contemporary Scholars T Trust is accepting appli- five years agricultural business ers, business managers and Conference where they will meet cations for its 2016 program. or farming experience and able leaders and make a significant other current scholars from Three scholarships of $15,000 to step away from their current contribution to Canadian agri- around the world. The 2016 con- each will be awarded to enthu- duties. Recipients must travel for culture “ said Kelvin Meadows, ference will be held in Ireland in siastic individuals, with a pas- a minimum of 10 weeks, with a chair and 2011 scholar. March 2016. sion for agriculture and a desire leg of at least six consecutive Scholars must complete their Applications are due by April to expand their knowledge, weeks. Scholarships are not for project within two years of win- 30, 2015 and forms can be down- pursue new ideas and to share those involved in full-time stud- ning the award and are expected loaded from www.nuffield.ca. Photo: tHINKSTOCK ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 43

1-800-665-1362 • [email protected]

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adveRtising Rates & infoRmation RegulaR Classified display Classified • Minimum charge — $15.00 per week for first 25 • Advertising copy deviating in any way from the words or less and an additional 60 cents per word for regular classified style will be considered display AD ORDER FORM every word over 25. Additional bolding 75 cents per and charged at the display rate of $34.30 per MAiL TO: Alberta Farmer Express, Box 9800, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 3K7 FAx TO: 403-341-0615 PhOnE in: Toll-Free in Canada 1-800-665-1362 OR (403) 341-0442 in Alberta word. GST is extra. $2.50 billing charge is added column inch ($2.45 per agate line). to billed ads only. • Minimum charge $34.30 per week. • Terms: Payment due upon receipt of invoice. • Illustrations and logos are allowed with full • 10% discount for prepaid ads. If phoning in your border. NAME______PHONE_#______ad you must pay with VISA or MasterCard to qualify for • Advertising rates are flat with no discount for discount. frequency of insertion or volume of space used. ADDRESS______TOWN______• Ask about our Priority Placement • Terms: Payment due upon receipt of invoice. • Prepayment Bonus: Prepay for 3 weeks and get a • Price quoted does not include GST. bonus of 2 weeks; bonus weeks run consecutively PROVINCE______POSTAL_CODE______and cannot be used separately from original ad; All classified ads are non-commissionable. additions and changes accepted only during first 3 weeks. Even if you do not want your name & address to appear in your ad, we need the information for our files. • If you wish to have replies sent to a confidential box number, please add $5.00 per week to your total. advertising deadline Count eight words for your address. Example: Ad XXXX, PLEASE_PRINT_YOUR_AD_BELOW______Alberta Farmer Express , Box 9800, Winnipeg, R3C 3K7. Wednesday noon • Your complete name & address must be submitted to (2 weeks prior) ______our office before publication. (This information will be kept confidential & will not appear in the ad unless ______requested.) Published by Farm Business Communications, CAUTION ______1666 Dublin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0H1 The Alberta Farmer Express, while assuming no responsibility for advertisements appearing in its ______WINNIPEG OFFICE columns, exercises the greatest care in an endeavor to Alberta Farmer Express restrict advertising to wholly reliable firms or individuals. 1666 Dublin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0H1 However, please do not send money to a Manitoba ______Toll-Free in Canada 1-800-665-1362 Co-operator box number. Buyers are advised to request Phone 403-341-0442 in Winnipeg shipment C.O.D. when ordering from an unknown FAX 403-341-0615 advertiser, thus minimizing the chance of fraud and ______Mailing Address: eliminating the necessity of a refund where the goods Box 9800, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 3K7 have already been sold. ______At Farm Business Communications we have a firm commitment AGREEMENT to protecting your privacy and security as our customer. Farm • The publisher reserves the right to refuse any or all Business Communications will only collect personal information if advertising for any reason stated or unstated. it is required for the proper functioning of our business. As part of CLASSIFICATION______❏ I would like to take advantage of the Prepayment Bonus of 2 FREE weeks when I prepay for 3 weeks. • Advertisers requesting publication of either display our commitment to enhance customer service, we may share this or classified advertisements agree that should the personal information with other strategic business partners. For advertisement be omitted from the issue ordered more information regarding our Customer Information Privacy Policy, _ No._of_words______x____$0.60____x_____No._of_weeks______=______for whatever reason, the Alberta Farmer Express write to: Information Protection Officer, Farm Business Communications, shall not be held liable. It is also agreed that in 1666 Dublin Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3H 0H1. the event of an error appearing in the published Occasionally we make our list of subscribers available to other Minimum charge $15.00 per week advertisement, the Alberta Farmer Express accepts reputable firms whose products and services might be of interest to you. no liability beyond the amount paid for that If you would prefer not to receive such offers, please contact us at the portion of the advertisement in which the error address in the preceding paragraph, or call (204)-954-1456. appears or affects. Claims for adjustment are limited The editors and journalists who write, contribute and provide opinions ❏ VISA ❏ MASTERCARD Add $2.50 if being billed / Minus 10% if prepaying ______to errors appearing in the first insertion only. to Alberta Farmer Express and Farm Business Communications attempt • While every endeavor will be made to forward box to provide accurate and useful opinions, information and analysis. However, the editors, journalists and Alberta Farmer Express and Farm Add 5% GST ______number replies as soon as possible, we accept no Card_No.___/__/__/__/____/__/__/__/____/__/__/__/____/__/__/__/____ Expiry_Date___/__/_____/__/ liability in respect to loss or damage alleged to a rise Business Communications, cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy through either failure or delay in forwarding such of the information contained in this publication and the editors as well replies, however caused, whether by negligence or as Alberta Farmer Express and Farm Business Communication assume no Signature______otherwise. responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any reader for this TOTAL ______publication based on any and all information provided. 44 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

FARM MACHINERY FARM MACHINERY ANNOUNCEMENTS BUSINESS SERVICES CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT Machinery Miscellaneous Machinery Miscellaneous BUSINESS SERVICES Crop Consulting FARM CHEMICAL SEED COMPLAINTS RON SAUER We also specialize in: Crop Insurance appeals; Chemical drift; Residual herbicide; Custom operator MACHINERY LTD. issues; Equipment malfunction; Yield comparisons, herbicides herbicides (403) 540-7691 herbicides Plus Private Investigations of any nature. With our [email protected] assistance the majority of our clients have received compensation previously denied. Back-Track Wanted - JD 9450 Hoe Drills...... CALL For custom For custom 946 Versatile Ford Tractor, 4,994 hrs, 24.5 x 32 D....$50,000 For custom Investigations investigates, documents your loss and 555 JD Crawler Loader, good condition...... $12,500 herbicides as assists in settling your claim. herbicides as 8070 AC Tractor, FWA, wheel base extended, duals .. $22,500 herbicides as Licensed Agrologist on Staff. 275 MF Tractor, diesel, multi power, 3 pth, new 18.4 x 30, unique as your For more information unique as your front weights, loader available, looks and runs great ...... $12,500 unique as your Please call 1-866-882-4779 B275 IHC Tractor & Loader ...... $3,500 fields, visit: fields, visit: (2) NH P1060 TBH Air Tanks, as new ...... EA $69,500 fields, visit: We know that farming is enough of a gamble so if you 40’ Salford RTS 570 Vertical Till, as new ...... $73,500 want to sell it fast place your ad in the Alberta Farmer DynAgra, a division of Richardson Pioneer 35’ 4590 EEZE-ON Double Disc, good condition .... $36,000 Medicine Hat Co-op Express classifieds. It’s a Sure Thing. Call our toll-free Beiseker Agri Services Ltd. 62’ 820 F.C. Deep Till Cultivator, c/w 4 Bar Harrow Waskatenau - 780-358-2720 number today. We have friendly staff ready to help. & Raven NH3 kit, excellent condition ...... $46,000 Medicine Hat - 403-528-6609 1-800-665-1362. Beiseker - 403-947-3767 44’ 820 F.C. Deep Till Cultivator, harrows ...... CALL 62’ F.C. S75 Packer BAR P30’s, good condition .... $11,000 precisionpac.ca precisionpac.ca 48’ F.C. S75 Packer Bar, P30, pressure springs, new .. $37,500 precisionpac.ca As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow 2003 4300 IHC Service Truck, 466 diesel, 5 speed As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow label instructions carefully. label instructions carefully. Allison auto, crane, compressor, welder, nice ...... $50,000 label instructions carefully. The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. 51’ Degelman Landroller, as new...... $40,000 trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. Degelman Dozer Frame MF 4000 Series 4WD .....$1,000 E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. 41’ Flexicoil 300 B Chisel Plow, 3 bar harrows ..... $12,500 Flexicoil 6 Run Seed Treater ...... $1,000 Round up the cash! Advertise your unwanted equip- 100’ 65XL Flexicoil Sprayer, complete with windguards, herbicides ment in the Alberta Farmer Express classifieds. FARM MACHINERY ANTIQUES elec. end nozzles single tips, auto rate, excellent condition ... $12,500 Machinery Wanted 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 39 15-02-19 5:37 PM 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 29 15-02-19 5:37 PM 10 Wheel MATR (Italy) Trailer Type V-Hayrake, 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 33 15-02-19 5:37 PM For custom FARM MACHINERY hyd. fold, as new ...... $5,000 ANTIQUES 7 x 1200 (39.37’) Sakundiak Auger, 18 HP Koehler WANTED: NH BALE WAGONS & retrievers, any Antiques For Sale herbicides as engine, c/w hyd. pump for bin sweep ...... $2,500 condition. Farm Equipment Finding Service, P.O. FARM MACHINERY 1390 Brandt XL Swing Auger, elec. power swing, Box 1363, Polson, MT 59860. (406)883-2118 unique as your Machinery Miscellaneous spout, adj. axle, reverser, as new ...... $19,500 ONE GRAIN TREATER; ONE grain fanning mill; 225 DOW Kello-Bilt Tandem Disc, 28” smooth front & rear two clothes cupboards; two old trunks; one bee blades, 10.5” spacing, oil, bath bearings, as new ...... $62,500 smoker; old wooden egg crates. Phone fields, visit: ACREAGE EQUIPMENT: 3-PT. CULTIVATORS, 47’ 820 Flexicoil Chisel Plow, 4 bar harrows ...... $67,500 (780)597-3747 Discs, Plows, Blades, Harrows, Etc. (780)892-3092, Wabamun, AB. New E-Kay 7”, 8”, 9” Bin Sweeps available ...... Call W.Buis Holdings Ltd. 8” Wheat Heart Transfer Auger, hydraulic drive ...... $1,500 Foremost - 403-867-2436 New Outback RTK BASE stn ...... Call New Outback MAX & STX guidance & mapping ...... In Stock New Outback E-Drive, TC’s ...... In Stock herbicides precisionpac.ca New Outback E-Drive X, c/w free E turns...... In Stock New Outback S-Lite guidance ...... **In Stock** $900 As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow label instructions carefully. New Outback VSI Swather Steering Kit ...... In Stock For custom The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered Used Outback E-Drive Hyd. kits ...... $500 trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. herbicides E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. herbicides as © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. herbicides **NuVision (Spray Air) & Meridian-Sakundiak Augers, Outback GPS Systems, EK Auger Movers, Belt Tighteners, Bin Sweeps & Crop Dividers, Kohler, Robin Subaru & Generac Engines, Headsight Harvesting Solutions, unique as your For custom Looking for a hand around the farm? Place a help Greentronics Sprayer Auto Boom Height, Kello-Bilt Discs** wanted ad in the classifieds. Call 1-800-665-1362. For custom fields, visit: herbicides as 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 50 15-02-19 5:37 PM herbicides as Hit our readers where it counts… in the classifieds. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Richardson Pioneer unique as your unique as your Place your ad in the Alberta Farmer Express classifed fields, visit: section. 1-800-665-1362. Magrath - 403-758-3162 Retail Greenhouse & Garden Center for sale. 6.4-ac & fields, visit: Crop Production 24,000-sqft of Retail Greenhouses, Garden Center precisionpac.ca Store & Nursery for sale. Natural gas & city water. Crowfoot Ag Services Inc. As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow Patmore Nursery Sales. MLS# 1500592 Solutions Inc. label instructions carefully. Fort Saskatchewan - 780-998-2808 The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered Strathmore - 403-934-2204 trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. precisionpac.ca precisionpac.ca As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow label instructions carefully. As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow herbicides label instructions carefully. The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered Tillage & Seeding trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 45 15-02-19 5:37 PM © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. For custom © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. TILLAGE & SEEDING herbicides herbicides as Tillage Equipment AGCO FINANCE LLC WILL offer the following BUILDINGS equipment for sale to the highest bidder above our unique as your Harmon 2480 Air Drill 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 21 15-02-19 5:37 PM For custom reserved price, for cash, plus applicable sales tax. 1059 PPACEquipment: Classified MF 2015 5470 AB2.indd Tractor 27 S/N: C282066;15-02-19 MF 5:37 PM fields, visit: herbicides as 956 Loader S/N UX7361362. Date of sale: Apr. STEEL STORAGE CONTAINERS, 14th, 2015. Time of Sale: 1:00pm. Place of sale: 20-ft & 40-ft. Wind, water & rodent proof. unique as your agriterra Equipment 10116-132 Ave Grande Prairie, 1-866-517-8335, (403)540-4164, (403)226-1722 AB T8V 4J7. Equipment can be inspected at place Webb’s Crop Services [email protected] fields, visit: of sale. The equipment will be sold AS IS w/o war- Vermilion - 780-853-6565 ranty. For further info please contact Kent Torgal- son (780)993-1140 Reference Number 1369665. Richardson Pioneer precisionpac.ca As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow Provost - 780-753-2355 label instructions carefully. 24-Ft with 9.6-in spacing & packers. Double shoot The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. Carbide Tip Openers. 1900 Air Tank. 150-bu. split E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. Tank; granular tank on the front. (403)740-2799 precisionpac.ca © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. [email protected] As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow label instructions carefully. herbicides The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. herbicides For custom © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 51 15-02-19 5:37 PM herbicides as For custom CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT herbicides as unique as your 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 36 15-02-19 5:37 PM fields, visit: 2004 NH RG200B GRADER air, dozer & ripper, unique as your 5,000-hrs; 2003 Hitachi ZX200LC track hoe & FARMING thumb; Case 621 3-yd loader; D7F dozer ripper, fields, visit: United Farmers PWR shift; New Quonset in crate 52x35x18-ft. $17,000; 1999 GMC T8500 Cat DSL, tow truck, 20- Crop Production of Alberta ft. tilt & wheel lift, $14,500; 1977 IHC 1700 series Grande Prairie - 780-532-1281 floater w/tiler fertilizer spreader, $5,000; 3-Ton ferti- Services Inc. lizer spread $1,500; Rotex SR7 Pwr parachute Sexsmith - 780-568-6060 IS ENOUGH OF precisionpac.ca needs frame, as is, $3,000; Ford Major DSL loader As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow 3-PTH bale fork, $6,700. (306)236-8023 precisionpac.ca label instructions carefully. As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. Hit our readers where it counts… in the classifieds. label instructions carefully. TM ® E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. Place your ad in the Alberta Farmer Express classifed The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPont and PrecisionPac are registered © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. A GAMBLE... section. 1-800-665-1362. E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved.

BUILDINGS BUILDINGS Stretch your advertising dollars! Place an ad in the classifieds. Our friendly staff is waiting for your call. 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 47 15-02-19 5:37 PM 1-800-665-1362. 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 26 15-02-19 5:37 PM

herbicides For custom Advertise in the Alberta 40’ X 60’ X 16’ herbicides as RIGID FRAME STEEL unique as your Farmer Express Classifieds, BUILDING fields, visit: Crop Production it’s a Sure Thing! $29,418 Services Inc. When you go with Crossfield - 403-946-4588 steel you get the right deals! precisionpac.ca As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow label instructions carefully. The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered Pioneer One Steel Buildings trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. 1-888-413-3325 Call toll free 1 (877) 525-2004 or see us online at www.pioneeronesteel.com © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved.

1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 19 15-02-19 5:37 PM ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 45

TILLAGE & SEEDING Spraying EquipmEnt Spraying EquipmEnt HEAT & AIR CONDITIONING LIVESTOCK Tillage Various SPRAYING EQUIPMENT SPRAYING EQUIPMENT Dutch Low Draft Openers LIVESTOCK Sprayers Sprayers Cattle – Red Angus

REGISTERED RED ANGUS BULLS Quiet, Easy Calving, Low to Moderate Birth Weights, Good Growth, E.P.D’s available Guaranteed Breeders (Vet Checked & Semen Tested). Excellent Bulls for Heifers or Cows. JD 9400, 9420, 9520, 8970 4955 JD low hrs, 3 pth, very clean herbicides Cleveley Cattle Company (780)689-2754. JD 9860, 9760, 9750, 9650, 9600 S670/680/690 JD Combine low hrs JD 9430, 9530, 9630 4730 JD Sprayer, 100 ft. 40 Dutch Low Draft Opener Assembly. Removed For custom LIVESTOCK from Flexicoil; New Holland drills. Asking $100 each Case STX 375, 425, 430, 450, 480, JD 8770, 4WD, 24 speed with PTO Cattle – Hereford or best offer. (403)740-2799 [email protected] 500, 530 Case IH 9170, 4WD herbicides as CIH 8010-2388, 2188 combine 854 Rogator SP Sprayer, complete with unique as your HEREFORD BULLS, YEARLINGS & two year CIH 435Q, 535Q, 450Q, 550Q, 600Q JD auto steer, swath pro olds, dehorned, & polled, excellent quality, low birth pto avail. fields, visit: weights suitable for heifers, catalogue online at JD 4710, 4720, 4730, 4830, 4920, GOOD SELECTION OF couleecrest.ca Coulee Crest Herefords, Bowden, 4930 SP sprayers JD & CASE SP SPRAYERS AB. (403)227-2259 or (403)588-6160. JD 9770 & 9870 w/CM & duals AND 4WD TRACTORS Richardson Pioneer CIH 3185, 3230, 3330, 4430, 4420 Stirling - 403-756-3452 LIVESTOCK herbicides sprayers Sheep For Sale precisionpac.ca “LIKE MANY BEFORE, WE’LL HAVE YOU SAYING PLAN TO ATTEND THE 9th Annual Pound Maker As with all DuPont crop protection products, read and follow For custom THERE’S NO DEAL LIKE A KEN DEAL” label instructions carefully. Ram Sale. 110 yearling rams sell by auction. Thurs- The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontTM and PrecisionPac® are registered day May 21, 2015 at Ford Macleod Alberta. Suffolk, • Phone: (403)526-9644 • Cell: (403)504-4929 trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. herbicides as E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. Member of CropLife Canada. Dorset, Hampshire, Charollais, Ile de France, Ram- • Email: [email protected] © Copyright 2015 DuPont Canada. All rights reserved. bouillet, North Country Cheviot & Coloured. Cata- unique as your logue on the website after May 10th. 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1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 20 15-02-19 5:37 PM 1059 PPAC Classified 2015 AB2.indd 35 15-02-19 5:37 PM ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 47

See the lAteSt in the FielD

Welcome to Ag in Motion – Western Canada’s only outdoor farm expo!

LANGHAM 16 July 21 – 23, 2015 15 min. NW of Saskatoon Join us at Ag In Motion – the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with today’s agricultural technology. Experience live demonstrations of field equipment, SASKATOON crops, livestock and services all together on 320 acres near Saskatoon. Come to the farm show where there’s room to see it all – and how it all fits together.

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™ Denotes a trade-mark of Canada’s Outdoor Shows Limited Partnership. 48 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

As third generation farmers, the Jeffries look to us for next-generation advice.

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Visit a branch or tdcanadatrust.com/agriculture

® The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.

0004404_M4256_2A R1.indd 1 4/11/14 4:47 PM

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Job Description: Mechanical Specifications: Contact:

Client: TD BANK Bleed: None Colours: 4C Acct. Mgr: SAIR Producer: BARRY DUROCHER Docket #: 112-LTDCOFU4256 Trim: 9.75” x 15.5” Start Date: 2-13-2014 2:49 PM Crea. Dir: LISA GREENBERG Studio: Kim C Project: AGRICULTURE PRINT Live: None Revision Date: 3-20-2014 2:11 PM Art Dir: - Proofreader: PETER Ad #: M4256-2A R1 File built at 100% 1” = 1” Print Scale: 93.7% Writer: -

Publication: Alberta Farmer Express, Ontario Farmer, Manitoba Co-Operator Comments: None

Leo Burnett 175 Bloor Street E. North Tower, 13th Floor Toronto, ON M4W 3R9 (416) 925-5997 ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 49

Troubled state seeks ‘fresh start’ South Africa takes different tack

Guinea-Bissau is asking donors for nearly $2 billion in aid to fund a 10-year development plan aimed New farmers are turning the soil to profit in South Africa’s old tribal homelands as Pretoria at turning the page on years of political instability in the tiny West African nation. Finance Minister speeds the transfer of land from whites to blacks. Most farmland remains in white hands despite Geraldo Matins said his government is asking for a “fresh start” for the former Portuguese colony government efforts at redistribution. Rural homelands, however, are held in trust by tribal of about 1.7 million people. Amid rampant corruption and weak state institutions, it became a authorities, and locals and agribusiness are collaborating on ways to farm the underutilized soil. transit point for Latin American cocaine destined for Europe, earning the country the reputation as Because the land is not owned by individuals, farmers have trouble getting credit. But many are West Africa’s first narco-state. It has also suffered frequent military coups by an army believed to now being helped by groups such as Grain SA, which consists of mostly white commercial farmers. be involved in drug trafficking. — Reuters — Reuters

Good soil, better plants, make for healthier peopleHEARTLAND and stronger communities A partnership between the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Hawassa is paying big dividends

By Laura Rance Manitoba Co-operator Editor / Hawassa, Ethiopia little yellow seed is sprout- ing big changes for farm- A ing families here in the Great Rift Valley, within reach of the Hawassa University exten- sion services. Chickpeas grown as a double crop after maize are boost- ing families’ nutrition, provid- ing extra income and helping improve the soils. Farmers here have tradition- ally grown one crop of maize, tef, and sometimes haricot beans per year on their plots, which are often one hectare or less, with hopes of harvesting enough of these staples to keep the fam- ily fed. But researchers and extension agronomists have been working with families since 2010 to add a Sefya Leliso and two of her children brace themselves against a dust The Asemo family has seen improvements in their diet and income double crop of chickpeas to the devil sweeping through their parched yard. Photos: Laura Rance following the introduction of chickpeas. mix. The chickpeas are sown in August right after the maize is seven children in a community prevalent in the area, evidenced harvested. about 70 kilometres east of the by the dusty haze that tickles the “We’re trying to address the Hawassa. throat and clouds the view this “I can see the change problem of smallholder farmers “Their face and body have time of year. in the faces of my in some of the areas, the farm changed and the prevalence of But Beyene said the extra crop households whose average fam- illness has decreased,” she said, does improve the soil structure in children.” ily size of six has less than 0.5 speaking through an interpreter. addition to adding nitrogen and hectare,” said Sheleme Beyene, Her family has typically been organic matter. “If aggregate sta- a soil scientist with Hawassa Uni- short of food for two to three bility is increased then the water versity in this city, 270 kilometres months before the first crop is percolates rather than runs off,” Sefya Leliso from the country’s capital Addis harvested in early August. But he said. Ethiopian farmer Ababa. now she has food, including “For this farmer with only 0.5 chickpeas in storage. Partnership hectare, producing maize alone “Now we have sufficient food, The chickpea project is part of with one crop per year is really extra income and clothing for our a partnership between Hawassa protein and calorie malnutrition increase yield, but the concentra- very difficult,” he said. “If you children.” University and the University as well as micronutrient defi- tion of zinc and iron in the plants introduce a new idea like double Kedit Asemo, who farms one ha of Saskatchewan dating back ciency in the world. increased. cropping, it is extremely impor- with his wife Kehirwa and three to 1997. The collaboration “The problem is especially Work is continuing on how tant for feeding families.” young children, said his family has focused over the years on acute in southern Ethiopia, best to make that increase more wasn’t short of food in the past, improving soil health, increasing where three-quarters of preg- available to human consumers Something from nothing but adding chickpeas to the fam- Ethiopia’s post-graduate capac- nant women suffer from zinc through methods such as fer- Improved chickpea varieties are ily’s diet has made all their food ity, and improving food secu- deficiency and nearly half of mentation and sprouting, which grown on land that is otherwise reserves last longer, plus the rity and nutrition through plant all child deaths are associated increase digestibility. idle, using residual moisture that addition of protein makes them breeding and increased biofor- with deficiencies in protein and Beyene said the project has is otherwise lost. An added bonus feel less hungry. tification through pulse crops. micronutrients,” the IDRC report identified a compelling link is the contribution legumes make “We don’t need additional food The various initiatives under the said. between soil health and human to aggregate soil structure and in the daytime,” he said. partnership have been supported Key deficiencies were identi- nutrition. organic matter. by Canadian government devel- fied in vitamin A, iodine, zinc “We can address deficiency The biggest challenge was get- Extra income opment aid. and iron. by applying nutrients, thereby ting farmers used to the idea of Extra production is sold and this Hawassa is now recognized improving the concentration of seeding again right after harvest. year, the cash was used to pay off as one of Africa’s two Centres We are what we eat those limiting nutrients in the If the seeding date was left too the fertilizer he had purchased of Excellence in teaching and Researchers have been tackling plants, and use those plants for late, the moisture the chickpeas on credit. Access to fertilizer has research in agriculture and nutri- the issue three ways: introduc- human consumption. So it links need to get started was gone. helped him expand his crops to tion. ing new varieties that yield bet- soil and plant and human nutri- Additionally, nutritionists include more cash crops such as A research report prepared ter and offer improved cooking tion,” he said. affiliated with the university also hot peppers. by the International Develop- quality, addressing soil nutrient extensively trained families par- Data collected by researchers ment Research Centre, a federal deficiencies, and teaching people ticipating in the pilot project — in several districts now produc- Crown corporation, said that the how to prepare nutritious diets. Co-operator editor Laura Rance is both in home visits and in work- ing chickpeas found they now improved varieties developed by Beyene said research trying to on secondment to the Canadian shops — in how to store and cook contribute about one-fifth of the the program have helped farmers address the human nutritional Foodgrains Bank writing about agriculture and development in Africa. chickpeas to add much-needed family income. in the southern region of Ethio- deficiencies by treating deficient protein to their diets. “ T o t a l l y , o u r l i v e s h a v e pia achieve a twofold increase in soils with zinc and iron fertiliza- [email protected] “I can see the change in the improved,” Asemo said. nutrient-dense chickpea produc- tion has produced some interest- faces of my children,” said Sefya Chickpeas are a low-residue tion. ing results. Leliso, who farms one hectare crop, so they aren’t a big help in That’s significant in a country Fertilizing legumes planted with her husband Kedir and reducing the soil erosion that is with one of the highest rates of into deficient soils didn’t see related story } page 53 50 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA More than a cool idea — fans can be a lifesaver on a hot day An Ontario project found a big payoff from using fans to keep pigs in a stationary trailer from becoming heat stressed

By Lilian Schaer AgInnovation Ontario

esearch shows pigs going to market in the hot summer months are more likely to die in transit R than those shipped during cooler times of the year. Heat-stressed pigs are at risk of collapsing and may die due to cardiovascular failure. Not only is this an animal welfare concern, but heat stress can also affect meat quality. This led Ontario Pork to undertake an innovative pro- ject to try to keep pigs from overheating while they were waiting to be unloaded from trucks at processing plants. “When a truck is moving down the road, heat isn’t as much of an issue as it is when the truck is stationary, like it is when it is waiting to unload pigs at a processing plant,” said Sam Bradshaw of Ontario Pork. As part of the project, a bank or wall of fans was set up at two Ontario processing facilities so trucks waiting to unload could pull up next to them and let the air blow through, cooling the animals inside. Each fan bank was equipped with eight 48-inch bas- ket fans delivering 28,000 cubic feet per minute (cfm) each for a total of 224,000 cfm, and four 36-inch fans delivering 12,000 cfm each for a total of 48,000 cfm. This delivered a total airflow of 272,000 cfm, and resulted in airspeed of 300 feet per minute flowing through the entire trailer, the level recommended to cool pigs suf- This bank of fans creates an airspeed of 300 feet per minute and rapidly cools down pigs in a trailer on a hot, humid day. Photos: Supplied ficiently. Data loggers monitoring temperature and relative front of the fans, they’d start looking around, standing humidity were installed in livestock trailers. On a day up and just being more comfortable.” with an outside temperature of 32.5 C, the temperature Although one of the processing facilities in the study inside a parked truck climbed to 36.8 C within an hour. is no longer in business, the fan bank is still in use at But when the fans were turned on, it dropped to 34.5 the other plant and is scheduled to be expanded to C in only 15 minutes. accommodate more trucks. A weather safety index for pigs states that a tempera- “I think this is something that we really need at all ture of 32 C with relative humidity of 33 per cent is a processing plants. We talked to a lot of transporters “danger” zone, and that status rises to “emergency” during this project and they all said this is just great when the relative humidity increases to 68 per cent, for the pigs,” said Bradshaw. said Bradshaw. “In fact, some transporters are now experimenting “The fans took us from the emergency zone down with on-board ventilation systems that run off a truck’s into the danger zone simply by blowing air through the electrical system and keep temperatures cool during trailer,” he said. “After the trailer arrived at the plant the entire transportation process.” In hot weather, pigs in a stationary trailer will soon be lying and was parked for a while on a hot day, the pigs would This project was supported in part by Growing For- down and panting. But once cooled by the fans, they are be lying down and panting. But as soon as they got in ward 2. quickly back on their feet.

Know your feed before ATTENTION: MEN OVER FORTY buying supplements

In Alberta, 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. All men age 40 and over are invited to If feed quality, amounts, and animal weights visit the Man Van during the scheduled clinic times and receive a free baseline PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) blood test. aren’t known, you can’t tell if supplements are required, says specialist Upcoming Testing Clinics “If the quality of the feeds Alberta Agriculture isn’t known, there’s no way and Rural Development to know if a tub, block, min- MASKWACIS DRUMHELLER release eral or supplement is actu- Tuesday March 31, 2015 Saturday April 18, 2015 ally needed,” said Yaremcio. Maskwacis Health Center Badlands Community Facility Look at the facts before “If there is no defined start- 11:00 am – 2:00 pm 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm buying feed supplements, ing point in the process, says a provincial beef and it’s difficult to know if the NOBLEFORD SIKSIKA forage specialist. actions taken are helping or Wednesday April 8, 2015 Friday April 24, 2015 “After talking to various hurting the situation.” Richardson Pioneer, 1154 Railway Ave Deerfoot Sportplex retailers, one comment There are many feed com- 11:00 am – 2:00 pm 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm comes out loud and clear,” binations for providing a said Barry Yaremcio of the balanced ration, and what STRATHMORE HIGH RIVER Ag-Info Centre in Stettler. you do on your ranch must Friday April 10, 2015 Saturday April 25, 2015 “Sales of lick tubs, molasses fit your management style Strathmore Standard, Unit A 510 Hwy 1 Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex blocks, mineral products, and operation, he added. 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and protein supplements “It isn’t acceptable to are way up from previous copy what a neighbour is MEDICINE HAT years. But are any of these doing because it seems to products actually needed in be a reasonable thing to Saturday April 11, 2015 Visit www.getchecked.ca regularly for your situation?” do. Use a pencil and paper Health & Wellness Show, Southside Events updates on testing clinics near you. Centre But three factors must or computer to figure out 11:00 am – 2:00 pm be known before deciding costs. If necessary, consult For more information on booking a MAN VAN whether supplements are with a nutritionist to bal- clinic in your community call 403.943.8952 or required, he said. ance the ration or, if you are [email protected]. • Are the feeds tested? comfortable with it, use a • What are the weights of ration-balancing program the animals you are feed- such as CowBytes to do the PROUD SPONSORS ing? work yourself.” Media Partner: • How much of each feed is For more information, go supplied daily (i.e. do you to www.agriculture.alberta. know the weights of the ca and type CowBytes in the bales)? search box. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 51

Make a list and CANADA’S OUTSTANDING YOUNG FARMERS PROGRAM check it twice ALBERTA/NWT REGION

before loading a Congratulations to Patrick and Cherylynn Bos of Ponoka as the Bos Farm and Rocky Ridge livestock trailer Dairy on winning the 2015 Outstanding Young Farmers of Alberta/NWT Region. Here’s a list of what to inspect — which should include everything from brakes THANK YOU TO OUR 2015 and bearings to tires and flooring REGIONAL SPONSORS DIAMOND • Wheel bearings: Repack the Alberta Agriculture and wheel bearings on a regular basis Rural Development release and replace as necessary. • Electric wiring and connections: GOLD n order to haul livestock safely, Make sure all wiring is in good there are a few things to check condition. Trailer connectors I on both the truck and trailer should match the truck connec- before hooking on, loading up and tors. Check to make sure that all heading out. the lights (brake light, turn sig- “Knowing the load capabilities nals, and tail lights) on both the of your truck before using it to haul truck and the trailer are working. L-R Patrick and Cherylynn Bos and livestock is important,” says Kenda Make sure the electrical connec- Brittany Long (ATB Financial) Lubeck, farm safety co-ordinator tion is securely plugged into the SILVER for Alberta Agriculture and Rural truck. Development. “Just because your • Tires: Examine for signs of dry Co-operators truck can pull a loaded trailer rot, wear, or damage, and make Cervus down the road doesn’t mean it sure that all tires, including the Zoetis Nominations are now open for 2016 can handle it safely. Drivers often spare and inside dual tires, have AB Wheat Commission See our website for details: won’t discover this until they have the correct air pressure. Con- Viterra www.oyfalberta.com or phone: 403-224-2077 problems manoeuvring the rig at sider replacing tires at least every EQUS highway speeds or find it difficult five years, regardless of use. Now AB Pulse Growers to stop.” is also a good time to ensure that To know if your truck is rated to your tow vehicle tires are strong safely handle a loaded livestock enough for the job. Check the trailer, check the truck’s gross sidewall and compare the load combined vehicle weight rating. rating of your truck to the load This is the maximum weight the each tire will be required to carry. tow vehicle can safely handle. It • Lug nuts: Inspect regularly to factors in the tow vehicle’s weight ensure they are properly tight- (including passengers, fuel and ened. any equipment or cargo) plus the • Flooring: Inspect to ensure it is weight of the loaded trailer. sturdy and clean. If more trac- Lubeck cautions that hitches are tion is needed, install rubber NOW AVAILABLE!! also rated for weight and fall into matting. Replace floor boards different classifications. Before showing signs of wear or rot. you even mount a hitch in your • Battery: If you use battery- tow vehicle, whether bumper pull powered accessories, ensure or gooseneck, make sure it is rated that your emergency battery is Introducing for the loads required. charged and ready for use. It’s important to set aside time • General condition: Look for signs to do a thorough safety inspection of weakness such as warped Weatherfarm of the trailer. This should include: areas, rust, corrosion or cracked • Latches and safety chains: Dou- welding points, any sharp edges Mobile ble-check the latches and the that could injure an animal or safety chains and cables between handler, and that all screws, nuts Weather from hundreds of stations the truck and trailer to make sure and bolts are tight and secure. available on your smartphone! they are fastened securely. Make • Brake controllers: Test and make Available FREE for iPhone & Android devices sure you are using a ball that is adjustments as needed depend- the correct size for the trailer. ing on the weight of your trailer. The new Weatherfarm Mobile app gives you On a bumper pull, safety chains This needs to be done before instant access to an extensive, live-updating should be crossed under the each trip as load weights change. network with current and forecasted weather tongue and be just long enough “By thoroughly inspecting data for your farm or surrounding area. to enable the rig to turn, but not your truck and trailer each year, App features include: so long as to drag on the ground. you reduce the chances of being  Current conditions • Trailer brakes: Inspect the break- caught off guard at an inconve-  Hourly, 6 hour and 10 day forecast data away cable or brake system. In nient and possibly dangerous  Radar & satellite data Alberta, brakes are required on time,” says Lubeck. “Knowing  Weather news & facts any trailer over 910 kilograms your rig is safe lets you focus on  Weather alerts being towed by a private pas- other important tasks, such as  Market and ag news senger tow vehicle. driving.”  Intuitive interface with large, easy-to-read text  More to Come

The Weatherfarm Mobile app gives farmers clear and comprehensive weather information that is essential to their operation. Scan the code below to download the app - available for iPhone and Android devices.

For more information please contact us at: [email protected] Get weather on your desktop at weatherfarm.com

Everything on a trailer should be given a close inspection before hauling livestock. Photo: Thinkstock 52 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

CRICKET HUNTING

Children in Malawi dig for crickets that are considered a delicacy this time of year. These crickets are steamed or roasted. Photos: Laura Rance

Apps could transform Africa Spread of mobile phones, Internet could boost productivity and lift millions out of poverty

more powerful than comput- By Joe Brock ers we had a few years ago,” said reuters / Johannesburg Sami Ibrahim, of Glasgow-based technology startup Cojengo which ider smartphone and developed VetAfrica, an app Internet access has which provides veterinary advice. W allowed technology Growth in agriculture is twice firms to reach remote African as effective at reducing poverty as farmers with apps providing vet- other sectors, aid agencies say, but erinary diagnoses, crop-planting tech firms are also hoping to turn guidance and virtual market- a healthy profit. Cojengo wants places. VetAfrica to build a database it can Africa’s farms have failed to cash sell to African governments, NGOs in because of a lack of access to and pharmaceutical companies. infrastructure, training, capital To spur growth however, gov- and rapidly advancing technol- ernments need to improve trans- ogy. Areas being farmed by Afri- port and power infrastructure, TOUGHER can smallholders are only produc- and banks need to lend to farmers. ing around one tonne per hectare, “The No. 1 challenge for small- compared with seven tonnes in holder farmers in Africa is access developed markets. to credit,” said Kola Masha, The growth of Africa’s middle founder of Nigerian firm Doreo EASIER class combined with a fall in the Partners, which has linked up with prices of technology have opened Swiss RE to insure farmers against up opportunities for investment drought. in farms on the world’s poorest “As smartphone technology continent. becomes cheaper we’ll see an “Africa is key to global food increasingly positive impact.” Tandem™ is the one. supply and we need to unlock its Masha hopes to reach one mil- potential,” said Mark Davies, who lion smallholders by 2025 by pro- runs Esoko, which provides advice viding technology, fertilizer and The easy, total-acre solution for key problem grass to farmers and links them with seeds to farmers, who pay him and broadleaf weeds in wheat. traders in a virtual marketplace. back when their profits increase. Esoko charges farmers $1 a Microtech firms are also pop- • Tougher. Control of wild oats, Japanese brome, wild buckwheat, kochia, month to use the service and ping up in off-the-beaten-track cleavers, hemp nettle, and more. businesses pay between $3,000- areas. • Easier to use. Control all problem weeds using one solution. $20,000 annually. Other recent Botswana startup Modisar apps include a Kenyan cattle- tracks cattle herds and gives • Flexible. Wide application window, rotational freedom, and excellent monitoring app called iCow and advice on feed, vaccinations and crop safety. online marketplace M-Farm, finance by text message. Camer- • Multi-mode of action. which has partnered with Sam- oon’s Mewanko Farm has set up sung. an online marketplace for farmers Go to the new dowagro.ca or call 1-800-667-3852. By 2025, half of Africa’s one to sell fresh produce in a scheme billion people will have Internet it hopes will increase the income Download the 2015 access and there will be 360 mil- of 13 million people. Field Guide App from lion smartphones on the conti- These and other efforts could the iPhone App Store nent. bring hundreds of millions of ® TM Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow. “People who don’t have access poorly organized and isolated 0315-41120-02 AFE or at Google Play. to running water or electricity people in rural communities into have access to a phone that is global markets. Albertafarmexpress.ca • March 30, 3015 53 Increasing food security and nutrition Women get together to learn new ways of preparing the food they grow on their farms

14.6 per cent, according to an By Laura Rance evaluation completed in 2014. Manitoba Co-operator Editor / Katete As well, two-thirds of the District, Eastern Zambia households surveyed were ho would have thought providing children under five cooking could be so in their care with three meals W tasty — oh, and nutri- a day with the other third were tious too? providing three meals a day on As we sat in the shade of a tree average three times a week. outside the Tiyanjane Co-op Society Ltd., members of the Spinoff effect cooking subgroup explained Ruairidh Waddell, program through an interpreter how they consultant for Zambia with once looked upon soybeans as World Renew, said their evalu- a cash crop, not something they ation showed the investment could eat. in agricultural development is Now they are frying them, having a spinoff effect in both making cakes, porridge for food security and nutrition. breakfast and even turning “One of the things we did as them into milk. Cowpeas were part of our evaluation is go talk something to be boiled and to the health personnel from the salted. Now they have learned government that are working in how to make them into sausage. these areas with the commu- “We didn’t know how to pre- nity clinics, and they were very pare chicken with peanut but- adamant that they’d seen a big ter,” said one woman. “A lot of change in the health of children, people in the district know us especially in our household now because of what we pre- areas within the program we pare.” work in,” Waddell said. P r o j e c t o f f i c e r s w i t h a Young children were “gradu- Reformed Church of Zam- ating” from the undernourished bia project supported by the category. Of the children that Canadian Foodgrains Bank were being tracked, “none of and World Renew over the past them have regressed into that Betty Tembo says that local farmers often have foods, but don’t know how to prepare them. Photo: Laura Rance several years have taken a two- category, even with the hunger pronged approach promoting months, so there’s definitely conservation farming methods light at the end of the tunnel.” and better nutrition to about The RCZ project officers 2,100 area families. worked with individual fami- By improving these farming lies to expand the crops they families’ use of soil and water grow that could contribute to a resources, it was hoped they healthy diet. could increase productivity and For example, the Chinyama crop diversification. The second family is now growing sunflow- aim was to help families use that ers, which are processed locally diversification to improve food into cooking oil, cowpeas and security, nutrition and income. pumpkins, the leaves of which “We teach them how to pre- can be cooked like spinach dur- pare different types of food ing the lean months. using our local foods here in “They have been growing all Zambia,” said Betty Tembo, the components that you need project officer for the RCZ pro- for proper diet,” Waddell said. ject. “These people have foods “They have protein from cow- but actually don’t know how to peas, oils and fats from the prepare them; they don’t know groundnuts and sunflower, they how many times to feed their have the staple with maize, they children.” have greenery from the pump- Tembo works to train volun- kins, the pumpkin leaves, and teers, who in turn work with then of course they have an families in their local commu- extra carb from the sweet potato nity. In addition to the cooking too. demonstrations, children were “What we are trying to cham- regularly weighed, and the fam- pion is looking at individual ilies provided with health edu- households and how they can cation. improve their diet with what In the third year of the project, they have readily available,” he TOUGHER the percentage of households said. eating three meals a day had EASIER increased to 25.6 per cent from [email protected] Crop insurance key to mitigating disasters Tandem™ is the one. ture pass a given threshold, have By Chris Arsenault been some of the most effective reuters / rome tools in helping communities The easy, total-acre solution for key problem grass respond to floods, droughts or and broadleaf weeds in wheat. Insurance programs for poor heat waves, Choularton said. farmers today could save tens “The poorest farmers are the • Tougher. Control of wild oats, Japanese brome, wild buckwheat, kochia, of billions of dollars in com- ones who need access to insur- cleavers, hemp nettle, and more. ing decades as climate change ance most,” said Choularton. • Easier to use. Control all problem weeds using one solution. upsets growing patterns and “Safety nets are needed to makes harvests fail. reduce and manage the risks • Flexible. Wide application window, rotational freedom, and excellent An investment of $350,000 in from disasters.” crop safety. disaster prevention for farmers A recent U.N. report put the • Multi-mode of action. — including irrigation systems, bill for disasters at $300 billion crop insurance and terraces — annually, and that cost is spur- Go to the new dowagro.ca or call 1-800-667-3852. saves an estimated $4 million in ring some action. averted costs for humanitarian The African Union, for Download the 2015 relief when a drought or flood example, has set up an insur- Field Guide App from hits, said Richard Choularton of ance fund to help member the iPhone App Store World Food Program. states when a drought hits, and ® TM Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow. Index insurance systems, individual countries are also 0315-41120-02 AFE or at Google Play. where farmers receive a payout building their own programs, if rainfall levels or the tempera- Choularton said. 54 MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Doubling up on triplets — of the same gender With calving about half done, the Dycks have had six sets of twins plus a set of triplets so far this year

are higher in Simmentals and By Allan Dawson Charolais than in Hereford and staff / austin, man. Angus in the beef breeds and GET THE CONVERSATION more common in Brown Swiss STARTED AT orney and Linda Dyck had than Holstein among dairy MY NEW HOLLAND. their first triplet calves in breeds, Dr. Tomlinson said. C 2000. A 1970s study found Brown Learn more at That’s uncommon enough, Swiss cows twin 10 per cent mynewholland.com but the triplets were all heifers, of the time compared to Hol- making the event even rarer. steins at four or five per cent, On March 5, 15 years later, he added. the Manitoba producers had “I know there’s an old study Ask us about the another set of triplets — this from 1920 and the incidence (of time all bulls. triplets) in beef cattle was one in The mother of this year’s 100,000,” Dr. Tomlinson said. “I NEW HOLLAND triplets is 13 years old and has would suspect we’ve made some delivered 15 calves, said Corney advances in genetics over the Dyck as he and his daughter years. We’re selecting constantly PROTECTION PLAN Janelle rounded up the calves for fertility. I would suspect it for a photo shoot. The first time would be down to one out of For Agricultural and this cow calved she had twins, 50,000 or one out 40,000.” followed by single calves, cul- Most twin and triplet calves Construction Equipment minating with triplets this year. are due to the fertilization of two The Dycks have 80 to 90 cows. or three eggs as opposed to split- With about half the herd calved ting embryos, Dr. Tomlinson so far they’ve had six sets of said. That’s why same-gender twins, the triplets, plus singles. triplets are rare — there’s a 50-50 So, how rare are triplet calves? chance each calf will be either USED EQUIPMENT Google it and you’ll get any- male or female. where from one in 400,000 to When the Dycks’ first triplets 2012 New 2004 New one in 700,000 births — which arrived in 2000 they snapped a Holland Holland is not far off the one in a million picture of them with Janelle, who SP275F SD440 chance of being struck by light- was just four years old. Now 18, High Air Drill, ning. But Dr. Wayne Tomlinson, it only seemed appropriate she Clearance Excellent an extension veterinarian with pose with the latest triplets. Sprayer, 4WD, cond., SC430 453hrs, 275HP, TBH Air Cart, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Janelle, who is a health-care Excellent 9” spacing, Rural Initiatives, says Google is aide, plans to become a licensed cond. 5.5” rubber off. While rare, triplet calves are practical nurse, but she’s inter- $260,000 $115,000 packers not “super rare,” he said. ested in farming too. It varies a lot between breeds. 2004 2003 The odds of multiple births [email protected] John Deere Flexi-Coil 1895 Sys 67 Air Drill, Sprayer, Good cond., Good cond.,

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Claresholm, AB 403-625-3321 Triplet calves are relatively uncommon but triplets that are all the same gender are even rarer. Corney and Linda Dyck had their first set of same- 1-800-852-7270 gender triplets — all heifers — in 2000 and snapped a picture with their then four-year-old daughter Janelle. On March 5 the Dycks have another set of www.challengernh.ca triplets — all of them bulls. Corney (l) and Janelle help the mother cow out with some supplemental bottle feeding. photos: linda dyck (top) and allan dawson (Bottom) ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • MARCH 30, 2015 55

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USED EQUIPMENT

NEW & IN STOCK

• Parker Grain Carts 669382 693742 689301 689299 695910 690360 691403 • Rem Grain Vacs 2013 New Holland 1987 Steiger Panther 1000 2011 New Holland T7050 2010 New Holland T7050 2001 Fendt 712 Tractor, 2013 Degelman M34 2013 New Holland BR7090 • Haybuster Bale T9.450HD Tractor, 1950hrs, Tractor - 4WD, 8100hrs, power Tractor, 3100hrs, 165HP, Good Tractor, 3300hrs, 165HP, Good 7750hrs, 110HP, Good cond., Manure Spreader, Good cond. Round Baler, 8650hrs, Good Processors 450HP, Good cond., 710R42 shift, 14’ degelman blade,diff cond., auto command, loader, cond., 18 speed ps, 3 point, 4 vario,50k,loader,grapple,3 cond., Specialty crop, net/ • PRO ALL Medium duals,full gps, 1000 PTO, mega reworked grapple, 3 point, 4 hydraulics hydraulics, 3 function joystick point,540/1000 twine, wide pickup Harrow 70’ fl ow hyd $265,000 $58,500 $125,000 $98,500 $49,500 $85,000 $29,500 HARVEST EQUIP TRACTORS SWATHERS HAYING & LIVESTOCK 0% 36 MON USED 4WD TRACTORS Premier 2952i-30’ 1020hrs,06 ...... $72,500 NH BR7090 auto wrap...... $18,500 0% 30 MON USED COMBINES Westward M155-30’,AS,2 roto shears, canola roller $135,000 NH 1475 16’ mower conditoiner...... $12,500 NH T9.450HD ,2013,1000PTO ...... $265,000 Westward 7000-25’ 1992 ...... $19,500 NH CR9070, 2011,525 sep hrs, gps ...... $235,000 NH TJ430,2007,PS,mega fl ow,GPS,710R42 duals, Heston 8100-25’,pur,2 shears2125hrs ...... $24,500 Jiffy 1105 high dump ...... $19,500 NH CR9070, 2011,550 sep hrs, gps ...... $235,000 1750hrs...... $179,500 Prairie Star 4620-25’ PTO swather, kear shear...... $9,500 Jiffy 600 high dump ...... $3,500 CIH Puma 140,1000hrs,PS,2012 ...... $110,000 Westward 3020-25’ pto swather,pur ...... $9,500 Haybuster 2650 bale processor ...... $9,900 NH CR8090,2013,400sep,dsp,gps ...... $335,000 CIH 9270,6300hrs,PS,20.8R42 duals ...... $65,000 Westward 3020-25’ pto swather,pur ...... $7,500 Artex 1050 high dump ...... $16,500 Swath Rollers available 8” steel & polly ...... $1,200 NH CR9090 Elevation,750sep, gps, 2012 ...... $350,000 NH Powerstar T4.75,2014,20hrs,ldr,grpl,warranty . . $55,000 JF Stoll 1360 for age harvestor ...... $49,500 MacDon M105-25’, 1 roto shear, 2013 ...... $115,000 NH CR9060, 2008,940 sep hrs ...... $175,000 NH 8160, loader,grpl ...... $45,000 NH H8040-30’, 2013, easy steer, 2 roto shears . . . $129,500 Degelman M34 manure Spreader (2) ...... $85,000 CIH STX485 900 hrs ...... $225,000 NH CR960, 2005,1130 sep hrs ...... $129,000 AUGERS NH T7050,PS,3900hrs,ldr,grpl ...... SOLD $98,500 LAWN GARDEN Sakundiak HD8x1600 24hp,mover ...... $6,900 JD 9600,1989, stored inside ...... $34,500 NH T7050,PS,3100hrs,CVT,ldr,grpl...... $125,000 Exmark LZE 691 52” zero tu ...... $7,900 NH MZ19H 52” dec ...... $2,950 Sakundiak HD10x140038hp, mover,clutch light kit $13.900 NH T7050,PS,3point,3300hrs ...... $98,500 NH 840CD-30 like new,cross auger ...... $69,500 Grasshopper T616-48” front mower, powerfold . . . . . $7,900 Sakundiak HD10x1200,31hp,mover ...... $9,500 NH T7.235,2013.PS,ldr,grpl,4 hyd ...... coming in NH 840CD-30, header height ...... $59,500 NH 846 6200hrs,12 spdd std,14’ blade...... $49,500 SEEDING & TILLAGE Sakundiak HD8x1400,24hp,mover,clutch ...... $5,900 Macdon 973-36’ header,pur,trspt, cross auger (2) . . $39,500 NH 9030, 7500hrs, ldr/grpl, EE PTO ...... $39,500 FlexiCoil 5000-39’,9”,4” rbr, 3450tbhnd cart ...... $59,000 Sakundiak HD8x1600,mover,hyd drive ...... $4,900 Bourgault 7200-72’ heavy harrow, hyd tines ...... $26,500 Westfi eld MK 130x71,low pro hopper ...... $7,500 HoneyBee sp36 hdr,CIH adptr,2011,4 in stock . . . . . $58,000 Steiger Panther 1000, PS, 14’ blade ...... $58,500 FENDT 712 VARIO,7750HRS,LDR,GRPL ...... $49,500 Westfi eld MK130x71 low pro hopper...... $14,500 NH 971-30’,header,batt reel, trspt (2) TR-TX adptr $9,500 SPRAYERS NH L220 Skid Steer,200HRS,CAH ...... $37,500 FlexiCoil S65XL,100’, screens, markers, Farmking 8x51xhyd swing ...... offers JD 230-30 auger header ...... $4,500 NH L220 Skid Steer,500hrs,CAH ...... $37,500 SP655 monitor ...... $9,500 Brandt 5000 grain vac ...... $12,900 Linden Agri-Centre Ltd. (403)546-3814 www.lindenag.com (403)263-4688 Sales Manager - Ken Toews 888-8109 (cell) 546-2634 (res) • Ian Anhorn 888-8121 (cell) 631-2260 (res) • Kevin Helmer 373-5554 • Andy Nelson 588-4355 B:10.25” 56 T:10.25” MARCH 30, 2015 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA S:10.25”

ENTER A NEW HARVESTING DIMENSION B:15.5” S:15.5” T:15.5”

DISCOVER COMFORT, PRODUCTIVITY AND QUALITY FROM THE WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL COMBINE.

COMFORT. All-new Harvest Suite™ Ultra cab with 68 ft2 glass and acres of space for unsurpassed visibility and operating ergonomy. Smooth ride SmartTrax™ system with Terraglide™ suspension. PRODUCTIVITY. Largest ever 410 bu. grain tank, 4 bu./sec unloading speed, 34 ft. pivoting auger for greater unloading fl exibility. QUALITY. Unique Twin Rotor™ threshing system, 10% higher capacity with Twin Pitch technology, crop accelerating Dynamic Feed Roll™ for even higher throughput. POWER. Mighty Cursor 16 ECOBlue™ HI-eSCR engines for Tier 4B compliance and 10% fuel savings. Up to 653 hp on the new CR10.90, the world’s most powerful combine.

NEWCR.NEWHOLLAND.COM DEDICATED. UNCOMPROMISED. SMART. www.newcr.newholland.com ©2015 CNH Industrial America LLC. All rights reserved. New Holland is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or af­ liates.

Job # NHL1-BRD-15-02012 None Version # 1 Document Name NHL1-BRD-15-02012 CR Combine 10_25x15_5.indd Last Modifi ed 3-17-2015 11:29 AM Linked Graphics Colors In-Use Job Description CR Combine Print Art Director Justin User Printer Output Date CR_1090_14_049_adv sky.eps CMYK 406 ppi Cyan nc-dyoung-mac NC-StudioColor 3-17-2015 11:30 AM Bleed None Mech Scale 1:1 Copy Writer Justin Logo_CR_ROTARY_40_Years.tif CMYK 2604 ppi Magenta NH_Agr_3D_cmyk_5-5wide_NoShadow_240InkDensity_a.psd Yellow Mechd By: Darren RTVd By: Mullen NC Trim 10.25” x 15.5” Print Scale None Proj Mgr Will CMYK 873 ppi Black NewHolland_120Anniversary_Logo_Blue_F.eps Live None Stock None Acct Svc Steve Folded Size None Prod Mgr Terri CD/ACD COPYWRITER AD CONTENT Finishing None Art Buyer John/Lillian/Langley Colors Spec’d 4C Copy Edit Carol/Marshall ACCT SERVICE PROD COPY EDIT Special Instr. None Mac Darren 3-17-2015 11:30 AM BY SIGNING YOUR INITIALS ABOVE, YOU ARE STATING THAT YOU HAVE READ AND APPRO Publications Alberta Farmer Express, Manitoba Cooperator VED THIS WORK.