Mike McFarlane's Page

Falling Behind on Direct Alcohol Shipping Deadline

Canada’s small alcohol producers are demanding answers as governments fail to deliver promised direct-to-consumer shipping reforms ahead of a key May deadline.

Major Weather Pattern Shift Signals Heat, Rain Relief, and El Niño Intensification Across U.S.

A significant late-May pattern shift is set to reshape U.S. weather, bringing needed rainfall to drought areas, extreme heat to northern regions, and increasing confidence in a strong El Niño.

US China Trade Deal Sparks New Hopes for Agriculture Markets

The US China trade deal (once in force) may boost agriculture markets, along with weather and global factors. Farmers could see higher prices and better profits, though market uncertainty and risks remain.

Saskatchewan Startup Unveils Portable Device to Detect Crop Diseases in the Field

A Saskatoon-based startup is transforming crop protection with a portable testing device that delivers rapid disease detection, helping farmers reduce losses and improve decision-making.

$15.1M to Scale Whole-Cut Plant-Based Protein

A $15.1 million investment led by Protein Industries Canada will scale a breakthrough manufacturing platform for whole-cut protein alternatives, strengthening Canada’s food system and creating new value for Canadian-grown crops.