Sept 17, 2015

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A WALK IN THE WOODS . . . SOFTWOOD LUMBER AGREEMENT LIKELY TO EXPIRE: B.C. MINISTER . . . BUSINESS ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR FARM BUSINESS – CHANGE OF START . . . ASIAN COUNTRIES HAVE NORDIC BERRY FEVER, AND FINLAND CAN'T KEEP UP . . . NFU WORRIED ABOUT IMPACT OF RURAL AMALGAMATION . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

A WALK IN THE WOODS
Source: NSDNR
You are invited to enjoy a walk in the Oultons’ well managed forest. Mike and Dianne Oulton and family have been stewards of their land for several family generations. Mike has been working on improving their woodland for more than 40 years. The Department of Natural Resources is organizing a public field day at the Oulton woodland Saturday, September 19 in Martock, just outside Windsor. (read more) 

SOFTWOOD LUMBER AGREEMENT LIKELY TO EXPIRE: B.C. MINISTER
Source: Pulp and Paper Canada
British Columbia's Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources Operations, Steve Thomson, expects the Canada-United States Softwood Lumber Agreement (SLA) will expire next month and enter a one-year standstill period. The Alaska Highway News site reports that Thomson made the comments while visiting the ministry’s office in Dawson Creek on Sept. 2. Thomson said his ministry’s position is consistent with the industry’s position, that is, they would like to see the agreement renewed in its current form. (read more)

BUSINESS ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR FARM BUSINESS – CHANGE OF START
Source: NSFA Running a business requires different skill sets beyond production. Through this course we will look at management skills to increase your success rate covering such topics as marketing, human resource management, record keeping, understanding financials, communication and negotiation skills, knowledge of business regulatory issues, inventory control, planning, organization, problem solving, strategic planning, succession planning, etc. This course will start on Monday, September 28 and run each Monday for nine weeks from 10 - 3 pm in the Perennia Innovation Park, Bible Hill. 
smackenzie@nsfa-fane.ca

ASIAN COUNTRIES HAVE NORDIC BERRY FEVER, AND FINLAND CAN'T KEEP UP
Source: NPR
Right now, some 7,000 Thai workers are combing the Lapland wilderness of Finland and Sweden for bilberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries. Each day, they hike into the woods that lie mostly above the Arctic Circle with buckets and simple scooping tools, emerging with up to 270 pounds in berries per person. The pressure to pick as many tiny blue, red, and yellow berries as possible is intense. If the migrant foragers are lucky, can stay healthy, and find good berry patches, they can make more money in one season than they could in two years back at home. (read more)

NFU WORRIED ABOUT IMPACT OF RURAL AMALGAMATION
Source: Island Farmer
The National Farmers Union is raising alarm bells about plans by the Wade MacLauchlan government to encourage the regionalization of smaller municipalities and unincorporated areas. MacLauchlan has made no secret of the fact he feels every Islander should be living in an incorporated municipality. Right now, close to 30 percent of the land mass in the province is not part of a municipal government. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

FEDERAL LEADERS' DEBATE: CANADA'S TRADE DEALS NEED INDEPENDENT ANALYSIS, NOT CORPORATE CHEERLEADING
http://canadians.org/media/federal-leaders-debate-canadas-trade-deals-need-independent-analysis-not-corporate

DIXON’S BEEF FARM A POPULAR VENDOR AT SACKVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET
http://www.sackvilletribunepost.com/living/2015/9/9/dixon_s-beef-farm-a-popular-vendor-at-sackville-farmers-market.html

BRITISH LABOUR PARTY APPOINTS VEGAN TO DEAL WITH FARMING ISSUES
http://www.thebeefsite.com/news/48601/british-labour-party-appoints-vegan-to-deal-with-farming-issues/

INTEGRATED BIOENERGY AND FOOD PRODUCTION – A GERMAN SURVEY ON STRUCTURE AND DEVELOPMENTS OF ANAEROBIC DIGESTION IN ORGANIC FARMING SYSTEMS
http://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/7/8/10709

Sept 16, 2015

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HOLLAND COLLEGE TO ESTABLISH GARDEN IN MEMORY OF RAYMOND LOO … FOOD SHOW LINKS N.S. PRODUCERS AND CONSUMERS … WOOD PELLETS IN HIGH DEMAND AND SHORT SUPPLY … FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT FOR YOUR FARM BUSINESS (Please note new dates and location) … BY-PRODUCT FEEDS FOR SHEEP OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

HOLLAND COLLEGE TO ESTABLISH GARDEN IN MEMORY OF RAYMOND LOO
Source: Island Farmer
An organic garden in memory of the late Raymond Loo is being established on the Prince of Wales campus of Holland College in Charlottetown. Loo, who passed away in 2013 at the age of 51, was the founding president of the PEI Certified Organic Producers Cooperative. He was also a Nuffield Scholar and sold organic products around the world. (read more)

FOOD SHOW LINKS N.S. PRODUCERS AND CONSUMERS
Source: Farm Focus
Cape Bretoners will be able to experience the harvest of Cape Breton during the Celtic Colours Farm and Food Fair. The focus of the Sydney food show is to raise public awareness of Cape Breton-produced farm and food products, including seafood. The one-day event will take place at Centre 200 in Sydney Saturday, Oct. 10, and will showcase Cape Breton farm, fish, and food products. It will be held in conjunction with the launch of the Celtic Colours International Festival. (read more)

WOOD PELLETS IN HIGH DEMAND AND SHORT SUPPLY
Source: CBC.ca
Wood pellets have become a favorite for those who shy away from electricity or fuel to heat their home. But they're becoming harder to find.  (read more)

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT FOR YOUR FARM BUSINESS (Please note new dates and location)
Source:NSFA
Are you tired of wondering where your profits have gone? Is your business positioned to optimize profits? This 40 hour customized Workplace Education program will help your farm build the skills, knowledge, and performance needed to take advantage of sound financial decisions. This course will take place on Tuesday evenings from 5 – 9 pm starting on September 29 and running for 10 weeks and to be held at the South Shore Library, 135 North Park St., Bridgewater. 
smackenzie@nsfa-fane.ca

BY-PRODUCT FEEDS FOR SHEEP
Source: AB Agriculture and Forestry
Dry conditions, short supplies of forage, expensive supplements, and tight profit margins have many sheep  producers looking for alternate feed sources. “Canola or grain screenings, potato waste, grass seed cleanings or beet pulp are just a few of the by-products that can be used to feed sheep. By-product feeds become available when a traditional feed ingredient is processed into another product, such as the alfalfa fines from an alfalfa cubing plant.” It is important to know the availability, supply, and price of a by-product before incorporating it into a flock feeding program. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

BASIM HALEF EYES EXHIBITON PARK
http://www.allnovascotia.com/#

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR BASIS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF GUIDANCE RELATED TO HYDRAULIC FRACTURING
http://www.nr.gov.nl.ca/nr/energy/pdf/nl_hydraulic%20fracturing_pt1.pdf

N.B. OPEN FARM DAY
http://www.fermenbfarm.ca/home/welcome/

ORGANIC WEEK 2015
http://www.acornorganic.org/events/calendar/organic-week-2015

Sept 15, 2015

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EXHIBITION OLDEST CONTINUOUSLY RUN AGRICULTURAL FAIR IN NORTH AMERICA . . . GRAZING STUBBLE FIELDS . . . REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ISSUED FOR WILD BLUEBERRY DEVELOPMENT . . . NSIA'S ANNUAL FALL TOUR – AGRICULTURAL BIODIVERISTY (WINDSOR/FALMOUTH AREA) . . . MPANS FALL MAPLE TOUR . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

EXHIBITION OLDEST CONTINUOUSLY RUN AGRICULTURAL FAIR IN NORTH AMERICA
Source: The Chronicle Herald For 250 years, people have been bringing livestock to the Hants County Exhibition in Windsor. A lot has changed in that time, and David Coombes and Jim MacDonald have seen a lot of those changes. Coombes has been the exhibition manager for 50 years, while MacDonald has been operations manager for 57. ‟We haven't changed, we've just gotten older," Coombes said Sunday with a laugh. (read more)

GRAZING STUBBLE FIELDS
Source: AB Agriculture and Forestry
“Turning cows out onto stubble fields is a good way to utilize forage resources,” says Barry Yaremcio, beef/forage specialist, Alberta Ag-Info Centre, Stettler. “They will pick and choose what they eat from the straw, chaff, weed seeds in the stubble, slough hay from the low areas, and mature hay growing along the fences and headlands. Quality of what they eat can be variable depending on the type of crop grown, fertility program, and stage of maturity when the crop was cut or harvested. The combine setting – the amount of light grain and weed seeds thrown out onto the ground will impact what the cows eat as well.”  (read more)

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ISSUED FOR WILD BLUEBERRY DEVELOPMENT
Source: N.S. Dept of Natural Resources/Agriculture
Government has issued a request for proposals to grow, manage, and harvest wild blueberries on Crown land. "Government is committed to striking the right balance between the economic, social, and environmental values of Nova Scotia's natural resources," said Andrew Younger, acting Minister of Natural Resources. "We are looking to unlock the value of our land by exploring various options." Six Crown land sites in Cumberland County have been identified as potential areas for wild blueberry fields.  (read more)

NSIA'S ANNUAL FALL TOUR – AGRICULTURAL BIODIVERISTY (WINDSOR/FALMOUTH AREA)
Source: NS Agrologists
NSIA’s Annual Fall Tour, Friday, October 2; 9:30 am, Terracing on Bovidae Farm – The Wilson's; 11 am, Biodiversity, Acadian Archeological Tour and Lunch at Castle Frederick Farm – The Bremner's; 1:30 pm, Biodiversity Tour W.G Oulton & Sons – The Oulton's
Cost, $20 per member, $25 per non-member (includes lunch). Registration deadline is September 25. Car Pooling from Perennia Innovation Park, Truro or Kentville Research Station available.  (read more)

MPANS FALL MAPLE TOUR
Source: MPANS
The MPANS program committee has put together an interesting and informative 2015 fall tour scheduled for Saturday, September 26, in Antigonish County. Registration at 9am at Haveracres Maple Farm in Antigonish. Contact the association for more details.
MPANS DaleMcIsaac@eastlink.ca

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

U.S. MEAT CONSUMPTION TO GROW
http://www.thepoultrysite.com/poultrynews/35784/us-meat-consumption-to-grow/

MEDITERRANEAN DIET WITH EXTRA OLIVE OIL MAY LOWER BREAST CANCER RISK
http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/09/14/439241950/mediterranean-diet-with-extra-olive-oil-may-lower-breast-cancer-risk

BATS PERFORM “VITAL PEST CONTROL’ ON CROPS
http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-34246501

ANNUAL SALES PLANS ARE A WIN-WIN
http://www.thegrower.org/readnews.php?id=0u7d6d7t9j9u

Sept 14, 2015

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CROP INSURANCE REMINDER FOR BLUEBERRY GROWERS . . . AG PROGRAM ENROLLMENT THRIVES AT UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN . . . TAKE CONTROL: HOW TO TAME YOUR ENERGY COSTS IN A WILD MARKET . . . FLYING DRONES MAY EMERGE AS INTEGRAL FARMING TOOL . . . MBTS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR 2015 WINTER TEST . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

CROP INSURANCE REMINDER FOR BLUEBERRY GROWERS
Source: NSFA
The final harvest date for lowbush blueberries in the crop insurance program is September 15, 2015. If you anticipate that your harvest will not be completed by this date, notify the Nova Scotia Crop and Livestock Insurance Commission offices within five days (September 20 at the latest) that your harvest is extending past September 15. Late reporting could affect the outcome of any potential claim.
Contact the Commission at 902-893-6370 or toll free at 1-800-565-6371

AG PROGRAM ENROLLMENT THRIVES AT UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN
Source: FCC
The fastest growing enrollment at the University of Saskatchewan is in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources. Student numbers are up 11.5 per over last year – well above the 0.6 percent increase recorded for the university as a whole. It's also the latest in a string of similar increases over the past five years. There are more than 1,100 undergraduate students pursuing bachelor degrees and another 275 graduate students enrolled in Master's and PhD programs. (read more)

TAKE CONTROL: HOW TO TAME YOUR ENERGY COSTS IN A WILD MARKET
Source: Pulp & Paper Canada
The rapid increase in electricity costs in the past five years has been challenging for business. Politics, clean energy initiatives, and the economy – they all affect the energy market and they have all had their part to play in rising prices. But that doesn’t mean you are powerless. (read more)

FLYING DRONES MAY EMERGE AS INTEGRAL FARMING TOOL
Source: CBC.ca
Flying drones may become a useful technology for Prince Edward Island farmers who are looking for ways to use fewer chemicals on their fields. A flying drone was high above a Spring Valley potato field Friday as part of a 4-R Nutrient Stewardship demonstration. This group of farmers are interested in better managing their crops while protecting the environment at the same time. (read more)

MBTS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR 2015 WINTER TEST
Source: NSCP
The Maritime Beef Test Society is now accepting bull applications for the 2015-16 winter test. Applications must be returned to the Test Station office by October 23, 2015. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

ARGENTINE ANTS CARRY VIRUS DEADLY TO HONEYBEES
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/09/15/science/argentine-ants-carry-virus-deadly-to-honeybees.html?hpw&rref=science&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&module=well-region&region=bottom-well&WT.nav=bottom-well&_r=0

BUZZ CLUB FIGHTS TO SAVE THE BRITISH BEE
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-34187155

FARMERS USE PIGS TO KEEP CATTLE CALM
http://www.thebeefsite.com/news/48578/farmers-use-pigs-to-keep-cattle-calm/

TOUGH TIMES IN THE MEAT CASE
http://www.canadiancattlemen.ca/2015/09/11/tough-times-in-the-meat-case/?module=popular&pgtype=article&i=

Sept 11, 2015

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NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR THE ORGANIC AWARD HONORING OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS IN ATLANTIC CANADA . . . WHY SOME CANADIAN MAPLE SYRUP PRODUCERS ARE DEFYING THEIR “CARTEL” . . . NOMINATIONS SOUGHT FOR FAMILIES TO BE RECOGNIZED DURING BREEDER’S CROWN . . . BUSINESS ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR FARM BUSINESS . . . FOREIGN MATERIAL DETECTION PROGRAM 2015-2016 . . .OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...


NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR THE ORGANIC AWARD HONORING OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS IN ATLANTIC CANADA
Source: ACORN
ACORN’s Annual Gerrit Loo Award is presented at the ACORN Conference each year. If you know someone who has made a significant contribution to organics in Atlantic Canada and would like to nominate them, please see the nomination form. Deadline for all nominations is Friday, October 16. (read more)

WHY SOME CANADIAN MAPLE SYRUP PRODUCERS ARE DEFYING THEIR “CARTEL”
Source: NPR
Steve Côté has had his product confiscated. He’s been under 24-hour surveillance. And he faces hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines. Côté says you’d think he was dealing drugs. But it’s maple syrup from his very own trees that has him in hot water. In the Canadian province of Quebec, maple syrup producers are subject to the whims of the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers, a nongovernmental organization that sets production quotas and, effectively, the price of the world maple market. Nearly all commercial producers of maple syrup in Quebec must sell their product through the federation, which promises to defend their interests, keep the business lucrative, and market their product. (read more)

NOMINATIONS SOUGHT FOR FAMILIES TO BE RECOGNIZED DURING BREEDER’S CROWN
Source: Island Farmer
The Host Committee of the 2015 Atlantic Breeders Crown will again recognize Atlantic harness racing families for their long-term contribution to the industry. One family meeting the criteria will be selected from each of Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland. Awards sponsored by the Province of Prince Edward Island will be presented as part of the Host Banquet on October 10 at the Rodd Royalty Inn, The harness racing industry and general public are invited to submit nominations to the Evaluation Committees in each province for consideration for recognition. (read more)

BUSINESS ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR FARM BUSINESS
Source: NSFA You decided to farm most likely because you enjoy working with livestock, crops, and/or machinery. Few get into business because they enjoy the management necessities of a business! However running a business requires different skill sets beyond production. Through this course we will look at management skills to increase your success rate covering such topics as marketing, human resource management, record keeping, understanding financials, communication and negotiation skills, knowledge of business regulatory issues, inventory control, planning, organization, problem solving, strategic planning, succession planning, etc. The depth of each topic area will depend on the needs of the participants who sign up for the program. This course will start on Monday, September 21 and run each Monday for nine weeks from 10am to 3 pm in Bible Hill. 
smackenzie@nsfa-fane.ca

FOREIGN MATERIAL DETECTION PROGRAM 2015-2016
Source: NovaScotia.ca
This program aims to protect potato growers and packers from marketing a contaminated product to commercial sellers. The primary goal of this program is to ensure that a safe Nova Scotia product is being produced and provided to the consumer. Eligible applicants consist of farmers and packers that are packaging potatoes in Nova Scotia. Applicants must be a registered farm or business with a minimum income of $10,000. All applicants must be registered with the Nova Scotia Potato Marketing Board. (read more)

Sept 10, 2015

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CTCNS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR . . . 4-H PEI “KEEPING IT LOCAL” WITH 2015 RURAL YOUTH FAIR . . . N.S. COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTIONS . . . VALMET REVEALS DETAILS OF RESOLUTE TISSUE LINE . . . ONTARIO CORN FED BEEF BRAND EXPANDS REACH TO UNITED ARAB EMIRATES . . .OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...


CTCNS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Source: NSFA
The Christmas Tree Council of Nova Scotia (CTCNS) is currently seeking applicants for the position of Executive Director. This one year contract is a full time position that involves management of Council financial activity, support for working committees, oversight and maintenance of CTCNS website, and liaison with other agencies, commodity groups, and community organizations. (read more)

4-H PEI “KEEPING IT LOCAL” WITH 2015 RURAL YOUTH FAIR
Source: PEI 4-H
The PEI 4-H Rural Youth Fair, a much-loved Island tradition, will be returning to the Dundas Exhibition Grounds again this year on Saturday, September 19. Guests of all ages are welcome to join the fun as the achievements of PEI 4-H members from across the Island are celebrated in this busy one-day event. “4-H has almost a century of history on PEI,” explains Administrative Director Kelly Mullaly. “We believe this is because there is still a great interest and value in creating positive opportunities for young people to take chances and learn new skills, with the support and guidance of adult members from their own community. It’s the essence of our ‘Learn To Do By Doing’ motto and it includes offering projects to our members (ages 6-21) in subjects which range from agriculture, home economics and life skills, to science and technology.” (read more)

N.S. COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTIONS
Source: NSCMHF
Country music fans and performers from across the province will gather in Truro on Saturday, September 19 for the 2015 induction of three new members to the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame. The inductees this year are George Canyon, Hal Bruce, and George Longard. All three are Nova Scotia born longtime performers and musicians. Each year the hall of fame association inducts deserving Nova Scotians who have contributed to the advancement of country music as performers, musicians, or industry contributors. 
This year’s inductees will be honored at a dinner and ceremony Saturday evening at the Best Western Glengarry in Truro. Prior to the dinner and induction show, a number of Hall of Fame members will perform Saturday afternoon as a prelude to the evening’s events. Tickets for the dinner and induction ceremony are available only until Friday, September 11 from Arthur Brown at 902-543-2050. (read more)

VALMET REVEALS DETAILS OF RESOLUTE TISSUE LINE
Source: Pulp and Paper Canada
The tissue machine Resolute Forest Products has chosen for its Calhoun mill in Tennessee will be only the fifth of its type that Valmet has sold. Resolute selected Valmet’s Advantage NTT tissue production technology and Valmet automation for the Calhoun expansion. The line will manufacture at-home, premium private label tissue paper, including bath and towel. (read more)

ONTARIO CORN FED BEEF BRAND EXPANDS REACH TO UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Source: Real Agriculture
In a move that could add approximately $1 million in value to its farmer-owners, the Ontario Corn Fed Beef brand has announced a strategic partnership in to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Recently, a delegation of guests, including chefs and distribution partners from the UAE, toured Ontario to better understand what goes in to the Ontario Corn Fed Beef brand, says the organization. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

A NEW MAINE MANUFACTURING STRATEGY COULD TURN PLANTS INTO PRODUCTS
http://bangordailynews.com/2015/09/03/opinion/contributors/a-new-maine-manufacturing-strategy-could-turn-plants-into-products/

APPLE ORCHARD OWNER BREAKS NEW GROUND
http://www.peicanada.com/news/article_ef2473d2-5659-11e5-89fe-6fb9464348cf.html

I SCREAM, YOU SCREAM FOR SLOW-MELTING ICE CREAM
http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/09/09/438660718/i-scream-you-scream-for-slow-melting-ice-cream

LAMENESS LOCATOR TO AID EVALUATIONS
http://www.equineguelph.ca/Tools/lameness_lab.php?utm_source=Enews_September_2015&utm_campaign=Sept+2015+Equine+Guelph+Enews&utm_medium=email

September 9, 2015

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RESEARCHERS MAY HAVE FOUND LINK BETWEEN EXXON VALDEZ SPILL AND DECLINE IN FISH . . . COMMINGLING SITE TRACEABILITY PROGRAM . . . TIGHT CATTLE SUPPLY IMPACTS PRICES . . . PROVINCE, PARENTS SPEED UP SCHOOL CLOSURE APPEAL HEARING . . . ACORN IS HIRING! . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

RESEARCHERS MAY HAVE FOUND LINK BETWEEN EXXON VALDEZ SPILL AND DECLINE IN FISH
Source: The Globe & Mail
Federal scientists in the United States may have found a link between the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill and a decline of herring and pink salmon populations in Prince William Sound. In a study published Tuesday in the online journal Scientific Reports, researchers from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration found that embryonic salmon and herring exposed to even very low levels of crude oil can develop heart defects. (read more)


COMMINGLING SITE TRACEABILITY PROGRAM
Source: NovaScotia.ca
The Commingling Site Traceability program will assist high-risk, high-throughput livestock commingling sites in purchasing tag reading equipment and installing or modifying handling equipment to enhance traceability capabilities for animal handling identification. These enhancements will support traceability implementation, livestock identification, and the ability to meet regulatory requirements. (read more)

TIGHT CATTLE SUPPLY IMPACTS PRICES
Source: FCC
Another year of tight Canadian cattle supplies will keep retail beef prices high, but potential growth in the American herd could limit gains, according to Canfax Research Services. Extreme dryness in parts of Western Canada will make sourcing available and affordable winter feed an issue for cattle producers and delay herd expansion for another year, says the division of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association. (read more)


PROVINCE, PARENTS SPEED UP SCHOOL CLOSURE APPEAL HEARING
Source: CBC.ca
The provincial government and two parents’ groups have agreed to fast-track an appeal hearing over the closure of two schools in the Saint John area. Tuesday afternoon, lawyers for both sides announced the agreement just as they were about to go before the New Brunswick Court of Appeal for a stay on a lower-court ruling in the case. (read more)


ACORN IS HIRING!
Source: ACORN
This position will primarily support event registration and administration for the Conference. The successful candidate will take a lead role in supporting conference attendees and managing a comprehensive registration system for the Conference, which can have as many as 500 participants. The successful candidate will be responsible for contributing to an efficient, productive, and friendly work environment at ACORN. For more details, please see the full job description. Deadline to apply is September 21 at 4pm. (read more)


OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

THE FARMER WHO’S STARTING AN ORGANIC REVOLUTION IN CUBA
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/aug/31/organic-food-revolution-farming-cuba-restaurants

FARMERS CLASH WITH POLICE IN BRUSSELS DURING MILK AND MEAT PRICES PROTEST
http://www.thebullvine.com/news/

LARGE PIG GENE POOL DESPITE AGES OF DOMESTICATION
http://www.pigprogress.net/Breeding/Genetics-Al/2015/9/Large-pig-gene-pool-despite-ages-of-domestication-2679689W/

VACANT MEAT PROCESSING JOBS IMPACT ENTIRE CANADIAN ECONOMY
http://www.thepoultrysite.com/poultrynews/35742/vacant-meat-processing-jobs-impact-entire-canadian-economy/

 

Sept 8, 2015

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NATIONAL AGRICULTURE LEADERS DEBATE . . . POTATO HARVESTERS READY TO ROLL IN N.B. AND P.E.I. . . . FOUR LABOR-INTENSIVE CROPS FARMERS WISH THEY HAD ROBOTS TO HARVEST . . . MACHINERY TAKES PLACE OF MIGRANTS IN MAINE BLUEBERRY FIELDS . . . 4R PROGRAM PLANS ON-FARM DEMONSTRATIONS . . .OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

NATIONAL AGRICULTURE LEADERS DEBATE
Source: NSFA
The Canadian Federation of Agriculture will be hosting a National Agriculture Leaders debate in lead up to the Federal Election. The debate will highlight issues facing Canadian farmers and give an opportunity for each party to outline its platform positions as they pertain to Canada's farm and food future, Wednesday, September 30, noon to 2pm Atlantic time. (read more)
 

POTATO HARVESTERS READY TO ROLL IN N.B. AND P.E.I. 
Source: FCC New Brunswick’s potato harvest is nearly ready to get underway. Matt Hemphill, executive director of Potatoes New Brunswick, says some of the province’s 49,000 acres are now being top-killed and the main harvest will be underway in approximately four weeks. “We continue to focus on improving yields and we are in full swing with different trials and research to address it,” Hemphill says, noting acreage is on par with 2014. “I see yields could be up as much as five to 10 percent.” In Prince Edward Island, acreage is down about 1,000 acres to 89,500. (read more)

FOUR LABOR-INTENSIVE CROPS FARMERS WISH THEY HAD ROBOTS TO HARVEST
Source: NPR
If you're enjoying a late-summer fruit pie this Labor Day, consider what went into growing and harvesting that fruit. Chances are, it took a lot of human hands to ensure its skin would be perfect and smooth when you bought it. While machines have replaced human hands for a lot of farm jobs – the harvesting of tomatoes for processing, the cutting of lettuce and spinach, the shaking of almond trees to make the nuts fall to the ground – many fruit, vegetable, and nut farmers still rely heavily on people to plant, maintain, and harvest their crops. (read more)

MACHINERY TAKES PLACE OF MIGRANTS IN MAINE BLUEBERRY FIELDS
Source: The Chronicle Herald
Mary Marshall grew up living the life of a migrant farmer, spending hours under the hot summer sun picking wild blueberries with her parents and eight siblings, then ending the day bathing in a lake. It was grueling work that she looks back on fondly — a way of life that brought people of different cultures to the camps in Maine’s vast blueberry barrens. And she laments the way it is disappearing. “Machines are taking over. Even just going down to the camps, I see a lot of machinery. That’s pretty sad,” said Marshall, who harvested berries 40 years ago. “Our people could really pick that.” (read more)

4R PROGRAM PLANS ON-FARM DEMONSTRATIONS

Source: Island Farmer
The 4R Nutrient Stewardship program is planning a number of farm tours for September. On September 10, Brennan Gaudet, Paradigm Precision will demonstrate a UAV drone at Rollo Bay Holdings. The next day, Evan MacDonald will demonstrate his UAV drone at Spring Valley Farms. Another demonstration will happen September 14 at the farm of Jeff and Jason Smallman. 4R Nutrient Stewardship (4R) works to increase production/profitability for farmers while enhancing environmental protection and improving sustainability. (read more)
 


OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

BLUETONGUE FOUND IN CANADIAN BEEF CATTLE
http://www.thebeefsite.com/news/48567/bluetongue-found-in-canadian-beef-cattle/

QUALIFYING OUTFITTERS AND GUIDES MAY APPLY SEPT. 8 FOR NON-RESIDENT MOOSE DRAW
http://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/news/news_release.2015.09.0827.html

CARGILL SIGNS DEAL TO TURN POULTRY MANURE INTO ENERGY
http://www.thepoultrysite.com/poultrynews/35747/cargill-signs-deal-to-turn-poultry-manure-into-energy/

FORAGE: EVALUATING QUALITY AND BALANCING RATIONS
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/36357/forage-evaluating-quality-and-balancing-rations

Sept 4, 2015

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RUMFORD MILL TO INDEFINITELY SHUT DOWN PAPER MACHINE . . . EARLY BIRD ACORN CONFERENCE REGISTRATION – COMING SOON!! . . . MAKING SENSE OF LIVESTOCK-TO-FEED RATIOS . . . INDUSTRIAL HEMP ANOTHER POTENTIAL CROP FOR ISLAND PRODUCERS . . . HOW BIG EGG TRIED TO BRING DOWN LITTLE “MAYO” (AND FAILED) . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

RUMFORD MILL TO INDEFINITELY SHUT DOWN PAPER MACHINE
Source: ABC
Catalyst Paper in Rumford, the former NewPage mill, announced Wednesday that it has decided to keep its No. 12 coated-paper machine out of production indefinitely. The No. 12 machine was temporarily shut down back in May, resulting in 51 layoffs. The Canadian company that purchased the Rumford mill earlier this year said the decision is market-related. (read more)

EARLY BIRD ACORN CONFERENCE REGISTRATION – COMING SOON!!
Source: ACORN
Stay tuned folks! ACORN will be announcing our official Conference registration during Organic Week (September 19-27, 2015). We have over 45 awesome workshops planned and look forward to gathering everyone to celebrate ACORN's 15th anniversary!  (read more)

MAKING SENSE OF LIVESTOCK-TO-FEED RATIOS
Source: FCC
FCC Economic Researcher Martha Roberts explains how livestock-to-feed ratios can help you monitor the market and stay profitable. (read more)

INDUSTRIAL HEMP ANOTHER POTENTIAL CROP FOR ISLAND PRODUCERS
Source: Island Farmer
While it often suffers guilt by association because it is in the same family as marijuana, industrial hemp is a crop that is showing a great deal of potential on P.E.I. The Certified Organic Producers Co-op, together with Photogene Resources, recently held an organic help field day that attracted over 35 producers. While a permit from Health Canada is needed to grow hemp, Art McElroy maintains it is “no more dangerous than a bag of carrots.” (read more)

HOW BIG EGG TRIED TO BRING DOWN LITTLE “MAYO” (AND FAILED)
Source: NPR
In the annals of ill-conceived public relations campaigns, the egg industry’s war on Just Mayo deserves at least a mention. Just Mayo is a product that looks like mayonnaise, tastes like mayonnaise and yet contains no eggs. The company behind it, Hampton Creek, has been getting lots of attention. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

BOUCTOUCHE ANXIOUS TO REBUILD FARMERS’ MARKET AFTER SUSPICIOUS FIRE
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/bouctouche-anxious-to-rebuild-farmers-market-after-suspicious-fire-1.3214511

GROCERS HUNGRY FOR WINTER-SEASON PEAR
http://www.thegrower.org/readnews.php?id=6l2j9e3d8u2e

NSAIDS: ARE YOU FOLLOWING THE RULES?
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/36378/nsaids-are-you-following-the-rules

GREEN GIANT SOLD
http://www.ontariofarmer.com/sitepages/

September 3, 2015

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AID PACKAGE PROMPTS COMPANIES TO RESUME HARVESTING ON QUEBEC’S NORTH SHORE . . . ISLAND GROWER PARTICIPATING IN PLANT BREEDING PROJECT . . . FOOD BANKS IN SOUTHEAST BENEFIT FROM BOUNTIFUL CROPS . . . EARTH’S TREES NUMBER “THREE TRILLION” . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

AID PACKAGE PROMPTS COMPANIES TO RESUME HARVESTING ON QUEBEC’S NORTH SHORE
Source: Pulp and Paper Canada
On the last day of August, three forest products companies reached an agreement with the Quebec government which ends the so-called forestry crisis in Quebec’s North Shore region. For most of the summer, several companies operating in the area had removed their equipment and ceased logging, citing higher costs. The Quebec government has announced a package of aid measures to the three companies to compensate them for the economic consequences and loss of value attributed to a spruce budworm infestation. The assistance is said to include operational measures, technical support, and financial aid, for Resolute Forest Products, Boisaco, and Arbec (Port Cartier). (read more)

ISLAND GROWER PARTICIPATING IN PLANT BREEDING PROJECT
Source: Island Farmer
The development of varieties that are well suited to both organic production and the Canadian climate has been a major challenge as the organic sector continues its rapid growth.
To help fill the gap, the University of Manitoba established the Participatory Plant Breeding program in 2011. Originally confined to the Prairie Provinces, the program now includes every province except Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. (read more)

FOOD BANKS IN SOUTHEAST BENEFIT FROM BOUNTIFUL CROPS
Source: CBC.ca
Gardeners and farmers in southeast New Brunswick are taking surplus and blemished fruits and vegetables to local food banks to help get nutritious food on the tables of people in need. (read more)

EARTH’S TREES NUMBER “THREE TRILLION”
Source: BBC
There are just over three trillion trees on Earth, according to a new assessment. The figure is eight times as big as the previous best estimate, which counted perhaps 400 billion at most.  It has been produced by Thomas Crowther from Yale University, and colleagues, who combined a mass of ground survey data with satellite pictures. The team tells the journal Nature that the new total represents upwards of 420 trees for every person on the planet. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

BEAT THE BUGS – PROTECT YOUR HORSE FROM INFECTIOUS DISEASES
http://equineguelph.ca/eworkshops/biosecurity.php?utm_source=Enews_September_2015&utm_campaign=Sept+2015+Equine+Guelph+Enews&utm_medium=email

SHEPHERDS CLAIM WESTERN SHEEP OPERATORS COLLUDED AGAINST FOREIGN WORKERS
http://www.thetelegram.com/Canada---World/News/2015-09-02/article-4266047/Shepherds-claim-Western-sheep-operators-colluded-against-foreign-workers/1

CANADIAN DOLLAR AND BUSINESS OUTLOOK
http://www.producer.com/market_update/canadian-dollar-and-business-outlook-610/

CLASS-ACTION SUIT ALLEGES CHIPOTLE'S GMO-FREE CAMPAIGN IS DECEPTIVE
http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/09/02/436673039/class-action-suit-alleges-chipotles-gmo-free-campaign-is-deceptive

Sept 2, 2015

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FOOD ISLAND DAY SET FOR WEDNESDAY . . . 50% LOCAL FOOD CLUB – NOVA SCOTIA . . . REPLACING PESTICIDES WITH GENETICS . . . CILANTRO SUSPECTED IN FOOD POISONINGS . . . BEE-KILLING NEONICOTINOID PESTICIDES EVEN WORSE THAN PREVIOUSLY THOUGHT . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

FOOD ISLAND DAY SET FOR WEDNESDAY
Source: Island Farmer
Food Island Day is slated for Clinton Hills Wednesday. It is a one-day symposium that will bring together over 150 P.E.I. food processors, growers, exporters, food tourism operators, industry associations, product development centers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to learn about emerging food trends, best practices, and network. (read more)

50% LOCAL FOOD CLUB – NOVA SCOTIA
Source: ACORN This September, Step Up To The Plate! September marks the return of something wonderful – the 50% Local Food Club! A province-wide, month-long initiative designed to increase purchasing and consumption of local food, the 50% Local Food Club aims to support and celebrate food producers and farmers in our province. Last September, eaters of all ages stepped up to the plate in support of local agriculture – more than 3,000 Nova Scotians committed to sourcing 50 percent of their diet from local producers! (read more)

REPLACING PESTICIDES WITH GENETICS
Source: New York Times
Every spring, a host of unwelcome visitors descends on the Hansen farm in upstate New York. Diamondback moths blown in from the South threaten rows of cabbages to be sold for slaw and sauerkraut. The moths can’t be fought off with a single insecticide. Workers must spray a series of chemicals throughout the growing season to keep the moths’ numbers in check. (read more)

CILANTRO SUSPECTED IN FOOD POISONINGS
Source: Ontario Farmer
Cilantro from Mexico is the prime suspect in a growing list of food poisonings across the United States and Canada. However, so far there is no conclusive evidence that it’s the culprit in 495 cases in the United States and 92 across Canada, most of those in Ontario. Cyclospora, a microscopic single-celled parasite that is passed in people’s feces, is the problem. If it comes in contact with food or water, it can infect the people who consume it. This causes an intestinal illness called cyclosporiasis. (read more)

BEE-KILLING NEONICOTINOID PESTICIDES EVEN WORSE THAN PREVIOUSLY THOUGHT
Source: Treehugger.com
We’ve been writing for a while about the damage that neonicotinoid pesticides are doing to bee populations around the world, but according to the latest science, things might be even worse than we thought. A new assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (Efsa) of three chemicals that are already banned in Europe, clothianidin, imidacloprid, and thiamethoxam, has found that they pose a “high risk” to bees when sprayed on leaves. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

CURRENT EL NINO CLIMATE EVENT “AMONG THE STRONGEST”
http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-34120583

SO WE DRINK LESS MILK – LET’S UNDERSTAND WHY
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/rob-commentary/so-we-drink-less-milk-lets-understand-why/article26158646/

IS CREEP FEEDING AN ANSWER TO YOUR PASTURE WOES?
http://www.canadiancattlemen.ca/2015/09/01/is-creep-feeding-an-answer-to-your-pasture-woes/?module=carousel&pgtype=homepage&i=1

NEW WASTE-TO-ENERGY FACILITY TO BENEFIT EAST TENNESSEE
http://www.bioenergy-news.com/display_news/9565/new_wastetoenergy_facility_to_benefit_east_tennessee/

Sept 1, 2015

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INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF SOILS . . . EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CHRISTMAS TREE COUNCIL OF N.S. . . . TELL BURT’S BEES: STOP CONSORTING WITH THE BEE KILLERS! . . . BEEF RESEARCHER MENTORSHIP PROGRAM ANNOUNCES SECOND YEAR OF PARTNERSHIPS . . . SEABIRDS “BLIGHTED BY PLASTIC WASTE” . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF SOILS
Source: Alberta Agriculture and Forestry
2015 is the International Year of Soils, and over the next few months, we’ll be featuring a number of soil-related stories. Trevor Wallace, nutrient management specialist with Alberta Agriculture, dropped by the studio to talk about our soil information series. (read more)

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CHRISTMAS TREE COUNCIL OF N.S.
The Christmas Tree Council of Nova Scotia is currently seeking applicants for the position of Executive Director. (read more)

TELL BURT’S BEES: STOP CONSORTING WITH THE BEE KILLERS!
Source: Organic Consumers Association
It’s been less than two months since Burt Shavitz, nature-lover, beekeeper, and co-founder of Burt’s Bees died, at the age of 80. And even though Burt sold the company years ago to Roxanne Quimby, who in turn sold it to the Clorox Co. for a cool $925 million, Burt is probably rolling over in his grave to see his beloved company supporting an expensive, glossy, public relations campaign, paid for by Bayer CropScience, and aimed at obfuscating the fact that Bayer is one of the world’s most prolific killer of bees. Burt’s Bees is one of the companies signed on to the Pollinator Partnership, an organization that on the surface appears very concerned about the plight of honeybees. (read more)

BEEF RESEARCHER MENTORSHIP PROGRAM ANNOUNCES SECOND YEAR OF PARTNERSHIPS
Source: RealAgriculture.com
The Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) announced its second group of Beef Researcher Mentorship Program participants this week. The program was designed in an effort to align research interests with those beneficial to the beef industry, as well as promote and facilitate collaborations between researchers and producers. (read more)

SEABIRDS “BLIGHTED BY PLASTIC WASTE”
Source: BBC
About 90 percent of seabirds have eaten plastic and are likely to retain some in their gut, a new analysis estimates. The study concludes that matters will only get worse until something is done to stem the flow of waste to oceans. Research co-author Erik Van Sebille says oceans are now filled with plastic and it is “virtually certain” that any dead seabird found in 2050 “will have a bit of plastic in its stomach.” (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

SEMEX’S CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS MOVING
http://www.thebullvine.com/news/semexs-corporate-headquarters-moving/

WARM SUNSHINE GREETS PUBLIC AT DUNDAS PLOWING MATCH & AGRICULTURAL FAIR
http://www.peicanada.com/eastern_graphic/article_ed342984-5008-11e5-b8ad-37b1b156ad7f.html?mode=jqm

THE FUTURISTIC FARMING AT THE 1939 WORLD’S FAIR
http://modernfarmer.com/2014/07/futuristic-farming-1939-worlds-fair/

2015 ATLANTIC SHEEP SALE
http://nssheep.ca/category/sheep-news/

August 31, 2015

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CFA HOPING TO IMPROVE AGRIINVEST THROUGH INFO FROM SURVEY . . . ATLANTIC DAIRY STEER PROJECT NEEDS LEAN BEEF . . . U.S. PLACES DUTY ON IMPORTS OF UNCOATED PAPER . . . RICE FARMING IN ONTARIO LAKE SPARKS FIGHT OVER TREATY AND PROPERTY RIGHTS . . . TRUCKERS LEERY OF MOBILE SCALES EFFECTIVENESS . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

CFA HOPING TO IMPROVE AGRIINVEST THROUGH INFO FROM SURVEY
Source: NSFA
Are you a producer who wants a better AgriInvest program? One with higher matching contributions that allows you to better manage risk and invest in your farm? If yes, then the Canadian Federation of Agriculture needs your help. Fill out the three to five minute survey at the following link. (read more)

ATLANTIC DAIRY STEER PROJECT NEEDS LEAN BEEF
Source: FCC
Atlantic Beef Products Inc. has added a new market for Atlantic beef producers. The federally inspected beef slaughter and processing facility in Prince Edward Island wants animals weighing approximately 1,400 pounds at between 14 and 18 months of age for its lean beef program. ABP’s primary business is to process and sell high quality beef cattle. Leftover fat and lean trimmings go to create ground beef, however, since more fat trimmings are produced than are used, ABP requires additional lean trimmings to make more ground beef. (read more)

U.S. PLACES DUTY ON IMPORTS OF UNCOATED PAPER
Source: Pulp and Paper Canada
Imports of some uncoated freesheet and groundwood paper grades from China, Indonesia, Brazil, Australia, and Portugal to the U.S. will now face a duty of up to 193 percent. The U.S. Department of Commerce imposed preliminary anti-dumping duties on Aug. 20, following its investigation and an investigation by the U.S. International Trade Commission, which concluded that the U.S. industry had been materially injured by sales of these paper products for less than their fair value. (read more)

RICE FARMING IN ONTARIO LAKE SPARKS FIGHT OVER TREATY AND PROPERTY RIGHTS
Source: The Globe and Mail
For years, residents near Pigeon Lake in Southern Ontario were unhappy with a local wild rice harvester who was seeding the lake, filling their shorelines with the marshy plant. But when the locals decided to take action and cut down the plants, the simmering tension exploded into a fight over treaty and property rights. (read more)

TRUCKERS LEERY OF MOBILE SCALES EFFECTIVENESS
Source: The Eastern Graphic
Some eastern P.E.I. truckers are skeptical over the province’s decision to implement a mobile weigh scale rather than rely on the fixed scales on the approach to the Wood Islands ferry terminal. The province contends a mobile unit will be more effective in checking commercial vehicles. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS FOR JUMPING SURFACES MOVE A STEP CLOSER
http://horsetalk.co.nz/2015/08/27/international-standards-jumping-surfaces-closer/#axzz3kLre7Brq

IN A REMOTE PART OF WASHINGTON, A SCRAMBLE TO SAVE CATTLE FROM FLAMES
http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/08/28/435498442/cattle-ranchers-scramble-to-save-herds-in-washington-state-s-okanogan-complex-fi

FRUIT TREE OWNERS WANTED FOR SHARING PROJECT
http://www.thetelegram.com/News/Local/2015-08-30/article-4262170/Fruit-tree-owners-wanted-for-sharing-project/1

LARGER U.S. MUSHROOM CROP NETS HIGHER RETURN
http://www.ontariofarmer.com/sitepages/

August 28, 2015

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NEW SCIENCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO FOCUS ON FORESTRY . . . PROTECTING RARE PLANTS IN YARMOUTH COUNTY . . . FARM FOCUS EDITOR LEAVES TC MEDIA . . . PLANNING IS KEY FOR IRVING PULP MILL MODERNIZATION . . . INVITATION TO MOW: 12TH ANNUAL MARITIME HANDMOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

NEW SCIENCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO FOCUS ON FORESTRY
Source: N.S. Dept of Natural Resources
The Department of Natural Resources has created a Forest Biodiversity Science Advisory Committee to enhance the management of Nova Scotia’s Crown-owned woodlands. The committee includes experts on forest science, biodiversity, ecological planning, and spatial modelling. During quarterly meetings, the members share knowledge and guidance as Nova Scotia moves to landscape scale management of Crown-owned lands. Only 35 percent of all land in Nova Scotia is owned by the province. The rest is owned by private citizens, meaning most forestlands in the province are privately owned and managed.  (read more)

PROTECTING RARE PLANTS IN YARMOUTH COUNTY
Source: Farm Focus
A Nova Scotian conservation group has acquired land in Yarmouth County critical to the survival of four nationally endangered plants. The Nova Scotia Nature Trust (NSNT) purchased 122 hectares around Wilson Lake that includes 2.5 km of intact shoreline, critical for the Pink Coreopsis, Plymouth Gentian, Water Pennywort, and Longs Bulrush. These four endangered plants are all found nowhere else in Canada, and only on a small number of lakes. (read more)

FARM FOCUS EDITOR LEAVES TC MEDIA
Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
Heather Jones, editor of Farm Focus, a TC Transcontinental Media publication out of Yarmouth, N.S., left her post August 14, after nearly three decades under at least three different owners of the newspaper launched by Lester Pink in the early 1970s.
Under TC Media, Jones’ responsibilities had grown to include editing four other publications including Atlantic Construction and Transportation Journal, Maritime Provinces Water and Waste Water Journal, Ready-Mix News, and The Trading Post. “I found the work interesting and educational,” Jones said in a brief phone interview. Has she retired? “No,”she replied. “Just taking a break.”

PLANNING IS KEY FOR IRVING PULP MILL MODERNIZATION
Source: Pulp and Paper Canada
The Irving Pulp & Paper mill is in the midst of what could be the largest modernization project in Canada since 1993, and yet the daily operation of the Saint John, N.B., mill continues. “We have not had a single break in production,” said mill manager Cory Gallant. “Despite the incredible amount of construction activity on site, we have remained fully functional with over 340 employees producing pulp products every day for markets at home and abroad.” Gallant says excellent communication between mill employees and project leaders has made the difference. (read more)

INVITATION TO MOW: 12TH ANNUAL MARITIME HANDMOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Source: Rural Delivery
Good morning handmowers. It’s time for the 12th Annual Maritime Handmowing Championships: Saturday, August 29, rain or shine (but it always shines!). We hope we will see you and friends that day at the Ross Farm Museum in New Ross with scythes (blades detached and covered) and ready to take part in one or more contests. Novice and “Well Honed Blades” (70 and older) events take place at 11 am. Open competition at 1 pm. Also of course, Hay Forking contest for all ages, the fun “Chair Mowing” contest, plus demonstrations of many practical hay and grain harvesting skills like stacking hay and flailing grain. Prizes for all in the Open championship competition. No charge for those arriving with scythes and ready to join the fun. Please plan to take part, and please spread the word. Thanks to all, Dirk PS: If you are planning to take part it will help with planning if you let us know by email or phone, 902-354-5411, dvlmagazines@gmail.com.

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

CANADA’S BEEF PRODUCERS OUTLINE ELECTION PRIORITIES
http://www.cattle.ca/news-events/news/view/canadas-beef-producers-outline-election-priorities/

SURVEY: LIMBS, NOT FEET, MAIN CAUSE OF LAMENESS
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/36336/survey-limbs-not-feet-main-cause-of-lameness

THE NEW PROFESSIONALS: FARMERS LEARN NEW ROLES
http://www.producer.com/2015/08/the-new-professionals-farmers-learn-new-roles/

TINY TRACKERS COULD HELP SOLVE GLOBAL BEE DEATH MYSTERY
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-34048495

August 27, 2015

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NEW ELECTION RULES ATTRACT CRITICISM . . . FALL SOIL TESTING GOOD FOR BUSINESS . . . PAPERWEEK CANADA . . . CFIA CUTS HURTING FOOD SAFETY . . . INVITATION TO MOW: 12TH ANNUAL MARITIME HANDMOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS . . .OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

NEW ELECTION RULES ATTRACT CRITICISM
Source: The Chronicle Herald
New voter rules brought in under the federal government’s Fair Elections Act will see some significant changes at the polls this year that could unfairly affect certain groups. The act, originally introduced in February 2014 by Democratic Reform Minister Pierre Poilievre, became law in June. The bill received ample criticism from groups across Canada, eventually resulting in several amendments. But many still argue that its measures do little to combat voter fraud and that it actually suppresses votes. (read more)

FALL SOIL TESTING GOOD FOR BUSINESS
Source: FCC
Experts say fall is an optimum time to conduct soil testing. Once harvest is finished, there’s more downtime than in spring and producers typically have a wider window of time to test – anytime post harvest until the ground freezes. It also gives producers time to either apply fall fertilizers or determine the product they need to buy during the winter. The time is also ideal since fertilizer prices tend to be lower than in spring. (read more)

PAPERWEEK CANADA
February 1-5, 2016, Fairmont Queen Elizabeth, Montreal. Under the theme Global Knowledge Connections, PaperWeek will bring together key industry players from Canada and around the World to discuss the most recent advancements, challenges, and opportunities in mill operations, and present the latest trends in the pulp and paper and forest products markets. (read more)

CFIA CUTS HURTING FOOD SAFETY
Source: The Manitoba Cooperator
With an election looming, now is seen as the time to put food safety and funding cuts on candidates’ agendas. A group concerned with food safety says the current government’s refusal to acknowledge a Canada-wide shortage of federal inspectors is putting public safety at risk. Speaking to reporters in Winnipeg, the president of the union representing federal food inspectors said that the Conservative government’s own staff has raised the alarm over cuts to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, but to no avail. (read more)
 

INVITATION TO MOW: 12TH ANNUAL MARITIME HANDMOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Source: Rural Delivery
Good morning handmowers. It’s time for the 12th Annual Maritime Handmowing Championships: Saturday, August 29, rain or shine (but it always shines!). We hope we will see you and friends that day at the Ross Farm Museum in New Ross with scythes (blades detached and covered) and ready to take part in one or more contests. Novice and “Well Honed Blades” (70 and older) events take place at 11 am. Open competition at 1 pm. Also of course, Hay Forking contest for all ages, the fun “Chair Mowing” contest, plus demonstrations of many practical hay and grain harvesting skills like stacking hay and flailing grain. Prizes for all in the Open championship competition. No charge for those arriving with scythes and ready to join the fun. Please plan to take part, and please spread the word. Thanks to all, Dirk PS: If you are planning to take part it will help with planning if you let us know by email or phone, 902-354-5411, dvlmagazines@gmail.com.

August 26, 2015

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NORTHERN PULP STACK TEST RESULTS POSTED … YIELDS AND HARVEST LOSSES; THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT … PROGRAM HELPS FARMERS HONE COMMUNICATION SKILLS … QUESTIONS … CANADIAN DAIRY FARMERS ARE SOUNDING THE ALARM OVER OPENING THE DOORS TO TRADE BETWEEN COUNTRIES THAT BORDER THE PACIFIC OCEAN … INVITATION TO MOW: 12TH ANNUAL MARITIME HANDMOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

NORTHERN PULP STACK TEST RESULTS POSTED
Source: N.S. Dept of Environment
The Department of Environment posted stack test results from Northern Pulp in Pictou County Aug. 21.The results, the first since the new precipitator began its commissioning in June, show a marked improvement over the mill’s previous test results in April. Particulate emissions from the recovery boiler are well below the new regulatory limit, indicating that the new precipitator is working as expected. The emissions limit in the 2015 industrial approval is almost 80 per cent lower than the mill's previous approval. (read more)

YIELDS AND HARVEST LOSSES; THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT
Source: FCC
Farmers can use two smart phone apps to calculate potential yields and harvest losses. The yield estimator and harvest loss apps were among seven apps developed for the Saskatchewan Soil Conservation Association in partnership with University of Saskatchewan computer graduate students. Spraying specialist Tom Wolf with AgriMetrix Research and Training served as an advisor. He says ease of use was a priority. (read more)

PROGRAM HELPS FARMERS HONE COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Source: The Chronicle Herald
Every farmer has a story to tell. And it’s Nancy Beth Guptill’s job to help get that story to market. “Three percent of the Canadian population are farmers and 97 percent are not farmers,” said Guptill, who stopped in Bible Hill on Wednesday to deliver the Speak Up program to 15 registered farmers from around the region. “Through the statistics, we’ve found out that 97 percent are two to three generations removed from the farming business so they really don’t have an understanding of how our food is produced.” (read more)

QUESTIONS
Source: River John Community Group
We are trying to put our children first – their health, safety and sense of identity in a community which wants to flourish.  
We needed and still need a willingness from many stakeholders to make a community driven HUB school pilot succeed.  (read more)

CANADIAN DAIRY FARMERS ARE SOUNDING THE ALARM OVER OPENING THE DOORS TO TRADE BETWEEN COUNTRIES THAT BORDER THE PACIFIC OCEAN
Source: The Bullvine
Canadian dairy farmers are sounding the alarm over opening the doors to trade between countries that border the Pacific ocean. They worry opening Canada to dairy imports will affect milk quality in Canada and put their livelihood at risk.  (read more)

INVITATION TO MOW: 12TH ANNUAL MARITIME HANDMOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Source: Rural Delivery
Good morning handmowers. It’s time for the 12th Annual Maritime Handmowing Championships: Saturday, August 29, rain or shine (but it always shines!). We hope we will see you and friends that day at the Ross Farm Museum in New Ross with scythes (blades detached and covered) and ready to take part in one or more contests. Novice and “Well Honed Blades” (70 and older) events take place at 11 am. Open competition at 1 pm. Also of course, Hay Forking contest for all ages, the fun “Chair Mowing” contest, plus demonstrations of many practical hay and grain harvesting skills like stacking hay and flailing grain. Prizes for all in the Open championship competition. No charge for those arriving with scythes and ready to join the fun. Please plan to take part, and please spread the word. Thanks to all, Dirk PS: If you are planning to take part it will help with planning if you let us know by email or phone, 902-354-5411, dvlmagazines@gmail.com.

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

TO UNDERSTAND RENMINBI, FOLLOW THE BACON
http://www.nytimes.com/video/business/international/100000003854704/bacon-a-sign-of-the-times-in-china.html?action=click&gtype=vhs&version=vhs-heading&module=vhs&region=title-area

CATTLE THEFT: AN OLD CRIME ON THE RISE
http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/08/25/434605993/an-old-crime-is-on-the-rise-cattle-theft

PIPELINES ARE NOT THE ONLY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE IN THE 2015 ELECTION
http://rabble.ca/columnists/2015/08/pipelines-are-not-only-environmental-issue-2015-election

PCV2 VACCINE AVAILABLE WITH NEW ADJUVANT
http://www.pigprogress.net/Health-Diseases/Health/2015/8/PCV2-vaccine-available-with-new-adjuvant-2676546W/

August 25, 2015

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AC FEED CENTRE FIRE . . . BLUEBERRY GROWERS IN THE MARITIMES STRUGGLE TO BREAK EVEN . . . MARIJUANA IN BORAGE CROP TRACED TO SUSPECT SEED . . . EXHIBITION PARK DEADLINE EXTENSION SOUGHT . . . SCOURGE NO MORE: CHEFS INVITE CORN FUNGUS TO THE PLATE . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

AC FEED CENTRE FIRE
Source: Truro Daily News
Firefighters from multiple Colchester County departments were called to a feed centre fire at Dalhousie Agricultural Campus on Monday evening. The fire, which was called in at about 6:30 pm, ignited at the Ruminant Animal Centre on College Road in Bible Hill. No injuries to staff or animals were reported. (read more)

BLUEBERRY GROWERS IN THE MARITIMES STRUGGLE TO BREAK EVEN
Source: CBC.ca
It’s blueberry season in the Maritimes, but many growers are having a difficult time breaking even. “It’s very difficult. I am somewhat demoralized by the price for sure,” said Russell Weir, owner of McKay’s Blueberries in Pennfield, N.B. Weir said the price of blueberries is exactly the same as when he bought his blueberry farm in 1988. “That summer we picked and sold our berries and received 50 cents a pound. It’s 27 years later, we receive 50 cents a pound,” said Weir. “The cost of production has naturally gone way way up. And it’s very very difficult to even break even.” (read more)

MARIJUANA IN BORAGE CROP TRACED TO SUSPECT SEED
Source: Island Farmer
When Technology Crops International sourced borage seed to supply its contracted growers, they ended up getting a lot more than they bargained for. The seed, sourced from Saskatchewan, was found to contain cannabis sativa, more commonly known as marijuana. In July, over 1,200 marijuana plants were discovered in a field of borage in Traveller’s Rest, mixed in with the legitimate crop. Police first thought the seeds had come from an outdoor grow-up that must have been in the immediate area sometime in the past, and it was thought to be an isolated incident. (read more)

EXHIBITION PARK DEADLINE EXTENSION SOUGHT
Source: The Chronicle Herald
There appears to be interest from within some level of government in acquiring Exhibition Park. Monday was the deadline for another provincial, federal, or municipal government entity to express interest in the Prospect Road property. The province announced July 30 that the complex will close Nov. 16. The aging facility, which needs an estimated $9 million in repairs and upgrades, was declared surplus earlier this month and put up for sale. (read more)

SCOURGE NO MORE: CHEFS INVITE CORN FUNGUS TO THE PLATE
Source: NPR
One evening last July, Nat Bradford walked along rows of White Bolita Mexican corn at his Sumter, S.C., farm, and nearly wept. All 1,400 of the corn plants had been overtaken almost overnight by corn smut, recalls Bradford, who’s also a landscape architect. The smut, from a fungus called Ustilago maydis, literally transforms each corn kernel into a bulbous, bulging, bluish-grey gall. It is naturally present in the soil and can be lofted easily into the air and onto plants. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

ACORN’S GROW A FARMER LEARNING SERIES PRESENTS: THE BUSINESS OF CUT FLOWER FARMING
http://www.acornorganic.org/events/calendar/cutflowerworkshop

CARBON CREDITS UNDERCUT CLIMATE CHANGE ACTIONS SAYS REPORT
http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-34042115

CANADA STARTS LIFTING POULTRY BANS
http://www.ontariofarmer.com/sitepages/

CATTLE OUTLOOK: ON FEED NUMBERS GROW AGAIN, BEEF PRODUCTION LOW
http://www.thebeefsite.com/news/48498/cattle-outlook-on-feed-numbers-grow-again-beef-production-low/

August 24, 2015

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PRODUCERS PLEASED WITH STRAWBERRY SEASON . . . NO FEAR HOMEMADE MAYONNAISE: BETTER THAN WHAT’S IN THE JAR . . . GENETICALLY MODIFIED TREES ARE BEING “STRANGLED” BY RED TAPE . . . ORGANIC MEADOW ROLLING INTO LARGER CO-OP . . . INVITATION TO MOW: 12TH ANNUAL MARITIME HANDMOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

PRODUCERS PLEASED WITH STRAWBERRY SEASON
Source: FCC
Overall, strawberry growers in the Maritime Provinces report a good season. Bob Bates, owner of Bates Landing on New Brunswick’s Belleisle Bay, says flavor was exceptional this year and prices increased slightly at the U-pick. The New Brunswick Department of Agriculture reports U-pick prices ranging from $1.50 to $1.60 a pound and up to $2 a pound for organic strawberries. Bates says the retail market was relatively strong as well. He credits that to Nova Scotia’s season starting late following a late spring. (read more)

NO FEAR HOMEMADE MAYONNAISE: BETTER THAN WHAT’S IN THE JAR
Source: NPR
Simon Hopkinson created a highbrow restaurant, Bibendum, in West London and he has been filling seats there for nearly 30 years. His books, like “Roast Chicken And Other Stories,” are famous. So this is a man with class. And he’s noticed that “mayonnaise ... is something that is such a pleasure to make, but people are often frightened of it and it’s one of the most delicious things." (read more)

GENETICALLY MODIFIED TREES ARE BEING “STRANGLED” BY RED TAPE
Source: BBC
U.S. researchers say it has become “virtually impossible” to plant genetically modified trees in any part of the world. They argue that the GM trees are desperately needed to deal with an upsurge in forest diseases and pests. What they term “misguided” concerns about genetic engineering have slowed progress to a crawl. But environmental campaigners say the technology is risky and the long-term safety unproven. (read more)

ORGANIC MEADOW ROLLING INTO LARGER CO-OP
Source: Ontario Farmer
Meadowfresh, a subsidiary of Agrifood International Cooperative Ltd. In Western Canada and Avrio Ventures General Partnership Ltd. are taking over Organic Meadow co-operative in Ontario. The approximately 100 farmers who own Organic Meadow will get only seven cents on the dollar in the financial restructuring, the same as other unsecured creditors owed a total of close to $930,000. Farmers who loaned $760,544 to Organic Meadow will have to wait to see how much they will eventually get.The three involved in this deal say arrangements for their partnership remain to be worked out. (read more)

INVITATION TO MOW: 12TH ANNUAL MARITIME HANDMOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Source: Rural Delivery
Good morning handmowers. It’s time for the 12th Annual Maritime Handmowing Championships: Saturday, August 29, rain or shine (but it always shines!). We hope we will see you and friends that day at the Ross Farm Museum in New Ross with scythes (blades detached and covered) and ready to take part in one or more contests. Novice and “Well Honed Blades” (70 and older) events take place at 11 am. Open competition at 1 pm. Also of course, Hay Forking contest for all ages, the fun “Chair Mowing” contest, plus demonstrations of many practical hay and grain harvesting skills like stacking hay and flailing grain. Prizes for all in the Open championship competition. No charge for those arriving with scythes and ready to join the fun. Please plan to take part, and please spread the word. Thanks to all, Dirk PS: If you are planning to take part it will help with planning if you let us know by email or phone, 902-354-5411, dvlmagazines@gmail.com.

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

UAVS ARE NOT JUST FOR CROP FARMERS 
http://www.thepoultrysite.com/poultrynews/35621/uavs-are-not-just-for-crop-farmers/

SOURIS-OWNED PACER STATE TREASURER ON TOP OF THE WORLD
http://www.peicanada.com/eastern_graphic/article_bec48a64-45e3-11e5-b08a-6784fed2be7e.html

A SIMPLE GUIDE TO FINISHING PIGS
http://www.thepigsite.com/articles/5130/a-simple-guide-to-finishing-pigs/

CATTLE HERD CONTINUES TO SHRINK
http://www.producer.com/daily/

August 21, 2015

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PEI AGRICULTURE SECTOR COUNCIL DEALING WITH MAJOR BUDGET CUTS . . . FOOD WASTE AND BEEF FAT WILL BE MAKING AIRPLANES SOAR . . . WIDESPREAD NEONIC PRESENCE FOUND IN U.S. WATERWAYS . . . GETTING TO THE MEAT OF THE CUCUMBER . . . INVITATION TO MOW: 12TH ANNUAL MARITIME HANDMOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

PEI AGRICULTURE SECTOR COUNCIL DEALING WITH MAJOR BUDGET CUTS
Source: Island Farmer
The PEI Agriculture Sector Council is trying to figure out what programs it will be able to offer in the future as it deals with the impact of two budget cuts. Executive Director Laurie Loane explained the first cutback was expected. The federal government is reducing dollars under the Labour Market Agreement, and she noted government officials have warned another cutback will be coming next year. (read more)

FOOD WASTE AND BEEF FAT WILL BE MAKING AIRPLANES SOAR
Source: NPR What do beef tallow and manure have in common with t-shirts and pine needles? Turns out you can make high-quality, low-carbon transportation fuel with all of them. A growing number of biofuel producers are teaming up with farms, meatpackers, and waste management companies to tap gassy waste to meet new demand for renewable jet fuel and diesel for vehicles. (read more)

WIDESPREAD NEONIC PRESENCE FOUND IN U.S. WATERWAYS
Source: The Western Producer
Neonicotinoids have been found in more than half of streams sampled across the United States, according to a new study by government researchers. The insecticide treatments are under scrutiny by the White House because of fears about their impact on honeybees. The study, published in Environmental Chemistry and conducted by U.S. Geological Survey researchers, found that five types of neonicotinoids were present in varying degrees in 149 samples taken from 48 streams. (read more)

GETTING TO THE MEAT OF THE CUCUMBER
Source: The Telegram
Cape Broyle Sea Products Ltd. wants to use cash the provincial government has given to it to further develop its sea cucumber operation on the Southern Shore.  “We just split them and take the guts off and clean them inside and then pack them frozen,” says plant manager Surendra Botlagunta. (read more)

INVITATION TO MOW: 12TH ANNUAL MARITIME HANDMOWING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Source: Rural Delivery
Good morning handmowers. It’s time for the 12th Annual Maritime Handmowing Championships: Saturday, August 29, rain or shine (but it always shines!). We hope we will see you and friends that day at the Ross Farm Museum in New Ross with scythes (blades detached and covered) and ready to take part in one or more contests. Novice and “Well Honed Blades” (70 and older) events take place at 11 am. Open competition at 1 pm. Also of course, Hay Forking contest for all ages, the fun “Chair Mowing” contest, plus demonstrations of many practical hay and grain harvesting skills like stacking hay and flailing grain. Prizes for all in the Open championship competition. No charge for those arriving with scythes and ready to join the fun. Please plan to take part, and please spread the word. Thanks to all, Dirk PS: If you are planning to take part it will help with planning if you let us know by email or phone, 902-354-5411, dvlmagazines@gmail.com.

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

WHAT ARE THE PROSPECTS FOR CANADA’S POULTRY INDUSTRY?
http://www.thepoultrysite.com/poultrynews/35611/what-are-the-prospects-for-canadas-poultry-industry/

PLUMS, PEACHES, CHERRIES – ALL PLUCKED FROM THE SAME TREE. BUT HOW?
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/technology/technology-video/video-edible-art-professor-creates-tree-of-40-fruit/article26013258/

PRINCE RUPERT PULP MILL TO BE DISMANTLED, FINALLY
http://www.pulpandpapercanada.com/news/prince-rupert-pulp-mill-to-be-dismantled-finally/1003767393/438qvsM3oyW6x08yM2vx/?ref=enews_PP&utm_source=PP&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PP-EN08192015

HOW TO STORE ROOT CROPS FOR WINTER
http://modernfarmer.com/2015/08/how-to-store-root-crops-for-winter/