Thomas Eckschmidt's Page

Pilot project supports Ontario and Quebec ag

The project will improve access for livestock processing for some producers

Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture advance a shared vision for the Next Policy Framework

Federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Agriculture concluded their annual conference today in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Their shared commitment to building a competitive, innovative and resilient agriculture and agri-food sector was reaffirmed, while also recognizing the importance of taking a collaborative approach in supporting all producers and processors from coast-to-coast-to-coast. 

Ontario Farmers Harvest One of Canada’s Top Carrot Crops

Ontario's 2026 carrot harvest is underway, reinforcing the province as Canada's leading producer with a steady year-round supply despite recent summer heat challenges.

Shane Hedderson, MBA, Appointed Cleanfarms Executive Director Effective July 1, 2026

Cleanfarms has named Shane Hedderson, MBA, as its new Executive Director, effective July 1, 2026, following a national search for the organization’s next leader. A long-standing member of Cleanfarms’ senior management team, Mr. Hedderson brings deep experience in agricultural stewardship, circular economy initiatives and industry partnership development to the role. He succeeds Barry Friesen, who retired in April 2026. “Shane is a dynamic leader who brings a rare combination of strategic insight, operational expertise and strong industry relationships to this important national role,” said Boyd Bergstrom, Chair of the Cleanfarms Board of Directors. “The board has had the opportunity to work with Shane over many years, and we have every confidence in his ability to guide Cleanfarms through the opportunities and challenges ahead.” “It is an honour to take on this role and to continue building on the accomplishments of the past 15 years alongside our talented team,” said Shane Hedderson

Drone company, German-based company among Innovation Award winners

Organizers of Ag in Motion held the Innovation in Agriculture Reception on Monday night. A total of four gold award winners and 10 silver award winners were honoured. “Ag in Motion is built around sharing ideas and bringing the industry together to see what’s possible,” says show director Rob O’Connor in a news release. “The Innovations Program gives farmers an early look at new solutions and technologies, made possible through strong collaboration with our industry partners.” LandView Drones, based in Camrose, Alberta, was one of the gold winners for its SwathView Technology. "This was the game-changing year here in Canada because the stars really aligned," said Markus Weber, the President and CEO of LandView Drones, referring to new federal regulations, combined with very wet fields in parts of eastern Saskatchewan and western Manitoba, have led more farmers to use drones to apply fungicides. "Everybody wanted to get started with drones this year, Weber said. "The only problem i