March 24, 2015

NATURAL BEEKEEPING WORKSHOP … DEVELOP A SAFETY STRATEGY FOR WORKING ALONE ON THE FARM … MUSHROOM CULTURE … FLOWER-FRIENDLY FARMS “BOOST BEE POPULATIONS” … BEYOND FACTORY FARMING …OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

NATURAL BEEKEEPING WORKSHOP 
Source: ThinkFarm
Bello Uccello Honeybee Sanctuary, a Certified Demeter Biodynamic Apiary, will be holding its tenth Beginners Beekeeping Workshop based on Biodynamic Principles on Wednesday and Thursday, June l7-18 and a second one on Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21. Klaus Langpohl, an experienced certified biodynamic beekeeper, will be your teacher and guide as he shares with you, one-on-one, the Amazing Life of the Honey Bee, inside and outside of the Hive. The workshop is designed to prepare you for your journey to become a Natural Beekeeper based on biodynamic principles. This is an intensive l5 hours of classroom and outdoor, hands-on experiences. (read more)

DEVELOP A SAFETY STRATEGY FOR WORKING ALONE ON THE FARM
Source: AARD
Farm workers are often required to perform tasks alone, particularly during peak seasons such as spring and harvest. Working alone adds an increased element of danger on top of the hazards inherently presented by the tasks themselves.  “It is crucial that farm employers or supervisors assess the work area and take preventative measures to eliminate or minimize risks, particularly when employees work alone,” says Kenda Lubeck, farm safety coordinator for Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development. “They should also ensure workers have an effective way of communicating with someone who can respond immediately if there is an emergency.” (read more)

MUSHROOM CULTURE
Source: Harrison Lewis Centre Mark your calendars for this year’s Mushroom Growing workshop, June 5, 6, 7 with instructors David Boyle and John Crabtree at the Harrison Lewis Centre on Nova Scotia’s beautiful South Shore.  The weekend program will start with an introduction to mushroom culture with Boyle, and workshops on growing Shitake and using mushrooms as biological control agents. John Crabtree, on the board of the N.S. Mycological Society, will offer workshops including natural history and mushroom identification. Study, grow, eat them. Learn more about their curious culture. The course cost is $275, and includes the instructors’ fee, shared cabin accommodation for two nights, five meals (from Saturday breakfast through Sunday lunch). (read more)

FLOWER-FRIENDLY FARMS “BOOST BEE POPULATIONS”
Source: BBC Planting farmland with strips of flowers can boost the number of wild bumblebees, a study has confirmed. Not only does it attract foraging bees, but it also encourages nesting, say researchers at University of Sussex. In past decades, many bumblebee species have declined, due to a number of factors, including intensive farming. (read more)

BEYOND FACTORY FARMING
Source: Beyond Family Farming
We are a national organization promoting socially responsible livestock production in Canada. We help communities that are dealing with problems caused by factory farms and factory farm proposals. As an alternative to industrial livestock operations, we promote livestock production that is safe, fair, and healthy for the environment, farmers, workers, animals, neighbors, communities, and consumers. Establishing socially responsible livestock production is a means to reach the overarching goal of food sovereignty – democratic citizen control of our food and agriculture system. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

4-H SPRING GALA
http://novascotia4h.ca/category/latest-news/

HOMEGROWN SUCCESS PROGRAM
http://novascotia.ca/agri/documents/programs-brm/HGS2015-infosessions.pdf

FOR THE LOVE OF PORK: ANTIBIOTIC USE ON FARMS SKYROCKETS WORLDWIDE
http://www.npr.org/blogs/goatsandsoda/2015/03/20/394064680/for-the-love-of-pork-antibiotic-use-on-farms-skyrockets-worldwide

CANADIAN RANCH AWARDED FOR STEWARDSHIP ON PERMANENT PASTURE
http://www.thebeefsite.com/news/47643/canadian-ranch-awarded-for-stewardship-on-permanent-pasture

March 23, 2015

ARCTIC APPLE DEVELOPED IN B.C. APPROVED FOR SALE IN CANADA … WILDLIFE INVESTIGATING POSSIBLE CARIBOU HUNT … GLOBAL PAPER AND PAPERBOARD GROWTH FORECAST … INFORMATION SESSIONS PLANNED ON NEW PROGRAM …OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

ARCTIC APPLE DEVELOPED IN B.C. APPROVED FOR SALE IN CANADA
Source: CBC.ca
A genetically modified non-browning Arctic apple, developed in B.C., has been approved for sale in Canada, just weeks after it received similar approval in the U.S.
The success of the fruit, developed by Okanagan Specialty Fruits (OSF), has led to a multi-million dollar sales deal with Intrexon Corporation, an American company involved in synthetic biology. (read more)

WILDLIFE INVESTIGATING POSSIBLE CARIBOU HUNT
Source: The Labradorian
A spokesman for the Department of Justice has informed The Labradorian that an investigation has been launched into an alleged illegal caribou hunt carried out recently in Labrador West. “I can confirm that officers with the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division were notified by a tip from the general public of an alleged incident of illegal caribou hunting in the Labrador West region,” the spokesman wrote in an emailed statement. “An investigation is currently underway but no charges have been laid at this point.” (read more)

GLOBAL PAPER AND PAPERBOARD GROWTH FORECAST 
Source: Pulp & Paper Canada
World demand for paper and paperboard is forecast to grow to 482 million tons in 2030, but North America will experience shrinking demand, according to Pöyry Management Consulting. This equals an overall increase of 1.1percent per year, with variations by grade. These are the conclusions of a global paper market study “World Paper Markets up to 2030” conducted by Pöyry. The management group also predicts a strong need for structural changes in the paper industry. “Especially in Western Europe we find an urgent need for further capacity reductions. After the markets in the emerging Asian regions have become more mature, the industry needs to take a more disciplined approach as to capacity expansions,” says Timo Suhonen from Pöyry Management Consulting. (read more)

INFORMATION SESSIONS PLANNED ON NEW PROGRAM
Source: Island Farmer
AgriInterCulture will be holding information sessions for farmers interested in taking part in its program during the last week of March. The program has been created by the Coopérative d'intégration francophone de l’Î.-P.-É. (CIF) to help P.E.I. farmers fill their need for skilled labor. AgriInterCulture encourages young Francophones, aged 18 to 35, with a diploma, experience, and general skills in agriculture to enjoy an unforgettable experience in the province while working as qualified labor on Island farms. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

WITH URBAN FARMING, 3 GUYS IN QUEENS MIGHT SAVE THE WORLD
http://www.organicauthority.com/with-urban-farming-3-guys-in-queens-might-save-the-world/

PREMIER ATTENDS WORLD’S LARGEST MINING CONVENTION AND TRADE SHOW
http://www.releases.gov.nl.ca/releases/2015/exec/0303n05.aspx

SHOULDER ULCERS AFFECT BEHAVIOR OF SOWS
http://www.pigprogress.net/Health-Diseases/General/2015/3/Shoulder-ulcers-affect-behaviour-of-sows-1731812W/

EU AGRICULTURE COUNCIL DISCUSS HARMONISATION OF ORGANIC FARMING
http://www.thesheepsite.com/news/992/eu-agriculture-council-discuss-harmonisation-of-organic-farming

March 20, 2015

CRAMPED CHICKEN CAGES ARE GOING AWAY. WHAT COMES NEXT? . . . SO FAR, SOY GOOD FOR ATLANTIC ROASTED PRODUCTS . . . FARM VEHICLE SINGLE-FEE REGISTRATION NOW OFFERED . . . ONE IN TEN WILD BEES FACE EXTINCTION IN EUROPE . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

CRAMPED CHICKEN CAGES ARE GOING AWAY. WHAT COMES NEXT?
Source: NPR For the past two years, at an undisclosed location in the upper Midwest, a large commercial egg farm has been probed with every tool of modern science. Researchers have collected data on feed consumed, eggs produced, rates of chicken death and injury, levels of dust in the air, microbial contamination, and dollars spent. Graduate students have been assigned to watch hours of video of the hens in an effort to rate the animals’ well being. (read more)

SO FAR, SOY GOOD FOR ATLANTIC ROASTED PRODUCTS
Source: Farm Focus
Atlantic Roasted Products is big into soybeans. With the purchase of new equipment through recent government loans, Atlantic Roasted Products will be able to offer commercial scale custom roasting of soybeans. Through this venture, the Montague, Prince Edward Island company plans to sell soybean feed supplements to producers of livestock, dairy, and poultry. Soybean feed supplements have numerous benefits for livestock, says the company, and provide a cost-efficient source of energy and protein. (read more)

FARM VEHICLE SINGLE-FEE REGISTRATION NOW OFFERED
Source: CBC.ca
P.E.I. Farmers will soon have the option of paying a one-time only fee for registering farm trucks and trailers. Starting April 6, farm vehicle owners can choose to pay a one-time only $100 fee for each farm-plated vehicle, rather than the yearly $10 fee. (read more)

ONE IN TEN WILD BEES FACE EXTINCTION IN EUROPE
Almost one in 10 of Europe’s native wild bees face extinction, according to the most comprehensive expert assessment so far. The European Red List, drawn up by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, found 9.2 percent of nearly 2,000 species are threatened with extinction. Another 5 percent are likely to be threatened in the near future. Threats include loss of habitat from intensive farming, pesticide use, urban development, and climate change. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

NEW REPORT HIGHLIGHTS CRITICAL VALUE OF SALMON FARMING GLOBALLY
http://www.perishablenews.com/index.php?article=0043199

WHY THE LONG FACE? TRADITIONAL STABLES MAKE HORSES DEPRESSED
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/science/11478930/Why-the-long-face-Traditional-stables-make-horses-depressed.html

CHINA – NETHERLANDS COOPERATION ON IMPROVEMENT OF CHINA POTATO PRODUCTION
http://www.potatopro.com/news/2015/china-netherlands-cooperation-improvement-china-potato-production

GROUP SAYS MAGAZINE’S GUIDE ON PRODUCE BUYING IS MISLEADING
http://www.producenews.com/news-dep-menu/test-featured/15371-group-says-magazine-s-guide-on-produce-buying-is-misleading

March 19, 2015

P.E.I. FEDERATION OF AGRICULTURE PRAISES FOOD PROVINCE PROPOSAL … N.B. ONLINE MAP SHOWS DETAILS OF CROWN FORESTS … COMPLICATED SPICE RECALL UNDERWAY … GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF FAST-GROWING BROILERS … CDN DOLLAR IMPROVES U.S. GRAIN HAULOTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

OXFORD JOURNAL CEASING PUBLICATION
Source: http://www.cumberlandnewsnow.com
“It’s so sad, it’s almost like a death in the family,” Webb said. “I feel as though I’ve lost a longtime friend.”
Publishing since 1898, the Oxford Journal is one of the last independently-owned weekly newspapers in the Maritimes. Publisher Paul Marchant pulled his staff together on Tuesday to announce the paper would cease publication immediately. (read more)

P.E.I. FEDERATION OF AGRICULTURE PRAISES FOOD PROVINCE PROPOSAL
Source: The Guardian
The P.E.I. Federation of Agriculture is welcoming Premier Wade MacLauchlan’s announcement that government will strengthen support for P.E.I.’s food sector and brand the province as “Canada’s Food Province.” Federation executive director John Jamieson says this is a recognition of the role food production and processing has on P.E.I.’s history and economy and is a plan to further develop the sector. (read more)

N.B. ONLINE MAP SHOWS DETAILS OF CROWN FORESTS
Source: Pulp & Paper Canada
A new online map released by the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources shows, in detail, Crown land conservation areas as well as changes in those areas in relation to the Crown Land Forest Management Strategy released by the province one year ago.
“This is a continuation of our commitment to be more transparent and open with the public in relation to Crown forests,” said Natural Resources Minister Denis Landry. “ (read more)

COMPLICATED SPICE RECALL UNDERWAY
Source: OntarioFarmer.com
Salmonella contamination in garlic powder has prompted a complicated recall of organic spices, soup mixes, dips, and seasonings sold by Frontier Co-op of Norway, Iowa. The recall is across all of the United States and Canada and includes Internet sales. The products are under the Frontier and Simply Organic labels. The complete listing is posted on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website. (read more)

GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF FAST-GROWING BROILERS
Source: The Journal of Applied Poultry research
Outdoor access is an important part of organic and free-range poultry production, yet limited information exists on the effect of various housing and production systems on growth performance and colonization of food-borne pathogens. Therefore, the primary purpose of the current study was to evaluate the influence of different housing systems, particularly fixed versus small, portable houses, with and without outdoor access to pasture, on seasonal growth performance, leg quality, and presence of bacterial food-borne pathogens. (read more)

CDN DOLLAR IMPROVES U.S. GRAIN HAUL
Source: The Western Producer
The declining value of the Canadian dollar continues to provide attractive marketing opportunities for western Canadian farmers who don’t mind trucking their grain across the U.S. border. The Canadian dollar has traded between US94 and 78 cents in the past 12 months, with some brokers offering rates as low as 75 cents. That exchange rate has a lot of Canadian growers looking south of the border for marketing opportunities. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

UN REPORT: AGRICULTURE BEARS BRUNT OF NATURAL DISASTERS
http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-31906909

CANADIAN PIG HERD RECOVERED FROM PEDV
http://www.pigprogress.net/Growing-Finishing/General/2015/3/Canadian-pig-herd-recovered-from-PEDv-1728116W/

IS IT TIME WE EMBRACED GM CROPS?
http://www.thebeefsite.com/news/47609/is-it-time-we-embraced-gm-crops

STUCK!! HOW TO PULL THEM OUT SAFELY
http://www.grainews.ca/2015/03/18/spinning-out-with-farm-equipment-3/

March 18, 2015

SNOW DAMAGE REPORT … LAKEVILLE FAMILY MAKING EVERY MOMENT COUNT AFTER DEVASTATING CANCER DIAGNOSIS… SWN RESOURCES GRANTED EXPLORATION LICENCE EXTENSION DESPITE MORATORIUM … FUTURE OF ANTIBIOTICS GROWS IN HORSE MANURE… TWO AGRICULTURAL WEBINARS SLATED FOR NEXT WEEK … OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

SNOW DAMAGE REPORT
Source: NSFA There have been steady and recurring hits of winter weather that are affecting farmers in various ways since the end of January and the Federation of Agriculture has been hearing many reports of damage caused by the snow, wind, and ice. Greenhouse Nova Scotia has compiled a scan of damage in their industry and we would like to do the same for the industry as a whole. There have been discussions with the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and without an accurate scan of the industry, we cannot stress to government the extensive damage suffered by farmers. You may have already contacted us, but please contact us again to report if you have had damage related to the recent winter weather; details of the structural damage, loss of livestock, cost estimation of the loss, and if the loss was insurable or not.  Once the list is compiled, we will get to work, advocating on behalf of farmers. (read more)

LAKEVILLE FAMILY MAKING EVERY MOMENT COUNT AFTER DEVASTATING CANCER DIAGNOSIS
Source: Kings County News
It’s the simple things that matter most to David Ells as he turns his attention to staying in his home for as long as possible following a devastating diagnosis. “We’re just going to focus on our family and spending as much time with the family as possible,” said Ells. The 37-year-old, who is married with two young daughters, is battling cholangiocarcinoma. He’s been poked, prodded, and operated on, but doctors have concluded the cancer, which grows in bile ducts, is untreatable in its progressed state. (read more)

SWN RESOURCES GRANTED EXPLORATION LICENCE EXTENSION DESPITE MORATORIUM
Source: CBC.ca
The Gallant government has given SWN Resources a one-year extension on its exploration licence, despite a moratorium on shale gas development in New Brunswick. Energy Minister Donald Arseneault refuses to predict if the fracking moratorium will ever be lifted. SWN has already told the provincial government it plans to shift its resources elsewhere because of the moratorium bill, which hasn’t passed yet. But Energy Minister Donald Arseneault says he’s willing to extend the company's exploration licence as long as it realizes five conditions must be met before the moratorium is lifted. (read more)

FUTURE OF ANTIBIOTICS GROWS IN HORSE MANURE
Source: The Globe & Mail
European biologists have discovered a bacteria-killing compound in common mushrooms that grow in horse dung. Unusually for an antibiotic, copsin is a protein; but laboratory trials showed it to have the same effect on bacteria as traditional antibiotics. (read more)

TWO AGRICULTURAL WEBINARS SLATED FOR NEXT WEEK
Source: Island Farmer
Farm Management Canada will be coordinating two upcoming webinars. On March 24 at 1 pm Atlantic Dairy farmers of Canada will present a session entitled “The proAction initiative – a game changer for dairy farmers?” The next day, Owen Roberts will lead a session as part of the Agriculture More Than Ever series entitled “Agvocacy through better Blogging.”  (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

SOAK AWAY YOUR HAY’S HIDDEN DANGERS
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/35454/soak-away-your-hays-hidden-dangers

PORK NOVA SCOTIA ANNUAL MEETING MARCH 20
http://nsfa-fane.ca/calendarevent/pork-nova-scotia-annual-meeting-2/

2016 NUFFIELD  FARMING SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS OPEN
http://nuffield.ca/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/2016-applications-open.pdf?utm_source=Subscribe+to+FCC+Email&utm_campaign=e997c448ee-FCC_Express_March_13_20153_13_2015&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ecca3657d7-e997c448ee-18200761

THE FATE OF THE WORLD’S CHOCOLATE DEPENDS ON THIS SPOT IN RURAL ENGLAND
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2015/03/11/392355408/the-fate-of-the-worlds-chocolate-depends-on-this-spot-in-rural-england

March 17, 2015

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND WOODLOT OWNERS ASSOCIATION AGM . . .ONTARIO GRAIN FARMERS WANT ONE MILLION ACRES FOR POLLINATORS . . . GLOBAL DEPENDENCE ON FOOD IMPORTS LEAVES COUNTRIES VULNERABLE . . . NEW NATURAL WEED CONTROL PRODUCTS FOR ORGANICALLY GROWN PRODUCTS . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND WOODLOT OWNERS ASSOCIATION AGM
Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
The Annual Meeting of the Prince Edward Island Woodlot Owners Association  (PEIWOA) will be held at the Farm Center, University Ave., Charlottetown on Saturday, April 18 at 9am. It is open to all woodlot owners on P.E.I. and membership is $25 a year or $40 for two years.  Agenda will include presentations on: buffer zone harvesting – pilot project; present market opportunities and trends; Forest Improvement Program for P.E.I.; value-added opportunities for woodlot owners; development of sustainable biomass opportunities; Commodity Association with the PEIFA; and other items. For details and membership info contact John Rowe, 902-940-1933.

ONTARIO GRAIN FARMERS WANT ONE MILLION ACRES FOR POLLINATORS 
Source: FCC
By 2018, Ontario’s grain farmers hope to see one million acres of self-sustaining pollinator habitat identified and preserved. In what it calls its Ontario Pollinator Health Blueprint, the Grain Farmers of Ontario says repurposing farmland, private land, and public land for pollinator-friendly habitat would mean continuous blooms throughout the growing season could be available to bees and other pollinators. To that end, the organization wants a registry created in which such habitat could be monitored. The registry would provide a mechanism to know what habitat and programs already exist, and a way to track new habitat and programs.  (read more)

GLOBAL DEPENDENCE ON FOOD IMPORTS LEAVES COUNTRIES VULNERABLE
Source: Pork Network
Global grain imports have increased more than fivefold over the past half century, stoking fears that countries have become too dependent on the vagaries of international markets for their food, an environmental researcher said. If prices rise, or wild weather prompts countries to impose grain export bans, as Russia did in 2010, nations heavily dependent on imports could face crisis. More than a third of countries import at least 25 percent of their grains, an increase of 57 percent since 1961, said Gary Gardner, a researcher at the Worldwatch Institute in Washington. (read more)

NEW NATURAL WEED CONTROL PRODUCTS FOR ORGANICALLY GROWN PRODUCTS
Source: Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada
Demand for organic food has grown tremendously throughout the developed world. Weed control remains the most significant agronomic problem associated with organic crop production. There is a need for more effective weed management, utilizing biological and lower-risk products. Developing new natural weed control products with superior weed management to control or effectively suppress weeds will help the organic crop production industry remain competitive and sustainable into the future. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

“BIRD NURSERY” AT RISK UNLESS HALF OF CANADA’S BOREAL FOREST PRESERVED
http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/bird-nursery-at-risk-unless-half-of-canada-s-boreal-forest-preserved-1.2994212

TO SUPPLEMENT OR NOT TO SUPPLEMENT
http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/newslett.nsf/all/agnw23421

CFIA SUSPENDS COSTCO CANADA’S FISH IMPORT LICENCE
http://www.ctvnews.ca/business/cfia-suspends-costco-canada-s-fish-import-licence-1.2282090

NO CHLOROPICRIN DETECTED IN TESTS
http://www.peicanada.com/news/article_b1375c9c-c74d-11e4-9f17-cb191b56e7e6.html

March 16, 2015

CANADIAN BEEF CONTINUES TO HEAD SOUTH . . . SOCIAL MEDIA FOR AGRICULTURE IN TRURO . . . ROUNDTABLE LOOKS AT CHALLENGES GROWING ORGANIC GRAIN . . . SWN HALTING FRACKING PLANS A TURNING POINT FOR N.B. SHALE GAS . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

CANADIAN BEEF CONTINUES TO HEAD SOUTH
Source: FCC
The Canadian beef cattle herd continues to shrink as a growing number of animals are shipped to the United States. Statistics Canada estimates there were 9.9 million head on beef operations as of Jan. 1, 2015. That's a 2.9 percent decline compared to the 10.3 million cattle on farm at the beginning of 2014. There was an even steeper decline in Saskatchewan, where total cattle in beef operations was estimated at 2.2 million head on Jan. 1, down five percent from the previous year. Many producers are taking advantage of record prices to recoup lost equity from the past decade. Other older farmers are using the opportunity to retire. (read more)

SOCIAL MEDIA FOR AGRICULTURE IN TRURO 
Source: NSFA 
This 40 hour course will allow agriculture operators and managers to improve their knowledge in social media marketing and online identity skills. This course will run from April 14 - June 16, Tuesday mornings from 9 am to 1 pm. Don't delay, register now for this course and gain important knowledge for your farm business with respect to social media. smackenzie@nsfa-fane.ca

ROUNDTABLE LOOKS AT CHALLENGES GROWING ORGANIC GRAIN
Source: Island Farmer
As far as Dr. Heather Darby is concerned, the best research innovations cut across the organic-conventional divide. “Regardless of what kind of farming you do, if you don’t take care of the soil, it won’t take care of you,” the University of Vermont researcher said in an interview. “It really boils down to that basic truth.” Darby was in the province recently to take part in a workshop and roundtable on organic grains. Co-sponsored by the Atlantic Canada Organic Regional Network and the P.E.I. Certified Organic Producers Cooperative, the session also featured Quebec dairy and grain farmer Archie Blankers. (read more)

SWN HALTING FRACKING PLANS A TURNING POINT FOR N.B. SHALE GAS
Source: GlobalNews.ca
A New Brunswick business leader says the past week has marked a turning point in the shale gas discourse in New Brunswick. Carol O’Reilly, CEO of the Greater Moncton Chamber of Commerce, told Global News Thursday she’s worried about what SWN Resources pulling its operations out of New Brunswick could mean for the business community. “When you lose someone like SWN, or it looks like we’ve lost them…certainly once someone leaves it can be more difficult to get them back,” she said. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

LARGE ANIMAL HEALTH PROGRAM UNIQUE IN ONT.
http://www.torontosun.com/2015/03/12/large-animal-health-program-unique-in-ont 

LEARN MORE ABOUT GLOBAL WARMING
http://www.stopglobalwarming.org/partners/thedailygreen/

BIRD FLU TRADE BANS ON U.S. POULTRY TO AFFECT PORK AND BEEF
http://www.themeatsite.com/meatnews/27073/bird-flu-trade-bans-on-us-poultry-to-affect-pork-and-beef/

CANADA BLOCKING POULTRY FROM KANSAS, ARKANSAS
http://www.agcanada.com/daily/canada-blocking-poultry-from-kansas-arkansas?hmpg-crs

March 13, 2015

MUSSEL PRODUCER GETS GOVERNMENT FUNDING . . . AT WHITE OAK PASTURES, GRASS-FED BEEF IS ONLY THE BEGINNING . . . NFU N.S. MEETINGS NEXT WEEK . . . FSC CANADA DISCUSSES INFORMED CONSENT WITH FIRST NATIONS AND INDUSTRY . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

MUSSEL PRODUCER GETS GOVERNMENT FUNDING
Source: The Chronicle Herald
A Prince Edward Island mussel processor is getting $940,000 in government funding to expand its operations. PEI Mussel King plans to buy new equipment to add a new production line, allowing it to offer new package sizes of fresh and frozen Island mussels. The federal government is offering a $470,000 repayable loan through the ACOA business development program, while the province is also lending $470,000 through Finance PEI. (read more)

AT WHITE OAK PASTURES, GRASS-FED BEEF IS ONLY THE BEGINNING
Source: New York Times
Here in the cab of a muddy pickup truck, with a stubby Ranch Hand rifle on the console and windows so fogged it’s hard to see the ruts in the pasture, you tend to believe anything the driver says. “We’re irreverent, profane, we talk too loud, we drink too much and we cheat to win,” William Harris III said. The line is part of the charm that has allowed a man whose family business was built on conventional, chemical-driven cattle rearing to become one of the most successful purveyors of grass-fed, humanely raised beef in the country. Harris, who lists both the writer Wendell Berry and the Confederate general Robert E. Lee as heroes, has been awarded just about every plaque and ribbon they hand out for agriculture and conservancy in Georgia. (read more)

NFU N.S. MEETINGS NEXT WEEK
Source: NFU
A while back, Av Singh sent out an email seeing if there was interest in discussing how a Nova Scotia farm organization can best support family farmers. In particular, whether there is a need/want for a farm organization like the NFU within our province. It was overwhelming how many people were extremely keen to have this conversation! March 16: Tatamagouche, 49 Alex Cox Rd. Waldegrave Farm 7-9 pm; March 17: Cape Breton, location to be confirmed 2-4 pm; March 18: Centre Burlington Hall 7-9 pm; March 19: Bridgetown, Centrelea Hall 2-4 pm; March 19: Wolfville, Just Us Centre for Small Farms 7-9 pm. (read more)

FSC CANADA DISCUSSES INFORMED CONSENT WITH FIRST NATIONS AND INDUSTRY
Source: Pulp & Paper Canada
More than 50 forest managers, technicians, academics, lawyers, industry representatives, and First Nations chiefs attended a meeting to discuss free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) in the context of the forest industry. Facilitated by FSC Canada, the gathering was also intended to enhance momentum and recognition of First Nations environmental, cultural, and economic stewardship of their homelands. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

HUBBARD FEEDS INC. COMMITS $50,000 TO NEW SWINE, COW-CALF EDUCATION AND RESEARCH FACILITIES AT SDSU
http://www.porknetwork.com/news/hubbard-feeds-inc-commits-50000-new-swine-cow-calf-education-and-research-facilities-sdsu?ss=news

BEFORE YOU BREED: COSTS AND CONSIDERATIONS
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/35450/before-you-breed-costs-and-considerations

RESOURCES FOR ORGANIC AGRICULTURE IN CANADA
http://www.dal.ca/faculty/agriculture/oacc/en-home/resources.html

UNDERSIZED SPUDS, BLEMISHED APPLES NOW SOLD BY LOBLAW AS “NATURALLY IMPERFECT”
http://www.thetelegram.com/Canada---World/Society/2015-03-12/article-4074836/Undersized-spuds%2C-blemished-apples-now-sold-by-Loblaw-as-Naturally-Imperfect/1

March 12, 2015

BEEF WEBSITE OFFERS INSIGHTS AND TIPS ON PAIN MITIGATION . . . INNOVATION PROGRAMS OPEN UNTIL APRIL 8 . . . FARMERS PUT DOWN THE PLOW FOR MORE PRODUCTIVE SOIL . . . SOME ORGANIC FOOD LABELS ARE A LITTLE FISHY . . . SUSTAINABLE SMALL FARM SUMMIT . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

BEEF WEBSITE OFFERS INSIGHTS AND TIPS ON PAIN MITIGATION
Source: Alberta Farmer Express
The Beef Cattle Research Council has updated the pain mitigation section of its website. The following is an edited version of that page, which also contains videos and links to further articles. Consumer pressure to avoid painful practices on cattle when possible – and to reduce pain when castration, dehorning, or branding are necessary – is building. (read more)

INNOVATION PROGRAMS OPEN UNTIL APRIL 8
Source: ThinkFarm
The 2015-16 Innovation Programs are now open. The Programs and Business Risk Management Division is currently accepting proposals for the following programs: Research Acceleration; Farm Innovation; Innovation and Commercialization of Agri-Products. April 8 is the deadline for these programs. (read more)

FARMERS PUT DOWN THE PLOW FOR MORE PRODUCTIVE SOIL
Source: The New York Times
Gabe Brown is in such demand as a speaker that for every invitation he accepts, he turns down 10 more. At conferences, like the one held at a Best Western hotel recently, people line up to seek his advice. “The greatest roadblock to solving a problem is the human mind,” he tells audiences. Brown is talking about farming, specifically soil-conservation farming, a movement that promotes leaving fields untilled, “green manures,” and other soil-enhancing methods with (read more)

SOME ORGANIC FOOD LABELS ARE A LITTLE FISHY
Source: NPR The USDA is looking at standards for organic farmed fish, but many organic and consumer groups are unhappy with the recommended guidelines because they don’t meet the strict standards of other organic foods. (read more)

SUSTAINABLE SMALL FARM SUMMIT
Source: Sustainable Small Farm Summit & BK Farmyards
This event is dedicated to new farmers starting their first farm; WWOOFers and apprentices transitioning to become Farm Managers; visionaries contemplating changing their career to farming; and families of farmers who want to understand the business more. Living off the land is not always easy. If you don’t have a mentor who knows the ropes, chances are you’ll make some costly mistakes. Join a group of extraordinary farmers and practitioners as they share their business expertise and how to avoid the most common pitfalls. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

FRACTURED FUTURE
http://www.cbc.ca/nb/features/fracturedfuture/

DIGITAL NEURECTOMY OUTCOME IN HORSES WITH CHRONIC FOOT PAIN
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/35457/digital-neurectomy-outcome-in-horses-with-chronic-foot-pain

STAND UP FOR DEMOCRACY
http://www.greenparty.ca/en/stand-up-for-democracy?utm_campaign=C15.DEB&utm_source=massmail&utm_medium=email

BEEF PRODUCERS STRONGLY SUPPORT CHECKOFF 
http://southwestfarmpress.com/livestock/beef-producers-strongly-support-checkoff

March 11, 2015

POLLINATION EXPANSION PROGRAM RENEWED . . . WHERE’S THE BEEF? . . . CLEARWATER DEBATING AQUACULTURE FOR INCLUSION IN NEXT STRATEGIC PLAN . . . BIOSECURITY INVESTMENTS PAY HUGE DIVIDENDS . . . SOUTH AFRICA GIVES BRAZIL BONELESS BEEF GREEN LIGHT . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

POLLINATION EXPANSION PROGRAM RENEWED 
Source: NSDA
The Department of Agriculture has extended a program to increase and support bee production in Nova Scotia. Agriculture Minister Keith Colwell and federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced the extension March 10. “Bees pollinate all of the crops in our province, such as blueberry, apple and cranberry,” said Mr. Colwell. “When we invest in bee production, we invest in every aspect of our agricultural industry.” The Pollination Expansion Program provides assistance to beekeepers to increase honeybee colony numbers by increasing or purchasing bees, queens, brood combs, frames, and equipment. (read more)

WHERE’S THE BEEF?
Source: The Aurora
Labrador isn’t known for its local cattle, but one Labrador City resident hopes to change that. Todd Cull sees open farmland in his future; 200 acres of cleared trees for cows to roam before moving to the slaughterhouse, providing meat for the area. (read more)

CLEARWATER DEBATING AQUACULTURE FOR INCLUSION IN NEXT STRATEGIC PLAN
Source: undercurrentnews
Canadian wild fish harvesting firm Clearwater Seafoods is set to consider aquaculture among the issues of importance it will lay out this year as it debates what to include in its next, 2016-2020, strategic plan, CEO Ian Smith told Undercurrent News recently. (read more)

BIOSECURITY INVESTMENTS PAY HUGE DIVIDENDS
Source: The Pig Site
The manager of producer services with the Saskatchewan Pork Development Board says investments in biosecurity have paid huge dividends, writes Bruce Cochrane. Under the Saskatchewan Swine Transport Biosecurity Program any Saskatchewan pork producer enrolled in the Canadian Quality Assurance Programme is eligible to receive up to C$300 to help offset the cost of a veterinary visit to the farm, and up to C$700 to have truck inspections done by a veterinarian or approved inspector. (read more)

SOUTH AFRICA GIVES BRAZIL BONELESS BEEF GREEN LIGHT
Source: just-food
South Africa is to reopen the import pipeline for boneless beef from Brazil. The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the measure will allow the normalization of bilateral trade in the product and will mean the lifting of embargoes imposed in 2005 and 2012 as a result of foot and mouth disease and a case of BSE in the country. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

SEVEN N.B. MAPLE SYRUP PROJECTS FUNDED
http://www.atlanticfarmfocus.ca/Forestry/2015-02-19/article-4049242/Seven-NB-maple-syrup-projects-funded/1

MARCH IS ACORN MEMBERSHIP MONTH!
http://www.acornorganic.org/

WORMS & GERMS
http://www.wormsandgermsblog.com/articles/animals/horses-1/?utm_source=Enews_Mar_2015&utm_campaign=March+Enews+2015&utm_medium=email

FIRST UK-FARMED TRUFFLE HARVESTED
http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-31826764

March 10, 2015

NORTHERN PULP TO GO AHEAD WITH PERMIT APPEAL . . . INVESTIGATION BROADENS IN BSE CASE: CFIA . . . NUTRITION-RELATED PROBLEMS: ALSIKE CLOVER POISONING . . . DONCAST PROVING TO BE VALUABLE TOOL FOR ONTARIO WHEAT GROWERS . . . FIGHTING THE COLORADO POTATO BEETLE WITH RNA . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

NORTHERN PULP TO GO AHEAD WITH PERMIT APPEAL
Source: The Chronicle Herald
The Environment Department on Monday issued an amended operating licence approval for Northern Pulp Nova Scotia Corp. But the Pictou County mill is not likely to amend its intention to appeal the province’s industrial approval. “We are still working on our appeal because we believe the document is flawed and it will hamper our business long term,” mill general manager Bruce Chapman said late Monday afternoon. (read more)

INVESTIGATION BROADENS IN BSE CASE: CFIA
Source: Meat+Poultry
Canadian trade officials are in contact with Chinese officials following that country’s announcement of temporary trade restrictions on imports of Canadian beef. Meanwhile, agriculture officials have expanded their traceback investigation. (read more)

NUTRITION-RELATED PROBLEMS: ALSIKE CLOVER POISONING
Source: The Horse
We are what we eat! This hits home when we examine the broad range of diseases and disorders linked to nutrition. Some conditions are caused by nutritional imbalances; others have their root cause elsewhere but can be addressed with specialized nutrition. (read more)

DONCAST PROVING TO BE VALUABLE TOOL FOR ONTARIO WHEAT GROWERS
Source: Island Farmer
Ask any wheat grower about the biggest threat to the quality of their crop, and they are likely to say the threat of mycotoxins. The biggest threat lies with deoxynivalenol, more commonly known as DON. It can surface in wheat or barley infected by Fusarium Head Blight. The presence of Fusarium Head Blight, which is usually the result of wet weather during the flowering and grain filling stages of plant growth, does not automatically mean that DON is present, but one of the telltale signs is a high level of scabby kernels in harvested grain. (read more)

FIGHTING THE COLORADO POTATO BEETLE WITH RNA
Source: PotatoPro.com
Colorado potato beetles are a dreaded pest of potatoes all over the world. Since they do not have natural enemies in most potato producing regions, farmers try to control them with pesticides.  However, this strategy is often ineffective because the pest has developed resistances against nearly all insecticides. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

WEED MANAGEMENT IN HORTICULTURE WEBINAR
http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/newslett.nsf/all/cotl23419

DEER MANAGEMENT 101
https://files.ctctcdn.com/53969a00101/67c90cc3-d562-4b10-b873-30a77f7b2f4c.pdf

POINT LEPREAU GENERATING STATION UPDATE
http://www.sackvilletribunepost.com/News-9443/Regional/2015-03-06/article-4067967/Point-Lepreau-Generating-Station-update/1

FDA TESTS TURN UP DAIRY FARMERS BREAKING THE LAW ON ANTIBIOTICS
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2015/03/08/391248045/fda-tests-turn-up-dairy-farmers-breaking-the-law-on-antibiotics

March 9, 2015

MERSEY FORUM PUBLIC TALK SERIES: DEVELOPING SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE IN NOVA SCOTIA . . . SOCIAL MEDIA FOR AGRICULTURE IN ANTIGONISH . . . POLLINATORS IN DECLINE AROUND THE WORLD . . . A&W EXECUTIVE WALKS INTO LION’S DEN . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

Dairy cows die in barn collapse
By Brion RobinsonVideo Journalist Global News

SUSSEX, N.B. - A Sussex farmer is continuing to assess the damage following a massive barn collapse Wednesday morning that killed 27 cows. Robin Manning of Manning Farms said he figures the cost of the damages from the roof collapse will reach around $250,000. "The whole roof had landed completely on both herds because it was shortly after feeding time so the bulk of the herd was underneath this barn eating," he said, standing outside the rubble. (read more)

MERSEY FORUM PUBLIC TALK SERIES: DEVELOPING SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE IN NOVA SCOTIA 
Source: The Maritimes Energy Association
The second of the Mersey Forum public talk series will be held in Liverpool at the Best Western Hotel on March 10 at 7pm with speaker Jon Grant, the NSERC-Cooke Industrial Research Chair in Sustainable Aquaculture and Professor of Oceanography at Dalhousie University. In this talk, Dr. Grant will discuss how Marine Spatial Planning can apply to fish farms in coastal ecosystems and be used to make the most of the coastal ecosystem in a sustainable way. (read more)

SOCIAL MEDIA FOR AGRICULTURE IN ANTIGONISH 
Source: NSFA
This 40 hour course will allow agriculture operators and managers to improve their knowledge in social media marketing and online identity skills. The course can provide basic information on social media marketing development, how to take control of social media decisions, and how to maximize a plan for reaching your social media goals. In addition, participants will be exposed to the latest social media trends. (read more)

POLLINATORS IN DECLINE AROUND THE WORLD
Source: BBC
Around the world, animals that pollinate flowering plants are in decline. An increasing number of pollinating mammal and bird species are moving towards extinction, according to the first study of its kind. Other, so far unpublished studies, also suggest that pollinating insect species are also heading towards extinction. (read more)

A&W EXECUTIVE WALKS INTO LION’S DEN 
Source: Ontario Farmer
Trish Sahlstrom, vice-president of purchasing and distribution for A&W, walked into the lion’s den of farmers attending the annual meeting of Manitoba Beef Producers this week, defending the chain’s decision to reject beef raised with the help of antibiotics, steroids, and hormones. “In recent years the beef industry has been inundated with bad-news stories and we find consumers reluctant to choose beef,” she told the farmers, (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

CFIA SAYS NO RISK TO PUBLIC OF MAD COW DISEASE DESPITE INFECTED CATTLE
http://thechronicleherald.ca/canada/1273396-canadian-food-inspection-agency-says-no-risk-to-public-of-mad-cow-disease-despite-inf

MCDONALD’S TO SERVE CHICKEN RAISED WITHOUT HUMAN ANTIBIOTICS, MILK NOT TREATED WITH HORMONE
http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/arts-and-life/food/mcdonalds-to-use-chicken-without-human-antibiotics-milk-from-cows-not-treated-with-hormone-295000771.html

PROPER HAND HYGIENE PREVENTS EQUINE DISEASE
http://www.thehorse.com/articles/35443/proper-hand-hygiene-prevents-equine-disease

SHOULD LABELS SAY MEAT WAS MADE IN USA? RANCHERS, MEATPACKERS DISAGREE
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2015/03/06/391254128/should-labels-say-meat-was-made-in-usa-ranchers-meatpackers-disagree

March 6, 2015

POTASH CORP. GAINS BRAZILIAN MARKET . . . EASTER BEEF SHOW PLANNED FOR MARCH 12 AND 13 . . . ORGANIC PRODUCERS: PLEASE FILL OUT THE ATLANTIC ORGANIC PRODUCTION SURVEY! . . . CORN/SMALL GRAINS SOYBEAN AND FORAGE GROWER PRODUCTION . . . REMINDER: “THE END OF WINTER” WOODLOT FIELD DAY AND SUGAR BUSH TOUR . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

POTASH CORP. GAINS BRAZILIAN MARKET
Source: Ontario Farmer
Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan has signed an agreement to buy a 9.5 percent stake in Brazil-based Fertilizantes Heringer S.A. for $55.7 million US. The deal secures a million-tonnes-a-year market for potash mined in New Brunswick, and is expected to close in the second half of 2015. (read more)

EASTER BEEF SHOW PLANNED FOR MARCH 12 AND 13
Source: Island Farmer
The 2015 edition of the P.E.I. Easter Beef Show and Sale will be held March 12 and 13 at the Charlottetown Civic Centre. On Tuesday afternoon, all exhibitors are asked to assist with stall assembly and cattle will begin arriving at the Charlottetown facility Wednesday at 8 am.  (read more)

ORGANIC PRODUCERS: PLEASE FILL OUT THE ATLANTIC ORGANIC PRODUCTION SURVEY!
Source: ACORN
Attention all certified organic/in-transition producers andprocessors! Help ACORN contribute to the successful growth and development of the Atlantic organic sector by completing the Atlantic Organic Production Survey!! This survey will examine levels of production of certified organic/in-transition producers and processors for 2014, as well as market, distribution, and training needs for organic producers and processors. (read more)

CORN/SMALL GRAINS SOYBEAN AND FORAGE GROWER PRODUCTION MEETING
Source: NSFA This meeting, sponsored by Cavendish Agri Services, will be held on Wednesday, March 18, and will take place at St. Bridget’s Church Hall, Shubenacadie. (read more)

REMINDER: “THE END OF WINTER” WOODLOT FIELD DAY AND SUGAR BUSH TOUR
Source: FNSWO
Nova Scotia forest landowners are invited to attend a Woodlot Management field day, from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday March 7 at Pat and Janet O’Toole’s woodlot in Carroll’s Corner, Halifax County. Registration for this event is required. For more information, or to reserve a place, please contact the Federation of Nova Scotia Woodland Owners and John MacDougall at 902-639-2041 or email john@fnswo.ca. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

PREPARING MARES & STALLIONS FOR BREEDING
http://www.equineguelph.ca/research/radio.php?utm_source=Enews_Mar_2015&utm_campaign=March+Enews+2015&utm_medium=email

BUYER WILL FUND GROWTH OF PAPERNUTS’ INNOVATIVE LOOSE FILL PACKAGING
http://www.pulpandpapercanada.com/news/buyer-will-fund-growth-of-papernuts-innovative-loose-fill-packaging/1003506247/438qvsM3oyW6x08yM2vx/?ref=enews_PP&utm_source=PP&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PP-EN03042015

CANADA’S CATTLE MARKET – WHAT TO WATCH
https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/ag-knowledge/marketing/canadas-cattle-market-what-to-watch.html

DON’T FORGET TO SPRING FORWARD SUNDAY, MARCH 8
http://novascotia.ca/news/release/?id=20150305001

March 5, 2015

NEW THREATS TO WILD BEES IDENTIFIED . . . MCDONALD’S MOVING TO LIMIT ANTIBIOTICS IN ITS CHICKEN . . . SMALL AREAS CAN THRIVE WITH FOCUSED BUSINESS . . . “DOING OUR OWN THING” . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

“SEE YOU AT THE FARM SHOW”
Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
You’ll hear that often this week, and after what we have been through this winter – snowed-in and company-starved – I’m ready to predict the largest turn-out ever for the best trade show in Atlantic Canada. “Gateway to Farm Innovation,” is the theme chosen for this year’s biennial show at the Moncton Coliseum where Show Manager Frank Reade and more than 160 exhibitors will be welcoming visitors Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (March 5, 6, 7). 
For the few who may not be familiar with the Atlantic Farm Mechanization Show, a couple of words of introduction: It’s every two years so there’s lots new to see. It’s all to do with farming. You won’t find exhibitors flogging dinnerware and veggie-slicers. It’s not for profit, and is run by a volunteer board of directors chaired by Brian Beaton. It operates in the black and dispenses thousands of dollars in scholarships annually to post-secondary students in agriculture and environmental engineering programs. There is a community and even family feel about the Farm Show. It is the one place where every couple of years it’s possible to see and compare equipment and services all under one roof, and talk to company reps, and meet up with friends not seen since, well, the last Farm Show. It is a fun and informative family affair.  And one fantastic break-out after a winter buried in snow and cold.
“See you at the Farm Show.” DvL

(Thanks to Show Director Chuck Everett for providing photos seen here.)

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NEW THREATS TO WILD BEES IDENTIFIED
Source: BBC Wild bumblebees are infected with many of the diseases found in honeybees looked after by beekeepers, according to a national survey. With wild bees already under threat from habitat loss and pesticides, diseases could have a profound impact on populations, say scientists.
In Britain, bumblebee species are declining, and two have become extinct. Conservation groups are calling for tougher regulations on importing bees for commercial use. (read more)

MCDONALD’S MOVING TO LIMIT ANTIBIOTICS IN ITS CHICKEN
Source: New York Times McDonald’s said on Wednesday that it would begin using chicken from birds that are not raised with antibiotics used to treat humans. Because the struggling fast-food chain is one of the largest buyers of chicken in the United States – McDonald’s sells more chicken than beef – the move is likely to have a major impact on the way poultry is raised and the kind of chicken served by restaurants. (read more)

SMALL AREAS CAN THRIVE WITH FOCUSED BUSINESS
Source: The Chronicle Herald
Rural communities in Atlantic Canada can thrive by using small-scale, practical projects to boost their economies, say the cofounders of a new economic development group. The Centre for Local Prosperity was formed last year in Annapolis County with the aim of bringing together politicians, municipal staffers and business leaders from around the region to look at innovative ways of boosting rural economies. (read more)

“DOING OUR OWN THING”
Source: Wire Service
Opening this Saturday, March 7 at the Confederation Centre Art Gallery is a new exhibition looking at the utopian imagination of this movement. Doing Our Own Thing: Back-to-the-land in Eastern Canada During the 1970’s considers both the movement’s ambitions and its failures, to see what we might recuperate from this history 40 years on. The exhibition is co-presented by the Centre and Cape Breton University Art Gallery and is co-curated by Pan Wendt and Amish Morrell. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

FACILITIES AND HOUSING: PART ONE
http://www.equineguelph.ca/pdf/tools/codeofpractice/COP_Facilities_Housing_Pt_1_Mar_2015.pdf?utm_source=Enews_Mar_2015&utm_campaign=March+Enews+2015&utm_medium=email

FPINNOVATIONS RECEIVES $20 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING
http://www.pulpandpapercanada.com/news/fpinnovations-receives-20-million-in-federal-funding/1003506837/438qvsM3oyW6x08yM2vx/?ref=enews_PP&utm_source=PP&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PP-EN03042015

DOCUMENTARY FILM SCREENING: THE FAMILY FARM
http://www.waldorfns.org/2015/02/the-south-shore-waldorf-school-announces-3d-film-screening-series/ 

42ND ANNUAL TEST STATION BREEDING STOCK SALE
http://nscattle.ca/industry-news/

March 4, 2015

THE NON-GMO DAIRY REVOLUTION . . . ANTIGONISH LIMESTONE TO HAVE NEW ACCESS . . . KING’S CHOICE . . . PESTICIDE APPLICATOR’S CERTIFICATION . . . SCIENTISTS PRODUCE TB-RESISTANT COWS . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

THE NON-GMO DAIRY REVOLUTION
Source: ACORN
Snowville Creamery, based in Pomeroy, Ohio, is a small dairy operation, but its owner, Warren Taylor, has big ideas. Taylor wants to change the food system – from one based on factory farms and GMOs to one based on local, sustainable, non-GMO, and organic farms and foods. He is starting with his own operation. Taylor is a career dairyman; he followed in his father’s footsteps and became a dairy process engineer. In his 40-plus-year career, Taylor designed processing plants and systems for companies such as Safeway, Dannon, Land O’ Lakes, and Yoplait. Cut him and Taylor says he will “bleed white.” (read more)

ANTIGONISH LIMESTONE TO HAVE NEW ACCESS
Source: The Chronicle Herald
Bernie Landry continues to be employed. “It’s just the two of us here," the manager of the two-man workforce at Antigonish Limestone Ltd. said Monday. The province recently approved a 20-year lease of 41.7 hectares of Crown land next to the firm’s existing Southside Antigonish Harbour quarry. For nearly 50 years, it has been quarrying limestone for use as an acid neutralizer on farms and at Northern Pulp in Pictou County, he said. The company’s 2.4 hectares have been exhausted and the access to Crown land will allow it to maintain production, he said. (read more)

KING’S CHOICE 
Source: Atlantic Beef & Sheep
Kings Mutual Insurance Company has chosen BLM Meats, a three-member beef marketing co-op in Pictou County, as its Producer of the Year. The award was presented at the Nova Scotia Cattle Producers annual general meeting in Truro Feb. 21. The three beef farmers pictured here with NSCP Chair Larry Weatherby holding the plaque are, left to right, David Lavers, Auchencairn Farm in Rockfield; Blair Battist, Lochview Farm, Lyons Brook; and Danny MacDonald of Little Dan-D Farms, Mt. Thom. The three family farms raise hormone and antibiotic-free beef that’s killed, aged two weeks, and butchered at a provincially licensed abattoirs. The cuts – ground beef, grilling steaks, roasts, stew meat, soup bones, etc. are sold at the New Glasgow Farmers’ Market throughout the market season, Saturdays nine to noon in the market’s parking lot throughout the rest of the year, as well as from each of the farms. 

(Laurence Lavers photo)

PESTICIDE APPLICATOR’S CERTIFICATION
Source: Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture
This course is delivered at the Agricultural Campus, in Bible Hill, N.S., Monday through Thursday, April 13-16. Application deadline: Monday, March 23. This four-day course is excellent preparation if you are writing the Pesticide Applicator’s Examination. You will learn the basic principles and practices of safe use, handling, and storage of pesticides. (read more)

SCIENTISTS PRODUCE TB-RESISTANT COWS
Source: BBC
Scientists in China have produced a herd of genetically engineered cows that are better able to ward off bovine TB infection. The long-term goal of the research is to avoid the need to cull livestock by breeding disease resistant cattle. Bovine TB is a risk in many areas, including New Zealand, England, Wales, and parts of Africa and Asia.  In the UK more than 26,000 cattle were slaughtered in 2013 at a cost to taxpayers of £100m.  (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

COLCHESTER COUNTY SILAGE PLASTIC RECYCLING PILOT PROJECT
http://nssheep.ca/2015/03/03/colchester-county-silage-plastic-recycling-pilot-project/

SUPER-CHILLED OCEAN WATER SUSPECTED IN SALMON DEATHS AT NOVA SCOTIA FISH FARMS
http://www.thetelegram.com/Canada---World/Business/2015-03-03/article-4064229/Super-chilled-ocean-water-suspected-in-salmon-deaths-at-Nova-Scotia-fish-farms/1

CALL FOR BIRD FLU ALERT SYSTEM FOR BACKYARD POULTRY OWNERS
http://www.thepoultrysite.com/poultrynews/34511/call-for-bird-flu-alert-system-for-backyard-poultry-owners/

STROLLING OF THE HEIFERS WEEKEND: JUNE 5, 6 AND 7
http://www.strollingoftheheifers.com/our-parade-and-weekend/

March 3, 2015

TALKING TURKEY, NOT . . . NORTHERN PULP “DISAPPOINTED” POLLUTION PROJECT SUPPLIER PULLS OUT . . . CANADIAN AGRICULTURE LITERACY WEEK . . . P.E.I. COPC AGM . . . THE BULL SALE IS ON . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

N.S. Turkey Farmers change tune
Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
The Turkey Farmers of Nova Scotia (TFNS) has a new excuse for why it slammed the door February 23 on Nova Scotians turning to Larkin Brothers of Prince Edward Island as a source for “free range license holders and vendor” poults. (read more)

NORTHERN PULP “DISAPPOINTED” POLLUTION PROJECT SUPPLIER PULLS OUT
Source: CBC.ca
The U.S. company hired to supply and install new air pollution technology at Northern Pulp has abruptly pulled out of the $22 million project months before completing the job, CBC News has learned. Atlanta based Clyde Bergemann Power Group was hired in a $20 million turn key contract last year, but the company pulled out of the installation phase last Thursday says Northern Pulp operations manager Bruce Chapman. (read more)

CANADIAN AGRICULTURE LITERACY WEEK
Source: Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development
 “Canadian Agriculture Literacy Week is all about engaging students to help them connect with agriculture and really learn about its importance,” says Karen Carle, agriculture education consultant, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, Red Deer. “There’s a growing interest among Canadians to find out where their food comes from and this week is a great way to help teach children about farming.” March 1-7, is Canadian Agriculture Literacy Week.  (read more)

P.E.I. COPC AGM
Source: P.E.I. Certified Organic Producers Co-Operative
Attention members and associate members, your Board of Directors have decided that our annual meeting will be held at the farm center in Charlottetown on March 9 (storm date March 11) at 7pm (read more)

THE BULL SALE IS ON
Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
The bull and heifer sale at the Beef Test Station in Nappan, N.S., is still on for April 4 despite collapse of the feeder barn where traditionally bulls are assembled the day of the sale. According to Brad McCallum, general manager of the AgriCommodity Management Association (ACMA), only eight of 22 rafters snapped under the weight of snow, and those at the far end of the barn.
“It was very fortunate it was at the end of the barn and not the middle or near end,” McCallum said when contacted Monday. Clean up of the damaged portion of the barn was to begin Monday or Tuesday, after which the open end of the building will be framed and sheathed against the weather.
McCallum judged there will be 60 to 65 bulls on offer this year and 30 to 40 heifers. “There will be plenty of space for a hundred animals, although they may be divided differently (from earlier years).
Videos of the bulls on offer are to be taken March 16 or 17, with March 23 the target date for getting them on-line.  (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

WORKSHOP PLANNED ON LOCAL FOOD
http://www.peicanada.com/island_farmer/article_9460fd3e-c0f5-11e4-a189-1740ac78cc8b.html

YOUR GRANDPARENTS SPENT MORE OF THEIR MONEY ON FOOD THAN YOU DO
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2015/03/02/389578089/your-grandparents-spent-more-of-their-money-on-food-than-you-do

COOKE CONUNDRUM SPLITS SHELBURNE
http://halifaxchronicle.can.newsmemory.com/?token=%2brV5QjVLTXCGpQrrxDzTnA%3d%3d

CANADIAN PORK PRODUCERS SUPPORT RETALIATORY TARIFFS ON US IMPORTS OVER M-COOL 
http://www.themeatsite.com/meatnews/26963/canadian-pork-producers-support-retaliatory-tariffs-on-us-imports-over-mcool/

March 2, 2015

TWO COWS WITH BSE BORN ON SAME ALBERTA FARM, SAYS CFIA . . . WINTER STORMS TAKE TOLL ON MARITIME FARMS . . . “SEE YOU AT THE FARM SHOW” . . . LOCAL COUPLE IN THE RUNNING FOR ATLANTIC YOUNG FARMER AWARD . . . NOVA SCOTIA 4-H COUNCIL ANNOUNCES NATIONAL YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

TWO COWS WITH BSE BORN ON SAME ALBERTA FARM, SAYS CFIA
Source: Global News
Canada’s food safety organization says two cows discovered to have Mad cow disease in the last five years were born on the same Alberta farm. Paul Mayers of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency said the most recent case detected earlier this month involves a cow born in 2009. Another cow born on the same farm in 2004 tested positive for the disease in 2010, Mayers said. No parts of the cows got into human or animal food, the agency has said. (read more)

WINTER STORMS TAKE TOLL ON MARITIME FARMS 
Source: FCC
Repeated storms have hit the Maritimes with record snowfall amounts, heavy winds, and frigid temperatures this month and it’s taking a toll on the region’s dairy producers. Several farmers in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia reported dumping milk when road conditions made it impossible for bulk milk haulers to collect their milk. Blizzard conditions on Feb. 15 made it particularly challenging for bulk milk haulers to get to the 100-plus farms in New Brunswick and the province’s three main processing plants. Steve Michaud, manager of the Dairy Farmers of New Brunswick, says preliminary estimates were that six farms didn’t have enough storage capacity and were forced to dump one or two milkings. (read more)

“SEE YOU AT THE FARM SHOW”
Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
You’ll hear that often this week, and after what we have been through this winter – snowed-in and company-starved – I’m ready to predict the largest turn-out ever for the best trade show in Atlantic Canada. (read more)

LOCAL COUPLE IN THE RUNNING FOR ATLANTIC YOUNG FARMER AWARD
Source: The Western Star
David and Sara Simmons, of Pure Holsteins in Little Rapids, NL, are in the running to be named the 2015 Outstanding Atlantic Region Outstanding Young Farmer. The Simmons, who operate a 100-cow dairy operation, are up against New Brunswick couple Matthew and Karen Guest. The Guests operate Top of the Morning Farm Ltd. and Guest Farms Ltd. in Holmesville. (read more)

NOVA SCOTIA 4-H COUNCIL ANNOUNCES NATIONAL YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE
Source: NSFA A Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) was established within 4-H Canada in 2005. The YAC is the national voice for 4-H Canada, this provides leadership opportunities for outstanding, engaged young people from across the country who have been active in 4-H at the club level and want to continue to play a role and contribute as young adults. A competition is held in every province across Canada, the YAC bring a vital youth perspective to national programs, activities, and events.  (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

EQUINE NAVICULAR SYNDROME
http://www.thehorse.com/free-reports/29981/equine-navicular-syndrome

IF OPPOSED TO SUNDAY HUNTING, SPEAK UP
http://thechronicleherald.ca/editorials/1271525-editorial-if-opposed-to-sunday-hunting-speak-up

ITALIAN CHEESE LOVERS FIND THEIR BOVINE MATCH THROUGH 'ADOPT A COW'
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2015/03/01/389574335/italian-cheese-lovers-find-their-bovine-match-through-adopt-a-cow

SAFE AND EFFICIENT USE OF PESTICIDES WORKSHOP
http://www.farmsafetyns.ca

February 27, 2015

N.S. TURKEY BOARD STRIKES AGAIN . . .WINTER STORMS FORCE SOME DAIRY FARMERS TO TAKE DRASTIC MEASURES . . . A PRICE TAG ON CARBON AS A CLIMATE RESCUE PLAN . . . DAIRY FARMERS OF N.S. REGIONAL MEETINGS . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

(John Duynisveld photo)

Test Station barn collapsed
Bulls are okay
The long narrow barn at the Maritime Beef Test Station in Nappan, N.S., where bulls are penned prior to the annual sale (this year scheduled for April 4) came down under heavy snow early the week of Feb. 23. No bulls or heifers were in the building at the time. It's reported that the Test Station's tractor and TMR mixer were parked in the barn but by good fortune were not damaged, although it took a good deal of effort to pull them from the wreckage. Manager Kenny Thompson was not immediately available for comment or further information. 

N.S. TURKEY BOARD STRIKES AGAIN Source: AtlanticFarmer.com In another move, seen by many as the Nova Scotia Turkey Marketing Board’s effort to wipe out small growers in the province, Larkin Brothers of Prince Edward Island has been informed it may no longer serve a market that’s taken as many as 12,000 poults a year from their farm in Hunter River (read more)

WINTER STORMS FORCE SOME DAIRY FARMERS TO TAKE DRASTIC MEASURES
Source: West Prince Graphic
West Devon dairy farmer, Harold MacNevin, considers himself one of the lucky ones who didn’t have to dump his day’s supply of milk after the recent winter snowstorms that blasted across the Island. However, MacNevin has heard there were as many as two West Prince farmers who weren’t so lucky. MacNevin’s milk was picked up the Wednesday following the storm. “I still had room in my holding tank because I am down on production so that wasn’t really an issue for me,” said MacNevin, dairy farmer and chairman for the Dairy Farmers of P.E.I. “Most of the farmers that had to dump milk because their capacity in their tanks ran out and they just didn’t have enough room.” (read more)

A PRICE TAG ON CARBON AS A CLIMATE RESCUE PLAN
Source: New York Times
Bryan T. Pagel, a dairy farmer, watched as a glistening slurry of cow manure disappeared down a culvert. If recycling the waste on his family’s farm would help to save the world, he was happy to go along. Out back, machinery was breaking down the manure and capturing a byproduct called methane, a potent greenhouse gas. A huge Caterpillar engine roared as it burned the methane to generate electricity, keeping it out of the atmosphere. (read more)

DAIRY FARMERS OF N.S. REGIONAL MEETINGS 
Source: DFNS The DFNS Board is seeking your input on a P5 pool-wide review of quota policies.  This will happen at a series of three Regional Meetings, along with other issue updates, Milk Committee elections, and open microphone time. A formal invitation and background documents will be mailed in early March. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

IRVING AIMS TO OPEN GOLD AND COPPER MINE IN MAINE
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/irving-aims-to-open-gold-and-copper-mine-in-maine-1.2974782

GOOD NEWS: MORE CROPS! BAD NEWS: MORE PLAGUE!
http://www.npr.org/blogs/goatsandsoda/2015/02/23/387772236/good-news-more-crops-bad-news-more-plague

EGG FARMERS OF NOVA SCOTIA ANNUAL MEETING, MARCH 3
https://www.google.ca/?gws_rd=ssl#q=Egg+Farmers+of+Nova+Scotia%2C+Annual+Meeting%2C+March+3

CHICKEN PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION OF NOVA SCOTIA ANNUAL MEETING, MARCH 4 
http://nsfa-fane.ca/calendarevent/chicken-producers-association-of-nova-scotia-annual-meeting/

February 26, 2015

MORE BARNS DOWN . . . ATLANTIC PACKAGING WORKERS ACCEPT NEW CONTRACT . . . GETTING YOUR MESSAGE ACROSS – SAFE AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES WORKSHOP . . . NEW CANADIAN GELBVIEH CEO . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

MORE BARNS DOWN 
Source: AtlanticFarmer.com
Nova Scotia’s South Shore continues to chalk up barn roof collapses, the latest report from Jim Slauenwhite from Middlewood, Lunenburg County, who was in his main barn Sunday tending cattle when he heard a snap. “Then another.” Followed shortly by a crash when snow brought down the newer-built end of a truss-supported roof of his 104 by 40-foot main barn. Fortunately, Slauenwhite had time to get his larger, newer, more valuable tractor out of the way, while seven expectant cows scooted for safety out the other end into belly-deep snow. A second tractor trapped in the barn “looks like it might be okay.” Earlier, friends had pitched in with Slauenwhite shoveling snow from other barns thought to be more threatened than the 4/12 pitched-roof barn with steel roofing. Now it’s down, “but what a mess.”

ATLANTIC PACKAGING WORKERS ACCEPT NEW CONTRACT
Source: Pulp & Paper Canada 
Unifor members at Atlantic Packaging have voted overwhelmingly in favor of a new collective agreement that will bring increases in wages and benefits, the union states. The new agreement will see include increases of two percent in each year of the contract that are retroactive to October 15, 2014, when the last agreement expired. (read more)

GETTING YOUR MESSAGE ACROSS – SAFE AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES WORKSHOP
 Source: FSNS
In celebration of Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, Farm Safety Nova Scotia and the Canadian Farmers with Disabilities Registry are partnering to offer a one-day workshop “Getting Your Message Across” – a train-the-trainer workshop on safe agricultural practices. This training is geared toward anyone involved in the agricultural industry that is required to communicate safe farm practices to youth, agricultural workers, volunteers, and the general public. The workshop will provide training on best practices to communicate the message of agricultural safety, focusing on how people learn and what motivates them, and will provide an overview of the basics of safety. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, March 18 at the Best Western Glengarry, Truro, NS from 9am - 4pm. No cost, lunch will be provided. RSVP by March 13 is required. (read more)

NEW CANADIAN GELBVIEH CEO
Source: Atlantic Farmer.com
The Canadian Gelbvieh Association is pleased to announce the appointment of Gaylene Groeneveld as the Chief Executive Officer of the association. Ms. Groeneveld took over the reins with the passing of Wendy Belcher in January…..(read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

GENTLE BODYWORK TO RESOLVE PAIN AND RESTORE HEALTH IN DOGS AND HORSES
http://westmarincitizen.com/columns/health/gentle-bodywork-resolve-pain-restore-health/

DOMESTIC AG STRENGTH FORECASTED
https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/ag-knowledge/publications/fcc-express/fcc-express-archives/20150220.html?anchor=story1&utm_source=Subscribe+to+FCC+Email&utm_campaign=cda8458d7a-Express_February_20_2015_EN05_20-_2015&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ecca3657d7-cda8458d7a-18200761

WTO HEARS U.S. APPEAL IN COUNTRY OF ORIGIN LABELLING DISPUTE
http://www.farmscape.ca/f2ShowScript.aspx?i=24891&q=WTO+Hears+U.S.+Appeal+in+Country+of+Origin+Labelling+Dispute&utm_source=Subscribe+to+FCC+Email&utm_campaign=cda8458d7a-Express_February_20_2015_EN05_20-_2015&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ecca3657d7-cda8458d7a-18200761

U.S. SEA LEVEL NORTH OF NEW YORK CITY “JUMPED BY 128MM”
http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-31604953

February 25, 2015

MODERN BEEKEEPER . . . CANADIAN APPLE GROWERS RAISE CONCERNS OVER GENETICALLY ENGINEERED VARIETIES . . . RESEARCH SUGGESTS GREEN CRAB IS RISKY BAIT FOR LOBSTER INDUSTRY . . . NOVA SCOTIA NOT DOING ENOUGH FOR SPECIES AT RISK, GROUP SAYS IN REPORT . . . OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST...

MODERN BEEKEEPER 
Source: NSFA
The only course of its kind in the Atlantic region, The Modern Beekeeper is a course that offers new and experienced beekeepers hands-on production skills and beekeeping knowledge timed specifically to the annual beekeeping cycle. Join the participants in the class and the field! Guided by a team of experts, you will gain valuable skills, information and industry contacts and will experience firsthand, the skills needed to be successful beekeepers. (read more)

CANADIAN APPLE GROWERS RAISE CONCERNS OVER GENETICALLY ENGINEERED VARIETIES
Source: Better Farming
Canadian apple growers are worried a genetically engineered apple from British Columbia that won’t turn brown when it’s cut open will make consumers think twice about the old adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” The U.S. Department of Agriculture last week approved two genetically engineered apple varieties designed to resist browning developed by Okanagan Specialty Fruits. (read more)

RESEARCH SUGGESTS GREEN CRAB IS RISKY BAIT FOR LOBSTER INDUSTRY
Source: Phys.org
Recent research conducted by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Agriculture indicates a high prevalence of a Green crab pathogen now being found in lobsters in some Atlantic Canadian locations. The pathogen, a primary pathogen of Green crab, correlates with increased use of Green crabs as lobster bait over the last several years. (read more)

NOVA SCOTIA NOT DOING ENOUGH FOR SPECIES AT RISK, GROUP SAYS IN REPORT
Source; The Chronicle Herald
Nova Scotia’s Natural Resources Department is not doing enough to protect mainland moose and other species at risk in the province, a local environmental law group says. In a report released last week, the East Coast Environmental Law Association and the Environmental Law Students’ Society at Dalhousie University’s Schulich School of Law in Halifax, allege the department has not fulfilled its legal obligations under the Endangered Species Act with respect to 20 of Nova Scotia’s 37 endangered or threatened species. “Nova Scotia’s mainland moose, listed as endangered in 2003, is an example of a species possibly threatened by the province’s shortcomings under the Act,” the 11 page-report, “Protected on Paper Only,” said. (read more)

OTHER NEWS OF INTEREST

NEW REPORT COULD HIT U.S. MEAT AND GRAIN INDUSTRIES HARD
http://www.sciencedaily.com/videos/fc684f5b2a99e3fba84ca817c48073e3.htm

THE OUTLOOK FOR RENEWABLE FUELS: THE TOP 10 ISSUES FOR 2015
http://www.biofuelsdigest.com/bdigest/2015/02/12/the-outlook-for-renewable-fuels-the-top-10-issues-for-2015/

SMALL GROUP GATHERS TO TALK ABOUT PESTICIDE FREE P.E.I.
http://www.peicanada.com/eastern_graphic/article_6143e5b2-ba36-11e4-ae93-032e3a5ed721.html

OFF THE WATER GRID: ENERGY EFFICIENT AND SUSTAINABLE 
http://www.nsf.gov/news/special_reports/science_nation/netzerodorm.jsp