The idea that Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) might scale back its involvement in crop variety development has farmers and industry experts talking. The consequences of such a move are multifaceted, and while some in the industry are exploring alternatives, the challenges remain significant. In a panel discussion held last week at the Alberta Seed Processors meeting in Edmonton, Alberta Seed Guide editor Marc Zienkiewicz noted that AAFC is planning to reduce its activities in regard to field-ready cultivar development. Who will fill the void, and what do farmers need to know? He was joined by three panelists: Lauren Comin, Seeds Canada policy director based in Calgary; Jeremy Boychyn, research director for Alberta Grains; and Jodi Souter, owner of J4 Agri-Science in Saskatoon. Regional Differences and Crop-Specific Needs “It’s very crop-specific and location-specific,” said Souter, a farmer and plant breeder. “There’s a big difference between agriculture in the East and the W
The Canadian inflation rate dropped further in December, helped by the federal government’s GST and
Canadian producers will plant more peas, lentils, and sunflowers in 2025, but cut back on other pulse and special crops, according to new Agriculture Canada projections.
Canadian producers are expected to increase corn planted area in 2025, while clawing back soybean acres.
Grain Farmers of Ontario, the province’s largest commodity organization, representing Ontario’s 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean, and wheat farmers, has released its 2025 Strategic Plan
