New research shows some plants may be better able to rid themselves of pesticide residue than others. In 2006, Jing Quan Yu, with the Department of Horticulture at Zhejiang University in China, and his colleagues, began research to determine a method of reducing the amount of pesticide residues in crops. “Initially, we wanted to study […] Read more
Stories by Miranda Burski
Agricultural firms among ABEX winnners
Two agriculture-based businesses have been recognized by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce’s Achievement in Business Excellence (ABEX) Awards. Mustard Capital Inc. received the export award and Richardson International Ltd. received the award for investment. Mustard Capital, a mustard mill in Gravel-bourg, began operations in 2007 and exports to 15 countries. It is now targeting southeastern […] Read more
Vaccinate for parvovirus, vets urge dog owners
Veterinarians say they’ve been treating more parvovirus cases than usual this season. The canine disease has been making dogs sick for approximately 30 years, and Dr. Alain Fafard, a veterinarian at Furry Friends Animal Hospital in Saskatoon, said it isn’t unusual to see an occasional spike in cases. “It sort of waxes and wanes,” he […] Read more
Fruits of their labour unite family
ROSTHERN, Sask. – Living on an acreage with six children and nearly 2,000 fruit trees isn’t for everyone, but it’s a life Ron and Lavone Derksen wouldn’t give up for the world. “Earlier in our marriage, we hadn’t thought that we would ever build a house or anything like that,” said Ron, who co-owns an […] Read more
Regina Humane Society urges farmers to adopt furry friend
Farmers looking for love and companionship – and maybe some old-fashioned, tail-wagging happiness to boot – may want to check out the Regina Humane Society. “People in the rural area just don’t seem to understand that we have dogs that are suitable for everyone, farm stock as well,” said Gail MacMillan, director of communications at […] Read more
Home-ec involves more than sewing
Home economics has always involved far more than cooking and sewing. “The original intent was to look at problems that impact everyday people,” said Rhonda Breitkreuz, assistant professor of human ecology at the University of Alberta. Linda Ashley, vice-president of the Association of Saskatchewan Home Economists (ASHE), said everyone has issues regarding money, the environment […] Read more
Alpaca fibre sales down
The recession has been tough on the alpaca business. Rita Friesen, who raises alpacas near Saskatoon with her husband, Cam, on their CaRia Royalty Ranch, said profits are down from previous years because fewer people are buying their breeding stock and fibre products. Producer Deryl Ring of Ring Ranch Alpacas near Saskatoon agreed, but thinks […] Read more
Local solutions urged for international aid
The experiences of Canadian farmers might be able to make a huge difference in the lives of people in Africa. “(Farmers) are average citizens with special knowledge,” said Stephen Lewis, former United Nations special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa. Lewis said developing countries lack government funding for agriculture research and development. Canadian farmers can offset […] Read more
Funerals get horse-drawn option
Horses aren’t usually associated with funerals anymore, but Byron Haryung is trying to restore the connection. The former oil worker has spent five years planning his business, The Last Ride-Hooves to Heaven. He started with Clydesdale horses and a wagon, which was part of several funeral processions, including his grandfather’s. “I thought, well, I’ll get […] Read more
Orchard builders emphasize community
Carmen Dyck and Keith Jorgenson already produce a lot more than apples and berries at their orchard. They want to take it further still. “We’ve always envisioned doing something out there that involves the community,” said Dyck. Plans so far include a U-pick, a hedge maze and an old church they are renovating, which they […] Read more
