The advent of a global pandemic certainly added volume to the narrative that local equals resilient when it comes to economies, especially food-related economic systems. But Jayson Lusk, food and agricultural economist at Purdue University, says that evidence suggests otherwise, and that a vibrant trade economy actually adds resiliency to local economies. To demonstrate his... Read More
Category: Ag Policy
Canada's economy is recovering during the prolonged impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, albeit slowly. Ted Mallett, director of economic forecasting with the Conference Board of Canada, points to several positive signs and circumstances to the recovery. For one, the economy has grown this year, about five per cent, however there is ground to make up,... Read More
Throughout this past summer, Senator Rob Black spent time away from the Senate touring farms and agricultural facilities across Canada. The reasoning? To learn more about agriculture's work, industry concerns, pandemic challenges, and opportunities for the future, as Senator Black has a focus on agriculture and agri-food, rural spaces, and youth in the Senate. "If... Read More
The Canadian government is counting on a 30 per cent reduction in emissions from nitrogen fertilizer by 2030 to reach its international climate change commitments, but unless there are changes to the way emissions are calculated, it appears farming practices that are proven to reduce emissions from fertilizer would not be counted toward meeting the... Read More
Fertilizer Canada has released details of a report, compiled by Meyers Norris Penny (MNP), that aims to outline the significant impact a regulated reduction in nitrogen fertilizer use would have on farmers' bottom lines. The Government of Canada has announced an "aspirational" goal of 30 per cent absolute emissions reduction target for on-farm fertilizer use... Read More
There are no indications China will be lifting restrictions on Canadian canola imports as a direct response to the exchange of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou for Canadians' Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig, according to the president of the Canola Council of Canada. The two Michaels returned to Canada on Friday following a deal negotiated by... Read More
Now that the 2021 election is complete and we know who will be returning to Ottawa once Parliament resumes, the focus shifts to cabinet appointments and the upcoming throne speech. As of Friday, Prime Minister-elect Justin Trudeau has not yet held a post-election press conference, saying he wants to wait until all the votes have... Read More
While it's possible roles and responsibilities will be shuffled around, nearly all of the familiar faces when it comes to agriculture policy in Ottawa were re-elected on Monday. Agriculture minister re-elected Incumbent Liberal Agriculture Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau was re-elected in her riding of Compton-Stanstead in the Eastern Townships of Quebec, defeating the Bloc challenger by... Read More
It wouldn't be fair to have an election without an episode of RealAg Politics! The election campaign has been a speedy whirlwind, and co-hosts Shaun Haney and Kelvin Heppner are here to break it down for you — specifically from the agriculture perspective. SUMMARY The PPC has really gained some traction. Many are comparing them... Read More
I am going to tell you a story. It's a story that probably will leave your mouth agape and thinking, "People wouldn't actually do that, would they?" But I assure you, this story is true. Last Wednesday, our employee at our second solar grazing site (about 1.25 hour drive from the home farm) texted to... Read More