Farm Forum Fall 2018

IN TRYING TIMES, STICK TO THE BASICS | farmforum.ca

Supporting Canadian Farm Families FALL 2018 $5

calling all youth ‘agvocates’ to the

2019 youth ag-summit Technology

Business

Production

Farm Life

New tech helps prevent surface water contamination

Brad Wall talks agriculture and energy

Field-scale trials help fine-tune farming practices

Make time to talk about mental health

WHAT YOU’RE REALLY GROWING IS YOUR POTENTIAL All growers know one thing: there are no guarantees in the field. With unpredictable weather, infestations, or just bad luck, yields vary from year to year. But, with the #1 cereal seed treatment they don’t have to. That’s why we’re constantly innovating to continually protect your potential from everything that may come your way. Because when your seeds emerge stronger, so do you.

• EMERGE STRONGER • cropscience.bayer.ca/RaxilPRO

1 888-283-6847

@Bayer4CropsCA

Always read and follow label directions. Raxil is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group.

Bayer CropScience Inc. is a member of CropLife Canada.

#AskBayerCrop

®

C-52-09/10-11026596-E

farm forum / fall 2018

CONTENTS COVER STORY

Calling all youth ‘AgVocates’ to the 2019 Youth Ag-Summit /6

Editor's Note / 4

business

In uncertain times, stick to the basics / 13

farm life

Outreach program connects canola farmers to consumers / 27

New system tackles foxtail barley / 30

Brad Wall talks agriculture and energy / 10

Make time to talk about mental health / 15

production

technology

Field-scale trials help fine-tune farming practices / 18

New tech helps prevent surface water contamination / 24

FARMFORUM.CA / fal l 201 8

3

EDITOR’S NOTE

4

FA R M FO R U M .C A / fal l 2018

Publisher Bayer CropScience Inc. Editor Sherry Warner Contributors Trevor Bacque Jennifer Barber Dianne Finstad Joy Gregory Gerald Pilger Clare Stanfield Design/Production Glacier FarmMedia LP Farm Forum is published seasonally by Bayer CropScience Inc. Contact Farm Forum at: Bayer CropScience Inc. Suite 130 160 Quarry Park Blvd. SE Calgary, AB T2C 3G3 T. 1 888-283-6847 F. 1 888-570-9378 E. farmforum@bayer.com www.cropscience.bayer.ca Contents of this publication are copyrighted and may be reproduced only with written permission of the publisher, Bayer CropScience Inc. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Publications Mail Agreement Number 40743517 Registered in Canada Copyright 2018 Website www.farmforum.ca Return undeliverable copies to: Bayer CropScience Inc. Suite 130 160 Quarry Park Blvd. SE Calgary, AB T2C 3G3

photo: bayer

T

o be an Alberta farmer right now is nothing short of an exercise in stress management. As we put this issue to bed, just under half of the provincial crop is in the bin, making the 2018 harvest the latest in years. As a result, many farmers are experiencing a great deal of stress and anxiety.

It’s at these times that farm families need to make time to take care of their mental health. Mental health is a subject many people find difficult to talk about but the consequences of not addressing mental health issues like stress and anxiety can be catastrophic.

Mental health experts encourage farm families to take the time to talk about mental health. And a great place to do that is around the dinner table. When you openly talk about mental health, it makes it easier for family members who need help to ask for assistance. Talking also allows you to figure out how to reach out to family, friends and colleagues who may need help. See our story on page 15 for more information.

This issue’s cover story is about youth sharing their ideas on how to feed a hungry world. From now until January 10, 2019, youth aged 18 to 25 have the opportunity to apply to become a delegate at the 2019 Youth Ag-Summit, held in Brasilia, Brazil, from November 4-6, 2019. The delegate’s goal: contribute individual project ideas on how to feed a hungry planet. Turn to page 6 and hear from two inspiring young Canadians who participated in the 2017 Summit in Brussels, Belgium along with information on how you can apply.

Brad Wall is a household name in Saskatchewan, where he served as the 14th Premier of that province from 2007 until he retired from politics in February 2018. Farm Forum contributor, Gerald Pilger, sat down with Wall and talked about our country’s energy and agriculture sectors. To read the full interview, please turn to page 10.

From trade wars to tariffs to transportation issues, there is much uncertainty in the markets. How do these global issues affect how you plan and market next year’s crop? Bruce Burnett, director of markets and weather information at Glacier FarmMedia, says it’s best to stick to the fundamentals of crop planning and marketing during trying times. That means keep an eye on the markets, be flexible, stick to rotations, have a look at your debt and plan your purchases. For more information turn to our story on page 13.

For Jordan and Jennifer Lindgren, Saskatchewan region recipients of the 2018 Outstanding Young Farmers’ Program award, knowing what does and doesn’t work on their farm helps them get the most out of every acre. For the last three years, the couple have partnered with Prairie Soil Services to conduct large fieldscale trials. Turn to page 18 to find out how this decision has helped boost their bottom line.

Water is a precious resource. Only three per cent of the world’s water is fresh water and 69 per cent of that water is used in agriculture. A challenge for farmers is preventing crop protection products from contaminating surface water, especially when cleaning out the spray tank. Bayer’s new Phytobac system captures wastewater and degrades pesticide residue in a self-contained, closed system. Take a detailed look at this new tech on page 24.

In our final story in this issue, we look at an online outreach program that connects canola producers with canola oil consumers. Through the website, CanolaEatWell.com, a collaboration between Alberta Canola, SaskCanola and Manitoba Canola Growers, consumers learn about the health benefits of canola oil and how to use it to create healthy, tasty food. Also, several programs are offered to bring together canola farmers and consumers in an effort to better understand one another. Turn to page 27 to learn more about this unique program.

— Sherry

On the cover From now until January 10, 2019, youth aged 18 to 25, can apply to become a delegate at the 2019 Youth Ag-Summit, held in Brasilia, Brazil from November 4-6, 2019. Turn to Page 8 to find out how.

Start your season right.

Start with EverGol Energy.

EverGol® Energy seed treatment fungicide provides soybeans with protection against the most important seed and soil-borne diseases caused by rhizoctonia, fusarium, pythium, botrytis and phomopsis.

It provides quicker emergence, healthier plants and higher yields for your soybeans.

Create the complete package of protection by combining the power of EverGol Energy with Allegiance® seed treatment fungicide for early season phytophthora, and Stress Shield® seed treatment insecticide for superior insect protection to help your soybeans thrive during critical early development stages.

Learn more at cropscience.bayer.ca/EverGolEnergy

cropscience.bayer.ca

|

1 888-283-6847

|

@Bayer4CropsCA

|

#AskBayerCrop

Always read and follow label directions. Allegiance®, EverGol®, SeedGrowthTM and Stress Shield® are trademarks of the Bayer Group.

Bayer CropScience Inc. is a member of CropLife Canada.

COVER STORY

Calling all youth ‘AgVocates’ to the 2019 Youth Ag-Summit

I

f you are between 18 and 25 years old, are an active “AgVocate”, have thought a lot about global food security and think you have a kick-a** well, a great idea about how to feed a hungry world, then you should apply to become a delegate at the 2019 Youth Ag-Summit in Brasília, Brazil.

Presented by Bayer, the Youth Ag-Summit is a biennial event where young people from around the world come together to help solve a real and urgent problem: How do we feed a hungry planet?

And according to alumni, it’s an experience not to be missed. Two Canadians who attended the 2017 Summit in Brussels, Belgium, use words such as “inspirational” and “life-changing” when speaking about the five-day, intensive conference.

“There’s a baseline of passion and that passion

6

FA R M FO R U M .C A / FALL 2 018

resonates throughout the week-long event,” says Brandon Hebor, a Toronto native who found himself making connections left, right and centre throughout his time at the 2017 Summit.

“The Summit was an outstanding experience that diversified my perspective of global agricultural opportunities,” he says. “Not only did the experience provide me the opportunity to hear and really connect with so many different views and lifestyles in agriculture, it provided me the chance to make friends, connect with other youth who share the same passion about not necessarily ag, but food.”

Although Hebor was interested in agriculture prior to the Summit, it certainly cemented his career path along with generating new excitement and ideas for his business back home. Ripple Farms

PHOTOS: BAYER

BY TREVOR BACQUE

Youth Ag-Summit class of 2017: 100 delegates from 49 countries hungry to make an impact on the world of agriculture.

is an urban ag business in Toronto, ON, designed to reconnect city dwellers to agriculture through hands-on educational events. Hebor’s business also works to tackle food insecurity through the production of sustainable, local food.

Hebor said he felt inspired by other young people at the Summit who were so passionate and involved in ag. “I fed off the energy of what everyone was bringing (to the table),” he said. This energy helped all the delegates look with a critical lens as to how they were going to tackle the problem of food security. “If we are going to change the world, it has to fit into the world.”

At the Brussels conference, 10 groups of 10 delegates developed workable solutions to key problems in today’s agriculture industry. Hebor’s group worked feverishly to create Seeds of Change, a global NGO designed to engage youth by activating young agriculture champions to enter classrooms and present the story of local agriculture in that country. At the same time, Seeds connects its champions together to allow for idea sharing in hopes of achieving greater success with kids.

“Young people create interest by motivating youth,” says Hebor. “Youth then find someone in that field, look for an industry professional, then live a day in his or her life to see if ag is a career they want to pursue.”

Hebor’s group impressed the judges, finishing as runner-up and receiving the equivalent of C$7,500 for their efforts.

The top prize went to fellow Canadian, Cassandra Hayward, who, along with her peers, created a gender equality solution in the face of global agriculture and food security. They call it Agrikua; kua means “grow” in Swahili.

The conference-winning pitch, earning the equivalent of C$15,000, was designed to educate young women in agriculture by providing free online information related to local agricultural practices. The project is now being piloted in Kenya with local Egerton University and 4-H Kenya.

Currently, Agrikua is conducting field research with the help of 30 female student volunteers to determine where information gaps begin. Once problem areas are identified, Agrikua will develop its platform to minimize and overcome said gaps, aid young women in their educational paths and help empower them, and other women, to enter the agriculture field.

Hayward and her group reconvened in Rome, Italy, from October 15-19 to present their idea to the UN Council on Global Food Security, creating exposure for Agrikua and hopefully securing new grants for their non-profit.

Hayward, who is from Halifax, says she found a home at the Summit and forged »

“The Summit was an outstanding experience that diversified my perspective of global agricultural opportunities” Brandon Hebor

FA R MFOR UM.CA / FA LL 2018

7

COVER STORY friendships that are sure to stand the test of time. “I still talk to everybody in that group everyday,” she says.

The global perspective was perhaps the biggest highlight for Hayward, who heard from voices beyond North America and learned about life and issues in other countries. “I went to the conference, met so many incredible people and found I was able to connect everything I like into one thing,” she says, adding that the experience was empowering. “My whole life has kind of shifted, it’s been pretty awesome.”

The upcoming 2019 Summit will see some changes to its format. Delegates will now work on individual projects rather than be put into teams. This is in response to feedback from the 2017

Summit, which showed that, once team members returned to their own countries, project implementation became a lot more challenging. Hebor believes that the updated format will foster the development of new, fresh ideas and greater entrepreneurship.

Will you be one of the 100 delegates to go to the 2019 Summit and help change the world? You better be, says Hayward.

“If you have any interest in food security or agricultural production in any capacity this is the place to go to meet all the people you’ve ever wanted to meet. Take the time to apply because you never know what’s going to happen. If you have that spark, they’ll be able to tell on the application.” FF

“My whole life has kind of shifted, it's been pretty awesome” Cassandra Hayward

Apply now to become a delegate at the 2019 Youth Ag-Summit!

Only 100 delegates from around the world will be selected to attend the Youth Ag-Summit in Brasília, Brazil from November 4 to 6, 2019. Competition will be tough and the issues are real, so delegates will be selected based on their interest in food and agriculture, and on their proven ability to “AgVocate.”

If you have good communication skills, a start-up mindset, can demonstrate the “AgVocacy” work you’re already doing, and have a fantastic project idea on how to feed a hungry planet that you’re dying to develop — the 2019 Youth Ag-Summit is for you!

Find the application form online at youthagsummit.com.

Prepare a three-minute video describing your original project idea. This is your pitch!

Fill out the application form, where you will be asked questions about your education and experience, and submit it online, along with your video.

For more information and to see videos from previous Summits, visit or follow: Web: youthagsummit.com Facebook: YouthAgSummit Twitter: @YouthAgSummit and @Bayer4CropsCA Instagram: @YouthAgSummit and @Bayer4CropsCA YouTube: Youth Ag Summit Delegates will be notified in Spring 2019 via email if they have been selected. Good luck!

APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY JANUARY 10, 2019 AT 11:59 PM GMT.

8

FA R M FO R U M .C A / FALL 2 018

@Bayer4CropsCA | #AskBayerCrop cropscience.bayer.ca | 1 888-283-6847 | Always read and follow label directions. Hot PotatoesÂŽ is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group. Bayer CropScience Inc. is a member of CropLife Canada.

business

BRAD WALL talks agriculture and energy

By Gerald Pilger

T

his summer, Farm Forum contributor, Gerald Pilger, had the opportunity to sit down with former Saskatchewan premier, Brad Wall, and talk with him about society’s increasing criticism of the energy and agriculture sectors in Canada. Wall is currently an advisor on energy and agri-food business in the Calgary office of Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP. FF: Both energy and agri-food sectors are under increasing public scrutiny. Is there a connection to be made here?

BW: I think what energy has faced, especially in the oil sands, is more acute in terms of opposition than conventional oil or modern agriculture. The cautionary tale of the oil sands could help motivate all of the stakeholders in agriculture, from the large organizations to distribution networks and especially to farmers. I have hope that we can be successful in terms of not just defending, but promoting modern agriculture for the huge platform of economic opportunity that it is in this country.

With respect to the oil sands, opponents were able to brand it in a negative way — “tar sands” and “dirty oil” are good examples. We’ve got to be careful in agriculture to avoid that and maybe to try to change some things. “Genetically modified organism” is not the right name and words matter. It’s plant science! It’s the evolution of plant science that has helped feed the world since crop science began in earnest over the last 10 decades.

We’ve got to be on our toes. We have to be ready to react to those who perhaps have a misunderstanding of, or misinformation about, modern agriculture and its relationship to the environment. But we also have to be able to tell our story in a positive way.

FF: In a 2016 speech to the Explorers and Producers Association of Canada, you stated the energy sector was losing the

10

FA R M FO R U M .C A / FALL 2018

“Everyone in agriculture has to remember the big picture, which is that we are all interested in global food security and are trying to maximize the benefit for our own quality of life while doing things as sustainably as possible” Brad Wall

PHOTOS: getty images

PR battle to environmentalists. Has the oil industry made mistakes and, if so, what can agriculture learn from those mistakes?

BW: Well I think it has, but we shouldn’t be too hard on them because even governments, including mine, that understand how important the oil industry is to their budgets and to the quality of life of their citizens could have been a bit more proactive.

But one thing agriculture can learn from this is about branding. We need to tell our story about environmental efficacy, which is an advantage of modern agriculture, especially when it comes to climate change. There is a great story to tell here.

Here’s why I have a bit of hope. This summer, we saw Canadians very much focused on the Kinder Morgan pipeline.

And the more they found out about it, the more popular support for the pipeline grew. BC wide, it got 53 per cent support.

That should give us great hope to tell our story in agriculture. If we can appeal to the pragmatism of Canadians, the pride of Canadians, and get the facts out, we should be very hopeful that we can avoid some of the challenges that oil has faced.

FF: Agriculture is a diverse industry with differing opinions and voices, which can sometimes be at odds with each other — conventional and organic production, for example. How does agriculture develop a common message and a single voice?

BW: Everyone in agriculture has to remember the big picture, which is that we are all interested in global food security and are trying to maximize the benefit for our own quality of life while doing things as sustainably as possible.

That’s the big story to focus on.

That doesn’t mean we can’t have disagreements about which crops are better and which method of production might be better. That’s fine if we

understand that those are like family discussions and families need to stick together when they are challenged.

There is a lot that unites us. The quality of life afforded by agriculture in rural Saskatchewan and rural Canada is different from anything else. Raising your family out on the farm like my nephew does, or maybe you’re a smaller organic farmer — the quality of life is the same. We want that option for families, so that should unite us.

FF: Energy and manufacturing sectors have received a lot of government support recently. Should agriculture similarly be seeking public support for losses arising from transportation bottlenecks, trade barriers, regulatory delays, pesticide bans, and a host of other issues over which the industry has little or no control?

BW: It’s not unreasonable if the precedent has been set in these other sectors, as it has. It has also been set in the case of the European trade deal.

The Harper government committed to compensation for producers in supply management sectors. So if that’s true in terms of dislocation caused by a trade agreement in that particular agricultural sector, or these other examples you highlighted, I think it would warrant the government looking at these issues.

Especially on the transportation side — without pipelines, we are going to have more and more oil on rail, which displaces not just grain but potash and everything else. The federal government is going have to figure out how it is going to treat producers who are really messed up by that in terms of price. For the first time in what — 35, 40 years — we have lost Japan as a customer because we are not reliable when it comes to delivering our grain. Governments better be prepared to stand with farmers if it is government, either inadvertently or on purpose, that has caused these troubles. »

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 201 8

11

business

FF: Over the years there has been a marked shift in the way Canadian agriculture has marketed itself — from the breadbasket of the world to the high-quality producer to the low-cost competitive supplier. Do we need to change our brand again?

BW: Well, what I am most worried about, and I did a lot of trade missions in Asia, is our brand as a reliable supplier.

That would be the one I would focus on.

I think that’s why we lost Japan. It wasn’t a quality concern. It wasn’t a price concern.

We just weren’t reliable.

FF: You have publicly stated that Canada needs to do its part in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, and a lot of money and work has been invested in things like carbon capture and storage (CCS), carbon levies and cap and trade systems. Yet in most places agriculture is not rewarded for sequestration of carbon with practices like zero tillage. Should these carbon-reducing practices be rewarded and, if so, how?

BW: Absolutely! Have you helped achieve 12

FA R M FO R U M .C A / FALL 2018

the national targets? Well if we start counting all the investments like CCS and what agriculture does, you can make an economic and a measurable case that farmers help. That ensures we can avoid pricing carbon for our trade-exposed industries, like agriculture, and that is a benefit for farmers.

FF: Any final thoughts about the similar challenges to energy and agriculture in Canada?

BW: We are always striving to be better as an industry. Governments need to be sure, both in energy and agriculture, that there is the appropriate balance in regulation so we are as sustainable and responsible as we can be in our practices.

My wrap up point is: give me another country in the world that is as blessed as we are with these resources and this potential, and which makes as much a priority of environmental matters as Canada. There just isn’t one! Yet we are the first ones to be critical of ourselves.

—This interview has been edited and condensed.

“Governments need to be sure, both in energy and agriculture, that there is the appropriate balance in regulation so we are as sustainable and responsible as we can be in our practices” Brad Wall

production

In uncertain times, stick to the basics To get you through these trying times of trade wars and tariffs, stick to the fundamentals of crop planning and marketing | By Clare Stanfield

PHOTO: getty images/ 4loops

A

s harvest wraps up and you sit down to plan next year’s crop, you could be forgiven if thoughts of trade wars and train cars dance in your head.

To wit: In September, the U.S. made good on its threat and imposed tariffs on US$200 billion of Chinese imports. China countered with tariffs on US$60 billion of American products. What’s next? Who knows? How will the new USMCA play out? How will ongoing pipeline issues affect rail capacity for grain?

Bruce Burnett knows that trade and transport issues are the loud kids in the room, but he urges western Canadian farmers to not get too distracted by them.

The director of markets and weather information at Glacier FarmMedia, Burnett says the fundamentals of crop marketing

and planning are what will keep prairie operations ticking along in this time of upheaval.

Global grain stocks and weather issues are still the dominant factors to consider.

“Statistics Canada yield assessments at the end of July came in below market expectations for wheat, canola and durum,” explains Burnett.

Keep in mind those assessments were made before harvest began, so are likely to go up as harvest is completed, but overall yield won’t be great this year. “It’s a tale of two types of production scenarios on the prairies,” he says. “The northern growing areas did better than the southern areas because of drought conditions in the south.

Overall, in Canada, yields will be close to average.” »

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 201 8

13

PHOTO: getty images/David Johnson

production

In fact, Burnett says, global wheat production is down significantly to around 733 million tonnes from 758 million tonnes last year. Most of that is weather related. “There were smaller yields in Russia,” he says. “The EU had drought this year, as did eastern Australia, and the U.S. southern plains were also dry.”

He thinks wheat prices should go up as this year’s crop is consumed, which should have a positive affect on demand for Canadian wheat. And with stocks lower than they have been for a while, demand for seed is going to be fairly robust come spring, which is something farmers should be thinking about as they make plans for next year.

Smaller trade disputes are also having some impact on stocks and prices. Italy’s phytosanitary barrier has put a stop to Canadian durum exports to what was one of our largest customers. India’s tariffs on Canadian pulses are putting a dent in prices but not stocks. “Pea stocks have doubled and lentils nearly tripled, despite the fact we reduced the growing area and had poor yields this year,” he says.

While North African markets for Canadian durum and lentils are growing, Burnett doesn’t see the prices rising any time soon, even though Canada remains the world’s largest exporter of these two commodities.

On the oilseed front, “The U.S. is 14

FA R M FO R U M .C A / FALL 2018

expected to produce a massive soybean crop, which is going to overshadow the oilseeds situation just now,” says Burnett.

While he thinks the trade issues will affect Canadian soybeans to a degree, the trade war is supportive of canola prices.

Otherwise, he says, the U.S. trade war with China shouldn’t particularly impact other western grain and oilseed markets.

It is an interesting thing to watch, says Burnett. U.S. futures have dropped soybeans by over $2 per bushel, and the country is aggressively marketing those soybeans to all other markets. Brazil, in the meantime, is reserving its soybean production for China.

It’s a lot to think about, to be sure, but keep your eye on what counts as you plan ahead. “Just try to make sure you have some diversity in your market, particularly with canola,” says Burnett.

“If you have access to local crushers, they tend to be very consistent in terms of delivery requirements. Or, if you have direct access to mills for wheat in Southern Alberta and around Saskatoon, that’s something to look at.

“Monitor trade situations, sure, but don’t get too caught up in them,” adds Burnett. “Look at your fundamentals: stick to rotations, look at levels of debt, plan purchases.” He says the markets are too negative overall to be making decisions on what you think might happen with trade deals and issues. FF

“Monitor trade situations, sure, but don’t get too caught up in them. Look at your fundamentals: stick to rotations, look at levels of debt, plan purchases” Bruce Burnett Director of Markets and Weather, Glacier FarmMedia

FARM LIFE

Make time to talk about mental health

By Joy Gregory

T

PHOTO: getty images/ Wavebreakmedia

he dinner table is a great place to talk about family matters — from cell phone rules to farm chores, the risks of driving under the influence and reminders about on-farm safety.

Kellie Garrett says it’s time farm families expanded that list of dinner-table topics to include mental health.

A former senior executive with Farm Credit Canada, Garrett recently joined the Mental Health Commission of Canada’s (MHCC) board of directors. “Mental illness has affected four generations of my family that I know of,” she says. “It is something that a lot of people feel leery about discussing until they, or a friend or family member, are impacted.

“My own mother had severe depression and was afraid to get help because of witnessing the stigma her own mother experienced,” says Garrett. “When I was diagnosed, I didn’t even tell my sister. I had two children and an executive-level job, but I was so afraid of being judged as crazy or incompetent that I stayed silent.”

These days, Garrett routinely works awareness of mental illness into her work as an executive coach and speaker. Her primary goal is to help people understand that mental illness is a condition, not a moral failure and the sooner people get help, the healthier they’ll be.

Setting the table Fiona Haynes is with the MHCC’s office in Calgary and she likes the idea of making time to talk about mental health with our families. Destigmatizing the topic makes it easier for people to seek help and avoid spiralling deeper into illness. Talking about mental health also helps people deliberately strategize about how they can reach out to family, friends and colleagues who need assistance.

Haynes recommends families start their discussion with a definition of what mental health actually means. “It’s normal to be sad, nervous or anxious from time to time,” she says. “A ‘mental health problem’ would be a state of mind that is distressing or concerning for the individual and lasts at least two weeks. It’s the persistence of the

“A ‘mental health problem’ would be a state of mind that is distressing or concerning for the individual and lasts at least two weeks” Fiona Haynes Mental Health Commission of Canada

feeling that indicates that something else might be happening.”

Certain behaviour might also signal a problem. People experiencing mental illness might stop participating in regular activities, change their eating and sleeping habits or exhibit uncharacteristic fatigue, energy, anger, sadness, risk-taking or paranoia. “The key is ‘what’s different?’” says Haynes.

We should talk Talking about mental health — or asking about a potential mental health problem — will not cause mental illness, emphasizes Haynes. »

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 201 8

15

FARM LIFE Ignoring concerns could, however, exacerbate a problem by contributing to the individual’s sense of isolation.

Pick an informal opportunity, like a car ride or during chores, to talk about concerning behaviour. “With young people in particular, not having to be face-to-face can help them feel more relaxed, making them more likely to speak,” says Haynes.

“Also, choose a time when you’re feeling relatively calm and use statements like, ‘I’ve noticed’, ‘I’m worried’, ‘Can you tell me what’s happening’ or ‘I’m not sure what’s happening, but I care and I want to help.’”

Even in situations where a person might be suicidal, talking will not trigger selfharm. Asking someone a direct question, like “Do you think about hurting yourself?” lets that person know you are prepared to hear their response. Asking questions and offering support, says Haynes, tells them they are loved and needed.

If an intention for self-harm is expressed or suspected, it’s important to get professional help and review the environment to ensure the person doesn’t have easy access to things that could hurt

them, like guns, drugs or chemicals. Here, the goal is to make self-harm more difficult.

“Most people don’t want to die, but they can’t see a way to live in that moment,” says Haynes. “Any time we can buy is critical.”

Language matters Haynes cautions against using confrontational language — “Why are you acting like this?” or “Why are you so moody?” — or blaming. “Having a mental health problem is a difference, not a wrong,” she says. “By asking ‘What’s wrong with you?’ we are inadvertently blaming the person for feeling the way they do.

‘What’s happened?’ is a far better question; it acknowledges a problem and opens an opportunity to talk.” Haynes recommends statements like: “I’m listening” or “I’m worried about you.”

Do not express opinions about prescribed medication, adds Garrett. “One of the reasons people go on and off prescribed medications for issues like depression or anxiety is that others may express surprise that they need it and may encourage them to stop taking medication,” she says.

“Sadly, many of us already feel that taking medication means that we are weak. You wouldn’t encourage someone to stop medical treatment for a physical ailment.

Don’t do it with a mental illness either.”

Garrett has also learned that mental health is unique to the individual. Some people are predisposed to mental illness while others are triggered by trauma.

“And there are others who by their own admission lead a relatively tranquil life without any major negative experiences, who might experience horrible depression without trauma,” says Garrett.

Get help, offer help The need to seek help is underlined by the ripple effect of mental illness, says Haynes.

“Studies show when a child is depressed, parents are more likely to be depressed.”

This can be compounded by worry and the financial and time costs of therapy. “If you are aware of a family in need, don’t wait for them to ask for help. Reach out and talk about mental health like you were checking in on how that broken shoulder is coming on.” FF

Mental health resources In non-crisis situations, family doctors and health clinics can be helpful sources of mental health support. You can also visit: Websites: Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) www.mentalhealthcommission.ca MHCC Mental Health First Aid www.mhfa.ca The Do More Agriculture Foundation www.domore.ag Workplace education: The MHCC offers one- to five-day courses on mental health in the workplace with programs designed for managers and staff.

Find out more at: www.theworkingmind.ca/working-mind

Crisis Services Canada (crisis and distress centres in Canada) www.crisisservicescanada.ca Or call 211 for information about community and social service support in your area.

16

FA R M FO R U M .C A / FALL 2018

PHOTO: getty images/ zahar2000

Crisis lines: Canada Suicide Prevention Service 24/7 crisis line: 1-833-456-4566

Trilex it any way you want.

Trilex EverGol. The fully customizable seed treatment for pulses.

Exceptional flexibility. Exceptional disease protection. Whatever your needs, applicators and growers like you can reap the rewards of its concentrated formulation to adjust water volumes and optimize coverage. And that’s just the start.

You get superior protection against rhizoctonia, ascochyta, botrytis, fusarium spp. and pythium.

Plus the ability to protect against insects including pea leaf weevils and wireworms when tank-mixed with Stress Shield® or when using Trilex® EverGol® SHIELD. This year, choose a pulse seed treatment that puts more control in your hands.

Choose Trilex EverGol. Learn more at cropscience.bayer.ca/TrilexEverGol

cropscience.bayer.ca

|

1 888-283-6847

|

@Bayer4CropsCA

|

#AskBayerCrop

Always read and follow label directions. EverGol®, SeedGrowth™, Stress Shield® and Trilex® are trademarks of the Bayer Group.

Bayer CropScience Inc. is a member of CropLife Canada.

PRODUCTON

18

FA R M FO R U M .C A / FALL 2018

Field-scale trials help fine-tune farming practices

By Jennifer Barber

J

ordan and Jennifer Lindgren credit their success, in large part, to their commitment to learning — whether that’s trialling new products and technologies or hosting education-based programs on their land. They know that in order to make the most of every acre they farm, they have to know what does and doesn’t work.

For the past three years, the Lindgrens have partnered with Prairie Soil Services as part of its Field of Dreams program — large scale field trials that strive to maximize productivity, yield and profitability.

The couple set aside two 80-acre plots — one for grains, one for oilseeds — to determine how they can get the highest yield possible using new genetics, application technology and fertilizer rates. With a quarter section of their farm devoted to field-scale trials, they have measurable results that can impact their entire operation. »

Jennifer and Jordan Lindgren, 2018 Outstanding Young Farmers’ Program award winners for the Saskatchewan region, are pictured here with their children.

From L to R: Alexis, Bristol, Jaxon and Westin.

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 201 8

19

PRODUCTON

In partnership with Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan, the Lindgrens hosted Grade 3 and Grade 4 students on their farm this past summer as part of their Farm Food Program. Jennifer is pictured here welcoming students.

“There is a ton of material you can read about different products, equipment or ideas — there are so many different things you can try,” says Jordan.

“But there is nothing like first-hand experience to see how things will work on your own farm, with your own conditions. We’re always trying to figure out what works best and this program lets us try a bit of everything.”

The Lindgrens are the 2018 Saskatchewan region winners of the Outstanding Your Farmers’ Program award. The Norquay, SK area couple own and operate an 11,500-acre, 100-year-old grain and oilseeds farm that rotates primarily between wheat and canola. They also do some custom farming to help make the most of their equipment and resources.

Jordan says they apply what they’ve learned to the rest of their farm in subsequent seasons. For example, following several years trialling pod shatter canola varieties, they’ve sold their swather and made the switch to straight cutting. They then took the savings from the sale of the swather and bought another sprayer to maximize crop protection applications.

“We also realized that top dressing nitrogen had 20

FA R M FO R U M .CA / FALL 2018

a big impact on our wheat,” says Jordan. “We want to grow our yield and our protein to make the most profit out of every acre. There is more to make on wheat than some might think, if you work to get the most out of every plant.”

On the flip side, they have tried varieties that didn’t perform on their land based on their particular growing conditions and farming practices. They have also pushed the limits on how narrow they can space their rows before the equipment isn’t able to manage the logistics. All these trials have given them a relatively risk-free way to fine-tune their farming practices.

“You need to find your ‘tipping point,’” says Jordan.

“You can throw everything at your crop but if you are spending a dollar to make a quarter you have gone over that point. We are always looking to expand our operation but we are also working to get the best return on each and every acre we plant.”

Family first The Lindgrens took the farm over when Jordan’s dad and uncle retired. Jordan’s parents still live on the

Bristol, just like all the Lindgren kids, learns about farm safety and how the farm is run by being out in the field. At seeding time and harvest, Jordan pulls his dad (pictured here) and uncle out of retirement to help.

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 201 8

21

PRODUCTON

farm. And while the farm has two full-time employees, it’s all hands on deck at seeding and harvest when they hire seasonal workers and bring Jordan’s dad and uncle out of retirement.

“Our employees are part of our farm family,” says Jennifer. “We make sure that everyone knows they play an important role in how we run our farm. Even the kids need to know that they have a role to play, and they learn a lot about what we do just by being out in the field.”

Every decision that the Lindgrens make keeps their family and the future of their operation in mind. They are parents to four children — Jaxon, Alexis, Westin and Bristol. Everyone in the family plays a role and by keeping their children connected to the farm the Lindgrens hope to maintain their children’s interest in the business going forward.

“All of our kids say they want to be farmers, but they are still young,” says Jennifer. “Our family motto is to work hard and play hard. We make sure to take time to distance ourselves from the farm and shut off. We volunteer in the community and we recently bought a cabin that is completely off the grid. You never really get away from the farm, but we do want our kids to learn about balance.”

22

FA R M FO R U M .C A / FALL 2018

Paying it forward The Lindgrens have also made education a big part of how they run their farm. They partner with Prairie Soil Services to run the Field of Dreams program, they work closely with their agronomist to put together trials, and host two tours a year that include local farmers, company representatives, agronomists and equipment manufacturers.

“These farm tours give everyone the opportunity to showcase what they have to offer,” says Jordan. “We also have a trade show and include guest speakers to talk on current topics in the industry. It’s essentially an opportunity for our peer group to get together, network and generate new ideas.”

This year the Lindgrens partnered with Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan, to host groups of Grade 3 and Grade 4 students on their farm as part of their Farm Food program. Jennifer says that it is important for all kids — even rural kids — to learn more about where their food comes from.

“Kids read so much online and get so much misinformation, sometimes it is surprising how much they don’t know about farming and food,” says Jennifer.

“We want to help educate that generation with real information and to show them not to be scared about

what they eat. We also talk about farm safety as even urban kids will often use lawnmowers, and the safety message is the same.”

The Lindgrens hosted a spring Farm Food Day and plan to close out the season with a harvest event. In the spring they had 150 kids tour their operation, and found there were countless volunteers willing to help out.

When they look ahead, their primary focus is on leaving the farm in better shape than when they got it.

“We want to be successful, but there are a lot of factors that go into that success,” says Jennifer. “We want to use the land, but not abuse it. We have to be environmental stewards if we want to keep the land producing for our kids into the future.”

Jordan says that they will continue to try promising technology first-hand to learn what works best for them.

“We are constantly growing, sometimes increasing the size of our farm if the opportunity arises, and sometimes just with better genetics and production. I don’t know if there is a limit to what we can grow on our current acres — but we’re going to keep trying to reach it.” FF

Would you like to travel to Brazil to represent Canada as a young champion of food security and sustainable agriculture? Can you plant a path to ending world hunger?

The Youth AgVocate Summit brings together 100 young leaders from around the world to create and implement concrete solutions to feeding a hungry planet.

If you are aged 18 to 25, apply to represent Canada at the fourth Youth AgVocate Summit taking place in Brazil from November 4-6, 2019! You'll meet like-minded young visionaries and gain the skills needed to fulfill your potential.

Applications open in the fall of 2018. Register your interest now at www.newsletter.youthagsummit.com For more information, follow @YouthAgSummit

�Youth Ag \Jt/Summit

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 2018

23

technology

New tech helps prevent surface water contamination Bayer’s Phytobac system is a self-contained, closed system that captures wastewater and degrades pesticide residue through a biobed substrate of straw and soil | By Jennifer Barber

I

24

FA R M FO R U M .CA / FALL 2018

Wastewater from a buffer tank drips evenly over a biobed substrate of soil and straw.

PHOTOS: bayer cropscience

n recent years, the protection of water resources has become an increasingly important issue around the globe. Of particular concern for farmers is potential contamination of surface water from crop protection products, especially when cleaning out the spray tank. Bayer’s new Phytobac system offers a solution.

“Bayer developed this system in Europe, where dense population and small farms situated close to waterways made concerns over surface water contamination an issue that needed to be addressed,” says Lee Huber, residue lead, environmental affairs with Bayer.

“We worked with local growers and Beutech, our manufacturing partner in the Netherlands, to develop the Phytobac system, which helps address the needs of the local population,” says Huber.

“Although the Phytobac system was initially developed for smaller farms, it is fully adaptable to any size of farm.”

It’s common practice for growers to clean out their spray tanks and containers in their yards. If not addressed properly, the wastewater from cleaning the sprayer has the potential to runoff into ditches or other bodies of water leaving pesticide residue behind.

Some growers already filter the wastewater through beds of straw and soil (a biobed) in order to replicate natural microbial breakdown in the field. However, in these makeshift systems, the amount of water is never controlled, meaning the biobed could easily become oversaturated or too dry and the breakdown of pesticide residue isn’t guaranteed, explains Huber.

In the Phytobac system, wastewater is stored in a buffer tank and then dripped evenly over a biobed substrate of soil and straw. Irrigation timing is controlled and activated by soil moisture probes, allowing for optimal soil conditions for degradation of the residue. A roof above the biobed prevents rainwater from entering the system.

The straw in the Phytobac is added at least once, usually at the beginning of each year, and has to be turned at regular intervals. The straw maintains optimal levels for microbial degradation, facilitates the growth of microbial strains and works as an energy source for microorganisms. All the fungi and bacteria are naturally occurring with no other foreign organisms added to the system. These micro-organisms work to break down the pesticide residue that enters the system.

The first Phytobac in Canada was set up in 2015 at Bayer’s research farm just outside of Rosthern, SK. A second Phytobac was established at Ennotville, ON, and there are plans to develop a third system on the Canadian prairies in the near future. So far, the response to the Phytobac system has been very positive, says Huber. 

6 components of the Phytobac system 1. T he washing plate collects the rinse water from spray equipment and drains it into a contained buffer tank.

2. The holding tank holds water until water sensors indicate the system is ready to receive more moisture.

3. A control unit determines soil moisture and the amount of water to apply through drip irritation.

4. A drip irrigation setup applies wastewater to the Phytobac system.

5. A biobed substrate of soil and straw degrades the pesticide residue.

6. A two-way switch lets operators send clean water to the holding tank or rinse water to the buffer tank.

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 2018

25

technology

The roof over the biobed prevents rainwater from entering the system.

Bayer will continue to operate these Phytobac systems and monitor their performance in the Canadian climate.

“Initially we wanted to see if this system could withstand a harsh Canadian winter,” says Huber.

“We knew it would be turned off over the winter months, but we wanted to make sure it would continue to work in the spring. We pull out the controls in the fall and install it in the spring and it has performed very well year-over-year.”

The Phytobac system has become popular in Europe, with more than 3,000 units currently installed on farms. Several European governments have offered subsidies to growers in order to encourage them to set up this system on their farms, as it’s proven to be an effective wastewater management tool.

“There are many benefits for the environment and farmer,” says Huber. “This system helps degrade spray tank residue with naturally occurring microbial species reducing contamination of surface and/or ground waters. It demonstrates Bayer’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and social responsibilities, and is a representation of modern agriculture moving forward in a sustainable way.” FF 26

FA R M FO R U M .CA / FALL 2018

“This system helps degrade spray tank residue with naturally occurring microbial species, reducing contamination of surface and/or ground waters” Lee Huber residue lead, environmental affaiRs bayer

production

Outreach program connects canola farmers to consumers

Photo: Josh Tenn-Yuk

By Dianne Finstad

At a recent Canola Connect (#canolaconnect) workshop, participants learned about canola — from its health benefits to how it’s crushed.

F

or canola growers, customer service is about more than just delivering a clean shipment of high-quality seed to buyers. It’s also about reaching out to the ultimate end user — the canola oil consumer.

These days that’s no simple task when you have a wide experience gap between consumers and food producers. That’s why farmers have invested in Canola Eat Well, a consumer outreach website — CanolaEatWell.com — developed by western Canadian canola growers.

“We are about building bridges, building communities and connecting farmers and key leaders in areas of expertise like chefs, dieticians and health professionals,” says Ellen Pruden, Canola Eat Well director.

The program is a collaboration between Alberta Canola, SaskCanola, and Manitoba Canola Growers.

It’s also a unique team approach that brings together experts from a variety of disciplines in a coordinated effort designed to inspire people in their kitchens while connecting them to the farm. That team is comprised of Pruden, who has a background in education and Jennifer Dyck, a professional home economist, both based in Manitoba; Tanya Pidsadowski, from Alberta, a dietitian with a farm background; and Lynn Weaver, an Ontario-based dietitian.

Building those connections between the field and the kitchen across the entire country can be a challenge when the players are speaking different languages, says Pruden. “We are translators,” she says. “We take farmer talk and translate it to consumers, and then we take what consumers are asking for and translate that back to farmers. When you can bring »

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 2018

27

people together and create that opportunity where you can have conversations, that’s where true learning and growth takes place.”

For many Canadian consumers, its only encounter with a producer may be at a farmer’s market, but that’s a whole different type of farming. Canola Eat Well’s work involves sparking curiosity and empowering consumers to ask the questions they’re really interested in about what producers really do on the farm. And it starts with finding common ground or similar goals.

“It’s all about moving conversations forward … what are issues farmers are facing and how can technology help them?” says Pruden. “It’s all about telling their story,” she explains. “When you tell a story, you’re able to engage and you have this connection to that person, and those are the moments they take back and then share with their larger community, which then is shared even further out.”

Pruden’s experience has shown farmers are engaging storytellers. The team likes 28

FA R M FO R U M .C A / FALL 2018

to involve an actual farmer in any of its programming, especially into Ontario, a key canola oil market for growers. Farmers like Jeannette Andrashewski, who really shines when sharing what it means to be a farmer, and regularly engages on social media with Ontario consumers to talk about her farm life. Pruden sees such ongoing dialogue as a key to building community.

But Canola Eat Well doesn’t only bring farmers to the city. One of its most successful initiatives is called Canola Connect Harvest Camp. September 2018 marked the seventh year for the camp.

Each year, 15 participants from across the country with diverse backgrounds, including chefs, bloggers, health professionals, educators, even scientists are invited to Manitoba to participate in the camp.

This group is taken to a farm where they first learn about the soil, its importance, and about farmers’ relationship with the land. They also visit a cattle ranch and a bison operation. There’s a dinner in the

field, a chance to see how farming and equipment has changed over the last 20 years and the impact technology has made on efficiency.

“It’s incredible how the farmers will break during harvest for us,” says Pruden. “We visit several different farmers, all members of a canola organization. Everyone gets a combine ride and one-on-one time with a farmer. It’s an experience they never forget.”

And those experiences inspire lots of online sharing, especially by food bloggers. From sneakymommies.com to thelemonapron.com, Harvest Camp alumni share their personal experiences about this special camp.

In fact, the Harvest Camp has proven to be life changing. Pruden cites the example of Erin MacGregor, one of the first campers, who was so impressed that she decided to make it her mission to share what farmers do for Canadians. She’s done so on her website howtoeat.ca, with articles like: Four BIG myths about food and farming: DEBUNKED. Another camper, home economist

PHOTOS: getty images/ Photawa

production

Photo: Josh Tenn-Yuk

Mairlyn Smith, became so inspired by her experience, it sparked a project encouraging consumers to use Canadian food ingredients through a cookbook called Home Grown: Celebrating the Canadian Foods We Grow, Raise and Produce.

Pruden says all these people have been truly inspired by the farmers they’ve met through Harvest Camp. Each farmer demonstrates such passion for the land, their work and their lifestyle.

“That’s what farmers don’t realize — the amount of passion they have,” says Pruden.

“They have ‘it.’ After visiting farms, there’s something, the je ne sais quoi of these humble, special people. The campers walk away with a feeling that can never be replaced. I would bottle it if I could,” she laughs.

Building community is a two-way street.

Pruden admits she was fearful asking farmers to take a harvest break for the first camp, but now sees how much the farmers enjoy sharing what they do with people who are genuinely interested.

CanolaEatWell.com is so much more than a place to find great recipes. The site talks about the health benefits of canola oil and how to use it in combination with fresh ingredients to create healthy, tasty food.

Pruden thinks it’s been a shift for farmers to realize the importance of building relationships with canola oil users. And she believes it’s become vital for their business.

Providing a factual perspective, helping shoppers feel good about choosing to use canola oil, and putting a face to farmers is how Canola Eat Well shines brightly as a valuable tool for growers. FF

CanolaEatWell.com is so much more than a place to find great recipes. The site talks about the health benefits of canola oil and how to use it in combination with fresh ingredients to create healthy, tasty food

Alberta canola farmer, Jeannette Andrashewski (right), shares her farm story with a group of Ontario dieticians, writers and chefs at a culinary workshop.

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 2018

29

WHAT’S NEW WITH BAYER PRODUCTS

New system tackles foxtail barley

F

or the past 20 years wheat growers have increasingly struggled with foxtail barley, but a long-awaited innovative solution from Bayer is sure to make this a problem of the past.

Thriving in all kinds of soils and conditions, even areas of high salinity, foxtail barley is one of those difficult-tocontrol weeds that can wreak havoc on a wheat harvest.

Not only does it have the ability to survive various herbicide applications, its rapid growth and prolific reproduction cycles can cause multiple flushes within the same season.

James Humphris, cereal crop manager for Bayer explains: “With its shallow root system, tillage used to be a reliable means of control, but with the movement towards zero-till over the past couple decades the foxtail barley situation has escalated significantly. The seedbank is overflowing with it.”

In fact, a recent survey of Canadian wheat growers shows that foxtail barley has become one of the most problematic and costly weeds across the Prairies with approximately 50 per cent of respondents indicating that it has become increasingly difficult to control over the last five years.

For more information, consult your local retail or Bayer representative or visit cropscience.bayer.ca/Olympus for more details.

30

FA R M FO R U M .CA / FALL 2018

*Site Source: 2017 AGDATA Survey of 1100 Canadian Wheat Growers

The end is here Untreated versus the Olympus System

Untreated

Olympus + Roundup followed by Varro

PHOTOS: getty images

It takes a system to break the cycle Finally, wheat growers have a new tool to deal with this challenging weed. Introducing the NEW Olympus System.

Simply tank-mix Olympus® with your pre-season Roundup® application and follow in-crop with your choice of Varro® or Velocity m3 herbicide for season-long control. “We’ve seen incredible results with our Olympus System trials and not just with foxtail barley”, reports Humphris, “it also provides exceptional control of wild oats, Japanese brome, downy brome and other problematic weeds including volunteer canola, even if it’s resistant to other herbicides. It also has excellent crop safety, making it a nice fit for growers who want to rotate to sensitive crops like pulses.”

WHAT’S NEW WITH BAYER PRODUCTS

Getting into the weeds, herbicide resistant ones

W  

hen properly used, herbicides continue to provide the most economical, consistent and effective method of weed control.

However, the overuse of specific groups and the misuse thereof (off label rates, incorrect application, poor rotational practices, or improper application timing to name a few) have contributed to the rampant increase of herbicide resistance across the globe.At home in Canada, the problem is not much better, and one-byone, growers are starting to lose some of their most trusted herbicide tools.

What has become clear to all stakeholders now is the need for greater education and a united front to prevent irreparable damage and ensure the future sustainability of farming.

While international groups like

Herbicide Resistance Action Committee continue to promote awareness and monitor resistance levels around the world, Canadian growers can find the information they need through programs like MixItUp.ca.

A simple call to action and a valuable tool, MixItUp.ca is a dedicated resource designed to educate growers about the development of herbicide resistance, the impact of not addressing the issue and provides them with simple and effective strategies they can implement to help protect the future sustainability of their farms.

ROTATE HERBICIDE

ROTATE CROP SUCCESS

The goal is not to scare growers away from herbicides, but rather, educate on how to use them effectively as part of an integrated weed management (IWM) program. Simply stated, it promotes a multi-faceted approach that combines the best physical, chemical and biological practices available. A well implemented IWM program will ultimately suppress weed growth, limit the return of weed seeds into the soil seed bank and prevent the further spread of herbicide resistance to other areas.

Additionally, the site houses a suite of educational videos, presentations and advice from industry-leading experts, as well as printable resource tools like the Herbicide Resistance Management Guide from Bayer. For more information or to download the guide, simply visit MixItUp.ca.

1. Mix up your crop rotations 2. Mix up your herbicide modes of action 3. Mix up your crop production practices

ROTATE TECHNOLOGY

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 201 8

31

One Bayer

I

f you work in agriculture, then you are no stranger to consolidation. Larger farms and fewer growers is a trend mirrored in the crop protection industry today.

Bayer looks to provide even greater value to Canadian growers through its recent acquisition of Monsanto. “This considerable investment not only offers our grower partners a selection of innovative cropping solutions, it adds new technological resources and further increases our industry expertise, ultimately allowing us to better serve the needs of our customers.” says Al Driver, president and CEO of Bayer CropScience Inc. in Canada.

In the interest of keeping all stakeholders well informed throughout the integration, Bayer is committed to transparency and providing timely updates as events warrant. “This is a good thing for Canadian

growers,” says Driver. “In addition to the full lineup of trusted Bayer solutions, they will also receive complete access to a broad range of new innovations related to the acquisition. We remain dedicated to the success of our growers.”

As the process of team integration begins, growers are encouraged to maintain existing relationships with both networks. “Our number one goal

is seamless transition and during this time you can expect our same high level of customer service and personal dedication to your business,” adds Driver.

Growers with questions or concerns can access additional information on the Bayer website, AdvancingTogether.com, on Twitter @Bayer4CropsCA or contact the customer service centre at 1 888-283-6847.

BayerValue/Hot Potatoes is taking you to Spain!

Participating in the BayerValue/Hot Potatoes Rewards Program could take you to Spain in 2020. Enjoy a week filled with amazing scenery, delicious food and memories that will last a lifetime. Spots are limited, and it’s open to all Eastern Canadian growers and Western Canadian horticulture growers. If you’d like to join us please contact us by October 31, 2018.

Visit Hot-Potatoes.ca for more details or call 1 888-283-6847 to reserve your spot.

32

FA R M FO R U M .C A / FALL 2018

PHOTOs: top, bayer, bottom, getty images

Join us for the 2020 BayerValue/Hot Potatoes Group Trip

WHAT’S NEW WITH BAYER PRODUCTS

Leading with expertise: Bayer SeedGrowth When you have questions, we have answers

A

s harvest draws to a close, you’re probably already thinking about planning for next season’s crop.

Where to get your seed, what seed and which seed treatments to use are among the first decisions that you’ll make and it’s likely you’ll have some questions.

The Bayer SeedGrowth™ team is here to help you with those questions. Drawing on over 100 years of seed treatment history and expertise, whatever your question, we’ll find an answer for you — whether it’s about products, equipment or just good old hands-on support.

“Our SeedGrowth team members are, or have been, farmers themselves so they know what goes into your seed treatment decision,” says David Kikkert, crop & campaign marketing manager, soybeans and pulses at Bayer. “Every farm has different challenges and good products backed by excellent support can make a big difference to your success.”

unrivalled disease and insect protection for potatoes. It provides two modes of action against Fusarium and the broadest spectrum of protection against insects.

• R axil® for cereals provides unmatched contact and systemic protection against disease, including true loose smut and Fusarium graminearum.

• Trilex® EverGol® seed treatment fungicide for pulses has three powerful active ingredients that protect seed and seedlings against key early-season diseases, plus increased activity against Rhizoctonia and ascochyta blight. It is also available with Stress Shield® seed treatment insecticide offering protection against wireworm and pea leaf weevils.

• E verGol® Energy seed treatment fungicide for soybeans offering both contact and systemic activity against a wide range of diseases leading to faster emergence, healthier plants and higher yields.

• T itan® Emesto® seed treatment fungicide and insecticide provides

“A lot can ride on making the right seed treatment choice for your crop, your field and the conditions,” says Kikkert.

“Everyone wants to see faster emergence, strong vigour and uniform growth, and the right seed treatment can help ensure that happens — not only by protecting young plants against early season pests, but also by ensuring your crop has a better chance against any unexpected stress conditions, like cool, damp soils.”

Kikkert adds that accurate product application is key to seed treatment efficacy, and the Bayer SeedGrowth team can help you find the right equipment solution should you need it.

“Our goal is to help Canadian growers maximize their seed performance and protect their seed investment,” says Kikkert.

“If you have a question, we’re ready to answer it.”

Find out more at cropscience.bayer.ca/seedgrowth or consult your local retailer or Bayer representative.

PHOTOs: thinkstock

Ensuring genetic potential Each and every seed carries the promise of strong growth and great yield. “Helping that seed thrive and reach its full genetic potential starts with a seed treatment,” says Kikkert. “It's the only way to protect seed from seed- and soil-borne disease to ensure the strongest emergence.”

Bayer SeedGrowth carries a full line of proven seed treatment products for cereals, oilseeds, pulses, soybeans, corn and potatoes to protect against early season disease and insects, including:

FARMFORUM.CA / FALL 201 8

33

As harvest progresses …

34

FA R M FO R U M .CA / FALL 2018

• V elum® Prime, an in-furrow nematicide that also offers inseason leaf disease protection • L una® Tranquility, a foliar fungicide that provides excellent leaf spot complex (early blight and brown leaf spot) protection including strains with reduced sensitivity to Group 11 and many other Group 7 fungicides. It also protects against white mould and black dot.

With harvest either in full swing or coming to an end, remember to be safe. If you have questions about any Bayer products visit cropscience.bayer.ca or contact your Bayer representative.

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

A

s you continue with harvest this fall you’ll get an opportunity to see what worked and what you might like to change for next year as you monitor your yield, field-by-field, truck-by-truck, bin-by-bin.

There’s a lot to consider, and the weather always plays a role.

Having said that, there are some things you can control. If you’re a long time user of one of these Bayer products listed, or if you tried one for the first time this year, we’re confident you’re on the right track.

• Titan® Emesto®, the number one potato seed-piece treatment in Canada, chosen by you, the potato grower • S erenade® SOIL, a biological fungicide applied in-furrow, tested and proven to give you a yield bump

The world has never seen a nematicide like this before.

VelumÂŽ Prime nematicide is making big news. No wonder. Now you can make yield-robbing nematodes a thing of the past, and expect more out of your crop.

It even offers early blight protection.

To integrate it into your potato protection program, apply it in-furrow at planting.

And give your potato yield a chance at being out of this world.

Get the yield-enhancing details at cropscience.bayer.ca/VelumPrime

cropscience.bayer.ca

|

1 888-283-6847

|

@Bayer4CropsCA

|

#AskBayerCrop

Always read and follow label directions. VelumÂŽ is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group. Bayer CropScience Inc. is a member of CropLife Canada.

THE END IS NEAR FOR FOXTAIL BARLEY

Introducing the Olympus® System, the first step in controlling foxtail barley. Coming soon to a wheat field near you.

IT TAKES A SYSTEM TO BREAK THE CYCLE cropscience.bayer.ca/Olympus

@Bayer4CropsCA

1 888-283-6847

#AskBayerCrop

Always read and follow label directions. Olympus® is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group.

Bayer CropScience Inc. is a member of CropLife Canada.

C-52-09/10-11026596-E

BSC11026596_InsideCover_Olympus_4C.indd Inside Cover

1 100%

GRACoL

11026596

4

8.125” x 8.625” 8.125” x 8.625” 7.625” x 8.125” 8.375” x 8.875”

Helvetica Neue LT Std, Gotham

Bayer BCS11026596 9-14-2018 1:32 PM

March Farm Forum Files to tmumby@farmmedia.com