Valerie Clark's Page

Canola Watch - Timely Tips

Blast off to burnoff The pre-seed window is the best time to control kochia...and winter annuals...and other annoying early-risers. Kochia requires a tank mix because biotypes have resistance to a number of herbicides, including glyphosate. Ahead of canola, consider a product that includes Group 27 topramezone. Go early, but not too early. Make sure weeds are actively growing (to take up herbicide) and that frost risk is low for the day after application.  Pre-seed burnoff: Tips for best results How to contain herbicide-resistant kochia Gophers need food! Now is the best time to bait Richardson’s ground squirrels...because fresh green foliage is in short supply. The hungry rodents are more likely to eat the baits. Strychnine may be available in designated locales by late May, but that is...TOO...LATE. If the hordes are giving you that smug look, use what’s available and bait them now. Gopher management Weather map of the week Just in case you needed extra proof that our spring has

Mental health resources in Canadian ag

May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month

Processing our food future here at home

By Angela Field, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Canola’s Role at the Biofuels Table

Prairie farmers are beginning to connect the dots between biofuels and canola prices. And for good reason. The growth of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel is quickly becoming one of the biggest demand drivers for Canadian canola. Canola producers are well-positioned to benefit. But many growers still do not fully see how biofuels are directly driving market demand for their crop. WHAT ARE BIOFUELS AND WHY DO THEY MATTER? Biofuels are fuels made from renewable biological materials such as crops, plant oils, and organic waste, rather than fossil fuels. Common examples include ethanol, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel. Because these fuels offer lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions and can be used in today’s engines, biofuels are increasingly being adopted by transportation sectors looking to reduce their environmental footprint. For canola farmers, that shift is creating real demand. THE RELEVANCE OF BIOFUELS The reality is that the demand for Canadi

Importance of women in agriculture: Minister Sigurdson

Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson issued the following statement about the International Year of the Woman Farmer: “Women have always contributed significantly to agriculture in Alberta and around the world. We’re pleased to see more recognition for the important role they have in advancing the ag and agri-food sectors.  “Across every acre of our agricultural landscape, women are helping shape the future of food and farming with determination, intelligence and heart. They are partners in stewarding the land, innovative thinkers working to solve tomorrow’s challenges and courageous leaders helping to drive Alberta’s agriculture sector forward. “For every crop planted, every animal grown, every step on the food supply chain, women have been there along the way. Whether it’s in the field, the lab, the boardroom or the classroom, women in agriculture continue to showcase their resilience, dedication and grit. “Every March, the Notables Awards Ceremony is a shining exa