Canada is a very unique country, characterized as a vastly unpopulated nation that has its stereotypes played out by the likes of Bob and Doug McKenzie, Corner Gas, or Jim Carrey's depiction of life in Canada. But really, what defines a Canadian? Unlike countries such as China, Sweden, or even the U.S., with distinct foods... Read More
Category: Ag Policy
The grain industry will likely have to wait at least a few more weeks for passage of Bill C-49, the federal legislation containing new rules pertaining to rail transportation. The House of Commons passed Transport Minister Marc Garneau's motion to accept only 10 of the Senate's 19 amendments to the Bill C-49 on Thursday, sending... Read More
There is an expectation that when the North American Free Trade Agreement talks resume as early as Monday, dairy access could be a higher priority in the talks. Recently, U.S. lawmakers wrote a letter to trade representative Robert Lighthizer to remind the administration of the desired changes to U.S. dairy access into Canada. In the... Read More
"Hello, I'm calling on behalf of Statistics Canada. Would you have time..." It's a familiar phone call for most Canadian farmers when StatsCan conducts its surveys for estimating crop and livestock production statistics across the country. The inconvenience of having to spend the time on the phone, combined with not wanting to share information about... Read More
At issue Ontario is set to introduce new rules and regulations as of July 1, 2018, regarding requirements for livestock rabies vaccination. All animals that will interact with the public will be required to maintain up-to-date vaccinations. Why is this a concern? Rabies isn't fun, you guys. But also, the changes to rabies immunization requirements... Read More
Five Manitoba farm groups that published a proposal to amalgamate late last year have signed a second memorandum of understanding to continue exploring how they can work together. Manitoba Corn Growers Association (MCGA), Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers Association (MPSG), Manitoba Flax Growers Association (MFGA), National Sunflower Association of Canada (NSAC) and the Manitoba Wheat... Read More
Statistics Canada's crop reports are often subject to criticism, with analysts, traders and farmers questioning or downplaying the accuracy and relevance of the agency's estimates. Participating in a StatsCan survey when the agency calls or emails you is technically mandatory under federal law, but the running joke is that farmers don't provide accurate information to... Read More
Ontario has released its provincial soil health strategy, a long-term framework that sets the vision, goals, and objectives for soil health and conservation in Ontario beginning this year and through to 2030. A 12-year strategy is lengthy in government program terms, but hardly a blip when we're talking soil health, research, and improvement. Can Ontario... Read More
The scoop: Transport Minister Marc Garneau has decided to accept the Senate's main grain-related amendments to Bill C-49 — the government's long-awaited transportation legislation. Farm groups are applauding the minister's decision, while urging MPs and Senators to agree on the amendments and to pass the bill before the summer break. The story: Farm groups are... Read More
Canada signed its name on the dotted line at the CPTPP signing ceremony in Chile on March 6th, 2018. But unfortunately, agriculture and other interested parties cannot afford to take pressure off the government. The deal will take effect when six of the eleven participating countries have ratified it. So if Canada drags its feet... Read More