Ongoing research suggests that recently developed full track skid steer loaders have load and mobility advantages over traditional wheel models. Track skid steer loaders are not to be confused with wheel skid steer loaders that have optional belt tracks covering the tires. The purpose-built track units can lift and carry heavier loads than wheel skid […] Read more
Stories by Meristem Land
Barley research brews profit for growers
Getting more malting barley selected is one of the surest ways to deliver more dollars into the pocketbooks of western Canadian grain growers. But this long-standing, value-added opportunity has been tough to bank on, with only 15 to 25 percent of malting barley production typically selected for malting. A key hurdle is the high level […] Read more
Sask. researchers study durum pigment
New research could help Canada develop a new generation of high pigment durum varieties to strengthen its position in top world markets. A study at the University of Saskatchewan’s Crop Development Centre aims to pinpoint the genes responsible for bright yellow pigment in durum, a trait that is desired by foreign markets. “This study will […] Read more
Crop rotation offers range of benefits
A properly managed crop rotation can yield many benefits, says an agronomist with Reduced Tillage in Lethbridge: good economics; improved soil conservation; lower-cost weed control and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. “With increased interest in zero tillage and continuous cropping, we’re finding a proper crop sequence is important to making the systems work,” Don Wentz said. […] Read more
New varieties fuel winter wheat boom
Winter wheat acreage is at a high level across the Prairies as producers take advantage of the yield improvements offered by new varieties. The 2003-04 crop year saw near-record winter wheat production, with approximately 700,000 seeded acres. “Winter wheat has really been a success story the past several years and we’re seeing more interest than […] Read more
Insects affect grazing habits
Biting and blood-sucking insects can have a powerful and often underestimated impact on cattle grazing behaviour and the health of rangelands. Studies in the United States and Canada have shown that during the grazing season, yearling cattle that are free from mosquitoes and biting flies gain 15-50 pounds more than heavily infested animals. Other studies […] Read more
