Joe Dales's Blog (72)

Farmers Want Stable Canola Demand – Domestic Biofuels Market is Key

Trade Wins & the Need for Market Diversification: Lessons from the Canola Tariff Breakthrough After months of uncertainty, we are pleased to report positive developments on the trade front. Prime Minister Carney and Premier Moe’s diplomatic visit to China in January 2026 resulted in a resolution that led to a reduction in China’s canola tariffs—read this news release for greater detail on this file. While this is welcome news, it has also highlighted the risks of relying too heavily on only a couple of export markets. In today’s global trade environment, market diversification is more important than ever. Over the past year, canola—one of our largest export crops—has faced significant market risk. The recent tariff ruling confirms that depending on foreign buyers leaves us vulnerable to unpredictable policy changes. That’s why expanding domestic demand, especially biofuel, is crucial. Unlike exports, local biofuel markets can’t be affected by foreign tariffs. Crush It: Renewable Die

USask earns high marks in world university subject rankings

USask was listed among the top 50 universities in the world for veterinary science in the QS World University Rankings by Subject for 2026, earning a spot at 49th overall. In addition, USask ranked 54th in the world in agriculture and forestry, both increases that speak to USask’s strong research and scholarly impact in those subject areas. “Seeing USask’s success in these international rankings is just one indicator of the incredible research, scholarly and artistic work that takes place on campus,” said USask Vice-President Research Baljit Singh. “We are proud that the world-class work of our staff and faculty is recognized on a world stage such as this.” USask also climbed the rankings in four other subject areas: geophysics, chemistry, electrical and electronic engineering, as well as physics and astronomy. USask placed in the top 300 institutions in the world in the subject areas of veterinary science, agriculture and forestry, environmental sciences (151-200 tier), geophysics

USask Agros’ Bedpush raises more than $135,000 for Telemiracle

Bedpush 2026 raised a total of $135,400, the most ever in the history of event. In the 42 years of Bedpush, there has been more than one million dollars raised for Telemiracle. TeleMiracle is a telethon fundraiser benefiting the Kinsmen Foundation. The non-profit organization provides specialized mobility and medical equipment to people and organizations throughout Saskatchewan, as well as travel assistance for residents in need of vital medical treatment outside their home community. “Participating in Bedpush is one of my favourite memories throughout my journey at the University of Saskatchewan,” said Laurel O’Neill, an Agribusiness student and the Agros public relations officer who led Bedpush. “Bedpush has truly made me proud to be an Agro and to be involved in my community and college.” Bedpush is an exciting tradition in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources (AgBio) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask). As part of the college’s legacy, the biannual fundraiser brings

Purdue University Launches New Online Digital Agriculture Course

Purdue University is offering a new online Digital Agriculture course, introduced through a webinar that highlights course features, faculty insights, discounts, and enrollment support for learners.

Lower premiums for field crop businesses

Quebec City, QC – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada