Regulations on gene editing of animals are contributing to negative public perceptions of the technology and stifling innovation in the livestock sector, according to Alison Van Eenennaam of the University of California, Davis. A veteran science communicator and cooperative extension specialist in animal genomics and biotechnology, her professional and personal experience led her to believe […] Read more
Genetic editing in livestock faces strong headwinds
University of California, Davis professor says lack of acceptance of gene editing stifles potential gains in livestock sector
Climate anxieties shape consumer demands
Agriculture and food sector faces “new reality,” according to food marketing firm Nourish
Failure to act on the climate and personal health anxieties of Canadians could be a “brand breaker” for businesses in the farm and food sector, according to the 2022 consumer trend report from Nourish Food Marketing. Its authors argue that the coming year will see competing generational perspectives and shifting preferences in a post-pandemic reality. […] Read more
Supplementing — not replacing — large tractors with autonomy
There are opportunities for small robots on small grain farms
There is ample opportunity for robots on small farms if prices can fit with lower economies of scale. That philosophy is the driving force behind Maryland-based ag-tech start-up Easton Robotics. According to founder and chief executive officer Jeff Chandler, however, the idea that small farmers will replace their big tractors with autonomous vehicles, or use […] Read more
Ag-sector at high risk of cyber attacks, espionage
Digital security must keep pace with increasing vulnerability, advise experts
The risk of cyber attacks on agricultural businesses is ever-present and that risk might be increasing. According to Andrew Rose, digital security expert and executive director for CyberAg, an American cybersecurity organization, companies across the farm and food sector should take a more proactive approach to protecting vital electronic systems and all the information they […] Read more
Ag-tech in 2021: Where to go from here?
There are advances and challenges for equipment developers
Improvements in autonomy and artificial intelligence (AI), as well as persistent adoption barriers, characterized much of the ag-tech sector in 2021. During a Nov. 10 Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show event, Glacier FarmMedia technology reporters Scott Garvey, Robin Booker and Ron Lyseng described the areas where developers are succeeding, where they’re falling short, and how new […] Read more
Reduced fertilizer emissions possible through incentives
Better application technology, more widespread 4R management and better understanding of nutrient availability are vital
Major reductions in fertilizer-based greenhouse gas emissions are possible through 4R nutrient management, according to research from the University of Guelph. However, such reductions require growers to understand what nutrients are already present in soil, what portion is likely to be available for crops in the growing season and the significance of overapplication. Support for […] Read more
Rain helps alleviate grain storage space crunch
Perceived storage crisis less severe than initially expected
Elevators and grain buyers have wet weather to thank for some relief when it comes to grain storage availability. Despite a variety of storage and transportation challenges, elevator operators say they have not had to turn farmers away as wasfeared in late summer. Why it matters: Though space is still tight, elevator operators say the […] Read more
Saving the mid-sized farm
Policy paper suggests altering institutions to offset cost burdens could support smaller farms without harming larger ones
Statistics Canada data indicates the number of mid-sized farms continues to decrease while comparatively large and very large farms gain in size and number. According to analysts at the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute, a Guelph-based agricultural economics think-tank, the trend poses risks for the sector as a whole. The question is: what could stop the […] Read more
Labour challenges impact machinery and parts supply
John Deere strike could add further delays to already backlogged equipment sector
The first half of 2021 saw varied availability of equipment parts. While the supply of blades and bolts has improved since, a labour strike at John Deere threatens to exacerbate other lingering supply chain problems. Entering its fifth week at the time of publication, and with the union rejecting a recent agreement, the strike at […] Read more
Lowering livestock methane through heritable microbes
Breeding programs based on microbial DNA could help meet climate targets faster
Methane-reducing feed ingredients and emissions-focused breeding programs have the potential to significantly reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emitted by livestock. For the latter, however, new research from Scotland’s Rural College highlights opportunities for breeders to focus on the DNA of an animal’s gut bacteria, not just DNA and methane production levels of the animal […] Read more
Cyber-Savvy Farmer
