Dale Ketcheson's Page

Upper Canada Growers Ltd declares bankruptcy

Big ambitions have collapsed as Upper Canada Growers Ltd. and UCG Land Inc. filed for bankruptcy on May 15, 2025.  BDO Canada was appointed receiver by order of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. All employees were terminated on May 22.  

Weather Network Forecasts Summer Heat, Drought for Prairies

The Weather Network’s summer forecast is warning of heat and drought for Western Canada this summer. 

Warm, Muggy Summer Forecast for Southern Ontario

The Weather Network is forecasting warm, humid conditions for most of southern Ontario and Quebec this summer, but no widespread drought. 

IEA: Biomethane set to play key role in clean energy future

A new report from the International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights the significant untapped potential of biogas and biomethane in helping countries meet their energy and climate targets. The report, Outlook for Biogas and Biomethane, reveals that these renewable gases could be crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving waste management, and providing sustainable energy, particularly in rural and agricultural communities. The IEA states that current global production of biogas and biomethane could be increased more than fourfold using available sustainable feedstocks such as agricultural residues, food waste, animal manure, and wastewater. If fully realised, this potential could supply around 20% of today’s global natural gas demand. The report emphasises that biogas and biomethane offer not only environmental benefits but also social and economic advantages. Their use reduces methane emissions from waste, supports local economies, enhances energy security, and can provi

Results Are In--Science to Inform Good Stewardship, from AMR to Grazing to Sanitation

What can the genetics of BRD at feedlots tell us about antimicrobial resistance? There are clear differences in the antimicrobial resistance genes in bovine respiratory disease (BRD) pathogens in Canada compared to other places in the world, and while not directly related to antimicrobial use at feedlots, these could pose a risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the future independent of feedlot practices. These findings can all be used to inform surveillance and understand how specific feedlot practices are influencing AMR. Has making antibiotics “prescription only” affected antibiotic stewardship on cow-calf operations? Minimal changes to antimicrobial use have been observed since stricter regulations were imposed in December 2018. Antimicrobial use and resistance in the cow-calf sector pose limited risks to the health of humans, the environment or cattle. Proper antibiotic stewardship initiatives are essential to keep these risks low.