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Get free COVID-19 rapid tests for your employees
Did you know rapid tests can help identify employees who may be infected with COVID-19 but have no symptoms? Learn more about the benefits of rapid testing and find out how you can start your own screening program.
Helping feed at-risk Canadians
Too many Canadians are struggling to access food. Additional funding for the Local Food Infrastructure Fund will continue to address food insecurity and strengthen our food systems.
Enjoy the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables with a tasty snack
Canada's fruit and vegetables and those who grow and harvest them are resilient, overcoming shorter growing seasons and the latitudes of the north to make their way on to your plate. This year, we celebrate them!
Fields of Science – Encouraging the next generation
Explore Fields of Science and discover how our scientists help get food from the field to your plate. Check out their research and the path that lead them to become an agricultural scientist.
New website address
Agr.gc.ca becomes agriculture.canada.ca, and joins the big Canada.ca family! This allows Canadians to have a consistent look and feel when searching for government information online.
Food Waste Reduction Challenge: novel technologies put to good use
Innovators can now apply with their novel technological solutions to reduce food waste.
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| Title | First Published Date | Abstract | Month | Type | Full abstract hidden column | Keywords hidden column |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Episode 014 - Mental health: UPA’s work to break the stigma | 2021-07-29 | In this third episode on mental health, we explore the topic from the perspective of a professional agricultural association. We speak with Marcel Groleau, President of Quebec’s Agricultural Producers Union (UPA), who tells us about the resources available to producer. From overcoming mental health challenges, to breaking the stigma, he shares insights into the unique programming developed in Quebec. | July | Podcast | Mental health | |
| Get free COVID-19 rapid tests for your employees | 2021-07-28 | Did you know rapid tests can help identify employees who may be infected with COVID-19 but have no symptoms? Learn more about the benefits of rapid testing and find out how you can start your own screening program. | July | Article | ||
| Helping feed at-risk Canadians | 2021-07-27 | Too many Canadians are struggling to access food. Additional funding for the Local Food Infrastructure Fund will continue to address food insecurity and strengthen our food systems. | July | Article | ||
| Episode 013 - Mental health: from the farmer's perspective | 2021-07-27 | Cynthia Beck and her family run a cattle and grain operation in South-East Saskatchewan. After facing her own mental health challenges and discovering a lack of resources tailored towards the agricultural sector, Cynthia decided to do something about it. | July | Podcast | Mental health | |
| Enjoy the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables with a tasty snack | 2021-07-19 | Canada's fruit and vegetables and those who grow and harvest them are resilient, overcoming shorter growing seasons and the latitudes of the north to make their way on to your plate. This year, we celebrate them! | July | Article | ||
| Fields of Science – Encouraging the next generation | 2021-07-12 | Explore Fields of Science and discover how our scientists help get food from the field to your plate. Check out their research and the path that lead them to become an agricultural scientist. | July | Article | ||
| New website address | 2021-06-23 | Agr.gc.ca becomes agriculture.canada.ca, and joins the big Canada.ca family! This allows Canadians to have a consistent look and feel when searching for government information online. | June | Article | ||
| Episode 012 - Food Waste Reduction Challenge: The Next Level | 2021-06-23 | Over 300 ideas were submitted to the Food Waste Reduction Challenge. Twenty-four of the best ideas were selected for funding. Now it's time to test their concepts and compete for the $1.5M grand prize. In this episode, jury member and celebrity chef, Bob Blumer, tells us about the selection process. He also shares tips on reducing food waste at home. Mohamed Yassine from Impact Canada joins the conversation to tell us what's next. | June | Podcast | ||
| Food Waste Reduction Challenge: novel technologies put to good use | 2021-06-21 | Innovators can now apply with their novel technological solutions to reduce food waste. | June | Article | food, waste, food waste, innovation, technological solutions | |
| Better Grown Together | 2021-06-16 | The benefits of intercropping are endless. While making the most out of your soil, intercropping allows for more diversity within your produce selection and can make better use of resources. | June | Article | traditional practice, intercrop | |
| New programs will help supply-managed farmers | 2021-06-08 | An investment of more than $691 million will support innovation and growth for Canada's chicken, turkey and egg farmers. | June | Article | ||
| Wetlands and Farmlands: Celebrating World Environment Day | 2021-06-05 | Several environment groups and conservationists, including Ducks Unlimited, are taking notice of the work by Living Lab – Atlantic partners to construct new wetlands on Prince Edward Island farms. | June | Article | improve water quality | |
| Food Waste Reduction Challenge: innovators advance to the semi-finals | 2021-05-21 | For the next 8 months, the 24 semi-finalists will put their business model solutions to the test in order to demonstrate effectiveness. | May | Article | Stream A, Stream B, food supply chain | |
| Episode 011 - Climate change and agricultural solutions | 2021-05-12 | Climate change is one of the biggest challenges for our times - and the impacts are especially challenging for the agricultural sector. In this episode, we talk about a science model that the Government of Canada is using to generate solutions, as well as issues related to climate change and agriculture. We hear from two generations of environmental scientists on the topic. | May | Podcast | ||
| Increased investment to improve the recruitment and development of young agricultural workers | 2021-05-05 | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is doubling its budget for the Youth Employment and Skills Program in order to develop the skills of the workforce of tomorrow while meeting the considerable needs of the agri-food sector. | May | Article | YESP, funding | |
| Budget 2021 and Canada's Agriculture and Agri-Food Sector | 2021-04-28 | Find out how Budget 2021's proposed investments and initiatives will impact the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector. | April | Article | environmental sustainability, climate change, economic growth, funding | |
| Fast tracking the adoption of climate-smart best practices in agriculture | 2021-04-27 | The Agricultural Climate Solutions Program will establish a strong, Canada-wide network of regional collaboration hubs, led by farmers, that develop and share farming practices to mitigate climate change. | April | Article | ||
| Raise a glass to the success of the west coast wine industry for BC Wine Month | 2021-04-27 | British Columbia wines are a perfect reflection of the province itself in which a significant portion of the grapes for Canada's wineries are grown. Honour your favourite west coast wine and learn some interesting facts about the lands and industry they originate from. | April | Article | Like the land where the grapes are grown, each bottle of British Columbia wine serves an extraordinary and unique experience. | wine, grapes, wineries, winery |
| AgriStability is changing to better help farmers: Enrol now for 2021 | 2021-04-14 | Farmers can take advantage of AgriStability changes for 2020 and have more time to enrol for 2021. | April | Article | On March 25, 2021, Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers agreed to remove the reference margin limit for AgriStability participants retroactive to the 2020 program year, a change that could increase the overall amount the program pays out to farmers by approximately $95 million nationally. | agriculture, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador |
| Everyone at the Table: Canadian Food Policy Advisory Council convenes first meeting | 2021-03-30 | In June 2019, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced the first-ever Food Policy for Canada while visiting Montreal's Carrefour Alimentaire Centre-Sud, a community organization dedicated to improving access to healthy food for all. | March | Article | The Advisory Council will advise the Minister on current and emerging food-related issues that matter to Canadians. This advice will reflect the integrated and complex nature of Canada's food system, and support improved and sustainable health, social, environmental and economic outcomes. | agriculture, food system, |
| Good food starts with good research! | 2021-03-24 | Our scientists are doing outstanding work! Check out Fields of Science to learn more about how their work contributes to the food on our plates. | March | Article | Do you know how Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) agricultural scientists make sure the food you eat is safe, high quality, and produced in sustainable ways? | agriculture, agricultural scientists, Fields of Science, research |
| Episode 010 - Mental health on the farm | 2021-03-17 | In this episode we speak with Dr. Briana Hagen about tailoring mental health programs to the needs of farmers. She explains how mental health in farming is fundamentally different than in other sectors. And she points toward solutions and successful programs across the country including the program called, In the Know, which she helped developed at the University of Guelph. | March | Podcast | ||
| Being agri-literate: Canadian Agricultural Literacy Month celebrates its 10th anniversary | 2021-03-12 | This year marks the tenth anniversary of Canadian Agricultural Literacy Month, a time for students to get their hands into the soil to see how deep our farming roots go. | March | Article | Farming is one of oldest crafts, with a body of knowledge that has been expanded and refined for thousands of years. | agriculture in the classroom, Canadian agricultural partnership, student, youth |
| A partnership pioneer: Dr. Douglas Hedley joins the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame | 2021-02-24 | For his roadmap to bringing the Canadian agriculture sector together, this man is a member of the 2020 Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame. | February | Article | For his roadmap to bringing the Canadian agriculture sector together, this man is a member of the 2020 Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame. | Canadian Agricultural Partnership, Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame, Agriculture, CdnAg, Canadian Agriculture, Douglas Hedley, agricultural policy, innovation |
| The 2021 Census of Agriculture is now faster and easier to complete | 2021-02-18 | Farm operators: watch for the Census of Agriculture this spring. Here's what to expect for the 2021 edition. | February | Article | It gives an up-to-date picture of the Canadian agriculture sector by identifying trends, opportunities and challenges that have an impact on the industry. | census, decision-makers, operation, Statistics Canada |
| Episode 008 - Leading Women | 2021-02-09 | Minister, President, CEO: This is a very frank discussion with three women leaders in the agriculture and food sector. They talk about their experiences and the benefits of a more inclusive and diverse sector at all levels. | February | Podcast | The First Sixteen is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's new podcast series that explores the freshest ideas in agriculture and food. Each episode explores a single topic in depth—digging deep into new practices, innovative ideas, and their impacts on the industry. Learn about Canada's agricultural sector from the people making the breakthroughs and knocking down the barriers! Farmers and foodies, scientists and leaders, and anyone with an eye on the future of the sector—this podcast is for you! New episodes every two weeks. | All three are the first women in their positions. All three are advocates for making our sector welcoming and inclusive for all. Through their stories and reflections we find out actions we can all take to make this a truly diverse, inclusive and competitive sector. |
| Helping Canadian businesses expand their export opportunities | 2021-01-27 | The AgriAssurance Program provides Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) with financial support to obtain the certifications needed to export to a new market. | January | Article | Whether you want to enter the organics trade, obtain a food safety certification, or get a specific foreign recognition – your business will need to meet the standards set out by the industry, and we can help. | SME, marketing, travel restrictions, pandemic |
| Dr. Hao and his amazing automated greenhouse | 2021-01-21 | AAFC researcher Dr. Xiuming Hao's green thumb brought his team to victory at the Autonomous Greenhouse Challenge where AI and horticultural expertise is leading the way to feeding the world. | January | Article | Mother Nature has nothing on the magic that comes from combining Artificial Intelligence (AI) with the kind of horticultural expertise that Dr. Xiuming Hao provides. | Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands, greenhouse, remotely controlled, horticulture |
| Western food banks draw on community spirit during hard times | 2021-01-21 | In western Canada, two communities are drawing on the power of food and community spirit to get them through challenging times. | January | Article | During the COVID-19 period, the Peachland Food Bank has been serving clients at the door. Elements of Christmas with his Cree heritage to create an inclusive environment for all communities. | Local Food Infrastructure Fund, food bank, British Columbia, Alberta, Peachland, Edmonton, community, food security, Peachland Food Bank, St. Faith's Anglican Church, church, homeless, refrigerator, Indigenous, Cree |
| Episode 007 - The opportunity of food waste | 2021-01-06 | Is food waste really an opportunity? Denise Philippe of the National Zero Waste Council believes so. Listen to this discussion where she outlines gaps in our food system and shows us where opportunities exist. As well, learn about the new, Food Waste Reduction Challenge. | January | Podcast | The First Sixteen is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's new podcast series that explores the freshest ideas in agriculture and food. Each episode explores a single topic in depth—digging deep into new practices, innovative ideas, and their impacts on the industry. Learn about Canada's agricultural sector from the people making the breakthroughs and knocking down the barriers! Farmers and foodies, scientists and leaders, and anyone with an eye on the future of the sector—this podcast is for you! New episodes every two weeks. | Food waste, challenge, Impact Canada, Denise Philippe |
| East Coast food banks find a way to keep their cool | 2020-12-24 | Providing families with hearty holiday food, is "a very bright spot after a hard year." | December | Article | Canada's local food banks have proved instrumental in supporting our most vulnerable when they need it most. Winter is here, and the need is greater than ever. | Glace Bay, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Saint John, New Brunswick |
| The Researcher and the Cranberry: A Holiday Tale | 2020-12-21 | A holiday story about an AAFC researcher who had never heard about cranberries but is now studying them in poultry to fight against antimicrobial resistance. | December | Article | This story begins like many good Canadian farming stories, with a family who loved their way of life and lived off the land. It ends with an important discovery about a Canadian food icon —the cranberry— and research that could help all Canadians. | Guelph Research and Development Centre, Dr. Moussa Diarra, cranberry, diversity, alternatives to antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), poultry, Mali |
| Episode 006 - The next generation: Who is going to produce your food tomorrow? | 2020-12-14 | Meet the next generation of Canadians working in agriculture and agri-food sector. Jerry Bos, a young dairy farmer and co-chair of the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council, shares his vision for the future. Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau tells us why it's important to have young farmers like Jerry and the other members of the council at the decision-making table. | December | Podcast | The First Sixteen is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's new podcast series that explores the freshest ideas in agriculture and food. Each episode explores a single topic in depth—digging deep into new practices, innovative ideas, and their impacts on the industry. Learn about Canada's agricultural sector from the people making the breakthroughs and knocking down the barriers! Farmers and foodies, scientists and leaders, and anyone with an eye on the future of the sector—this podcast is for you! New episodes every two weeks. | dairy, Jerry Bos, Canadian Agricultural Youth Council |
| Eyes on the prize: Canada's Outstanding Young Farmers | 2020-12-07 |
Checking in with last year's honourees of the Outstanding Young Farmers competition. |
December | Article | In this unprecedented year, last year's honourees of the Outstanding Young Farmers competition are finding new ways to continue their work in the agriculture sector. | OYF, Canada's Outstanding Young Farmers Program, CdnAg, Competition, Outstanding Young Farmers, Outstanding Young Farmers, COVID-19, pandemic, agri-food, agribusiness, crops, dairy, potatoes, fertilizer, goats, eggs, restaurant, food service, online sales |
| Helping Canadian farmers innovate and expand | 2020-11-25 | Looking to establish or upgrade your farm? Find out how the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act program can help. | November | Article | Looking to establish or upgrade your farm? Find out how the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act program can help. | |
| Technology and youth on the farm: Bringing Alberta's agriculture into a new age | 2020-11-09 | How one young Albertan is giving back to the agriculture sector amid a unique year. | November | Article | A story of how youth are finding gainful work in Alberta's agriculture sector. | Olds College, Alberta, Alberta agriculture, ABag, Canadian agriculture, Cdnag, Olds, agritech, agribusiness, technology, internship, youth, YESP, Youth Employment and Skills Program |
| Episode 005 – Saving nutrients with novel science | 2020-11-04 | Christopher Garhnham and his team at the AAFC has discovered something very small that could have big impacts in the food and feed industry. | November | Podcast | The First Sixteen is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's new podcast series that explores the freshest ideas in agriculture and food. Each episode explores a single topic in depth—digging deep into new practices, innovative ideas, and their impacts on the industry. Learn about Canada's agricultural sector from the people making the breakthroughs and knocking down the barriers! Farmers and foodies, scientists and leaders, and anyone with an eye on the future of the sector—this podcast is for you! New episodes every two weeks. | Christopher Garhnham and his team at the AAFC has discovered something very small that could have big impacts in the food and feed industry. Some crops such as corn and wheat can be infected by a fungus that, while growing, produces mycotoxins. Ingestion of mycotoxin-laden food and feed is detrimental to the health livestock and humans. Listen as Christopher Garnham explains the discovery he and his team made of an enzyme that has the potential to mitigating these toxins in Canadian agri-food and agri-feed. |
| Teaching through a pandemic | 2020-10-22 | After adapting to COVID-19 in physical and virtual ways, the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum has reopened its doors to the public! | October | Video | After adapting to COVID-19 in physical and virtual ways, the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum—our partner in promoting agricultural science and achievements—has reopened its doors to the public! | Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Kerry-Leigh Burchill, COVID-19, programs, educate, schools |
| Cold storage: Making the most of your harvest | 2020-10-22 | How to store your harvested apples and potatoes. | October | Article | The harvests that Canadians are enjoying from their COVID-19 gardening projects this year are more than generous: colourful and crisp vegetables, juicy fruits, tart berries and some well-spent hours in the sun away from the realities of social distancing. | Apples and potatoes, in particular, grow in quantities that require long-term storage. Learn how to best store your apples and potatoes for best nutrition and flavour with some help from our researchers! |
| Bulk buying: How one British Columbian initiative is helping protect Canada's food-sector workers against COVID-19 | 2020-10-14 | How one B.C. association stepped up to help keep Canadian food-industry workers safe, when they needed it most. | October | Article | When COVID-19 began to spread in Canada, there was a surge in demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) across the country. While health care workers were prioritized, other essential services – such as the food industry – struggled to find proper safety equipment for their staff. | BCFB, British Columbia Food and Beverage Association, PPE, Personal Protective Equipment, COVID-19, novel coronavirus, food and beverage industry, British Columbia, Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC, BC Government, worker safety. |
| Episode 001 – Farmers, innovators! And how good ideas spread | 2020-09-30 | Interview with Julie Dawson, a beef specialist at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and who is also a sixth generation farmer. Listen in on this fascinating discussion about how much farming has and is changing, and how fast. | September | Podcast | The First Sixteen is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's new podcast series that explores the freshest ideas in agriculture and food. Each episode explores a single topic in depth—digging deep into new practices, innovative ideas, and their impacts on the industry. Learn about Canada's agricultural sector from the people making the breakthroughs and knocking down the barriers! Farmers and foodies, scientists and leaders, and anyone with an eye on the future of the sector—this podcast is for you! New episodes every two weeks. | |
| Episode 002 – Rapid response: Feeding Canadians during the pandemic | 2020-09-30 | Listen in as we shed light on an innovative and nimble collaboration that is addressing food insecurity during the pandemic. | September | Podcast | The First Sixteen is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's new podcast series that explores the freshest ideas in agriculture and food. Each episode explores a single topic in depth—digging deep into new practices, innovative ideas, and their impacts on the industry. Learn about Canada's agricultural sector from the people making the breakthroughs and knocking down the barriers! Farmers and foodies, scientists and leaders, and anyone with an eye on the future of the sector—this podcast is for you! New episodes every two weeks. | |
| Episode 003 – The science of reconciliation! Bridging Indigenous knowledge with agricultural science | 2020-09-30 | In discussion with two agents of change in the world of agricultural science, we explore a new and brilliant way forward. | September | Podcast | The First Sixteen is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's new podcast series that explores the freshest ideas in agriculture and food. Each episode explores a single topic in depth—digging deep into new practices, innovative ideas, and their impacts on the industry. Learn about Canada's agricultural sector from the people making the breakthroughs and knocking down the barriers! Farmers and foodies, scientists and leaders, and anyone with an eye on the future of the sector—this podcast is for you! New episodes every two weeks. | |
| Episode 004 – RADARSAT Constellation Mission - Agriculture from space | 2020-10-14 | Learn about the Radarsat Constellation Mission, the type of data that flows from it, its applications in agriculture and how it is used by environmental stewards to work with farmers. | October | Podcast | The First Sixteen is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's new podcast series that explores the freshest ideas in agriculture and food. Each episode explores a single topic in depth—digging deep into new practices, innovative ideas, and their impacts on the industry. Learn about Canada's agricultural sector from the people making the breakthroughs and knocking down the barriers! Farmers and foodies, scientists and leaders, and anyone with an eye on the future of the sector—this podcast is for you! New episodes every two weeks. | |
| New podcast series explores the freshest ideas in Canadian ag and food | 2020-09-30 | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has launched The First Sixteen, a new biweekly podcast series that digs into leading edge topics in Canadian agriculture and food. | September | Article | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has launched a new podcast series called The First Sixteen. The First Sixteen invites listeners to discover the latest breakthroughs in agriculture and agri food and to hear from the experts and innovators on what they mean for the sector and for the lives of Canadians as a whole. | |
| Helping Canadian farmers during uncertain times | 2020-09-29 | The Advance Payments Program offers cash advances to sell crops and livestock when prices are most favourable. | September | Article | Is COVID-19 making you question the right time to sell your products? Farming can be unpredictable at the best of times. From planting to harvest, unexpected costs can disrupt your plans. Prices rise and fall, and the market is constantly changing. This uncertainty can make selling your products for a profit, while managing your finances, challenging. However, the Advance Payments Program (APP), can help give you the flexibility to sell when market conditions are favourable. | COVID-19, APP, coronavirus |
| The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy continues to help the sector | 2020-09-21 | The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) has been extended and simplified to be more flexible and reduce complexity for applicants. | September | Article | Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, producers and processors have faced many challenges maintaining their operations, including paying employees or keeping them employed. The Government of Canada has put in place financial support measures to help. One of these measures is the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), which provides a subsidy of 75% of the wages to be paid by eligible employers to eligible employees. | COVID-19, CEWS, Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, coronavirus |
| Pleasing pollinators: Supporting your hardworking garden allies | 2020-08-05 | Many pollinators are hard at work on farms and in your garden. | August | Article | Bumble bees are probably the most recognized pollinator, but there are many other pollinators hard at work on farms and in your garden | Pollinators, bees, butterflies, beetles, flies, wasps |
| Funding available to help food processors ensure capacity of Canadian made foods | 2020-07-29 | $77.5 million Emergency Processing Fund helps companies make changes to safeguard worker safety and to increase food supply. | July | Article | ||
| Funding available to address food insecurity and help alleviate food concerns of vulnerable Canadians | 2020-07-29 | The Surplus Food Rescue Program is a $50 million initiative which is designed to address food insecurity and help to alleviate food concerns of vulnerable Canadians | July | Article | ||
| Canadians invited to Step up to the plate and work in ag jobs | 2020-07-29 | AAFC's Step up to the plate employment portal draws interest from thousands of Canadians | July | Article | ||
| New web portal points ag businesses to key financial supports | 2020-07-29 | To help farmers, food processors, and agri food businesses get the financial support information they need during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada has launched a new, all inclusive online information portal. | July | Article | ||
| Minister names members of Canada's first agricultural youth council | 2020-07-29 | Meet the 25 young people who will have the ear of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food! | July | Article | ||
| Plan(t) for success | 2020-06-11 | How to manage common pests in your home garden | June | Article | ||
| Digging in: The dirt on a healthy home garden | 2020-05-15 | This spring, nature is calling out to Canadians once again. | May | Article | ||
| New youth council will help shape the sector | 2020-01-09 | Have your say on the opportunities and challenges facing the ag sector | January | Article | ||
| Minister Bibeau is eager to work closely with producers to ensure they are positioned for success | 2020-01-09 | Minister Bibeau is eager to work closely with producers to ensure they are positioned for success | January | Article | ||
| Farmers and researchers working together as part of "Living Labs" | 2020-01-09 | The new Living Laboratories Initiative brings together farmers and researchers to solve local environmental challenges and ensure sustainable farm productivity. The results will lead to new tools and resources for producers. | January | Article | ||
| Working together to keep African swine fever out of Canada | 2020-01-09 | Find out how the Government of Canada is collaborating with the provinces and pork industry to stay vigilant in keeping ASF from entering the country. | January | Article | ||
| Canada's ministers of agriculture meet to discuss priorities | 2020-01-09 | Federal, provincial and territorial ministers of agriculture met face to face for a second time in 2019 to discuss ways to improve support for the sector. | January | Article | Ministers, Minister Bibeau, meeting, trade, weather, market access | |
| Funding available to ag sector organizations or industry partners to support leading-edge projects | 2020-01-09 | Is your organization facing a challenge to adopt, test or pilot an innovative project that could boost the competitiveness of Canada's agriculture sector? Learn more about funding through the Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program. | January | Article | The program provides funding to agricultural food processing or manufacturing organizations. | COVID reponse, companies, emergency processing fund |
| Canola update: sector united in response to Chinese suspensions | 2019-04-15 | In the face of sudden canola export suspensions by China, members across Canada's canola industry and government are coming together to resolve the impasse on an important export commodity. | April | Article | Last month, the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) suspended the licenses of two Canadian companies – Richardson International Limited and Viterra Inc. – to export their canola seed to China. China is citing non-compliance with China's plant health requirements, and as such, has also increased their inspection measures on Canadian canola. | canola, crops, trade, China, export, Working Group |
| Newly appointed Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister meeting with industry | 2019-04-15 | Recently appointed Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau has been busy meeting with farmers, food processors and provincial counterparts to discuss challenges and opportunities for the sector. | April | Article | Only days after becoming the first female federal Minister of Agriculture in Canada's history, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau was out meeting with farmers, processors and industry leaders. Minister Bibeau, who represents a rural constituency in Quebec, had the opportunity to talk to a number of key stakeholders who gave her an even better understanding of the scope of Canada's thriving agricultural sector. | Minister, Bibeau, visit, province, Canada, canola, China, Women in Agriculture, Export, Working Group, stakeholder |
| Budget 2019: New investments to grow Canadian agriculture | 2019-04-15 | Funding for Canada's first food policy, supply management sector, innovation for the food processing sector and more. | April | Article | Canada's agriculture and food systems are prominent features of the 2019 federal budget, which was tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019. The budget also reiterated the Government of Canada's support for science and research and focuses on improving Canada's food system. | Budget 2019, Canada's Food System, Food Policy, Investment |
| Be proactive in managing risk: Enrol in AgriStability | 2019-04-15 | AgriStability supports you when you experience a large margin decline.... | April | Article | AgriStability is delivered under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $3-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments meant to strengthen the agriculture and agri-food sector. Under the Partnership, programs like AgriStability, AgriInvest and AgriInsurance will continue to help farmers manage significant risks to their farms that are beyond their capacity to manage. | AgriStability, Programs, funding, Canadian Agricultural Partnership, Enroll |
| Keeping African swine fever out of Canada | 2019-04-15 | Detector dogs are frontline protection in preventing African swine fever from entering Canada. ... | April | Article | African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious viral disease of domestic and wild pigs. It causes high death rates in infected pigs and can infect swine herds in various ways, but poses no risk to human health. There is no treatment or vaccine for African swine fever. | African Swine Fever, ASF, swine, porc, funding, Minister, Bibeau, announcement, prevention, preparedness, animal disease, |
| Survey on "Product of Canada" and "Made in Canada" labelling guidelines | 2019-04-15 | The Government of Canada seeks industry feedback as it considers potential changes to "Product of Canada" and "Made in Canada" labelling guidelines. | April | Article | The use of "Product of Canada" and "Made in Canada" claims is voluntary. However, once a company chooses to make one of these claims, the product to which it is applied must meet the guidelines set out by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). | Labelling, Guidelines, Made in Canada, Product of Canada, Survey, Industry, Consultations |
| Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program now accepting applications | 2019-04-15 | New funding program supports industry-led projects to help the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector capitalize on opportunities and address emerging issues. | April | Article | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada recently launched the Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program (CASPP), a $50.3-million, five-year program intended to replace the Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program. | Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program, CASPP, Programs, funding, Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program |
| New Agriculture Emergency Management Bulletin | 2019-04-15 | The Agriculture Emergency Management (AEM) Bulletin... | April | Article | As the 100-year flood happens more and more often, and as more and more people travel around the world, the risks to Canada's agricultural sector grow. Knowing what steps you can take to prevent a disaster—or to mitigate the impacts and manage the fallout when something goes wrong—can make you and the sector as a whole more resilient. | Agriculture Emergency Management, preparedness, bulletin, subscribe, extreme weather |
| Strategy for healthy piglets without antibiotics | 2019-04-15 | A feeding strategy for piglets that does not include antibiotics will reduce veterinary costs and facilitate access to the European market for Canadian hog producers. | April | Article | A feeding strategy for piglets that does not include antibiotics will reduce veterinary costs and facilitate access to the European market for Canadian hog producers. . | Antibiotic, Hog, Hog sector, Piglets, Swine, Animal health, Animal disease, Feeding, Research, Research Centre, Sherbrooke, Guelph, science, Swine Innovation Porc |
| How will you celebrate Canada's Agriculture Day? | 2019-02-11 | Join the festivities across Canada on February 12 and help raise awareness of Canada's dynamic agriculture and agri-food sector. | February | Article |
Join the festivities across Canada on February 12 and help raise awareness of Canada's dynamic agriculture and agri-food sector. On Canada's Agriculture Day add your voice to the chorus of agricultural enthusiasts from around the country — and online — who will be celebrating our innovative, prosperous and growing agriculture sector. |
Agriculture Day |
| Rooted in strength – tools for becoming more resilient | 2019-02-11 | 'When winter storms roll in, taking care of our families and ourselves can sometimes be extra demanding. | February | Article | Farming can provide an amazing lifestyle with great rewards, but it can also be hard on mental health, especially during the cold, isolating winter months. Farmers and their families often face high levels of stress because of forces that are beyond their control, such as weather, disease, commodity prices, and trade.
Following Budget 2018, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Minister Lawrence MacAulay mandated Farm Credit Canada (FCC) to work with and support like-minded organizations to assist Canadian producers with mental health issues through greater awareness and knowledge dissemination and to provide greater access to services and supports in rural Canada. |
resilience, mental health |
| Girls and science: what a team! | 2019-02-11 | February 11 is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a chance to highlight the important contributions of women in agricultural science. | February | Article | February 11 is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a chance to highlight the important contributions of women in agricultural science. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) researchers regularly take part in activities to inspire youth.
Chemist Louise Deschênes, a member of AAFC's Women in Science network, organized a tour at the Saint-Hyacinthe Research and Development Centre, where approximately 30 students got a taste of potential career paths in agricultural science. |
women in science |
| Major milestones advancing ag | 2019-02-11 | Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector is a key driver of the Canadian economy and a high-performing sector in today's global marketplace. | February | Article | Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector is a key driver of the Canadian economy and a high-performing sector in today's global marketplace. Major initiatives were launched and investments made in 2018 to ensure the sector continues to grow, innovate and prosper. Here are some highlights:
Working towards the Government's target of $75 billion in agri-food exports by 2025 |
agriculture exports |
| Growing Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector | 2019-01-08 | Agri-Food Economic Strategy Table releases ambitious long-term vision... | January | Article |
In September 2018, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada released the much-anticipated Report from Canada's Economic Strategy Tables: The Innovation and Competitiveness Imperative. |
Budget 2017, Agri-Food Table, Economic Strategy Table |
| New web portal to help Canadians adapt to climate change | 2019-01-08 | Wide range of information and services will support farmers. | January | Article |
Climate information—including timely, accurate and trusted weather information—is critical for decisions related to agricultural production. |
Web portal, climate change, Canadian Centre for Climate Services, data, website, agroclimate, drought |
| Trade deals aim to diversify Canada's agricultural trade | 2019-01-08 | CUSMA agreement and CPTPP ratification are vital steps in growing the Canadian economy. | January | Article | Trade deals are a top priority for the Government of Canada, as Canada seeks to open new markets around the world. The Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) is now complete and the recent ratification of the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) means that Canada was among the first six parties to enjoy the benefits of the agreement when it came into force on December 30, 2018. | Minister MacAulay, trade, CUSMA, CPTPP, CETA |
| Government of Canada invests in automation and digital technologies | 2019-01-08 | National initiatives to support agriculture and agri-food sector. | January | Article | The Government of Canada recently launched a new funding competition through the Strategic Innovation Fund. | Strategic Innovation Fund, Economic Strategy Table, innovation, funding, application |
| Trade missions to the EU and China boost Canada's agriculture profile | 2019-01-08 | Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay leads two trade missions to key export markets. | January | Article | As a trading nation, Canada's partnerships with countries around the world are vitally important to keeping the flow of high-quality Canadian goods moving to destinations such as Europe and China. | Minister MacAulay, trade, Europe, China, mission, CETA, Spain, Belgium, Italy, agreement |
| 'Making hay' with forages | 2019-01-08 | Though often overlooked, forage is the third most profitable crop for Canadian farmers, valued at more than $5 billion a year. | January | Article | As a trading nation, Canada's partnerships with countries around the world are vitally important to keeping the flow of high-quality Canadian goods moving to destinations such as Europe and China. | Forage, Nappan Research Farm, Swift Current Research and Development Centre, Saskatchewan, winterfat, science |
| Dairy Farm Investment Program Phase II Announced | 2019-01-08 | Funding applications will be accepted from January 7-February 8, 2019. | January | Article | In early December 2018, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada announced that, starting January 7, 2019, it will accept requests for funding under the second phase of the $250-million Dairy Farm Investment Program. | Dairy Farm Investment Program, funding, dairy, technology, equipment, CETA, application |
| Optimizing the value of an ancestral Indigenous crop system | 2019-01-08 | Funding applications will be accepted from January 7-February 8, 2019. | January | Article | The 'Three Sisters' crop system was once widely used by First Nations in the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence Lowlands region. Grown together, corn, squash and beans help each other, resulting in much better crop yields. | Indigenous, Three Sisters, crop, corn, squash, beans, First Nations, science |
| SPACE: The newest frontier in agriculture | 2019-07-16 | Scientists at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) saw earth-orbiting satellites as an opportunity to look at agriculture from a stellar new vantage point. | July | Article | When the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) launched its first Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite in 1995, RADARSAT-1, agriculture wasn't top-of-mind. | SAR, satellites, Synthetic Aperture Radar, RADARSAT-1 |
| Everyone at the table: Launch of the Food Policy for Canada | 2019-07-16 | Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau launched the first-ever Food Policy for Canada at the Carrefour Alimentaire Centre-Sud in Montreal. | July | Article | The Food Policy for Canada is an ambitious initiative, a roadmap for a healthier and more sustainable food system for our country. | Canada Food Policy |
| Share your thoughts on proposed changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program | 2019-07-16 | Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada are seeking feedback on a proposal that would provide greater mobility to foreign workers through the introduction of occupation-specific work permits. | July | Article | Proposed changes to the Primary Agriculture Stream and Low-wage Stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program would allow a foreign worker to move between jobs in the same occupation without the requirement for a new permit each time. | Temporary Foreign Worker Program |
| What the Federal Regulatory Review means for you | 2019-07-16 | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) will lead two modernization proposals meant to support innovation and economic growth in the sector. | July | Article | These proposals aim to help the sector innovate and grow by exploring ways to reduce the burden of regulations, while ensuring that health, safety, security, and environmental protections are respected. | stakeholder collaboration, Agri-Food Aquaculture Roadmap |
| Higher limits for the Advance Payments Program | 2019-07-16 | The Government of Canada announced in May 2019 changes to the Advance Payments Program (APP) that supports farmers with increased loan limits. | July | Article | The APP is a federal loan guarantee program that offers producers access to low-interest cash advances to help provide marketing flexibility, so they can sell their products at the most opportune times. | Advance Payments Program, APP |
| Visit to Japan boosts Canada's agriculture profile | 2019-07-16 | Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, visited Japan to attend the G20 Agriculture Ministers' Meeting and held a series of productive meetings with her counterparts from North America, Asia and Europe. | July | Article | The Government of Canada is taking every opportunity to advance its ambitious trade diversification strategy as it explores ways to help our hardworking farmers tap into new markets and increase their bottom lines. | Japan, G20, Trade Diversification |
| United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement | 2018/10/11 | Canada and the United States reached an agreement last week, alongside Mexico, on a new, modernized trade agreement for the 21st Century: the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). | October | Article | Canada and the United States reached an agreement last week, alongside Mexico, on a new, modernized trade agreement for the 21st Century:. | United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, USMCA, MacAulay |
| Minister of Agriculture Lawrence MacAulay announces details of $70 million agricultural science investment | 2018-10-11 | Boosting support for agricultural innovation will put technologies and best management practices into farmers' hands faster. | October | Article | Agricultural science and innovation got a big lift in September 2018 when Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay announced the details of the $70 million dedicated to agricultural science in Budget 2017. | Innovation, support, management practices |
| Indigenous Pathfinder – new personalized service for Indigenous agricultural businesses and communities | 2018-10-11 | A direct line of support is now available to help Indigenous Peoples access programs related to the agriculture and food sector. | October | Article | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) offers many programs and services for Canadians who participate in the agriculture and food sector, including some that are offered under the new Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $3-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the sector. | Indigenous, support, direct line |
| Bringing premium meat to Canadian domestic and export markets | 2018-10-11 | An Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada researcher is working to produce pigs with higher marbling. | October | Article | Is fat the new lean? Higher pork marbling standards could be on the horizon, leading to a premium product for producers. . | Researcher, pig, science |
| Taking on herbicide resistance | 2018-10-11 | Genetic tools to limit the impact of herbicide resistance are now being used in Quebec and may eventually be available elsewhere. | October | Article | Preventive measures can control the spread of herbicide resistance, but when they stop working, the best tool is rapid detection. | herbicide resistance, genetic tools, science |
| Grow your trade around the world with help from commissioners | 2018-10-11 | Learn how you can benefit from our trade commissioners' advice and guidance on exporting. | October | Article | Did you know that approximately 58% of primary agriculture production in Canada is exported? Translation: The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is highly trade-oriented. | Trade Commissioner |
| 2018 Medium Term Outlook | 2018-10-11 | According to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's Medium Term Outlook 2018, the Canadian agricultural sector is on the path of continued growth. | October | Article | According to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's (AAFC) Medium Term Outlook 2018 (MTO), the Canadian agricultural sector is on the path of continued growth. The MTO provides a baseline projection of agricultural markets from 2017 to 2027. | Medium Term Outlook 2018 |
| Beef Genomic Prediction Trial | 2018-10-11 | The Canadian beef cattle industry is working with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada researchers to produce a more efficient and environmentally sustainable herd. | October | Video | The Canadian beef cattle industry is working with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada researchers to produce a more efficient and environmentally sustainable herd. | beef cattle, sustainability, video, science |
| Quick and easy online searches tailored to your needs with AGPAL | 2018-06-18 | Accessing agricultural programs and services has never been so easy. | June | Article | AGPAL is a web-based discovery tool that helps farmers, processors, agri-businesses and other organizations find agriculture and agri-food related information and resources tailored to their unique needs. | AGPAL, Programs |
| Canada Pavilion Program benefits agricultural businesses | 2018-06-18 | The newly launched Canada Pavilion Program helps industry promote products internationally. | June | Article | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) has recently launched the Canada Pavilion Program to maximize the success of Canadian agriculture and agri-food businesses. | Canada Pavilion Program |
| Expanding eco-friendly pest management options for farmers | 2018-06-18 | Wasps help farmers manage more pests with fewer chemicals. | June | Article | Using "good bugs" to control "bad bugs" is an eco-friendly option that farmers can adopt to reduce their use of chemical pesticides. As well as being safe for the environment and good for Canada's biodiversity, these "good bugs" (known more scientifically as biological control agents) also save farmers time and money. | Pest management, wasp, science |
| Trade missions open up overseas markets for Canadian farmers | 2018-06-18 | As China's population grows, so do opportunities for Canadian producers. | June | Article | Canada's trade mission to China last fall was a huge success. Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay's visit to China in May 2018 built on that success by emphasizing how Canadian farmers and food processors can help meet China's growing demand for agri-food products. | Trade mission, China |
| Transportation Modernization Act will help grain sector thrive | 2018-06-18 | Act gives grain sector new tools to get Canadian grain to market. | June | Article | With another busy and productive crop year on the horizon, it is important for grain farmers and producers to know they are able to rely on a transportation system that will get their products to market safely and in a timely manner. | Transportation Modernization Act |
| Canadian Agricultural Partnership open for business | 2018-03-16 | Applications for federal programs under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership are now available. | March | Article | The Partnership is a progressive federal-provincial-territorial agreement that will help chart the course for government investments in the sector over the next five years, strengthening it to deliver the greatest benefits for farmers, food processors, and Canadian families. | Canadian Agricultural Partnership, CAP |
| AgriStability Changes for 2018 Program Year | 2018-03-16 | Are you covered? | March | Article | The Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a five-year, $3-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments that will strengthen the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector ensuring continued innovation, growth and prosperity. | griStability, programs, Funding, Canadian Agricultural Partnership, Enroll |
| Canola: Canadian, eh? | 2018/03/16 | When people are asked to name Canada's great innovations, canola doesn't usually make the list, but it should. | March | Article | A healthy vegetable oil that most of us use every week in everything from stir-fries to salads—canola oil—is a result of the ingenuity of Canadian plant researchers who took on the challenge of creating a healthy oil from an unfamiliar plant that was known to thrive on the Prairies. | Canola, Crops, science |
| Solving milk-production issues at hog farms | 2018-03-16 | New research to help Canadian hog producers ensure their sows have enough milk for their piglets. | March | Article | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) completed two surveys this year: one among just over 2,000 food producers and another among 400 food processors. | hog, research, science |
| Exploring the impact of public trust | 2018-03-16 | New AAFC surveys reveal how public trust influences producers' and processors' operations. | March | Article | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) completed two surveys this year: one among just over 2,000 food producers and another among 400 food processors. | Survey, Public Trust |
| Budget 2018 | 2018-03-16 | Budget 2018 takes the next steps towards building an equal, competitive, sustainable and fair Canada - where science and innovation spur economic growth. | March | Article | Budget 2018 takes the next steps towards building an equal, competitive, sustainable and fair Canada – where science and innovation spur economic growth. | Budget 2018 |
| Cash flow solutions for farmers | 2018-03-16 | Plan ahead for your spring cash advance. | March | Article | The Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Advance Payments Program (APP) helps agricultural producers access low-interest financing throughout the year to improve their cash flow. | Canada Advance Payments Program, APP |
| Advancing Canada's trade and market access agenda | 2018-03-16 | Minister MacAulay wrapped up four major trade missions abroad and talks up Canada's high-quality food products. | March | Article | Gaining access to global markets and expanding trading relationships with some of the world's largest economies are top priorities for the federal government. | MacAulay, Mission |
| Weather maps that make a difference | 2018-03-16 | Even in the off-season, our weather monitoring services are at work so farmers can be prepared. | March | Article | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's (AAFC) Agroclimate Risk Team is hard at work creating new maps and improving existing ones to help farmers during the growing season. | Weather maps, science |
| Farm innovation in Prince Edward Island just got a big boost | 2018-03-16 | Charlottetown Research and Development Centre flexes its labs. | March | Article | The Charlottetown Research and Development Centre (RDC), which supports innovative research, development, and technology and knowledge transfer activities relevant to the agriculture sector, has just undergone a $6.8-million transformation and has hired five new researchers. | Charlottetown Research and Development Centre |
| Bringing fresher flavours to a freezer aisle near you | 2017-11-08 | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada teams up with industry partner to improve the taste and texture of frozen veggies. | November | Article | Canadian food scientists have come up with an innovative process that has been shown to improve the flavour and retain the texture in frozen vegetables. | Frozen vegetables |
| Making loans more accessible | 2017-11-08 | The Canadian Agricultural Loans Act (CALA) is a loan-guarantee program designed to make loans more available to farmers and agricultural co-operatives. | November | Article | With low interest rates, longer repayment periods and lower down payments, farmers can use CALA loans to establish, improve and develop their farms. Agricultural co-operatives can use them to process, distribute or market their products of farming. | Canadian Agricultural Loans Act, CALA, program, loan |
| Update on North American Free Trade Agreement renegotiations | 2017-11-08 | Four rounds of talks have taken place. | November | Article | Canada, the United States and Mexico held a fourth round of talks in Arlington, Virginia last month to modernize the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) | United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, USMCA |
| Survey finds Canadians view agriculture positively | 2017-11-08 | Canadians have a high regard for the sector but a majority don't consider themselves knowledgeable about agriculture. | November | Article | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) conducted its first survey on agricultural awareness among Canadians. The survey asked 1,521 Canadians about their knowledge and perceptions of the agricultural sector and revealed some of their concerns and priorities. | survey |
| Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada hosts international conference on minor use pesticides | 2017-11-08 | Experts from around the world gather in Montreal to help farmers of specialty crops. | November | Article | Specialty crop producers from around the globe are faced with regulatory challenges including the regulation and registration of pesticides. | Global Minor Use Summit, pesticides |
| Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement benefits eager agriculture and agri-food exporters | 2017-11-08 | The trade deal, one of Canada's most ambitious trade initiatives, opens new markets in the European Union for agriculture and agri-food exporters. | November | Article | The provisional application of CETA on Sept 21, 2017 is excellent news for Canada's agriculture sector, which is now enjoying improved access to the world's largest import market for agriculture and agri-food. | Canada–European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, EU, CETA |
| Taking action against a serious global health threat | 2017-11-08 | New pan-Canadian framework aims to prevent and control the spread of antimicrobial resistance. | November | Article | Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is what happens when microorganisms (such as bacteria or fungi) become resistant to most available treatments—and it is one of the most serious health threats facing the world today. | Antimicrobial resistance, AMR |
| Emergency preparedness for Canadian livestock sector | 2017-11-08 | Tools for responding to costly potential disasters can help Canadian livestock producers. | November | Article | all Canadians should have a plan to take care of themselves and their families in an unexpected crisis—and it's no different for the Canadian livestock and agricultural community. Being equipped to deal with an emergency—such as an animal disease outbreak—is essential. | Emergency, preparedness, Livestock Market Interruption Strategy, LMIS, animal disease |
| A Food Policy for Canada | 2017-11-08 | Consultations on A Food Policy for Canada have wrapped up after reaching almost 45,000 Canadians in an online survey, a national Food Policy Summit, as well as regional engagement sessions held across the country. | November | Article | A food policy is a way to address issues related to the production, processing, distribution, and consumption of food. | Food Policy, consultation, survey |
| Canadian Agricultural Partnership | 2017-07-28 | New agreement to help position Canada as a leader in the global economy. | July | Article | This five-year, $3 billion investment will strengthen the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector, ensuring continued innovation, growth and prosperity. | Canadian Agricultural Partnership, CAP, Business Risk Management, BRM, programs |
| A Food Policy for Canada – Let's build it together | 2017-07-28 | Consultations on A Food Policy for Canada are now underway - the Government of Canada is asking Canadians for their views on what should be included. Complete the online survey by August 31st, 2017 and have your say! | July | Article | A food policy will set a long-term vision for the Government of Canada's health, environmental, social, and economic goals related to food, while identifying actions we can take in the short-term. | Food Policy, consultation, survey |
| Hiring seasonal workers? Plan ahead! | 2017-07-28 | The growing volume of people coming to Canada means it's important for employers to apply early for work permits. | July | Article | Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) would like to remind employers who hire seasonal agricultural workers to plan for the coming season by submitting their work permit applications as early as possible. | seasonal workers |
| Wanted: New members for the National Program Advisory | 2017-07-28 | New and existing farmers from all regions of Canada are encouraged to apply. | July | Article | The NPAC was created to provide advice and guidance on the appropriate roles and responsibilities of producers/governments in managing risks; the operations of the suite of Business Risk Management (BRM) programs, which include AgriInsurance, AgriStability, AgriInvest, AgriRecovery and AgriRisk. | National Program Advisory Committee, NPAC |
| Canadian Potato Genetic Resources | 2017-07-28 | Keeping potatoes alive: Maintaining a "living library". | July | Article | Canada's potato gene bank- known as Canadian Potato Genetic Resources- is part of an international commitment to global food security. | Potato, living library |
| Farm Debt Mediation Service: We can work it out | 2017-07-28 | Discover how an AAFC program is helping farmers manage financial stress. | July | Article | The Farm Debt Mediation Service (FDMS) helps Canadian farmers overcome financial difficulties by offering financial counselling and mediation so they can get their debt repayment back on track. Qualified financial advisors and mediators help farmers and their creditors find mutually acceptable repayment arrangements. | Farm Debt Mediation Service, FDMS |
| New bioherbicide targets weeds, not crops | 2017-07-28 | Beware, dandelions and thistles: Phoma macrostoma is coming soon to a field near you. | July | Article | A team of Canadian scientists is behind a new product that kills weeds without harming grasses or cereals. Dr. Karen Bailey and her team at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) have successfully isolated and purified a fungus called Phoma macrostoma that naturally infects dandelions, Canada thistle, clover and other broad-leaf weeds while leaving grass unscathed. | dandelion, thistle, bioherbicide, Saskatoon Research and Development Centre |
| Tracing Canada's livestock | 2017-07-28 | Livestock premises identification helps Canada respond to emergencies. | July | Article | Under the proposed amendments, anyone who sends or receives livestock will need a PID—including producers, auction marts, assembly yards, abattoirs and deadstock collectors. | Health of Animals Regulations, premises identification number, PID, traceability |
| From desktop to field: Software helps farmers protect crops | 2017-07-28 | Software predicts the development of pests, crops and some post-harvest disorders based on hourly weather data and forecasts. | July | Article | The Computer Centre for Agricultural Pest Forecasting (CIPRA) is a user-friendly software that can predict the development of pests, crops and some post-harvest disorders based on hourly weather data and forecasts. It lets farmers plan and calculate- in real time- the best time to use pest controls to protect crops. | Computer Centre for Agricultural Pest Forecasting, CIPRA |
| Highlights from the 2016 Census of Agriculture | 2017-07-28 | Conducted every five years, the Census of Agriculture provides a statistical portrait of Canada's agriculture industry and its farm operators. | July | Article | The census gathers detailed data on farms, including crop area, number of livestock, employees, quantity and value of farm machinery, farm expenses and receipts, land management practices, and use of technology. | Census |
| Business Risk Management programs | 2017-05-04 | Take steps to protect your farm. | May | Article | Business Risk Management (BRM) programs help farmers manage risks that threaten the viability of the farm. | Business Risk Management programs, BRM |
| What's abuzz in your field boundaries? | 2017-05-04 | Think those non-cropped road allowances are good for nothing? Think again! | May | Article | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) is working on two projects to help understand how field boundaries affect their surrounding environments and farmers' bottom lines. | field bounderies, science, research, bees |
| The Agricultural Youth Green Jobs Initiative is back! | 2017-05-04 | Hire youth to complete your green projects. | May | Article | The program gives farms or farm groups access to funding so they can hire Canadian youth to complete environmental projects. | Agricultural Youth Green Jobs, |
| New alfalfa variety will offer farmers a tougher forage | 2017-05-04 | Neither rain, nor snow, nor drought, nor hoof will stop this new alfalfa variety from growing and thriving in fields across the country. | May | Article | It's been grown under water for six weeks at a time, buried under snow for months, and grown in drought conditions in Ontario and Nova Scotia. | Alfalfa, research, science |
| The Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Advance Payments Program | 2017-05-04 | Strengthen your financials and capitalize on opportunities this spring with a cash advance from AAFC's Advance Payments Program. | May | Article | The Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Advance Payments Program (APP) is a federal loan guarantee program that helps agricultural producers access low interest financing in order to improve cash flow throughout the year. | Advance Payments Program, APP |
| Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada science takes over social media | 2017-05-04 | The science, technologies, and innovations used to ensure Canadians enjoy the freshest products all year long were centre stage during a social media takeover day at AAFC, that was focused on food production and preservation methods. | May | Article | On April 11, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) scientists took over the department's social media channels to share some of the science, innovations and technologies used by the agriculture sector to supply a seemingly endless variety of foods – even through the winter. | Science, Social Media |
| Trade shows give agri-food exporters a competitive edge in lucrative global markets | 2017-05-04 | Through the Canada Pavilion, the Government of Canada helps businesses promote and distinguish their top-quality products and services under one internationally branded Canadian theme. | May | Article | Every year, the Government of Canada partners with exporters to secure space at the world's largest shows and enhance the profile of Canada's diverse and innovative products in the world's most dynamic markets. | Canada Pavilion |
| Budget 2017 supports Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector as an important driver of economic growth | 2017-05-04 | Find out how Budget 2017 is investing in the success and growth of Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector! | May | Article | This budget will help farmers and food processors continue to grow their businesses, create jobs and foster long-term growth for the sector, strengthening its potential to be an even stronger economic engine for the Canadian economy. | Budget 2017 |
| Celebrating 150 years of agriculture | 2017-02-15 | Celebrations are underway for Canada's 150th and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada will be joining in on the festivities. | February | Article | Agriculture has deep roots in our nation's history, and AAFC has been there since the beginning. Did you know that the Department of Agriculture was created on July 1, 1867? At AAFC, we're celebrating 150 years of leadership in the growth, development and sustainability of the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector. | 150 years celebration |
| Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada reopens Frelighsburg Experimental Farm | 2017-02-15 | Ramping up environmental research in agriculture. | February | Article | This spring, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada will reopen the Frelighsburg Experimental Farm – a satellite site of the Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu Research and Development Centre in Québec. At an event held last December, Minister MacAulay announced that the Farm will be home to innovative research aimed at helping producers reduce their environmental footprint and adapt to climate change. | Frelighsburg Experimental Farm |
| Grain safety program gets off the ground | 2017-02-15 | Mobile unit is the first in Canada to offer grain safety training. | February | Article | Grain is the lifeblood of most farming operations, and the need to grow more of it in response to world demand is good news for Canadian farmers. Unfortunately, this increase in production, handling and storage has been accompanied by a growing number of grain entrapments (workers becoming submerged in grain, which often leads to death by suffocation). According to media reports, in 2015 alone, there were seven deaths and two injuries connected with grain across Canada. To put this in perspective, there were 17 deaths over the 23 years from 1990 to 2012. | grain handling, grain safety program |
| Digitizing Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's biological collections | 2017-02-15 | Modernizing historic collections could prevent a devastating pest invasion. | February | Article | Changing climates and growing international trade drive up the risk of new and invasive species endangering Canadian crops. Recognizing this, the federal government announced $30 million in Budget 2016 to support Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's (AAFC) biological collections consisting of insects, plants and other organisms. These funds will be used to inventory and digitize the collections, and to add DNA fingerprint and genomic sequences for hard-to-identify, high-impact organisms—such as those that provide an essential ecosystem function or that could decimate a crop. | insect collections, biological collections |
| Coming soon! A new online tool to calculate optimum nitrogen for corn | 2017-02-15 | Want to save $25 to $49 per hectare? Look for this optimum nitrogen calculator. | February | Article | Nitrogen is critical for crop development. But producers know that the amount needed for corn is difficult to determine, since crop requirements are influenced by factors that range from soil properties to rainfall, to how a crop is affected by temperature changes.
To address this, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) scientists have developed an online tool known as SCAN. Short for Soil, Crop and Atmosphere for Nitrogen, SCAN helps farmers determine the precise amount of nitrogen needed by individual corn crops. |
corn, nitrogen, SCAN |
| Another banner year for Canadian exports | 2017-02-15 | Canada's agriculture sector saw major export breakthroughs around the world in 2016. | February | Article | Canadian farmers have taken full advantage of a number of trade opportunities in 2016, resulting in a record year for Canadian agri-food with seafood exports, with sales reaching $62.5 billion in 2016. This marks an increase of 41% over the past 5 years!
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) has been working with partners around the world to grow and establish relationships that keep our economy and agricultural industries thriving. |
exports |