Steve Twynstra's Page

Saskatchewan Pulse Growers wants new international markets explored

Saskatchewan Pulse Growers is appreciating a good harvest, as the focus shifts towards finding new international trade partners. Despite drought conditions in parts of western Saskatchewan, Carl Potts, executive director of SPG, described yields in the majority of the province as “strong” and “higher-than-average” to go with good crop quality. He adds that farmers are continuing their fall field work and recent rains will benefit soil moisture going into next year’s growing season. However, declining crop prices, including those for pulses, as well as trade tensions are putting pressure on growers. Peas are the most burdened by recent trade policies.  In March, China imposed a 100 per cent import tax on Canadian peas in retaliation of Canada’s levy on Chinese electric vehicles, steel and aluminum.  On Oct. 30, India announced it will implement a 30 per cent import duty on yellow peas effective Nov. 1 at the earliest.

Gift will support a new Veterinary Technology Simulation Lab in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan Polytechnic received a $1-million gift to support a simulation lab for the Veterinary Technology program at the new Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus. The funds came from the Heather Ryan and L. David Dubé Foundation. The new simulation lab will provide students with a hands-on learning environment to practice clinical techniques and hone essential skills. The space will allow faculty to deliver a range of simulation experiences, from client scenarios with actors, to procedures using computerized models. The advanced simulation and modelling technology positions Sask Polytech students at the forefront of innovation in veterinary medicine and animal health care. Ryan said as animal owners; the donation is about ensuring the best possible care in Saskatchewan. “We’re committed to supporting the health and well-being of all animals looked after by vet techs across the province. Animals are a big part of our lives, and we want Sask Polytech students to have access to the la

50 years of growing Alberta’s Ag talent

Established in 1975 as the first program of its kind in Canada, Alberta’s government announced the training program for the province’s future farmers. Alberta is celebrating 50 successful years of this popular rural employment and training program, supporting high school students to enter and build careers in agriculture while earning high school credits at the same time. Through the program, students develop the confidence, skills and knowledge they need to undertake careers in the agriculture industry. It provides real-life experience for trainees who want to apply for higher education in agriculture and grow their ag employability. “Since the start of the Green Certificate Program, thousands of students have graduated with the skills and training they need to start a career in agriculture. The program empowers trainees to learn at their own pace, giving them hands-on experience of working for a local farm or agri-business. It continues to support ag employment in our rural communi

Fund supports next generation of B.C. farmers

Farmers beginning operations in British Columbia are getting help to plan and grow their agricultural businesses so they can succeed and offer B.C. families fresh and local food. The New Entrant Farm Business Accelerator Program will be opening for eligible farmers to apply to develop or update a farm business plan and prepare a growth strategy for their farm operations. Eligible farmers will also be able to apply for funding to implement their growth strategy, including support for on-farm infrastructure and other investments, in spring 2026. Farmers that participated in the last intake of the program have succeeded in increasing farm income and productivity. For example, Mikayla MacLeod of Charnwood Flowers in Chilliwack received support to purchase a large cold-frame greenhouse so she could extend the growing season. This new addition on the flower farm helped the business increase sales by having more flowers to sell throughout the year. Louise Lecouffe and Jed Wiebe of Elderbe

2026 increase to farmgate milk price aligned with inflation

 In October 2025, the Canadian Dairy Commission (CDC) conducted the annual review of Canadian farmgate milk prices. As a result of this review and consultations with stakeholders, the following changes are intended to be implemented on February 1, 2026.