Dan Gardner, a New York Times best-selling author, explained at a recent food integrity forum that knowing how the human brain works when analyzing risk can be used to open conversations between producers and consumers. He told those attending the 2019 Canadian Centre for Food Integrity Food System Forum Series, that the consumer is becoming […] Read more
How our brains analyze risk may help to open conversation to consumers
Language and method of delivery matter in the ability to overcome emotional responses
Who should be trusted when it comes to the science of food safety?
The eating habits of consumers are changing and pop culture may be a big reason
Consumers are changing their eating habits, sometimes sparked by health restrictions and ethical reasoning, but misinformation is presenting farmers with their biggest struggle, said a University of Alberta professor. Dr. Timothy Caulfield told the crowd at the recent Canadian Centre for Food Integrity Food System Forum Series, that there is a breakdown in trust happening […] Read more
Dairy farmers find opportunity in organic
At the 2019 South Western Ontario Dairy Symposium two farmers shared why they decided to transition to organic dairy
John Brunsveld and Justin Bell found opportunities in the Ontario organic milk market, and they talked about it at the recent South Western Ontario Dairy Symposium. Brunsveld produces organic milk on his farm, milking 125 cows. Bell farms in Chatham-Kent and was accepted into the Organic New Entrant Quota Assistance Program and hopes to be […] Read more
Ways to live with narrower dairy profit margins
The gradual implementation of trade deals is expected to squeeze growth on dairy farmers as expenses increase
Dairy producers haven’t yet felt the implications of recent trade deals, but they will soon. “These deals have really not affected [the dairy producers] at all,” says Jack Rodenburg, with DairyLogix. But, he says producers will feel the impact this year and then the market will be affected, especially from 2020 to 2025. Rodenburg spoke […] Read more
Getting the most efficient nitrogen use
Soil testing is vital to identify where nitrogen is needed
A significant amount of nitrogen applied to fields is never taken up by plants. Understanding how much nitrogen (N) crops actually need can help decrease needless expenses and potential environmental issues. Why it matters: Nitrogen loss to the environment can damage local water sources causing human health concerns and harm to aquatic life. Inefficient fertilizer […] Read more
Seed placement is key to ensure highest yield potential
Uniform germination leads to uniform emergence and ultimately a uniform high-end yield potential
The farmer’s pass through the field with the planter is the pass that sets the yield, say planting experts. How the seed is planted and the conditions in which it is planted have a direct effect on the uniformity of the stand. Under ideal conditions these aspects lead to a greater yield. Why it matters: […] Read more
Ensuring optimal corn silage quality
Tips and tricks on proper storage of corn silage to reduce spoiling
The proper handling and storing of corn silage is one of the main drivers for increased milk production. Tony Hall with Lallemand Animal Nutrition in New York state outlined key points to ensiled forage at the recent 2019 Dairy Symposium put on by Grand Valley Fortifiers. Why it matters: Milk production directly relates to feed […] Read more
Whether you trust it or not, precision agriculture is here to stay
Many farmers continue not to use precision agriculture tools because of trust concerns and complexity challenges
Precision agriculture is designed to help growers obtain planting and harvest data, satellite imagery, drone images and soil data and bring that all together in a way that’s easy to use, says Andria Karstens with Climate Fieldview at the 2019 Precision Agriculture Conference and Ag Technology Showcase held recently in London. It’s great information in […] Read more
New drone flying regulations announced
Greater popularity of drone use has prompted changes to previous rules for flying them
Transport Canada recently released new rules governing the use of drones, which are expected to take effect June 1. These new regulations apply to Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) or “drones” that weigh 25 grams up to 25 kilograms and are flown within the pilot’s visual-line-of-sight. Why it matters: Drones are playing a significant role […] Read more
Niagara College modifying robot for Ontario grape production
Robot created to help better climate detection and disease identification from under the canopy
Michael Duncan, a research chair with Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, and his team are modifying a robot to help grape farmers detect climates within their vineyards, identify diseases and the crop stage for appropriate timing of harvest. Why it matters: Robots are capable of identifying factors in the environment and diseases […] Read more
Cyber-Savvy Farmer
