Extending Grazing Season Through PC Rye in South West not Conclusive

source: Farm and Food Report

In agronomy, as in anything else, often you just don’t know until you try.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Dr. Alan Iwaasa and his colleagues wanted to evaluate the feasibility of using perennial cereal (PC) rye and spring planted spring and winter triticale intercrop as a way to improve pasture yields, distribution and animal performance, and to extend the grazing season compared to Russian wildrye.

They also wanted to evaluate the influence that agronomic practices, such as grazing and haying, have on forage production, persistence and economic returns.

“In the South West, we struggle with issues of winter hardiness and stand persistence,” Dr. Iwaasa says. “Perennial cereal rye has been developed as a forage crop, with the hope that it could be grazed for three to four years before it had to be reseeded and become the variety that would allow cattle producers to get that much more growth out of their pastures.”

The real question was: how would it hold up to local growing conditions? Dr. Iwassa’s study was conducted on six pastures at the Semiarid Prairie Agricultural Research Centre (SPARC) near Swift Current.

“The study took place between 2001 and 2004. It turned out to be quite a challenge. We had a drought in 2001. We also had a wet year. In the end, results showed that PC rye’s ability to establish itself on dryland conditions and survive over winter in southwest Saskatchewan is very dependent upon seeding date. We just don’t get that great a snow cover in this part of the province.”

Planting PC rye in mid-August or early September may ensure maximum winter hardiness, while planting in mid-July may significantly lower winter hardiness.

The fact remains that agronomic and economic results do not support the use of PC rye as an alternative pasture source in place of annual cereal or perennial grass production systems in southwestern Saskatchewan.

“Now we know. The unfortunate thing is that we did not have that information before. We had to go through the research process. We now move to other aspects. With the inability of PC rye to consistently provide three to four years of production and the uncertainty with its ability to handle grazing stresses, there is the need for further evaluation and research before this forage crop can be recommended for use in southwest Saskatchewan in place of other forage sources.”

For more information, contact:

Dr. Alan Iwaasa
Semiarid Prairie Agricultural Research Centre (SPARC)
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
(306) 778-7251

Canada-Saskatchewan Irrigation Diversification Centre (CSIDC) Annual Field Day to Look at Past, Present and Future of Irrigation

source: Farm and Food Report

Embracing the “Wealth from Water — Past, Present and Future” theme, the Canada-Saskatchewan Irrigation Diversification Centre (CSIDC) Annual Field Day and Trade Show promises quite an experience this year on July 14 in Outlook.

John Linsley is Manager of Irrigation Development at Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.

“We will focus on the past to celebrate the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration’s (PFRA) 70th anniversary year. The CSIDC, Gardiner Dam, Lake Diefenbaker and 26 reservoirs in the South West are all part of those 70 years of creating wealth from water.”

In exploring the present, the CSIDC Field Day will also show how high value irrigated cropping practices continue to create wealth from water. Guests will be able to take in the trade show “under the tent,” where agri-businesses, industry and public sector support organizations will have displays.

On the tour, irrigation technology projects will include various irrigation systems and a solar powered centre-pivot, as well as trickle irrigation demonstrations.

“New improved potato varieties will be viewed, including agronomic refinements for seed, processing, and table potato production. High-value vegetables are also part of the program, including tips for season extension to grow warm season veggies. There will be stops at the native fruit orchard, and strawberry crown production will also be looked at.”

The visit will include a study of medicinal and aromatic plants, as well as agronomic refinements for commercial production.

“On other fronts, corn production for grain and silage; pulse crops like dry bean, field pea, soybean; forages featuring timothy improvement and management; and best management practices for forage production, mixed forages and annual cereal forages like barley, oat and Triticale will also be looked at.”

Oilseeds such as canola, flax, sunflower; and cereals, which will include various market classes of wheat, will also be featured.

Looking to the future, the Field Day will take a look at Saskatchewan Agrivision Corporation’s 50-Year Water Plan for Saskatchewan, according to Linsley.

“The Action Committee on the Rural Economy (ACRE) recommended that Saskatchewan adopt an aggressive policy towards irrigation development, that both expands utilization of the current irrigation system and looks at further development in order to open new areas for diversified agricultural growth.

“In the same vein, the Canada Saskatchewan Water Supply Expansion Program is funding irrigation infill and expansion feasibility studies. As water becomes more precious, future water needs are becoming more pressing. This is where the CSIDC comes in.”

The CSIDC is a partnership between the provincial and federal governments and irrigation industry farmers seeking crop diversification, new production efficiencies and avenues for the betterment of agricultural irrigation practices in Saskatchewan.

For more information, contact:

John Linsley
Manager of Irrigation Development
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 867-5527

Biodiesel Likely to Fuel More Vehicles in the Future

source: Farm and Food Report

It may be a small step, but it is a significant one.

Saskatchewan Premier Lorne Calvert’s “Dialogue with Saskatchewan” bus will operate on a biodiesel blend during the annual tour of Saskatchewan, thanks to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, Milligan Biotech, and Fleet Challenge Saskatchewan.

Fleet Challenge Saskatchewan is an offspring of Fleet Challenge Canada, a national program that encourages continuous improvement in energy efficiency and emissions reduction, through partnerships with organizations committed to reducing greenhouse gases from on-road transportation fleets.

Dave Kutcher is Manager of Fleet Challenge Saskatchewan.

“The program receives core funding from Natural Resources Canada, and encourages fleets – such as the Crown fleets of SaskPower, SaskTel, SaskEnergy, Saskatchewan Transportation Company, the cities of Regina, Moose Jaw and Saskatoon and, provincial government departments such as Saskatchewan Property Management Corporation, Environment and, Highways and Transportation to make changes and reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

“Biodiesel is an easy means to reduce GHG emissions, with additional benefits such as better lubricity, high cetane and virtually no sulphur.”

Initiatives are also being targeted at the school bus fleets and forestry hauling operations in the Province.

John Buchan is Bio Products Co-ordinator at Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.

“The recently created Biodiesel Development Task Force is mandated to develop and provide recommendations to the Government of Saskatchewan for the development of the biodiesel industry, and to determine the current status of the biodiesel industry and its potential for the province.

“The Task Force wants to engage in initiatives that would further the industry, and one way we identified to do that is to demonstrate the use of biodiesel fuel within the province. So, SAF provided a grant to Fleet Challenge Saskatchewan to demonstrate biodiesel in the Premier’s bus.”

Biodiesel can be made from canola oil, although it could also be made from mustard oil or any vegetable oil, or even animal fat. Milligan Biotech of Foam Lake and Saskatoon Diesel Services are two Saskatchewan companies currently looking to develop biodiesel production, according to Buchan.

Research funded by Western Economic Diversification, the Saskatchewan Canola Development Commission and the Saskatchewan Canola Growers Association at the University of Saskatchewan measured fuel economy, engine wear and performance with biodiesel, and provided encouraging results.

Tests conducted with City of Saskatoon transit vehicles have shown a definite improvement in fuel efficiency, largely because biodiesel increases lubricity, resulting in lower friction within the engine. We can expect to see more biodiesel in the future, thanks to this initiative.

Fleet Challenge Canada, primarily funded by Natural Resources Canada, is a two-and-a-half year program spearheaded by the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance – Transport, with five participating provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario and Quebec.

Fleet Challenge Saskatchewan is delivered by the Saskatchewan Office of Energy Conservation.

For more information, contact:

Dave Kutcher
Fleet Challenge Saskatchewan
(306) 545-1434

John Buchan
Bio Products Co-ordinator
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 787-5687

East Central Pasture Week Brings Sound Ideas

source: Farm and Food Report

Nothing beats seeing for yourself how other producer groups do it.

With this in mind, three of East Central Saskatchewan’s most forward thinking pasture initiatives will be on display for interested producers from July 18 to 20 in the region.

Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food (SAF) Livestock Agrologist Naomi Paley is one of the organizers of East Central Pasture Week.

“In essence, this will be our second annual pasture week, which will consist of three consecutive days of half-day pasture field days held throughout the East Central region. The days are a combined effort between SAF, the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority, Ducks Unlimited and the Technical Assistance Component of the Greencover Program.”

These events are also made possible with the co-operation of local producer groups at each of the field day sites. Rotational grazing systems will be on display, and all topics pertinent to pasture management will be covered at each of the sites.

“The main focus of the pasture week is to promote better awareness among local producers regarding some best management practices when dealing with livestock in a pasture situation,” says Paley.

On July 18, participants will be able to take in the District 13 ADD Board Pasture, located five miles east of Esterhazy on Highway 22, then south on Hazel Cliff road for four miles, and east for a mile.

On July 19, activities will take place at the Beaverdale Beef Club Pasture, 23 miles west of Yorkton on Highway 52 and six miles south on the Fenwood grid road.

On July 20, the Sunrise Cattle Corporation Pasture will be featured, 24 miles east of Yorkton on Highway 10 to Wroxten and 6.5 miles south on Highway 80.

“This is a community cow-calf herd, which is fairly unique,” explains Paley. “A group of producers have purchased a uniform type of cattle and are working towards eventually finishing their own calves and marketing directly to a slaughtering plant. So, they are working together strategically.”

In addition, the three days are being used as an invitation to producers from out province—namely Alberta—to come to the region and check out what Saskatchewan has to offer to the livestock industry.

“The Last Cattle Frontier group has been working to attract ranchers to the East Central region for four years now. They have sent out over 200 invitations to the Pasture Week to contacts they have made in Alberta over the past several years. This effort is really about following up with some of the people who showed interest in moving to the East Central region and offering them a chance to come out to see what the land, the people and the communities are all about.”

For more information on the Last Cattle Frontier, visit: www.lastcattlefrontier.

To find out more about the East Central Saskatchewan Pasture Week, call (306) 786-1509.

For more information, contact :

Naomi D. Paley, BSA, Pag
Livestock Development Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 786-1509

Zero Till Crop Field Day Promises Range of Demonstrations

source: Farm and Food Report

The Indian Head Agriculture Research Foundation (IHARF) is getting ready to put on one of its most diversified offerings yet on July 19, to celebrate zero till practices once again through a number of research plot tours.

Judy McKell is a spokesperson for the group.

“We will have tours at the Indian Head experimental farm and at other sites off the farm, as well, where participants will have a chance to compare the impact of zero till crop management practices on long-term plots, as well as on shorter term sites, so they can look at the differences in factors like soil quality.”

On-site tours will include briefings by Dr. Guy Lafond on winter wheat agronomy, post-emergent nitrogen studies and the effect of legumes in rotation on nitrous oxide emissions. Bill May of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) will share findings on oilseeds adaptations and minor use trials, while Dr. Grant McLeod, also of AAFC, will provide an update on rye varieties and the ecological variety development of native grasses.

Off-site tours will include interpretations by the University of Saskatchewan’s Dr. Jeff Schoenau on the benefits of long-term zero tillage on soil quality. AAFC’s Eric Johnson will discuss approaches to long-term management of Canada thistle and dandelion, and IHARF’s Hilary Hunter will comment on the effects of zero tillage on nitrous oxide emissions.

“Keep in mind that this field day is accredited for continuing education credits toward the Certified Crop Advisor program,” McKell points out.

This year’s Field Day is actually a joint event held in collaboration with the Canaryseed Association of Canada.

Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food’s Ray McVicar speaks for the organization.

“We will use the event to update growers about the proposed canaryseed check-off at a meeting in the afternoon, and we will visit some of the plots and get the latest information on canaryseed research prior to that, with Bill May among others. We certainly welcome this field day opportunity at Indian Head.”

The field day starts with registration form 8:00 to 9:00 a.m., and the cost is $25. Please pre-register by July 15.

For more information about IHARF or to register for the Zero Till Crop Management Field Day, call IHARF at (306) 695-4200 or visit: www.iharf.ca.

For more information, contact:

Judy McKell
Indian Head Agricultural Research Foundation
(306) 695-4200

Ray McVicar
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 787-4665

Borden's Delloy Pasta Makes Old-Fashioned Mennonite Noodles

source: Farm and Food Report

Charmaine and Bill Golding had been busy farming half a mile north of Borden, until Charmaine’s aunt and uncle introduced them to the pasta business in 2000.

“They had been making and selling pasta for five years,” explains Bill, “and they wanted to sell us the business. Charmaine’s family had a Mennonite background. This was a homemade-type pasta—as close to the original Mennonite taste as can be, according to a local expert on the matter.”

Bill and Charmaine thus acquired Prairie Pasta, and turned the company into Delloy Pasta, a home-based, family-operated business that makes great tasting, old-fashioned egg noodles.

If you enjoyed the homemade noodles that your grandmother used to make, you'll love this pasta. They make six different products.

“Our most popular is a fine noodle, great for chicken noodle soup from scratch, or for spaghetti dishes. We also make a broad noodle, used for casseroles, and also for soups. Kielke, a special German noodle, is a favourite for some. We make two kinds of pre-packaged, family-size soups. These come with seasoning, and no MSG is added.”

The original owners perfected the recipes, according to Bill.

“They mentored us through the process. We buy all our durum flour from stores, and we operate out of a portable classroom at the farm. Our products are sold in approximately 60 stores, nursing homes and restaurants, or they can be purchased directly from us. They are available for fundraisers, as well.”

Business is booming, and things are about to change significantly for Bill and Charmaine.

“The town wanted us to set up a shop in Borden,” explains Bill. “We acquired a lot in town right on the Yellowhead Highway - we’ll have great visibility. They made us an offer we couldn’t refuse. The foundations have already been poured and the building should be framed by July 15. In theory, by the end of August, we should be all set up and ready to go as a Saskatchewan Made store, plus a pasta plant.”

This is a big move for them and their product. Prior to this, they made the pasta, dried it on the drying rack, and packaged it on another table in 454-gram bags in the portable classroom at the farm.

“Now we will also sell other products made by members of the Saskatchewan Food Processors Association. We are also developing a microwaveable pasta dish with Alfredo sauce. We learned to make it by trial and error when we prepared samples for the trade shows we attended. Our customers told us we should also sell the sauce. We listened,” admits Bill.

Delloy Pasta is on a roll. He loves it.

“We make the deliveries to our retailers ourselves. We have developed a route in and around Saskatoon. We also ship throughout the province by bus. Hockey, soccer and skating clubs love the product for fundraising. We even have a yacht club in British Columbia among our clients.

“You see, I used to work in a bank during the 1970s. I missed the contact with the people. We have met some great storeowners since we started in this business. We start work very early in the morning—around 5:00 a.m. - and we work six to seven days a week, but now we wouldn’t do anything else. The best thing is that this is something we can do together, Charmaine and I.”

For more information, contact:

Bill Golding
Delloy Pasta
(306) 997-2227

Seager Wheeler's Canola Day to Have Biodiesel Theme

source: Farm and Food Report

The 2005 edition of Canola Day at Seager Wheeler National Historic Farm on July 7^th promises to bring all guests up to speed not only in terms of canola production, but also in terms of its potential as biodiesel fuel, according to Farm Manager Brian Weightman.

“Biodiesel is attracting a lot of attention because of its potential as a clean burning alternative fuel, produced from domestic renewable resources. It contains no petroleum, but it can be blended at any level with petroleum diesel to create a biodiesel blend. It can be used in compression-ignition or diesel engines with little or no modifications.”

Biodiesel is simple to use, biodegradable, nontoxic, and essentially free of sulfur and aromatics. It is better for the environment because it is made from renewable resources, and has lower emissions compared to petroleum diesel. It is less toxic than table salt and biodegrades as fast as sugar.

Canola Day will feature a presentation on the topic, as well as a field tour of some of the plots used for research on oil and oil content.

The topics will also include: timing of canola swathing, economic thresholds of diseases in canola, economic threshold of insects in canola, and seeding trends with seeding comparatives of 13 of the latest direct seeding tools.

“We will have industry people on hand to elaborate on these subjects and issues. They will talk about new developments and different maturity requirements of canola varieties, as timing is so crucial to maximizing financial returns on investment, given the current price paid for canola on the world market.”

The host site for Canola Day is a farm that is being restored to its condition of 1919. At this farm, Seager Wheeler grew the grain that won him five different World Wheat Championships between 1911 and 1918. During Canola Day, attendees can visit the restored Seed Cleaning Plant and see the equipment - some of it built by Mr. Wheeler - restored to operating condition, as well as learn about cropping innovation in modern agriculture, including direct seeding.

For more information on Canola Day, call (306) 232-5959.

For more information, contact:

Brian Weightman
Farm Manager
Seager Wheeler Farm National Historic Site
(306) 232-5959

Insecticide Applications Warrant Special Health Precautions

source: Farm and Food Report

As the crop season progresses, the number of pest control products or pesticides applied by those farmers who choose to use them increases, according to Saskatchewan Provincial Pest Control Specialist Cameron Wilk.

“Intensified growth means more crop management concerns. Pesticides are an umbrella category that can be further broken down according to the end use for which they are developed. Herbicides are the most common pesticide in Saskatchewan —helping crop producers manage weed populations.”

Foliar fungicides target fungal pathogens. Seed treatments are another type where the seed itself is treated to prevent plant diseases. Rodenticides manage rodent populations, while insecticides target insect infestations. Pesticide users should bear in mind that variety in the range of pesticide applications is accompanied by a corresponding range of safety concerns, Wilk points out.

“In general terms, herbicides are a relatively safe, low risk type of pesticide, while certain rodenticides and insecticides are higher risk pesticides. Compounding these risks, the amount of insecticides applied in any one season is highly variable, depending on a number of conditions that influence insect outbreaks.”

For instance, orange wheat blossom midge, bertha armyworm, diamondback moth, grasshoppers and aphids all have the potential to become a concern every year. Correspondingly, Lorsban, Pyrinex, Monitor and Eco Bran are common trade names of insecticides that may then be applied to eliminate these insects. These are organophosphorus and/or carbamate insecticides. Exposure to these chemical substances can cause adverse effects on the cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) or hematopoietic (blood) systems.

Decis and Ripcord are common pyrethroid insecticides with their own unique safety concerns. Exposure to these chemical substances can affect the endocrine system, which is comprised of the organs and glands that secrete hormones.

“Each of these insecticides may be rapidly absorbed through the skin, lungs and gut,” explains Wilk. “Their acute toxic affects may be noticed within minutes or hours, depending on the exposure. Farmers or commercial pesticide applicators who are exposed to a number of small doses over the course of a growing season may quickly develop toxic symptoms due to the cumulative effect of each exposure.”

The organophosphorus and carbamate insecticides will influence the nervous system by inhibiting the enzyme cholinesterase, which is necessary for the proper functioning of the central nervous system. Signs and symptoms from overexposure are similar and may vary in severity for products in the same chemical family.

“Organophosphorus and carbamate insecticide symptoms may resemble influenza, while pyrethroid insecticide symptoms may cause asthmatic reactions, eye or respiratory tract irritation, along with skin sensitization.

“It is very important to be informed before undertaking the application of insecticides or entering into areas treated with insecticides for monitoring purposes. There are easy ways to learn about the safe use of any insecticide or other agricultural chemical,” adds Wilk.

Users should read the product or container label, as it shows the name of the product and the company that manufactured it, along with a mention that a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is available. It will also include hazard symbols; brief risk information; precautionary and first aid measures.

Chemical suppliers are required by law to provide the MSDS information sheet upon request for any product they sell. An MSDS gives detailed information about the chemical and its ingredients, health hazards, first aid measures, fire-fighting measures, accidental release measures, handling and storage instructions, and recommended personal protective equipment.

The use of personal protective equipment plays a significant role in mitigating the risks associated with insecticide application. Local farm supply dealers stock some personal protective equipment. Suppliers are always listed under “Industrial Equipment and Supplies” or “Safety” in the yellow pages of your telephone directory. To search on-line, enter “Canadian suppliers of personal protective equipment ” into your search engine’s subject box.

“Applicators who are buying a chemical cartridge respirator should shop around to be sure they get a good facial fit and the right cartridge for the job,” Wilk recommends. “The use of gauntlet-style PVC gloves; goggles; chemical-resistant hard hats and PVC aprons; disposable Tyvek coveralls and tractor cab-filter may also be advisable.”

The best safety tool when working with pesticides is water. Keep a tank of clean water available in the field or on your equipment when applying pesticides. Use it for handwashing or for washing yourself in the case of a spill or a splash. If chemicals get on your skin or in your eyes, flush immediately with water.

Proper protection against chemicals is worth the time and expense, as it helps avoid the short-term and more serious long-term health problems that any pesticide may cause. For more information, contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

For more information, contact:

Cameron Wilk
Provincial Pest Control Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 787-2195

New Findings on Grazing Annual Spring Cereals

source: Farm and Food Report

It was a question for which there was no definite answer.

Should livestock producers grow annual cereals for feed and graze their cattle throughout the season, or should they just grow the cereals to the milk or soft dough stage, cut them and swath graze or bale them?

Now, Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food has the answer. “There is more dry matter yield per acre in waiting to the soft dough stage before cutting. For years, we didn’t know the answer. We assumed it amounted to more or less the same yield,” Rangeland and Forage Agrologist Lorne Klein says.

In the summer of 2003, simulated grazing forage yields were collected from the Cool Season and Warm Season Annuals Forage Trial plots at Redvers and Indian Head. Annual spring cereals, which are seeded in spring, are one of the forage options available to livestock producers.

“Generally, there are two methods of harvesting a spring seeded spring cereal,” explains Klein. “Either the crop can be grazed in the vegetative stage two to four times during the summer, or the crop can be allowed to develop to the milk/soft dough stage and cut once. After cutting, the windrow can be baled, chopped for silage, or left in the field for swath grazing.”

Producers have questioned whether the cumulative dry matter yield of multiple grazing is similar to the single cut dry matter yield at the milk/soft dough stage. Saskatchewan research comparing dry matter yields of the two harvest options was not available. Research from Alberta from 1981-1983 had shown that simulated grazing yields are significantly less than single cut yields.

Research conducted in Saskatchewan in 2003 showed that simulated grazing yield of the cool season crops (oats, barley) averaged 59 per cent of the single cut greenfeed yield. Further to that, the simulated grazing yield of the warm season crops (Golden German, Siberian Red, Strain R German, White Wonder) averaged 51 per cent of the single cut greenfeed yield.

Tests were conducted again in 2004. Results indicated that simulated grazing of cool season crops yielded 50 per cent of the single cut at the milk/soft dough stage, while simulated grazing of warm season crops yielded 45 per cent of the single cut.

“We found that there was considerably less dry matter yield in the simulated multiple grazing plots, whereas on the plots where we waited an extra 35 days before harvesting the cereals, the yield far outweighed that.”

Klein believes producers are going to think twice about seeding annuals to graze their cattle in the future.

Given the magnitude of the differences, producers wishing to graze annuals should consider allowing the crop to reach the greenfeed stage, and then windrow and swath graze.

Of course, harvesting costs and feed quality of simulated grazing and greenfeed need to be factored against the expected yield differences.

For more information, contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

For more information, contact:

Lorne Klein
Rangeland and Forage Agrologist
(306) 848-2382

Better Farming Through Environmental Farm Planning

source: Farm and Food Report

Identifying management practices that help reduce environmental risks in agricultural operations is made more accessible with the recently unveiled Environmental Farm Plan Program, according to Shelanne Wiles Longley, Coordinator for Saskatchewan at the Provincial Council of Agriculture Development and Diversification Boards (PCAB).

“Environmental Farm Plans (EFP) are voluntary, confidential, self-assessment tools used by agriculture producers to raise awareness about and identify environmental risks and opportunities on their operation. As part of their EFP, producers will develop their own action plans with technical advice and assistance offered under the provisions of the national Agricultural Policy Framework.”

Every province has its own EFP initiative. In Saskatchewan, the Provincial Council of ADD Boards will deliver the EFP program.

“The creation of EFPs involves two workshops and a peer review,” explains Wiles Longley. “We contracted 11 facilitators, all people who are directly related to agriculture. Participants are provided with a workbook to carry out a self-assessment for their operation’s strengths and weaknesses. The producers then develop a management action plan to identify management practices that help minimize environmental risks.”

The self-assessment is completed at home. Once completed, producers attend the second workshop, where the action plan is finalized before going to peer review for endorsement.

“Once their EFP has been endorsed, agricultural producers become eligible for funding to implement actions identified in their plan through the Canada Saskatchewan Farm Stewardship Program that is administered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). Another benefit is that it gives the producer a renewed awareness of environmental issues, while promoting environmental stewardship.”

Wiles Longley even sees advantages in terms of marketing of agriculture products, as consumers increasingly are concerned about how the food they eat is grown or raised.

“It adds to the prosperity and security which is crucial to agriculture’s success as an industry.”

Under the EFP program in Saskatchewan, about 600 producers have had plans endorsed and have therefore become eligible for funding, says Wiles Longley.

“We feel producers are responding well so far. The majority of producers genuinely feel that this is a good program — they truly are concerned about environmental practices in their operations. Overall, the attitude is very positive.”

Wiles Longley stresses that the process is a voluntary one, carried out in confidence. Every producer is assigned a unique ID number. Therefore, the only people who know the identity of participants are the facilitator and the producer himself or herself.

“Producers tend to engage in this process with a positive outlook, knowing that becoming more aware of the environmental issues will benefit their farms for the long term. That is sometimes the best selling feature,” concludes Wiles Longley.

For more information on the EFP Program, call (306) 955-5477 or visit the PCAB website at: http://www.saskpcab.com/efp.html

For more information, contact:

Shelanne Wiles Longley, A.Ag.
EFP Program Coordinator
Provincial Council of ADD Boards
(306) 955-5477

Trust and Spirit of Partnership Key to Hay Shares that Work

source: Farm and Food Report

In today’s agricultural practices, a spirit of collaboration is sometimes what most increases efficiencies and contributes to mutual prosperity.

Established hay shares and the process that leads to them perhaps best illustrates this overarching principle.

Farmers often purchase standing hay from landowners because they need hay and have the equipment to cut it, while a landowner may have the standing hay but not the resources to bring it in.

The settlement may be made to the landowner as rent per acre or per ton, or the landlord may receive a share of the hay harvested. The settlement should relate to the quality of the hay, size of fields, yield per acre and condition of the field. Local market conditions are a primary factor in determining values.

The contributions approach, the cost approach and the income approach are procedures that can be used as guidelines to determine shares or a value for standing hay.

“The contributions approach recognizes the value that each participant provides,” says Richard Wharton, Production Economics Specialist with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food. “The land owner covers investment cost and taxes, and usually the reseeding and maybe the fertilizer. The operator provides the machinery, fuel, labour, repairs, etc. The hay produced is then divided in the same proportion as the contribution.

“In the case of the purchaser, this might mean things like the fuel costs, the use and maintenance of the machinery,” says Wharton. “From that list, a total percentage of respective contributions is established and used in determining shares or a value for standing hay.”

For instance, with a calculated contributions ratio of 35:65, the hay purchaser could supply 35 per cent of the hay to the landlord.

“These arrangements are fairly common and can range from 1/3 to1/2 going to the landlord.” explains Wharton, “and they should already be in place as the time for the first cut nears.”

Hay share partners are encouraged to put their agreement on paper in detail and to specify things like dates by which hay should be taken off the field in order to avoid interpretive differences on both sides.

“If the landowner wishes to be paid out for his share of the deal, the date of payment should also be specified in this document,” adds Wharton.

“If it is later in the season and the price of hay becomes known, cost can also be used to set up hay shares,” adds André Bonneau, Forage Conversion Specialist with SAF. “For example, if hay is valued at $60.00 per ton, the landlord would receive $21.00 per ton, which represents 35 per cent of $60.00. The two parties should also work in some kind of risk adjustment, and factor in perhaps five per cent to compensate in case it rains considerably on the swath.”

A sense of fairness and partnership should govern any hay shares arrangement. According to Richard Wharton, that is not always the case.

“If a landlord should get a share of the hay, both parties should ensure that quality of the hay is taken into account in order to avoid the landlord getting the hay that has been laying under rain after the operator has picked up and stacked his share. In principle, this might mean that every third bale goes out to the landowner. In practice, it might translate into a gentleman’s agreement to allocate hay fairly, which might also be stipulated in the agreement on paper.”

There are always lessons to learn when crafting agreements and entering into partnerships like the establishment of hay shares. Laying out clearly the respective contributions of both parties and the terms of the agreement is the best way to ensure their longevity.

For more information about hay shares, contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

For more information, contact:

Richard Wharton
Production Economics Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 694-3482

André Bonneau
Forage Conversion Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 694-3721

Forage Field Day Showcases Sustanability

source: Farm and Food Report

Prince Albert’s Conservation Learning Centre (CLC) has made a habit of featuring new developments on farm-scale soil and water conservation technology since 1993.

The CLC Forage Field Day on June 28 promises to be just as revealing, according to Manager Laurie Hayes.

“This is a research and demonstration facility used for the evaluation and applicability of new research and technology. The CLC is located on 800 acres of land (457 owned; 343 rented) 18 km south of Prince Albert in the Parkland Region of Saskatchewan. In addition to 600 acres of cultivated, annually cropped land, the CLC has areas dedicated to forage production, dense nesting cover, shelterbelts, a shelterbelt garden, a woodlot, riparian areas, herbs and a nature trail,” says Hayes.

“Every year, we have between 30 and 50 projects — some are long-term and some are annual. This year, we highlight new varieties that include new legumes and grasses, as well as turnips and corn for grazing.”

The new forage varieties featured include PC perennial rye, New Hy RS wheatgrass and switchgrass, for which the CLC is engaged in a collaborative ethanol straw fermentation project.

The CLC features rolling topography, wetlands and remnant native upland areas rather than the very uniform landscapes characteristic of most research facilities. Because of the variable topography and emphasis on field scale activities, many scientists from federal, provincial, university and private research institutions undertake work at the Centre.

As well, the CLC has continued strong support from 25 to 30 agencies and corporations that participate in demonstration and research activities on the farm.

“Our annual crop ‘projects’ are field scale, with the forage demonstrations smaller, usually less than 10 acres in size. We use the same type and size of agricultural equipment to do this as producers themselves. We direct seed all our forages into standing stubble, whereas other operations might prepare the land the old-fashioned way.”

The CLC hosts between three and nine tours annually for local, regional, provincial, national and international producers, researchers and industry representatives, as well as extension personnel.

“Our Forage Field Days targets mixed farmers and livestock producers. We will tour sites on and near the CLC farm, and the representatives of each initiative and crop variety can interpret their own findings to participants. We will also be having discussions on fertility and weed control in forages.”

The CLC has a plan to attract new attendees – consumers – to future field days, says Hayes. “For our Canola Field Day, a nutritionist will talk about the value of canola and flax products to our health – with samples on hand to taste as part of the exercise. Because our approach is very hands on, we find this is an excellent way to communicate with our audiences.”

The Conservation Learning Centre is part of the Agri-ARM (Applied Research Management) network supported by Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food. To find out more about the CLC and its activities, visit: http://www.conservationlearningcentre.com/index.html

For more information, contact:

Laurie Hayes
Manager, Saskatchewan Conservation Learning Centre
(306) 953-2796

Scouting for Early Season Insects a Must

source: Farm and Food Report

Scouting for potential insect problems early in the year is important, because plants are small and more vulnerable. But although field scouting for insects and other invertebrates is necessary because of the problems they entail in crop production, it can be difficult.

Scott Hartley is Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food’s Provincial Insect and Vertebrate Pest Specialist.

“In the spring, insects are smaller and often below the soil surface, where methods for determining population levels tend to be more labour intensive,” Hartley says. “First on my list would be the wireworm. These insects can be persistent pests in Saskatchewan crops, due to the considerable time required for wireworm larva or click beetles — the adults — to complete their life cycle.”

The young larvae are white, changing to a yellowish and tan or brown colour with age. The larval bodies are more “leathery,” compared to the thinner skin of moth or butterfly larvae like cutworms.

“Wireworms prefer cooler and moist soils and temperatures. They move up and down in the soil in response to temperature. They’re more destructive in the spring, when they are feeding near the soil surface and plants have less vegetative growth. They tend to be more abundant in lower, damper areas of a field. Damage usually consists of shredded plant tissue below the soil surface. Initially, this may show up as mortality to the main central leaves, but eventually it can kill the entire plant.”

Unfortunately, the most accurate method to determine wireworm populations is to sieve soil samples, a time consuming process. The presence of wilted plants is often the first indication of a problem. Damage is often not noted early enough to reseed and can be misdiagnosed. The only viable control option is the use of a seed treatment the following year.

Another problem pest is the cutworm. Reports of severe infestations have increased in the last few years, according to Hartley.

“Large patches — some in excess of 20 acres — have been reported in a number of areas of the province. Weedy areas are more prone to problems, as the adult moths look for green growth to lay their eggs. Hilltops and drier areas of the field also tend to have more cutworm problems.”

Damage is typically in the form of a cut stem, explains Hartley:

“When an affected plant is pulled, the root is seldom attached, and occasionally, damage can be seen on leaves that were chewed prior to emergence from the soil. Early in the growing season, the larvae are tiny and difficult to see. As they grow, damage will generally increase, since they are capable of consuming more vegetative tissue.”

In spring cereals, three to four cutworms per square metre is considered to be the economic threshold.

Hartley recommends applying an insecticide to the soil surface in the evening. When cutworms come to the surface to feed at that time, they come in contact with the chemical. It can take up to 10 days for best results, as not all larvae come to the surface on any given night. Some species of cutworms, such as the glassy cutworm, do not surface and are less affected by insecticides.

Hartley also has some news about flea beetles:

“Overall, flea beetle populations were lower last fall compared to previous years. This is the same generation that will be affecting canola and mustard this spring. If higher rates of seed treatments are used at seeding time, flea beetles are less likely to be a problem. However, if there is high flea beetle pressure and a low rate or no insecticide is used at seeding, monitoring is critical in case a foliar insecticide is required.”

The action threshold for initiating insecticide application is when 25 per cent of the leaf tissue is consumed.

“Cool temperatures result in less flea beetle activity and slower plant growth. Therefore, the seedlings remain vulnerable for a longer period. In addition, the beetles remain closer to the ground surface and in cracks in the soil. In 2004, it was noted that this habit resulted in girdling of the stem and feeding on the underside of cotyledons. When environmental conditions are more favourable, the upper surface of the leaf tends to be most affected and damage is more easily noted.”

When it comes to diamondback moths, Hartley notes that adult moths were observed and collected in late April in a broad region of the Prairies. The cool weather may have helped to reduce some of the adult moths, but it would still be prudent to monitor for larvae. Early season feeding on the growing point of canola or mustard will result in stunted growth or even plant death.

Adult moths continue to be found in significant numbers in some areas, suggesting that there is the potential for egg-laying and serious infestations in the upcoming weeks if environmental conditions are more favourable.

To find out more about the use of registered pesticides for various crops, please consult the 2005 Guide to Crop Protection available online at: http://www.agr.gov.sk.ca/docs/crops/cropguide00.asp or call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

For more information, contact:

Scott Hartley
Provincial Insect and Vertebrate Pest Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 787-4669

Sustainable Grazing in Forested Rangeland is Tricky

source: Farm and Food Report

Saskatchewan’s forested rangeland and forest support a large amount of cattle grazing.

However, forest grazing and logging are not the most compatible activities, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food Forage Development Specialist Todd Jorgenson.

“Around 20 to 25 per cent of our cattle herd is currently grazing in forested areas to some degree,” Jorgenson says. “This can be solid aspen forest or parkland that includes open prairie clearings. There is increased demand for poplar at the moment because of the pulp and paper industry and the resource needs of oriented strand board mills.”

This demand has resulted in companies harvesting poplar on forested rangelands in the provincial forest and on agriculture Crown leases.

“Livestock grazing can change a forested area’s plant composition and the quality of plant life. It can also have an effect on soil properties, water shed functioning and many wildlife species that depend on these areas.”

Healthy forested rangeland is essential to soil and water conservation, nutrient cycling, air quality and other ecosystem functions that directly or indirectly benefit everyone.

Jorgenson explains that uncontrolled cattle grazing on logged sites has raised questions about the effect of this combination of activities on aspen regeneration.

How the logged rangeland is managed and used for domestic livestock has a direct impact on other land uses.

“When you have clear-cut over a large forest grazing situation, the cattle tend to congregate over the cutover block. Keep in mind that young aspen suckers are a preferred food source for grazing livestock. Obviously, this raises a concern about the effect on tree regeneration.”

There are a number of methods for estimating range condition in forested communities. They all look at one or more of the following site conditions: understory composition; understory structure (height and density of grass, forb and shrub layers); overall productivity of palatable species; aspen regeneration itself; and litter levels on the forest floor.

According to Jorgenson, studies in Alberta and British Columbia have shown that cattle do have a negative impact on aspen regeneration, while other studies have found that grazing can be beneficial to regeneration because it removes competition between aspen plants.

“The bottom line is that research so far has been inconclusive.”

What is certain is that overgrazing has the potential to reduce or eliminate the palatable understory species from the shrub, grass and forb layers. And continued overgrazing can result in the establishment of invader species, exposure of soil, soil compaction and reduced water infiltration.

“Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, in cooperation with Saskatchewan Environment and the Saskatchewan research Council, will be looking at conducting a literature review and possibly field trials in the future to assess cattle impact on logged areas,” Jorgenson says. “The group will then make recommendations to better integrate these two land uses.”

The basic principles for management of forested rangeland are the same as those for native grassland. Planning and setting practical goals will provide a starting point for appropriate management practices.

For more information, contact:

Todd Jorgenson
Forage Development Specialist, Forest Grazing/Ecology
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 786-5859

Agricultural Hall of Fame Features Cream of the Crop

source: Farm and Food Report

The longer one lives in this beautiful province, the more one appreciates how intimately linked to agriculture our communities are.

These linkages are often highlighted by the accomplishments of a few individuals. Fortunately, there is a place where these contributions have been celebrated since 1972.

The Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame (SAHF), located at the Western Development Museum in Saskatoon, is the initiative of a few dedicated individuals such as Regina’s Gary Carlson.

“I was Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Federation of Agriculture at the time and, while the idea of a Hall didn't originate with me (a Canadian Hall of Fame had been established earlier in Toronto, I contacted a diverse group of Saskatchewan agricultural industry representatives in 1970 to plan such an organization.”

Saskatoon’s Jack Braidek is a member of the Board of Directors.

“I have been involved with the Hall of Fame for 10 years,” Braidek says. “I am a retired agrologist with an interest in celebrating agricultural milestones. The Hall of Fame honours and shares with the public the actions of those people — our inductees — who did these extra special things that turned out to be extraordinary contributions in agriculture and toward rural living.”

The Hall of Fame celebrates people like John Henry Wesson. His citation notes that he was born near Sheffield, England. In 1907, his family came to Canada, settling on a homestead near Maidstone. Almost immediately, 20-year-old “Jack” Wesson became involved with the affairs of the Saskatchewan Grain Growers Association. He was a persuasive exponent of the principle of co-operation, and was active in the organization of the Saskatchewan Co-operative Elevator Company in 1917, the forerunner of the Wheat Pool.

“He was active in bringing most of the major farm organizations of Canada together in the Canadian Federation of Agriculture in 1937, and became first president of that organization.”

Following the end of World War II, Wesson worked with leaders of farm movements in other countries to bring about the establishment of the International Federation of Agricultural Producers.

“His voice became the voice of Prairie wheat farmers and, upon occasions, the voice of the whole of Canadian agriculture,” says Braidek. “With purpose and dignity he spoke, and was listened to, in provincial, national and international councils. Wherever the welfare of the Canadian farmer was discussed, John Wesson was to be found, and the weight of his judgment and influence were felt”

There are also inductees like Mary Ann Lavallee, who worked hard for many years to improve the quality of life in First Nations communities. She was born on the Cowessess Reserve on June 2, 1920. She was schooled at the Qu'Appelle Indian Residential School at Lebret, graduated from high school, and later qualified as a Registered Nurse at St. Boniface Hospital.

Her citation notes that “She married Sam Lavallee and they established a farm on the Cowessess Reserve. They encountered great difficulty in attempting to build and modernize their farm and in getting adequate education for their children. Sam and Mary Ann sought changes. Mary Ann was a prime mover in establishment of a home and school association in her community. She became a firm believer in equal educational opportunities and in freedom of choice for Indian parents in decisions affecting their children. She was instrumental in forming school committees on reserves across Saskatchewan and in encouraging kindergarten programs for children.”

Mary Ann Lavallee became an unofficial spokesperson for native people seeking legal and social reform. She lectured at universities, travelled across Canada and as far away as Australia to share her life’s experience and wisdom. Slices of her contributions, and sketches of 168 other inductees, are lovingly displayed at the SAHF.

Nominations to the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame are received on an annual basis. Spouses and families of those being honoured are also recognized because, in many cases, family support made possible the outstanding contributions being saluted. Nomination forms can be downloaded on the SAHF Web site at: http://www.usask.ca/agriculture/sahf/.

For more information, contact:

Jack Braidek
(306) 933-1257
or
Gary Carlson
(306) 586-0211
Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame http://www.usask.ca/agriculture/sahf/

Shepherd Mentoring Creates Expertise in Invasive Species Management

source: Farm and Food Report

The use of sheep and goats is an effective means to manage invasive plant species.

However the art and practical use of such livestock to manage invasive species is not well understood by many producers, according to Saskatchewan Sheep Development Board General Manager Gordon Shroeder.

“We saw that there was a need for a mentoring program to encourage producers to properly utilize sheep for the purpose of managing invasive species. With this in mind, we developed and are delivering a hands-on course on the use of sheep as a management tool — particularly when it comes to leafy spurge.”

The mentors are long-term shepherds with much experience. Participants are people who have shown interest in being shepherds. In most cases, they own sheep themselves and they are all working on individual projects as well, according to Schroeder.

“There are four mentors and we are looking at 20 participants. Some are young people looking to learn. Some are First Nations members trying to control leafy spurge on band property.”

Shroeder says there are misconceptions about just how much leafy spurge sheep will eat.

“You need to confine the sheep to smaller areas with high concentrations of the weed, so they have a chance to develop a taste for it. Sheep actually prefer to eat leafy spurge than grass once they have developed a taste for it. Part of the problem we have is getting into the pastures, because ranchers fear sheep will eat the grass. That is simply not a problem when the right approach is used. In fact, mixed species (sheep and cattle) grazing in leafy spurge infested pastures has been found to be a better use of resource than either species alone.”

Sheep need a more blended diet between spurge and other foliage including grass, because of the risk of scours if the proportion of spurge is too high or introduced to quickly without “training”. Even with the small amount of grass they might consume, the reduction of the leafy spurge pressure on grass production will result in more available grass for cattle grazing. Pastures with 80% or greater cover of leafy spurge will have no capacity for cattle grazing.

The mentorship program addresses many aspects of the trade such as basic sheep health; how to condition the sheep (score for finish); the basics of working with herding and guardian dogs; understanding plant species; camp set up (where and how to); night pens (proper location); how to deal with predation; how much grazing time is sufficient per day; and, what the agenda of a typical day should be.

“Shepherds tend to get up at 5:00 or 6:00 am with the sun. They will graze their animals for four or five hours and they lay them to rest until late afternoon, when they graze again. On average, shepherds need to spend eight hours a day grazing their flock in order to get the sheep growing and gaining weight.”

Mentorship participants learn about the psychology of sheep and their behaviour. Sheep are animals that like to follow, Schroeder points out.

“If you can’t control the front end of the herd, you will lose them. Dogs play a crucial role in making the shepherd’s life easier. Some shepherds become so good at their job that they spend much of their time reading books.”

Of course, this kind of life might drive some people crazy. It is all a matter of attitude.

Knowing that their efforts contribute to maintaining the ecological integrity of Saskatchewan’s ranges and pastures might just be one more incentive to entice potential shepherds to join the ranks of a noble occupation, endowed with what some might perceive as many advantages.

Gordon Schroeder
General Manager
Saskatchewan Sheep Development Board
(306) 933-5582
http://www.agr.gov.sk.ca/agrifood/boards/SKSheep.htm