close up of calf in a corral, spring 2025. Photo: Janelle Rudolph

Metagenomics change how disease is diagnosed

Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan use the technique to identify disease through bacteria, pathogens and viruses

The study of genetic material from environmental samples has changed the way crops are bred, disease is addressed and animal’s genetic makeup understood.




The Environmental Farm Plan was created in Ontario and has been expanded across the country.

Environmental Farm Plan updated

An updated Environment Farm Plan (EFP) will be available to Ontario farmers starting July 14, 2025. The updated edition reflects current regulatory requirements and latest science on best management practices, includes links to new tools and new areas of focus like biodiversity and farming in a changing climate, the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association […] Read more


Travis Cranmer, a vegetable crop specialist at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, explains the early results of his three-year Ontario trial suggesting that August planting improves garlic survival and increases producer opportunities at the Garlic Growers Association of Ontario annual general meeting and field day, June 7 2025. Photo by Diana Martin

Research challenges traditional garlic planting parameters

A three-year Ontario trial suggests that planting as early as August improves garlic survival, challenges traditional planting timelines, and increases producer opportunities.

A three-year Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness trial suggests that planting as early as August improves garlic survival, challenges traditional planting timelines, and increases Garlic Growers Associaton of Ontario producer’s opportunities.