Young farmers proud to have farm of their own

BEAUSEJOUR, Man. – Ellen Gorter and Steven Boerchers have a lot of faith in the future of farming. “I’m passionate about this industry. I believe in it,” Gorter said as the couple’s 11-month-old daughter played and cooed happily in their kitchen. “We have to be committed to this because the banks won’t let us forget […] Read more

Seeding delays support grain futures over oilseeds

Grain futures will likely be stronger than oilseed futures for the next few weeks. Cool weather, a slow melt and wet fields are delaying seeding from Canada to the U.S. Midwest. There are implications for how much canola is seeded, but futures traders are mostly fixated on the big U.S. corn and soybean crops. Corn […] Read more

Experts use genomics in ‘arms race’ against rust

The mysteries of plant rust are being unraveled at the genetic level. Researchers are using genomics to understand this costly fungal disease that has plagued farmers around the world for centuries. “Rust is an old disease but it is a constantly evolving pathogen and that’s why we are interested in getting a better understanding of […] Read more



Government says public not ready for marijuana legalization

Q:Why isn’t marijuana legal and taxed? The government could make more revenue, and it isn’t as harmful as booze. What’s going on? A:This is a huge question, not only legal in nature. The answer lies with Canada’s Parliament. You have to assume laws are made by our elected officials because they reflect public feelings and […] Read more


Trade normal with Japan

Japan’s earthquake and nuclear crisis seem to have had little effect on its trade with Canada. “No, we haven’t seen any disruption in the pipeline,” said Lach Coburn, west coast manager for Cargill Ltd. “Fortunately, we didn’t have a lot of vessels heading to Japan at that particular time.” Most of Japan’s wheat and oilseed […] Read more

Farmers replacing fuel tanks for safety

It is a familiar sight across the Prairies. Dull grey fuel tanks teeter on weathered wooden stands or spindly metal stands at the edges of farmyards. Dark patches of spilled fuel stain the ground below the tanks, while a few dented oil cans are tossed under the tank along with red plastic fuel containers for […] Read more

Older farm implements ideal for organic system

They say one person’s trash is someone else’s treasure. A researcher says the same could be said for older farm equipment. And that is true for some older farm equipment that organic farmers could use, says University of Saskatchewan researcher Steve Shirtliffe. Shirtliffe said rod weeders, rotary hoes and Noble blades languishing in the back […] Read more


Enjoy get-togethers with sweet treats

We often hold gatherings in spring and summer to celebrate weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and family reunions. These occasions usually have a dessert table with a variety of slices and cakes. Three or four slices with a variation in taste and texture will give a nice selection. Lemon and chocolate flavours are among the favourites. I […] Read more

Fires planned for Sask. parks

Prescribed burns will take place in two Saskatchewan parks over the next couple of weeks. The burns are designed to help rejuvenate natural plant species by causing them to send up new shoots. Burning old vegetation also reduces wildfire threats. The burns are scheduled for Duck Mountain Provincial Park during the week of May 10 […] Read more