Mike Cowbrough's Blog (2)

Wildfire Smoke Over Ontario--What Farmers Need to Know

Wildfire smoke is becoming a recurring challenge for Ontario agriculture, farmers are facing concerns about worker safety, livestock health, and day-to-day farm operations.

How AI Could Improve Productivity and Competitiveness in Canadian Agriculture

Farm Credit Canada's report highlights that accelerating AI adoption can boost the competitiveness of Canada's agriculture sector, though current usage lags far behind other industries.

EMILI Celebrates 10 Years of Connecting Farmers, Innovators, and Industry Partners

EMILI received $3.5 million in federal funding to expand agricultural innovation, support technology testing, and help farmers adopt practical digital solutions.

Secretary Naig to Present the Dolan Family of Buchanan County with the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig will present the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to Sean and Sara Dolan of Buchanan County during a ceremony on Friday, July 17, at the Monti Community Center near Coggon. The award presentation will be part of an open house scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The statewide award recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who take pride in caring for their livestock and the environment while serving as good neighbors and community leaders. Sean and Sara Dolan own and operate Newton Pork, a 600-sow farrow-to-wean operation near Coggon. Their son, Mikel, works full time on the farm, while their daughter, Frankie, recently graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in agronomy and will begin her career as a sales agronomist with River Valley Cooperative. The Dolans market pigs through a partnership with Sean's brother, Mark, who shares ownership of the finishing enterprise, while Sean's father, Jim, continues to lend a hand during harvest each fall. B

Board of Directors Nomination Period Open for 2026

Shape the Future of Alberta Canola – Take your Seat at the Table  The future of Alberta’s canola industry starts with growers.  Agriculture continues to face challenges, from market access and trade to research, regulations, farm profitability, and more. Alberta Canola needs experienced producers who are ready to share their knowledge, bring fresh perspectives, and help lead the industry forward.  If you’re passionate about the future of canola farming, now is the time to step up.  Nominations are now open for Directors in Regions 2, 5, 8 and 11.  Find your region: albertacanola.com/regions  Nomination deadline: 4:00 p.m. on Oct. 30, 2026  Why Become a Director? Alberta Canola’s board is governed by growers, for growers. Directors work alongside fellow producers to make decisions that create lasting value for Alberta’s canola industry.  As a director, you will:  Represent and advocate for the growers in your region.  Help direct grower investments in research, agronomy, marke