News Markets 6 Livestock 89 Production 44 Agri-finance 94 Farm living 97 Case New Holland will lay off 300 employees at its plant in Saskatoon. In a news release dated Oct. 23, CNH said the cuts were a “consequence of the continuing weakness of the economy and a need to align production with demand.” The […] Read more
Stories by Miranda Burski
Frustrations mount as vaccines run dry
Long lineups, vaccine shortages and the suspension of immunization clinics are frustrating western Canadians seeking immunity to the H1N1 flu virus. On Oct. 26, clinics in Alberta began administering H1N1 vaccinations to the general public but throughout the province, communities reported long lineups and insufficient doses of vaccine. By Oct. 31, the province announced it […] Read more
Some plants fight chemical toxicity
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
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
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
