Strengthening environmental research
The federal government is reopening the Frelighsburg Experimental Farm in Quebec next year.
Research at the satellite site of the Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu Research and Development Centre will focus on the development of new, clean technologies to help protect Canada’s water and soil resources.
Researchers are expected to develop new techniques and tools in precision farming and crop management.
The research farm will also collect information on fruit varieties able to withstand extreme and unusual temperature fluctuations to help increase crop’s resiliency to climate change.
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Lethbridge Polytechnic receives major donation
Multimillion-dollar donation by Hranac family aids Lethbridge Polytechnic’s research in integrated food production systems, irrigation science and post-harvest technology in Alberta
Technologies and methods developed from this research will help producers across the country continue to farm in an environmentally sustainable manner.
Canada Invests in youth summit
The federal government plans to invest up to $780,000 to 4-H Canada to host the 2017 Global 4-H Network Summit in Ottawa in July.
The four-day event is also expected to feature workshops and a trade show focusing on education and career opportunities.
Ottawa has also increased the amount available under Farm Credit Canada’s Young Farmer Loan.
FCC will double the amount of credit available to young farmers to $1 million from $500,000 and lower the possible minimum down payment to 20 percent on the purchase or improvement of farmland and buildings.
Nominations for equine excellence awards
Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Horse Federation are asking for nominations for the awards of distinction for equine welfare.
Nominations for individuals, organizations and companies will be accepted until Feb. 19. Award recipients are expected to be honoured March 4 during the federation’s annual general meeting in Saskatoon.
Nominations are sought for four categories:
- Equine Welfare Innovation — Award of Distinction
- Equine Welfare Young Steward of the Future — Award of Distinction
- Young Steward Award
- Equine Welfare Leadership — Award of Distinction
- Leadership Award
- Equine Welfare Communication and Education — Award of Distinction
- Communication and Education Award
Nomination forms and further details are available at saskhorse.ca/farm-and-food-care and farmfoodcaresk.org/events.
Dairy farmers elect chair
Tom Kootstra was recently elected as chair of Alberta Milk.
Heini Hehli continues in the role of vice-chair and Gezinus Martens has been selected second vice-chair.
The trio of have served for years on the board of directors, as well as various specialized committees.
Kootstra owns and operates Stradow Farms near Ponoka where the family operation has a herd of 145 Holstein cows.
FCC contributes to 4-H
The Farm Credit Canada 4-H Club Fund has contributed $122,750 to 253 4-H clubs across Canada.
The fund is part of FCC’s annual $250,000 contribution to 4-H Canada, which supports national, provincial and local 4-H initiatives.
The FCC 4-H Club Fund awards up to $500 for projects such as achievement days, horse clinics, field trips, public speaking workshops and equipment purchases. The next application period opens in fall 2017.
To view the list of recipients,go to fcc.ca/4-H.
