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The manager of the Canada West Swine Health Intelligence Network is advising pork producers to be paying particular attention to the presence of blisters on pigs over the next three months that could be mistaken for a foreign animal disease. Last year the identification of blisters, ultimately found to be caused by Seneca Valley Virus, on culled sows heading from Canada to the U.S. for slaughter, triggered a series of foreign animal disease investigations prompting USDA to halt the import of culled sows until foreign animal disease was ruled out. As part of the Canada West Swine Health Intelligence Network’s consultations with swine herd practitioners and veterinary lab diagnosticians, aimed at compiling its just released quarter one report for 2024, one practitioner’s mention of Swine pox led to further discussions about skin syndromes. CWSHI Manager Dr. Jette Christensen says the similarity of lesions caused by a variety of conditions, in particular Seneca Valley Virus, to foreign animal diseases such as African Swine Fever and Foot and Mouth disease was among the points covered. Quote-Dr. Jette Christensen-Canada West Swine Health Intelligence Network: One of the practitioners said, is there seasonality to this, because it happened two years in a row that the USDA discovered healed blisters on sows going to the U.S. for slaughter.It happened last year in 2023, it happened the year before in 2022 and it started around June both years.That's why we said, is there seasonality here? We don't know because we only have two years.But, it's really prudent for sow herds that want to ship culled sows to assembly yards for slaughter in the U.S. to be extra vigilant in May, June and July to make sure that there's no skin lesions that could be mistaken as either Senaca valley virus or Foot and Mouth disease so blisters.So, if you see any skin lesions you need to call your vet. Dr. Christensen notes blisters are reportable to the Canadian Food inspection Agency which will initiate a foreign animal disease investigation. For more visit Farmscape.Ca.

Research conducted by North Carolina State University shows effective cleaning and disinfection of swine transport vehicles disrupts the movement of disease. North Carolina State University with funding from the Swine Health Information Center conducted a study which looked at the risk of disease spread associated with swine transport vehicle movement. SHIC Associate Director Dr. Lisa Becton says, to better understand the movement networks within different systems, disease transmission risks and the interventions that can be used to reduce those risks, scientists analyzed GPS data collected from 823 vehicles over one year in two different regions of the United States. Quote-Dr. Lisa Becton-Swine Health Information Center: It focused on the GPS data from vehicles transporting pigs, feed and people.It gathered a lot of information such as premises ID, the GPS locations, it utilized pork supply plans to understand boundaries of the farm.What it found was cleaning and disinfection and the time that it takes to do that process can disrupt what they call the networks of connection between farms. Essentially cleaning and disinfection can reduce the amount of trips that vehicles take to separate farms and thus disrupt the potential chance of transmission or spread.Interestingly though, even if a farm assumes they're doing 100 percent of cleaning and disinfection effectively, you still have up to 88 percent of farms over that year's time being connected by vehicle movement. So, you have to take a lot of these things as a whole and understand that cleaning and disinfection is still one of the biggest tools that we have for disease transmission of movements that occur on our farms on a day-to-day basis.Reducing that contact will also reduce the transmission of diseases. Dr. Becton notes details on this study and others can be accessed through SHIC's website at swinehealth.org.

An agriculture reporter with the Western Producer says the news media has an important role to play in helping increase awareness of dangers posed by wild pigs."How to reach the public, working with the media" was the among the topics discussed as part of Animal Health Canada's Canadian Wild Pig Summit, hosted in Brandon in partnership with Assiniboine Community College, Squeal on Pigs Manitoba and Manitoba Pork. Ed White, an agriculture reporter with the Western Producer, told those on hand the media is playing a key role in building public awareness. Quote-Ed White-Western Producer: To reach the vast public out there, beyond people that will be actively looking for information on this, I think you really have to work with news media. That's what gets to the average person in some way and it may not be through any one media outlet but a combination of hearing about stuff on radio, on TV, on YouTube, on Facebook, obviously where I work at a newspaper, magazines, that's where I think most people still get a lot of their information. Official sources are great but most people never see those. If they're government publications or official websites or things like that, that's only going to hit a minority of people.I think to really spread the message from those sites out much wider and to let people know those sources are even available you've got to go through the news media.People might not even know that there's wild pigs around them. They might not know what those signs are.If you haven't seen what wild pig damage is you might wonder, why is my pasture all dug up? If you are a hunter in the city and you hear there's a wild pig problem but you don't know much about wild pigs, you might think, heck, I'm going to go and help.I'm going to go out to where I hear there are some and start shooting at them, not realising that that could spread the problem wide. White suggests, while there is a growing understanding that there is some sort of an issue, there's a not a deep understanding of the topic so people have a lot more to learn about the problem.

With Mother’s Day this Sunday (don’t forget!), Farms.com is connecting with ag moms for a Q&A about motherhood, the first moments of holding a newborn and more. The first mom in Western Canada to participate is Sheila Hillmer (SH). Along with her husband Martin and their two sons, Keeley (27) and Braeden (25), the family raises cattle and grains in Del Bonita, Alta. “Keeley is easy going, more outgoing, more social and likes to have a lot of fun,” Hillmer said about her eldest son. “Braeden is much more introverted, has a dry sense of humour and is the quiet thinker of the group. Farms.com: Describe where you were when you found out you were pregnant for the first time. How did it make you feel? SH: We had been trying and it happened very quickly. We were at home and I basically felt like I was pregnant. I did a quick (home) test and then went to the doctor. In addition to being excited, I was terrified because I’d never really been around kids before. Farms.com: Describe the feeling of holding a newborn for the first time. SH: They took Keeley away and put him in an incubator. When they finally brought him to me, I was excited to have a boy, excited to be a mom and equally as terrified because I had no experience with what I was doing.

Image via CASA CASA (Canadian Agricultural Safety Association), per its moniker, is committed to finding new ways to promote farm safety, and has done so by organizing its inaugural Kids FarmSafe Week. The event takes place May 13-19, 2024. Throughout the week, CASA will delve into daily themes like youth mental health, machinery safety, kids' health, preventing falls, farm animal safety, and drowning prevention. Special thanks to BASF Canada Agricultural Solutions for sponsoring this initiative. Join CASA’s insightful webinars on engaging young ones in farm safety learning. Visit www.kidsfarmsafe.ca for webinar details, to explore resources, articles, and graphics.

As Mother’s Day approaches this Sunday (there’s still time to get a gift!), Farms.com is connecting with multiple ag moms for a Q&A about motherhood, its hardest parts, and pieces of advice for new moms. The first Ontario ag mom to participate is Angela Cammaert (AC). Along with her husband Dave, they’re growing crops and raising cattle and their two children, a young teenage son, and a pre-teen daughter, in Elgin County. “My son is extremely outgoing and very curious about mechanics,” she told Farms.com. “And he loves sports and athletics. My daughter is more creative, enjoys crafts and is more reserved.” Farms.com: Where were you when you found out you were pregnant for the first time? How did it make you feel? AC: We were around the farm, and we were so excited that we were adding another branch to the family tree. Farms.com: Describe the feeling of holding a newborn for the first time. AC: I don’t even know how to put that into words. It’s an experience you don’t forget.

Image via CASA CASA (Canadian Agricultural Safety Association), per its moniker, is committed to finding new ways to promote farm safety, and has done so by organizing its inaugural Kids FarmSafe Week. The event takes place May 13-19, 2024. Throughout the week, CASA will delve into daily themes like youth mental health, machinery safety, kids' health, preventing falls, farm animal safety, and drowning prevention. Special thanks to BASF Canada Agricultural Solutions for sponsoring this initiative. Join CASA’s insightful webinars on engaging young ones in farm safety learning. Visit www.kidsfarmsafe.ca for webinar details, to explore resources, articles, and graphics.

Braxten Breen, Farms.com Intern It’s not uncommon for a farmer’s tool bench to be cluttered with tools, especially during busy periods of time where tools are frequently being used and returned without immediate cleaning or organizing. The Drill Dock is a sturdy mounted bracket that attaches to any shelf on your tool bench with a universal design that allows it to fit any drill or driver a farmer may have. Simply slide the drill in the dock to store, and slide the drill out when needed, thus creating quick and easy access for the farmer when the drill or driver is needed. The Drill Dock has a sturdy mounting bracket that’s attachable to any shelf on your tool bench that will create a permanent home base for your drills and drivers. If wanting to go mobile with the Drill Dock, simply push the tab on the mounting bracket and slide. From there you’ll be able transfer the Drill Dock to a shelf in the truck, pocket in your work bag, edge of a bucket, etc. with the heavy-duty clip. The Drill sock features a strong magnet that keeps your most frequently used drill bits secured and ready when needed. Along with a drill bit sizing guide to avoid playing the guessing game when it comes to the right size. If you’re looking to reduce the clutter of frequently used tools, especially drills and drivers, the Drill Dock provides immediate access to tools. Whether it’s inside the barn on the tool bench or going mobile around the farm.

Who knew there was a little potato industry until now, but the unveiling of an innovative packaging facility by The Little Potato Company Ltd. in Alberta marks a significant moment for North America's little potato industry. The grand opening of this sustainable facility in Nisku not only signifies the company's expansion but also highlights its efforts to improving global food quality. Spanning an impressive 240,000 square feet, the new facility represents a $39.5 million investment and strategically positions itself in the Nisku Business Park. Its location was chosen for its proximity to excellent agricultural regions, dedicated family growers, efficient transportation networks, and a skilled workforce. This cutting-edge facility showcases pioneering technology that transforms the way little potatoes are washed, sorted, and packaged, with a focus on eco-friendly processes. The Little Potato Company leads the industry towards a more sustainable future in food production by substantially reducing carbon footprint and waste. Notably, a quarter of the facility's energy is generated by 3,288 solar modules, making it the second-largest privately funded rooftop microgenerator in Alberta. Furthermore, a state-of-the-art water recycling system has been implemented, allowing for significant reduction in water usage, operational expenses, and enhancing the value and safety of the products. With the capacity to process approximately 125 million pounds of little potatoes annually, the facility is set to establish new industry standards. About 70 percent of this capacity will cater to export sales, primarily to the United States. The project received support from the Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit program of the Government of Alberta, contributing $1.3 million, aimed at boosting local businesses and driving economic growth and diversification in the province. Angela Santiago, CEO, and Co-Founder of The Little Potato Company, expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for this milestone, stating, "Today is more than an opening; it's a promise to our community and the planet." She further added, "Our innovative facility is built with future generations in mind. We are ensuring that we lead in eco-friendly production to meet the growing demand for families wanting to serve delicious and nutritious whole food quickly." The Little Potato Company Ltd., established in 1996 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, by Angela Santiago and Jacob van der Schaaf, specializes in breeding, growing, and marketing little potatoes. These tasty, fresh whole potatoes, cultivated on family farms, are available in over 20,000 stores throughout the United States and Canada. They are pre-washed and do not need peeling, making them a convenient choice, ready to cook in just five minutes.

Seeding operations are well underway across Canada and the United States, signaling the start of another agricultural season. Despite the prevailing softness in global corn and soybean prices, attributed to an increase in global ending stocks, producers' seeding intentions are expected to remain largely unchanged. The FCC Economics team says there will be potential yield impacts from reduced winter moisture conditions in Western Canada. The landscape might see some shifts due to strong price signals from international demand, particularly from India for pulses, which could influence acreage allocation and present marketing opportunities for various crops. Below are some key insights from FCC on the upcoming planting season. Minimal Changes in Acreage Expected: Canadian producers are anticipated to stick to their typical crop rotations, with minimal deviations from last year's acreage. Most farmers will continue with corn-soybean rotations in the east and canola-wheat rotations in the west. Differing Projections: While Statistics Canada and FCC (Farm Credit Canada) projections slightly differ, both suggest minimal changes in acreage. It's worth noting that Statistics Canada's survey, conducted in December and January, may not fully capture subsequent changes in market conditions, such as declining crop prices and higher fertilizer costs. Canola Acreage Expected to Increase: Despite Statistics Canada projecting a decline, FCC anticipates a 1.3 percent increase in canola acreage. Historically, producers tend to understate their intentions for canola, and factors like improved basis levels and additional crush capacity may bolster its attractiveness. Stable Wheat and Coarse Grains Acreage: Acreage for wheat and coarse grains is expected to remain unchanged or slightly lower, influenced by declining commodity prices. However, oats and wheat might see some shifts due to lower input costs associated with oats and wheat's resilience during droughts. Pulse Acreage Shifts: Strong pulse prices are likely to attract acreage shifts, with lentil acreage expected to increase by 3.3 percent and dry peas by 0.3 percent. Pea acreage could potentially expand further due to its resilience in drought conditions and lower associated fertilizer costs. Impact of Drought on Western Canada: Western Canada is facing dry conditions, with significant portions under drought. While moisture deficits may lead to additional seeded acres, in-season rainfall will be crucial for yield outcomes. Crops like canola, durum, and lentils are more susceptible to drought impacts compared to wheat, barley, and peas. US Planting Trends: The US planting report suggests reductions in corn and soybean acres, influenced by factors like drought. However, actual acres might differ based on spring weather conditions. Market Impact: As always, weather will remain a key factor influencing commodity prices. Corn and soybeans play a significant role in setting world prices for other grains like wheat and canola. Chart courtesy FCC;

Risk Management Intern 1. The USDA crop progress report comes out Monday May 6th, and will likely show that crop planting progress is behind for the year as precipitation continues to develop across the Mississippi valley and Midwest, further delaying crop planting. As noted last week, both topsoil and subsoil conditions will be assisted by said rains. U.S. HRW wheat country long-term weather forecast through May 12 is wet, wet and wet, similar to 2019 which was a big prevented plant insurance year! Many farmers will be delayed possibly through May 20th! The 5-year average for next week for U.S. corn planting is 42 percent, soybeans 21 percent, cotton 23 percent, oats 64 percent, and spring wheat 38 percent. 2. Keep an eye on the price of wheat as weather experts are forecasting rain by mid-May for the dry areas of southern Russia that have seen 0 percent precipitation in the last three months. If it does not rain in the month of May in southern Russia, where 70 percent of the wheat production comes from, wheat futures will continue to climb higher. Look for any headline news that says India is importing wheat to rebuild reserves that have fallen to a 16-year low. 3. The U.S. Drought monitor report comes out Thursday May 9th and will likely show improvements across most of the U.S. Midwest, as the wet weather forecast across the Mississippi valley and Midwest has reduced drought across the region. This is great preparation for the La Nina weather pattern that is likely to come in late spring or early summer. But the top corn producer, Iowa still needs a lot more rain to fix the drought deficit from the last four years. 4. The 1st forecast for the 24/25 crop year will be the USDA May WASDE crop report which comes out Thursday May 9th. It shows an increase in 23/24 corn exports of 50 million bushels with the USDA using 90 million lower 2024 U.S. corn acres and ending stocks dropping to 2.3 billion from 2.616 billion bushels. We could finally see the USDA lower its Argentina and Brazil corn crop forecast, as the USDA remains an outlier vs. Brazilian forecasters (CONAB) and private forecasters. A move lower would be a move in the right direction. 5. U.S. meat export federation data will be released May 6 -8, 2024. Look for further strength in U.S. March 2024 pork exports to continue to support higher U.S. hog futures as the U.S. continue

Kubota recently expanded its lineup of utility vehicles with the introduction of the RTV-X1130, a robust workhorse designed to meet the rigorous demands of farm work. Farms.com recently spoke with Jacob Mandoza, Senior Product Manager for Kubota Utility Vehicles, about the new RTV. The RTV-X1130 belongs to Kubota's renowned X series, which includes models with one and two rows and options for full cabs with heating and A/C. This new model stands out with its one-row open design and an extended six-foot cargo bed equipped with a hydraulic dump feature as standard. This makes it exceptionally versatile on the farm. One of the most significant advancements in the RTV-X1130 is the introduction of ProKonvert technology. This feature allows the cargo bed sides to be folded down or removed entirely without tools, converting it into a flatbed. This flexibility greatly facilitates the loading and unloading process, saving time and effort. The vehicle is not just about utility but also performance. It houses a globally acclaimed Kubota diesel engine and a Kubota-built hydrostatic transmission, ensuring reliability and efficiency. The RTV-X1130 also comes equipped with hydraulic power steering. The commonality of diesel fuel usage across farm equipment adds another layer of convenience, as it simplifies fuel management for farmers. With these comprehensive features, the RTV-X1130 is not just a utility vehicle but a critical farm asset that combines durability, flexibility, and power. It promises to be a dependable partner on the farm, helping you achieve more with less effort. Watch the video below to see the RTV-X1130 ProKonvert functionality in action.

Who knew there was a little potato industry until now, but the unveiling of an innovative packaging facility by The Little Potato Company Ltd. in Alberta marks a significant moment for North America's little potato industry. The grand opening of this sustainable facility in Nisku not only signifies the company's expansion but also highlights its efforts to improving global food quality. Spanning an impressive 240,000 square feet, the new facility represents a $39.5 million investment and strategically positions itself in the Nisku Business Park. Its location was chosen for its proximity to excellent agricultural regions, dedicated family growers, efficient transportation networks, and a skilled workforce. This cutting-edge facility showcases pioneering technology that transforms the way little potatoes are washed, sorted, and packaged, with a focus on eco-friendly processes. The Little Potato Company leads the industry towards a more sustainable future in food production by substantially reducing carbon footprint and waste. Notably, a quarter of the facility's energy is generated by 3,288 solar modules, making it the second-largest privately funded rooftop microgenerator in Alberta. Furthermore, a state-of-the-art water recycling system has been implemented, allowing for significant reduction in water usage, operational expenses, and enhancing the value and safety of the products. With the capacity to process approximately 125 million pounds of little potatoes annually, the facility is set to establish new industry standards. About 70 percent of this capacity will cater to export sales, primarily to the United States. The project received support from the Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit program of the Government of Alberta, contributing $1.3 million, aimed at boosting local businesses and driving economic growth and diversification in the province. Angela Santiago, CEO, and Co-Founder of The Little Potato Company, expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for this milestone, stating, "Today is more than an opening; it's a promise to our community and the planet." She further added, "Our innovative facility is built with future generations in mind. We are ensuring that we lead in eco-friendly production to meet the growing demand for families wanting to serve delicious and nutritious whole food quickly." The Little Potato Company Ltd., established in 1996 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, by Angela Santiago and Jacob van der Schaaf, specializes in breeding, growing, and marketing little potatoes. These tasty, fresh whole potatoes, cultivated on family farms, are available in over 20,000 stores throughout the United States and Canada. They are pre-washed and do not need peeling, making them a convenient choice, ready to cook in just five minutes.

Braxten Breen, Farms.com Intern It’s not uncommon for a farmer’s tool bench to be cluttered with tools, especially during busy periods of time where tools are frequently being used and returned without immediate cleaning or organizing. The Drill Dock is a sturdy mounted bracket that attaches to any shelf on your tool bench with a universal design that allows it to fit any drill or driver a farmer may have. Simply slide the drill in the dock to store, and slide the drill out when needed, thus creating quick and easy access for the farmer when the drill or driver is needed. The Drill Dock has a sturdy mounting bracket that’s attachable to any shelf on your tool bench that will create a permanent home base for your drills and drivers. If wanting to go mobile with the Drill Dock, simply push the tab on the mounting bracket and slide. From there you’ll be able transfer the Drill Dock to a shelf in the truck, pocket in your work bag, edge of a bucket, etc. with the heavy-duty clip. The Drill sock features a strong magnet that keeps your most frequently used drill bits secured and ready when needed. Along with a drill bit sizing guide to avoid playing the guessing game when it comes to the right size. If you’re looking to reduce the clutter of frequently used tools, especially drills and drivers, the Drill Dock provides immediate access to tools. Whether it’s inside the barn on the tool bench or going mobile around the farm.

The mayor of Nanton, Alta., is urging people to vote for the local grain elevators in the Next Great Save contest. “Can we do it? Jennifer Handley said on X on Thursday morning. “We are a town of nearly 2,300 people and we have been doing our best to gain votes. We’ve got a solid footing at third place, but we need more votes and shares to push through to first! 15,000 votes to be exact.” Ryan Pollard, a councillor with the City of Leduc, responded saying he’s been splitting his votes between the grain elevator and the Cape Bear Lighthouse in P.E.I. That project has 5,998 votes. The Next Great Save contest, administered by the National Trust for Canada, awards a total of $65,000 to communities to help with local landmark maintenance and preservation. Individuals can vote once a day regardless of geography. Voters will be asked to verify an email address to ensure the ballot is counted properly. As of May 2, the elevators at the Canadian Grain Discovery Centre have 23,439 votes and are in third place. If the third-place result holds, it would receive $5,000. Any winnings from the contest would be used to stabilize the structure and do work outside of the Albera Wheat Pool elevator. This would include a fresh coat of paint and structural engineering work. The first and second place winners receive $50,0

Employees at two railway companies could strike later this month. The Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC) announced that 97.6 per cent of CN conductors, locomotive engineers and yard workers, and 99 per cent of the same employees at CPKC, voted in favour of moving forward with a strike. And rail traffic controllers at CPKC voted 95.3 per cent in favour of a strike. This means if the union and employers can’t come to an agreement, a strike could occur as early as May 22. “CN and CPKC, the message is clear,” Paul Boucher, president of the TCRC said during a May 1 news conference in Ottawa. “Your employees have spoken.” Any claims that the railway companies are proposing predictable work schedules are false, Boucher said. A summary of CN’s April 11 offer to the TCRC indicates the organization is offering consistent schedules. “Employees will know, in advance, the days they are at work and the days they are off – giving them more flexibility and work-life balance,” the document says. “Furthermore, they cannot be called to work during the scheduled days off at their home terminal.”

Image via Rural Ontario Institute The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) has opened its recruitment for the () program. The ROI is a non-profit organization committed to developing leaders, informing decision-makers, and connecting communities. It delivers the renowned (), which is entering its 40th year of operation, and the program, a youth leadership initiative for young rural, emerging leaders to address local priorities. The ROI provides data research and analysis on rural trends and demographics. It is currently engaged in a rural housing initiative that will help communities address the housing and homelessness crises being faced by thousands of Canadians. The program is supported by its regional partners: Opiikapawiin Services LP (OSLP), which represents a collective of 24 First Nations from Northwestern Ontario; Community Futures Huron; Haliburton-Minden Hills community collective, including 20 businesses, leaders, organizations, farmers, and educators; TRENVAL Business Development Corporation; Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation; Renfrew County Economic Development; and the Four County Labour Market Planning Board. The program welcomes applications from engaged young leaders aged 18–35 in rural and northern Ontario eager to become the next faces of change and mobilize action around issues important to their communities. “It will be exciting to see our youth from Wataynikaneyap partner communities advance their skills, knowledge, and gifts through leadership roles and community projects. The path they choose on their shared leadership journey will help build positive outcomes for the future,” stated Laura Calmwind, Training Program Manager of OSLP. “The Four County Labour Market Planning Board is proud to support the Change Makers Program as a partner for 024–25. It is important in retaining our youth in the region to engage with them and to build meaningful relationships with their communities,” explained Dana Soucie, Executive Director of the Four County Labour Market Planning Board. “The Change Makers program has proven to be very successful with their excellent hands-on, grassroots approach to educating future leaders. We are so excited for this year's applicants!” Amber Darling of the TRENVAL Business Development Corporation added, “Trenval Community Futures is proud to bring the Rural Change Makers Program to the Bay of Quinte Area. This program is a springboard for young changemakers to ignite their passions, cultivate leadership skills, and amplify their voices as they embrace challenges that will shape communities in the future.” Commented Paul Nichol, General Manager, CF Huron, &

New Holland’s CR11 has made a splash for many reasons, including its grain capacity and unload rate. This model is specially designed to meet the growing demands of modern farming, accommodating higher yields and larger operations. Farms.com recently chatted with J Cole Sanford, Cash Crop Product Specialist for New Holland, about the CR11. Sanford says that at the core of the CR11's design is its significantly increased grain tank capacity, which now holds up to 567 bushels. This enhancement allows for prolonged harvesting periods without frequently emptying the tank and supports the farmers' need to manage larger yields more efficiently. The combine's unload auger further complements this by facilitating a rapid unloading process at a rate of six bushels per second, ensuring that time spent transferring grain is minimized, and productivity is maximized. Sanford shares that the CR11 also boasts larger headers and a high-capacity system to handle increased throughput. These features are crucial as market trends show a consistent rise in crop yields. The design anticipates future agricultural conditions, demonstrating New Holland's commitment to innovation and forward-thinking in machinery development. Moreover, the CR11 combine is not just about capacity and speed explains Sanford. Its design reflects a deep understanding of farmers' evolving needs, from current yield management to future market trends. This model represents a significant leap over its predecessor, the flagship CR, by offering advanced solutions to modern agricultural challenges. But hold on, Sanford says that prospective buyers will need to wait until the last few months of 2024 before New Holland will begin taking orders for the CR11. Watch the video below as Sanford provides an overview of grain capacity and throughput the New Holland CR11 combine.

The mayor of Nanton, Alta., is urging people to vote for the local grain elevators in the Next Great Save contest. “Can we do it? Jennifer Handley said on X on Thursday morning. “We are a town of nearly 2,300 people and we have been doing our best to gain votes. We’ve got a solid footing at third place, but we need more votes and shares to push through to first! 15,000 votes to be exact.” Ryan Pollard, a councillor with the City of Leduc, responded saying he’s been splitting his votes between the grain elevator and the Cape Bear Lighthouse in P.E.I. That project has 5,998 votes. The Next Great Save contest, administered by the National Trust for Canada, awards a total of $65,000 to communities to help with local landmark maintenance and preservation. Individuals can vote once a day regardless of geography. Voters will be asked to verify an email address to ensure the ballot is counted properly. As of May 2, the elevators at the Canadian Grain Discovery Centre have 23,439 votes and are in third place. If the third-place result holds, it would receive $5,000. Any winnings from the contest would be used to stabilize the structure and do work outside of the Albera Wheat Pool elevator. This would include a fresh coat of paint and structural engineering work. The first and second place winners receive $50,0

Image via Rural Ontario Institute The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) has opened its recruitment for the () program. The ROI is a non-profit organization committed to developing leaders, informing decision-makers, and connecting communities. It delivers the renowned (), which is entering its 40th year of operation, and the program, a youth leadership initiative for young rural, emerging leaders to address local priorities. The ROI provides data research and analysis on rural trends and demographics. It is currently engaged in a rural housing initiative that will help communities address the housing and homelessness crises being faced by thousands of Canadians. The program is supported by its regional partners: Opiikapawiin Services LP (OSLP), which represents a collective of 24 First Nations from Northwestern Ontario; Community Futures Huron; Haliburton-Minden Hills community collective, including 20 businesses, leaders, organizations, farmers, and educators; TRENVAL Business Development Corporation; Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation; Renfrew County Economic Development; and the Four County Labour Market Planning Board. The program welcomes applications from engaged young leaders aged 18–35 in rural and northern Ontario eager to become the next faces of change and mobilize action around issues important to their communities. “It will be exciting to see our youth from Wataynikaneyap partner communities advance their skills, knowledge, and gifts through leadership roles and community projects. The path they choose on their shared leadership journey will help build positive outcomes for the future,” stated Laura Calmwind, Training Program Manager of OSLP. “The Four County Labour Market Planning Board is proud to support the Change Makers Program as a partner for 024–25. It is important in retaining our youth in the region to engage with them and to build meaningful relationships with their communities,” explained Dana Soucie, Executive Director of the Four County Labour Market Planning Board. “The Change Makers program has proven to be very successful with their excellent hands-on, grassroots approach to educating future leaders. We are so excited for this year's applicants!” Amber Darling of the TRENVAL Business Development Corporation added, “Trenval Community Futures is proud to bring the Rural Change Makers Program to the Bay of Quinte Area. This program is a springboard for young changemakers to ignite their passions, cultivate leadership skills, and amplify their voices as they embrace challenges that will shape communities in the future.” Commented Paul Nichol, General Manager, CF Huron, &