Details of Alberta’s proposed farm workplace regulations have yet to be formalized, but it’s important farmers remain engaged in shaping what any rules look like, says a farm leader from another NDP-run prairie province. Bill 6 would subject Alberta farms and ranches to Occupational Health and Safety Legislation while making Workers’ Compensation Board insurance coverage... Read More

Gowan Company has announced a deal to acquire the entire DNA (dinitroaniline) herbicide portfolio from Dow AgroSciences, including popular herbicides Treflan and Edge. The products to be acquired by Gowan have active registrations in 22 countries including the USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, and parts of Europe. “We are enthusiastic to be able to acquire these... Read More

The "Natural Foods" section of any grocery store is a truly fascinating place. Here you find clusters of people intently reading fine print ingredient labels and sorting through the growing number of label claims fighting for space on product packaging. There’s a little something for everyone – from non-GMO verified, gluten-free, organic and dairy free... Read More

Rallies continued in Alberta today, with many farmers and ranchers asking the NDP government to slow or halt Bill 6 – The Enhancement of Protection of Farm and Ranch Workers Act. “Alberta is the only province where OHS legislation does not apply to farms and ranches,” according to the Alberta Government’s FAQ page. “Alberta’s farm... Read More

Alberta's crop commissions have joined forces in urging the provincial government to delay the implementation of its new farm safety and labour legislation to further consult with farmers. “The current government process is causing fear and uncertainty to grasp the industry. Farmers can provide good input and are the subject matter experts on what will... Read More

Women are looking for new opportunities in agriculture – in production, leadership and business, among them. When this search extends beyond Canada’s borders, the commodities may change. But the principles are the same, including equality, participation and recognition. Take Peru, for example, where coffee is a very popular commodity. Coffee production there everywhere else is... Read More

When we were kids, SPAM wasn’t a big meal item for us – but we did have it once in a while and I always loved a good SPAM sandwich. How taste buds change. I can’t handle the stuff anymore. I also am getting fed up with the spam that supposed animal rights activists are... Read More

Farmers and ranchers made their way to the Alberta Legislature today, to voice opposition to Bill 6. Their concerns were largely centred around the loss of a 'lifestyle,' and the 'family farm,' should the bill move forward. The rally was organized on Facebook, with another planned for Monday. Related: Alberta Labour Minister’s Perspective on Bill... Read More

The grains market continued to trade through the U.S. Thanksgiving week a bit quieter (par for the course) against a stronger U.S. dollar, but ended the week a bit higher thanks to some decent U.S. export sales for corn and soybeans. All things being equal, global trade continues to be encouraged by low ocean freight... Read More