Joe Dales's Blog (72)

Listening to Growers, Investing in the Future of Canola

Alberta Canola funds research that investigates the best ways to grow canola, finds solutions for pest management, and increases the demand for canola in Alberta. The research we support must be innovative and provide long-term value to canola farmers in Alberta. For the past three years, Alberta Canola has been hosting Research Symposiums around the province, held in conjunction with the Alberta Canola Conference in January, to share information and seek feedback on the priorities most important to farmers. Research Symposiums have been held in Red Deer, Grande Prairie, and Lethbridge, and they all featured an interactive activity where attendees ‘invested’ funds in areas that they thought to be the most important for research funding. The results from the Research Symposium activities have helped evolve research priorities, supporting decisions on research investment. When Alberta Canola reviews research letters of intent and full proposals each year, we consider which projects wi

Making it Easier to Get Back to Farming with Right to Repair Policy

Farm equipment has become more advanced with every passing year. From artificial intelligence to variable rate technology, investments in these innovations promise efficiency, but often with fewer options for farmers to diagnose and repair their own equipment. Farmers used to be able to simply review the index and service checklist in the operator’s manual, but now there is more control by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and a greater reliance on diagnostics software from a certified technician. This has led to downtime and added cost during critical production windows as farmers lose their ability to get their owned and operated farm equipment up and running after a breakdown. The concept of Right to Repair empowers farmers with the tools and information they need to fix their equipment quickly, easing the burden of breakdowns and keeping operations running smoothly. KEY BENEFITS INCLUDE: • Faster repairs: Farmers or independent mechanics can diagnose fault codes and access

Alberta Canola Welcomes New Provincial Canola Agronomy Specialist

Alberta Canola acknowledges the strategic changes announced by the Canola Council of Canada, including the launch of its refreshed strategic framework and realignment of resources. This restructure comes at a pivotal time, enabling the Council to focus on delivering the greatest value to its members, including fostering innovation, advancing market access, and amplifying the value of Canadian canola. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to their Crop Production & Innovation team for their valuable contributions to the growth and profitability of the canola sector. “Alberta Canola has had a longstanding, collaborative relationship with Council’s Agronomists.” says Justin Nanninga, representative on the Canola Council of Canada board. “They’ve played a key role in the success the canola industry has achieved.” “These types of decisions are never easy,” said Andre Harpe, Chair of Alberta Canola. “We appreciate Canola Council’s strategic focus in these challenging times. Their work in e

The Grey Cup as decided by ag

Which province’s ag sector will help it capture the Grey Cup?

DKF Red and Black Angus honoured with Golden Sheaf award

DKF Red and Black Angus received the Golden Sheaf award during the annual Ag Appreciation Night, held by the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce on Nov. 7. The DKF story is rooted in southern Saskatchewan, where six generations have carried forward a legacy of resilience, innovation, and community-minded leadership. The Golden Sheaf recognizes excellence in agriculture and citizenship. Candidates are judged in five areas: community involvement, innovation and entrepreneurship, longevity, professional involvement, and stewardship. Weyburn Chamber vice-president Jordan Szczecinski presented nomination background on DKF Red and Black Angus prior to calling them to the stage, which included highlighting community involvement for many members of the family. “They have served on school boards, coached minor hockey sports, and led 4-H club with unwavering dedication. From weigh-in days to demonstration clinics, their farm has been a classroom for countless youth. A place where agriculture is just