2026 Ag Week 2

The Vermilion Voice | March 17, 2026

11

310-FARM - Alberta’s One-Stop Shop For Agricultural Answers Agri News

not have every answer, they specialize in Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Part- tion. connecting callers with the right people – nership (Sustainable CAP).

- guidance on rat control, wild boar Producers have enough to manage whether that means transferring you to a -help navigating agriculture grant appli- issues and invasive species. already – markets, weather, regulations, subject matter expert, providing you with cations or checking application status - farm safety resources and bestpracinput costs and the day to day realities the details and a link to a specific program, Livestock and premises tice information of running a farm or ranch. When ques- or directing you to the right department or -registering, updating or renewing a Advocacy and dispute resolution tions come up, tracking down the right industry contact. The 310-FARM team will Premises Identification (PID) account.

-access to the Farmers’ Advocate Office government contact or program infor- work to guide them toward the most appro-requirements for livestock movement for support with financial stress, land or mation should not add to their workload. priate resource, ensuring they are not left and reporting. utility disputes, and mediation options That is why the Government of Alberta without direction.

- who to contact about animal health or In an industry where time is precious, operates 310FARM, an information and 310-FARM supports key agricultural diseaserelated concerns having a single, first point of contact saves referral service designed to provide programs, including the Alberta Farm Fuel Regulations and compliance producers frustration and helps ensure farmers, ranchers, ag businesses and Benefit, Premises Identification Program - understanding permits or approvals they are accessing the programs and inforrural residents a dependable first point and the Farmers’ Advocate Office. needed for farm operations. mation they need. Whether you are sortof contact.

Resource agents can answer a wide - clarifying environmental regulations, ing out paperwork, troubleshooting a live310FARM is staffed by resource agents range of inquiries, including: manure management and water use. stock issue, or exploring funding options, who understand the agricultural landscape Programs and financial supports - clarifying rules related to inspections or 310FARM is there to help keep Alberta’s and can help callers navigate provincial -eligibility and applications for the compliance notices. agricultural sector moving forward. programs, regulatory requirements and Alberta Farm Fuel Benefit Program.

Farming operations and resources For more information, see: available supports. While the team does -funding oppor tunities under the - crop, soil, pest and irrigation informa310-FARM Submitted

Agriculture & Environment

FROM FARM TO TABLE Ag Week celebrates food and farmers!

OUR TEAM CAN HELP YOU Weed & Pest Control Ag plastics recycling Sustainable CAP Programs

Environmental stewardship Environmental Farm Plans ALUS Program

FARM STEWARDSHIP FUNDING THROUGH THE ALUS PROGRAM riparian area management rotational grazing fencing and alternative watering wildlife habitat

grass waterways and salinity shelterbelts eco-buffers pollinator habitat

Contact Chris Elder for help with funding options, project design, and application support celder@county24.com 780-853-7844

ROADSIDE SPRAYING & NO SPRAY ZONES

The County of Vermilion River will begin spraying for weeds and brush along road allowances starting in June 2026. The primary focus will be Spray Area 2 (the western third of the County), but selective spraying of noxious weeds and brush will take place throughout the County. If you prefer to manage the weeds and brush in front of your property instead of having the County spray, please complete the annual NoSpray Agreement by May 31, 2026. Agreements can be accessed at ww.vermilion- river.com or by calling the County Office at 780-846-2244.

Please be aware that the County will not spray near clearly maintained yard sites or tame shelterbelts.

RAT CONTROL

3801A – 51 Avenue, Lloydminster, AB

780-875-7671 www.lloydlaw.ca

The Rat Control Inspection Program will start in March. Pest Control Officers visit farms and rural residents within 6 miles of the SK border (Range 1). If you have a yard gate or guard dog, let us know so we can set up an appointment for inspection.

vermilion-river.com

(780) 846-2244

The Vermilion Voice | March 17, 2026

12

Sonya Lee

Vermilion Farmer’s Market Returned For The 2026 Season

goods, wooden crafts, seasonal produce, and a variety of unique handmade items created right With spring just around the corner, a beloved here in the region.

Vermilion tradition made its return. The VermilFor many visitors, the market is about more ion Farmer’s Market opened its 2026 season than simply picking up groceries or gifts. It also on Tuesday, March 10, once again bring - offers an opportunity to meet the people behind ing local vendors, handcrafted goods, and the products. Vendors are often happy to share community spirit back to Elk’s Hall. how their items are made, where their ingredients Held weekly every Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. come from, or what inspired them to begin craftto 2:00 p.m. at the Elk’s Hall, located at 5029 49 ing. These conversations add a personal connecAvenue, the market provides a warm and invit- tion that makes shopping local feel even more ing space where residents and visitors alike meaningful. can gather, browse, and support local makers.

The welcoming atmosphere inside the Elk’s Running throughout the year, it has become a Hall remains a defining feature of the Vermilion familiar and much-anticipated midweek stop Farmer’s Market. Friends pause to visit while for many in the community. browsing the tables, children carefully choose a One of the market’s greatest charms is its favourite treat, and newcomers quickly discover ever- changing selection of vendors. Each the friendly spirit that defines the event. It’s the week offers something a little different, ensur- kind of place where people naturally slow down, ing that no two visits are quite the same. Shop- enjoy the moment, and connect with neighbours. pers can find tables filled with fresh baking, The market is designed with accessibility in jars of homemade jams and preserves, locally mind. The Elk’s Hall offers a spacious layout that produced honey, handmade soaps, and hand- is easy to navigate with strollers, wheelchairs, crafted jewelry. Other vendors bring crocheted or walking aids, making it a comfortable outing for families, seniors, and visitors of all ages.

For those who value suppor ting local businesses and discovering oneof-a-kind items, the Vermilion Farmer’s Market continues to offer something special. From handmade crafts to fre s h - b ake d g o o d s an d l o c all y sourced products, the market celebrates the creativity and dedication of vendors throughout the community.

Whether you plan to visit every week or simply drop in when you can, the Vermilion Farmer’s Market offers an opportunity to enjoy good company, local talent, and the simple pleasure of shopping close to home.

Reporter

Breanne Orton chatting with a Farmers Market attendee.

Photos Sonya Lee

Investing in our Ag community for 52 years

The Vermilion Voice | March 17, 2026

13

NEW DEALER ALERT!!

Vermilion Branch 587-789-0605 www.agzone.ca

4401-42 Avenue Vermilion, AB T9X 0B3 Located south of Vermilion Vet Clinic

The Vermilion Voice | March 17, 2026

14

Sonya Lee

Local Jordyn Prior Recognized As Rising Star At Western Agriculture Conference

culture and rural communities. She holds a where she will speak with host and CEO Jackie Rae Greening was also recogBachelor of Science in Agricultural Sustain- Tracy Gardner about her 4-H experience nized with the Notable Lifetime Achiever Women from across Western Canada ability along with a degree in Agribusiness and the importance of sponsorship and Award, honouring her long-standing impact gathered in Calgary earlier this month and has built a career that blends agricul- partnerships. on agriculture and the generations she has to celebrate leadership, innovation, and ture with marketing and communications.

Other recipients of the 2026 AFSC helped inspire through her work at CFCW. community within the agricultural industry “Women in agriculture come from every Women in Ag Awards included Robyne Events like the Advancing Women in during the Advancing Women in Agriculture corner of our industry; from the lab to the Davidson, named The Innovator; Laura Agriculture West Conference continue West Conference. classroom to the field; and every one of Brown, The Operator; Michelle Rigney, The to highlight the leadership, dedication, Held March 8 to 10 at the Hyatt Regency those roles matters. If I can leave any Ignitor; Dr. Brenda Rolston, The Leader; and innovation of women working across Calgary, the annual event brings together legacy behind, I hope it’s a longer table Beth Cash, The Promoter; Alexandra Alberta’s agricultural industry while fosterwomen working across all areas of agricul- where more women feel seen, valued, and Brochu, The Community Builder; and Lisa ing connections and opportunities for future ture to connect, learn, and recognize those empowered to lead authentically and with- Kitt, The Maverick. leaders. helping shape the future of the industry in out hesitation,” said Prior.

Alberta.

“I was raised to believe that no challenge The conference welcomes women who was too big and no opportunity was off-limits share a passion for agriculture and food — and that foundation of grit, community, systems. Attendees include university and mentorship is what shaped me. Being and college students studying agriculture, recognized alongside so many remarkproducers, ranchers, agribusiness profes- able women remind me that we rise by liftsionals, entrepreneurs, and representatives ing others, and that meaningful change in from grower associations. agriculture happens when we put people Through keynote presentations, work- and relationships first. I am deeply grateshops, and networking sessions, partici- ful for this award and truly honoured to be pants explored topics such as commu- recognized among such inspiring women nication and leadership, mentoring and in agriculture.” networking, financial management and She currently works as the Ag and independence, work-life balance, and Energy Marketing Specialist for South career planning.

Country Co-op and was previously the The 2026 Women in Ag Awards were Associate Director of Brand at Cornerstone presented during The Notables, a special Co-op. reception held March 8 in Calgary. The A dedicated 4-H alumna, Prior spent 11 event was held in conjunction with the 2026 years involved in the program and continAdvancing Women in Agriculture & Food ued mentoring and volunteering afterward.

Conference (West), presented and hosted She now serves as the 4-H Alberta North

by AFSC. East Area Director, helping guide and Among those honoured this year was mentor youth involved in agriculture. local woman Jordyn Prior, who received Outside of her professional role, Prior the Rising Star Award, recognizing young runs a herd of purebred Angus cattle alongfemale leaders under 40 who show excep- side her brothers and supports other farmtional promise, passion, and a commitment ers and rural businesses through marketing to advocating for agriculture. strategy.

Prior grew up on a mixed grain and cattle Those interested in learning more about operation in northeastern Alberta, where Prior will be able to hear her story on the Jordyn Prior awarded Rising Star Award. Photo submitted she developed a strong connection to agri- 4-H Alberta podcast in the coming weeks, Reporter

Wishing Our Local Farmers And Ranchers

A SAFE, HEALTHY AND PROSPEROUS YEAR

http://www.accountingvermilionab.ca Suite 14, 5125-50th Ave. Vermilion, AB. T9X 1L9 780-853-2801

Thank You

4701-41 St., Vermilion Fax: (780) 853-6463 Ph: (780) 853-6470

to our Agriculture Community for all their HARD work!

The Vermilion Voice | March 17, 2026

Lakeland Rowing Club And Rustler Crew Row Into National Spotlight And Provincial Competition

Lorna Hamilton

15

for the indoor rowing community. in the Masters event. Collins finished The Alberta Indoor Championships Two weeks later, Lakeland College fourth in his event, while Walsh took first marked the conclusion of the varsity Members of the Lakeland Rowing Rustler Crew travelled to Blackfalds to place, adding a highlight result for the indoor rowing season for the Rustler Club and Lakeland College rowing team compete in the Alberta Indoor Rowing Lakeland Rowing Club.

Crew.

(Rustler Crew) recently took part in two Championships held on Saturday, March significant indoor rowing events, contrib- 7. Seven student-athletes represented the uting to a national achievement while also team, including two men and five women, competing at the provincial level to close competing in Senior Men’s, Senior out the varsity season.

Women’s Lightweight, and Senior Novice Seven members of the club partici- Women’s events against rowers from pated in the national Indoor Rowing Day in Calgary, Edmonton, and Central Alberta.

Canada on Saturday, February 21, collecWhile no medals were earned this year, tively rowing more than 28,000 metres. the Rustlers delivered solid performances, Their efforts helped push the nation- with a pair of fourth-place finishes and one wide challenge past its ambitious goal fifth-place result. The remaining competiof symbolically rowing across Canada, tors finished in the middle of the pack in a distance of 5,514 kilometres. In total, events that typically featured fields of 20 more than 6,100 kilometres were rowed or more rowers. by 625 participants across the country, Coaches Peter Walsh and Derek marking a successful and energetic day Collins also took to the rowing machines Lakeland College Rustlers Rowing Team competing. Photo submitted Reporter

We salute

all farmers and ranchers

23, 2026

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The Vermilion Voice | March 17, 2026

Alberta RCMP Warn The Public Of Spring Scam Season

17

Alberta RCMP

To contact the RCMP non-emergency materials being offered. Be skeptical Always remain vigilant line while in any Alberta RCMP jurisif contractors decline to provide this Secure your valuables.

The Alberta RCMP is advising that information.

Be cautious of strangers in your diction, call 310-RCMP(7267). If you with the change of season comes an S e e k e s t i m at e s f r o m r e p u t a b l e personal space or attempting to hug or wish to remain anonymous, you can increase in certain scams. RCMP are companies to compare costs. contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222touch you. already responding to reports of paving Do not agree to a contract if you feel Trust your instincts and don’t be 8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips. and distraction/gold scams. pressured or if the contractor refuses afraid to say no or yell for help if you com or by using the “ P3 Tips” app Paving scams are ver y common. to take “no” for an answer. available through the Apple App or feel uncomfortable.

Contractors claim to have leftover mateBe leery of unsolicited offers. If it Walk away fro m any sus p i c ious Google Play Store. To repor t crime rials from previous jobs and offer to pave sounds too good to be true, it probably is! person or behaviour. online, or for access to RCMP news driveways and parking lots at reduced Do not pay for ser vices upfront, If you have been the victim of or and information, download the Alberta pricing. Companies may use business before the work is done. have information regarding a scam RCMP app through Apple or Google names that suggest they are affiliated D i s t r a c t i o n /G o l d s c a m s m o s t l y in your area, call your local police or Play. with a government road maintenance occur in retail parking lots. Victim is department and typically provide false approached by a seemingly stranded addresses or contact information. After motorist. Scammer claim they need 26033AA0 contractors collect payment and disap- money for food, gas, or airfare to get pear from the area, customers discover home, and offer fake gold or jewellery the materials used are poor quality and for exchange. The scammer often cites the work is unprofessional. Victims are hardship, such as the recent death of sometimes left unable to contact the a family member, or referencing sadscammers and face expensive asphalt looking children in their vehicles in repairs or in other incidents, the contrac- order to solicit a sympathetic response tors attempt to intimidate the customer from victims. The scammers will sell into paying after the work is completed what turns out to be fake jewelry or use for poor product and services. distraction techniques to remove real Keep the following tips in mind to jewellery from a victim. avoid falling victim to a paving scam: Keep the following tips in mind to Ask for names of previous customers avoid falling victim to distraction/ and verify that they were satisfied with gold scams: the work.

Research the company through the Better Business Bureau in Alberta, t h e C o n su m er Inve st i gations Unit, your local Rural Crime Watch, or on social media.

Obtain a written quote that includes the full business name, address, p h o n e n u m b e r, G S T number, as well as provincial and municipal license numbers, if applicable.

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