Saskatoons sought
Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon are seeking superior wild saskatoon plants to expand the collection and produce better cultivars for commercial fruit production.
They think farmers can help.
Annette Zatylny, a researcher with the Native Fruit Development Program, describes a superior saskatoon plant as one that consistently produces high yields of large fruit with good flavor. The plant must be vigorous and disease free, and wild or native as opposed to a named cultivar.
“Seedlings from these plants will be used for selecting new and improved saskatoon cultivars,” she said. “The donor will have the opportunity of naming any new cultivars that may originate from his or her bush.”
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Participants should collect up to one gallon of fruit from the superior bush, bag and box the fruit, and include their name, address, phone number and description of the plant’s superior characteristics.
The sample and information can be delivered to the department of horticulture science at the university, or shipped to the Native Fruit Development Program, Department of Horticulture Science, University of Saskatchewan, 51 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Sask., S7N 5A8.
Senders should also make a point of identifying the bush so it can be located later.
Seed growers honored
The Canadian Seed Growers’ Association honored 11 people earlier this month who have made significant contributions to Canada’s seed industry.
Named as Robertson’s Associates, for at least 15 years of pedigreed seed production and leadership, were Arthur S. Bolton, of Dublin, Ont.; Don Cox, of Fairview, Alta.; Abram E. Ens, of Winkler, Man.; Robert Graham, of Olds, Alta.; Roger J. Lee, of Stettler, Alta.; Larry Littman, of Saltcoats, Sask.; and Walter Pas-zkowski, of Sexsmith, Alta.
Named as honorary life members of the association were Keith G. Briggs, of Edmonton; Brian Fedak, of Winnipeg; N.K. Kinner, of Water Valley, Alta.; and Elwood Lawrence, of Regina.
The awards are given to people who have made or are still making outstanding contributions to the association and to Canadian agriculture.
Safe fuel storage
A free publication from Alberta Agriculture and United Farmers of Alberta provides details on safe farm fuel storage and handling.
Storing and Handling Fuel on the Farm includes descriptions of different types of storage tanks, lists ways of reducing spillage risks and explains how to establish emergency procedures.
John Chang, energy engineer with Alberta Agriculture, says the publication is partially a response to environmental legislation that has severe legal implications for those responsible for fuel leaks and spillage.
The booklet is available at all UFA petroleum agencies and all Alberta Agriculture district offices.
