Wayne Black's Page

New University of Manitoba research chair to advance beef production sustainability

Thanks to a $1.5 million grant from the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC), the University of Manitoba (UM), along with its partners at Manitoba Beef Producers, Manitoba Agriculture, and Manitoba Beef and Forage Initiatives is proud to announce the establishment of the BCRC Chair in Beef Cattle Economic Sustainability. “It’s important for our industry to understand beneficial management practices that boost productivity, profitability, and environmental sustainability – including those related to greenhouse gas emissions, land and water use, and biodiversity,” said Craig Lehr, the Beef Cattle Research Council chair and Alberta beef producer. “This new Chair will focus on viable solutions for Canadian beef cattle producers with innovations that improve economic sustainability while reducing environmental footprint.” The beef industry faces mounting challenges, including volatile input costs, climate-related risks, and limited access to equitable risk management tools. These pressure

University of Manitoba honours agricultural leaders with 2025 Certificate of Merit

The University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences celebrated the 45th anniversary of its Certificate of Merit by recognizing three outstanding alumni for their exceptional contributions to Manitoba’s agricultural sector and rural communities. Since its inception in 1981, the Certificate of Merit has honoured over 95 individuals who have demonstrated exemplary leadership in agriculture, agri-food, and community service. This year’s recipients — Cathey Day, Fred Greig, and Kim McConnell — were celebrated at a special ceremony on June 19 for their lasting impact on the province’s farm and food landscape. “We are proud to honour these three remarkable leaders in this milestone year,” said Martin Scanlon, Dean, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences. “We know that our alumni have deep and lasting impacts – not only within their professions, but also in their communities. These honourees are a true inspiration for young people who are considering studies and career

Saskatchewan government announces support measures for producers amid dry conditions

The federal government, alongside the Saskatchewan government has announced new measures by the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) to support producers facing this year’s challenging dry conditions. SCIC will implement the double low yield appraisal process, encouraging acres of low-yielding eligible crops to be diverted for grazing, baling, or silage to make additional feed available. Under this initiative, severely damaged crops with appraised yields below an established threshold will have their yield reduced to zero for crop insurance claims. SCIC is doubling the low yield appraisal threshold values, allowing producers to salvage their eligible crops as feed without negatively impacting future individual coverage. All qualifying acres for double low yield appraisals must be diverted to livestock feed and cannot be left to harvest. Producers are advised to contact their local SCIC office before putting damaged crops to an approved alternate use. Daryl Harrison, Saskatc

Bioenterprise Canada Announces Round 2 Participants in the Grow Ontario Accelerator Hub

Bioenterprise Canada is pleased to announce the successful applicants from round 2 of the Grow Ontario Accelerator Hub (GOAH). Twenty (20) Ontario-based companies have been selected to receive advisory, mentorship, and support services through our growing national network, Canada’s Food & Agri-Tech Engine. 

AGCO Announces Agreements Reached with TAFE on Key Commercial and Other Issues

AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AGCO), a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision ag technology,