Storage facilities in Saskatchewan, Canada have nearly filled with this year’s bumper grain crop, though some claim storage capacity never meets demand, bumper crop or not. Some farmers have resorted to on-ground storage. http://cjme.com/story/bumper-crop-leads-grain-storage-issues/133074
Government of Canada Invests in Technology to Reduce Waste in Grain Bins
The Canadian government plans to invest nearly $300,000 in research focused on developing imaging technology to monitor the moisture levels in grain bins. The projects aims to reduce waste, increase the competitiveness of Canadian grains, and contribute to global food security via the application of science and technology. http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/government-of-canada-invests-in-technology-to-reduce-waste-in-grain-bins-1824928.htm
Canada and Australia Join Forces to Improve Food Security in Africa – $15 Million Project Call Launched
Two international research institutes are joining forces to initiate a project called ‘Cultivate Africa’s Future’ (CultiAF). The research partnership will focus on innovation for smallholders, especially women. One focus topic of the $15 million project will be curbing postharvest losses. http://online.wsj.com/article/PR-CO-20130716-908563.html
Standards Need to Remain Voluntary, Industry Reps Caution
Canada launched national standards for grain biodiversity that are meant to manage the risk of plant pests and disease. The voluntary standards include guidelines for safe handling, transport, and use of equipment. Opinions on voluntary status of standards vary. http://www.betterfarming.com/online-news/standards-need-remain-voluntary-industry-reps-caution-11775
National Grains Biosecurity Standard Launched
Canada launched national standards for grain biodiversity that are meant to manage the risk of plant pests and disease. The voluntary standards include guidelines for safe handling, transport, and use of equipment. Opinions on voluntary status of standards vary. http://www.grainews.ca/news/national-grains-biosecurity-standard-launched/1002112717/
Food in 2013: Pay more, Waste Less
The Canadian newspaper, The Globe and Mail, wrote that Canadians are likely to see a 1.5%-3.5% increase in food prices in 2013 due to various factors like the 2012 drought, changes in market supply, and overall climate change. The article promotes cutting food waste, as high as 38% in Canadian households, as a top strategy […]
The Importance of Cooperatives by Jack Wilkinson
Former President of the International Federation of Agricultural Producers (IFAP) Jack Wilkinson, a farmer from Canada, outlines the importance of cooperatives in both developed and developing countries. He highlighted the potential for community cooperatives to aid in grain-producing areas of Africa where individual farmers do not have the resources to purchase adequate cleaning and storage […]
CWB Books $6B in Revenues for 2010-11
Both the United States and Canada have experienced unsatisfying harvests due to weather and transportation issues, and have, as a result, one of the smallest and lowest-grade crops on record. In the US, warmer weather limited access to on-farm storage bins and slowed down crop delivery. http://www.canadiancattlemen.ca/news/cwb-books-6b-in-revenues-for-2010-11/1000922585/
Canada – Banner Year for Excess Moisture Insurance Claims
Agricultural insurance claims have hit an all-time high in Canada due to excessive moisture claims. The Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation is estimating 7,000 postharvest claims and has noticed a distinct increase in participation in AgriInsurance. http://www.agroinsurance.com/en/news/?pid=17536&print=1
Under Western Skies 3: September 9 – 13, 2014
Call for papers for “Under Western Skies 2: Environment, Community, and Culture in North America” with a focus on agriculture, food, and food security. http://skies.mtroyal.ca/