Several producer groups are coming together to ensure farmers have input into the implementation of Canada's proposed new seed royalty system. The so-called value creation discussion has quickly become a hot-button issue now that farmers are realizing only two options are being brought forward, and that there is a lot of money involved. SaskWheat, for... Read More
Category: Ag Policy
The Canadian Sheep Federation and the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA) recently reached an agreement outlining the roles and responsibilities of each group in delivery of the Canadian Sheep Identification Program (CSIP). As part of the agreement, the per tag fee of $0.23 currently collected to fund the program will increase to $0.59/tag by the... Read More
After thorough scientific review, Health Canada has announced its decision from the 2017 re-evaluation of glyphosate, which renewed the herbicide's registration, will remain in place. The decision notes glyphosate is not genotoxic and is unlikely to pose a human cancer risk. This comes after eight notices of objection and concerns raised by the public about... Read More
In the coming months, Health Canada is expected to release the newest version of Canada's Food Guide. This is the first update since 2007, and the proposed changes are not without controversy. First looks at the new guide suggests a significant shift away from meat and dairy and increased focus on plant-based protein. "This has... Read More
The number of certified crop advisors (CCAs) in Ontario topped the 600 mark in 2017 and agronomist ranks in the province just keep on growing. At the Ontario Certified Crop Advisor Association annual meeting this week, outgoing CCA board chair Ken Currah reported that organization membership has now reached 655, with 102 more candidates registered... Read More
China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) has granted a safety certificate approval for the import and food/feed use of Bayer's TruFlex canola with Roundup Ready technology. According to a news release, MARA has notified Bayer that a safety certificate for TruFlex canola has been granted, and they're now awaiting final documentation which should... Read More
Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) has named Erin Gowriluk as its new executive director. Gowriluk will be based out of Ottawa, Ont. Gowriluk will run the day-to-day operations as well as managing advocacy and policy work. According to the GGC, Gowriluk has extensive knowledge in agriculture with a diverse background in agriculture policy. Her most... Read More
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has unveiled its GMO labeling law laying out the minimum labeling requirements for food companies and retailers set to go into effect at the start of 2020, with a mandatory compliance date set for the beginning of 2022. As part of the standard, the USDA has created a... Read More
The cost of CFIA-approved RFID sheep tags is going up over the next two years. Tag fees fund the Canadian Sheep Identification Program (CSIP), led by the Canadian Sheep Federation (CSF). RFID tags for sheep have been a requirement since 2004. CSF announced today the impending increase — and potentially increases — after a newly-ratified... Read More
Canada's Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister, Lawrence MacAulay is supporting the United Nations' proclamation of the International Year of Plant Health for 2020. In a news release, MacAulay says the federal government recognizes protecting Canada's plant resources is vital to food security and Canadians' wellbeing. "Plants are not only the first link in the food chain,... Read More