June 20, 2014

CASCADES LAUNCHES RESPAK: THE ALTERNATIVE TO POLYCOATED PACKAGING  . . . CRITTERS COME CALLING . . . A NEW AGRICULTURAL WEATHER SITE FOR ATLANTIC CANADA! . . .  EARTHWORMS–ARCHITECTS OF FERTILE SOILS . . .  WINDMILL HOLSTEINS HOLDING AN OPEN HOUSE . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

CASCADES LAUNCHES RESPAK: THE ALTERNATIVE TO POLYCOATED PACKAGING 
Source: CNW Group
Cascades is proud to announce the launch of Respak, the ecological answer to the environmental challenge of polycoated packaging products. Designed primarily for the food and food services industries, Respak is recyclable and compostable, without compromising on the performance and durability characteristic of traditional polycoated packaging. (read more) www.cascades.com

CRITTERS COME CALLING
Source: The Chronicle Herald
Fresh stitches cut through Domenico Di Francescantonio’s face. One eye weeps a yellowed tear. But it is the man’s smile — straining a freshly sewn cheek — that captures you. He beams, aglow. Clutching a cane in one hand and the arm of an assistant in the other, he inhales deeply, sensing first the straw, mixing with the sweat greasing the pigs. Both aromas are nearly drowned out by the earthiness of the barnyard filling Northwood Centre’s auditorium. He closes his eyes for a moment and travels backward more than 50 years. He’s no longer an old man, he says, but a boy in the countryside of central Italy. (read more)
http://halifaxchronicle.can.newsmemory.com/?token=DWHUJRyYuVJVh%2fbSzSdpyg%3d%3d

A NEW AGRICULTURAL WEATHER SITE FOR ATLANTIC CANADA!
Source: NSFA
A new weather-based website is under development for Atlantic Canada producers. It puts local, accurate and fast weather data for the agricultural sector at your fingertips! Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has supported the development of an agricultural based weather website delivered by Mesonet Solutions specifically for producers and producers groups. (read more) http://atl.agrometeo.org 

EARTHWORMS–ARCHITECTS OF FERTILE SOILS
Source: OACC
Today, much is known about the general taxonomy and biology of earthworms, whereas relatively little is known about their impact on soils, their interactions with other soil organisms, and the influence of farming practices on their populations.

WINDMILL HOLSTEINS HOLDING AN OPEN HOUSE
Source: NSFA
Windmill Holsteins, the home of Nova Scotia’s first power generating bio-gas plant, is holding an open house to take place on June 28 from 10 am–3 pm. If you would like to view this new facility, visit the open house at 1396 Hwy 224 Shubenacadie East. (read more) nsfa-fane.ca/

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

ASPARAGUS, REVISITED
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/17/science/asparagus-revisited.html?rref=science&module=ArrowsNav&contentCollection=Health&action=click&region=FixedRight&pgtype=article

GOATS IN THE CITY? MAKING A CASE FOR DETROIT’S MUNCHING MOWERS 
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2014/06/18/321659645/goats-in-the-city-detroit-s-munching-mowers-make-a-case

“DISEASED MEAT COULD GO UNDETECTED” DUE TO RULE CHANGE
http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-27866293

OTTAWA TO ANNOUNCE CHANGES TO FOREIGN-WORKER PROGRAM FRIDAY 
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-to-announce-changes-to-foreign-worker-program-friday/article19244789/

June 19, 2014

A NEW SLUG IN TOWN . . . PINK SLIME IS MAKING A COMEBACK . . . WHERE RAISING BEEF ON APPLES AND HERBS IS TRULY THE FRUITS OF THEIR LABORS . . . THE MILKMAN’S COMEBACK MEANS DAIRY AT THE DOOR AND MORE . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

A NEW SLUG IN TOWN

Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
There are large shiny black slugs showing up in yards, gardens, and on the seashore in Cherry Hill on Nova Scotia’s South Shore. Is this an isolated infestation, or are they appearing elsewhere? And what are they?

Photos by Teena Coolen

PINK SLIME IS MAKING A COMEBACK 
Source: NPR
A much-maligned beef product that was once frequently added to hamburger is making a comeback. Two years ago, beef processors cut back sharply on producing what they call “lean, finely textured beef” after the nasty nickname for it, “pink slime,” caught on in the media. Now, higher beef prices are leading to increased demand for the product. (read more)

WHERE RAISING BEEF ON APPLES AND HERBS IS TRULY THE FRUITS OF THEIR LABORS 
Source: The Globe and Mail
Typically, “finishing” – the final stage of a beef cow’s life – begins after the beasts have spent between 12 to 18 months on pasture, where they graze on grasses; after that, the standard feedlot-finished cow is moved into pens and fed a diet of 90 percent grain.(read more)

THE MILKMAN’S COMEBACK MEANS DAIRY AT THE DOOR AND MORE
Source: NPR
You don’t even have to get out of your PJs to go to the farmers’ market now. All over the country, trucks are now delivering fresh milk, organic vegetables, and humanely raised chickens to your door — though in New York, the deliveries come by bike. Fifty years ago, about 30 percent of milk still came from the milkman. By 2005, the last year for which USDA has numbers, only 0.4 percent was home delivered. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

AGRICULTURE SECRETARY IN EUROPE TO MAKE U.S. CASE ON TRANS-ATLANTIC FARM TRADE ISSUES
http://www.startribune.com/business/263453831.html

BOOTS 'N BLOOMS 2014
http://www.dal.ca/faculty/agriculture/news-events/news/2014/06/17/boots__n_blooms_2014.html

CFIA TO AUDIT ITSELF
http://ontariofarmer.com/sitepages/

RANDOM LENGTHS LUMBER AND PANEL MARKET REPORT
http://www.randomlengths.com/Woodwire/RL-Lbr-Pnl/

June 18, 2014

MARITIME ANGUS ASSOCIATION FIELD DAY . . . CHICKEN CAMPAIGN CREATES CONNECTIONS . . . FARMWORKS CREATES JOBS IN NOVA SCOTIA . . . N.B. GOVERNMENT TO ENFORCE STRICTER ORGANIC FOOD LABELLING STANDARDS . . . SAPUTO DROPS CHILLIWACK CATTLE SALES MILK OVER COW ABUSE VIDEO . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

MARITIME ANGUS ASSOCIATION FIELD DAY
Source: Atlantic Beef

The participants in The Maritime Angus Association Junior Show held at Port Elgin Fair grounds on Saturday June 14, 2014. The Juniors are decked out in the black vests they wore in the show ring.

Left to right: Corinne Gibson, Canadian Angus Association president (Six Mile Red Angus, Fir Mountain, Sask.); Kurt, Kinley, and Karly Duncan, 25-year member (Duncan Livestock, Cornwall, P.E.I.); Trevor Welch, Maritime Angus Association director to the CAA Board and Past President of the Maritime Angus Association (Garvie Farms, Glassville, N.B.); Betty Lou Scott, 25-year member and 25-year Secretary-Treasurer Maritime Angus Association (WindCrest Farm, Mt Thom, N.S.); and Bill Scott accepting on behalf of Sandy Scott, 25-year member, also of WindCrest Farm. Dr. Bill Best of P.E.I. also qualified for a 25-year award but was unable to attend the Field Day in Port Elgin on June 13-14, 2014. (Photos by Emily Pipes)

CHICKEN CAMPAIGN CREATES CONNECTIONS
Source: FCC
Chicken farmers are hoping a new grassroots branding campaign will capitalize on producers already high public standing, while appealing to consumers’ demand for quality, safety, and local food. The campaign, “Raised by a Canadian Farmer,” was launched on Monday by the Chicken Farmers of Canada. The campaign showcases farmers’ commitment to provide nutritious chicken raised to the highest standards of care, quality, and freshness, says CFC chair David Janzen. (read more)

FARMWORKS CREATES JOBS IN NOVA SCOTIA
Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
As a result of strategic investments by FarmWorks Investment Co-operative Limited, more than 25 jobs have been created. FarmWorks announced today that 18 Nova Scotia food-related businesses have added 20 full-time jobs and six part-time jobs as a result of FarmWorks loans they received between May 2012 and December 2013. This is in addition to 21 full-time and 14 part-time positions held by the business owners themselves. The 2013 Workforce Multiplier Effect Study of Local Farms and Food Processors in Northwestern Ontario described a multiplier of 1.4, which indicates that 20 jobs in the local farm and food processing sector in Northwestern Ontario support eight additional jobs indirectly with suppliers and retailers. 
For startup and young businesses involved, roughly 25 percent of their total capital came from FarmWorks, representing a significant contribution to their businesses. For established businesses, loans accounted for 1.5 percent to 100 percent of project capital.
FarmWorks was established in 2011 to promote and provide strategic and responsible community investment in food production and distribution in order to increase access to sustainable local food for all Nova Scotians. Money invested in the FarmWorks CEDIF is used to provide subordinated debt funding to farms and food-related businesses to help increase the supply of local food, and the level of agricultural and related economic activity. Multipliers ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 bring about direct, indirect and induced economic improvement with relatively small amounts of local investment.
FarmWorks does not require collateral, payments are deferred for three months, and no fees are charged for loan applications or early repayment. Applicants’ values and goals must align with FarmWorks’, and extensive due diligence is required before loans are made. Protection of shareholder investments in the FarmWorks Community Economic Development Investment Fund is paramount in order to ensure the ongoing success of the CEDIF program.
The amount invested in the surveyed businesses was part of $449,500 raised in the first two CEDIF offers. The recently closed third offer raised $271,500 that is now being loaned to food related businesses across the Province. The total raised within 27 months was $721,000.
The survey was conducted by Dr. Irena Knezevic, PhD, Laurier Centre for Sustainable Food Systems and Chloe Kennedy, MSc, Farm to School Coordinator, Clean Nova Scotia, in March and April 2014. 
AtlanticFarmer.com

N.B. GOVERNMENT TO ENFORCE STRICTER ORGANIC FOOD LABELLING STANDARDS
Source: Global News
New Brunswick is taking steps to make sure all products labelled as organic live up to their name. The provincial government has created new regulations it will enforce to ensure such products meet national standards. (read more)

SAPUTO DROPS CHILLIWACK CATTLE SALES MILK OVER COW ABUSE VIDEO
Source: CBC BC
Saputo, producer of Dairyland dairy products, says it is no longer accepting milk from Chilliwack Cattle Sales, a B.C. farm where eight employees were caught on video beating cattle. The move comes after Mercy for Animals Canada released undercover video last week showing dairy cows being whipped and beaten with chains and canes, as well as punched and kicked, at Canada’s largest dairy farm. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

HORSE OWNERS, PRACTICE SOUND BIOSECURITY MEASURES
http://www.bccourier.com/Archives/Farm_detail.php?contentId=17158

SPONSOR THE 2014 ACORN CONFERENCE AND PARTICIPATE IN OUR TRADE SHOW!
www.acornorganic.org/

REPLACEMENT NAMED FOR RETIRING FARM CREDIT CHIEF
http://www.grainews.ca/category/news/

SENATE COMMITTEE TO RELEASE AGRICULTURE REPORT
http://peicanada.com/island_farmer/publication/senate_committee_release_agriculture_report

June 17, 2014

PEIFA CLAIMS LESS THAN IDEAL SITUATION FOR LOCAL LOBSTER FISHERMEN . . . BIOSECURITY REMAINS TOP IN PEDV BATTLE . . . NDP FOOD STRATEGY A WELCOME CONTRIBUTION TO DEMOCRATIC POLICY PROCESS . . . CASCADES TURNS TO SOLAR POWER AT KINGSEY FALLS MILLS . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

PEIFA CLAIMS LESS THAN IDEAL SITUATION FOR LOCAL LOBSTER FISHERMEN
Source: West Prince Graphic
According to Ian MacPherson, executive director for Prince Edward Island Fishermen’s Association Ltd, Island wide catches are down by 20 percent as of the end of May. As with any season, Mr MacPherson explained, some areas are up from last year, but a number of areas are lower, hence the overall volume decline. (read more)

BIOSECURITY REMAINS TOP IN PEDV BATTLE
Source: FCC
As news comes this week of another case of Porcine epidemic diarrhrea virus detected at an Ontario farrow-to-finish operation, hog experts in the United States are reminding their producers to remain vigilant with biosecurity. Speaking to media last week at the World Pork Expo in Des Moines, Iowa, Dr. Tom Burkgren of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, says warmer summer weather is expected to result in a decline in the number of incidents of PEDv, which thrives in cooler climates. Still, he warned, producers need to remain mindful. (read more)

NDP FOOD STRATEGY A WELCOME CONTRIBUTION TO DEMOCRATIC POLICY PROCESS
Source: NFU
The National Farmers Union welcomes the release of Everybody Eats, the pan-Canadian food strategy launched by the New Democratic Party in early June. “We need a national discussion that brings together those who produce and process food and those who eat it to talk about issues such as what type of food and agriculture policies we need to ensure the survival of Canada’s family farms, how to ensure all Canadians have adequate, nutritious and culturally appropriate food and the protection of our natural environments in farming regions,” said Ann Slater, National Farmers Union (NFU) Vice-President, Policy. (read more)

CASCADES TURNS TO SOLAR POWER AT KINGSEY FALLS MILLS
Source: Pulp and Paper Canada
Cascades will install a powerful, 1,490 m2 concentrated solar power (CSP) system on a 4,000 m2 lot to reduce consumption of natural gas used to produce the hot water required by the company’s complex of tissue and board mills in Kingsey Falls, Que. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

ALBERTA WEEKLY LIVESTOCK MARKET SUMMARY
http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/newslett.nsf/all/cotl22352

CONNECTICUT GOVERNOR VETOS CHOCOLATE MILK BAN
http://farmprogress.com/story-connecticut-governor-vetos-chocolate-milk-ban-25-113861

PASO FINO WORLD CUP PRACTICE
http://www.theledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Dato=20140614&Kategori=PHOTOS51&Lopenr=406160803&Ref=PH&pl=1

WHAT KID DOESN'T DIG A PIZZA FARM?
http://www.leaderpost.com/business/What+doesn+pizza+farm/9927150/story.html

STUDENTS CELEBRATE SUCCESS OF CLASSROOM GARDENS
http://www.releases.gov.nl.ca/releases/2014/edu/0616n01.aspx

June 16, 2014

FORESTS ONTARIO SUPPORTS GOVERNMENT'S COMMITMENT TO RESTORATION . . . STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION ON NEW STEWARDSHIP REGULATIONS . . . 4,000 LBS OF BEEF RECALLED OVER FEARS OF MAD COW DISEASE . . . STUDY: DEFORESTATION LEAVES FISH UNDERSIZED AND UNDERFED . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

FORESTS ONTARIO SUPPORTS GOVERNMENT'S COMMITMENT TO RESTORATION 
Source: Forests Ontario
Forests Ontario supports the Liberal government's vision to ensure the long-term health of the province’s forest resources. Our organization is particularly pleased to acknowledge the election commitment of Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne to continue to work with municipalities and other partners such as Trees Ontario (the restoration arm of Forests Ontario) to maintain and enhance the province’s tree planting efforts across rural and urban areas. (read more)

STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION ON NEW STEWARDSHIP REGULATIONS 
Source: NSFA
We have been advertising a stakeholder consultation on new stewardship regulations to take place on June 20 at St. Mary’s University. There has been a low response to this and it is in danger of being cancelled, so if you plan to attend, please let us know. For more information on these regulations, please see “Revising Our Path Forward: A public discussion paper about solid waste regulation in Nova Scotia,”  (read more)

4,000 LBS OF BEEF RECALLED OVER FEARS OF MAD COW DISEASE 
Source: LA Times
More than 4,000 pounds of beef, some of which made its way to Whole Foods stores, were recalled last week over fears of possible contamination with substances that could lead to Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, otherwise known as mad cow disease, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. (read more)

STUDY: DEFORESTATION LEAVES FISH UNDERSIZED AND UNDERFED
Source: BBC
Deforestation is reducing the amount of leaf litter falling into rivers and lakes, resulting in less food being available to fish, a study suggests. Researchers found the amount of food available affected the size of young fish and influenced the number that went on to reach adulthood. The team said the results illustrated a link between watershed protection and healthy freshwater fish populations. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

WHEAT HASN’T TURNED INTO POISON: RESEARCHERS
http://www.producer.com/daily/wheat-hasnt-turned-into-poison-researchers/

FRACKING INFORMATION SESSION 2: JUNE 17, 1-3PM
http://www.nsen.ca

CAN YOU CALL YOURSELF AN ENVIRONMENTALIST AND STILL EAT MEAT?
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2014/06/11/320776028/can-you-call-yourself-an-environmentalist-and-still-eat-meat

ZELLCHEMING-EXPO JUNE24-26, FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY
http://www.zellcheming.de

June 13, 2014

PORK INDUSTRY WELCOMES AGGRESSIVE TIMETABLE FOR CANADA-KOREA FTA . . . ELECTRICITY SYSTEM REVIEW . . . AGRICULTURE INNOVATION ACCELERATOR AWARD . . . PROVINCE LOOKING FOR NORTHERN PULP MARKETS. . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

PORK INDUSTRY WELCOMES AGGRESSIVE TIMETABLE FOR CANADA-KOREA FTA
Source: Canadian Pork Council
The Canadian Pork industry welcomed today’s news that the Federal government tabled the text of the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement in the House of Commons. Canadian hog producers, pork processors and meat traders and the many other companies in Canada that provide inputs and services to the industry have a very strong interest in Canada aggressively pursuing further progress toward reducing agri-food trade barriers and achieving additional market access through bilateral trade agreements similar to this trade agreement with South Korea. (read more)

ELECTRICITY SYSTEM REVIEW
Source: NS Dept of Energy
The department encourages people to visit the Electricity System Review webpage to view technical studies, a summary document and videos. This new information will help inform public discussion in the fall. Updates will continue throughout the summer. The department welcomes feedback on the studies and invites interested parties to submit their thoughts and evidence.
electricityreview@gov.ns.ca 

AGRICULTURE INNOVATION ACCELERATOR AWARD
Source:NSFA
The Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce has announced the second year of its Agriculture Innovation Accelerator Award. The award is open to farmers, processors, suppliers, and organizations with innovative ideas and projects that will advance their business or the industry as a whole. The award winner will receive a prize that is estimated at $40,000 in an equal combination of cash and in-kind services, counseling and other contributions from sponsors. Deadline to apply is June 30, 2014. (read more) 

PROVINCE LOOKING FOR NORTHERN PULP MARKETS
Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
Nova Scotia Minister of Environment Zach Churchill says his department is working with sawmills to find other markets during Northern Pulp’s enforced shutdown. Churchill says the indefinite shutdown will have a ripple effect throughout the forest industry. NP buys wood chips, an important revenue source for sawmills, and is seen as a critical part of the supply chain.

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

WHALE DISENTANGLEMENT IN THE BAY OF FUNDY
http://www.ifaw.org

THE NFU IN NB IS LOOKING FOR A NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.
http://www.nfunb.org

US STUDY LINKS RED MEAT CONSUMPTION TO BREAST CANCER
http://www.bbc.com/news/health-27790484

LATEST NEWS FROM THE ORGANIC VALUE CHAIN ROUNDTABLE
http://www.organicagcentre.ca/MarketInfo/ovcrt_update_may2014.asp

June 12, 2014

NORTHERN PULP SHUT DOWN TO ADDRESS EFFLUENT LEAK . . . COASTAL MAPPING COULD SHORE UP N.S. . . . WE’RE GOING TO COURT TO CHALLENGE DFO’S FISHY PRACTICES . . . PEI FEDERATION OF AGRICULTURE SCHOLARSHIP . . . MOUNT A GRAD LAUNCHING VODKA BUSINESS USING N.B. POTATOES . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

NORTHERN PULP SHUT DOWN TO ADDRESS EFFLUENT LEAK
Source: Pulp & Paper Canada
Operations have been temporarily halted at Northern Pulp Nova Scotia after an effluent leak was discovered near the mill site in Abercrombie, N.S. Media reports say the leak was detected around 7 am on Tuesday, June 10. The mill was shut down while the company evaluates the situation. (read more)

COASTAL MAPPING COULD SHORE UP N.S.
Source: The Chronicle Herald
Recent opinion pieces by Iaian Archibald (“Let’s map our way to excellence,” March 21), and Eric Melanson (“N.S. ahead of mapping curve,” Opinions online, April 10) state that genuinely embracing our mapping potential will bring jobs and economic opportunities to Nova Scotia. I entirely agree. Yet what if we harnessed our exemplary mapping capacity to help Nova Scotia’s homeowners, businesses, municipalities, communities, and investors identify and reduce their vulnerability to climate change? (read more)

WE’RE GOING TO COURT TO CHALLENGE DFO’S FISHY PRACTICES
Source: Ecojustice
Here’s a scenario: Rather than regulate fish farm transfers itself, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans is standing by and letting fish farm companies decide to put farmed fish carrying disease agents into the Pacific Ocean. Seems a little reckless doesn’t it? And yet, this is what’s happening on B.C.’s coast. In 2013, DFO granted 123 aquaculture licences to fish farm companies that allow them to transfer farmed fish carrying disease agents into waters shared with wild fish.  (read more)

PEI FEDERATION OF AGRICULTURE SCHOLARSHIP
Source: PEIFA
In partnership with Farm Credit Canada, the PEI Federation of Agriculture is pleased to offer a scholarship of $2,000 for the upcoming academic year. The scholarship is available to: Federation members, their spouses, or their children who are enrolled in a leadership program that helps expand their knowledge of the industry and promote leadership; Federation members, their spouses, or their children who are enrolled in a post‐secondary or graduate program. (read more)

MOUNT A GRAD LAUNCHING VODKA BUSINESS USING N.B. POTATOES 
Source: The Sackville Tribune Post 
Mount Allison University commerce graduate Devon Strang will soon be running his own business – a distillery. This is a business that he was able to make the focus of an independent study class, under the guidance of commerce professor Nauman Farooqi. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

AMICUS BRIEF: IDAHO’S NEW “AG-GAG” LAW IS ABOUT CONDUCT, NOT SPEECH 
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/06/idaho-agriculture-protection-law-is-about-conduct-not-speech/#.U5kMBS_1-k0

WILD BIRD FLU COULD MUTATE INTO DEADLY HUMAN PANDEMIC
http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn25713-wild-bird-flu-could-mutate-into-deadly-human-pandemic.html#.U5kMVS_1-k0

A FISH WITHOUT BONES: THE RISE OF MEAT GLUE
http://www.meatpaper.com/articles/2011/mp_fifteen_meatglue.html

IRISH POTATO FAMINE PATHOGEN ORIGINATED IN MEXICO
http://www.news.cornell.edu/stories/2014/06/irish-potato-famine-pathogen-originated-mexico

June 11, 2014

ANTI-FRACKING CAMPAIGN DAMPENS BRITISH BUZZ OVER SHALE… FARM MARKET ECONOMICS MEASURED … CAAP FUNDING DOESN’T MEAN MUCH TO NOVA SCOTIA… ACORN INVITES LOCAL ORGANIC FOOD ENTHUSIASTS TO JOIN ORGANIC CONSUMER GROUP… OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

ANTI-FRACKING CAMPAIGN DAMPENS BRITISH BUZZ OVER SHALE
Source: The Globe and Mail
The walk from the village of Balcombe to the drill site takes less than half an hour on a footpath that winds through the dense West Sussex forest, past a farmyard, and then down the overgrown verge of a rural road. It reaches the spot where a group of anti-fracking protesters encamped and police converged in a high-profile standoff last summer. (read more)

FARM MARKET ECONOMICS MEASURED
Source: FCC
It’s a busy Saturday morning at the Historic Farmers' Market in downtown Halifax. Farmer Ted Hutten and his staff weigh and bag fruit and vegetables from Hutten's 50-acre family farm in the Annapolis Valley. Hutten has been a market mainstay for nearly 30 years (he grossed a grand total of $55 his first week), and in that time, he's watched as the number of markets in the province has grown. A newly released study notes that over the last 10 years, their number has shot up from 15 to 45, which gives Nova Scotia the largest number of farmers’ markets per capita in the country. (read more)

CAAP FUNDING DOESN’T MEAN MUCH TO NOVA SCOTIA
Source: NSFA
Recently the Federal Minister of Agriculture, Gerry Ritz announced a renewed Canadian Agriculture Adaptation Program (CAAP) for Canadian agriculture. Under the CAAP program, $50.3 million dollars is being made available over the next five (5) years to “help the agriculture sector adapt and remain competitive, respond to emerging issues, and look at new approaches to deal with new and ongoing challenges.”
Dennis Boudreau, President of the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture says, “This program is too broad and won’t do much to help the industry here in Nova Scotia. It is fifty million over five years for the entire country.” (read more)

ACORN INVITES LOCAL ORGANIC FOOD ENTHUSIASTS TO JOIN ORGANIC CONSUMER GROUP
Source: ACORN
ACORN has several consumer education projects planned in the months ahead, and in order to ensure we’re really effective, we’re hoping to form a small group of engaged and informed consumers to: Bounce ideas off of and brainstorm new ideas for our consumer education activities; Build connections amongst local organic enthusiasts, so that together we can grow the organic movement in Atlantic Canada! (read more) 

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

COASTAL ZONE CANADA CONFERENCE 2014
http://www.theoceanwewant.eventbrite.com

A PRICE TAG ON CARBON AS A CLIMATE RESCUE PLAN
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/30/science/a-price-tag-on-carbon-as-a-climate-rescue-plan.html?ref=science&_r=0

PHOTOS: YOUNG ORGANIC FARMERS
http://www.latimes.com/visuals/photography/la-fi-adv-young-organic-farmers-pg-photogallery.html

PROPER DIET MINIMIZES RISK OF NEGATIVE ENERGY BALANCE IN COWS
http://www.grainews.ca/2014/05/30/proper-diet-minimizes-risk-of-negative-energy-balance/

June 10, 2014

WELCOMING PEGGY WEATHERBEE . . . FLOCK MANAGEMENT SERVICES AVAILABLE . . .  “TOMATO PILL” HOPE FOR STOPPING HEART DISEASE . . . GLOSSY BUCKTHORN FEELS THE WRATH OF VOLUNTEERS . . . GLOSSY BUCKTHORN . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

WELCOMING PEGGY WEATHERBEE
Source: NSFA
The N.S. Department of Agriculture announced this week that Peggy Weatherbee has accepted the position of Manager of Programs for the Department of Agriculture. 
Peggy brings a great depth of experience in program delivery and client services for agriculture across Canada.  (read more)

FLOCK MANAGEMENT SERVICES AVAILABLE
Source: SPANS
Amanda Dunfield is available in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick to provide a variety of flock management and health services for sheep, llamas and alpacas. Her services include shearing, hoof trimming, deworming external parasite treatment, vaccinating, and more. (read more)

“TOMATO PILL” HOPE FOR STOPPING HEART DISEASE
Source: BBC 
Taking a tomato pill a day could help keep heart disease at bay, say UK scientists who have carried out a small but robust study. The trial, which tested the tomato pill versus a dummy drug in 72 adults, found it improved the functioning of blood vessels. But experts say more studies are needed to prove it really works. The pill contains lycopene, a natural antioxidant that also gives tomatoes their color. (read more)

GLOSSY BUCKTHORN FEELS THE WRATH OF VOLUNTEERS
Source: The Chronicle Herald
Armed with loppers, saws and bug spray, a small army of volunteers slogged through slimy mud holes, clambered over fallen trees and swatted interminable swarms of mosquitoes on Sunday in their search for an invader near Pugwash. Suddenly, there it was, all around them  – the glossy buckthorn  a nondescript shrub with speckled bark and shiny leaves, almost invisible among the alders, wild raisin, and serviceberry trees. The glossy buckthorn may not be much to look at, but the introduced shrub has aggressively grown its way through much of the Pugwash Estuary Nature Reserve, pushing native species out of the way at this site, across Nova Scotia and elsewhere in North America. (read more)

GLOSSY BUCKTHORN
Source: P.E.I. Invasive Species Council
Glossy Buckthorn was introduced from Europe as an ornamental shrub. It is a very aggressive and invasive shrub with multiple stems and can grow to be 20 feet tall. Glossy Buckthorn tolerates a wide range of habitats from wetlands to woodland edges, old fields, ditches and grassy areas. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

WEBINAR: BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN UK FOR CANADIAN AGRI-FOOD INDUSTRY
http://www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca/eng/document.jsp?did=151744

STOP GENETICALLY MODIFED WHEAT IN CANADA
http://www.organicconsumers.org/canada/

EMPLOYMENT: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CLEAN ANNAPOLIS RIVER, ANNAPOLIS ROYAL, N.S.
http://www.annapolisriver.ca

SHEEP AND LAMBS WERE LOWER; GOATS STEADY
http://www.ontariofarmer.com/sitepages/?aid=9090&cn=QUICKLINKS&an=Sheep%20and%20lambs%20were%20lower;%20goats%20steady

June 9, 2014

GOVERNMENTS RENEW COMMITMENT TO WOODWORKS! PROGRAM . . . CANADA SELECTED FOR SUSTAINABLE BEEF PILOT PROJECT . . . DAVID FROST AND NFU IN N.B. SCHOLARSHIPS . . . CAN FARMED FISH FEED THE WORLD WITHOUT DESTROYING THE ENVIRONMENT? . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

GOVERNMENTS RENEW COMMITMENT TO WOODWORKS! PROGRAM
Source: Cumberlandnewsnow.com
The federal government and four Atlantic governments have renewed their commitment to the Maritime Lumber Bureau’s WoodWORKS! program. The program aims to increase the use of locally produced solid wood materials in the non-residential building sector in Atlantic Canada. (read more)

CANADA SELECTED FOR SUSTAINABLE BEEF PILOT PROJECT 
Source: FCC
McDonald’s choice of Canada for its sustainable beef pilot project is a positive step for ranchers according to the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association. “Any time you head down this path and you get recognized for the excellent things you’re doing, we view it as feeding into what we refer to as the overall Canada beef advantage,” says Dennis Laycraft, executive vice president of the CCA, which represents Canada’s 68,500 beef farms and feedlots. (read more)

DAVID FROST AND NFU IN N.B. SCHOLARSHIPS
Source: NFUNB
The National Farmers Union in New Brunswick is offering three scholarships to N.B high school graduates who are entering a program at a recognized Canadian institution. Priority will be given to students enrolling in an agricultural program. The David Frost Memorial Scholarships are for $1,000 toward a degree program and for $500 toward a two year diploma program. Applicants must be sons or daughters of a registered professional agriculture producer in N.B. Applicants for the $1,000 NFU in N.B. Scholarship must from a family which holds an NFU membership through Service N.B. Academic standing, school and community involvement, demonstrated interest in agriculture, and financial need will be taken into consideration. (read more)

CAN FARMED FISH FEED THE WORLD WITHOUT DESTROYING THE ENVIRONMENT?
Source: NPR
We Americans love our fried shrimp, our sushi and our fish sticks. And a lot of other people around the world count on fish as a critical part of their diet, too. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, fish now accounts for almost 17 percent of the world's intake of protein – in some coastal and island countries it’s as high as 70 percent. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

HERBICIDE CARRYOVER INJURY SHOWS UP IN CORN IN IOWA
http://farmprogress.com/story-herbicide-carryover-injury-shows-corn-iowa-9-113499

EU TO TEST IMPORTS OF LIVE PIGS FROM CANADA, U.S. FOR PEDV
http://www.agcanada.com/daily/eu-to-test-imports-of-live-pigs-from-canada-u-s-for-pedv

CDC: TEXAS PATIENT DIED OF MAD COW-RELATED DISEASE
http://www.agweb.com/article/cdc_texas_patient_died_of_mad_cow-related_disease_NAA_Associated_Press/

BFREPA CALLS FOR EARLY REVIEW OF BEAK TRIMMING 
http://www.worldpoultry.net/Home/General/2014/6/BFREPA-calls-for-early-review-of-beak-trimming-1535426W/trimming

June 6, 2014

ATLANTIC AGROLOGY WORKSHOP: SUSTAINABLE WATER FOOTPRINT . . . HYDROPONIC TOMATOES MAY ONE DAY BE TASTIER THAN ONES GROWN OUTSIDE . . . WORLD CONGRESS ON CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE . . . CAN ORGANIC FARMING COUNTERACT CARBON EMISSIONS? . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

ATLANTIC AGROLOGY WORKSHOP: SUSTAINABLE WATER FOOTPRINT
Source: NSFA An Atlantic Agrologist Workshop will take place July 20 – 22, 2014 in P.E.I. at the Stanley Bridge Country Resort. (read more)

HYDROPONIC TOMATOES MAY ONE DAY BE TASTIER THAN ONES GROWN OUTSIDE
Source: NPR
Peak tomato season – July through September here on the East Coast – is almost upon us, and the anticipation is palpable. Before we know it, those super sweet, juicy fruits, grown outdoors under the hot sun, will be back in abundance. We tend to fetishize summer tomatoes, especially heirloom varieties like Brandywine and Cherokee Purple, and regard them as the pinnacle of tomato flavor. (read more)

WORLD CONGRESS ON CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE 
Source: WCCA 
The growing season of 2013 was one for the record books. It was too wet, too dry, too cold, too hot. Although variability in the weather cannot be changed, we can learn to better manage under these conditions. Conservation of water and soil is vital to your success in all kinds of weather. On June 22 - 25, 2014 the 6th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture being held in Winnipeg, Manitoba will present new ideas on all these topics and more. (read more)

CAN ORGANIC FARMING COUNTERACT CARBON EMISSIONS?
Source: The Wall St. Journal
Organic practices could counteract the world’s yearly carbon dioxide output while producing the same amount of food as conventional farming, a new study suggests. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

2014 P.E.I. POTATO AMBASSADOR
http://peifa.ca/2014-pei-potato-ambassador/

U.S. OFFICIALS CUT ESTIMATE OF RECOVERABLE MONTEREY SHALE OIL BY 96 PERCENT – LA TIMES
http://altwire.utne.com/rt_story/r_resilience/us-officials-cut-estimate-of-recoverable/416c344b6c6867546e6f586a6134786c6e76622b77413d3dTimes

20 HORSE ART PIECES AT SPRUCE MEADOWS FOR GOOD CAUSES
http://www.calgaryherald.com/These+horse+pieces+Spruce+Meadows+will+help+many+good+causes/9911290/story.html

HAVE CATTLE PRICES AND LOST GRAZING ACRES ALTERED CULLING PRICES?
http://www.cattlenetwork.com/cattle-news/Have-cattle-prices-and-lost-grazing-acres-altered-culling-prices-261837981.htmlaltered culling prices?

June 5, 2014

NORTHERN GATEWAY FAILS THE TEST . . . KRUGER PRODUCTS ACQUIRES METRO PAPER’S TISSUE CONVERTING ASSETS . . . ATTENTION  N.B. FRUIT AND VEGETABLE PRODUCERS! . . . SMALL FARMS WORK TO IRON OUT FOOD RULES . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

NORTHERN GATEWAY FAILS THE TEST
Source: WWF
Canada’s most eminent scientists are telling our government to reject the Joint Review Panel’s report. The Northern Gateway pipeline fails the test of science. And it fails the test of what is right for Canada. Sign their letter and let the Prime Minister know this project fails your test of what is right. (read more)

KRUGER PRODUCTS ACQUIRES METRO PAPER’S TISSUE CONVERTING ASSETS
Source: Pulp and Paper Canada
Kruger Products L.P. has completed the acquisition of all of Metro Paper Industries Inc.'s (MPI) Canadian tissue converting assets, located in Trenton, Ont., and Scarborough, Ont., for a total cash consideration of $23.5 million.  (read more)

ATTENTION  N.B. FRUIT AND VEGETABLE PRODUCERS!
Source: NBDAAF
In recognition of the growing demand for year-round local food, the N.B. Department of Agriculture is continuing to offer its support for season extension infrastructure such as tunnels and greenhouses, as well as on-farm storage facilities. (read more)

SMALL FARMS WORK TO IRON OUT FOOD RULES
Source: FCC
Making life easier for smaller scale Manitoba farmers who market from their own homes to local foodies and restaurants is the task of a new provincial government working group. Growers in the province may sell products like uninspected poultry, homemade jam, and ungraded eggs from their farm gate or at farmers’ markets, but not online. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

SUSTAINABILITY, HEALTH, DEVELOPMENT HOOKED INTO NDP FOOD PLAN
http://www.grainews.ca/daily/sustainability-health-development-hooked-into-ndp-food-plan

SOLAR ROADWAYS: JUST PORKPIE IN THE SKY
http://rabble.ca/columnists/2014/06/solar-roadways-just-porkpie-sky

CALIFORNIA PROCESSING TOMATO TONNAGE CLIMBS 17 PERCENT 
http://westernfarmpress.com/vegetables/california-processing-tomato-tonnage-climbs-17-percent

VERY FEW LOBSTER LICENCE HOLDERS HAVE VOTED ON BALLOT YET; VOTING CONTINUES THIS WEEK
http://www.digbycourier.ca/News/2014-06-03/article-3748193/Very-few-lobster-licence-holders-have-voted-on-ballot-yet%3B-voting-continues-this-week/1

June 4, 2014

ORGANICPRICETRACKER.CA NEEDS YOUR PRICE LISTS! . . .  CLEAN ANNAPOLIS RIVER PROJECT ANNUAL MEETING . . . NEW ONLINE FORUM FOR FRACKING REVIEW . . . CME LIVE CATTLE UP ON BEEF DEMAND, EXPECTED HIGHER CASH . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

ORGANICPRICETRACKER.CA NEEDS YOUR PRICE LISTS!
Source: ACORN Started as a COG project in Ontario, ACORN expanded OrganicPriceTracker.ca to our region last year. The online tool serves as an easy-to-access resource where farmers can find regional price information, helping beginner farmers in establishing their own prices and similarly helping farmers of all experience levels to better understand the market for local organic products. (read more)

CLEAN ANNAPOLIS RIVER PROJECT ANNUAL MEETING
Source: CARP
The 2014 Annual General Meeting of the Clean Annapolis River Project (CARP) will take place on June 17 starting at 6pm with social greetings, snacks and refreshments. (read more)

NEW ONLINE FORUM FOR FRACKING REVIEW 
Source: CBU
Cape Breton University is conducting an online discussion forum beginning June 5 at 9am on the Topic: “The Potential Oil and Gas Resource Base in Nova Scotia Accessible by Hydraulic Fracturing.” This discussion forum has been developed to provide stakeholders with the opportunity to ask questions and provide comments directly to the expert panel on select discussion papers. This is part of the Hydraulic Fracturing Review's ongoing efforts to solicit feedback on the work of the Expert Panel. (read more) 

CME LIVE CATTLE UP ON BEEF DEMAND, EXPECTED HIGHER CASH
Source: The Western Producer
Chicago Mercantile Exchange live cattle closed higher on Tuesday as strong beef demand and expectations of higher prices in the cash market lent support, traders said. “When you have futures trading at a discount to the cash market, that usually creates a bullish situation,” Lane Broadbent, president of KIS Futures said. Last week, cash cattle in the U.S. Plains sold at $143 per hundredweight, feedlot sources said. This week the list of cattle for sale, known as a showlist, is smaller and could push prices higher, traders said. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

CANADIAN FOOD STUDIES
http://canadianfoodstudies.uwaterloo.ca/index.php/cfs

GOP DEMONIZES ONCE FAVORED CAP-AND-TRADE POLICY
http://www.npr.org/2014/06/03/318414868/gop-demonizes-once-favored-cap-and-trade-policy

STROLLING OF THE HEIFERS WEEKEND, JUNE 6, 7, 8!
http://www.strollingoftheheifers.com/strollweekend/

STUDY: BLUEBERRY LEAF EXTRACT CAN ADD SHELF LIFE
www.thepacker.com/fruit-vegetable-news/Study-Blueberry-leaf-extract-can-add-shelf-life-261723601.html

June 3, 2014

SHEEP, GOAT PRODUCERS INK DEAL . . . NEW SWINE DISEASE ADDED TO LIST OF REPORTABLE DISEASE . . .  LAST CALL FOR SURVEY SUBMISSIONS. . .   MANITOBA DECISION CRACKS OPEN EGG INSURANCE MARKET . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

SHEEP, GOAT PRODUCERS INK DEAL
Canadian sheep and goat producers are poised to expand their sales into Ukraine with a new federal agreement. Ukrainian sheep and goat breeders will have the opportunity to expand their breeding livestock genetics, says the federal government, with new market access for live small ruminants. (read more)

NEW SWINE DISEASE ADDED TO LIST OF REPORTABLE DISEASES
Source: AB Dept of Agriculture
The office of the province’s chief veterinarian has added a new name to the list of reportable diseases in the Alberta. The Swine Delta Coronavirus (SDVC) looks and acts much like the porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) that has caused problems in the swine industry in Ontario and much of the United States.  Swine Delta Corona virus first emerged in the US earlier this year and the first confirmed cases of SDCV in Canada were reported in Ontario last February. While less is known about Swine Delta Coronavirus, it appears to look and act very much like PED; it can cause diarrhea and vomiting in pigs. (read more)

LAST CALL FOR SURVEY SUBMISSIONS!
Source: Common Good Solutions Inc
We would love to hear from your organization in Nova Scotia regarding your social enterprise successes, but time is running out! You have until Monday, June 9 to complete the survey. (read more)

MANITOBA DECISION CRACKS OPEN EGG INSURANCE MARKET
Source: AEGIS
A ruling in Manitoba means that the province’s egg producers now have greater choice in the purchase of insurance for their businesses.  The ruling by Manitoba Farm Products Marketing Council on 9 January this year means that egg producers in the province are no longer compelled to purchase their Salmonella insurance from representative body Manitoba Eggs Farmers (MEF) but can buy other suitable private insurance products. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

FOREIGN WORKER SAFETY TRAINING VIDEOS
http://peifa.ca/peifa-today-monday-june-2-2014/

MAQUI BERRY EXTRACT SHOWS BLOOD SUGAR MANAGEMENT POTENTIAL BY NOVEL MECHANISM: STUDY
http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Research/Maqui-berry-extract-shows-blood-sugar-management-potential-by-novel-mechanism-Study?utm_source=copyright&utm_medium=OnSite&utm_campaign=copyright

THE LURE OF A BETTER FLY TRAP 
http://www.goodfruit.com/the-lure-of-a-better-fly-trap/

EXTENSION RESOURCES – ORGANIC BEEF PRODUCTION
http://www.organicagcentre.ca/Extension/livestock_beef.asp

June2, 2014

CAMPAIGN SENDS INJURED FARMERS BACK TO WORK . . . . DEAD STOCK SERVICES ANNOUNCES NEW COLLECTOR . . . . ACCESS 2014 . . . . COMPOSTING ON THE FARM. . . .  OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

CAMPAIGN SENDS INJURED FARMERS BACK TO WORK
Source: FCC
A new social media campaign will help raise funds to put injured farmers back work. Back to Ag, a partnership between Farm Credit Canada, the Rick Hansen Foundation and the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association, will provide resources to farmers and agricultural workers who have experienced life-altering injuries. (read more)

DEAD STOCK SERVICES ANNOUNCES NEW COLLECTOR
Source: NSFA
As many of you are already aware, Ted Shearer of Belmont has made the decision to retire. Ted has provided a valuable service on behalf of the Dead Stock Collection Services Committee to farmers in the central area of the province for the past decade. The Committee wishes Ted a long and happy retirement! (read more)

ACCESS 2014
Source: ACZISC
Atlantic Canada Coastal and Estuarine Science Society 2014 Conference will be held 12-14 June at Saint Mary’s University, Halifax, NS, immediately preceding the Coastal Zone Canada Conference. The meeting will feature a special session on restoration in the coastal zone. (read more)

COMPOSTING ON THE FARM
Source: Dal Faculty of Agriculture
Extended Learning at the Dalhousie Agricultural Campus is pleased to offer Composting on the Farm, a composting course for agricultural producers who are looking for waste management techniques for their operations. Led by Dr. Gordon Price, and Corey Roberts, participants will engage in a combination of speaker-led sessions and hands-on activities, to enable them to safely manage farm waste such as deadstock, manure, and other organic waste. This course is open to producers from all commodities and meets the requirements of the Nova Scotia Fur Industry Act and Fur Industry regulations. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

Welcome to the NS Bat Conservation Web Page
http://www.batconservation.ca/

White-Nose Syndrome in New Brunswick:
http://www2.gnb.ca/content/dam/gnb/Departments/nr-rn/pdf/en/Wildlife/Bats-WhiteNoseSyndrome.pdf

Update on the 2013/14 Canadian White Nose Syndrome Surveillance Season
http://www.healthywildlife.ca/category/white-nose-syndrome/

The real reason the French don’t get fat
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/the-real-reason-the-french-dont-get-fat/article18924862/

May 30, 2014

DRILLING PROGRAM SET FOR EAST KEMPTVILLE . . . GOT AN OPINION ABOUT DISPOSAL OF PLASTIC WASTE? USED TIRE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS? . . . . SEEDLING TECHNOLOGY PROJECT RECEIVES FUNDING . . . . ANTIQUE LICENCE PLATES TO INCLUDE TRACTORS . . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

DRILLING PROGRAM SET FOR EAST KEMPTVILLE
Source: The Chronicle Herald
Avalon Rare Metals Inc. of Toronto is proceeding with an estimated $500,000 drilling program at its East Kemptville tin and indium site in Yarmouth County, N.S. The company said it has entered into an agreement with the surface-rights holder to secure required land access. http://halifaxchronicle.can.newsmemory.com/?token=BKqhht2yV7dqWeFnLnuNGA%3d%3d

GOT AN OPINION ABOUT DISPOSAL OF PLASTIC WASTE? USED TIRE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS?
Source: NSEF
Nova Scotia has now released a consultation paper on new stewardship regulations “Revising Our Path Forward: A public discussion paper about solid waste regulation in Nova Scotia.” It is a discussion paper on how many products in agriculture are currently disposed: used tires, plastic wrap, greenhouse containers, and the list goes on to include other items we all use, plastic bottles (bottle deposit program), oils, paints, electronics. (read more) 
 
SEEDLING TECHNOLOGY PROJECT RECEIVES FUNDING
Source: Farm Focus
J.D. Irving Ltd. has received $1,482,000 for its seedling technology project in Sussex, New Brunswick. When completed the mechanized state-of-the-art research facility at the tree nursery will use somatic embryogenesis to produce up to four million improved seedlings annually. (read more)

ANTIQUE LICENCE PLATES TO INCLUDE TRACTORS
Source: Service Nova Scotia
Government is expanding the antique licence plate program to include farm tractors that are 30 years old and over. “These special plates will recognize the uniqueness of these tractors,” said Agriculture Minister Keith Colwell, on behalf of Service Nova Scotia Minister Mark Furey. “The plates will also enable the antique tractor owners to participate and support community events such as parades, agricultural shows and community fairs.” About 100 active members participate in more than 24 agricultural fairs across the province. (read more) 

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

IRWINDALE ENDS LAWSUIT AGAINST SRIRACHA MAKER HUY FONG
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-27630047

OHIO ROLLS BACK RENEWABLES 
http://takingnote.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/05/29/ohio-rolls-back-renewables/?_php=true&_type=blogs&hp&rref=opinion&_r=0

COMING SOON: A SUMMER OF UGLY FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
http://www.npr.org/blogs/13.7/2014/05/29/317012066/coming-soon-a-summer-of-ugly-fruits-and-vegetables

OTTAWA TO REVIEW GREENHOUSE GAS STRATEGY
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-to-review-greenhouse-gas-strategy/article18770657/

May 29, 2014

MINISTER TO HOLD FORUM ON COMPANION ANIMAL PROTECTION . . . TRULEAF POSITION AVAILABLE . . .  WAGGLING BEES GIVE THEIR VERDICT ON A LANDSCAPE . . .  CANADA’S GROCERS EMBRACE THE MAGIC OF MUSHROOMS . . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

MINISTER TO HOLD FORUM ON COMPANION ANIMAL PROTECTION
Source: N.S. Dept of Agriculture
An annual Minister's Forum on Companion Animal Protection will be launched this fall, bringing together animal welfare advocates and enforcement officials. "This will be an opportunity for dialogue on animal protection issues such as standards of care, enforcement and training,” said Agriculture Minister Keith Colwell. The by-invitation-only forum, to be held in Halifax, will bring together key stakeholders. The department is reviewing and assessing the 317 responses received from the public and stakeholder groups concerning the draft standards of care for domestic animals. The feedback will be assessed and taken into consideration as the final version of the standards of care is completed, which is expected for the fall. (read more)

TRULEAF POSITION AVAILABLE
Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
TruLeaf has an opening for a Plant Systems Specialist (Vertical Farming. Location: Bible Hill/Halifax, Nova Scotia. Term: Full Time/Permanent. Start date: August 2014. With a passion for delicious, nutrient-rich food, TruLeaf was started in 2011 in Halifax, Canada. Our technology, the TruLeaf Smart Plant System, is a multi-layer plant farm that grows fresh produce anywhere in the world, regardless of environment, 365 days a year. The System combines innovations in agricultural lighting systems with leading edge hydroponic, controlled environment technologies to produce sustainable, safe, nutrient-dense leafy plants. With applications for retail grocery and the nutraceuticals/functional food markets, the TruLeaf System integrates proprietary innovations in equipment design, farm layout, and plant production formulas to produce clean, pesticide-free, nutrient-rich leafy plants year-round. The position – System operation, maintenance and monitoring: Monitor system for deficiencies, identify areas for improvement and ensure system is running optimally. Define timelines and budgets for system improvement projects. – Growing area maintenance and monitoring: Ensure clean workable growing area. Monitor area for deficiencies in terms of structure and environment. Investigate optimal space usage and environmental stability. – Lab area maintenance and monitoring: Ensure lab supplies are stored and kept up to date and in stock including gas, water, seeding, and other growing supplies. Ensure a clean and safe work area. – Plant monitoring: Inspecting for possible issues or deficiencies, in collaboration with Plant Research Specialist. – Communicate with Japanese business contacts. Qualifications  Competitive applicants will have: – Degree in Plant Science – Experience growing plants in an indoor growth chamber, including calculating requirements for air and water flow, LED lighting, nutrient formulation, temperature and all other necessary consideration – Experience with environmental control systems (e.g. Argus, Priva), in a multi-level environment – Experience with scheduling; along with collecting and analyzing data related to plant trials – Bilingual in English and Japanese to act as a liaison with our contacts in Japan, (other languages would be considered an asset) – Strong organizational skills and ability to function in a fast paced team environment. To apply please send a cover letter and CV to careers@truleaf.ca, with the subject line “Plant Systems Specialist application

WAGGLING BEES GIVE THEIR VERDICT ON A LANDSCAPE
Source: NYTimes
European officials have spent more than $56 billion over the past decade in a program to mitigate landscape change and encourage environmentally friendly practices by farmers. But there is little evidence on how effective these vast expenditures have been. So researchers at the University of Sussex in Brighton, England, decided to seek the opinion of some discriminating judges of environmental quality: bees. (read more)

CANADA’S GROCERS EMBRACE THE MAGIC OF MUSHROOMS
Source: The Globe and Mail
The lowly mushroom is emerging as a secret weapon for profit-hungry grocers. Supermarkets are trying to lure shoppers with pricier exotic varieties ranging from king oysters to enokis and cinnamon caps. The gradual shift to specialty mushrooms from traditional white-button types is driven by retailers’ bid to cash in on a growing number of new Canadians who seek out familiar products and foodies looking for something different. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

MARKET FOCUS: CATTLE MARKETS CONTINUE TO RALLY
https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/ag-knowledge/publications/fcc-express/fcc-express-archives/20140523.html?utm_source=FCC+Emails&utm_campaign=21f2e0d24d-Express_May_23_20145_23_2014&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ec568fff6d-21f2e0d24d-16338805#story9

NANOCELLULOSE: TRANSFORMATIONAL NEW MATERIAL FROM THE FOREST PRODUCTS INDUSTRY 
http://www.risi.com/nanocellulose

RESOLUTE EMPLOYEES ACCEPT CONTRACT THAT WILL SET PATTERN FOR EASTERN MILLS
http://www.pulpandpapercanada.com/news/resolute-employees-accept-contract/1003083693/438qvsM3oyW6x08yM2vx/?ref=enews_PP&utm_source=PP&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PP-EN05282014

NANCY PHILLIPS HERBALISM WORKSHOP
http://www.acornorganic.org/events/calendar/nancy-phillips-herbalism-workshop

May 28, 2014

NEW MARKET OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPECIAL CROPS . . . INTRODUCING GREENHOUSE CANADA’S TOP 10 UNDER 40 . . . HOW CAN WE BUILD DEEP RICH SOILS IN NEW ENGLAND? . . . ORGANIC CO-OP OFFERS ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP TO CONSUMERS. . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

NEW MARKET OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPECIAL CROPS
Source: FCC
More than $230,000 from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's AgriMarketing Program will help the Canadian Special Crops Association promote Canadian pulses and special crops on trade missions and at international trade shows. The funding will assist the CSCA as it advocates for favorable policies that will position Canada as a world leader and supplier of choice. (read more)

INTRODUCING GREENHOUSE CANADA’S TOP 10 UNDER 40
Source: Greenhouse Canada
Canada is full of young, skilled, and knowledgeable people who are driving the greenhouse industry forward. Greenhouse Canada’s Top 10 Under 40 program will recognize the achievements of the newest generation of greenhouse industry workers. Strong work ethics, leadership by example, and efforts to grow the quality of our industry will all be acknowledged. (read more) 

HOW CAN WE BUILD DEEP RICH SOILS IN NEW ENGLAND?
Source: NOFA
The work of Allan Savory and others has shown that holistically planned grazing can restore soils and wildlife habitat, improve the water cycle, feed people, and sustain rural livelihoods. (read more)

ORGANIC CO-OP OFFERS ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP TO CONSUMERS
Source: PEI Canada
The welcome mat is now out for non-farmers to become more involved in the PEI Certified Organic Producers Coop. During its recent annual meeting, Co-op members decided to create a new membership category. Associate membership is open to those who support the goals and aspirations of the organization, but who may not necessarily be involved in the industry. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

BUMPER APPLE AND CHERRY CROPS FORECASTED
https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/ag-knowledge/publications/fcc-express/fcc-express-archives/20140516.html?utm_source=FCC+Emails&utm_campaign=656d968b78-FCC_Express_May_16_2014_EN_5_13_2014&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ec568fff6d-656d968b78-16338805#story6

IF LOCAL FARMS AREN’T LOCAL ENOUGH, BUY FROM THE ROOFTOP
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2014/05/24/313097487/if-local-farms-arent-local-enough-buy-from-the-rooftop

UK LOOKS TO BOOST FRACKING WITH NEW LAND ACCESS RULES
http://www.bbc.com/news/business-27529175

MEMORIAL DAY BEEF RECALL
http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/health/2014/05/26/exp-cohen-beef-recall-memorial-day.cnn.html

May 27, 2014

NEW VOLUNTARY GUIDELINES FOR YOUNG FARM WORKERS . . . NEW EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT FOR FPINNOVATIONS. . . . PREMIERS FOCUSED ON ECONOMIC GROWTH . . . CANFAX LAUNCHES NEW LIVESTOCK APP . . . AGRISPIRIT FUND – APPLY AND QUALIFY FOR A CASH DONATION . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

NEW VOLUNTARY GUIDELINES FOR YOUNG FARM WORKERS
Source: Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA)
Farm kids are a special breed. They are often precocious, dedicated, smart and willing to help out on the farm. However, even the most advanced young worker doesn’t have the knowledge, experience or judgment of a seasoned farm worker. With so many youth starting summer jobs on the farm, parents and employers of young farm workers need to have a clear understanding of youth development levels, abilities, limitations and know when and how to set clear rules and boundaries for any work assigned to a young person. (read more)

NEW EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT FOR FPINNOVATIONS
Source: CNW Group
Dr. Trevor Stuthridge has accepted the position of Executive Vice President at FPInnovations effective July 1, 2014.  In this role, Dr. Stuthridge will be responsible for leading FPInnovations’ operations divisions through effective leadership, management, and support of its key resource, employees. In addition, he will be responsible for the Preventative Health and Safety Strategy across the organisation and champion the development and delivery of the Operational Strategic Plan. (read more)

PREMIERS FOCUSED ON ECONOMIC GROWTH
Source: Communications Nova Scotia
The Atlantic premiers are focused on developing the region’s natural and human resources and enhancing international trade efforts to strengthen the economy and create new opportunities for Atlantic Canadians.  The premiers see the energy sector as a key driver for jobs and industrial development. Atlantic Canada has abundant energy resources, including oil and natural gas, hydro, wind and other energy sources. The annual Council of Atlantic Premiers meeting took place May 26, in Saint John, N.B. (read more)

CANFAX LAUNCHES NEW LIVESTOCK APP
Source: Agri-News
Cattle producers all along the supply chain now have access to a new, free market prices mobile app based on historical Canfax data. CFXPro is for those looking to have access to breakeven calculators, price projections, as well as standard market information on Canadian cattle. (read more)

AGRISPIRIT FUND – APPLY AND QUALIFY FOR A CASH DONATION
Source: NSFA FCC AgriSpirit Fund is about enhancing rural communities. If your organization is raising money for a capital project and your city or town has less than 150,000 people, it may qualify for a donation between $5,000 and $25,000 to supplement your other fundraising efforts. Apply now until June 12, 2014. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

UKRAINE TO ACCEPT CANADIAN PUREBRED SHEEP, GOATS
http://www.grainews.ca/daily/ukraine-to-accept-canadian-purebred-sheep-goats

ANTI-GMO CAMP TAKES AIM AT ARCTIC APPLE
http://www.producer.com/daily/anti-gmo-camp-takes-aim-at-arctic-apple/

FOOD, ENERGY FOCUS OF TALK
http://rutlandherald.com/article/20140526/BUSINESS03/705269979/1011/BUSINESS

ORGANIC INPUTS DIRECTORY
http://www.organicinputs.ca/en/

May 26, 2014

RETIREMENT RECEPTION . . . NEW RESEARCH SHOWS N.S. FARMERS’ MARKETS FEEDING OUR ECONOMY . . . COOL DEBATE BACK IN COURT . . . WASTEWATER “PERFECTLY FINE” TO USE . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

NEW RESEARCH SHOWS N.S. FARMERS’ MARKETS FEEDING OUR ECONOMY
Source: Farmers’ Markets of Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia's farmers' markets have long been praised for serving up fresh, local produce and a vibrant social atmosphere. New research turns the spotlight on the economic impact of farmers' markets across the province. According to an economic impact study released today by the Farmers' Markets of Nova Scotia Cooperative (FMNS), 55,000 people shop at
Nova Scotia's farmers' markets each week, spending 20 percent of their food budget on local goods and helping to keep more than 1,500 local producers in business. (read more)

COOL DEBATE BACK IN COURT
Source: FCC
Canadian livestock producers were in an American courtroom earlier this week fighting against labelling requirements blamed for having devastated their exports to the United States. The case revolves around the free-speech rights guaranteed in the First Amendment. Canadian and Mexican producers, and the U.S. partners they supply, argue those speech rights are being violated by the requirement that they stamp country of origin labels on meat packaging. (read more)

WASTEWATER “PERFECTLY FINE” TO USE
Lafarge has begun using fracking wastewater in its cement plant near Brookfield. Trucks started hauling the wastewater from Atlantic Industrial Services in Debert for use in the Lafarge cement-making kiln earlier this week. “This is twice-treated water," said Lori Errington, a spokeswoman for the provincial Environment Department. “It has had the chemicals removed through reverse osmosis; it had the norms reduced to below Canadian standards. The water meets the standards to be released into the drinking water supply, a freshwater source. It’s perfectly fine to be used for anything at this point in time. It meets all those criteria." (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

THE COWS DID WHAT?
http://www.npr.org/blogs/13.7/2014/05/22/314871620/the-cows-did-what

HOW ORGANIC CAVIAR BECAME A MADE-IN-CANADA SUCCESS STORY
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/video/video-how-caviar-became-a-made-in-canada-success-story/article17692718/

APPLICATIONS BEING ACCEPTED FOR RESIDENT MOOSE DRAW
http://www.sackvilletribunepost.com/News/2014-05-16/article-3728620/Applications-being-accepted-for-resident-moose-draw/1

THE TINY REGION THAT PRODUCES NEARLY HALF OF U.S. MUSHROOMS
http://modernfarmer.com/category/plants-and-animals/