Local, Regional, Canadian News
Ontario to spend $19M on greenhouse competitiveness initiative
Jeff Leal, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, announced on Thursday a pledge to spend $19 million through the greenhouse competitiveness and innovation initiative. MORE
Ontario processing tomato contracts set
An agreement has been reached between growers and processors of Ontario tomatoes for the 2017 growing season, maintaining the 2016 pricing agreement and 2016 contract tonnage. MORE
Steinbach dairy is cream of the crop
Brent and Kirsty Oswald have been named Manitoba’s Outstanding Young Farmers MORE
A dairy-for-lumber deal? Think-tank paper proposes Canada-U.S. swap for NAFTA
The most common uses of Canadian dairy normally include milk, cream, yogurt, butter and cheese. But a new report suggests an altogether different application: use it as a bargaining chip. MORE
Environmental Farm Plan Renewals
The Enhanced Environmental Farm Plan Program sent out renewal letters in early 2017 to notify producers that their environmental farms plans would be expiring at the end of the year. If you are a producer who has not yet contacted the office to have your plan updated please call Matt or JoAnn at 902-368-7289.
EFP’s are valid for 5 years and we encourage all farmers to participate in the program. Participation in the program also allows you to apply for funding through the Growing Forward 2 Agriculture Stewardship Program, Farmland Finance Program and the Future Farmer Program. For your convenience the EFP can be completed at your farm or at the PEI Federation of Agricultural office and takes approximately 1.5 hrs to complete. EFP’s are no cost to the producer.
If you feel your EFP may be expired and you have not yet been contacted please call the office and we will check the status of your last plan. Further information on the Enhanced Environmental Farm Plan Program can be found on the PEI Federation of Agriculture webpage www.peifa.ca/efp/
Field Crop position opportunity with the Department of Agriculture & Fisheries – Cereals and Oilseeds Development Officer
The purpose of this position is to co-ordinate and deliver advice, assistance and information to clients and other staff on the production, harvesting and storage of oilseed, cereal, and forage crops. The Cereals and Oilseeds Development Officer will also be responsible for providing, in partnership with industry, leadership in identifying new crop industry opportunities with potential for increased value. MORE
Department of Agriculture & Fisheries – 2017 Agricultural Pesticide Class D
Seed Piece Treatment Training Course
Thursday, April 5, 2017
Location: Rodd Royalty (next to the Peter Pan), Charlottetown
Registration starts at 8:30 a.m.
Course starts at 9 a.m. till 12 noon
Cost $75.00 (The fee for a five (5) year Seed Piece Certificate is $75. Please bring this payment with you and make cheques payable to the Minister of Finance)
Individuals who are directly involved with seed piece treatment of agricultural crops, including potatoes and cereals require a Class D Seed Piece Treatment Certificate. No exam is required, but you must attend a half day training session to receive a Seed Piece Class D Certificate.
Please Note: If you hold a valid Class A Pesticide Applicator Certificate,
a Class D Certificate is NO LONGER REQUIRED. Must be 18 years of age for certificate.
As space is limited, please pre-register by calling the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries at 902-368-4880
Department of Agriculture & Fisheries – 2017 Agricultural Pesticide Loader / Mixer Training
Loader/Mixer Training
Wednesday, April 11, 2017
Location: Rodd Royalty (next to the Peter Pan), Charlottetown
Registration starts at 8:30 a.m.
Course starts at 9 a.m. till 12 noon
Cost $50.00 (The fee for a five (5) year Loader/Mixer Certificate is $50. Please bring this payment with you and make cheques payable to the Minister of Finance.)
Individuals who do not apply pesticides, but are directly involved with the mixing of a non-domestic pesticide for the application of agricultural crops, must have a Pesticide Loader/Mixer Certificate. No exam is required, but you must attend a half day training session to receive a Loader/Mixer Certificate. Must be 18 years of age for certification .
Please Note: If you hold a valid Class A Pesticide Applicator Certificate,
a Loader/Mixer Certificate is NO LONGER REQUIRED.
As space is limited, please pre-register by calling 902-368-4880.
Livestock
Manitoba Beef Producers releases carbon pricing policy
Manitoba Beef Producers is proposing a carbon pricing policy centred around recognizing its sector as part of the solution. MORE
Beef producers seeing more wolf kills
Wolf predation is a growing concern among producers, says association president MORE
Canadian Dairy Sector is Growing, Not Lagging!
In an article published in yesterday’s Globe and Mail, Glen Hodgson of the Conference Board of Canada writes that while Canada’s agri-food sector is growing, supply-managed sectors are lagging behind. I’m not one to question the credibility of an author, but when it comes to supply management, Mr. Hodgson is way off base. MORE
Total Commercial Cattle Slaughter in February Up 3.5%
USDA issued its monthly production statistics for beef and pork, reports Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc. MORE
Crisis Slows Efforts to Reclaim European Beef Market
The land invasions experienced in Laikipia County could slow down Kenya’s efforts to reclaim its beef export quota to the European Union, which it lost 25 years ago. MORE
‘Operation Weak Flesh’ takes bite out of Brazil’s meat exports
Brazil’s meat exports have fallen sharply since a police investigation into alleged bribery of food-sanitation inspectors in the world’s top beef and poultry exporter sparked a wave of trade bans, an industry group said on Friday. MORE
Improved Communication with Public, Media Top Priority for Agriculture
The Chair of Manitoba Pork says improved communication with the public and with the media has become a top priority within the Canadian pork industry, writes Bruce Cochrane. MORE
CME lean hogs give back recent gains
Chicago Mercantile Exchange lean hog futures on Friday suffered their biggest one-day loss in a month, with pressure from liquidation by funds that were largely responsible for Thursday’s market rally, said traders. MORE
Hog Slaughter in February Down 0.6%
USDA issued its monthly production statistics for beef and pork, reports Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc. MORE
NPPC Urges USDA to Abandon GIPSA Rule
Citing grave concerns that they would “cause serious harm to the pork industry,” the National Pork Producers Council said the US Department of Agriculture should not finalize – or at least exempt pork producers from – regulations related to the buying and selling of livestock. MORE
Spanish Pork Exports to China Hit Record High in 2016
Spain’s exports to China hit a record high in 2016 with €5.03 billion ($5.43 billion), Spanish news agency EFE reported on Friday. MORE
Another Positive Week for Sellers; Weekly Contribution Prices Also Up
Another positive week for sellers with the SPP putting on 0.86p to stand at 151.04p and weekly contribution prices also rising by up to 3p/kg with most now between 150p – 158p/kg according to spec, writes Peter Crichton in his “Traffic Lights” commentary for 24 March. MORE
Easter influence seen on prices
Demand for the looming holiday drove some early purchases MORE
Atlantic Stockyards Market Report – March 23 – HERE
*Scroll down to find current report
Ontario Cattlemen’s Association Market Report – Friday, March 24 HERE
Potatoes
Expanding the Canadian potato market
More Growing Forward 2 funding has been put in place to help expand markets for Canadian potatoes. MORE
After 15+ years of absence, genetically engineered potatoes will return to Canada
Since Monsanto took their genetically modified Newleaf /Naturemark potatoes of the market in 2001, no GM potatoes have been grown commercially in Canada. MORE
Nutrients for Life Foundation: 10 Years in Classrooms
Those in agriculture know fertilizer is a vital ingredient to grow strong, productive crops. In fact, fertilizer is responsible for as much as 50 percent of the world’s food production. However, growers, crop nutrient suppliers and fertilizer manufacturers risk their social license to operate if the public doesn’t understand the benefits of fertilizer and its role in producing nutritious food. MORE
Planting Disease-free Seed
Selecting and planting clean, disease-free potato seed pieces is an important first step to assuring a successful potato crop, no matter the size MORE
Potatoes USA Board Members for 2017 Sworn in during Annual Meeting
Potatoes USA Board Members were sworn in during its Annual Meeting held in Denver CO, March 13- 16. MORE
Science embraces potato as sustainable choice during Second Potato Congress
The Second Potato Congress of 16 March drew many dieticians, scientists, weight consultants and representatives from the potato sector. The Potato Congress is organised by the Dutch Potato Organisation, in order to offer an objective stage for knowledge of the potato, focused on food professionals. MORE
“Consumers are looking for something special”
The sales of waxy, smooth Laurette potatoes are going satisfactorily. This smooth, waxy potato was introduced in 2015. “The growth is enormous. Compared to the same period last year, we sold over 15 per cent more,” says Bart Nemegheer from De Aardappelhoeve. MORE
German Potato Breeder Interseed New Shareholder Breeders Trust
The seed potato breeding company Interseed Potatoes GmbH located at Wittmund Germany, recently became the newest shareholder of Breeders Trust. MORE
UK based manufacturer of cut and peeled potato products closes shop
Potato Processing company M&F, a manufacturer of fresh cut and peeled potato products in the United Kingdom, has closed after losing one of its main customers. MORE
Nearly 100 jobs lost after UK potato processor closes
Beverley-based potato processor M&F lost nearly 100 staff who were made redundant following the failure of a £9m-turnover business which supplied peeled, chipped and sliced potatoes to major supermarket chains. MORE
Belgian potato processing sector rounds off a record year for 2016
2016 was an absolute record year for the Belgian potato procession sector, according to the conclusions of Belgapom, the association for the Belgian potato trade and processing industry. MORE
Guardians of the Andean Potato
The Pachamama, or Earth Mother, is the most sacred place for Andean farmers. Sixty-five-year-old Jose Palomino from Andahuaylas, Peru, was initiated into the world of growing potatoes as a child, working alongside his parents. MORE
AAFC / InfoHort Potato Reports HERE
USDA – Daily National Potato and Onion Report HERE
Crops
North American Grains/Oilseed Review: Canola drops with US soy, technicals
The ICE Futures Canada canola market finished weaker on Friday, as declines in the US soy complex pointed the way lower. MORE
ICE Futures Canada Friday: Canola futures prices lower, barley unchanged HERE
Canadian canola crush sets new weekly record
Canada’s canola crush hit a new weekly record during the week ended Wednesday, with processors across the country operating at nearly full capacity. MORE
Tax treatment of deferred grain cash tickets under review
Grain growers in Canada who take deferred cash purchase tickets for crops are being asked whether it’s time to get rid of the rule that allows income from those tickets to be put off to the following tax year. MORE
Managing root rot in pulses
Peas and lentils have been a financial and rotational blessing for producers, but aphanomyces in partnership with fusarium is raining on their parade MORE
Infections of peas versus lentils
Sherrilyn Phelps’ first day with Sask Pulse was July 7, 2014. By 8 a.m. that morning, she’d already fielded her first call on root rot. It was a sign of things to come. MORE
Ontario cereals lab filling nationwide demand
Grain Farmers of Ontario and SGS Canada took a risk in creating the Grains Analytical Testing Laboratory, as a partnership bringing wheat testing to a province with a comparatively small wheat crop. MORE
CBOT soybeans, corn fall
U.S. soybean futures dropped 1.6 per cent on Friday to their lowest level in more than five months on pressure from rising forecasts for already-robust South American harvests, traders said. MORE
AM markets: wheat market gives verdict on weekend’s US rains HERE
PEI Grain Elevator Prices – HERE
Grain Farmers of Ontario – Daily Commodity Report HERE
More Futures Prices HERE and HERE
General Interest
Raise resilient kids
My parents came to Canada from the Netherlands after the Second World War. They came with very little money and only a few words of English, but they had a dream to own their own farm. MORE
Brexit Cannot Derail Farming, Food Growth Targets
Speaking at the ASA debate on Brexit in Kilkenny last week, IFA President Joe Healy dismissed any suggestion of diluting growth targets for the farming and food industry because of Brexit. MORE
China powers up
The world’s most populous country gets serious about farm machinery MORE
Regular Updates
Weekly PEI Agriculture Market Report – March 24 HERE
Rayglen Market Comments – March 22 HERE
Ontario Farm Market Summary – Thursday, March 23 HERE
AgWeather Atlantic HERE
Today’s Local Weather – HERE
Meetings and Events
2017 Wireworm Research & Extension Seminar
Tuesday, March 28th, 2017
Red Shores Racetrack, Charlottetown
Will feature presentations by researchers conducting wireworm/click beetle research both locally and nationally.
Registration: $20, includes buffet lunch at Top of the Park Restaurant
To register: Contact Ryan Barrett at (902) 892-6551 or ryan@peipotato.org by March 22nd. MORE
PEI COPC Annual General Meeting
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
7:00 PM at the Farm Centre MORE
PEI Apple Growers
The P.E.I. Apple Growers Association will be hosting Andrew Lovell, Chairman of Apple Growers of New Brunswick.
He will be sharing The Strategic plan for New Brunswick 2016-2026.
Please join us to understand the exciting opportunities we share and the financial rewards that can be achieved.
If you operate a farm at the present time and are interested in generating more profit per acre, I strongly encourage you to attend this event.
Its FREE for all interested simply call Geoff Boyle at 902-628-7434 to confirm your attendance.
It will be held Mar 31st at Rodd Royalty Charlottetown, Crowbush room.
Meet and greet from 6 -6:30pm, presentation to follow.
Women in Agriculture Recognition Award
The provincial board of PEI Women’s Institute is now accepting nominations for the Women in Agriculture Recognition Award. This award, in the form of a plaque and framed photo posted at the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, is presented bi-annually to recognize an Island woman making a major contribution to the PEI agriculture industry within the last five years. Members of the community or fellow farmers are encouraged to contact their local branches to nominate women in the agriculture industry for this award. March 31 marks the deadline for this and other scholarships and awards. A complete list of PEIWI awards and scholarships are available at www.peiwi.ca or by contacting the WI Office at 902-368-4860 or wi@gov.pe.ca. MORE
PEI Woodlot Owners Association Annual General Meeting
The Annual Meeting and Workshop of the PEI Woodlot Owners Association will be held on Saturday April 1, 2017 at the Farm Center, University Ave., Charlottetown.
Registration will begin at 8:30 am with the meeting to begin at 9:00 am.
Agenda topics include:
- Developing a sustainable woodlot
- Invasive species of trees and shrubs in our woodlots
- Forest Enhancement Program of PEI
- Role of Trapping in Animal Conservation
- Canadian Forum of Woodlot Owners
- Annual Business Meeting for all members of PEIWOA
Anyone with a woodlot on PEI is welcome to attend and participate.
Department of Agriculture & Fisheries – 2017 Agricultural Pesticide Class D
Seed Piece Treatment Training Course
Thursday, April 5, 2017
Location: Rodd Royalty (next to the Peter Pan), Charlottetown
Registration starts at 8:30 a.m.
Course starts at 9 a.m. till 12 noon
Cost $75.00 (The fee for a five (5) year Seed Piece Certificate is $75. Please bring this payment with you and make cheques payable to the Minister of Finance)
Individuals who are directly involved with seed piece treatment of agricultural crops, including potatoes and cereals require a Class D Seed Piece Treatment Certificate. No exam is required, but you must attend a half day training session to receive a Seed Piece Class D Certificate.
Please Note: If you hold a valid Class A Pesticide Applicator Certificate,
a Class D Certificate is NO LONGER REQUIRED. Must be 18 years of age for certificate.
As space is limited, please pre-register by calling the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries at 902-368-4880
Department of Agriculture & Fisheries – 2017 Agricultural Pesticide Loader / Mixer Training
Loader/Mixer Training
Wednesday, April 11, 2017
Location: Rodd Royalty (next to the Peter Pan), Charlottetown
Registration starts at 8:30 a.m.
Course starts at 9 a.m. till 12 noon
Cost $50.00 (The fee for a five (5) year Loader/Mixer Certificate is $50. Please bring this payment with you and make cheques payable to the Minister of Finance.)
Individuals who do not apply pesticides, but are directly involved with the mixing of a non-domestic pesticide for the application of agricultural crops, must have a Pesticide Loader/Mixer Certificate. No exam is required, but you must attend a half day training session to receive a Loader/Mixer Certificate. Must be 18 years of age for certification .
Please Note: If you hold a valid Class A Pesticide Applicator Certificate,
a Loader/Mixer Certificate is NO LONGER REQUIRED.
As space is limited, please pre-register by calling 902-368-4880.
Atlantic Green Expo
The first ever in Atlantic Canada!
Presented by Charlottetown company e365,
Friday, April 21 to Sunday, April 23 at the UPEI, School of Sustainable Design Engineering.
Atlantic Green Expo will showcase green solutions from eco-friendly exhibitors covering topics
such as clean and energy saving technologies, organic farming, eco-friendly products, transportation, watersheds and more. Educational sessions will be held throughout the Expo for
people interested in making more environmentally sound decisions when choosing products and
services.
Atlantic Green Expo will also feature Keynote speakers and activities for children. Visit Atlantic
Green Expo website for further information at http://atlanticgreenexpo.com/
Institute of Canada (AIC) is hosting a national conference titled “Agriculture Innovation in a changing environment”
Addressing the topic of climate change and agriculture.
April 24-26, 2017 in Winnipeg, MB MORE
Atlantic Farm Women Conference
April 28 & 29 at the Delta Halifax, N.S.
Register before March 31 registration fee is $90 plus you will be entered to win your conference registration free. After March 31, registration will be $115.
To register: http://atlanticfarmwomen.weebly.com/-registration.html
Agenda on line: http://atlanticfarmwomen.weebly.com/agenda.html
Trade Team PEI Business Mission to South Korea
When: May 15, 2017 – May 19, 2017
Where: Seoul, South Korea
Innovation PEI, in partnership with the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) are seeking interest from PEI-based enterprises and organizations to participate in a multi-sector Business Mission to South Korea during the week of May 15-19, 2017. MORE
This mission will serve to enhance existing export relationships, provide opportunities for market expansion while at the same time providing an exceptional opportunity to introduce companies to this strong market. Korea is the 13th largest economy in the world and is one of the largest importing countries on the planet. P.E.I.’s exports to Korea in 2016 were almost $15 million and Canadian products/suppliers are much sought after for our high quality and reputation to deliver. This mission will be of particular interest to companies in the professional services, ICT, clean tech, education, manufacturing and food sectors. The customization of each delegate’s business development program to advance their mission-week and market objectives will be a core feature of this initiative.
During this week the Seoul Food and Hotel Show will be taking place offering mission participants a chance to see first-hand the breadth of product offering and to gather key market intelligence. While there is a Canada pavilion at this event, P.E.I. will not have a booth at the show for this year. Participants will be able to walk the show. However we will also be exploring this opportunity for future years. For details on the Seoul Hotel and Food Show visit http://www.seoulfoodnhotel.co.kr/
For more information on this mission and to express your interest in participating, please contact either of these mission leads by email or by phone:
Scott Ferris – Innovation PEI scferris@gov.pe.ca or (902) 368-5952 or Jeff Burry – ACOA Jeff.Burry@canada.ca or (902) 314-2197
